DEAR BELOVED READERS,
From The Desk of the Editor-in-Chief
Welcome to the May edition of Transformational 4Real Magazine! This month is overflowing with meaning, reflection, and gratitude and we are honored to walk with you through it.
May is a month of honoring, healing, and blooming. As nature blossoms around us, so too do the opportunities to pause, reflect, and grow in faith, awareness, and love.
First and foremost, we extend a heartfelt Happy Mother’s Day to every mother, grandmother, guardian, spiritual mom, and mother figure. Your strength, sacrifice, prayers, and unconditional love are the foundation of families and faith communities everywhere. Whether you are a mom by birth, by adoption, or by calling, we celebrate you—and we pray that you feel deeply seen, appreciated, and loved
In this issue, we also shine a light on several important awareness topics that align with our mission to inform, inspire, and uplift. We recognize:
Mental Health Awareness Month – reminding us that it’s okay to not be okay and that healing is possible in Christ.
Lupus, Arthritis, and Brain Cancer Awareness – offering strength, stories, and strategies for those navigating chronic illness with grace.
National Day of Prayer – a time for unity and powerful intercession across our communities and nation.
At Transformational 4Real, we believe that transformation begins with awareness, is nurtured by truth, and is sustained by the Holy Spirit. This month’s articles, devotionals, and reflections are designed to uplift your spirit and empower you to be a vessel of love and light in someone else’s life.
Let us continue to stand in faith, advocate for others, and celebrate the beauty in every stage and season. May this May be a month of healing, honoring, and hope for you and your family.
With love and blessings,
With fierce love and unwavering faith, With gratitude and transformation in mind,
We are being resilient, intentional and coming into alignment with God’s plan for our lives in 2025.
In His Service,
Donna Royalty Ross Editor-in-Chief
INTERVIEW WITH apostle shawna naraine Lathan
T4RM: Today’s interview is deeply personal and incredibly special I have the honor of sitting down with a woman who didn’t just walk in the prophetic she saw it in me before I fully recognized it in myself. Apostle Shawna Latham, CEO of Shawna Lathan Prophetic Ministries International, is not only a powerful author, instructor, and spiritual leader, but she is also the vessel God used to confirm the prophetic gift within me and to affirm my elevation to Prophetess. Her obedience to God’s voice and boldness in ministry have impacted countless lives—including mine.
Today, we’re going to journey through her story from childhood dreams to the birthing of a global ministry and hear the heart of the woman who continues to raise, equip, and release prophetic voices into their divine assignments.”
T4RM: Can you take us back to your childhood what was young Shawna like growing up?
SNL: Young Shawna was an obedient girl. Always wanted to please her parents, and family members. She was helpful, smart, but knew her place. At church she sang in Praise and Worship. On Saturdays she would go out door to door with her Dad and the Ministers and hand out tracks and pray with the people. She and her paternal grandmother who prayed and sang all day in the kitchen were very close.
T4RM: Did you grow up in a faith-based household? How did that influence your path?
SNL: Yes I did! That definitely influenced my path. I was considered a “PK.” Not something I grew up being proud of over the years as it had a negative connotation that I tried really hard to shy away from, but the stigma couldn’t be ignored. Satan knew who we were and he worked overtime to target us.
T4RM: Were there any defining moments in your early years that pointed you toward ministry?
SNL: I was 12 years old when my Dad, Mom and I attended a Benny Hinn Pastor’s Conference in Brooklyn, NY and just as we were about to break for lunch, Pastor Benny Hinn stopped and said, “Man of God, I’ve seen you before in my Spirit God will use you near and far in Ministry, what was meant to kill you He will use as a Testimony to save many souls.” He was talking to my Dad. I was balling, crying my eyes out, as he was walking back, he said, “is that your daughter?” My Dad said, “Yes” he said, “Bring her up to me!” I don’t remember what he said from the time we started walking up, but my head was down and I was still crying.” He said to me, “What is your name?” I said, “Shawna Esther Naraine” I recall him saying with amazement in his face, “she’s bold!” Then he said to my Dad and me, “The hand of God has been decreed upon her life that the uniqueness of the anointing on her life will cause folks to be baffled. The enemy seeks to kill her, but the Army of God will protect her at all costs. Guard her anointing, she’ll be seen by Kings and Important People because of the Wisdom that’s within Her. She’s truly an Esther for Her time.” I recall him and a whole lot of Pastors praying over us. My Mom told me to write it down and every year I would transfer it from one journal to another.
When I realized who Dr Benny Hinn is, I was astonished that God would use a popular celebrity to minister to me, He said, “No, I used a willing vessel to tell you what I’ve already prepared you for…”
T4RM: Who were some of the most impactful figures or mentors in your life as a child or teen?
SNL: As a child and teen, some of the most impactful figures and mentors were the late Rev. Thomas and Mother Claricy Jones, The late Rev. Charles Maxwell, the late Veronica Whitaker, the late Ralton Joseph Naraine (Daddy), and the late Waveney Naraine (my Mom), My Uncle Patrick Naraine and Pastor Bryan Cutshall.
T4RM: When did you first feel the call to ministry, and what was your initial reaction?
SNL: I think I really felt the first call to Ministry when I was laying on my cot overseas in the Gulf War and I experienced a visitation that didn’t scare me, but allowed me to know that I was safe. This woman figured looked like she was anointing me. The next day, the scud hit the barracks about a football field away from where we were. I remember saying, “I’m here Lord whatever you want me to do I’ll do it!”
T4RM: How did your family and community respond when you began walking in your calling?
SNL: I think my Family all knew it, so there was no surprise there.
T4RM: Can you share a moment when you knew for sure that God had set you apart for this work?
SNL: Yes I can, I had just finished speaking with my god brother and writing down the prophetic word he shared with me about a school that will start out with five female students and that I should start writing the curriculum and they would come. Not weeks after I wrote up the curriculum, a Pastor and two of her members joined, my son and two of our members joined, one dropped and we had our first five. We held our classes at the Spring Lake Library and God truly blessed.
T4RM: You've worn many hats author, instructor, and now CEO. How did your journey evolve from ministry to entrepreneurship?
SNL: To God be the Glory. The only thing I can truly say is that My Father knows who He can trust with the admonition and administration of gifts. He knows that I can’t do anything without HIM, so the more HE gives, the more I’m going to depend on Him. He’s got me hooked.
T4RM: What inspired you to launch Shawna Lathan Prophetic Ministries International?
SNL: Adonai! He told me to and I did it.
T4RM: What were the biggest faith tests you faced while building SLPMI?
SNL: The biggest faith tests I’ve faced like most Leaders is the Sanballots and Tobias’ You know the ones who have an opinion, but don’t want to support? But when COVID came around, they wanted to know “how do ya?” Other minor ones were folks who are literally in the hands of the Father, so because of the spiritual NDA I can’t say more.
T4RM: How do you balance the prophetic, the pastoral, and the practical sides of your role?
SNL: Prayer is the Key, the Holy Spirit is the Manager, I’m just an obedient vessel.
T4RM: Tell us about your journey as an author what pushed you to begin writing?
SNL: Whew! My first Book, Protocol to the King’s Chamber reflects Everything of my personal relationship with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. When I really, I mean for real, gave my life over to Him and He saw I was sincere? The Holy Spirit was like, okay these are the stuff you’ve got to let go of…You’ve seen too much when you became a nurse, let go of that. You saw too much of this when you were in the Military, let go that. You experienced this when you were a child, heal and let go of that. I’ll teach you. To me it looked like veils, but in order for me to have a real relationship with God and for Him to show me growth and healing. I had to get rid of the issues in my tissues, but not without the Holy Spirit’s help.
T4RM: How do your teachings and books reflect your personal experiences with God?
SNL: My teachings and my books reflect my personal experiences because I walk them all out by being a living testimony. I experience all, no cap.
T4RM: What message do you pray stick with readers and students the most?
SNL: The message I pray that sticks with the readers and students the Most is I’m just a nobody trying to tell everybody about somebody who can save anybody, for real!
T4RM: What’s the core mission of SLPMI, and how is it being fulfilled today?
SNL: The Core Mission of SLPMI is to reach the lost, teach them to love Jesus so they can love themselves and others and reach others because of what He has done for them.
T4RM: How has the ministry impacted lives so far, and what testimonies stand out to you?
SNL: The Ministry has impacted lives so far in many countless ways. I think the one that stands out to me is a lady who called in for Prayer randomly on the Noonday Prayer frantic that her husband was not breathing and we began praying as our own lives depended upon it and as the paramedics arrived they said, “he’s breathing shallow, but he’s back!” Although we never heard from that random stranger, we heard everything and prayed so hard that it still brings tears to my eyes in thinking about it. The scripture comes to mind in Hebrews 11:2, “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.”
T4RM: Can you share a moment when you knew for sure that God had set you apart for this work?
SNL: SLPMI is unique because we understand who we are in the Body of Christ. In the Body, there are Nerves that stimulates the Brain and the Muscles to do something before things get worse. When a person feels off in their body, they go to the Emergency Room to find out what’s wrong. So, in the Body, we’re that Nerve Agent that alerts them to Get Your Heart Right,” This is how you do it. We give the information for them to go to a maintenance or a specialist, unless they see their need to be a part of one of the thousands of nerve agents in the body. We don’t compete against anyone, we’re here to help and enhance The Body of Christ. Another thing that makes us unique is that we’re an Online presence whereas those who work on Sunday can listen to us online, they can be a part of our Wednesday Noonday Prayer or our Wednesday’s Bible Study.
T4RM: As CEO, how do you lead your team spiritually and strategically?
SNL: Both. It’s necessary to lead by example. Lead Spiritually (again referring to Proverbs 3:5-6), so that they will never dehumanize you as a person or a Leader.
Strategically because a Leader must always know who is WHO in their organization. I cannot stress it enough, I cannot have someone who is going after titles when I see and know their only agenda is my position, I’d rather train a Faithful Janitor who’s been dedicated and shows up every time because I see their ethic and commitment.
T4RM: What does a typical day look like for you?
SNL; A typical day looks like prayer, my daily activities of living, having a light breakfast with devotion, appointments, writing what the Holy Spirit has given me to say, speaking with the saints, praying with them, preparing for my new students, checking registration, counseling, meeting new clients for my other business (Covered and United, LLC), praying for direction and guidance for the serving half of the day, journaling, working on my Book and preparing for dinner if not checking in with my family or Spiritual children (to sum it up)
T4RM: What’s your vision for the next 5–10 years of the ministry?
SNL: My Vision for the next 5-10 years of the Ministry is to continue to teach, visit those that are desperate for the Word, and see Real Revivals where people are crying out from the pulpit to the parking lot for Real. There’s no need for security because the Power of the Holy Ghost is so compelling that every man Jack and woman Jane will be drawn to the Name of Jesus, as He said, “if I be lifted up I will draw all men unto me.” (John 12:32)
T4RM: How do you stay spiritually grounded and refreshed with so much responsibility?
SNL: I stay spiritually grounded and refreshed by first giving God His time at the First and Last of the Day. I shut down from everything on Mondays and it’s Me and Him so that I can rejuvenate for what’s to come. I rest. I Worship. I Do Whatever HE Says or Not!
T4RM: What advice would you give to young women feeling the call to lead in ministry?
SNL: Pray, ask God to send a Real Mentor who is like a RUTH that will lead you into the right path to the fulfillment of your purpose.
T4RM: Looking back, what would you tell your younger self?
SNL I would tell my younger self to stay trusting God, because He truly knows everything. He puts people in your path, don’t shut them out, they are Necessary for the journey.
T4RM: What legacy do you hope to leave behind?
SNL The legacy I hope to leave behind is Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust in the Lord with all your Heart and lean not to your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.
T4RM: “As we come to the end of this powerful and Spirit-led interview, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude not just for the wisdom Apostle Shawna Naraine-Lathan has shared, but for the divine role she continues to play in my life. She was the one who first confirmed the prophetic gift within me, and now, in this sacred season, she is the vessel God is using to affirm and publicly recognize my call and elevation to the office of Apostle.
This moment marks more than a title it marks a divine commissioning, a new mantle, and a deeper level of responsibility in the Kingdom. Apostle Shawna, I honor you for your obedience, your spiritual insight, and for trusting God enough to see and speak what He reveals.
To everyone reading, know this: when God aligns you with those who carry authority, vision, and integrity, your purpose is not only confirmed it is activated. Thank you, Apostle Shawna, for affirming what Heaven has already declared.”
FROM THE CONTRIBUTORS OF TRANSFORMATIONAL 4REAL
TO ALL THE AMAZING MOTHERS, MOTHER FIGURES, AND SPIRITUal MOTHERS WE CELEBRATE YOU today
The 4 Pillars of a Transformational 4Real
Lifestyle
A transformational JOURNEY TO WHOLENESS
1. REAL FAITH (SPIRITUAL TRANSFORMATION)
Authentic Relationship with God – Not just religious practices but a deep, personal faith in Jesus.
Daily Connection – Prayer, Bible study, and worship become a natural part of life (Matthew 6:33).
Faith in Action – Living out faith in real ways helping others, standing for truth, and trusting God in all circumstances (James 2:17).
Bold Identity in Christ – Knowing you are chosen, loved, and empowered by God (1 Peter 2:9).
2. REAL GROWTH (PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT & MINDSET SHIFT)
Renewed Mindset – Thinking with confidence, wisdom, and Kingdom purpose (Romans 12:2).
Overcoming Challenges – Facing struggles with faith, resilience, and perseverance (James 1:2-4).
Discipline & Self-Control – Learning how to manage emotions, time, and resources wisely (Galatians 5:22-23).
Dreaming Big, Living Boldly – Stepping into your God-given potential with courage (Ephesians 3:20).
3. REAL RELATIONSHIPS (COMMUNITY & INFLUENCE)
Healthy Friendships & Family Bonds – Building relationships based on trust, love, and respect.
Encouraging & Lifting Others Up – Speaking life, not negativity, and being a light (Proverbs 18:21).
Living with Integrity – Being real, honest, and true to your values, even when no one is watching.
Serving & Giving Back – Helping others, mentoring younger ones, and using gifts for a greater cause (Matthew 5:16).
4. REAL IMPACT (PURPOSE & INFLUENCE IN THE WORLD)
Finding Your Purpose – Discovering and using your gifts to impact the world for good (Jeremiah 29:11).
Making a Difference – Whether through leadership, creativity, entrepreneurship, or ministry, being a change-maker.
Walking in Boldness – Not being afraid to stand out, lead, and influence culture with truth and love (2 Timothy 1:7).
Leaving a Legacy – Living a life that inspires and empowers others to rise up and live transformed.
WHAT A 4REAL LIFESTYLE LOOKS LIKE IN ACTION
✅ A person who stands up for what’s right, even when it’s hard.
✅ Someone who chooses faith over fear and pursues their dreams with courage.
✅ A person who lives with purpose whether in school, business, sports, or ministry.
✅ A friend who builds up others and helps them become their best selves.
✅ A game-changer who takes action instead of just talking about change.
inquiring minds want to know?
HOW
DO I TRUST GOD
ACCORDING TO [PROVERBS 3:5-6]?: TRUSTING GOD'S WISDOM: NOT LEANING ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING
Life often presents us with decisions that require clarity, guidance, and discernment. In these moments, it’s tempting to rely on what we see, feel, or think we know. However, Scripture urges us to resist the pull to depend solely on our human reasoning and instead anchor our trust in the unfailing wisdom of God.
WHY WE TEND TO LEAN ON OUR OWN UNDERSTANDING
As humans, we naturally gravitate toward logic, experience, and emotion when making choices. These aren’t inherently wrong God gave us minds to think and hearts to feel but they’re not infallible. Our understanding is limited by time, emotion, and perspective.
We don’t see the full picture. We can't predict the future. Our feelings fluctuate.
And sometimes, our logic is based on flawed assumptions.
That’s why the Bible continually calls us to something greater: God’s infinite wisdom.
WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO TRUST IN THE LORD?
To “trust in the Lord” means to place complete confidence in His character, His Word, and His plan even when we don’t understand the ‘why’ or ‘how.’
The Hebrew word for “trust” used in Proverbs 3:5 implies lying helplessly face down, completely reliant. It’s the picture of total surrender no backup plan, no secondguessing, no Plan B. Just faith that God sees what we cannot.
BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF TRUSTING GOD OVER LOGIC
Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22): God asked Abraham to sacrifice his promised son, Isaac. It made no logical sense. Yet Abraham obeyed, trusting that God would provide—and He did.
Joshua and Jericho (Joshua 6): Marching around walls for seven days with trumpets wasn’t a military strategy. But Joshua followed God's unconventional plan, and the walls came down.
Mary, the mother of Jesus (Luke 1:26–38): A virgin giving birth? Impossible—yet she trusted God’s word and responded, “Be it unto me according to your word.”
THE DANGER OF SELF-RELIANCE
Leaning on our own understanding can lead to anxiety, confusion, and poor choices. Jeremiah 17:9 warns us, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?” Our emotions can mislead us. Our pride can blind us. Our assumptions can derail us.
When we depend solely on ourselves, we are essentially saying, “I know better than God.” That mindset not only limits us—it distances us from the peace, provision, and direction God longs to give.
HOW TO STOP LEANING ON YOUR OWN UNDERSTANDING
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN GOD’S WORD
“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
Scripture helps renew your mind and align your thoughts with God’s truth.
PRAY FOR WISDOM
“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God... and it will be given.” (James 1:5) God is not withholding guidance. He’s inviting us to ask for it.
SURRENDER DAILY
Make it a practice to say: “God, I don’t understand this situation, but I trust You with it.”
Surrender isn’t weakness it’s a bold act of faith.
SURROUND YOURSELF WITH GODLY COUNSEL
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
Wise, Spirit-led people can help point us toward God’s will.
LOOK BACK ON GOD’S FAITHFULNESS
Remember how He’s provided and guided you in the past. Let that testimony fuel your trust today.
the real deal FOR MEN
So, we continue from the last issue, with the ongoing drive toward the emasculation of man from various groups, and the many subtle ways it is being done. However, with that being said the sad, often overlooked fact is that man is the biggest emasculators of themselves and that is the cold, hard, truth.
When God gave mankind dominion over the earth, it was not meant for us to exercise lordship over each other. Sin entered the domain of the earth through the disobedience of Adam and Eve, and then dominion fell into the hands of Satan. One of the punishments handed down by God to Eve, was that her husband would rule over her, and her desire would be towards him. The man therefore, was given the responsibility of ruling the household (and that would be his own household), having his wife and children in subjection. This rulership was supposed to reflect the nature of God according to 1 Corinthians 11:3. Alas, the evil nature that sin brought, corrupted the good morals and standards that God intended for mankind. The unscrupulous behavior exhibited especially by the male species, has brought undue hardships both to humanity and the ecosystem he was made to address.
Let’s look at the world situation from God’s point of view; just a small part. He made a people for Himself, drawn out from the world and was their supreme leader. He made Samuel prophet, priest and judge at the time. 1 Samuel 8 describes God’s leading and ruling as one of equity for all the people, but they rejected that and opted to have a king (a man) rule over them like the other nations. The interesting thing though was that God, knowing the heart of man and how evil it is and can be, warned them what the king would be like and what he would do to them. He spoke of the upcoming abuse, degradation, deceitfulness, mismanagement, enslavement, egotism and the implementation of a hierarchical system etc. but you know what? They preferred that to equity. They wanted what they wanted regardless of the circumstances or consequences that would befall them. This right here is the same problem we are facing today. People always seemingly prefer to look to imperfect individuals or people to lead them, rather than to take the responsibility to think for themselves or even seek the counsel of God. Oftentimes we hear the statement, “it’s a man’s world,” and for the most part it is, though that seems to be rapidly changing; and what a mess we have made.
History has shown that great men have risen and built great empires and dynasties, but in their conquests and lordships have abused and demoralized many men in the presence of their families, communities, etc. All of this is to show themselves as better and superior to other men. In other words, a man’s man or a man among men Further to that, many women were treated like prized possessions, and if not of a certain pedigree or caliber, were dealt with very poorly; eventually leading to an increasing resentment of male dominance.
Another great atrocity that these so-called great men did, that many still follow today, is that they often elevated the status of their female cohorts and forced other men to submit to them and vice versa. This exacerbated gender strife. The dysfunctional undertakings of man have led to continuing and varying issues that will not be resolved as long as they do not submit to God. By now, you would understand why I said that men are the biggest emasculators of themselves. I am sure we could say a lot more, but for now, enough said Think about it Shalom
Being a fisherman is physically demanding work. Long-line fishermen face harsh weather day and night and long hours, so they must take breaks to maintain themselves physically and mentally while working in adverse conditions and rough seas, rain or shine.
Yes, preparing yourself mentally and physically before going to sea is critical as your first few days could be one of having seasickness, and there is no turning back or going home for the day, even though you might be going through all of that you have to stay focused as you do not just jump on the boat as you jump in your car to go to work stopping to buy gas or a coffee on your way to work! Oh no, it calls for strategic planning, you have to work as a team to ensure the vessel has adequate fuel, there is enough food, water and everything needed for each trip, which lasts at least fourteen days.
You need to check the weather forecast, gear, and vessel. Plan your route, file a route plan and stay focused and alert at all times. You have to be prepared for isolation and physical demands on your body. ( Sailors sometimes jump off of ships when isolation gets the better of them).
A commercial fishing vessel uses long floating lines with hooks to catch fish at night. The crew works in deep waters, fishing for tuna, shark, swordfish, and marlin. The crew sets baited hooks, waits for daylight, and then hauls in the catch. It's physically demanding hard work, with limited space to work and weather conditions that can change suddenly.
Working with a tight-knit crew of five men, communication and teamwork are crucial on a small vessel so you rely on each other's strengths as you stay vigilant to ensure a safe and successful trip. When the crew hauls in the catch, they sort and process the fish on deck. Then stores the catch in ice chambers to preserve freshness, ensuring a high-quality product for the market. Ice is replenished as needed to maintain optimal storage conditions. We're fishing in relatively deep waters, where larger species like tuna, shark, swordfish, and marlin can be found, so the crew needs to be experienced and skilled to navigate these depths safely with two hours of rest between shifts.
COLLIN ALLEYNE
It's a vital responsibility shared among all crew members and on your return to land, you have to prioritize vessel maintenance by cleaning and disinfecting the vessel, repairing gear, including hooks, restocking supplies, and being prepared for the next trip. This ensures everything is in "ship-shape" and provides optimal fishing performance for the next voyage.
I am able to say all this because I did this for a few years while living in Antigua and I'm speaking to this as I can relate with Peter, Andrew, James and John as like them Jesus has called me to be a fisher of men, and even though you may not have even held a fishing rod or you haven't caught one fish, He is calling you to fish men. His Word is your training ground, it also teaches you how to navigate through all sorts of weathers and conditions in life, and when you use every tool, and follow every rule, you'll be able to catch and preserve the lives of men, women and children wherever your ship set sail to. Like fishermen, you have to be prepared for isolation at times, for storms at sea ( I was caught in one and it was horrific) as some of our circumstances might be. We have to move forward as there is no way of turning back if you've set sail, you have to be fully prepared with the food and water you receive from The Word and you need to have your first aid kit to bind up the wounds of the broken hearted and ensure you preserve the freshness of those lives God has entrusted you with. You cannot be careless and allow them to rut and be thrown out. And just as Jesus took time away you need to return to your place of rest and replenish your vessel by washing and reinfecting it with the Word as many times we concentrate on cleaning the fish instead of preserving the fish and we get burnout by trying to do what God's Word has to do and we fall prey to the enemy as we are not taking the time to purify our vessels. So, we need to keep catching, preserving and maintaining our own vessels.
Just so, as Christians, we are called to fish for men, and though the work can sometimes be tiring and rough, with the spirit of God helping us it can be done
EDUCATES ABOUT THE DANGERS OF ALCOHOL ABUSE AND ADDICTION.
Each May, Mental Health Awareness Month invites us to pause, reflect, and speak up about an issue that affects millions yet often remains hidden behind silent struggles. As believers, we are called to live in truth, walk in light, and care deeply for the whole person mind, body, and spirit.
But here's the truth: even the most faithful can wrestle with anxiety, depression, trauma, or burnout. And that doesn’t make you weak. It makes you human.
GOD CARES ABOUT OUR MENTAL HEALTH
The Bible is full of people who faced emotional battles. Elijah, after performing miracles, sat under a broom tree and begged God to take his life (1 Kings 19). David poured out his soul in the Psalms, crying, “Why, my soul, are you downcast?” (Psalm 42:5). Even Jesus, in the garden of Gethsemane, said, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38).
These sacred moments remind us: God sees, God hears, and God is with us even in our darkest valleys.
THE STIGMA MUST GO
Too often, in Christian communities, mental health struggles are met with clichés like “Just pray more,” or “You don’t have enough faith.” While prayer is powerful, mental health challenges require compassion, support, and sometimes professional care. Let’s normalize therapy. Let’s celebrate healing journeys. Let’s create safe spaces where people can be honest about their pain without fear of judgment.
PARTNERING FAITH WITH WISDOM
James 2:17 tells us that “faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”
That means praying and taking steps toward wholeness. That might include counseling, rest, medication, journaling, lifestyle changes, or trusted accountability. There’s no shame in needing help. In fact, seeking help is one of the bravest, most faith-filled things you can do.
WHAT CAN WE DO THIS MONTH?
Here are a few powerful ways to honor Mental Health Awareness Month in your life and community:
Check on your strong friends. They often hide the deepest wounds.
Start the conversation. Share your story. You never know who needs to hear it.
Encourage someone to seek support Offer to go with them or pray with them Practice self-care as soul-care. Sabbath rest, quiet time, journaling, movement it’s all holy.
Speak life. Words have the power to heal or harm. Be a source of light.
A FINAL WORD OF HOPE
Mental illness is not a spiritual failure. It is a health condition—and it is not the end of your story. Whether you’re battling silently or standing strong for someone else, know this: You are not alone. God is near to the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18), and He delights in your healing.
This month, and every month, may we be a community that chooses compassion over condemnation, faith over fear, and hope over silence.
In the world we live in and its’ system being the greatest means of having power, showing how powerful you are, always winning, large and in charge, sadly has crept into the system that's not of this world, or should I say the fake or false system that wants us to believe that it's not of this world, but if we really and truly study God's Word we will quickly understand and grasp that it's the plan of the devil to deceive those who this lifestyle sounds good to them.
This should not resonate with a true believer in Jesus Christ and The Word of God as The Word says in Luke 9:48 “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For it is the one who is least among you all who is the greatest.'"
This is one of the reasons the fakes in the days of the disciples said these men came to turn the world upside down as Jesus taught them. The least would be the greatest not the great. The world and its’ system are not threatened by us because we're on the same level, we have the same pitch, we operate in the same vein as them. We're not ruffling feathers much less turning the world upside down.
In Mark 9: 35, we see Jesus again speaking not only to them but to us too (as The Word is left for us to live by).It says, “Sitting down, Jesus called the twelve and said, anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all. WOW! You're telling me I graduated on top of my class, I'm The Bishop, The Prophet, The Leader and I should operate as though I'm at the bottom of the barrel? Then serve all. All should serve me! Says who! Says Jesus The Word that became flesh and dwelt amongst men. Yes! He became the least for us and He served all, even washing His disciples’ feet.
As we go through the New Testament, Jesus came and indeed turned everything upside down. He said we as adults should become as little children, not big children, not teenagers but little children, who have no guile, no thought of feeling they're above anyone but are totally dependent on the person who's taking care of them. Not feeling they're above their Master and Lord.
If we're in The Word, we'll remember when the two disciples, who were worried about their position in the kingdom, choose to let their mother be the one to pop the question. Jesus's response in Matthew 20: 20-28, asked them if they'll first be able to drink that cup. They said they could, and He said okay you will but I can't say where you'll be positioned that's left to The Father as we'll have to past all the test on Judgement Day. This situation caused the other disciplines to get angry, and it's what Jesus told them that's important.
He said, from verse 25-28:
25 You know that the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and they that are great exercise authority upon them.
26 But it shall not be so among you: but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister;
27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant:
28 Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Where do we find ourselves in these verses that are Jesus's Words? How low will we go to follow Him and make it into the Kingdom of God and not the Kingdom of this world. Are you levelling up or prepared to turn this world and its system upside down.
Queen get up
You have held your head down too long
Where has your fight
And your strength gone?
Queen get up
This battle is not lost
You have to continue to fight
No matter what the cost.
Queen get up
You've got so much more to do
Your husband and children
Are depending on you.
Queen get up
Keep your emotions at bay
Plan your strategies
Because tomorrow is another day.
Queen get up
And please fix your crown
You have to win this battle
You can’t let them down.
Queen get up
Unless you are in prayer
You can't win the war
Unless the Lord is there.
Queen get up
March right out the door
With the heart of a lion,
You know victory is yours.
Queen get up
You ain't playing around
Lift your head to the sky
This ain't no time to be looking down.
Queen get up,
Although you wept last night
Time to put the sorrow away
You will never again fear the enemies
You fought yesterday.
Queen get up!
When God took Adam’s rib, He molded a true essence of what a mother is. The bearer to your existence. With open eyes, she’s the first face you see. An unbreakable connection, she’s the genesis of your total being. Sealed in the ark of safety, by her hugs, with the healing of a wound, from a little kiss, with the warmth of our nurturing charm.
Ever present always. A mother will see you through thick and thin. She will over shadow your faults, she’s your conscience, your best friend. In irreplaceable treasure, and a royalty, which bears no crown. She is the glue that bonds everything together, and the anchor who holds it down. A mother is to be honored; protected, respected, and commanded to be held, a mother is called.
May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month a time to bring visibility, compassion, and community support to those impacted by one of the most complex and challenging diagnoses a person can face.
Brain cancer doesn't just affect the body. It impacts memory, mobility, communication, and cognition. It interrupts lives and tests families. But amidst the medical terms and emotional weight, there remains one powerful truth: God is still present, even here.
“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me…” – Psalm 23:4 (NIV)
UNDERSTANDING THE REALITY
Brain and central nervous system cancers account for about 1.4% of all cancers but can have devastating effects due to their location.
Glioblastoma is the most aggressive and common form of brain cancer in adults. Symptoms may include headaches, vision problems, seizures, and changes in behavior or personality.
Treatments often involve a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy but the road is rarely easy.
Because of the physical and emotional toll, support, awareness, and faith are essential for patients and their families.
WHERE FAITH MEETS THE FIGHT
For those walking through a brain cancer diagnosis whether personally or with a loved one the journey can be overwhelming. There are scans, treatments, and long nights of uncertainty. But in the silence, God is still speaking.
He is there in the hospital room. He is there when words are hard to find. He is present in the tears and in the triumphs.
HEALING MAY LOOK DIFFERENT THAN WE EXPECT BUT HOPE IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE.
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1
WAYS TO SUPPORT BRAIN CANCER WARRIORS
Pray with intention. Don’t just say “I’m praying” actually intercede for peace, strength, wisdom, and healing.
Be present. Sometimes presence speaks louder than words. Sit with them. Cry with them. Rejoice in small victories.
Offer practical help. Meals, transportation, childcare, or helping navigate healthcare logistics makes a difference.
Support caregivers. Their journey is heavy too. Offer them rest, encouragement, and appreciation.
Educate yourself. Learn about the disease to better understand their needs and challenges.
A LIGHT THAT CANNOT BE DIMMED
Brain cancer may affect how someone moves, speaks, or thinks but it cannot diminish their spirit, their value, or the power of prayer. Every person fighting brain cancer is a warrior, whether their journey includes recovery, daily treatment, or the embrace of eternity.
Let this month be a sacred space to honor:
Those fighting now
Those we’ve lost too soon
Those who love them fiercely
Let us respond with compassion, advocate for research, and reflect the light of Christ in the darkest moments.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ARTHRITIS
Every May, Arthritis Awareness Month shines a light on a condition that affects over 58 million adults in the U.S. alone but is too often misunderstood or underestimated.
Arthritis is not just “aches and pains.” It’s a complex group of over 100 conditions that cause inflammation in the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, swelling, and often life-altering fatigue. For many, it’s a daily struggle. But in the midst of pain, there is also perseverance and in every story, the possibility of divine strength.
“He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.”
— Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in the U.S. It affects people of all ages, including children (juvenile arthritis). Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout.
Symptoms range from joint pain and stiffness to chronic fatigue and mobility challenges.
The impact of arthritis isn’t just physical it affects mental, emotional, and spiritual health as well. That’s why awareness matters. So we can respond with compassion, support, and faith.
ENCOURAGEMENT FOR THOSE LIVING WITH ARTHRITIS
To the one reading this who lives with daily discomfort: God sees you. He cares about your pain, and He walks with you in every step stiff, slow, or strong.
Pain doesn’t make you less faithful. It doesn’t mean God has forgotten you. In fact, your endurance is a testimony of grace under pressure.
“My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
Let your slow mornings and painful nights be places where you meet God's presence, peace, and healing touch.
By taking action, we can break the cycle of abuse and create a safer world for children.
WAYS TO SUPPORT SOMEONE WITH ARTHRITIS
Don’t minimize their pain. Even if they “look fine,” the struggle is real.
Offer practical help. Simple tasks like grocery shopping, lifting, or cleaning can be overwhelming during a flare.
Be patient. Delays, cancellations, or slower movements are not laziness they’re signs of strength in the struggle. Encourage movement and rest. Offer to join them in gentle stretching or prayer walks.
Speak life. Your words can be healing. Remind them of their worth, courage, and beauty in Christ.
FAITH-FILLED WELLNESS TIPS
Alongside prayer and medical care, these practical steps can support wellness:
Stay physically active with joint-friendly exercises like walking, swimming, or stretching.
Eat an anti-inflammatory diet, including omega-3s, leafy greens, and berries.
Practice good sleep habits. Rest helps the body recover and reduces flare-ups.
Use heat or cold therapy for pain management.
Stay spiritually grounded. Worship, journaling, and time in the Word can help you cope emotionally and spiritually.
