INTRODUCTION

"From Recovery to Freedom," was a book I had published in 2018.  It was all about my testimony and freedom from Paranoid Schizophrenia.  In the book, I wrote on mental illness from one biblical standpoint. I would like to revisit that book and let readers know how I am doing now.  Maybe even going deeper into the chapters of the book.  

My writing/blogging has changed though, I am not as focused on spiritual warfare like I was back then.  Those truths have given me a firm foundation.  My relationship with God is deeper and richer now. I love to spend time with Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. I love listening to worship plus read and memorize the holy scriptures, and of course writing.

I don't have a fanatic testimony since writing that book...I went through a divorce and another hospital stay. But God has still moved in profound ways solidifying his love and pouring grace back into my life.  I still have bouts with depression and anxiety, but not as severe as they were back in the day.  

My book is not a bestseller or in the top ten. But I believe it gives one aspect of someone who has stood the test of time and being proactive about not isolating my story...It gave me a proactive voice that will not be stifled or silenced, for the mandate on my life.   I believe my book has helped me to reach out to those who truly suffer mentally, and to wake up the leaders in this day and time. We live in a really sad day when the pastors and elders of the church do not have enough grace and compassion for those who fall into the cracks!

We as Christians can go through seasons of mental distress. Some of us may in fact struggle mentally.  It is nothing to be ashamed of.  The church leaders want to put their heads in the sand and not address it. Current issues, like mental health cannot be overlooked. They can say we are demon oppressed or possessed all they want.  They tell us to rebuke that demon and not think to think about it.  But how can pastors know if they haven't been right where you are?  You just cannot shun people and expect them to go away. That could literally come back on you!

In this day and age, it is very imperative to speak about it and not turn a blind eye to those who suffer.  Those people sitting in the same chair beside you at church could be a silent sufferer.  Those people need to know they are loved by God as much or even more than we do.   We should extend compassion and grace to others as Jesus does.