7 Days in the Fire

About the Book

I have always felt the hand of God. In 1991, God said, “You have a book to write.” For years, my flesh wrestled with the idea. In 1999, God sent me on a spiritual journey to Hawaii, “my heaven on earth.” In heaven, I walked and talked with God. The beautiful rainbows reminded me of His promise and He reminded me of the book I had to write. Uncertain what to write, I acknowledged Him and He directed my path. I vividly recalled my childhood memories, so I entitled the first attempt, “The Fruits of My Labor.” However, my faith was immediately tested when a thief burglarized my home and stole the laptop that housed the book. In frustration, I concluded that God released me from the book. The devil is a liar. God said, “Someone stole your laptop, not your memories.” I humbled myself, started over and patiently waited on God. Through many trials and tribulations, He never withdrew His hand. In 2007, sixteen years after God said I had a book to write, I didn’t sleep for “7” days straight. The last day of my test measured perseverance. I experienced “hell on earth” like never before. I called saints and family members to pray and fast with me until the midnight hour. The battle lasted all day, and before midnight my elder and minister came by and prayed with me. I slept that night. The next morning God said, “Write” and I willingly obeyed His voice. He revealed my past, present and future as I birthed the 7 Days in the Fire chapters in one day. Biblically, the fire symbolizes judgment; the number “7” speaks of completion, finishing, and rest. My soul is at rest. God’s outstretched hand brought me out of the fire as pure gold.

About the Author

 I was born the third from the youngest of ten siblings in Lorain, Ohio and moved to Elyria at the tender age of six. My childhood was not perfect, but everything happened in accordance with God’s plan; therefore, I have no regrets. I’m blessed and highly favored. I dedicate this book to my Angel, Jacqueline Preston who went to be with the Lord “7” years ago on April 21, 2000 (Good Friday). You are my keeper. I graduated from Elyria High School in 1983 and joined the United States Air Force in 1985. In accordance with God’s plan, I‘ve been stationed in North Carolina, Nevada, Virginia, Hawaii, Colorado and Florida. God used me as a vessel to write this book. Thank you, Jesus. He has always sheltered me from the storms. Prayerfully, I’ve been a good and faithful servant. I’m married to Irwin Noel (my silent strength of fifteen years) who is also in the Air Force. God blessed us with two gifted seeds, Tyrell and Tavaris. I’m excited about the next chapter of my life. I plan to retire in a few years and devote more time to God and my family. Other plans include restoring Mother Helen’s house, planting a garden, scrapbooking, publishing poems, playing the piano, picking berries, singing in the choir, fishing and finishing the family genealogy. My prayer is this: “That I may publish with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all thy wondrous works.” Psalm 26 (KJV)