AUTHOR Fadzai Zvarayi says her debut book Handing Down the Baton shares Christian values on dating while also exploring roots of the church.
She said the desire to impart her knowledge and the benefits of faith from her own experience drove her to write a book about Christian values. Her wish was for people to discover on their spiritual path a sense of calm, direction and hope.
The writer feels that Christian writing can speak to today's readers and tackle current issues.
“By providing a timeless perspective rooted in biblical values, Christian literature provides a moral compass in an ever changing world and offers insights and solutions that are relevant across time and culture as l demonstrated in my book. Christian literature deals with topics such as social justice, ethical dilemmas, mental health and relationships by offering hope and guidance to navigate these challanges in a way that aligns with Christian principles,” Zvarayi told NewsDay Life & Style .
She said the novel urges readers to consider their own prejudices and beliefs in addition to asking God for wisdom and direction on how to respond to obstacles in life.
Zvarayi said that it was difficult to write a book that would explain difficult spiritual ideas in a way that readers could understand.
“It took careful consideration and discernment to address modern issues while upholding biblical principles; this was a little problematic. I am grateful I managed to push through and it contributed to my personal growth and a deeper understanding of my own faith,” she noted.
Zvarayi said that while her book is appropriate for a wide audience, young adults and teenagers (16 years and above) were the target audience for her work. She believed that this group is receptive to exploring questions of faith, identity and purpose with hopes to guide them on their spiritual journey.
Her writings have been influenced by a wide range of authors such as Joel Osteen and Joyce Meyer.
The author also offered some key lessons, explaining that the book helped readers comprehend the church's beginnings and how to embrace purity in daily life.
She said that the book discusses soul ties and how they impact and enhance a believer's life.
The writer added that she was driven to write about soul ties because of the prevalence of unhealthy relationships and the need for guidance in navigating issues of purity in today's culture.
Zvarayi wanted to provide readers with biblical perspectives, practical advice and encouragement to make choices that honour God and lead to a life of purity and wholeness.