‘Gangster preacher’ unleashes spiritual warfare in first book

Recording artiste and preacher of the gospel, Taneisha Shaw, has added author to her growing list of accomplishments with the release of her debut book.

Wisdom to Win the War: Unlock the Benefits of Spiritual Warfare, which was released on December 27, isn't just about personal spiritual growth -- it's a call to action for individuals and communities to change for the better, starting from within. Shaw, who grew up in a community affected by crime, believes that the root of the violence seen in society can be traced back to homes where children aren't being raised with the guidance of God.

"The book speaks to personal development and how, when people change, the community changes," said the woman, dubbed the 'gangster preacher'.

"The wisdom in the book helps you win the war within yourself, and, when we win that war, we can make a difference in the larger battle against crime," she added.

Shaw's own life story reflects the deep impact that exposure to crime can have. At just four years old, her father was shot and killed, causing her to experience many difficult times.

"I grew up in Maxfield Avenue, where crime and violence were just a part of everyday life," Shaw shared. "When you're surrounded by it, it becomes your reality, and you start thinking that it's normal."

However, Shaw's journey took a powerful turn on September 28, 2014, when she gave her life to Christ, leaving behind the dancehall lifestyle and the street culture that had defined her early years. Now she hopes that, after her own transformation, it will help others experience the same.

"The book is about wisdom, about learning to fight the spiritual battles we face," Shaw explained. "The Bible says we need to fight the good fight of faith. Many of us are in battles, spiritually, mentally, financially, and it's that fight that helps us grow. When we embrace the right wisdom, we can start to see the fruits of change."

"Once I changed, I saw a change in the people around me too. When individuals make the decision to change, it doesn't just stop with them, it spreads," Shaw added. She said that the book isn't just for people in the church.

"It's for anyone who is tired of the cycle of violence and wants to break free. It's about understanding that the battle we fight in our minds, hearts, and spirits can lead to real, positive changes in our lives and in our communities," she said.

Shaw also spoke about the importance of parents introducing God to their children from an early age. She explained that many parents aren't guiding their children with the wisdom and spiritual foundation they need, leaving them vulnerable to the influence of the streets.

"It starts in the home. Children need Jesus. They need the right guidance from their parents," Shaw pointed out. "But, when parents aren't planting those seeds, the children turn to the world for direction and that's where things start to go wrong," she added.