Secunda author Kesegie Maphumulo (40) has released a devotional book, 7 Life Lessons to Remember from the Book of Genesis.

Kesegie, who wrote romance novels from 2010 and online fiction and supernatural romance until 2016, shifted her focus through her spiritual journey with God and now writes to glorify Him.

“A lot has happened. I lost my brother in 2022, and then my dad and grandmother within the space of a few years,” said Kesegie.

Her devotional began during her personal Bible study.

“I wanted to understand the Bible and apply it to my life. I wanted to discover what was in the Bible that I could use to better my life by studying scripture, reading verses every day, writing them down and understanding them better,” she said.

She believes the Book of Genesis is often overlooked because it focuses on the early days of creation and humanity.

“I felt there had to be something there because it exists and we need it. There must be something we can learn from it.”

Drawing on her experiences of trauma, loss and personal growth, Kesegie began writing in a devotional style.

It took her from 2022 until now to refine the manuscript before publishing the pocket-sized book.

“I would open the document, close it and make a few changes over a long period of time. But I knew it was something God wanted me to do,” said Kesegie.

“My life was going through many changes. I was evolving as a person, in the way I see the world and the way I love.”

“I spent a lot of time reflecting on what I had written and realised that I wanted my writing to align with God and the way He wants me to live.”

Kesegie is a receptionist in Sasol’s engineering department. She holds a diploma in public relations and a degree in communication and English, and is completing her honours degree in communication.

She said the book is structured around scripture, with each lesson from Genesis linked to her personal life experiences.

“I prayed very hard. These experiences are deeply personal and are things that have happened in my life. I want readers to be able to relate,” said Kesegie.

The book also includes space for readers to write their own personal prayers.

“A lot of thought and time went into this book. I designed it in a size that you can take anywhere with you,” said Kesegie.

Without giving too much away, one of Kesegie’s favourite lessons is:

Remember that no one can take my purpose away from me, and God can even use a bad experience for divine intentions.

She cites Genesis 50:20:

“You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good. He brought me to this position so I could save the lives of many.”

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“Your life is different when you choose obedience. It becomes quieter, with fewer people, less noise and more peace. I found peace with Jesus, and I am proud of it.”

Kesegie hopes readers will be encouraged by her devotional.

“There is hope. Not everything happens in the time you want it to; sometimes you have to stop, be still and wait. God will take over,” said Kesegie.

Her husband, Earnest (45), whom she married last year, and her daughter, Keshree, have been her greatest supporters, and together the family walks in the Christian faith.

“All the praise and glory to God,” said Earnest.

Keshree added: “It is a good read. It is inspiring.”

The book launch will take place on September 5 at 14:30 at the Secunda Reformed Church, 100A Silkaatskop Street. The launch is for women only. The devotional is designed as a pocket-sized book that readers can take anywhere.