We recently had the chance to connect with Christina Kelly and have shared our conversation below.
Christina, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What do you think others are secretly struggling with—but never say?
If we could see into the minds of people, we’d witness a mess that most would never admit.
The façades we wear are convincing. We mask our brokenness with casual conversation, designer clothes, positions, and titles—getting involved in high-status circles just to cover how empty and hurting we really are inside. We live in a world where an electronic box dictates our life and worth.
The Bible says in Job 14:1, “Man that is born of a woman is of few days and full of trouble.” That trouble isn’t just around us—it lives within us. And yet, people still strive to act as if life is perfect. Someone could be laughing and smiling one moment—“haha-heeing”—but the next moment, they’ve taken their own life. Mental health is a real thing and it’s good to see more support around it but there is also a spiritual dynamic.
Why is this happening? Because we’ve become professionals at internalizing pain.
The hurt… the rejection…
The childhood trauma…
The jealousy… the bitterness… the anger…
That missed opportunity that still haunts you…
Being treated like the black sheep…
Feeling unloved, unworthy, unseen. Not understanding why you’re hearing thoughts that you think are yours but they are not!
I’ve come to realize—people don’t just act the way they act.
There’s always an underlying reason.
But we hide it—because we fear being judged, misunderstood, or labeled.
And I don’t care what anyone says—there is an adversary.
Satan.
He comes to kill, steal, and destroy.
He whispers lies into your mind, convinces you you’re worthless, and magnifies the darkness you’re already facing.
So now you’re fighting three battles:
Your self, the pressures of the world, and the attacks of the enemy.
But here’s the truth: God has already told us about these things—and He’s given us the tools to overcome.
There’s pain in silence.
There’s bondage in secrecy.
But freedom comes when you say, “Enough is enough!”
Come hell or high water—I am coming out of this.
Whatever it takes, just don’t give up. And don’t let taking your life be an option.
There is a God who truly loves you.
There is a Savior who sees every wound, every tear, every silent scream.
Let go of the bitterness. Let go of the rebellion. Let go of unforgiveness and the fear and doubt!!
Because until you do, you won’t be able to see the peace, the joy, and the purpose that’s waiting for you.
Don’t let this world deceive you.
No, your problems may not disappear overnight,
But you can walk through them with peace.
You can survive with freedom in your soul.
Don’t worry about what people think. Save your life. Go to Jesus.
He is the Author and Finisher of your faith.
I’ve had my share of these things.
And I’m still walking through it.
But I refuse to let go of Jesus.
If I have to run, I’ll run.
If I have to walk, I’ll walk.
And if I have to crawl—then crawl I will.
But I won’t give up.
And neither should you.
I was at a local farmers market and there was a vendor handing out magnets to people. He gave one to me and it has been one of the things that has helped me through some hard times. I really believe the LORD put that gentleman there at the right time. Anyway this is what it says:
In case no one told you today: You’re beautiful, You’re loved. You’re needed. You’re alive for a reason. You’re stronger than you think. You’re going to get through this. I’m glad you’re alive. Don’t give up!!!
I now send this to you!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Honestly, I feel like I have my hands in a little bit of everything right now. I wouldn’t say I have a set “brand” just yet—I’m taking it one day at a time, trusting the process and allowing things to unfold as they should.
That said, I’m most known for my work in real estate, notary services, and environmental site inspections. One of the things I’m proud of is my notary business, N&E Notary, which is named after my two sons—their initials remind me daily of who I’m doing this for. While I’m still in the early stages of making the business fully official, it’s a labor of love that’s growing with me.
I recently passed my real estate exam and am actively pursuing a career in real estate. It’s a step I’ve taken not only for myself but to build something greater for my family’s future.
Everything I’m working on is rooted in faith, family, and a desire to grow into all that God has for me. I may not have it all figured out, but I’m committed to showing up, doing the work, and staying open to what’s next.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that has most shaped how I see myself is my relationship with the Lord. It has truly been the foundation of everything in my life. Even in the moments when I felt unworthy—those “woe is me” seasons—God has been my constant, my rock.
I gave my life to Christ at the age of 20. I haven’t done everything right since then, but what I’ve experienced time and time again is His grace. I never imagined I’d be married, have children, or experience any real peace in my mind. I thought I’d be a nomad forever, just surviving. I didn’t believe anyone—let alone God—could love me in spite of the brokenness and the parts of myself I struggled to face.
But here I am. Not perfect. Not “there” yet. But I’m in the process. And as long as Jesus—my friend, my Father, my healer, my everything—is with me, I know I’m going to make it.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
It taught me that I can make it through.
Suffering has shown me that hard times don’t mean I’m stuck—they mean I’m moving. I’m pushing. I’m growing. Pain is proof of the process. It’s uncomfortable, yes—but it’s also a sign that I’m still alive, still pressing toward the other side.
Suffering is inevitable. It’s a part of life. But what I’ve come to understand is that it produces something in you that success ;according to the world’s standards, could never do.
As James 1:2-4 says:
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Now let me be real—I don’t enjoy it. I don’t wake up asking for suffering. But I’ve learned that when you put your faith in the Lord, He gives you peace that goes beyond all understanding. And it’s in those dark, uncertain moments where faith becomes real. Because if everything was always handed to you, where’s the room for faith to grow? How would you ever know that God can provide when you’re lacking, or that He can heal when you’re sick?
Success is great, but it doesn’t shape character the way suffering does. Without trials, we become impatient, entitled, and reckless. That’s how spoiled people are made—people who crumble at the first sign of discomfort, who make impulsive decisions because they’ve never had to wait, trust, or endure.
Suffering taught me how to stand when I felt like falling. It taught me to pray when I had no words. And it showed me that God is faithful, even when life is not.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
Honestly, my admiration for people is far and few between. But there are a few whose character has truly impacted me.
I admire my mother-in-law for her loving and forgiving heart. That kind of grace is something I’m still striving to develop myself—whew, I’m a work in progress, but I’m learning!
I admire my husband for his loyalty and unwavering faith. He has this boisterous strength and trust in God that sometimes makes me jealous (in a good way!). It challenges me to grow in my own walk.
I admire my church’s secretary—I lovingly call her “Auntie.” Her drive, work ethic, and ability to keep a poker face in any situation are unmatched. No matter what’s happening around her, she remains poised and focused. That kind of steadiness is a gift. Her husband is the same way and he’s uncle Deac.
And I have to mention Egypt Sherrod—the amazing woman behind the show Married to Real Estate. I love her balance. She’s not afraid to get her hands dirty, she works hard, and yet she still carries herself with confidence and class. She’s a powerhouse, but also deeply respectful toward her husband. I especially admire how quick she is to stand up for him and their marriage. So shout-out to Egypt and Mike—I truly respect what they represent!
These people remind me that character is what speaks loudest—way louder than power ever could.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What will you regret not doing?
Prayerfully, I won’t have to live with any more regrets. But if I did, it would be for not becoming everything the Lord created me to be. I would regret not laying it all on the table—not giving my full yes to God, not stepping into the purpose He placed on my life.
I would regret holding back—out of fear, doubt, or insecurity—and not pursuing the dreams, callings, and opportunities that were meant for me. I’d regret not leaving a legacy for my children. Not seeing the greatness within myself, and not using it fully.
Most of all, I would regret not helping the people I was sent to help. Because I believe we’re all assigned to someone. And I don’t want to leave this world with my purpose still in me.
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