Warrior Wellness Monthly

MENTAL WELLNESS EDUCATION | SERVANT LEADERSHIP TRAINING

On April 2, we had the honor of leading a Mental Wellness & Self-Care class with the incredible staff at Adult and Teen Challenge of Texas, Houston Women's Campus - pouring back into those who serve others every day. So grateful for the way Jesus calls and equips us to serve - not in our own strength, but in His. Honored to walk alongside hearts that show up, pour out and continue to serve with love.

On April 7, we had the privilege of stepping back in with the leadership team at The Warriors Refuge for our second Servant Leadership session - this time centered on Empathy & Listening. Not just hearing words, but truly being present. Not just responding, but seeking to understand. These are the moments that shape how we lead, how we serve and how we show up for others.

SERVANT VOICES! April’s newsletter is a special one - highlighting authors who lead with a true servant’s heart. We’re honored to feature Dr. Jay Gregson and Mike Williams, two individuals using their gifts to inspire, encourage and pour into others. Through their words, both remind us that faith, growth and kindness are meant to be lived out and shared. Whether through teaching, storytelling or personal testimony, their work reflects a deep commitment to serving others well. We’re grateful to walk alongside voices like theirs, bringing light and truth into the lives of those they reach.

Warrior Spirit Servant Spotlight

Dr. Jay Gregson | Author of Work Out Your Salvation

Some people don’t just talk about growth - they live it, day in and day out. That’s exactly what you’ll find in our friend, Dr. Jay Gregson.

Jay’s heart for others, his discipline and his faith all come together in his new book, Work Out Your Salvation, a message that feels especially timely for the Warrior Spirit community.

A Calling Built Over Time

Jay shared that this book wasn’t written in a single moment, but through a season of alignment and obedience.

“The inspiration for Work Out Your Salvation didn’t happen all at once; it developed over time through my personal experiences, teaching and spiritual growth.”

For years, he had been using workout analogies to help people better understand their walk with Christ. But about a year ago, after removing strongholds from his own life and completing his doctoral degree, something became clear:

“I felt a clear and direct calling from God to write this book … everything aligned in that season - spiritually, mentally and personally - and I knew it was time.”

Faith Isn’t Passive

At the core of Jay’s message is this truth: faith requires action.

“When I talk about working out your salvation, I’m not just referring to a concept; it’s a lifestyle.”

He describes it as an intentional, daily pursuit - one that includes both physical and spiritual growth.

“Faith isn’t meant to be passive. It requires action, discipline and consistency … we must show up and put in the work to become stronger in every aspect of our lives.”

This perspective resonates deeply with the Warrior Spirit community - especially for those who already understand discipline through service, training or recovery.

Discipline That Builds, Not Restricts

Discipline has been a defining part of Jay’s journey - from sports, to military service, to the values instilled by his family.

But what stands out most is how he reframes it:

“I’ve learned that discipline isn’t about restriction; it’s about creating the structure needed to grow and succeed.”

That structure is what allows him - and all of us - to live out what we believe, instead of just talking about it.

A Message for Those Walking Through Hard Seasons

Jay’s message is especially powerful for veterans, first responders and individuals in recovery.

“Life is built on decisions. We must decide what truly matters if we want to grow.”

He speaks to the reality that many already understand physical discipline - but may not always apply that same level of commitment to their spiritual lives.

"When you bring those two together - physical discipline and spiritual growth - it creates a powerful synergy ... that balance can strengthen you, ground you and give you a deeper sense of purpose."

Start Small. 
Stay Consistent.

If there’s one takeaway Jay hopes readers carry with them, it’s this: “Start small but start with intention.”

Growth doesn’t happen overnight. It’s built in the daily choices, the quiet discipline, the consistent effort.

And just as important - who you surround yourself with matters.

“When you combine self-discipline with the right environment, you set yourself up for lasting growth.”

Why This Matters to Us

At Warrior Spirit, we believe in growth that’s lived out—through action, connection and purpose.

Jay’s message reflects that so well. It’s about showing up.

Doing the work. Staying grounded in faith and community.

We’re grateful for voices like his - and even more grateful to call him a friend.

Order a copy of Work Out Your Salvation HERE!

Warrior Spirit Servant Spotlight

Mike Williams | Author The Fox and The Mouse

Some stories are written … and some are lived, shared and carried over time. For Mike Williams, The Fox and the Mouse began as a simple story told to his daughters during long road trips - moments of connection that would eventually grow into something much bigger.

Mike debuted his book, The Fox and the Mouse, at the Spiritual Care Network’s Belly of the Whale Conference on April 9th, where it was met with excitement, meaningful conversations and a shared appreciation for stories that bring light into the world.

A lifelong educator and musician, Mike spent over 25 years shaping young lives as a choir and music teacher across Texas. His heart for teaching - and his gift for creativity - shine through in this beautifully illustrated children’s book, which centers on an unlikely friendship and reminds readers of the power of compassion, kindness and acceptance.

Reflecting on the heart behind the story, Mike shared, “This started as a story for my girls, just something to pass the time on long drives. I never imagined it would become a book, but I’ve always believed that the simplest stories can carry the biggest truths… kindness, friendship and seeing others for who they really are.”

Mike doesn’t just tell stories - he lives them. Known for his warmth, generosity and attentiveness to others, he brings that same spirit into every page, creating something that resonates with children and adults alike.

At Warrior Spirit, it was an honor to walk alongside Mike in helping bring this dream to life and to see it debut in a space filled with faith leaders, mental health advocates and community changemakers. The Fox and the Mouse is more than a children’s book … it’s a reminder that connection, kindness, and friendship can be found in the most unexpected places.

You can find the book here at Lulu.com!

And the companion activity book HERE—perfect for families and educators.

And that’s a story worth sharing!

CONNECT with Mike on social media for information on new books and events!

Warrior Spirit: Community Partners