BACKGROUND

"Even under pressure, true Gems reveal their luster."

BACKGROUND

JULIE L. STEEL

Julie is a distinguished entrepreneur, prolific writer, author, and teacher with an impressive career that spans over twenty-five years in leadership roles and three decades in ministry. Her unique blend of gifts, talents, and business acumen sets her apart in her field. Known for her emotional intelligence, practical solutions, and spiritual insight, which seamlessly integrate into every endeavor she undertakes is often attributed to her longevity and business success.

In 1999, with a pioneering spirit and sharp business instincts, Julie founded a multi-line insurance brokerage. She quickly rose as a top producer, making her indelible mark on the insurance industry. Through her pursuit of excellence, she received numerous accolades for her achievements. Her success made her a go-to resource, mentor and thought leader amongst her peers. Julie revolutionized the perception of insurance sales by emphasizing that insurance isn't about selling policies; it's about offering solutions.

After twenty years of ownership and dedicated service, Julie retired from insurance sales and took on a new challenge by becoming an insurance claims adjuster and consultant. This transition allowed her to apply her extensive knowledge in a new context, enhancing her career further. As an Independent Claims Consultant for Fortune 500 companies and various artisan businesses, she has brought a nuanced understanding to claims handling, treating each claim as a unique case needing to be resolved on its own merits versus a one-size-fits-all approach.

Julie's extensive experience across multiple sectors has positioned her at the forefront of leadership success. However, what truly underpins her accomplishments is her work in ministry, her faith, and her spiritual life. This holistic approach not only forms the foundational bedrock of her success in business but also continues to guide her in leadership, mentorship, and community engagements. Her career path is a testament that applying biblical principles to business practices profoundly enriches and shapes one's legacy.

Ministry

Born and raised in Harvey, Illinois, Julie was reared in church upon her father, the late Rev. John F. Steel, being ordained as a pastor when she was 5. Four years later, while attending a revival service after her father made the altar call, Julie, deeply convicted by his sermon, ran to the altar, repented for her sins, and gave her life to God at the age of nine. Entering her teenage years, she stopped attending church and backslid. Even in a falling estate, her heart was always tender toward God; she sought a church home to return to His loving arms. The best way to explain her experience upon returning to the altar once again to recommit her life to Jesus comes to mind in the song “Alabaster Box.” That is her testimony.

After just one year of renewed commitment to her faith, Julie embarked on her leadership journey in church ministry at the Christ Miracle and Healing Center Church, founded and pastored by the late Pastor Frances E. Thomas. With her sister in Christ, Anntina, Julie co-founded the youth group “The Unicorns.” She developed a Bible study curriculum through this ministry, organized community events, and spearheaded initiatives. The spiritual foundation she established with the youth group continues to resonate; many former members still seek her wisdom and counsel, exemplifying the indelible impact she left on their lives.

Julie was later divinely commissioned by God to begin an adult Bible study group that she named “Girlfriendz in God.” This group offered an in-depth exploration of the Bible, studying its texts line upon line, precept upon precept, from Genesis to Revelation. Initially, the study catered to women who began sharing their newfound understanding and biblical insights with their husbands. Inspired by their wives’ enriched knowledge of the Bible, many husbands requested to join the classes. Responding to this demand, Julie expanded the study to include men, renaming the group W.I.N.G.S. This ministry name became the impetus for Julie’s discipleship manual.

Julie has dedicated her life to the Great Commission for the past decade. Making disciples of men. Her innovative “Discipleship Training Camps” have gained recognition for cultivating a more intimate relationship with Christ-mature Christians who are biblically grounded and actively engaged in their faith.

Julie’s transformative teaching ministry, built on faith, obedience to God, and a servant’s heart, earned her the Servant’s Leader Award. In addition to her teaching ministry, she founded a brand-new podcast, “Cross Talk and Prophet Margins,” hoping to extend her reach in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Literary & Workshop Catalog

Julie’s literary talent is limitless, as her writing seamlessly traverses various genres. Her body of work is a testament to her creative depth and versatility, encompassing poetry, dramatic storytelling, devotionals, discipleship manuals, and books.

Julie’s notable works include:

Books

W.I.N.G.S. Discipleship Training Manual: A Blueprint for Victory in Spiritual Warfare

Blog

Traverse The Text

Christian Retreat and Training Material

Team Huddle Discipleship Training Camp
Wise Virgin Retreat & Vow Renewal
Road Map Through the Gospels Series
Traverse The Text: Navigating Scripture for Understanding the Christian Life and Discipleship

Devotional

Crowning Jewels: A 21-Day Devotional

Plays

The Final Passover: Behold the Lamb of God
The Last Mile of the Way

Poetry

An extensive collection of heartfelt and inspirational poems

Workshops

Her life application workshops are tailored to varied audiences.

Letters & Testimonies

From Godson

Sincerely Thankful, Gina B.

I just want to thank you, Godma Julie, for always having words to uplift me. From times when I was confused, not knowing which way to go, you always had a scripture for me, or even when I had a question on how to obtain true salvation or was not able to understand a scripture from the Bible, you always took the time out your day to explain it to me. Sometimes, we talked for hours about the Bible, which I needed that time. You did it for me in my time of need. Also, I appreciate the times you called or texted to see how I was doing. Most of all, I thank you for all the times you prayed for me; God knows I need it. Thank you so much, and God bless your ministry.

Sincerely Thankful, Gina B.

I have known Julie to be an honest, loving, charitable, very empathetic woman of faith for many years. Julie and I started out as simply church members of the same fellowship. However, as GOD would have it, I've had the opportunity to watch God bless her ministry and increase her supernaturally because of her faithfulness to him. I could literally write a book about the ways God has proven himself to me, through her life. A fighter, business guru, counselor, friend, sister and prayer warrior to name a few, she's a woman of great character. Genuine people with Godly virtues are a rare find, but our Julie Steel, affectionately called Jewelz is that diamond in the rough! I can't number the many times, I've randomly called, texted or messaged her amid stormy situations & she was always accessible. I Thank God that there has been numerous times I've reached out for prayers, a listening ear, advice, & encouragement, she stays fired up & ready to pour! Julie my friend, my sister & biggest cheerleader even gives of her own personal finances to build up & bless others monetarily. I happen to be a humble recipient of those gifts as well, & it's always been at times I need it the most. I remember being at the lowest point of my life, I felt useless & broken, weeping bitterly. I can't really explain to this day, how God used her to intercede & speak life to the darkness in my spirit that day! I'm forever grateful, my life has truly been enhanced & wonderfully blessed by knowing this woman of God. I encourage anyone desiring a relationship with Christ to link up with Sister Julie, who is well versed in ministry & callings. Julie my beloved sister & friend you still inspire me to grow & be better everyday! Keep soaring on the wings of faith, for our God is an unlimited source for the faithful! Love you always, virtuous woman! God please continue to prosper whatever she touches in Jesus name Amen! (I love you Jewelz)....