The new July issue of Guideposts magazine features a cover story on the third season winner of American Idol, Fantasia, who says she won many important battles in life before triumphing on TV's most popular show.

During her rise to the top of the Idol heap, viewers saw Fantasia's talent and charisma outshine the competition. In real life, it was determination and faith that kept her going -- and made her journey possible.

The illiterate, unwed mother was becoming little more than a sad statistic before she forced herself to realize who she really was and how she had to get her life on track to achieve her dreams.

Guideposts brings popular, engaging, and life-changing stories of hope and inspiration to millions of readers. Regular people and celebrities alike share their insight into relationships, health, family, self-help, and more.

Matt Richenthal is the Editor in Chief of TV Fanatic. Follow him on Twitter and on Google+.