tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18354118649854577882024-02-02T02:19:00.397-08:00Reign Real: Becoming a Princess Warrior for ChristAuthor and Speaker, Carol Van Atta, helps women discover their royal identities as Daughters of the KingCarol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.comBlogger149125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-4820198880577782142018-11-17T22:41:00.000-08:002018-11-20T01:00:15.837-08:00Future Spiritual Warfare Fantasy<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am excited to announce I am working away on my latest spiritual warfare fantasy: <span style="color: #c27ba0;"><i><b>Guardian Watcher</b></i></span>. I wanted to share a sneak peek with my blog readers. Are you ready for "Josh" who may or may not be an angel? </span></span><br />
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<h2>
<span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Here is the back blurb from the book:</span></span></b></span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"> </span></span></span></h2>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><b>Angel? Demon? Superhero?
Or something else altogether? </b></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: small;">“Josh the Angel” isn’t sure what he is or where he came
from. The only thing he knows for certain<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">—</span>he has a mission: Help humans. </span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
</span>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s no doubt, those near replicas of him, minus the massive
wings, need serious help. If only he could stop blacking out and uncover the
memories he somehow managed to misplace. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Considering his bestfriend is a coyote; his current home an
underground bunker; and his favorite mode of transportation (after flying, of
course) a customized Harley Davidson; he’s an anomaly. Toss in a
few murders he may or may not have committed and Josh just might be crazy. He’s
definitely coming unglued, despite his physical prowess and supernatural
skill-set. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Between seeking clues about his past, saving people from
danger, and avoiding public scrutiny, becoming someone’s personal bodyguard is
the last thing he needs, but Piper Pruitt is magnet for trouble<span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;">—</span>big
trouble. </div>
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<br /></div>
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She’s also a magnet to him. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Protecting her turns into a full time job, a job he likes
far more than he should, because keeping Piper safe comes with a price tag, and
the price may be too high for either of them to pay. </div>
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<br /></div>
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The cost continues to grow when Josh and Piper risk their
lives to team up with an elite FBI team and a wayward pastor, on a quest to
stop a serial killer that isn’t quite human. Together they must fight spiritual
forces that shouldn’t exist. Forces that will destroy their city if allowed to
reign unchallenged. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Despite their best efforts to defeat the darkness,
unimaginable secrets are revealed, hearts broken, souls lost, and beliefs shattered. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For when you attempt to “do” God’s work by manipulating
truth and depending on lies, someone always loses. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Please note:</b> This is a standalone, spiritual warfare fantasy
and suspense adventure, with a touch of romance, no cliffhanger, and
ultimately, a happy ending. It is not part of the Soul Defenders’ Series, also by
Carol Van Atta. </div>
</span><br />
<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I am really looking forward to this and to finally, after being "off" my writing schedule for a few years, to finally complete <i>Reign Real: Becoming a Princess Warrior for Christ</i>, which might be getting a new cover! </span></span></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'd love to hear from you! What books are you enjoying right now? Would you like to be on my list for <i>Guardian Watcher</i> (fiction) and/or <i>Reign Real</i> (non-fiction/women)? Just drop me a message. </span></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: #c27ba0;"><b>Remember: Follow your dreams and Never Never give up. You are a daughter of the most high God and King. With Him all things are possible!</b></span></span></span><br />
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-82228731321596298352018-10-15T23:35:00.000-07:002018-10-15T23:35:17.542-07:00That One Little Prayer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSnK-vycHQE1xWPKSJun9Zg3Q0_00O3YdXErw1W6vsu-GpFyXe5mpNxYKNFpFssw9LiYUduYTEGW8VTivEX9J7yUqkH7gjA2gjOj4SpBYCUNU5f6KV1bBTMJoNdsFmrOkUZzAhVQtth4/s1600/the-prayer-of-jabez.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSnK-vycHQE1xWPKSJun9Zg3Q0_00O3YdXErw1W6vsu-GpFyXe5mpNxYKNFpFssw9LiYUduYTEGW8VTivEX9J7yUqkH7gjA2gjOj4SpBYCUNU5f6KV1bBTMJoNdsFmrOkUZzAhVQtth4/s400/the-prayer-of-jabez.png" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: magenta;"><i><b>How many of you remember, back around 2004, a little book, about an even littler prayer, became all-the-rage throughout the Christian Community, even touching mainstream markets? </b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><i>The Prayer of Jabez</i>, also referred to as Jabez's prayer was that little book, and it was based on a one verse prayer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I was one of the many who caught the Jabez fever, incorporating that little prayer into my prayer life, almost as if it was a magical, all-powerful formula for spiritual success. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">God's Word is no doubt powerful and supernatural in every way, however, with any prayer we speak frequently, we need to remember the meaning behind the words rather than simply reciting them by rote. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Prayers that become mechanical often lose their power for us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I'm not saying God's Word ever loses power, I'm simply saying when we fail to mean what we say and say what we mean, we are in danger of reducing our prayers to quickly uttered words with little or no real meaning. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Lately, I have made it a daily habit to pray through my neighborhood on my way to work. I often include the Lord's Prayer and ask the Lord bless to and protect my neighbors, their families, their pets, and that He would protect them from harm and evil. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">In addition, I ask that those neighbors who have yet to meet the King of Kings and do not know him as Lord and Savior would invite Him into their lives. Then I plead for the believers to enter into deeper more abiding relationships with their Creator. Including my own family and pets in the mix, of course! Can't forget my own household!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Well, out of the blue, these past couple of weeks, I have been praying the "...bless them indeed and enlarge their territories portion of the Jabez Prayer, only to discover, after repeating it however many times before that I couldn't remember it in its entirety. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Then, tonight, lol and behold, I was searching my bookcase for another book and found a barely used, mini-journal created to accompany the original <i>Prayer of Jabez</i> book by Bruce Wilkinson. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I think perhaps the Holy Spirit led me to it! (No perhaps about it)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I love the quote found on the page I opened the journal to, where it emphatically says: </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta;"><b><i><span style="font-size: large;">God's nature is to bless. </span></i></b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">How powerful is that? </span></span></b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not to punish</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not to blacklist</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not to bury</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not to abandon</span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not to destroy, ruin, or smite. </span></span></span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">But to bless! </span></span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">The next thing I knew I was penning this prayer:</span></span></span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Lord, may I be open and ready to receive and embrace your blessings, in whatever form they come in. And may my nature reflect yours more and more everyday. May I become a "bringer" of blessings NOT curses. In Jesus' Name, amen. </span></span></span></i></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Next, the sudden urge to post here, something I have been unfaithful about, overcame me. So...I was obedient. I'm not sure what the Lord's plans are for this post or this little prayer, but I know without doubt his words never return void. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I can't think of a better time in our world to live our lives as blessings to others, to become bringers of blessings, hope, and light where there is so much strife, hostility, and darkness. I hope you will join me on this journey of love. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Your Sister in Christ and Bringer of Blessings,</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Carol </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Please comment below to proclaim your commitment to become a Bringer of Blessings in the days ahead. I'd love to hear from you! </span></span><i><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></i></span> <br />
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-71328103931146062512018-07-15T18:13:00.000-07:002018-07-15T18:13:40.613-07:00LOVE at God's Table<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOVtT4p8bpiUjIN3qtnVMutdpmOwQPA7bATQpOZ89ls9vymR8X3DJKxrWOa3SPrGjFS0f4okUx6thxE1EXxf3rZ_BD08RnRBE0X_idZ3A5S8r7S57bS3HtJu2ny42cVm02mxHK-tDpdU/s1600/Dolores24.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="556" data-original-width="742" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheOVtT4p8bpiUjIN3qtnVMutdpmOwQPA7bATQpOZ89ls9vymR8X3DJKxrWOa3SPrGjFS0f4okUx6thxE1EXxf3rZ_BD08RnRBE0X_idZ3A5S8r7S57bS3HtJu2ny42cVm02mxHK-tDpdU/s400/Dolores24.PNG" width="400" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">With so much division and hatred in the world, and the U.S. in particular, Jesus' message of 'love your neighbor' has never been more applicable. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Logging onto Facebook or other social media platforms can feel like a mind field, where we're forced to tiptoe through comments and posts that continue to keep us divided. What ever happened to disagreeing without demoralizing the person with a counter opinion? People are ending friendships over opposite viewpoints. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I have chosen to stay out of the debates. And have been chastised for that as well. Apparently, I'm part of the problem if I don't engage in all the hostilities. There is a difference between burying your head in the sand and choosing not to dig yourself into a grave. Why bury myself in darkness and division when there is a better choice?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I want to be a light on the hill. Love in the midst of hatred. Kindness in places where people are feeling kicked to the curb for their beliefs. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">What can we do today, as Princess Warriors of the most High King? How about we put into practice those practical things that make a difference but are really quite simple, though not always easy to remember when we're walking through a mind field. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Kind words. A smile. Offering a helping hand. Reminding friends you love them and care. Keeping your own posts focused on the positive in our world. There are so many amazing stories of good deeds and being a good neighbor available if you look for them. The nightly news isn't the best place to find them. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I called a friend one night to ask how she was doing...what she was doing. Well, she was angry because she was watching the evening news and stewing over the injustices in the world, which there are many. I recommended she take a break from all the negativity and TURN OFF the news. It's one thing to be informed but another to find ourselves enslaved to dining on disaster and discouraging information. Some of us have been downright devouring the never-ending buffet of bad news. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">We may need to make a change to our 'diets'. What we feast on, affects our health. What we think on and ponder, can actually become obsessive thinking that thwarts progress and positivity, even enslaving us. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I want to challenge you too 'see' the amazing goodness and grace found at God's banquet table. Pull up a chair and leave the second-rate buffet behind. God's table offers blessing upon blessing, and there is always enough for everyone. </span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/dolores-develde/shop" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"> More amazing art by Delores Devlde available for purchase on her Fine Arts Page.</span></span></a>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-25147790533668295552018-05-26T02:06:00.000-07:002018-05-26T02:09:50.667-07:00Bring out the Gold: Shine for Jesus<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVhPu-vF85PTOcuuoFv7qPiPXj_qUwDqWohYa44tiW1My0lFOoKDyTL4yIk-59dXac8RogjOrqyXkNsr-rA3kMU_KzOGO_Oda0jevFvfxqMaZPPmCrwYVd2vruflJo5jcE4p6MUEIieo/s1600/Dolores25.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="559" data-original-width="738" height="302" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVhPu-vF85PTOcuuoFv7qPiPXj_qUwDqWohYa44tiW1My0lFOoKDyTL4yIk-59dXac8RogjOrqyXkNsr-rA3kMU_KzOGO_Oda0jevFvfxqMaZPPmCrwYVd2vruflJo5jcE4p6MUEIieo/s400/Dolores25.PNG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Before I dive into my post, I'd like to share the amazing art of <i><b><a href="https://fineartamerica.com/profiles/dolores-develde.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;">Delores Develde.</span> </a></b></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I will be showcasing her work with my posts as her art perfectly reveals God's love for us: His daughters; His brides; His princess warriors; His beloved; His children; His creations...</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I highly encourage you to visit her page at Fine Art America. Just click on her name above, and you will be transported to her incredible world of God-honoring creations. She shares the scripture references and thoughts behind most of her designs, which can be purchased on pillows, tote bags, mugs, wall hangings...and more. I am going to look into a T-shirt! How cool would that be? </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In case you can't read the print on this post's featured painting, it says: </span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Dear God, enlighten what is dark in me.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Strengthen what is weak in me.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Bind what is bruised in me.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Heal what is sick in me.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Bring out the gold in me.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>So I can shine for you.</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i>Amen</i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Delores has penned some powerful words to accompany her art work. Both the words and image, hit my heart, reminding me that I am to shine brightly, like gold, so those around me will be drawn out of the darkness and into His everlasting light. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">In order for our gold to shine the way it is intended to shine, it must be polished and clean, brilliant to look at, different from the dirty and fake metals that can be found scattered around our world, tempting us to settle for less than the best quality gold. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Less than real. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I remember the care my mom took with her 'special' sterling silverware. For her generation, owning a fine silverware set was a must. It was eventually passed down, becoming a treasured family heirloom, used only for the most noteworthy occasions. <i> </i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">When that velvet-lined box came out of the china cabinet, I knew at a young age good times were coming! Something out of the ordinary was about to happen. A holiday. Wedding. Birthday. Family members visiting. A Graduation. Occasions such as these warranted, perhaps even demanded, the use of her precious silver. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">But she never tossed it on the table 'as is.' Oh no! She would spread out the individual pieces, and one by one, she'd use some (magical to me) cleaning product to polish away any imperfections caused by tarnishing. Once she was satisfied that the standard for shininess had been met, then, and only then, would I be allowed to help her set the table. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I know. I'm talking about silver not gold, but the point I'm making works either way. Had she simply dumped the tarnished pieces on the table, they would have been no more special than what we used everyday. The guests of honor might not have felt honored at all, thus assuming the meal was like any other, nothing unique, nothing different from other meals they'd attended. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I suspect you know where I'm headed with this. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>Once Christ's blood has washed up (shined us up with His glory) we stand out. </b></i>We're brighter. Our light can pierce the darkest corners. Yet even after that first salvation experience, where Christ cleanses us with his grace, we still have to reach out and up to Him in order for that gold to flow in a way that differentiates us from the other lesser lights around us. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Yes, we're saved. Eternity is secured. We are blood bought and forgiven. <b><i>However, we are still in the midst of a battle</i></b>. Our enemy who thrives in the darkest shadows will do anything he can to make us feel dirty again. He wants us to believe we are tarnished and unworthy to be on 'the table.' </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not only does the devil work hard to keep us believing we are obscured by the shadows, we sometimes fall short; we sin. We mess up. We get stuck, pining over our past or fearing our future. We may even find ourselves imprisoned by a stronghold. Some of us have gone right out into a pig pen like the Prodigal Son and rolled around in the mud. Our godly gold becomes dimmer, and we begin to look more and more like that fake gold and filthy silver. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">But just as my mom so lovingly polished and brightened her precious silverware, there is hope that we too have someone who will help us shine again. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Our Lord does something far greater than my mom ever could, he renews our minds and turns our hearts of stone into hearts of flesh. When we cry out to Him, using words similar to the prayer above, He takes us lovingly into his care, cleaning and renewing us all over again. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i><b>His mercies are new every morning.</b></i> He can bring out the best in us, making our gold so bright those around us wonder why we shine the way we do. That gold (God's power and love in us) has the ability to push the enemy back where he belongs--into the darkness. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So sisters, what do you say? Is it time to ask God for a good polishing? Are you feeling tarnished? Has your God-light grown dim? If so, do not despair. God is but a prayer away, waiting to brighten you so you in turn will bless others. </span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Don't wait another second. He's waiting!</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>For at one time you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light.</i> Ephesians 5:8 ESV </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "georgia" , "times new roman" , serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may
see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.</span> </i>Mathew 5:16 ESV </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>That you may be blameless and innocent, children of God without blemish
in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation, among whom you shine
as lights in the world...</i>Philippians 2:15 ESV <i> </i> </span></span></div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-23713311363230747702018-04-30T14:26:00.000-07:002018-04-30T14:26:53.921-07:00Exciting News!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fQiTJhHizilwLjq89Tw6cKUUKhQBBr0yZ_YABMGgO2C-nCbg9ro3ISZi1NLEyyEkItTeifTorGGGa23vMGQTsu1lpoeBneEZgfL_V3H5ndLwFVgeh_fNEXBY7MBWZ1YnzzH70UDc35M/s1600/dreamstimefree_25114618promo1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fQiTJhHizilwLjq89Tw6cKUUKhQBBr0yZ_YABMGgO2C-nCbg9ro3ISZi1NLEyyEkItTeifTorGGGa23vMGQTsu1lpoeBneEZgfL_V3H5ndLwFVgeh_fNEXBY7MBWZ1YnzzH70UDc35M/s400/dreamstimefree_25114618promo1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I am excited to share that I will be releasing a new book soon. This story is a bit different from the other spiritual warfare, Soul Defenders' series. <b><i>Guardian Watchers</i></b> is more fantasy/speculative fiction/with a touch more romance. I think guys will still enjoy, but it is definitely a book women will relate too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">As with the Soul Defenders' books, the foundation is based on God's truth and has a great deal to do with trusting in Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Think of Abraham and Sarah. They got tired of waiting and attempted to use her servant to force God's promise for a child, pushing for the birth to take place in their time-frame not His. The results, as I'm sure you recall, ended up rather 'messy,' to say the least. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">God knows what He is doing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">When we try to interfere, imposing our will (as if we can actually do such a thing) on God's divine purpose, we will never come out ahead. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><i><b>Guardian Watchers</b></i> takes this theme to a whole new level. Let your imagination run wild!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">I promise I'll share more teasers and tidbits as the release date draws closer. The next step will be the big COVER REVEAL. I'll have some fun contests and other giveaway goodies down the road as well. </span><br />
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The third installment for the <i><b>Soul Defenders series</b></i>, subtitled <i><b>Cartel</b></i>, is on the table, as well as, the long overdue <i><b>Reign Real: Becoming a Princess Warrior for Chris</b></i>t (non-fiction). If you read my previous post, you will know why these projects are so delayed.<br />
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The book covers for <i><b>Soul Defenders: Cartel</b></i> and <i><b>Reign Real</b></i> have been revealed already, so take a peek!<br />
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<br />Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-26711851568820730212018-04-29T19:00:00.000-07:002018-04-29T19:01:43.237-07:00Stuck, Frozen, in Fear<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwYqpLdew68aquZTic1lXjoigqvfb7l-A-fRSrWnvYJiPOB0cjz833mknIBsTNFJbB1oPfFofY3HbjAuQThCWQrJtglMQpTNa0v1WCgWSZJGpS83UoKIaLZShF32EmkmPc2-Mq8o4Jts/s1600/305c5a457807ba421ed67495c93198d3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxwYqpLdew68aquZTic1lXjoigqvfb7l-A-fRSrWnvYJiPOB0cjz833mknIBsTNFJbB1oPfFofY3HbjAuQThCWQrJtglMQpTNa0v1WCgWSZJGpS83UoKIaLZShF32EmkmPc2-Mq8o4Jts/s400/305c5a457807ba421ed67495c93198d3.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Not the most appealing title for a blog post, I know. But I want to talk about an issue that has plagued me these past few years, more than I care to admit. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Three years ago, in March, my mother left earth for a new heavenly home. A great reason for celebration. At least that's what my 'head' said. I mean it's true. When we belong to Christ we have an eternal destination that will surpass our greatest imaginings. The Bible tells us so. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately, my heart wasn't in agreement with my head. My mom was my best friend. The last ten years of her life, she lived with me. As a single mom, she played a huge role in helping raise my two children, who are now almost 20 and 26. She was an incredible woman who gave far more than she ever received and never complained. I'm sure she received all the rewards she could ever want in the presence of our Savior. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Regardless of her heavenly happiness, I spiraled into a realm of depression, anxiety, and ultimately fear that froze me in place. I'd spent years speaking regularly at women's events and retreats, writing, blogging, serving in ministry leadership, and believed my foundation was firm. It wasn't near as firm as I thought.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Grief ignited something in me that was not pretty and it definitely wasn't from God. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I had trouble leaving the house. My mortality became terrifying as I watched more people I knew get sick or die. I've always known death was inevitable. And I had felt secure in my salvation, but for some reason, her death rocked my beliefs and the devil came striding into my life, spewing his hateful rhetoric and fueling my fear. Worse. I let him. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Instead of resisting his attacks, I rolled over and pulled the covers up over my head. Literally. As you probably are well aware, bed covers are no substitute for a godly set of armor. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My church attendance dwindled then died. My devotional time and Bible study became a rarity rather than a regular part of my day as it had been for so many years. I started struggling with my own health challenges, some serious. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Thankfully, God doesn't give up when we do. I'd still manage a short prayer most days, and as hard as I tried to hide there were people, friends who were persistent, perhaps even pushy in their pursuit of me and my healing. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Over the past year, I have slowly reclaimed my Princess Warrior identity. I've found a new church home that is perfect for me right now. I've started spending more time with other believers and am back in the Word on a regular basis. Do I still struggle with depression and anxiety? I am not going to lie. I do. But I continue to cry out, "Lord, help my unbelief." I've taken to saying the Lord's Prayer daily, savoring each portion of that prayer, trusting His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. The plan and purpose he had for me to help other women navigate life's numerous pitfalls has not changed. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have always wanted my writing, my ministry, and my life to encourage others who struggle. Believers who desire more of Jesus. People who know they're not perfect but who are passionate about change and want to live victoriously in a fallen world. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">These past few months I've discovered some wonderful Bible study companion books that helped me on my quest to find new freedom. I'd like to share them with you.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">1. <i>Happiness, </i>Randy Alcorn</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">2. <i>Unshakable Trust, </i>Joyce Meyer</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">3. <i>The Fearless Life, </i>Jentezen Franklin (I'd never heard of this author/pastor, found it four a couple of dollars on Christianbook.com </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">All the books provided plenty of scripture references and the first two had study workbooks available, which I purchased. I continue to use the prayers found in book three as starters when praying is difficult. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I was so ashamed of my depression and fears turned phobias that it was difficult to talk about. Of course, once I did, I learned like I always do, we're never alone in our feelings. We're here to love and lift each other up not to judge with ill intent and tear down. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">It is my hope that by revealing my fear fiascos it won't take you so long to reveal yours! </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is one of the prayers found in Franklin's little, power-packed book:</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><i>"Dear Jesus, forgive me for allowing my mind to be filled with fear. Help me to become a warrior instead of a worrier. I choose to obey Your commands and to go forward in courage even when I feel afraid. I say with David, 'What time I am afraid, I will trust.' I believe that will begin to see miracles in my life as I take Your Word and believe Your promises, declaring in the face of the enemy, 'It is written.' Thank you, Lord. Amen."</i> </span></span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-48320618064202995102018-03-30T13:26:00.000-07:002018-03-31T23:20:23.009-07:00A Good Friday-The Ultimate Soul DefenderPlease, take a moment to revisit an article I wrote for Campus Crusade for Christ a number of years ago. The message is never-changing because our Lord and Savior is never-changing. His plan of redemption is the same yesterday, today, and thankfully, forever.<br />
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<a href="https://powertochange.com/discover/faith/goodfriday/" target="_blank">Read about the ultimate Soul Defender this Good Friday.</a>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-85698839958681118832018-02-06T17:22:00.000-08:002018-02-12T12:48:30.699-08:00Did you know?<br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I have discovered something exciting that many of you may already be aware of. If you shop at all on Amazon, you can use their 'alternate' site, called <b>AmazonSmile. </b></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Since 2005, I have been honored to be a part of Bethany House's ministry in several capacities: as an employee, board member, and volunteer. Bethany House is a Christian program of healing and hope for single pregnant women and women with children who are in need of multiple support services. This ministry has touched literally generations since their conception in 1989. I invite you to take a peek at the amazing work they do, and then, if you are so inclined, when you shop on Amazon, simply 'switch' and use the AmazonSmile section. You can select any non-profit that is signed up to receive donations through the Smile program on Amazon. I, of course, hope you will choose Bethany House as one of your giving options!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>The AmazonSmile tagline is:</b> "You shop. Amazon gives." </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">What's really awesome? You don't pay <b>ANYTHING</b> extra. You just shop as you normally would and buy what you would normally buy, and then a portion of what you spend on your purchase goes to the non-profit of your choice. Cool, huh? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Again, I am providing the links and information for Bethany House, but there are thousands of organizations that could use our support. May God bless you as you bless others!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Click below and shop! </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://smile.amazon.com/ch/94-3030994" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Support Bethany House when you shop for your Valentine!</span></span></span></a><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Learn more about the Bethany House Program's mission of service: </span></span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Bethany-House-201883746521268/" target="_blank">Bethany House on Facebook</a></span></span></span><br />
<a href="http://bethanyhousenet.org/index.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> Bethany House's website</span></span></span></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span> </span></span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-51945934731040180432017-12-27T13:43:00.000-08:002017-12-27T13:43:06.222-08:00Never Forget Who You Belong To<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXb-EVIulrRpKWGCOY1Gc1l5oIhW33qOkGgk6o7zgeciZOtYQwD_m6feDQVcDJs94e-ZN9uCLTseBNZukeothx_EiWpviaMU4tOM9zsFNI1H8dl_530wd99JuazqTbejedn2EYZHGtCc/s1600/17796813_10210908175953301_5400235324252489308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="470" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfXb-EVIulrRpKWGCOY1Gc1l5oIhW33qOkGgk6o7zgeciZOtYQwD_m6feDQVcDJs94e-ZN9uCLTseBNZukeothx_EiWpviaMU4tOM9zsFNI1H8dl_530wd99JuazqTbejedn2EYZHGtCc/s400/17796813_10210908175953301_5400235324252489308_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Sometimes the enemy of our souls works extra hard to derail us, taunting and tormenting us with lies straight from the pit of his dwelling place -- hell. But we need not fear! Even when our days seem darker than dark, we have something to hold on to -- our Heavenly Father and the FACT <i><b>the TRUTH</b></i> that we are indeed His precious and powerful daughters. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Just remind the devil of where he's headed and who has won the battle. We have defeated him by the Blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. That's something to rejoice over. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So straighten your crown, tighten your amor, pick up that sword and shield and kick satan's you-know-what with God's Truth. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Revelation 12:10-11 </b></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span>And I heard a loud voice in heaven, saying: “Now have come the salvation
and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of His
Christ. For the accuser of our brothers has been thrown down, he who
accuses them day and night before our God. <span class="reftext">11</span><span class="highl"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/846.htm" title="846: autoi (PPro-NM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same.">They</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3528.htm" title="3528: enikesan (V-AIA-3P) -- To conquer, to be victorious, overcome, prevail, subdue.">have conquered</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-AM3S) -- He, she, it, they, them, same.">him</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- (a) genitive: through, throughout, by the instrumentality of, (b) accusative: through, on account of, by reason of, for the sake of, because of.">by</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: to (Art-ANS) -- The, the definite article.">the</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/129.htm" title="129: haima (N-ANS) -- Blood (especially as shed).">blood</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tou (Art-GNS) -- The, the definite article.">of the</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/721.htm" title="721: Arniou (N-GNS) -- (originally: a little lamb, but diminutive force was lost), a lamb.">Lamb</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely.">and</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/1223.htm" title="1223: dia (Prep) -- (a) genitive: through, throughout, by the instrumentality of, (b) accusative: through, on account of, by reason of, for the sake of, because of.">by</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: ton (Art-AMS) -- The, the definite article.">the</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3056.htm" title="3056: logon (N-AMS) -- A word, speech, divine utterance, analogy.">word</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3588.htm" title="3588: tes (Art-GFS) -- The, the definite article.">of</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-GM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same.">their</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/3141.htm" title="3141: martyrias (N-GFS) -- Witness, evidence, testimony, reputation.">testimony;</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/2532.htm" title="2532: kai (Conj) -- And, even, also, namely.">and</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/25.htm" title="25: egapesan (V-AIA-3P) -- To love, wish well to, take pleasure in, long for; denotes the love of reason, esteem.">they did not love</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/846.htm" title="846: auton (PPro-GM3P) -- He, she, it, they, them, same.">their</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/5590.htm" title="5590: psychen (N-AFS) -- (a) the vital breath, breath of life, (b) the human soul, (c) the soul as the seat of affections and will, (d) the self, (e) a human person, an individual.">lives</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/891.htm" title="891: achri (Prep) -- As far as, up to, until, during.">so as to shy away from</a> <a href="http://biblehub.com/greek/2288.htm" title="2288: thanatou (N-GMS) -- Death, physical or spiritual.">death.</a></span> </span></div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-54478924448806158962017-12-26T01:58:00.002-08:002017-12-27T13:44:33.931-08:00Merry Christmas and Happy 'almost' New Year<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjJ2i1CeTJQk4tBDmp2_gPAi556FZZS_JRdhcxfBvIjzdZPta5gkc3QkxyFPxqeiHDnCtgKrmMruHn5QuMihDVGM5l2osXt_R10AtceU2cwC-Zyp_iuu3EbxfCvpKpi4BWU20YHu-1IA/s1600/GOTI_series.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="678" height="157" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwjJ2i1CeTJQk4tBDmp2_gPAi556FZZS_JRdhcxfBvIjzdZPta5gkc3QkxyFPxqeiHDnCtgKrmMruHn5QuMihDVGM5l2osXt_R10AtceU2cwC-Zyp_iuu3EbxfCvpKpi4BWU20YHu-1IA/s320/GOTI_series.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Wow...this feels so strange, to say the least. It has been a long, <i>long</i>, <u><i><b>long</b></i></u> time since I have kept this blog updated.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> My mom became very ill and then passed away, sending me into a tailspin of grief, as she was my best friend and most avid supporter. So the past several years have been difficult; that's putting it mildly. Add on a few <i>major</i> health issues, family and financial challenges, and my faith was tested beyond what I believed I could bear. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Yet, here I am. Alive. Breathing. Living. Loving. Still a daughter of the King and His Princess Warrior. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I have allowed the enemy to beat up and bully me for far too long. I've had enough! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">These past months have been all about re-embracing my identity in Christ and His awesome plans for my life. It's time to get moving, shaking, and praying in a way that rocks this world. Are you ready to join me? Considering 2017 is reaching its conclusion and 2018 is waiting to replace its predecessor, this seems like the perfect time to re-launch and recommit my life to the calling God has for me -- helping other Princess Warriors become who God has destined them to be in Him. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Tonight I stumbled across an old article that I'd written about New Beginnings. I think its a good time to revisit what I wrote a number of years ago. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><a href="https://thelife.com/a-new-beginning" target="_blank">https://thelife.com/a-new-beginning</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">If you're a Daughter of the King...the best is always yet to come. Together we can accomplish so much! With God we can accomplish the impossible. Amen!</span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-34904065963992375082014-06-26T11:22:00.000-07:002014-06-26T11:22:25.564-07:00Soul Defenders: Jaden is here!<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Okay...so I haven't been blogging much (at all) since May, as promised. But, I have good reasons. A major kidney infection reaped havoc in my body (and life). And...better news, I finished up book two in the Soul Defenders series. It went live on Kindle yesterday. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">To celebrate, the first book Soul Defenders: The Black Orchids is FREE until Saturday. Here are the links to both. Happy Ready. I will update more. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Defenders-Carol-Van-Atta-ebook/dp/B00L9Y5RXQ/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1403726374&sr=1-2&keywords=soul+defenders" target="_blank">Soul Defenders: Jaden (Book Two) </a> </span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb28sW7CamalBtRgfTJsfw8kPbm3jcz1SuHwvH3dJ0pTH3SL6o1fPk5cCbuJcs-JYW8GtGGHsF2awBVZYriDCXKrRx3S1_AA-_uQca_D3gua1n-i56GWgGjTQ08HKGsUgqC9NBjzv-RRM/s1600/CVA-SD-Jaden-bk2-750x1125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb28sW7CamalBtRgfTJsfw8kPbm3jcz1SuHwvH3dJ0pTH3SL6o1fPk5cCbuJcs-JYW8GtGGHsF2awBVZYriDCXKrRx3S1_AA-_uQca_D3gua1n-i56GWgGjTQ08HKGsUgqC9NBjzv-RRM/s1600/CVA-SD-Jaden-bk2-750x1125.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Defenders-Carol-Van-Atta-ebook/dp/B00974IOLC/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1403806795&sr=1-1&keywords=soul+defenders" target="_blank">FREE Soul Defenders: The Black Orchids (book one)</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jPyPWYPf5Kr-oGZsls-k2i5YIqHQbCuBW_xkxhEAQJzwYQUBA9S3bK_CuLQtMH1_hyOv348tEheKr5Btub4FH5kOk421ulW8hmdhvTRjdzE_CW6fogNBLCYgR_rx-wkLvDqJBacgI-g/s1600/CVA-SD-BK1-750x1125.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_jPyPWYPf5Kr-oGZsls-k2i5YIqHQbCuBW_xkxhEAQJzwYQUBA9S3bK_CuLQtMH1_hyOv348tEheKr5Btub4FH5kOk421ulW8hmdhvTRjdzE_CW6fogNBLCYgR_rx-wkLvDqJBacgI-g/s1600/CVA-SD-BK1-750x1125.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<br />Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-65136599704180837852014-05-06T23:04:00.000-07:002014-05-06T23:04:02.918-07:00Staying Under The King's Care<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQBA6Jf7o5K-UnUI4OHRfhakviXCG6L_qvXSlCK9NV0iFYpSo-j4v-9Mv7boHA713kP-o9wa7I934pzvBgF-1nO-QRzTMH5TlnfHyO5oZoidBwLvwrXyFayPCq-SQCx06_RJZunfd4wQ/s1600/Woman+Warriors+web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwQBA6Jf7o5K-UnUI4OHRfhakviXCG6L_qvXSlCK9NV0iFYpSo-j4v-9Mv7boHA713kP-o9wa7I934pzvBgF-1nO-QRzTMH5TlnfHyO5oZoidBwLvwrXyFayPCq-SQCx06_RJZunfd4wQ/s1600/Woman+Warriors+web.jpg" height="400" width="307" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: white; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Do you ever wonder why some days are so much harder than others? Ever feel like you're floundering in a sea of indecision, making one poor choice after another? If so, you're not alone. Reigning Real is the most rewarding way to live, but at times, can be the most challenging. In order to win our daily battles we must remain UNDER HIS CARE ...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cfe2f3; font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://powertochange.com/experience/spiritual-growth/warfare/#comments" target="_blank">Learn more in my article, Under His Care (click to read)</a></b></span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-27798604016155612622014-04-13T23:35:00.000-07:002014-04-13T23:35:16.625-07:00Reign Real Now! Your Place is on a throne with a sword. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReonH40RTqqukMG0bEhEJ0fqYu8mu0B16hRmixHHXWCe6_fIO9axWrVmPPU_rPOQe0QYxYqMtYo49cUPHsPvFqLRhStWKKKnpr-oZnZhMJ1VOnX68AbYhU5-zxIeoNTRwqIJ7A3JAB2M/s1600/daughter-of-King.8x10_2.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjReonH40RTqqukMG0bEhEJ0fqYu8mu0B16hRmixHHXWCe6_fIO9axWrVmPPU_rPOQe0QYxYqMtYo49cUPHsPvFqLRhStWKKKnpr-oZnZhMJ1VOnX68AbYhU5-zxIeoNTRwqIJ7A3JAB2M/s1600/daughter-of-King.8x10_2.gif" height="400" width="320" /></a></div>
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I want to give credit to the amazing artist who created this, but I cannot find the name. </div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Greetings Princess Warriors! I didn’t
quite make my seven day posting commitment … but I am close. I’m hoping the
following teaser for my upcoming book: <i>Reign
Real: Becoming a Princes Warrior for Christ</i> makes up for my lapse! I’d be thrilled
to have your thoughts, suggestions, and comments, <i>and</i> I hope you take time to complete the activities at the end of
the chapter. I believe they will challenge you and draw you closer to the One
True King. <o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">(<u>Please note</u>: The “sidebar”
boxes will be on the sidebar in the actual book, not smack dab in the middle of
the text. So use your imagination!)</span><span style="font-size: medium;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Ding-dong!
Ding-dong! The doorbell chimed impatiently. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">With my
overflowing candy bowl in one hand and my Gospel tracts in the other, I
courageously opened the door to a crowd of dancing, hopping, and very noisy
costumed characters. A kitty-cat, Superman, Batman, and one, two, three…little
princesses squirmed anxiously, anticipating more tasty treats to add to their
already overflowing buckets, bags, and plastic pumpkins. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">“Mom, I wanted to
be a princess, too,” the incredibly cute kitty-cat whined at her mother who
hovered protectively nearby looking none too pleased by her daughter’s public
proclamation. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Considering the
manner in which Miss Kitty-cat was eyeing Disney Princess number three, I
thought a hiss and loud meow might be forthcoming. Thank goodness the animal
control truck was rounding up critters in another neighborhood! Hurriedly, I
handed out candy and the story of salvation to eager hands.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">“Thank you,” they
all chorused.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">As the group
scampered down the walkway, Kitty-cat stopped in front of Princess Three. “I
wanted your costume because I’m a princess, but my mom said I had to be a
kitten this year.” Her shoulders sagged with obvious regret.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">To my amazement,
the princess offered this fascinating explanation, “I wanted to be a ninja
warrior, but my mom said I was a little princess. You can have my crown if you
want.” Before her mom could protest, she dramatically removed her sparkling,
jeweled treasure and placed it on Kitty-cat’s head, just behind the
fuzzy-leopard ears. “There, now we’re both princesses, and I’m a warrior, too,”
she added, proudly.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">“Me, too.”
Princess number two agreed, nodding enthusiastically.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>Me too, </i>I
thought, still amazed by Princess Three’s generosity. A bit selfish at times,
I’m not sure I would have parted with such a prized possession. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Thankfully,
though, as a daughter of the King of Kings, and the Lord of Lords, I am
royalty, created to reign forever with my Lord. Just like the delightfully
dressed-up-princess, sometimes I reign with a wand and other times I brandish a
sword. Living as a Princess Warrior, seated on a Throne of God’s glory, isn’t
always easy, but it is the most rewarding and exciting position any woman could
possibly have. Really. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Not to mention
there are enough crowns for all God’s girls!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">So, if you dream
of becoming a princess — crown, gown, scepter, and all the royal trimmings — you’re
not alone. If you sometimes envision yourself lifting your royal ruffles to
launch a swift kick at an unrelenting enemy, or unsheathing your saber instead
of your scepter, keep reading.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Ladies, when you
belong to the Ultimate King of Heaven and Earth, you truly are a priceless
princess and a worthy warrior. Although the two titles may seem decidedly
incompatible, please, consider again. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Should you be
reading this book with hair rollers dangling from the very lochs they’re
supposed to curl, your mascara clumping on areas other than your lashes, and
un-matching socks with holes in the heels (don’t ask how I know about this
stuff) there is still a throne for you. The King says so!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Indeed much has
been written about understanding our position in Christ and how to fight the
good fight of faith. But, have we as women accurately embraced our inclusive
identity as both princess and warrior? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">If not, don’t
worry. You can join me as together we discover how to reign real in an
increasingly wicked world, accepting the thrones our Heavenly Father fashioned just
for us. And remember, in this Kingdom, women with ample behinds (that’s me),
messy hair (okay, me again), and a ton of imperfections (need I say more?) fit
perfectly on the thrones they've been given. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>A hallelujah
moment</i>: There’s no need to “get pretty,” lose weight, or visit the hair
salon before sitting on your throne, scepter and sword in hand. Jesus Christ
has taken care of all the details. It’s simply up to us to believe and hold on
to Him.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">And remember,
because of Jesus, we really can live happily ever after, not like a false,
fairytale princess, but as a godly warrior princess. Our happiness will not be
fully realized in this world or this lifetime, but by reigning real here and
now, we will reap riches and rewards beyond our wildest expectations in our
eternal Kingdom to come. After all, the Kingdom we belong to will always exist;
and not just in our childhood dreams, but forever and ever (that’s a long,
long, time) in the presence of God Almighty.</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the Lord
has chosen you to be his treasured possession.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"> Deuteronomy
14:2 NIV<b style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> </span></b></span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Chapter 1<o:p></o:p></span></span></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Are you a Princess Warrior? No not Zena!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="color: #ead1dc;">A Princess
called Caraboo<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Nearly two-hundred
years ago in a small English town, a princess appeared. Ta … da! This striking
beauty spoke an unrecognizable language, and was found dressed in exotic
attire. A number of concerned (a nice word for nosy) and fascinated people
attempted to decipher their mysterious visitor’s language, and the whereabouts
of her native homeland. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Unfortunately,
other than her highly unusual behavior that included sleeping on the floor
(ouch), refusing to eat meat, dining on pineapple (fine by me), swimming naked
(not fine by me), fencing, practicing archery, and praying to a god she called
Allah Tallah, no one knew who she really was, or, where she came from. She called herself, Caraboo, Princess
Caraboo. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Eventually, a
Portuguese sailor said he could translate her gibberish. A tale of intrigue
unraveled, revealing the exquisite foreigner was actually “Princess Caraboo”
and she had been captured by pirates who had kidnapped her from the <st1:placetype w:st="on">island</st1:placetype> of <st1:placename w:st="on">Javasu</st1:placename>
in the <st1:place w:st="on">Indian Ocean</st1:place>. Miraculously, Princess
Caraboo had somehow managed to escape her tormentors by throwing herself into
the channel and swimming ashore. (Is this girl for real?)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">For several
months, the lovely princess resided with a prominent and wealthy family who
flaunted her exotic royalty to the local bigwigs, only to discover later that
their infamous houseguest was actually a cobbler’s daughter named Mary Baker. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: Hiding doesn’t work! </i></b><i>In a game of hide
and seek even the best “hider” is eventually found. For whatever we do in the
dark eventually comes out in the light. So, why bother trying? <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Miss Baker had
created her own royal personage and a language derived from gypsy words and her
imagination. Following this untimely disclosure, Miss Baker continued her façade,
traveling to <st1:country-region w:st="on">Spain</st1:country-region>, <st1:country-region w:st="on">France</st1:country-region>, and ultimately back to <st1:country-region w:st="on">England</st1:country-region> when
her act finally proved unsuccessful. Many years later, after becoming a
“saleswoman” and selling leeches (the blood-sucking kind) to local hospitals,
she died as a lonely, old woman buried in an unmarked grave.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Mirror Mirror
on the Wall<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">After first
reading this tantalizing, and somewhat scandalous tale, I was intrigued (nosy),
shocked, and then somewhat depressed. <span style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: 0.5in;">Why would a
beautiful young woman go to such extreme lengths to “be” a princess? Why would
someone reinvent their whole identity?</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Instead of
allowing myself to pass judgment on this haunting figure, I took an extended
look in the mirror of my own life. </span></div>
<div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; line-height: 150%; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: </i></b><i>Shining the light of God’s truth in your
heart is like pointing your flashlight under a bed; you can no longer ignore
the dirt.</i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">There I discovered
what many of you already know ― sometimes, oftentimes, we don’t believe we are
worthy. We don’t believe we’re enough. We feel hopeless, helpless, hostile, and
even hateful. We fantasize about what our lives would be like <i>if only</i> we
had the perfect fulfilling career and lived in a luxurious castle, married to
the perfect prince, with a perfect nanny and servants to help us raise our
almost-perfect children. Did I forget the — <i>if only</i> I had the perfectly
sculpted, toned, tanned, figure without having to work for it and all would be
well syndrome? </span></div>
<div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; line-height: 150%; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: </i></b><i>If only: The two words that best
describe dissatisfaction. How often do you utter the terrible two? Tell the
truth, girls!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Some of us have
taken our own dissatisfaction a step further and determined to <i>become</i>
somebody different. In fact, as a young teenager, I had already survived
several years of relentless teasing from a group of girls on my swim team. I’m
not talking about a few unkind words here and there; rather, I was assaulted
with menacing words, not only by my female teammates, but by several team moms
as well. During this time, my vocabulary expanded with words that even a
seasoned sailor might find offensive. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Why this attack
started, I can only guess. I assume it was triggered by some sudden swimming
improvements on my side of the pool, and the fact that a previous
swimming-princess was dethroned, while I became the number one seated
ten-year-old. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">You’ve all read
about the “cheerleader mom syndrome,” right? Well, unfortunately, I’d become a
target of one such mother. As I entered my tender teenage years, I developed a
strong sense of dissatisfaction with who I was. So as I sought approval from
others who didn’t know me, I’d often change my name, my age, and behave in a
way that was not properly suited for a young girl of thirteen. Needless to say,
this “identity” led me down some paths I wish I’d never traveled.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">I remember later
in life, one brave therapist asked that I bring my photo albums to one of our
sessions. Although I found this request rather odd, I complied. As we carefully
explored the worn photos, page by page, something fascinating was revealed. The
therapist, looking closely at my sixth grade picture asked, “What happened at
this point in hour life?” (yes, I was ten) He went on to explain that my eyes
had changed. The twinkle was gone.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Are you with me,
ladies?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">That was the very
same time the swim team debacle had started. Hiding our pain isn’t as easy as
we might believe. That camera sure captured it. Our hearts sure feel it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Perhaps you haven’t
taken on a whole new identity like Princess Caraboo, or pretended to be someone
else as I did, but I suspect somewhere in the painful valleys of your life,
you, too, have sought a mask or two, or three … to hide behind. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Maybe we no longer
fit into those frilly princess costumes of days past, but with excruciating
efforts we can force ourselves to squeeze into identities not created for us.
Yet, why would we do such a thing when right now, this very moment, an eternal
King has unlimited royalty positions open, enough thrones to go around, and
heavenly real-estate priced at the all-time, rock-bottom, no-hidden-fees or
gimmicks price of ― free. Yes, free! </span></div>
<div style="border: solid windowtext 1.0pt; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-element: para-border-div; padding: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="border: none; line-height: 150%; mso-border-alt: solid windowtext .5pt; mso-padding-alt: 1.0pt 4.0pt 1.0pt 4.0pt; padding: 0in; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: </i></b><i>Put away that checkbook! Heavenly
real-estate prices and percentages never change. They are permanently secured
at zero. No hidden fees to pay, no annual percentage rate increases, no late
charges, ever. Jesus Christ covered the cost. With His life, He paid the price.
<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Ladies, when we
accept Jesus Christ as our Savior and Heavenly King, we wear the robes of
royalty. Our whole identity changes for the better. Not only do we finally find
a real prince charming, but we also become destiny-filled, priceless princesses
and worthy warriors who are able to reign real from thrones of grace. Hope is
restored, and God redeems us and sets us free … indeed.</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>It is for <b>freedom</b> that Christ has set us free. </i>Galatians
5:1a NIV</span></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the
Lord is, there is <b>freedom</b>. </i>2 Corinthians 3:17</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Xena, Xena,
she’s not our gal<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Before we go any
further, we’ve got to talk about you know who — Xena “warrior princess.”
Gorgeous brunette, curvy figure, leather attire, and an array of skin-slicing
weapons with an unforgettable battle cry, yep, that’s the one. Please, don’t
try the battle cry; it hurts. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">I know; I
shouldn’t have brought it up. So, if you’re curious (I can practically hear you
begging me for more information about that notorious screech) go to handy dandy
YouTube and do a Xena search. Just type in “Xena war cry.” After you’ve
screamed like a banshee once or twice, hurry back to this page. Don’t tarry! </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Now that you’ve
returned, erase her image from your mind, most of it anyway. Certainly, we can
find some parallels to our royal cause, but, quite frankly, a majority of the
time, this captivating heroine stayed stuck in the warrior mode, and like
Princess Caraboo, she was worshipping the wrong entity — herself. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">For those of you
who don’t know, <i>Xena Warrior Princess </i>was an American television series
airing from 1995 to 2001. The show continues to have a cult-like following and
anxious fans eagerly await Xena’s reappearance on the Big Screen someday. Like <i>Star
Trek’s </i>infamous “to boldly go where no man has gone before” opening, the
Xena voiceover proudly proclaimed its own unique message: “In a time of
ancient gods, warlords and kings...A land in turmoil cried out for a hero. She
was Xena, a mighty princess forged in the heat of battle. The power...the
passion...the danger...Her courage will change the world.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Ah … can you sense the excitement, the danger, the
adventure? Surely there were some defining moments as Xena fought to overcome
her hateful and dark past. I’m certain many of you can somehow relate to <i>that
</i>process. However, Xena went about it all wrong. Her mission, to save
so-called “innocents” from harm and redeem herself sounds noble, but it’s a
lost cause. She bravely fought a long list of villains during the show’s 134
episode run (not to mention her appearances on <i>Hercules</i>) in an attempt
to find the redemption she so desperately desired — redemption she could never
earn.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: </i></b><i>A sexy, leather-clad Xena may be worthy
of a theme song, but it doesn’t make her deserving of a Throne. Real royalty is
lifted from the ashes of sin and born again by the grace and glory of God. </i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Ladies, we cannot liberate ourselves. No one, not even
Warrior Princess – Xena can perform enough harrowing rescues or good deeds to
obtain salvation. No matter how many toilets we scrub, noses we wipe, business
meetings we attend, church committees we’re on, no matter what we “do,” we will
never measure up … without God’s grace. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">This book isn’t about powering through life in thigh-high
boots, with a baby on one hip and a sword strapped to the other. Although, that
makes an interesting picture, it doesn’t make sense, nor is it God’s desire. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Rather, in the following chapters we will discover what a
godly, princess warrior does from her throne and the protocol that allows her
live faithfully as her King’s daughter. I think you’ll be surprised to discover
she spends a great deal of time helping others find their thrones, while
eliminating those things that try to topple her from her own. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><i>Royal Decree</i></b>:
The position of Princess Warrior is open to every woman who believes and
belongs to Jesus Christ. If you have not yet accepted His gift of eternal life,
please, don’t wait another moment. For we are not snooty princesses or ruthless
warriors, we are the real deal, and reigning real only makes sense when you’ve
been crowned as part of His royal court, God’s family. Dear sister, your throne
waits … <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b><u>Sidebar
box</u>: <i>Royal Reminder: </i></b><i>All of Heaven applauds your decision to
wear the Crown of Christ. Go ahead girlfriend … put it on!</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Right now, I’d
like to pray for you.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"> <i>Dear Heavenly Father, my mighty King and
valiant Savior, I ask that you reach deep into the heart of my sister. As she
reads this prayer and the words from Your love letters, the Holy Bible, may she
find hope for her situation, and may she drink from Your living water in order
never to thirst again. Allow her to see Your truth and the amazing fact that
You died a horrible death on a filthy Roman cross to save her. Had it been only
her, You still would have died to set her free from sin and death. Give her the
courage to reach for You, Jesus. May she ask for your healing, forgiveness, and
grace. In Your name, Jesus, we pray, amen.</i> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">If you already
belong to the King, hallelujah! I’d like to invite you also to pray the above
prayer, inserting the name of any friend, coworker, or family member that does
not yet know the King of Kings. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">From the
King’s Desk…God’s Love Letters to His Princess Warriors:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">I will call upon the Lord, Who is to be praised; so shall
I be saved from my enemies. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">Psalm 18:3 Amplified Bible</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>Jesus
is "the stone you masons threw out, which is now the cornerstone.
Salvation comes no other way; no other name has been or will be given to us by
which we can be saved, only this one." </i>Acts 4:11-12 The Message</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">God
saved you by his special favor when you believed. And you can't take credit for
this; it is a gift from God. Salvation is not a reward for the good things we
have done, so none of us can boast about it.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i> </i>Ephesians 2:8-9 NLT</span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><i>That
if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine
heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div align="center" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;"> Romans 12:9
KJV<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<b><i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">From the pen
of a princess:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="color: #ead1dc;">At the end of each
chapter, you will find several questions or activities specifically designed to
help you further embrace God’s truths and will for your life. Take time to
explore and share what you are learning. Feel free to use these activities for
small group discussion.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->When you were a little girl, did you want to be
a princess, or envision yourself as a warrior? If so, please explain.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 1.0in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 1.0in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Was there a time in your life when you, like
Princess Caraboo, pretended to be someone else? What circumstances or feelings
led you to take on a different identity? What type of “masks” have you hidden behind? </span></div>
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</span></span><!--[endif]-->What about Xena? Is there anything about her
that you find appealing? If so, what? and why? If not, please explain. <b><i><o:p></o:p></i></b></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Timeless
Truth:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;">God loves His
daughters with an everlasting, unceasing love. As a Princess Warrior there is
no need to hide your face, ever, for you are free indeed.</span></div>
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<b><i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Enter His
Throne Room and Bring your Blunders:<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;">All right girls, now
is the time to lay it on the line, to air the dirty laundry, to take out the
trash. Are you ready? A key to reigning effectively is the ability to confess
our sins to God and one another. I call it “telling on myself.” When we keep
secrets we become weighted down. One popular cliché states that we’re only as
sick as our secrets. So … let’s lighten our load and stay spiritually fit.</span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="color: #ead1dc;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-style: italic; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt; line-height: normal;">
</span></span><!--[endif]-->Share at least one way that you have acted phony
or fake in relation to others this past week. For example, have you been
dishonest, devious? Do you pretend to agree when you really disagree? Are you
pretending to be okay when you’re really not?
Let’s check our honesty levels, ladies. The truth will set us free.<i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Dear Holy King,<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<br />
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<i><span style="color: #ead1dc;">Thank you for
loving me with an everlasting love. Your grace is truly amazing. Thank you for
Your compassion, for You pursued me with love even when I tried to hide from
You. Today, in this moment, I choose to lay aside any dishonest statements,
actions, false identities, or useless masks, and instead put on the robes of
royalty, a heavenly crown, and the powerful armor You have provided so
generously for me. You have saved me from the law of sin and death. I am
willing to serve You and reign real in this world, helping others see Your love
shining through me. May I be Your light in the darkness, Your voice in the
desert, and Your hope for the hopeless. I love You, my King, Jesus. Amen.</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<span style="color: #ead1dc;"><b>Thank you for taking time to read the introduction and first Chapter in my upcoming book. Again, I welcome (would love to have) your feedback. This book is for you. I will be posting chapters two and three as well. I hope God spoke to you and touched you in some small (or big, mighty) way. Blessings to you, my sister in Christ. You are indeed a Daughter of the King.</b></span></div>
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-26229422400068819962014-04-04T12:07:00.001-07:002014-04-05T03:56:35.034-07:00It's Time to Begin Anew<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: small;">Precious Princess Warriors, it has been a very challenging couple of years. My mom was diagnosed with Parkinson's and Lewy Body Dementia. We did everything possible to keep her in our home. However, eventually, due to her obsessive need to go out the front door, and I mean obsessive, we made the heart wrenching decision to transfer to a nearby memory care program. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">She is doing as well as can be expected. In addition, I lost my "day job" of six years, and struggled with chronic pain and exhaustion related to Fibromyalgia. Let's just say it's been a tough two years that have challenged my faith, my warrior heart, and my desire to serve. I discovered the desolation of desert living and spent time wandering in circles, stuck in my pain, and lost in questioning thoughts.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I did very little ministry outreach, and spoke only at events where the planners found me, no longer reaching out to 'promote' my ministry or offer my services. But little by little, as I clung to my Princess Warrior identity, and who God was, is, and always will be, I began to smile again. He is always good regardless of our circumstances. He works together for our good even through tragedy. He loves us despite our mistrust and misgivings. He forgives and forgets our transgressions. He gives us hope for better tomorrows. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">My better tomorrow's have come. I believe that and hang onto that statement through the trials and tribulations that are part of everyone's life on this fallen planet. Until we celebrate together in our heavenly home, tears will continue to be a very real part of our lives, but so will smiles, laughter, and times of joy. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If you're new, I'd like to welcome your to my website/blog, if you've stopped by before, welcome back. Here we reign real. We lay it on the line. We're women who love God in all our imperfections and weaknesses. Together we learn to depend on our King, and support one another with his love, encouraging all women to embrace their identities as His Royal Daughters. I'm back. I'm speaking. Sharing. Praying. And ready to once again encourage you. I hope if you've visited over the past two years you have enjoyed your times here and have been touched and moved to draw closer to Jesus through my older posts. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Now it's time for the new. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I am committing to share with you at a minimum of once a week, likely more. But learning not to over commit is just one of my recent lessons. So I'll start small and dream big! I will also be updating the sections on the site that were left empty and waiting. And I encourage you to share you prayer requests, encouragements, lessons, and comments on the "prayer page." </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">I'm expecting God to move in BIG Ways as we come together, as His Princess Warriors. I'm finally working on the book that was waiting for me to finish. I'll leave you with the cover art. I hope it inspires you and reminds you of His beauty. I can't give you a release date just yet, but it is coming. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Remembers, sisters, with Him and through Him, all things are possible. </span><br />
<br />
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-26514588259781500392012-12-27T00:05:00.000-08:002012-12-27T00:05:26.563-08:00New Year: New Choices. (Choose Patience)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Paving the Road with
Patience: Living in the Light<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">A
patient man has great understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Proverbs
14:29<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">I could barely see
beyond my rain-splattered windshield. Thankfully, I managed, with the wipers on
high speed, to locate my exit. Letting out a sigh of relief, I prepared for the
final leg of my journey home following a long day at work </span><span style="font-family: "Blackadder ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">—</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> a stressful day </span><span style="font-family: "Blackadder ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">—</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> to put it mildly. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> Just
as I merged onto the off ramp, another vehicle sped by, cut in front of me, and
headed up the ramp, only to slam on his brakes and skid to a stop before
redirecting his car back onto the freeway. To make matters worse, he performed
a certain, unacceptable hand “gesture” as he raced away into the stormy night. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;"> Shocked,
and more than a little dismayed, I analyzed my choices: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">1.
I could tear off and follow him in a radical display of road rage. <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">2.
I could yell not-so-nice things about him the rest of the way home. <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">3.
I could choose to pray and behave in a patient and kind manner regardless of
the fact that no one was watching. <o:p></o:p></span></span></i></div>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Honestly, I started
with number two before remembering that I did indeed have an audience </span><span style="font-family: "Blackadder ITC"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman";">—</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> of One. This
particular “audience” was the One that mattered most. My Savior had a front row
seat to my actions. He could hear my words. He knew my heart. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">I realized right then that
ranting and raving in my car, at a driver already a mile down the road, was just
plain foolish. I could follow my Lord’s example or act as ridiculous as the
stranger I was angry with had. Thankfully, I stopped my fuming and instead
prayed for God to protect this person as he drove away so recklessly, and, in
the end, I made it home in one piece with a sense of peace that comes from
exercising patience. Patience is possible. Remember, no matter what the
circumstance — practice patience and experience peace. We’re foolish not to!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Prayer:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;">
Dear Lord, Your Word instructs me to avoid folly, instead making wise decisions
in my daily life. One wise choice that will help me avoid foolishness is
practicing patience. It may not be easy, but with Your help, it is possible. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Action
Step: </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #d5a6bd;">Take a moment to remember the last time you lost
your patience and the choice resulted in foolish actions or words on your part.
What could you have done differently? Commit to choosing wisely when future
opportunities arise. </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-38208223822884240422012-12-09T18:20:00.000-08:002012-12-09T18:20:53.479-08:00NOT AGAIN! <br />
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<h2>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: x-large;"><i>Not Again!</i></span></b></h2>
<h3>
<b><span style="color: #ffe599;">(An Article I penned in 2004 just seemed appropriate to share today when so many people I know and work with struggle with the "not again" syndrome. Myself included. Thankfully, we have hope)</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“Oops, I did it
again…” the teen-theme song blared from my neighbor’s boom box as the fourteen-something,
belly-baring-girl shimmied around her mom’s car, soap dripping from the sponge
turned microphone in her hand. I didn’t
know car washing could be such an event!
But the lyrics of this seemingly mindless melody caught my
attention. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Sadly, in my
before-Christ and even my after-Christ life, I had danced to the beat of that
same theme song. I’d find myself saying,
“How could I be so stupid? Why, God, why
did I do <i>this </i>again?” Well, the answer, although simple, is not
always easily understood, and breaking free from the I-messed-up-again-cycle
can seem like a daunting task without the right steps to follow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I learned the why
was fairly obvious – because I am human, and I have fallen short of the glory
of God. When Adam and Eve sunk their
pearly whites into that luscious fruit, we, the people of today, were deeply
affected. In fact, throughout history,
the mantra “I did it again” has been repeated more than a few times, by more
than a few people. Every time I eat that
second serving of dinner (or third) that I promised myself, and God, I would
avoid, I repeat that age-old mantra.
When I used to be involved with drugs and destructive relationships, I’d
continually beat myself with the “not again, not again, not again…” club, which
I had grown very accustomed to swinging.
Stopping seemed like some elusive ideal, achievable only by those super
spiritual individuals who lived in isolation, far away from the wear and tear
of daily life in a mixed up, torn up world.
However, as I have gotten to know my Savior and His Word on a deeper
level, I have discovered we truly can start singing a new song—a song of hope,
redemption, and love.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thankfully, we
serve a God of second, third, and even three hundred chances. In fact, most of our biblical ancestors
messed up really bad (I mean <i>bad</i>) and
they were still able to find forgiveness and a new hope in their Lord when they
were truly repentant and sought His Way.
I’m certainly not implying their personal consequences vanished, or all
godly correction was avoided, but they did find forgiveness and grace to continue
on and influence us for the better, today.
</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Paul’s famous
words explain that our internal battles are not only expected, but with God
they can be corrected, and even conquered.
Romans 7: 14-15 (NIV) states -- <i>We
know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to
sin. I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I
hate, I do. </i>Now granted, we can gain
a sense of comfort in these words just by the knowledge that the great Apostle
Paul struggled, too. However, left with these
words alone, we’d still be stuck in our “not again” syndrome. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Thankfully, Paul
doesn’t stop there. In Romans Chapter 8
(NIV) he reminds us, <i>Therefore, there is
now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ
Jesus the law of the spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The good news –
there is a solution. In our relationship
with Jesus, we can find freedom from this vicious cycle of sin. Utilizing the “<b>Three R’s</b>” we will discover no matter what our mess might be we
serve a God who is in the transformation business. He doesn’t just leave us stuck in the muck of
our mistakes. Our incredible God can and
does take those ugly, messy, mishaps and somehow finds a way to turn these
experiences into calling cards that highlight His goodness and glory.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">First, we must <b>Recognize</b> our mistakes. If we don’t remove our rose-colored glasses
and take an honest appraisal of our mess, or possibly multiple messes, we will
remain rolling in the mud of our sinfulness.
God doesn’t cleanse us when we stand cockily, with our hands on our
hips, shouting heavenward about how we don’t need His help…thank you very
much. Recognizing and accepting that we
have made a big, smelly mess is the first step out of the darkness of
denial. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Have you ever
noticed when someone makes a mistake, often times he or she starts blaming
anyone and everyone but him or herself?
The old “he said, she said” fault finding madness begins. As a former vocational counselor, who worked
in a drug and alcohol treatment setting, I witnessed this phenomenon on a
daily, actually hourly basis. The story
goes like this: The client enters my
office and shares they relapsed and used drugs, again. Then, instead of saying, “Hey, I made a
mistake.” The list of whose fault it was
is rolled out in front of me for examination.
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The dog died.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My shoelace broke.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was angry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I was sad.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">They hurt me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I hurt them.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">They made me.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I couldn’t help
myself.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yes, life happens
and life hurts. However, just like Eve
had a choice in the garden, we have a choice today. Life is so much easier, and freedom is attainable
when we simply start off by recognizing we have made a mistake and created a
mess. When we do this we open the door
to the clean-up-step. The Second “R”
stands for <b>Repent and Release.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Once we recognize
that we have fallen short of God’s best, and fully understand the choice was
ours, we can confess and turn from our mistaken ways. I have a friend who described mercy to a
group of school age children with the following story. She explained one way to understand God’s
grace and mercy was to picture Him working away in a humungous kitchen. Every morning, He welcomes His children, us,
around a magnificent table. Here, He
dishes out a fresh batch of mercy that He whipped up for the new day. After all, God’s mercies are fresh every
morning. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When we repent,
and release our sins into His capable hands, we can expect to be fed a fresh
batch of grace and mercy prepared specifically for us. We no longer have to wallow in our mess. Just as the Prodigal Son rose from the filth
of the pig pen to return to his father, we must recognize we are in the mud,
climb out, and release our sin and heartache to our loving Father. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Finally, like the
robe was draped around the returning prodigal, our Heavenly Father wraps His
love around us. The third “R,” God’s <b>renewing</b> power, revives and
revitalizes. This is the step, where God
steps in, takes over, and does His incredible work in our lives. Scripture compares our Lord as to a Potter is
to his clay, a Vinedresser to his vineyard, a Silversmith to his precious
metals, a Father to his child, even as a mother hen is to her chicks. In other words, He is now at work restoring
and renewing his creation – us.
Although, this restoration and renewal process may be painful at times,
we can expect the end result to be beyond our wildest expectations. Just as a designer carefully draws his plans
to restore an old, dilapidated house, and as the builder makes changes on the
outer structure, and the remodeling specialist enters and works on the inside
of the home, our God is at work on, around, and in us. This particular Designer, Builder, and
Restorer has our best interest in mind, always. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Instead of saying –
<i>oops, I did it again -- </i>when we sin,
we can quickly <b>recognize</b> our
mistake, <b>repent and release</b> it to
God, and expect Him to <b>renew</b> us once
more. No mess is too dirty. No sin is too ugly. Nothing is too difficult for our Lord. He
takes on the toughest projects and is able to complete them all using His
perfect design plans. No matter how
messy our lives may be, or how many times God has started to clean up our
“insides,” no matter how many times we have cried out… “Not again!” God still loves us with an everlasting,
unceasing, and eternal love. The best way to avoid messy mistakes in the
first place is to stay close to our First Love -- Jesus Christ. When we begin to understand the depth of His
love, life will never be the same again.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-indent: .5in;">
<br /></div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-8220269549447621242012-11-05T03:06:00.000-08:002012-11-05T03:06:11.497-08:00What's New: Prayer Requests<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QUog9etBkdHOGUVUV1h9eA2BVQ_IG62rcQ6jguMMCBUDDroVpQQWpzDpuPjoUFRmjHxI_dDSRS649tGf9JHadjJKa8y59rSljmVmmxXEj4Etdh7HURgqN7WUEH4mGAXaapkEHYllVBc/s1600/3283570lpzjloo87n.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5QUog9etBkdHOGUVUV1h9eA2BVQ_IG62rcQ6jguMMCBUDDroVpQQWpzDpuPjoUFRmjHxI_dDSRS649tGf9JHadjJKa8y59rSljmVmmxXEj4Etdh7HURgqN7WUEH4mGAXaapkEHYllVBc/s400/3283570lpzjloo87n.gif" width="397" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">My blog is going to be expanding in the days and weeks ahead. It will become more like a website. The blog page will remain with inspirational and encouraging articles, and include news and and updates from time to time. That will continue to be the main focus. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In addition, there will be information about my ministry and speaking, and my writing ventures and books. Right now, if you click on the new buttons below the page heading (which has also been updated) you'll see that nothing amazing has been added. I'm simply laying the foundation for what's to come. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However the one page that is now open and active is the <b>PRAYER REQUEST PAGE. Please post your prayer requests by using the comment sections. </b>Respond to prayer requests, with prayer and encouragement. I will monitor everything before it goes live, keeping any unfriendly comments away. This is a safe site. Your prayers and thoughts are precious and valued. If you respond to a prayer request, your comment should be uplifting, encouraging, and include a prayer. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Or ... check the prayer request page, and pray. There is no need to comment if you don't want to. I will put up the first prayer and break in the new page. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Remember the best way to fight and win our battles, is on our knees in prayer.</b> Amen!</span></h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-20095903908113965242012-11-05T02:34:00.000-08:002012-11-05T02:41:19.079-08:00Win a copy of Soul Defenders!<div id="goodreadsGiveawayWidget36777"><!-- Show static html as a placeholder in case js is not enabled -->
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<h2 style="margin: 0 0 10px !important; padding: 0 !important; font-style: italic; font-size: 20px; line-height: 20px; font-weight: normal; text-align: center; color: #555;">
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com" target="_new">Goodreads</a> Book Giveaway
</h2>
<div style="float: left;">
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16039648"><img alt="Soul Defenders by Carol Van Atta" src="http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1348903678l/16039648.jpg" title="Soul Defenders by Carol Van Atta" width="100" /></a>
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<h3 style="margin: 0; padding: 0; font-size: 16px; line-height: 20px; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal;">
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16039648">Soul Defenders</a>
</h3>
<h4 style="margin: 0 0 10px; padding: 0; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal;">
by <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1237874.Carol_Van_Atta" style="text-decoration: none;">Carol Van Atta</a>
</h4>
<div class="giveaway_details">
<p>
Giveaway ends December 11, 2012.
</p>
<p>
See the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/36777" style="text-decoration: none;">giveaway details</a>
at Goodreads.
</p>
</div>
</div>
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/enter_choose_address/36777" class="goodreadsGiveawayWidgetEnterLink">Enter to win</a>
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</div><script src="http://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/widget/36777" type="text/javascript" charset="utf-8"></script>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-46969348815306202332012-10-21T18:04:00.000-07:002012-10-21T18:06:50.266-07:00Put on the Armour of God (prayer format)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDbFdZSo4qr3Yal7ZIhrF_svkW7YTsJ-JXO9t_aSzcmbg95H6GJyEnDfkGJVyFDW6C-c0eqYnq-tPE5jEp0ebqib_CJf0TuR3KPdqYf8DI9cvMcftY0WEZCbUwc9JHviZWvaWYjY3iJI/s1600/armor_of_god_by_madmindinc-d3ganjt+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJDbFdZSo4qr3Yal7ZIhrF_svkW7YTsJ-JXO9t_aSzcmbg95H6GJyEnDfkGJVyFDW6C-c0eqYnq-tPE5jEp0ebqib_CJf0TuR3KPdqYf8DI9cvMcftY0WEZCbUwc9JHviZWvaWYjY3iJI/s400/armor_of_god_by_madmindinc-d3ganjt+(1).jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: "DellaRobbia BT","serif"; font-size: x-large;">Putting on the Armor
of God Prayer</span></b></h2>
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<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Dear Lord, I come before you today
to put on the spiritual armor that You have so generously provided for your
Princess Warriors, and that means me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">First, I put on the <b><i>Belt of Truth</i></b>,
buckled securely around my waist, for it is Your truth that sets me free. I
then put on the<b><i> Breastplate of Righteousness</i></b> that covers my heart and emotions
and shows I am in right standing with You. My <i><b>feet are shod in the
preparation of the Gospel of Peace</b></i>, and I take those feet and tread on serpents and scorpions, while bringing peace
and love, not anger and discord wherever I may travel this day. I firmly take hold of the <i><b>Shield
of Faith,</b></i> and use it to quench every fiery arrow the devil may fire at me,
and I take the <i><b>Sword of the Spirit</b></i>, which is Your precious and powerful
Word, and I use it to pierce through the enemy’s wicked plans. For Your Word
states, all I must do is submit myself to You, Lord, and tell the devil to
flee, and he must go. So, be gone. devil, in the <b>NAME OF JESUS</b>! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I choose to
follow my Heavenly King this day. May I serve You with joy and perseverance,
living boldly and lovingly as Your Princess Warrior. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, I
pray, Amen. </span><span style="font-family: DellaRobbia BT, serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcu-xiJV0knZ2FzLCyxjLQcZ6WWVV4Va5oF4mQcKAvJJr6EQP9Ht3PCFHtyhkQc_EmAvWXdr9ZIof2JDpEDHVd9lcNBh9qdAYNJM6e_K7pSd82vCKotQH0AHnw7_EwiX3v2qr9b6ISUE/s1600/armor-of-god4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="220" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOcu-xiJV0knZ2FzLCyxjLQcZ6WWVV4Va5oF4mQcKAvJJr6EQP9Ht3PCFHtyhkQc_EmAvWXdr9ZIof2JDpEDHVd9lcNBh9qdAYNJM6e_K7pSd82vCKotQH0AHnw7_EwiX3v2qr9b6ISUE/s320/armor-of-god4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-14963311724828846322012-09-21T00:27:00.000-07:002012-09-21T00:27:29.035-07:00When in Doubt ... Look Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmm5xW163_BqwxA6Ri3yZBzamirxvzPZOLjJtcw8jVQMMtIaXkECoTNAWpbfWewS8NfAvEmARCkGHqhZxWUojktpJHPAF2L5lw8OcYYrb_Zoxit-Tnuc0L8YjNj5cj14RYchJZtNvBcI/s1600/heaven+moon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVmm5xW163_BqwxA6Ri3yZBzamirxvzPZOLjJtcw8jVQMMtIaXkECoTNAWpbfWewS8NfAvEmARCkGHqhZxWUojktpJHPAF2L5lw8OcYYrb_Zoxit-Tnuc0L8YjNj5cj14RYchJZtNvBcI/s640/heaven+moon.JPG" width="366" /></a></div>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Friends, I think we all know Thomas isn't the only one who ever doubted Jesus. </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">If I asked you, right now, to raise your hand and confirm you've had doubts, would yours join mine in the air?</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><span style="color: #6fa8dc;"> I'm guessing, if we were all honest, every arm would be stretching skyward; because at one time or another, every one of us has doubted either God's existence or something He promised or said in His Word.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I know there have been times when I believed what God promised in relation to you, but doubted whatever it was applied to me. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Even worse, there have been moments when I was crushed by despair, moments that had me questioning our King's existence. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When this happens, as it inevitably will from time to time, looking up proves to be the best answer for me.</span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">And I don't mean ONLY looking up, but also: Looking out, looking around, looking over there, over here, and in the pages of The Word or an inspirational tale of triumph, ultimately looking away from my own situation to the great beyond where God is visible to my hurting heart. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There's just something about a starlit sky, crashing waves, and towering fir trees that inspire me to believe in my Creator. A newborn's face, a kitten's paw, and a swaying palm tree are all evidence of His majesty and unfathomable creativity. Seeing His creations has a way of renewing and refreshing my wonder. Wonder tends to lead to worship, and worship inevitably draws me closer to my King. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Remember, we serve a King who wants to be found, who desires a deep and intimate relationship with all who reside in His kingdom. A King who is willing to show the palms of his hands and the hole in His side to one doubting Thomas is a King who understands our tendencies toward unbelief and uncertainty. He loves us no less for our questioning. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Are you in a place in your life where God seems distant? a place where He doesn't feel real? I promise, He's there, He's here, and He is (forgive the cliche') everywhere. His love for you is painted across the night sky, growing in your garden, visible in a baby's smile and living in your heart. Just look for Him. He won't run away or hide. He wants to be found. </span><br />
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #6fa8dc; font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b><u>Practical Princess Warrior Tip</u></b>: Some days the best we can do is say: "Lord, I love you; help my unbelief. Lord, I love you; help my unbelief. Lord, I love you; help my unbelief."<br />Though we can't touch his side the way Thomas did, ultimately, He will find the just right ways to touch our hearts, leaving no doubt who loves us most. </span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-73284255684108762322012-09-16T23:06:00.001-07:002012-09-16T23:06:22.536-07:00Articles to Inspire<br />
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<b style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: #3d85c6;">Yay ... I finally found a link to all my older articles that were written over the years for various Campus Crusade for Christ publications. Click here to link to articles on a wide range of topics pertinent to Princess Warriors. </span></b></div>
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<a href="http://powertochange.com/blogposts/author/cvanatta/"><b>http://powertochange.com/blogposts/author/cvanatta/</b></a></h4>
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-25154613134484785702012-09-15T00:12:00.001-07:002012-09-15T00:17:31.655-07:00Soul Defenders: Now Available in Paperback!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I am so pleased (thrilled) to announce that <b><i>Soul Defenders</i></b> is now available in paperback. I'll share the link in a moment. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>First I want to share with you about the power of a story. </b>The Bible is filled with stories, stories about people, people like us, people who make mistakes and fall short of God's glory. Thankfully, these same people find mercy and love in the Savior, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Through fiction, although its fiction, spiritual truths can be found, especially if that is the intent of the author, which indeed was my intent. Nuggets of truth are often buried in the words of a story, treasure waiting to be found by the reader. I know I've found my fair share of jewels between the pages of a book. In fact, as a new believer, I read a great deal of Christian and inspirational fiction. I found myself eager to see what The Word had to say about what I was reading. I was drawn closer to our King through the stories authors were faithful to write.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">I, too, wanted to reach wounded warriors and our yet-to-be embraced friends, who do not yet know our Savior, through my writing. That's why the following comment on Facebook touched my heart. This is a gal who I mentor. She has no consistent spiritual upbringing, and has never really wanted to talk about Christ with me. I gifted her this book for her Kindle Fire, knowing she loves to read. Here's what she said: <b>"</b></span><span style="background-color: #edeff4; color: #333333; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; line-height: 14px;"><b>YYYYYYAAAAAAAAYYYYYY!!!!! Read soul defenders. it is awesome and defintely inspiring. I prayed after i read it."</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">That's how God can use our stories, even fiction, to touch others and change hearts. I'm looking forward to my next meeting with this lovely sixteen-year old girl who God's placed in my life. We'll have a lot to talk about. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If you have someone, maybe addicted to drugs, or who has run to the arms of our enemy for fulfillment, consider sharing this book. I believe it can make a difference. Do you have a book or books that touched your heart? - please share in the comment section. Just as important, do you have a story to tell? Maybe it is time for you to tell it too. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Click on the link below to purchase a trade paperback copy of</b> <b><i>Soul Defenders</i></b>. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Defenders-Black-Orchids-1/dp/1479246964/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347692552&sr=1-4&keywords=soul+defenders">http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Defenders-Black-Orchids-1/dp/1479246964/ref=sr_1_4?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1347692552&sr=1-4&keywords=soul+defenders</a>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-6458259758725478372012-09-10T21:07:00.000-07:002012-09-10T21:07:26.113-07:00Remembering 9/11<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">I wrote the following article in 2008. It still stands true today, four years later. </span></b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I can't believe it has been seven years ago that tragedy struck our beloved homeland. Like most people, I can remember exactly where I was that mornng.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Getting ready for work, I'd stepped out of the shower and heard the radio announcer say that the World Trade Center had been hit by a plane. At first, it appeared that it might have been a horrible accident. I had to hurry to work, but in the car, as I continued to listen to live news, I realized that this was no accident. Our nation was under attack and no one seemed to know by who.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">At work, we all sat open-mouthed in front of the TV speculating about what was going on. World War III was mentioned more than once. Outside the skies were abmormally silent as planes had been banned from flying. Our nation was in shock, mourning, and fear. Yet, there was something else growing beneath the surface and in the hearts of men and women everywhere -- a sense of commonality and love for country -- our country ... a desire to help others and support those who were hurting. People forgot about East Coast/West Coast, we were, after all, one nation under God.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Today, sadly, our nation appears to be split right down the middle, and the political climate is scorching with fiery rhetoric from the right and the left. Our enemy is still out there and we are so busy bickering among each other we have forgotten on some level that we are ONE NATION.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">As a Christian woman, I am thankful that I can see meaning and purpose through these dark times. God is still moving and eternity awaits His children. Right now, on this historic day, I choose to love others as God intends. I choose not to engage in political debates. I choose to pray for all our leaders whether I agree with them or not. I choose to honor the brave men and women who are fighting for my freedom here and abroad. I choose to pray for my enemies. May God change their hearts.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">For one day, can we just love? I believe we can. God bless you.</span></div>
Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-16356800319855024842012-09-09T16:55:00.000-07:002012-09-09T16:58:17.994-07:00Keep your bra on and get your Bible out!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">First, before I share today's message, can I just share how much I love this image of the princess entering Heaven and the Lion (our Lord) welcoming her ... someday. I can only imagine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Okay ... here we go:</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">We women can be quite resourceful. Yes, men can as well, but I just read a recent news story about a woman who was stranded after she fell while hiking. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Amazingly, she used her sports bra, attached to some sort of lift-wire to signal her whereabouts. Once the cable started working, her bra ended up in the right hands (that would be anyone’s hands at this point) and she was delivered to safety. Deep sigh of relief. The article acknowledged her intelligent consideration in planning what to send. After all, she needed the remainder of her clothing in order to stay warm overnight. She didn’t randomly choose to send her sports bra, she made a quick, well-assessed plan, and it worked.<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></span></span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I often wonder if I would be so ingenious in a perilous situation. Do you ever do that? You know, you imagine yourself in a specific hair-raising place or position where you alone are responsible for saving the day, and yourself. I guess you might call this a form of daydreaming. But, hey, when I was an athlete (swimmer) back in the day, I always visualized myself performing well before my events. It worked! – most of the time.</span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I’m not sure why I’m even thinking about this. I guess the whole “bra story” got me thinking about emergency planning and preparation. Many of us plan better for what might happen in the “physical realm” than we do in the spiritual.</span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Okay, okay, sounds weird, but let me explain. Remember back during the Year-2000-Scare? Many people stocked up on water, food, flashlights. Some even built extravagant underground dwellings where they could stockpile their goods and live for extended periods of time if needed. They were ready for the worst. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">However, according to God’s plan we should be more concerned about the matters of the heart, our hearts. Do we love God?<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span>Others?<span style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span>Do we care about our character and living in a godly manner? Do we spend time combing His Word for those treasures that we can stockpile in our hearts? God tells us we should live in such a way that we are storing up rewards in Heaven not on earth. We try so hard to protect our physical selves, yet, so often, we fail to effectively manage our spiritual condition. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">I also recall during the preparation for the Year 2000 that many people actively, even aggressively, shared their concerns about the future and argued that we needed to be ready for worst possible scenario. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Friends, the worst possible scenario would be to spend an eternity in hell apart from God’s presence. Yet, how much time and effort do we invest in helping others understand this very real threat? For me, unfortunately, I have to say, not enough. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Maybe we should think a little harder, plan a little more, and become more ingenious like our lady hiker friend. I’m not suggesting we use our bras to spread the word, but we all have access to God’s Truth and His plan. Today is a new day. Let’s get creative and help people prepare for what’s real, forever, and always. Investing in the eternal makes sense considering where we spend our life after death is final. </span><o:p style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><span style="font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"> </span></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-size: small; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><b>No need to wave your bra or boxers, just wave the Banner of Love.</b></span></div>
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Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1835411864985457788.post-6819362720127462972012-09-07T09:28:00.000-07:002012-09-07T09:30:18.644-07:00Soul Defenders: The Black Orchids ... It's arrived!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's arrived! My book, <i><b>Soul Defenders</b></i> is out on Kindle and will be available in print by Monday on Amazon. I'm so excited to share this tale of spiritual suspense and warfare with you. Every Princess Warrior should be prepared on all occasions to fight the good fight. This book is a reminder that we do not fight against flesh and blood.<br />
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Here is the link to purchase. Please, please, spread the word and share the story. Thank you and God bless you, sisters.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Defenders-Black-Orchids-ebook/dp/B00974IOLC/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1347035030&sr=1-2&keywords=soul+defenders">Order Soul Defenders by Carol Van Atta</a><br />
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I'll provide the link to the trade paperback as soon as its available.<br />
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For more reading ... take a peek at Liz Curtis Higgs latest Bible Study book: <a href="http://www.amazon.com/The-Girls-Still-Got-It/dp/1578564484/ref=la_B001IOF77I_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347035119&sr=1-1">http://www.amazon.com/The-Girls-Still-Got-It/dp/1578564484/ref=la_B001IOF77I_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1347035119&sr=1-1</a><br />
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<br />Carol Van Atta, Princess Warriorhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01481252426992974873noreply@blogger.com0