LOVE at God's Table

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. 

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. 

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?

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. 

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. 

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. 

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.

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. 

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. 

 More amazing art by Delores Devlde available for purchase on her Fine Arts Page.

Never Forget Who You Belong To

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 the TRUTH that we are indeed His precious and powerful daughters. 

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. 

So straighten your crown, tighten your amor, pick up that sword and shield and kick satan's you-know-what with God's Truth.  

Revelation 12:10-11

 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. 11They have conquered him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; and they did not love their lives so as to shy away from death.

Merry Christmas and Happy 'almost' New Year

Wow...this feels so strange, to say the least. It has been a long, long, long time since I have kept this blog updated.

 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 major health issues, family and financial challenges, and my faith was tested beyond what I believed I could bear. 

Yet, here I am. Alive. Breathing. Living. Loving. Still a daughter of the King and His Princess Warrior. 

I have allowed the enemy to beat up and bully me for far too long. I've had enough! 

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. 

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. 

https://thelife.com/a-new-beginning

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!

The Cracked Mirror

Christmas is almost here. Wow! The birthday celebration of our Savior, Jesus Christ. He truly is (forgive the cliche') the REASON FOR THE SEASON.

I've been so blessed this Holiday Season. My job has provided a number of free tickets to incredible productions like, The Nutcracker, Narnia, and Big Little Things. My daughter and I have flitted from one play to the next, enjoying dancing, music, and drama, three things that delight and entertain us. I've never experienced such a wonderful taste of the arts in Portland. I am impressed. Big time.

One thing I noticed, always, while in the lovely restrooms at these events, was the amount of time women stood looking in the mirror. In fact, I remember reading somewhere (I wish I could remember where and when) that women look in the mirror, or windows, OR anything with a reflection, hundreds of times daily.

What are we looking for? Sure we check our lipstick, smooth down that out-of-place hair, and even wash the lunch crumbs away ... but, I think there just might be something more to our fascination with our own reflections.

Remember the evil queen in Snow White? She had a mirror that continually fed her a lie. For she was most certainly not the fairest in the land even before Ms. Snow White showed her pretty face on the scene. The Queen's mirror had a nasty fibbing streak, didn't it? Leading his wicked ruler to become disillusioned with her reality.

On another level, apart from movie magic, we all have a "mirror," something inside us that reflects back everything good, bad, and in between that has happened in our lifetime. Words spoken, actions taken, mistakes made by us and against us. If we stare into our mirror long enough, we can be certain to see something we don't like. For most of us, our mirrors are cracked. They don't reflect the truth about who we are and who we belong to.

We hear a lot about self-esteem and self-image these days. To often we spend untold amounts of money and time on improving our so-called image. We work hard to fix the outside when the blemishes we are really trying to cover are the ones on the inside. Focusing on our self-image can leave us empty or even shallow. I'm not saying we shouldn't be positive and work on improving ourselves. Not even close! But what I am suggesting is that we spend less time in the mirror and more time in The Word focusing on our God-image. That's right. We are made in God's image. In other words, parts of Him reside in us. If we'd take the time to know who He is and what He has to say about us, we'd feel less concerned about some old cracked mirror.

The funny thing is, when we embrace our God-image our self-image improves. Ladies, we are royalty, Princess Warriors, children of the most high God. We are worthy women of God. Listen to what He has to say about us:

And I rejoice over you with singing. Zephaniah 3:17
My thoughts toward you are as countless as the sand on the seashore. Psalm 139:17-18
Because I love you with an everlasting love. Jeremiah 31:3
You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14
I chose you when I planned creation. Ephesians 1:11-12

Let's spend less time listening to lies and looking in the mirror, and more time looking to God for our worth. After all, our identity is found in Him.

God loves you. He treasures you. He has adopted you. You are created in His image to do great and marvelous things. Don't believe anything or anyone that tells you otherwise, even the mirror in your mind. Replace the the negative with God's truth and start reigning real right now!

No pain ... no gain?

I have to agree with the following illustration. So often, I experience difficult life circumstances, sudden turmoil, or emotional pain, and am certain that God has taken a vacation, at least from me. In my head I know that's really not the case, but I'm guessing you understand what I mean. As Christians today in America, the idea that happiness equals godliness is often mistaken for the "Gospel Truth." I guess some folks forgot to talk with Job, or any number of our biblical ancestors. Their quest wasn't for more happiness, but for more of God. Consider the following ...

In his sermon on dealing with trials, Nashville pastor Byron Yawn points out: "For most, especially American Christians, even the remotest suggestion that there could be value in our suffering is viewed as uncaring and insensitive. We have been conditioned by our culture to believe the opposite. A collective attitude that exalts comfort and views personal happiness as the end of all things has blurred our perspective. There is no place for pain in American Christianity. "Because of this distorted perception, we rarely stop to search for the ’hand of God’ in the midst of our trouble. Seeking to understand God’s purposes in our pain is all but foreign. As a result, embracing pain’s role in our sanctification is usually the farthest thing from our minds. As one so aptly put it, ’Most people count it all joy when they escape trials. James said to count it all joy in the midst of trials.’ We need to come to grips with a significant truth: God’s will is not our happiness, but His Glory. The two may, or may not, be directly related."

SOURCE: PreachingNow Vol. 1, No. 20. Tue 9/3/2002.

Just a little something to chew on. May God show Himself to you in mighty ways precious Princess Warriors.

A Christmas Story

Blessings, friends! I hope you like my new holiday-themed blog design. I thought it would be fun to update the format to reflect the season. Thank you everyone for your touching comments in relation to the posts on this site. I can't express just how much your words mean. Knowing that my writing is challenging, encouraging, and motivating others in their walk with Christ is a gift worth unwrapping many times over.

I hope you enjoy the following story I wrote for a magazine in 2005. It's as applicable today as it was then.

Mary's fingers flew across the keys of her new laptop. The precious homework aide was her favorite birthday gift from her mom and dad. She was, finally, sweet sixteen, a straight A-student, and head of school's cheer leading squad. However, after returning from a recent mission trip to Mexico, her aspirations were slowly changing. Cheer leading didn't seem quite as important anymore. Helping others discover the miracle of God's grace had taken center stage in her life, next to Joe.

Joe was the best boyfriend any girl could ask for. He was kind, attentive, attractive, fun, and he respected her godly values. Not to mention, he was already in a carpentry-training program after completing high school a year early. They'd known each other since kindergarten. Mary rested in the knowledge that someday she would rest in Joe's arms as his cherished wife. Glancing down, she twisted the silver band on her left ring finger. The ring's words -- True Love Waits -- helped provide her with the encouragement she needed to face a world filled with so many young people having sex and not waiting for "true love." This tiny piece of jewelry represented her commitment to remain pure until her wedding night.

"Honey, lights out," her mother's voice drifted up the stairs, interrupting her thoughts.

"Goodnight mom, dad," she called out before shutting off her computer and slipping between her cozy, flannel sheets. Life was sweet. She hoped her dreams would be sweet as well.

"Mary!" A musical voice trumpeted. "Awaken, child."

Bolting upright, Mary clutched her comforter under her chin. How long had she been asleep? Nothing could have prepared her for the massive form towering over her bed. His skin was copper and shone like the afternoon sun. A cascading mane of golden hair draped over his muscular shoulders. Dressed in a flowing white tunic secured with a belt adorned with jewels, the winged creature smiled.

"Do not fear God's chosen one, for you, Mary, have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive a baby, and will give birth to a boy. His name is Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Highest; and the Lord God will give Him the throne of His father David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and there will be no end to His Kingdom."

Still terrified, yet honored by his request, Mary had to ask, "How is this possible, angel? I am a virgin. I'm not even finished with high school."

The angel replied, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Highest will overshadow you; therefore the child you bear will be called the Son of God. Also, your loving Aunt Elizabeth is also pregnant in her old age, for with God, nothing is impossible."

The implications of this request were beyond Mary's understanding. However, she did know the One who had sent this angelic messenger, and she could not resist His love. "I will do it, gladly," she agreed.

With his mission completed, in a roaring tornado of wind and blinding light, the angel vanished. Mary was left breathless, her heart pounding like a stampede of wild horses under her nightgown. How would she explain this to her parents? to Joe? to anyone?

Sliding from her bed, her knees sank into the soft carpet. "God help me," she cried, "God help me."

Three Months Later

"What do you mean you're pregnant?" Her father's voice reached a decibel level Mary had never heard in her sixteen years living under his roof.

"Honey, calm down. Let Mary explain." Her mother interrupted.

"Dad, please, listen. I didn't have sex ... "

"Were you raped? I'll kill him! Was it Joe?" Her father's voice again escalated.

"You're not listening! I am pregnant by the Holy Spirit, Daddy. An angel came to me and told me I would have God's Son, and to name Him Jesus." She couldn't believe she'd finally said the words out loud.

"Mary! That will be enough! I've never heard of such a stupid thing. Until you can tell the truth, you can just get out of this house. No daughter of mine is going to be seen pregnant and tell people she got pregnant by God. People will think we're crazy, abusers, something. When you're ready to tell the truth, you can come home, until then, pack your bags." Her dad turned and stormed away; slamming the door with such force their two-story house shook.

"Honey, go stay with a friend or something until your father calms down. I'll talk to him. You and Joe better do something. I know we've always been against abortion, but maybe in this case it might be the best thing." Her mother tried to sound soothing.

"Abortion! I can't believe you're even suggesting that. We love God, remember?" Mary raced up the stairs, her thoughts in a whirlwind. Where would she go? Who could she tell?

Fanatically, shoving her clothing into a large backpack, she raced to get away from her mother, who was no in her room calling abortion clinics.

"Sweetie, this doctor says twelve weeks isn't too late. There's still time."

"Who are you, mom?" Snatching her favorite stuffed bear, Mary bolted from the room. Her mom, whom she no longer recognized, trailed behind, still trying to convince to at least Visit a clinic for advice.

LATER THAT EVENING:

TO BE CONTINUED TOMORROW.

The photo above is a little girl born at the maternity home, Bethany House. www.bethanyhousenet.org

Keep your eyes on the prize

Have you ever noticed just how easy it is to get distracted from what is good and from God? Seriously, it can happen in a blink of the eye.

Just today, I was channel surfing. I landed on MTV, a place where I normally do not linger. I was shocked to see two women kissing to the obvious pleasure of the roaring and hooting crowd of attractive men and women. Wondering what in the world this insanity of a show was, I watched -- big mistake. Apparently, this is a dating show. Men and women vying for the "love" of one woman. After a few minutes of crazy dialogue with more bleeps than words, I turned the channel.

These are images that our children, if we're not careful, can stumble upon. This is the first time we've had cable in a very, very long time. Now I remember some of the many benefits to not having it.

My main point in this is that as Princess Warriors, daughters of the King of Kings, we must shield our eyes from what the world touts as normal. The beginning of sin begins with a thought. A gaze that lingers a second too long, just a taste of that scrumptious treat, only a brief hesitation and we can let our guard down. The devil is well aware of those times when we are not defending our minds, when we allow our thoughts to run rampant, when we forget to take our thoughts captive as our King commands.

King David was a prime example of this spiral downward. First he saw a beautiful woman bathing. Rather than turning from the sight, he stayed and watched. Temptation grew, and although he was a renowned fighter he failed to use the spiritural weapons at his disposal. As most of you know, the story ends in disaster. Adultry. Lies. Betrayal. Murder. Death of a child -- his child.

Ladies, we can't afford to let our guards down. Our enemy is waiting for us to forget just how serious sin is. Then he can sink his claws in and tear us to shreds if we let him.

The good news is that we can flee from sin. We can keep our armor well-polished and in working order. Will it take effort? You bet it will! But the victory is well worth the spiritual sweat.

Maybe there's something specific in your life that you need to flee from. A certain TV show, a specific book genre, hanging out with the wrong friends, buying things you don't need to fill your heart hunger, the list could go on for miles. Who knows? -- maybe you dwell on negative or sensuous thoughts. We have to take those thoughts captive and stop them from escallating into a full blown sin-attack.

Let's remember as we go about God's business to keep our eyes on the prize. When resisiting seems hard, and it will, remember the reward at the end of road -- a permanent place in Heaven with Jesus Christ.

Royal Reminder: Staying focussed on the "right things" and will make it easier to stay on the right path. Amen!

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers (sisters), I do no consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12 to 14

Susan the Gentle: Narnia's Queen

Greetings Princess Warrior! I hope you are having a fantastic Memorial Day weekend. This Princess Warrior has been laying low, taking naps, reading books, and seeing movies. Oh, and I did work, too, from home. But not as much!

We watched several fun movies at home: National Treasure II and 27 Dresses, but the best movie, for me, these past few days was Narnia. I took my daughter and her friend to the theatre and we all were totally absorbed by this thrilling adventure. Not to mention, the girls thought the boys (King Peter, Prince Caspian, and King Edmund) were all cute. Personally, I liked the dashing Prince Caspian. Hey, who says us ladies over 40 can't think a movie star is cute?

Seriously, though, this movie and its characters gave wonderful examples of the challenges facing Christian royalty fighting as God's warriors. I'm going to focus on Susan. I believe she is an ideal example of a Princess Warrior for Christ. Let me explain.

Susan is focussed, a leader, yet still named "Susan the Gentle" for her gentle spirit. When it comes to battling enemy forces, this girl rocks. You've just gotta see her gracefully maneuvering in the midst of evil forces, launching arrow after arrow at her intended targets, hitting most of them dead on. She is a gentle, intelligent, and very feminine young woman, who can kick the devil's butt when need be. Granted, like several other characters, she should have sought out Aslan (Jesus) sooner, but once again, that delay makes her even more real, more human.

After all, how many times do we walk head on into a spiritual battle without back up, without direction, and by our own power? If you're like me and many of the women I know, your answer is probably ... too many times. Too often we react rather than respond with wisdom, prudence, and planning. Now granted, there at times we have to "think fast," but we are to never think so fast that we forget to call on the Ultimate Defender -- Jesus Christ.

During much of this movie, the characters battled with their own pride and unbelief, leading them to make many selfish decisions that were not in allignment with God's will. These decisions left many of their friends wounded, or worse.

I don't know about you, but, I, too, have made choices based on my own feelings and reactions rather than on the facts evidenced by God's truth. When I act without God's guidance, I end up with a knife in my back. (spiritually speaking)

So, in the end, Narnia reminded me to seek God first. For when I attempt to reign by my own power I am left short of God's best.

I encourage you to go see Narnia and watch for the many spiritual messages that abound in this fun film. God bless you all.

This little light of mine ... let it shine, let it shine!

"One evening, a young child, Robert Louis Stevenson, author of books such as Treasure Island, was looking out the front window of his house fascinated by the lamplighter coming down the street, lighting the old fashioned gas street lamps. He called to his Nana, "Nana! Come quickly! There’s a man coming down the street punching holes in the darkness!"

As Princess Warriors for Christ, reigning real is about carrying the light of Christ to those around us. The world (as if you hadn't noticed) can at times be a very dark, dismal place. With people lurking in the shadows of their sin, hopelessness seems to prevail.

Sometimes, unfortunately, we, as daughters of the King, allow ourselves to be drug into the dungeon of doubt and find ourselves stumbling in the darkness. Oh, dear friends, may this not be, for we are children of light, God's light. We are to shine brightly as a lamp on the hillside for all to see.

As warriors it is part of our palace protocol to "punch some holes" in the darkness. Amen!

Go on ... don't be afraid. Walk into your destiny as a Light Bearer in this dimming world.

Some tips for shining your brightest:

1. Speak with kindness no matter how tempted you are to blast someone with harsh words.

2. Seek forgiveness, quickly, when you cause harm. (Yes, we all still cause harm on occasion)

3. Speak God's Word to combat the devil's lies (those icky thoughts that seem to roar through your mind like a tropical storm telling you how worthless and "bad" you still are)

4. Set an example by how you act. Ask yourself, "Am I behaving like a daughter of the Most High God?" If not, adjust your actions, after all, people are watching.

5. Share your faith whenever possible. Let others know why you shine so brightly. For when you are reigning real those around you are sure to notice and wonder what sets you apart. Just a thought ... we're so quick to share our favorite TV shows, cosmetics, and American Idol contestants.

Are we as eager to share about Jesus?

On my knees again

Blessings, Princess Warriors!

Every day we have so many choices to make and challenges to face. As daughters of the King, we will always be given the opportunity to act in love, or to serve ourselves.

For me, throughout the day, I can get so caught up in the many battles demanding to "be fought" that I fail to remember that by my own limited power I am unable to accomplish as much as I am with God's unlimited power.

Remember ...

A Warrior for Christ, is not a lone ranger, attempting to manage everything alone. And why would we want to go it alone? We have God's Word to guide us; Jesus' footsteps to follow; The Holy Spirit to empower us. Not a bad combination!

So, maybe it's time for you, right now, this moment, to simply bow your head, drop to your knees, or, perhaps, even fall on your face in prayer. Right now! Right?

After all, when our car's gas gauge reads empty, we pull over and fill it up. When the bedside lamp stops shining, we make sure it's plugged in. When that family pet acts cranky, we put food in the food dish. You get the picture! So, why do we wait so long when our spiritual tanks are running on empty? I mean we let the warning light come on, stay on, and we just keep trudging on wondering why "things" like loving others are so hard. Hummmm ....

It is truly impossible to accomplish what needs to be accomplished without daily doses of God's love, grace, truth, and power. Thankfully, His touch is always enough. For fueling up in prayer moves our faith-gauge into the upright position. No more flashing light screaming for attention.

Oh ... prayer is free! Christ already paid the price! So, our Power Source will never run dry or cost $5.00 a gallon. Amen!

Don't wait: PRAY!

P: Put on the Armor ... the Belt goes first

R: Refuse fear fatalities

A: Aim the Arrow of Love

Y: Yield to the King

(watch for more about prayer)

Reigning Real from your Throne: Part II

Reigning Real: Part Two: Receive His Resources
Written by Carol Van Atta

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV)

As Jesus’ beloved, you have received the following:

Resources: "All that belongs to the Father is mine…the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you." John 16:15 (NIV)

In the last article, we discovered a Princess who had just realized there is a whole lot more to reigning real than looking pretty. Serving the King of Kings is a position available to each and every woman who walks this planet. For this all-powerful King has more than enough crowns, and love, to go around. He seeks imperfect women, women like you and me, to rule and reign for eternity as His Princess Warriors. Jesus has made certain that we are provided with everything we need to live successfully in this often confusing and sometimes very wicked world.

As His daughters, we have been given all the required resources to walk boldly, with integrity and confidence, as godly royalty. We can reign real from our God-given thrones.

Does it sound too good to be true?

Depending on the day, the hour, even the minute…our answers will vary. When life is proceeding as we desire, it’s much easier to claim our royal heritage. We tend to base our identity on our feelings, which is a big mistake. The Bible tells us that our hearts are deceitful above all other things. In other words, we can easily be led astray by our fickle emotions.

As a writer, I am always more than a little pleased when my words are published for others to read. However, writers have one thing in common besides their love of the written word — rejection. Yes, rejection. Just the other day, I saw the envelope —an envelope with a return address that I immediately recognized. A certain publisher had responded to my newest book-proposal. I took a deep breath, attempting to calm my heart that was now beating like a stampede of wild-horse-hooves pounding across the desert. Opening the letter, ever so carefully, my eyes feasted on the bold print: Sorry, but your project is not right for us…

That stampede of horses skidded to a halt, and I thought I might go into cardiac arrest. Disappointment and a barrage of negative thoughts clouded my vision, and immediately affected my state of being. I went from knowing I was a Princess Warrior to thinking maybe my King had forgotten I existed. I’ve had rejections before, and I’ve been honored to have my work published on a number of occasions. Yet, in this moment, I’d fallen into a deadly trap that the enemy of my soul had so diligently prepared. I allowed my feelings to determine my worth. My identity, for those few minutes, was not based on what God my King says about me, but instead on my lying emotions.

In order to have a fruitful reign, we must be continually reminded of who God created us to be, and what He planned for us to do. Will we experience rejection? Undoubtedly, we will, on more than a few occasions. Our goal is to stand steadfast in the truth of who we are. There is a war raging around us, and an enemy who wants us to give up, lay down our swords, and toss away our crowns. Thankfully, our King has provided us with heavenly resources. The Holy Spirit will make these resources known to us in a variety of ways.

There is a treasure chest of gems and jewels available to every royal daughter. It is up to us to open the chest … His Word. The Holy Bible is our primary resource. The treasures we will discover within its pages are just what we need to stand in victory.

No matter what your circumstances might be, no matter what rejection you have experienced, God’s Word explains that He will never reject those who follow Him. He promises to never leave or forsake His chosen ones. That means us! When we accepted Christ as our Savior and Redeemer, we were welcomed into an eternal Kingdom where our God and King will rule and reign for eternity with us by His side. When we can grasp that amazing truth, our whole outlook on life will change.

Yes, there are battles we may lose, rejections we will experience, and pain that seems unbearable, but, if we utilize the resources He so generously provides, we will overcome.

Consider Paul. He was locked in a filthy Roman prison. Beaten and shackled, this ancient warrior sang songs of praise to his King. In spite of the pain and rejection that he experienced on a regular basis, he continued to use the resources available to him. Praise and worship in the midst of trials and temptations showed others that he never forgot who He was in Christ.

Rahab, a prostitute who probably felt degraded, ashamed, and rejected, overcame her feelings and trusted the spies who she’d hidden in her home. She trusted that their Hebrew God would rescue her and her family from destruction. Mary, a young virgin girl, chosen to be the bearer of our Lord in the flesh, risked rejection, even death, by embracing God’s purpose for her life. The list goes on and on. Other men and women, fallible just like us, embraced their royal heritage and trusted in the resources provided by their King.

You may face horrendous trials today. Your marriage may be shaky, your kids out of control, your job unfulfilling, your body sick, but if belong to the Royal Court of Christ; there are supernatural resources available to you in every situation. Sometimes the best we can do is cling to who our King is and what His promises say. We may feel so rejected that we’ve accepted the lies our enemy has strategically fired our way. It’s time to raise the Shield of Faith and fight back. God’s Will and His Way will prevail … always. Your life may not make sense now, but God will take everything that the devil intends for evil and destruction, and He will somehow, someway, someday, turn it around for His good and glory.

If you’ve forgotten, or still don’t understand who you are as a Princess Warrior, as a daughter of the Most High King, please read the following truths aloud. God’s Word is our greatest resource. It is our Sword. The Sword of His Spirit. The Sword of Truth. Speak it. Believe it. Live it. No matter what you might be feeling in this moment … you are created for good things. Remember, you belong on a Throne. So, go ahead, reign real … one step and one prayer at a time. God will do the rest.

Who you are in Christ:

I am God’s Child (John 1:12)
I am Christ’s friend (John 15:15)
I have been justified (Romans 5:1)
I am united with the Lord, and I am one Spirit with Him. (I Corinthians 6:17)
I have been bought with a price. I belong to God. (I Corinthians 6: 19, 20)
I am a member of Christ’s Body. (I Corinthians 12:27)
I am a Saint. (Ephesians 1:1)
I have been adopted as God’s child. (Ephesians 1:5)
I have direct access to God through the Holy Spirit. (Ephesians 2:18)
I have been redeemed and forgiven of all my sins. (Colossians 1:14)
I am complete in Christ. (Colossians 2:10)
I am free forever from condemnation. (Romans: 8:1, 2)
I am assured that all things work together for good. (Romans: 8:28)
I am free from all condemnation. (Romans 8:31)
I cannot be separated from the love of God. (Romans 8:35)
I have been established, anointed, and sealed by God. (2 Cor. 1: 21, 22)
I am hidden with Christ in God. (Col. 3:3)
I am confident that the good work that God has begun in me will be perfected. (Phil. 1:6)
I am a citizen of Heaven. (Phil. 3:20)
I have not been given a spirit of fear of but of power and a sound mind. (2 Tim. 1:7)
I can find grace and mercy in a time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

Don't forget to visit my other Blog, too: http://princesswarrior.bravejournal.com/

Reigning Real from your Throne: Part I

Out of all the peoples on the face of the earth, the Lord has chosen you to be his treasured possession.

Deuteronomy 14:2 NIV

Tentatively, the woman approached the massive wardrobe. Its intricate design work showcased a multitude of dazzling jewels. The words impressive, inspiring, even remarkable fell short of sufficiently describing the workmanship of this majestic creation that now housed an array of colorful gowns — her gowns.

Gently stroking the velvety fabric of one purple, floor-length robe, she envisioned the elegant garment draped over her shoulders. Carefully, she slipped the item from its hanger. As she secured the tasseled belt around her waist, a flash of metal caught her attention.

In the far right corner of her vast, new closet, she spotted what looked like armor…several armors. Some silver, others bronze, or gold; they shone with an unearthly brilliance. Who could they belong to? Why were they placed in the midst of her royal attire? Surely, there must be some mistake.

She vaguely remembered reading about “fighting the good fight of faith,” but she’d assumed that statement applied specifically to men who resided in the Kingdom. Her King wouldn’t expect her to battle, or, would He?

Turning away from the wardrobe, she nearly stumbled over a scroll tied with a gold ribbon. Goodness, how could she have missed that? Without hesitation, she eagerly grasped the rolled parchment and hurried to a chair by the fireplace. Hopefully, she’d find the answers she sought. She read…

But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light. (1 Peter 2:9 NKJV)

As Jesus’ beloved, you have received the following:

- Resources — “All that belongs to the Father is mine…the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you” (John 16:15 NIV)

- Friendship — “I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you” (John 15:15 NIV)

- Love — “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love.” (John 15:9)

- Joy — “I have told you this so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete” (John 15:11 NIV)

- Glory — “I have given them the glory that you [Father] gave me” (John 17:22 NIV)

- A Risen life — “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. .When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory” (Colossians 3:1,4 NIV)

- Inheritance — “If we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory” (Romans 8:17 NIV)

- The Right to Reign — “To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit with me on my throne” (Revelation 3:21 NIV)

- Protective Armor — “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the whiles of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” (Ephesians 6:10-12 NKJV)

The delicate inscription explained everything. She had indeed become a princess for Christ, but it wasn’t all about frilly ruffles and priceless perfume. No, her new identity involved living like a princess and a warrior, who on occasion might have to lift her royal ruffles to launch a swift kick of truth at a relentless enemy. She had been given a belt, breastplate, special footwear, helmet, and even a sword to use against her King’s sworn enemy. Indeed, the armor she had seen…was hers.

***

When I first accepted Christ as my Savior, I was immediately wrapped in a glorious gown of His grace and seated on spiritual throne next to my beloved King.
Life was good.

My sins had been forgiven and I was flying high on the understanding that I had traded my filthy rags for a heavenly destiny. I’d turned from a pauper to a princess. The old “me” was gone and a new Carol stood ready to reign as Christian royalty. Well, almost.

I excitedly opened myself to God’s Spirit and soon discovered there was a hope-filled future for those of us who believed and belonged to Christ’s family. Wow! This life far exceeded my previous existence of pain, shame, numerous addictions, and chronic hopelessness. God had chosen imperfect me to follow perfect Him…forever.

The first months of my new, royal- reality seemed to dance by like a graceful ballerina. A few spins and stumbles, but no major falls. Then something changed. Something happened. I tripped and fell…hard. Getting up was difficult, and wearing a fluffy tutu in light of my blunders seemed silly at the very least. Standing in a silky gown, while a brutal battle raged around me became increasingly foolish, and incredibly difficult. Although I tried to maintain my perfect princess identity, it was apparent I’d missed some critical information in my previous review of God’s plan of action.

I had been floating along on a cloud of God’s incredible grace, all the while, forgetting there was another pertinent, palace-protocol that I had completely missed — the importance, actually, the complete necessity of God’s powerful truth.

Without a more complete knowledge of God’s Manual for Living, the Holy Bible, I had failed to utilize the armor my King so generously provides for all of His royal subjects. Without the this protective covering, I had left myself wide open for the King’s sworn enemy, Satan, to trip me up, leaving me battered, bruised, and quite frankly bewildered by the ferocity of this feral beast’s attacks. Apparently, this otherworldly creature was none too pleased to have lost yet another one of his former, sinful slaves to Christ’s love.

Thankfully, I discovered sooner, rather than much later, that over my fancy princess attire, I needed to add a Garment of Praise and Prayer and a warrior’s full body armor, including:

· The Belt of Truth
· Breastplate of Righteousness
· Sandals of the Gospel of Peace
· Helmet of Salvation
· Shield of Faith
· Sword of God’s Spirit

I also needed to consume the proper nutrients to remain spiritually and emotionally strong and agile, The Fruit of God’s Spirit… “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law”— (Galatians 5:22 NAS)

By embracing all God has for His Princess Warriors - us - we truly are able to reign real in an often wicked world without succumbing to its tantalizing temptations. We can be totally and completely satisfied with who we are…daughters of the King. There is no better position, is there? After all, anything less leaves us reaching for more.

Join me next month as we continue to discover the joys of reigning real from our thrones as precious princesses and worthy warriors. God bless you until then.

A Woman Belongs on a Throne

Finally, friends, here I am!

I have been promising for a while now to create a new journal/blog completely dedicated to the "Princess Warrior for Christ" theme.

For those of you who are new to me and my message, you might want to visit my OTHER BLOG at http://princesswarrior.bravejournal.com/

There you can read my everyday ramblings as an imperfect, zany, and loving woman of God. Yes, I'm a daughter of the King of Kings and my writings all somehow, someway, end up pointing back to the love of my life, Jesus Christ.

But don't let any preconceived ideas of Christianity fool you. Hopefully, you will be pleasantly surprised to discover that I struggle daily with things like unbelief, anger, gluttony (yep, that's a biggie) and much, much more. HOWEVER, thankfully, my growing understanding of who I am in Christ helps me better embrace His plan and purpose for my life.

A few additional facts:

I'm a single mom of two mostly darling kids (ages 9 and 15) Yes, I know, lovely age gap. Oh, did I mention the youngest is a girl and the oldest a teen boy. Need I say more?

I'm a published author and inspirational (transformational) speaker. Currently, I'm on pins and needles as two large Christian publishers are considering two new book projects. One book is all about this reigning real stuff, another about removing our phony masks so we can be really real. Hum ... anyone sensing a theme here?

Before Christ, well, that's a story for another day. Let's just say: major druggie, relationship junkie (addicted to love in all the wrong places), angry and mean, afraid and phony, are some words and phrases that easily describe my younger years.

My day job (no, I'm not yet supporting myself wholly by writing and speaking) is in the social service field where I get to help people who were just like me find a better way to live.

My ministry involvement is with Bethany House, a home for single, pregnant women that have nowhere to go. I have served as their Outreach Coordinator and Spokesperson for a number of years. To learn more about this amazing program check out: http://www.bethanyhousenet.org/

Well, that's a start. I'm a little tired as it's, goodness, after 2:30 AM. I love to read and write late at night. Not a good habit during weekdays.

I'll look forward to chatting more. God bless you and goodnight. Sweet Dreams ....