Leave the stones behind

Wow! Where has the time gone? Have you noticed that I've started my last three posts off with a similar explanation?

It's time, finally, to refocus and push the re-start button. Baseball season (my son's) is over. Once again, I have found myself in a place I don't like. Too focused on his abilities and talents and all that that encompasses and less focused on what really matters: Loving God and Loving Others. Big no-no! When we do this; we end up feeling empty, icky, and too far from Him -- Jesus Christ.

Yes, we can make ANYTHING an idol, even our children and their activities. I wonder when I'll learn the lesson and cease repeating the pattern. I can pray and prepare to do much better next time around. God is like that, you know. he will give us the "opportunity" to do things the better way until we are able to do so.

Today, (and many days this summer) God has spoken to me about loving and encouraging words vs. not-so-nice and even downright mean words. Seriously, I find it so much easier to encourage my clients, other women, audiences I speak to ... the list goes on, than it is to encourage my own children. I've even earned the title "crazy mom" this summer, from not just one child, but two. That's not a good statistic when 100% in question agree.

Seriously, sometimes I'm so quick to point out the "truth" that I use some pretty mean methods with little thought to the damage and destruction my form of "motivation" is reaping in their lives. Also, they both have been getting under my skin with some of their own issues. My responses haven't helped matters. At church this morning, I was reminded quite clearly, again, about the importance of speaking truth, not lying, and not using our tongue as a wounding whip. When we practice loving words and loving actions we become incredible testimonies for our Heavenly King. We can try harder to speak better; read tons of self-help books: go to seminars and classes; ultimately, though, only God can change the way we speak by changing what's in our hearts.

Consider for a moment how so many fires get started during the summer months. You only have to drive through a national forest to notice the signs marked either: green, yellow, or red. It's evident what season we're in right now. Fires are devastating. They can cause miles of damage, destroy homes, property, and even lives. Sometimes fires rage for days, weeks, even months during fire season. Yet these raging infernos are often started by one tiny spark. Someone carelessly throws a match down and before they realize what's happened it's burst into frightening flames of fury. Even worse, there are those -- we call them arsonists -- who purposefully start fiery destruction regardless of the future damage.

Aren't our words the same? One nasty little comment. An untruth. A rumor. Even a truthful comment spoken in angry haste can lead to a bonfire of burning hearts.

I have to admit I've become rather obsessive with telling my children what they should do. After all, I'm the mother, right? I spend more time searching for the stones in their lives and pointing them out than I do enjoying the diamonds that they seek to share with me. I don't want to be known as the "nagging mother." No one likes a nag. I don't. Do you?

So why do we end up becoming that which we can't stand? Because by our own power we cannot control our sin nature. We may seem "tame" but then someone or somethings pushes our buttons and we can quickly create an inferno of words better left unsaid.

Imagine a lion. Our pastor shared about a tape he had watched where tourists got their pictures taken with one huge "tamed" lion. All went well until on unsuspecting visitor stepped on the tamed lion's paw. That tame lion nearly mauled the man to death. His true nature came through under pain, under pressure. Granted, we aren't animals with inbred instincts, but we are human beings with inbred sin. It is only by God's power and grace that we can truly find hope for our dilemma. Without the power of the Holy Spirit helping us restrain our sin nature, we will continue to start fires.

So, what can we do? How can we tame our tongues? These are the tips my pastor shared:

1. Realize that ONLY GOD can change the way you speak

2. Respond to the Holy Spirit's promptings. (Have you ever felt that nudge or prompting that tells you to shut your big mouth? It behooves us to heed these promptings.)

3. Be accountable. (Let others know of your struggle. When you blow it, which we all do at some point, have others around you that will pray for you and give them permission to point out your sin in love.)

4. Cry out to God for help. (Psalm 19: 14 is great for this. "May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer."

I know I've touched on this topic more than a few times. I'm guessing it's something we need reminders about. I know I do.

As we start our weeks, let us look for the diamonds and stop seeking the stones. If we've started a fire or fires, let us do our best to put them out and help clean up the damage our fires might have caused. Let's reach out to God and others for help in becoming the Princess Warriors for Christ we were called and created to be. After all, when there's a house fire, a truck with a team of firefighters come to douse the flames, a remodeling company helps restore the home ... it's a team effort.

Bottom line let's ask God to continue renewing our minds and softening our hearts. For as our hearts soften our words will not be as hard.

God bless you sisters.

Holding on to Heaven

Where has the time gone?

Do you ever find yourself asking that same question? I suppose we all do from time to time.

For me, the past few months have roared by like a train barreling down the track.

On several occasions, my faith-train almost derailed causing me to plummet from the safety of the tracks. Thankfully, though, with God, "almost" becoming derailed is not the same as actually experiencing a fatal crash. For, thankfully, in Him love reigns. As His Princess Warriors, we never lose His love.

As mentioned in previous posts, my recent struggles have been the result of numerous hardships, tests, and challenges, both large and small. Not to mention, now in my mid-forties, my hormones are doing a whole new gymnastics routine that I haven't quite learned how to execute the right way. I easily become grumpy and/or weepy. These mood swings only serve to make things more interesting. (That's a nice way of putting it!)

Yet, in spite of it all, I've managed to hold on to the Hope of Heaven found through Jesus Christ my Savior and King, who has gently pressed me to resume my calling to encourage others through writing.

I find it amusing (sort of) that one of the things that I most enjoy (writing) was one thing I casually placed to the side of my life. It's all so backwards. When we're down, we often stop doing the very activities that help keep us positive, and if the devil can get us to cease walking in our calling, he wins ... temporarily. Thank goodness, with Christ on our side the score can quickly change back to our advantage, but we have to get in the game and start participating again.

Honestly, the truth remains: No matter what's going on around us or in us, we can still experience the hope available in Christ. Faith in Him and His love make all things possible.

When I found the following story, I was embarrassed just thinking about the things I've allowed to overwhelm me. This little guy, with his BIG, BIG faith, reminded me that it's all about our belief in who Christ is. If we believe that He does all things out of His unfathomable love for us, we can endure anything. If we believe that He can work what was met for evil for His ultimate good and glory, then we can experience unrestrained hope.

Consider the following story of one boy's faith and courage through a very difficult time in his life. I know I'd do well to remember it when I feel down on my life and myself. Maybe you'll feel the same.

David, a two year old with Leukemia, was taken by his mother, Deborah, to Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, to see Dr. John Truman who specializes in treating children with cancer and various blood diseases. Dr. Truman's prognosis was devastating: "He has a 50-50 chance."

The countless clinic visits, the blood tests, the intravenous drugs, the fear and pain -- the mother's ordeal can be almost as bad as the child's because she has to stand by, unable to bear the pain herself. David never cried in the waiting room, and although his friend's in the clinic had to hurt him and stick needles in him, he hustled in ahead of his mother with a smile, sure of the warm welcome he always got.

When he was three, David had to have a spinal tap -- a painful procedure at any age. It was explained to him that because he was sick, Dr. Truman had to do something to make him better. "If it hurts, remember it's because he loves you," Deborah said.

The procedure was horrendous. It took three nurses to hold David still, while he yelled and sobbed and struggled. When it was almost over, the tiny boy, soaked in sweat and tears, looked up at the doctor and gasped, "Thank you, Dr. Tooman for my hurting."

(Monica Dickens, Miracles of Courage, 1985)

Wow! Do we thank God for our hurting? It's not something I eagerly do on a regular basis.

Do we trust that God's love may involve the pain necessary to heal our hearts? After all, we will face things that hurt and seem to hinder us. However, God is God and He knows exactly what remedy will ensure our best spiritual health. He is the Great Physician dedicated to our ultimate well-being.

We tend to forget that the well-being and health He is most concerned about is the health of our hearts, of our spirits. If pain prompts us to embrace change, he may allow that pain out of love, for a season.

We need only look at the Apostle Paul to know that sometimes we carry a "thorn" that hurts and harasses. Although, Paul asked for that thorn to be removed more than once, he ultimately accepted God's perfect plan and purpose for him, even with the thorn still lodged in his side.

I pray that we, too, will readily submit to our King's care. That we would slow down and experience his goodness and grace, and that in spite of our circumstances, good or bad, that we would praise God for EVERYTHING. As one popular worship chorus goes: If you have breath praise the Lord!

God bless you Princess Warriors.

O ye of little faith ... that's been me

Precious Sisters in Christ,

I have been the woman of little faith. This past month, I've allowed the enemy to get the best of me and found myself lowering my shield several times too many.

Just as I prepared to write about the Armor of God, I failed to keep mine in place. When we lose our faith, even for a minute, it's a minute too long. That seemingly insignificant amount of time opens the window of opportunity for the devil. He is sure to strike. His arrows pierce and wound. Thank goodness, THANK GOD, that God is there to heal our wounds, pull us out of the water, and soothe the raging seas around us.

The following scriptures demonstrate so perfectly how Jesus is our Rescuer in times of trouble and the Restorer of our faith. I'm reminded that I'm not the first warrior to lay down her weapons, and I won't be the last. Sadly, centuries ago, the men and women who walked with the Savior in their very midst, struggled with faith. Please, read the following:

Luke 12:27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
Luke 12:28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?


Matthew 8:25 And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.
Matthew 8:26 And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

Matthew 14:30 But when he [Peter] saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
Matthew 14:31 And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

I'm guessing the question you might be asking right about now has to do with my current status. Is my shield raised and ready? It's in my hand (that's an improvement) and I'm raising it higher each day.

I share not only my victories, but also my struggles with you, because I believe it's important as Princess Warriors for Christ to be vulnerable, transparent, and open with our sisters and other believers. During tough times, the devil does everything in his power to convince us to hide. Just as Adam and Eve headed for the fig leaves, we often shut ourselves away from the world and the people that love us. I've done just that. My pride, yes, pride, has kept me from really seeking help. Maybe, you'll recognize this deceitful message: "Goodness, Carol, you're in ministry, a speaker, writer, leader (blah, blah, blah) what would people think of your current lack of faith? You're an encourager. You must keep that smile on. Remember the "Happy all the Time" Mask? Yep, that's the one.

I remember not to long ago reading the following quotes about Mother Teresa from her personal journals:

"I have no Faith - I dare not utter the words & thoughts that crowd in my heart - & make me suffer untold agony," she wrote in an undated letter.

In 1956, she wrote: "Such deep longing for God and ... repulsed empty no faith no love no zeal. ... Heaven means nothing pray for me please that I keep smiling at Him in spite of everything."

Mother Teresa acknowledged the apparent contradiction with per public persona, describing her ever-present smile as "a mask" or "a cloak that covers everything."

Friends, we all struggle. We all doubt. We all lose faith at times. Thankfully, God tells us all we need is a mustard seed to move mountains. Although I grew weary of wielding my shield, I was able to carry that tiny mustard seed in my heart. It was just enough to keep me going; just enough to remind me that God is real and He cares not only about me, but also about you.

If you, too, are in a dark time, wondering where your passionate faith has gone, don't despair! The One who saved you reaches his nail scarred hands toward you, eager to pull you into His embrace. Let us humble ourselves and admit our lack so He can fill us up.

Protection Made Perfect: The Belt of Truth

Stand therefore, having girded your waist with the truth

Thank you Lord for Your truth as described in your Bible. You are truth and You alone set me free from sin and lies. Today, I choose to believe Your truth and about who You are and who I am as Your child. Holy Spirit, lead and guide my thoughts in Your path of truth. Help me to make wise decisions today based on Your Word. Help me to speak the truth in love to myself and others. Let Your truth prevail in all things. Jamee Rae, sharefaith writer

So the belt goes first? Why?

I've discovered that God provides clear directions, including the order of the armor. Putting on the Belt of Truth must come first because all the other pieces are quite useless if we don't believe The Truth. Should we doubt, for any reason, who God is and in what He says, why would we choose to put our faith in Him? Would we dare to raise the Sword of the Spirit without understanding the power of truth?

God's Truth is foundational to our walk as Christian women. The Bible clearly defines our enemy, satan, as the father of lies. Being the exact opposite of God, satan represents everything we must turn from.

Lately, God has been challenging me (again) about the importance of absolute truth. Meaning I can't simply ignore the fact that there are times when I lie by ommission, and other situations where I've been known to fib. See how I want to minimize by using fib rather than lie? Maybe you can relate.

Picture our dear sister in Christ, Maria (name changed to protect the not-so-innocent) who is terrified of hurting other people's feelings. That belief seems noble enough. She doesn't want to hurt anyone's feelings. She cares about people and wants them to feel good about themselves. But is that the whole truth? Actually, Maria really wants people to feel good about her. She's deeply uncomfortable with the idea of others not approving of her. (We've all been Maria a time or two) Her friend continually asks her to babysit. She really wants to attend a weekly Bible study and believes that God has called her to join this particular group. Her husband has encouraged her to take time to fill up on God's Word with other supportive women.

You can probably see where this is going. If Maria tells her friend she needs a day off from babysitting she might inconvenience her friend and earn her disaproval. So rather than being faithful to God, herself, and honoring her husband's wishes, she continues to lie (yes, lie) when her friend asks if she can babysit. The conversation goes something like this.

"Hey, Maria. I really appreciate you babysitting. I've got a ton of errands this week, do you mind keeping the kids again?"

Maria's guts are churning. She is becoming resentful by her friend's ongoing requests and mad at herself for choosing "man" over God and His plan for her. She replies dutifully, "Of course, I'll do it. I love babysitting your children." Lie. Lie. Lie. Maria is completely disnhonest about her feelings and desires.

Next time her friend asks the same question, still to scared to speak the truth, she tries another dishonest route. "I'm so sorry. I can't do it this week, my mom's coming to stay with us and I have so much to do." Lie. Lie. Lie. She makes up an excuse rather than letting her yes's be yes and her no's be no.

Let's rewind the clock and watch Maria stand on the Truth with love.

"I'm not going to be able to babysit on Tuesdays anymore. I'm starting a new Bible study."

That's it. Plain and simple.

I'm so blessed be in a friendship where we don't feel the need to explain ourselves. What freedom! I can call her and she can say, "Can't talk now. Can I call you back?" No explanation or drawn out reason. Simply: I can't talk now. The even better part -- I can do the same with her. We have faith in God and in each other. There is no need to seek approval from each other by being dishonest. We can rest in Christ and the truth that we love and care for each other no matter what.

The reason I'm focussing on these seemingly "little untruths" is that I've heard countless women share their fears in relation to simple truth telling. My concern is how can we possibly stand against the BIG BIG lies of this world, if we are unable to tell the truth in basic daily life with family, friends, coworkers, and even other Christians?

Ladies, as princess warriors, we're not in a popularity contest. Granted we want to be grace-filled, loving, kind, and encouraging, but if we're tossing the Belt of Truth aside so we can lie, we're missing the mark.

Today, when you put on the Belt of Truth, take a minute to focuss on God's amazing truths found in His Word. Then, ask the Holy Spirit to nudge you (in my case maybe shove) when you start to speak an untruth. Ask God to fill you with His truth in every situation and relationship. Ask Him for the courage to seek His approval before the approval of others. After all, it's His approval that truly matters.

Angels in Action

Hello precious princess warriors! It's been far too long. Once again, my life has taken on a life of its own, and I've been beyond busy. Not good -- at all. It's time to slow down, reevaluate my schedule, confirming that what I'm doing is in line what God wants me doing. Although, this time of year, every year, tends to take off at a very rapid pace due to my son's extensive baseball schedule. His games add three evenings of "baseball watching" to my already over-stuffed schedule. But I can't tear myself away from his games. Win or lose, they're always worth watching. And, yes, I like baseball.

Be assured, my Armor of God series will start soon. I promise. Tonight, however, I wanted to tell you about what I believe just might have been an angelic encounter. Really.

First, consider this fascinating scripture -- Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing, some people have entertained angels without knowing it. Heb. 13:2

I've always been awed by the possibility of an angel in my midst. Knowing that God cares enough about us to send supernatural helpers from heaven is more than a little exciting, and definitely thought provoking.

Anyway ... here's just a little background explaining why this encounter was so perfectly timed.

My daughter has been in the middle of a very uncomfortable situation with a friendship turned sour. The mother of the other girl has exhibited some frightening and erratic behavior, now focused on yet another mother who chose to stand for truth rather than being manipulated by an evil, cruel agenda. Of course, the ones suffering the most from the situation are the girls. They want to be friends and work things out, but, unfortunately, this one particular mom is not open to that possibility. Needless to say, it has been difficult for everyone involved. My daughter's dear friend, who is celebrating her birthday today, was extremely upset by some very hurtful comments this other mom made to her mother. She was tearful, confused, and unhappy. I don't blame her. The situation has been hard for me to deal with in a godly manner. Believe me, I'm praying -- a lot. More details aren't important, what's important is that God cares about our children. He cares about us.

I took my daughter and the birthday girl to a movie this evening. They were thrilled to go; yet a thin layer of grief, for changing friendships, seemed to cover the joy, diminishing its glow. As we took our seats, I noticed that my daughter's friend was carrying a large, rolled up, movie poster. It was one of those super fancy ones. You know, the actual movie poster, with glittered lettering to boot. Photographs covered both the front and back side making it an obvious collector's item.

This little girl was beaming. She said, "Some guy came up to me when we were walking in and said happy birthday, and then handed the poster to me." My daughter confirmed this brief encounter. We hurried to thank the kind man. He had vanished -- completely.

We hadn't told anyone at the theater about her birthday. No one but my family and hers knew where we would be (they didn't do it; I checked). No one else there had a poster. The whole thing was just plain strange.

Suddenly, a light (finally) came on and I blurted out what I believe still to be true. "Girls, do you know that God just sent an angel to bless you. You've had a really hard day. You're mom is standing against unkind behavior and feeling attacked. God cares. He knows you're suffering. He knows it's your birthday and that you would love this poster. So, I think He sent an angel to deliver it to you." The moistness in my eyes must have been contagious because they looked teary, too. I quickly called her mom and shared the experience. She, too, cried, believing the gift to be a very tangible gesture of His love for her hurting girl. Wow! Wow! Praise God!

For a just-turned eleven year old this was the perfect gift. God's love touches each one of us in a very unique way that is perfect for our needs. He knows. He cares. He loves.

So, have you ever suspected angelic intervention? If so, please, share your story. I'd love to hear it and share it with my readers. And remember, that there are angels among us. We should be careful to treat each person with dignity and love. God bless you.

A Series of Unfortunate Events and God's Glory

Did you wonder if I fell overboard? Considering my series of "unfortunate events" that would have been a fitting conclusion. Anyway ...

Here's a summary:

Remember, I've been having financial struggles like the rest of the world. Also, I was preparing to speak at a women's event, topic: Dressed for Battle - Becoming a Princess Warrior for Christ. I don't think the devil likes it too much when we stand against him and proclaim God's goodness and glory. Anyway again ....

The list of unfortunate events:

The week prior to the retreat my son was recovering from the flu/coughing nightmare that's going around, my mom (who lives with me) got the stomach yuks -- big time, and was pretty much bedridden in between her trips to kneel at the porcelain throne, or sit upon it.

Then:

1. I got sick and was in bed not able to do my prep work for the retreat and missing important stuff at work.

2. The day of the retreat, still not feeling well, I was running late due to my son's baseball game. After the game, I followed that still small voice that told me to stop into Jiffy Lube to have my oil level and tires checked before heading out of town to Cannon Beach Retreat Center. There, I discovered my car was dry as a brittle bone - no oil. So I had to have some flushing thingie done to get my car oiled up, which was an unexpected cost. Not good with a limited budget. Next, the friendly service guy informed me that my left, rear tire was totally flat and balled. He said, "As a professional, I can't not warn you that this tire is ready to blow. Do not drive over the mountains on this tire. Get it fixed now."

3. Off to Les Schwab's Tire Center I go, already running waaaaaay late for my engagement. I have to wait and wait and wait to get my used tire on, which is more money I hadn't planned on spending. Big sigh.

RETREAT WAS AWESOME. INCREDIBLE. FANTASTIC. GOD IS GLORIFIED. GOD HEALS. GOD DOES MIGHTY THINGS FOR HIS PRECIOUS PRINCESS WARRIORS. I'M BLESSED. THE LADIES ARE BLESSED. ALL IS VERY GOOD. I return home ...

4. Back home exhausted, head to work Monday. Check my bank account and see that it's $200.00 overdrawn due to someone pulling out funds that were not approved to be pulled. I freak out. Cry. Cry. Wail. Finally pray and reach out.

5. Next day have to go to the bank and open a new account; close the old one etc. etc. Big hassle, but it works out. (thank you, God)

6. My daughter calls me later while I'm at work crying. Admits that she broke my flat screen computer monitor. I'm a writer with deadlines etc. I have no money to replace an expensive monitor right now. Try old monitors, none work. I'm frustrated, again.

All this stuff seems rather unfortunate, if you know what I mean. Unexpected. Unpleasing. I remember that I am supposed to praise God no matter what my circumstances. Paul, from a filthy Roman prison praised God. So must I. However, I feel tromped on. But I pray anyway, still grumbling a lot.

Phew! Now remember just a while back - my roof blew off, plumbing issues, major challenges with my daughter at school.

So? What to make of all this ... it's life in a fallen and imperfect world. I can choose to crumble beneath the weight of what feels overwhelming or turn to God for relief. He promises to lighten our load. Yet, He also says there will be trials and tribulations this side of heaven. As I write about this, I'm reminded that although life has been frustrating and inconvenient, He has made a way. I found a three-ton monitor from the year 20 BC that gives graphics a whole new meaning, but I can at least write and do my ministry work now. We have a new roof thanks to home owner's insurance. The toilet flushes (now). My daughter is doing better. We're all feeling healthier. There's hope. There's a promising future. We're saved by the blood of Christ.

If you've lived in this world for any length of time, you, too, understand that our lives can seem overwhelming at times. We wonder if we're wearing a big sign that says: "Go on! Hit me with your best shot." Thankfully, no matter what, if we belong to Christ, there's always hope for a better tomorrow. We have Someone to walk beside us. Someone who will carry us should it become necessary. Someone who died so we can look forward to a future with no more tears, no more pain, no more suffering. Thank you, Jesus!

My unfortunate events may seem to be mere annoyances to some, and looking back, in comparison to what others are facing, they are pretty insignificant. But, I have strange feeling that you can relate to just how VERY BIG those little things can seem at the time.

So, if you're facing trials, tribulations, or temptations, remember God is bigger than all of them. With Him all things truly are possible. We are victorious in Christ. We are overcomers. AMEN!

Watch for my upcoming entries on the Armor of God. After all, when we're dressed for battle, we can expect greater success. God bless you, Princess Warriors.

Celebrate the Sabbath

Peace. Tranquility. Serenity. Ahhhhhh ... calgon take me away. We all yearn for "time out" for rest, for peace. Sure a bubble bath with soothing music hits the spot. Curling up with a good book can be relaxing. Yet there is a commandment that God issued in the Old Testament that is just as applicable today. A commandment that in our hustle and bustle society is often ignored.

Leviticus 23:3 instructs: "Six days shall work be done, but the seventh day is a Sabbath of solemn rest, a holy convocation. You shall do no work on it; its the Sabbath of the Lord in all your dwellings."

Hum. Are you thinking what I'm thinking? That there are far too many times that you fail to obey God's direction. I know I'm guilty.

Thankfully, there are many Sabbaths that I have chosen to follow God's Word. Let me tell you, when I do, I'm blessed -- big time. When I don't, well, that's another story, actually a nightmare.

Taking time out from all our work and busyness to focus on God is far better than any spa retreat. Really. It's true. You might be wondering what exactly should you "do" on the Sabbath. I believe it's an individual/family decision, however, I can share my idea of great Sabbath.

For my family, we have the option of attending church on a Saturday evening, which a majority of the time we do. That way on Sunday we can sleep in and rest our bodies after a busy week. We get up with no agenda and relax as a family. I spend time reading the Bible, journaling prayers, and reading other uplifting Christian literature. We pray and give God thanks for everything. We don't run around, we simply stay home and allow God to renew us during our down time. Ta Da! That's it.

Let me tell you, when I stray from this routine, I start my week off stressed and unrested, feeling overwhelmed and wishing it was the weekend all over again.

I think it's awesome that we serve a King who loves us enough to require that we rest and enjoy His presence. He knows everything about us, including our needs for time with Him and rest for our bodies, minds, and spirits. We weren't created to work seven days a week, twelve hours a day. However, so often that's what we end up doing, and we can't fathom why we're so out of sorts.

Princess Warriors, why not make make time to celebrate the Sabbath? After all, without the Power Source, we will find ourselves powerless.

Resting in the Word

Friends, it's been far too long since I've posted. My life took on a life of its own, if you know what I mean. Almost overnight, my workload at work, in ministry, and home quadrupled. I have some very exciting writing projects in the works and speaking engagements coming up as well.

And, I've broken one of my own rules. Spending an hour (at minimum) with God daily; in His Word, in prayer, and in worship. As I sit here, I realize just how thirsty I am for His Word, for more of Him.

Picture, if you will, those times during the summer months, when we can easily find ourselves in situations that increase our need for cool, refreshing water. Too much heat, hard exercise, or outdoor activities, tend to make us thirsty. In daily life,our busy schedules, family requirements, work projects, and ministry activities increase our need for more of God's supernatural power and thirst-quenching Word. But, amazingly, we often drink less and end up parched for God's refreshment.

If you're in a thirsty-place like I am, stop now and drink deeply. We cannot possibly fulfill our royal duties without God's strength. Sure, we may be able to function for short sprints on our own limited power, but those longer races require more and more of Jesus. Not to mention, "functioning" isn't the same as excelling and overcoming, is it?

I loved the above picture featuring a princess leaning on a sword. It perfectly demonstrates how we, as daughthers of the King, must lean on the Sword of the Spirit -- God's Word -- in order to successfully fulfill our destinies.

Won't you join me, this Monday, as I recommit to time with my Lord, basking in His presence, feasting on His truth, and experiencing His love and grace? He's only a prayer away.

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.

Hurts, Hang ups, and Habits

Hurts, hang ups, and habits: three "H" words we are all plagued by in one form or another.

We all carry hurts from our pasts, struggle with annoying hang ups, and sometimes dangerous habits. As Princess Warriors for Christ, it is critical that we find ways to release our hurts, hang ups, and habits to our King, trading them for freedom, righteousness, and peace.

As I've shared before, in my past, I was held captive by some very serious habits. Addicted to drugs, destructive relationships, and a horrible disposition that included anger, rage, depression, and fear, I wasn't very fun to be around. Needless to say, freedom was but a fantasy until I found my Savior, Jesus Christ. The funny thing, though, as we release and surrender specific H-words that haunt us, more seem to reveal themselves. Kind of like the peeling of an onion, layer after layer, the onion unravels revealing yet another layer. So it is with our lives.

Maybe you've dealt with your tendency to overspend, overeat, overreact, you fill in the blank -- we all over do something, don't we? But I have a suspicion that you, too, like me find that there are still other hurts, hang ups, and habits to deal with.

God has led me into a new season of healing. As a person in leadership, who councils others, and speaks to women, it is easy to focus on others. I love giving away God's glorious goodies. Yet, sometimes, more often would be better, I need to slow down and evaluate the sinfulness that has crept up in my own life.

A few weeks ago, I visited a wonderful, Christ-centered program that helps people deal with their "H words." In fact, that's where I first heard of the horrible H-Trio (hurts, hang ups, and habits). The program, Celebrate Recovery, is designed for any person seeking greater healing and freedom in his or her life. Some of their options are recovery from: chemical dependency and alcohol, food addiction (that's the one I joined), Codependency issues, past hurts and emotional trauma, etc. In other words, there are plenty of places to "fit in." I think a majority of us, if we're honest with ourselves, might be able to relate to more than one category. I know I did.

Certainly, not everyone will like this particular program or format, but I have to say, I've been diving into my Bible and going deeper than ever. That can't be a bad thing! Regardless, we all need others to walk with us on our journey of healing. Like Esther, who had to go through a long year of preparation and training prior to becoming queen, we, too, must prepare to serve our Lord and King as Princess Warriors. This isn't a one time deal, either. It is a process of growth, little by little, that brings us closer to our calling. Once we complete one task successfully, God will surely have more for us to accomplish.

So, again I ask you - what hurts, hang ups, and habits are getting in the way of you successfully reigning real for Christ? Is there an area of bondage, a bad attitude, an unhealthy habit that keeps you from more of Him? Don't try and hide it; find a safe person, program, group, to share and partner with as you prepare to follow Christ to a whole new level. As humans, in a fallen world where sin rules, we need all the help we can get. In order to help others reign real, we must allow others to help us.

If you're interested in learning more about Celebrate Recovery just follow the link.

http://www.celebraterecovery.com/?page_id=4

God bless you Princess Warriors.

Too Busy?

Are you too busy to reign real effectively? Do you bite off more than you can chew? (forgive the cliche') If so, you're not alone by any means. Americans are just plain busy. As Christians, it is tempting to get involved with a ton of "good causes" and "good deeds." I've referred to this for those of us in ministry as "Ministry Madness." Most of us are guilty of doing too much at least some of the time.

I have no clue who wrote the following BUSY summary, but its words are very powerful. I know that I have had to eliminate a few activities from my schedule recently. Hopefully, after reading this, you'll take a look at your own life and evaluate your priorities. If we don't have time for God and our families, we're simply too busy.

Satan called a worldwide convention. In his opening address to his evil agents, he said, “We can’t keep the Christians from going to church. We can’t keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth. We can’t even keep them from forming an intimate, abiding relationship experience in Christ. If they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken. So let them go to the church, let them have their conservative lifestyles, but steal their time, so they can’t gain that relationship with Jesus Christ. This is what I want you to do…distract them from gaining hold their Savior and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!”

“How shall we do this?” Shouted his agents.

“Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds,” he answered. “Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow. Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to works 6 or 7 days a week, 10 to 12 hours a day so they can afford their empty lifestyles. Keep them from spending time with their children. As their family fragments, soon, their homes will offer no escape from the pressure of work!

“Over stimulate their minds so they can’t hear that still small voice. Entice them to play the radio, CD player whenever they drive, and to keep the TV, VCR, DVD Players, CD’s and Computers going constantly in their homes. And see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ.

“Fill the coffee table with magazines, newspapers, and pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day. Invade their driving moments with bill boards; flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogues, and sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering them free products, services, and false hopes.

“Keep skinny, beautiful models on the covers of magazines so the husbands will believe that eternal beauty is what’s important and they’ll become dissatisfied with their wives. Ha! That will fragment those families quickly! Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted, disquieted, and unprepared for the coming week. Don’t let them go out in nature to reflect on God’s wonders, instead, send them to amusement parks, sporting events, concerts, and movies. Keep them busy, busy, busy!

“And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so they leave their meetings with troubled consciences and unsettled emotions.

“Go ahead, let them be involved in winning souls. But, crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Christ. Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause. It will work! It will work!”

It was quite a convention. The evil agents went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get busy, busy, busy, and to rush here and there.

I guess the question is—has the devil been successful with his scheme? You be the judge.

Busy:
B: Being
U: Under
S: Satan’s
Y: Yoke

If you've read this before (I think I may have even posted it in the past) it still serves as good warning. Just because something is good doesn't mean it's God's will. God bless you, Princess Warriors!

Love on the Loose

The month of love continues, with Valentine's Day here tomorrow. I wanted to share a fun give-a-blessing activity that we are doing this month at work to celebrate Valentines' Day. It's kind of like the whole secret Santa game.

First, everyone puts their names in a basket and you conduct a drawing. Ahead of time, each person has completed a general questionnaire where they answered questions like:

Favorite music, books, activities, flowers, candy ... so on. That way you have some idea of your secret valentine's interests. Then you make at least three "contacts" over a specific time period. These so-called contacts involve leaving a card, gift, or treat where that person is sure to find it. I can't tell you how much fun it's been to see what's on my desk, not to mention, sneaking around so I can give my secret pal her gifts.

But who says we have to wait for secret pal games? What if we just picked a friend, co-worker, or family member and became their secret pal? What a blessing we could be for that specific person!

We could call it the Blessing Game! That's right. Choose someone to bless in the coming week. Send positive messages, cards, emails ... etc. Make a cake. This doesn't have to stretch your finances. Most of us have Dollar Trees, or other discount stores around us. What about in your own home? It's amazing how re-gifting or giving something that we have (I'm not talking about dirty socks!) can bless someone else. I'm sure you get the picture by now.

Just imagine the impact if we spent more time blessing others with love: JUST BECAUSE. We'd have a lot of smiling people around, making life a whole lot more pleasant for everyone.

Go on; pick your person. If you plan to participate, why not send me a message to demonstrate you commitment to spreading the love and God's blessings this month. Hopefully, you'll have so much fun your will find ample reasons to do it all over again for someone else!

May God bless each of you and may His blessings be poured upon your life.

The Month of Love ...

Conflict is a part of life; it is a part of human history. A study reported in the Canadian Army Journal regarding the frequency of human conflicts came up with this interesting statistic – since 3600 B.C. the world has only known 292 years of peace. During this period there have been 14,531 wars, large and small, in which 3,640,000,000 people have been killed.

What does conflict have to do with Love? A whole lot if you're a Princess Warrior for Christ attempting to reign real, with love, in a world that is riddled with conflict.

Love is always a big topic during the month of February. After all, the one, the only ... Valentine's Day falls on the 14th of this month. People that don't spend a great deal of time focused on loving are forced to acknowledge its existence for at least one day. For us as daughters of the King, love is is a trait that is to flow through our lives not just one day, but every day! Unfortunately, as fallible human beings, loving doesn't always come naturally or easily. In fact, relationships are just plain hard. Don't I know!

Recently, there was a conflict between my daughter and one of her friends. Being the type that takes very seriously the "don't let the sun go down on your anger" command, I wanted to resolve this situation in the quickest most effective manner. Unfortunately, the situation between the girls deteriorated rapidly. Not good, considering the girls are both in the same classroom. Ten year old girls are at that "tween" stage and gossiping and all that "mean girl" stuff is beginning to rear its ugliness. Both girls nabbed their own "supporters" and the battle was on.

To make a long story short (forgive the cliche') I tried to intervene with the mother, who is a big fan of let's just pretend the other person doesn't exist all in the name of personal boundaries. So we've got her daughter ignoring mine and my daughter obsessively pushing for reconciliation. Somewhere in the middle there was a place of balance that we all managed to miss.

Sadly, the other mom and myself had a not-so-nice conversation. I stopped loving and started responding in anger. Granted, I felt strongly about her opinion, but as a Christian woman I am required to act differently than women in the world. For a few brief minutes, during a heated phone conversation, I didn't represent my King very well. What she said may not have been okay, but that's not the point. I'm to exhibit love and compassion. I became a defensive mama bear. Needless to say, we both had our claws out and the phone call didn't end well. At all.

Although, that sinful human side of me wants to plead my case to anyone who will listen, I have chosen to seek support solely from my mother and one close friend. Although I don't like her behavior (nor mine) it is critical that I take this situation to Christ and pray for blessings on her and her family. Not easy to do in the midst of conflict.

Conflict. No semi-sane person enjoys it. But every person at some time or another will be in the middle of it. The above statistics make that quite clear. However, our goal as Princess Warriors is the fight the right battle. Love is our best weapon. On our knees in prayer is the preferred battle stance. Sisters, let us remember to forgive, love, and pray. We can go to God with all our complaints and feelings rather than gossiping to others. We can clean up our side of the street regardless of what dirt remains on the other side.

I'm guessing you might have a current conflict, or have had one in the recent past. If so, how are you handling everything? Are you using the right weapons? If not, maybe you, like me, need to ask for God's love to diffuse the negative situation.

Right now, I'm reading a wonderful book about resolving conflict by Joyce Meyers. I highly recommend it to anyone. Based on Scripture, Joyce shares wisdom and provides a plan of action to help you release conflict and avoid strife. http://www.amazon.com/Conflict-Free-Living-Joyce-Meyer/dp/1599790629 is the link to Amazon's page about this title if you're interested.

Let us love without limits as Princess Warriors for Christ.

Watch for more posts on love in the days ahead.

My background vanished!

Please be patient. Something strange has happened to my background. It appears to have disapeared. I'll try and fix tomorrow.

God bless you!

A Strong Woman vs. A Woman of Strength

STRONG WOMAN VERSUS A WOMAN OF STRENGTH
Author Unknown

A strong woman works out every day to keep her body in shape ... but a woman of strength kneels in prayer to keep her soul in shape...

A strong woman isn’t afraid of anything ... but a woman of strength shows courage in the midst of her fear...

A strong woman won’t let anyone get the best of her ... but a woman of strength gives the best of herself to everyone...

A strong woman makes mistakes and avoids the same in the future... a woman of strength realizes life’s mistakes can also be God’s blessings and capitalizes on them...

A strong woman walks sure footed... but a woman of strength knows God will catch her when she falls...

A strong woman wears the look of confidence on her face... but a woman of strength wears grace...

A strong woman has faith that she is strong enough for the journey... but a woman of strength has faith that it is in the journey that she will become strong...

When I discovered this short, but powerful message, I knew I had to share it with all of you. It's so easy as Christian women to feel like we have to do everything and anything. Often times, we are juggling family, career, ministry, education, children's activities, friendships, volunteer work ... the list could go on and on. As Princess Warriors for Christ, we are given two very specific New Testament Commandments: Love God. Love Others. If we're too busy to love -- we're too busy.

The above message could be titled: Wonder Woman vs. A Woman of God. We don't have super-hero powers, but we do have a supernatural God with powers galore. We have to sometimes be reminded that in order to be a woman of strength, we need to make time in our hectic schedules to draw close to the Power Source. Reigning Real isn't possible apart from God's strength.

Do you need to slow down? Retire your Wonder Woman cape? If so, you're not alone. We're all tempted to do it all at one time or another. This is just a reminder to you and I that we're not called nor are we created to be everything to everyone. We are commanded to Love God and Love Others. Let us turn to our King for the power we need to be women of strength. Amen!?

Fear: False Evidence Appearing Real

Survivor Eva Hart remembers the night, April 15, 1912, on which the Titanic plunged 12,000 feet to the Atlantic floor, some two hours and forty minutes after an iceberg tore a 300-foot gash in the starboard side: "I saw all the horror of its sinking, and I heard, even more dreadful, the cries of drowning people."

Although twenty life-boats and rafts were launched-too few and only partly filled-most of the passengers ended up struggling in the icy seas while those in the boats waited a safe distance away. Lifeboat No. 14 did row back to the scene after the unsinkable ship slipped from sight at 2:20 A.m. Alone, it chased cries in the darkness, seeking and saving a precious few.

Incredibly, no other boat joined it. Some were already overloaded, but in virtually every other boat, those already saved rowed their half-filled boats aimlessly in the night, listening to the cries of the lost. Each feared a crush of unknown swimmers would cling to their craft, eventually swamping it.

"I came to seek and to save the lost," our Savior said. And he commissioned us to do the same. But we face a large obstacle: fear. While people drown in the treacherous waters around us, we are tempted to stay dry and make certain no one rocks the boat.

Any boat in your life that needs a good rocking?

Also, I was thinking about how God's Word states that He (God) will give His angels charge over us to help protect us. Sometimes, I forget that as a believer there is a heavenly army fighting on my behalf according to God's plan and purpose. The above painting so perfectly illustrates that truth. Consider the first words of the angelic encounters in the Bible: "Do not fear ... " Let us heed God's words. Fear need not paralyze us. We can step forward in faith, knowing that God is stepping with us.

From Fragrant to Foul

I have to tell you, praising God every moment can be just a tad challenging when your roof is falling down around you -- literally. I live in Oregon, at the mouth of the Columbia River Gorge. Although beautiful, this is the place where all the news trucks gather during inclement weather. And we've had our fair share of inclement weather this year.

We survived the heaviest snow fall since the 1950's and this week has brought a whole new blast ... of WIND. We've had house-shaking, window-rattling, gusts over 50 mph. For two nights we huddled together as our roof collapsed around us. The fence toppled over too. Praise God we have good homeowners' insurance. I can't imagine living in the Midwest or along the coastal ranges where high winds and tornado's make frequent visits. Actually, I'm already eager for spring.

Now that you know where I've been and what's happened, I want explore how -- what initially seems fragrant can ultimately turn foul.

The other day, at work, one of my clients came into my office for a counseling session. As she sat nearby, I noticed a very unique, yet pleasing fragrance. She explained it was a new perfume. She raised her wrist, giving me the opportunity to get a closer whiff. (You know, like taking a closer look!)

We continued talking. Then, unexpectedly, something surprising happened. The appealing fragrance became rather revolting. I tried my best not to gag in front of my client (a small cough managed to escape). My eyes started to water, and I could barely tolerate the perfume that had become nauseatingly vile. It had turned from fragrant to foul in less than thirty minutes.

Thankfully, she had to leave and I rushed to open my window. The fresh (freezing) air worked its way through my office. Eventually, the remaining stench was vanquished for good.

Why am I sharing this story? Maybe it's already obvious what direction we're headed. Regardless, please stay with me. The message, if familiar, will serve as a good (godly)reminder.

Consider sin. Any sin. Eeny, meeny, miny, moe ... let's go with over eating. Yes, a sin that I struggle with on regular basis. A sin that is prevalent in our fast food, super-sized nation. I don't know many women who haven't faced the "to eat or not to eat just one more bite" dilemma.

It starts something like this: Work was really hard today. My boss wasn't nice. I couldn't get my paperwork done. Clients were ultra-challenging. My co-worker stole all the glory for our completed project. I'm so-o-o-o stressed out. Ah ha! I still have that birthday cake ice cream in the freezer. (Of course I do. I hid the carton behind the frozen vegetables so no one would find it) Anyway, I lounge in my favorite chair, feet up, and dig into my bowl of heaping cold sweetness. Those little added pieces of cake make the treat double tasty. Scrumptious!

I complete the dish and feel satisfied. Sure, I have this nagging feeling that maybe I should have talked to God about my "bad day," but the ice cream seemed to do the trick. And ... considering how yummy and soothing the first bowl was maybe another bowl would make me feel even better.

After gagging down the second dish, I realize that I didn't even taste the little pieces of fluffy cake. In fact, I don't even remember eating the second serving. I feel nauseous, depressed, and my stress level has risen to a whole new level of unmanageably. What happened? The simple snack turned into a foul feeding frenzy. I've committed several obvious sins -- gluttony, idolatry, lack of faith, rebellion ... you get the picture. Oh, and the initial problem wasn't solved at all.

When we sin, no matter how insignificant the the action might seem, there is a pattern in place. In the beginning, we experience pleasure. To put it another way ... it seems so fragrant. Yet at some point, it turns foul. You simply cannot turn crabgrass into a rose bush no matter how hard you try. The pesky weed spreads through the lawn making the grass look un-kept. Sin spreads through our lives, and no amount of trying harder or pretending will make things better.

Thankfully, we have God. Like the fresh air that whisked away the putrid perfume from my office, Jesus Christ wipes away our sins. As Princess Warriors for Christ, we can open our hearts and let the cleansing power of God remove any foulness from our lives. He is always fragrant. His ways are fresh, clean, and redeeming.

I guess the question is: What things in your life have gone from fragrant to foul? Is it time to invite God to do a new work in your heart? I know that everyday is a day that I need His forgiveness and grace. In our weaknesses He is strong. When we are inadequate He is more than adequate. His mercy is new every morning.

Lord, so often I seek what I know won't relieve the pain in my heart. I tell myself that it looks, smells, feels, or tastes good. I imagine that just a little of this and a little of that will somehow mend the ache in my soul, an ache that only you can heal. I know the truth; yet at times I believe the lie. Forgive me for seeking what turns foul.

For a moment, sin may seem fun, but it can never bring joy. You alone are the source of my joy. You are my hope and my future. In You, I Iive, breathe and have my being.

Your Word reminds us that we don't live on bread alone but every word that comes from You. What the world offers is never enough. Help me remember that You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life. In Jesus' Name I pray. Amen. Love Your daughter, Your princess warrior.

Loving Life

Ladies, my topic today may tug at your heart strings in some unexpected ways.

If you've been visiting my blog for any length of time, at some point you've likely heard (read!) me referring to Bethany House, a specialized maternity program for single, expectant, young ladies.

I've been on their Board, currently serve as their Outreach Coordinator and Spokesperson, Grant Writer, Fundraiser ... a number of overlapping positions. Life is important to me. I believe everyone is created in God's image and that He has a plan and purpose for all His creations. That of course includes you and I. I've also done a number of speaking events focused on this topic and have written several articles relating to the painful effects of abortion and God's amazing forgiveness.

Maybe you've experienced the horrors of abortion or know someone who has endured the pain of making a decision to end their baby's life. There's no comfortable way to talk about this subject. Unfortunately, it's a reality for more women that we can imagine, many professing Christians.

Sadly, many such women (and I was one of them) saw myself as an unforgivable failure. I somehow believed that abortion was the one sin that God simply could not or would not forgive. After becoming a Christian, my head understood that His grace covered everything, including abortion, but my heart said otherwise.

As Princess Warriors for Christ, it is imperative that those of us who have chosen abortion fully embrace God's forgiveness and love. For others, who have not made this tragic decision, you, too, can learn how to gently guide wounded women into the arms of the Savior.

Please click here to read my latest article - Tears to Triumph - on Campus Crusade for Christ's newest online magazine -- The Life. http://thelife.com/experience/life/redeemabortion/

Also, if you live in Oregon, on the evening of January 22, 2009, Rolling Hills Community Church is hosting a very special movie and pro-life event. A wide range of ministries will be on hand, including Bethany House. This is a family appropriate event. To learn more, visit: http://comewhatmaypdx.com

Please consider this acronym for GRACE:

G: God

R: Redeems

A: Abortion

C: (with a) Compassionate

E: Embrace

Are you keeping up on confession?

Greetings Princess Warriors!

Are you as close to God as you'd like? Do you feel connected to Him? Or is a seemingly insurmountable wall keeping you from drawing closer to your King?

If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you may want to make sure that you are "current" with confession.

Let me explain! So often, we hurry through our lives and on some days we fail to confess our sins to Him. If too many days add up, the Holy Spirit prompts us to get busy and get confessing. Imagine if you failed to brush your teeth. After a few days, your mouth would feel more than a little disgusting and gross. You'd hopefully get busy brushing. So it is with sin, but on a much more serious level. When we fail to awknowledge and release our mishaps to God, we start to feel guilty and out-of-balance. Our enemy, the devil, is quick to shoot his fiery darts our way when we fail to let go of our secrets.

For some of us, we have secrets we've held on to for months, years, even decades. Like a splinter buried beneath your flesh, these secrets will fester if left unattended and unremoved.

God's Word gives us example after example of men and women who have confessed their sin and returned to right standing with their King. Jesus Christ sacrificed His life in order for us to be free from sin and death. Yet, for some reason, we still cling to sour emotions and sinful secrets, refusing to release them into our Savior's capable hands. Believe me, I've done this more than once. (More than a few times)

Sisters, please don't wait another moment. Turn to God and share everything with HIm. After all, His Word says the following:

If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from every wrong. 1 John 1:9

People who cover over their sins will not prosper. But if they confess and forsake them, they will receive mercy. Proverbs 28:13

Oh, what joy for those whose rebellion is forgiven, whose sin is put out of sight! Yes, what joy for those whose record the LORD has cleared of sin, whose lives are lived in complete honesty!

When I refused to confess my sin, I was weak and miserable, and I groaned all day long. Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me. My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

Finally I confessed all my sins to you and stopped trying to hide them. I said to myself, "I will confess my rebellion to the LORD ." And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.

Therefore, let all the godly confess their rebellion to you while there is time, that they may not drown in the floodwaters of judgment. Psalm 32:1-6

Extreme Makeover for the New Year

Don't you love a professional makeover? getting your nails done? relaxing as a hairdresser washes your hair? Ah-h-h-h Good stuff!

I remember as a teenager the fun my friends and I had playing around with cosmetics and making ourselves into gorgeous and glamorous gals all with innovative makeup techniques and hair style products. Sometimes we were a little too creative. But, hey, it was fun. After all, having a new fresh face feels good; helping a friend achieve a new look can be pretty exhilarating, too.

Not only do I enjoy a personal makeover, but also I thoroughly enjoy watching those TV makeover shows. On the original Extreme Makeover, a team of specialists redesigned their clients in some pretty drastic ways, including surgery to correct or enhance their physical appearance. Today, we have the Extreme Home Makeovers where a family's home receives a much-needed face lift. In both cases, the results are dramatic, even jaw-dropping. I must admit that I've shed a tear or two over the incredible changes produced on these shows. But ...

There is an Extreme Makeover that far exceeds and outshines the above examples. That's right, it gets better! As Christians, we receive the best makeover of all, by the best Creator, Artist, and Designer of all -- Jesus Christ!

2 Corinthians 5:17 tells us: If anyone is in Christ, he/she is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

We're not talking about an old outdated hairstyle getting an "upgrade." Oh, no, we're talking about a complete and total mind, body, and soul makeover. This isn't an improved version of the old. God's Word tells us we are totally NEW CREATIONS IN CHRIST.

The old is gone. Gone. We are brand new ... born again.

It's so common this time of year to start making those New Year's resolutions. Many of us seek out information to help us make the changes we desire. But, friends, as my pastor put it so perfectly this past weekend -- Mere information won't bring life transformation.

That truth hit my heart right on target. The only book that truly is alive is God's Word. Within its pages we will discover what it means to be new creations and how to live out our new identities right here, right now. Yes, the Bible is a book with information, yet a story of complete and total transformation in Christ. You can experience your very own transformation story.

Keep in mind, when Christ makes us over, we might not see the visible work right away like we do with a home makeover or face lift, but, over time, our "newness" will shine through in our character; we will produce the fruit of our new nature -- The Fruit of the Spirit. And amazingly, for many of us, our outsides start changing right a long with our insides.

Friends, receiving a master makeover from the Master Makeover Artist is reason to cry tears of joy and celebrate for eternity.

I usually don't share the following photograph, but a picture is worth a thousand words, right? You might remember me sharing that before Christ I was addicted to heroin, cocaine, cigarettes, destructive and promiscuous relationships, and a ton of other sinful junk. It's been eleven years, this month, since I've used drugs and I've been walking in sexual purity for almost as long. Oh, the cigarettes went goodbye around the same time, too. Praise God!

In Revelation we are told that the enemy, our enemy, the devil, is defeated by the blood of the lamb and the word of our testimony. I guess a simple paraphrase might be: Our extreme makeovers inspire others to turn their lives over to the Master Creator. If you feel like God can't change you. You're wrong. He can. He will, if you'll let Him.


Carol before Christ: Not a pretty picture. Addiction is not attractive. Eventually, our rotting insides (that's what sin does rots our souls) become visible on the outside.

Keep going ...

To see the after Christ photo.

Carol (me) now ... after the ultimate Makeover. Yes, I'm wearing Princess Warrior attire -- Crown, Scepter, and Sword (all the royal trimmings). After all, in Christ, we're royalty!


Don't give up. Let God make you over into the woman He's called you to be. 2009 is a great year for a fresh start.

God bless you!