My New Website

http://princesswarriorsforchrist.com/

I'm excited to announce my new ministry website. Just click the above link and take a peek. If you are interested in having me as a speaker for your women's event and would like to learn more about my mission as a speaker and author, this is the place to visit.

Tis the Season for Thanksgiving

Happy late Thanksgiving. Although, I'm not really late am I? For being thankful is something we can celebrate every day. Amen!?

I hope your day was as wonderful as mine. I'm going to move in different direction and share a clean Thanksgiving joke. It had me in stitches. My kids just looked at me like, "duh." They didn't get it the first time around.

Here we go:

The Parrot

A young man named John received a parrot as a gift. The parrot had a bad attitude and an even worse vocabulary. Every word out of the bird's mouth was rude, obnoxious, and laced with profanity. John tried and tried to change the bird's attitude by consistently saying only polite words, playing soft music, and anything else he could think of to "clean up" the bird's vocabulary.

Finally, John was fed up, and he yelled at the parrot. The parrot yelled back. John shook the parrot, and the parrot got angrier, more profane and even more rude. John, in desperation, threw up his hand, grabbed the bird, and put him in the freezer.

For a few minutes the parrot squawked and kicked and screamed. Then suddenly there was total quiet. Not a peep was heard for over a minute. Fearing that he'd hurt the parrot, John quickly opened the door to the freezer.

The parrot calmly stepped out onto John's outstretched arms and said, "I believe I may have offended you with my rude language and actions. I'm sincerely remorseful for my inappropriate transgressions and I fully intend to do everything I can to correct my rude and unforgivable behavior."

John was stunned at the change in the bird's attitude. As he was about to ask the parrot what had made such a dramatic change in his behavior, the bird continued, "May I ask what the turkey did?"

I bet that bird was thankful for his new found freedom! I, too, am forever thankful for my freedom in Christ. This Thanksgiving, my daughter suggested a fantastic idea that I will implement often, not just on holidays.

As we sat eating our yummy food, she suggested that we play a little game. One by one, we had to go around the table and say something we were thankful for for each letter in the alphabet. Some of our answers were a bit silly considering the letter, but, overall, some amazing things were revealed. Please, give it a try. If all else fails, you can do this yourself in a journal. List those letters and go for it! You'll be amazed by your gratitude.

Lastly, I read a story about a little boy, age 11, who was dying from cancer. His doctor gave him two weeks to live. Many of you may have already read this, but, if not, I encourage you to take in the gracious giving heart of a boy. As we kick off the whole holiday season with a bang, we can be encouraged by the true meaning of giving selflessly.

http://www.bellaonline.com/ArticlesP/art2452.asp

A Princess Warrior's Words

Don't let Satan hijack your words (tongue)!

I know. The picture is REALLY unsettling. But I feel like God is REALLY trying to get my attention and maybe yours, too. I suspect this disgusting picture did just that.

However, it makes a powerful statement, doesn't it? Sometimes, maybe more than we'd care to admit, what comes out of our mouths is just as disgusting. The book of James talks about that one little organ -- our tongue -- causing so many problems. What we say cannot be erased ... ever. Once said, always said. Certainly, we can apologize for our misspoken words and confess, yet the consequences may remain far into the future as scars on another person's heart.

This time of year, for a number of reasons, people tend to get more stressed. Holidays can bring out the worst in some folks. Maybe, for whatever reason, it brings out some ickiness in you. For me, my finances are tighter than most years. I vacillate between trusting God as my Provider and attempting to figure money stuff out on my own. You can probably guess that on my own, I don't do so well. Stress can quickly escalate into words that seem to pop (or as in the above picture) slither out of our mouths. For what resides inside seems to spill into the world around us.

At church this past weekend, our pastor, Mr. Creative, himself, walked around the room with a big canvass bag. He asked us unsuspecting church goers to stick our hands in and see if we could figure out what lay inside. Well, being a daring Princess Warrior, I took the "feel" challenge. Ew-w-w-e! A nasty slimy blob resided in that bag. Please Note: He did provide a squirt of hand sanitizer following each person's turn.

Are you wondering what this was? I sure was. Our pastor used to be a youth pastor so he is very adept at using highly visual and impacting illustrations to make a point. Okay, okay ... it was a cow tongue. Seriously. Well-washed and cleaned up, but still a big, gross, ugly tongue. Can you guess what he was talking about? Uh huh ... the harm a tongue can cause. He waved that thing around and we all had a very powerful reminder of what a tongue can do. So powerful, I'm still sharing about it.

The lesson was good, though. We have got to stop wounding others with our words. Praise God if you don't have an issue with this. If that's the case, I challenge you to pray for those of us that do. Although, considering this was a topic God saw fit to include in the Bible, I suspect most of us struggle with it now and again.

So, what do we do?

Even though it sometimes feels like words just explode from our mouths without a sane thought on our part, there is always a preceding thought and time to make a choice. I know in the heat of the battle it can be difficult to push the PAUSE BUTTON. But that is exactly what we need to do.

My daughter came home this summer from church camp wearing a pin-on-button that said PAUSE. This button was to serve as a reminder for her to think before acting. Friends, we all need a pause button. If purchasing a button helps ... do it. After all, Jesus tells us to cut off our hand if it causes us to sin. Personally, I'd prefer wearing a button over loosing my tongue.

All humor aside. We've all been wounded by words and we've all injured others. Keeping our mouths clean is a must for every Princess Warrior for Christ.

Practical Tips:

1. Pray for God's supernatural help and strength to help you pause before speaking.

2. If you have to, cover your mouth with your hand and/or walk away rather than blurting out something unsavory.

3. Ask if what you plan to say would glorify God.

4. Make sure everything that comes out of your mouth is encouraging to others.

5. Ask if you'd say that if you were face to face with Jesus. (Ouch!)

6. Manage your stress ahead of time by spending time in prayer, worship, and talking with others about your problems. By alleviating stress you will be better equipped to converse calmly without anxiety and worry tainting your words.

7. When you mess up. (Not if, when) Admit your mistake, immediately. Ask God for forgiveness and repent. Turn again from your sin and move forward, making restitution for any harm caused.

I've fallen short a lot in this area, lately. My daughter is really good at pushing buttons other than the Pause Button, if you know what I mean. She is experienced at pushing my personal buttons. It's time for me to disengage those buttons and respond as Christ would, with love and truth, balanced and in harmony with each other.

We belong to a royal priesthood, a holy nation of God. Our words matter. We can use our mouths to bless or curse. Let's choose to bless. Amen?!

Happy early Thanksgiving.

Hear the Battle Cry!

http://sermoncentral.sermonspice.com/videos/1144/battle-cry

Please watch the above video clip.

I think sometimes we forget the warrior part of our identity. We forget that sometimes as Princess Warriors for Christ we have get tough and fight for our King's truth. What we believe may not be popular. What we say may not be well-received. What we do may be ridiculed. We are not of this world. We belong to another. Yet, so often, we spend our time overwhelmed by what's happening around us, instead of fighting the good fight, we get stuck feeling like we have no power and that we must accept the world as it is. So not true!

Friends, we serve a mighty God. His power is accessible to us. He gives us a sword -- His Word -- to defeat darkness.

Jesus faced the devil in a historic showdown in the desert when he was hungry (starving) and exhausted. The enemy tempted him with everything the world had to offer, yet, Jesus was able to defeat temptation from the master tempter by wielding the ultimate weapon -- God's powerful and eternal Word. The spoken Word of God forced the enemy to flee.

Yes, we are to love, but that doesn't mean we aren't supposed to fight. We can stand against our true enemy -- satan. Our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and dark powers of this age.

Is it time for a Armor check up? We make sure (well, most of the time) that our cars are fuelled and have received their 3,000 mile oil change. If our brakes aren't working, we get them repaired.

As this world continues to spiral into chaos, it is more important than ever that our Armor is battle ready. Is yours polished? Ready for battle? More importantly, are you putting it on? Every day?

I'd like to share the following prayer that has helped me visualize putting on the Armor of God. These are not words to simply say, but to believe ... to live by.

Dear Lord, I come before you today to put on the spiritual armor that you have so graciously provided for your Princess Warriors. First, I put on the Belt of Truth, buckled securely around my waist, for it is Your truth that sets me free. I then put on the Breastplate of Righteousness that covers my heart and emotions and shows I am in right standing with You. My feet are shod in the preparation of the Gospel of Peace, and I take those feet and I bring peace and love, not anger and discord where I tread this day. I grasp the Shield of Faith and use it to quench every fiery arrow the devil may fire at me, and I take the Sword of the Spirit, which is your precious and powerful Word and I use it to pierce through the enemy’s wicked plans. For Your Word states, all I must do is submit myself to You, and tell the devil to flee, and he must go. I choose to follow You this day, my Heavenly King. May I serve You with joy and perseverance, living boldly and lovingly as Your Princess Warrior. In Jesus’ Mighty Name, I pray, Amen.

Ladies, we can be victorious. Let's us raise our swords and stand for our King.

One Big Fluke ... or a Miracle?

September 4, 1990, was the beginning of a new era for the Ellison Family of Long Island. It was mom Jean’s first day of a new teaching job, and daughter Brooke’s first day of seventh grade. But things didn’t unfold as planned. Brook was hit by a car that day, and a different story of a Mother’s dedication unfolded.

In the following years, Jean stood by her daughter through paraplegia, through her fight to stay in a regular Jr High, and even lived 4 years in a dorm room with Brooke so she could graduate from Harvard.

In Brooke’s 2000 Harvard Graduation speech she says, "Ten years ago, I was hit by a car. No one expected me to live. I have been paralyzed from the neck down and on a respirator since that time. Tomorrow, I will graduate from Harvard. Miracles happen. They have happened to me and they are happening to you. You need only to look at the people in your lives in order to see them." Brooke only needed to look at her Mother, a woman who had made one of God’s miracles incarnate in her life. SOURCE: SermonCentral staff. Citation: Brooke and Jean Ellison. Miracles Happen: One Mother, One Daughter, One Journey. New York: Hyperion, 2001

I have to admit when I read this story I choked back a few tears. Miracles come in so many shapes and sizes.

Have you ever wondered how in the world the ancient Israelites walked through a sea parted by God's very hand, yet later forgot He could deliver them? Manna from heaven, water from a rock, a pillar of fire ... the miracles just kept coming, yet God's people just kept disbelieving and doubting Him. Did they think it was a fluke of some sort that the waters receded for them then crashed over their enemies?

It's crucial as princess warriors that we keep our eyes open to the miracles that God is performing around us even today. For me, when my faith starts to wane, I find that reviewing the incredible things that God has done in my life helps me get back on track. That's why I keep a journal full of prayers and gratitude lists.

For some reason, we have a forgetting problem. Our ancestors did, and we do, too. When life gets hard, many of us find ourselves quickly loosing sight of all God has done in us, around us, through us, and for us.

He's at work, always. I didn't walk through the ocean on dry land, or walk on water like Peter, but I was able, with God's power to give up a life of drugs, promiscuity, and destruction. People who knew me "way back when" can't believe who I am today. (and I don't just mean the extra pounds I've added) When you practically lived with the motto: Sex, Drugs, and Rock n Roll tattooed on your forehead (not literally, of course) and now you're praising God with Jesus Christ tattooed on your heart, well, that's a miracle.

I want to challenge you, today, take a moment, and list each and every miracle that you've experienced in your own life and others that you've seen or know about. Keep your list somewhere where you can easily refer to it when you are facing times of faithlessness.

God bless you, sisters!

Thank you Princess Partners

This is a note for those of you who faithfully visit this blog. Thank you so much for your kind words, encouragement, and prayers. I am honored that you have chosen to become Princess Partners and follow this blog on a regular basis.


I believe it is important to say thank you ... a lot. So, thank you! Although I can't send flowers and candy to all of you, just know that if I could, I'd make the above picture a reality.

What I can do, though, is pray for you. May God continue to bless you richly and beyond measure. I look forward to sharing more of the Princess Warrior journey with you.

Happy Birthday to me (and you, too)

It's the BIG DAY. You know. That time once a year when we are reminded of our birth day or as we refer to it now ... birthday.

If we're lucky, we can look back on the past year and rejoice over the exciting things that have happened in our lives. However, for some of us, a birthday can serve as a reminder of all those things we haven't accomplished, that career we never captured, dreams seemingly lost forever.

Simply celebrating our special day in the midst of trials and tribulations isn't always fun. Thankfully, though, no matter that the occasion, if we're daughters of the King we can celebrate and rejoice no matter what our circumstances. (I'll get to that in a moment)

For me, today has been, honesty here, not so lovely. My sixteen year old son chose today of all days to dump a load of sour emotions on me. What he said hurt, a lot. I cried. Actually, I sobbed. For me I'm already tender on my birthday because I'm adopted. This is the time of year when I wonder about my birth parents, and possible siblings.

Finances have been tight for us, like so many other families, so I instituted a no gift rule for me. No big out to dinner event or fanfare this year. Surprisingly, and kind of embarrassingly, I found myself a bit down about my lack of gifts. Hey, I just wanted the Mandisa Christmas CD! I guess it was a lose lose situation; because had they got a present for me, I probably would have chastised them. ANYWAY, I was feeling pretty blue by the time I got to church. I was feeling bad about my past mistakes and wishing I'd accomplished more in my forty-four years on this planet.

Then, God spoke like He so often does through our pastor and tonight's message. Can you believe they even talked about letting go of past mistakes and allowing God to do what He does so well: use them for His Kingdom glory? Humph. Over the course of the evening, I was reminded how when we are adopted into God's Kingdom we are reborn. That's right! A whole new "birthday" for us. Once we're His, we remain His, forever.

I started to mentally tally up all the many ways God has blessed me. He have given me more gifts in my lifetime than I deserve. He has delivered me from my past and allowed me to minister to hurting people, especially, other women. He has turned my ashes into rejoicing over His gift of salvation. He has elevated me from a pauper to a Princess Warrior. So, I had a hard day, actually, a hard couple of weeks, oh well. I have an eternity to look forward to in His presence.

Another thing that happened tonight was I made sure to keep all masks off. (You might want to review past entries about removing false faces) That's right. I was real about my less than perfect day. When people asked how I was, I was honest. No, I didn't vomit (sorry for the graphic word use, but it really gives a good visual) my emotions all over the place, I simply said that I'd had better days and that I was a little raw emotionally. The support and love I received was priceless. Talk about a gift! God gives us precious men and women of God to help lift our spirits when we are down. But we have to reach out, remove our masks, and push our pride aside.

A Princess Warrior for Christ can admit when things are less than perfect and she can ask for help. She can also rejoice in her King no matter how she feels. After all, we have received the best gift of all -- forgiveness for our sins -- past, present, and future. As well as, an eternity in the royalist of royal kingdoms ever.

Our hope must rest not on the temporary gifts and good feelings of this earth, but on our God and His incredible plans for us. So, sisters, let us rejoice and be glad for God is good all the time.

I HOPE YOU ENJOY THE FOLLOWING BIRTHDAY STORY:

A man told a story about the time his son’s sixth birthday was approaching. He had mentioned he wouldn’t mind a party, and as his son usually was very specific about the kind of presents he liked the dad asked him what he could get him. Bill expected a well-planned reply, such as "I’d like a baseball glove; you can find it at Toys ‘R ‘Us, aisle 6, below the batting helmets, or a Parcheesi board; the games are in alphabetical order in aisle 1; it’s between the Pac Man and Pay Day."

But his son’s request was a bit different. He said, "Dad, I’d like a ball to play with for my birthday." Bill said "Great, what kind of ball?" "Oh, I want don’t know, either a football or a soccer ball." "Well, which would you want more?" He said, "Wellll," and thought about it. Then he said. "If you have some time to play ball with me this year, I’d really like a football so we could throw it back and forth in the back yard. But if you’re gonna be real busy this year, maybe you just better get me a soccer ball, because I can play soccer with the rest of the kids in the neighborhood." The dad thought about this and said, "Let me surprise you. How does that sound?" And the little boy smiled and said, "Oh that would be great Dad. I really love you."

Then Bill went in and shared this little encounter with his wife and together they agreed, their son was not so much interested in the gift. He was interested in the giver. (Autoillustrator.com, "WORSHIP")

Pampered Princess: Stop Judging Others!

Do you ever find yourself feeling a bit "better than" those other worldly people? After all, we're Christian royalty, right? Well, Christ is the "royalist" of all the royalty and he spends more time serving than being served. Unlike the religious teachers of His time, He was comfortable in the presence of everyone. Can we say the same? I know that often times I fall short in this area.

In relation to this topic, I found the following little illustration and wanted to share it with you. I hope it serves as good reminder to not judge a book by its cover. God is the only one who can see our hearts. As Princess Warriors for Christ, we best be loving rather than judging. Amen!?


"Judging Books! (10.20.05--That Person!--Esther 3:5-6) The other day, a Jehovah's’s witness came to my door. I’ve seen them many times in the past as they slowly travel down my driveway and descend upon my doorbell. I know what differentiates my faith from theirs and have learned stock answers to their statements that usually sends them packing in a matter of minutes.

But, this time it was different. When I opened the door I actually looked into the eyes of the middle-aged man who stood with a an open tract in his hands and saw not the enemy, but a man just like me. Maybe his car had broken down yesterday or perhaps he and his wife had had words that morning. I didn’t know. But I was compelled somehow to shake his hand and invite him in.

I had been thinking about the following story. A schoolteacher decided to travel across America and see the sights she had taught about. Traveling alone in a truck with camper in tow, she launched out. One afternoon a water pump blew on her truck. She was tired, exasperated, scared, and alone. No one seemed interested in helping. Leaning up against the trailer, she prayed, “Please God, send me an angel, preferably one with mechanical experience.”

Within four minutes, a huge Harley drove up, ridden by an enormous man sporting long, black hair, a beard and tattooed arms. He jumped off and went to work on the truck. Within another few minutes, he flagged down a larger truck, attached a tow chain to the frame of the disabled Chevy, and whisked the whole 56-foot rig off the freeway onto a side street, where he calmly continued to work on the water pump.

The intimidated schoolteacher was too dumbfounded to talk. As he finished the task, she finally got up the courage to say, “Thanks so much.” Noticing her surprise, he looked her straight in the eye and mumbled, “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” With that, he smiled, closed the hood of the truck, and straddled his Harley. With a wave, he was gone as fast as he had appeared. (Larry D. Wright)

Judging books by their covers has become a national pastime of sorts for many. We put people not like us into a box and then shut the cover. They’re never able to crawl out because we aren’t willing to open the doors of our hearts. God’s Word teaches us that prejudice such as this grows out of personal pride (Esther 5:5-6). We put ourselves over others not because of what we know but because of what we don’t know.

I spent a good half an hour talking with that Jehovah’s witness that day. We shared stories of middle age and life. I let him touch my faith that day believing that it would never be the stock answers that turned him to faith in Christ but that it would be the love of Christ itself working in me. An open box gives God more room to work than one we have closed."


I hope this story reminded you like it did me that loving is better than judging. God bless you!

Down in the Dumps

Many years ago a young Midwestern lawyer suffered from such deep depression that his friends thought it best to keep all knives and razors out of his reach. He questioned his life’s calling and the prudence of even attempting to follow it through. During this time he wrote, "I am now the most miserable man living. Whether I shall ever be better, I cannot tell. I awfully forebode I shall not." But somehow, from somewhere, Abraham Lincoln received the encouragement he needed, and the achievements of his life thoroughly vindicated his bout with discouragement.


Fellow princess warriors, do you ever get tired of fighting? Ever feel like you just can't take one more thing? You are not alone.


I usually try to be very encouraging on this blog. But, I'll let you in on a little secret. Sometimes it's me who needs to hear the encouraging words that I write. Talk about getting a message from God. It goes something like this ... "Carol, my precious daughter, remember, practice what you preach." He wants me to walk out His words, not just write them.


Just in case you thought I might "have it together" let me share the few THINGS that got me down in the dumps this past week or so.


1. Computer crashed
2. Car problems
3. Roof shingles falling off in wind
4. Me with the flu for over a week. Headache, body aches, stomach aches, lots of aches.
5. Frame around front door breaking off
6. Daughter displaying some major behavioral issues
7. Son home with the flu, too
8. A barrage of negative thoughts that were bombarding my mind because I didn't act very princess-like in response to my many inconveniences. A lot of broken stuff doesn't gel well when you are feeling your pocket book squeeze tight ... really, really tight


Ladies, although these "things" were /are not life threatening, they are frustrating. When they happen all at once. Well, they're at the very least, a threat to your sanity on some level.


Then this little ole princess warrior (that would be me again) gets hung up in her pride. Yep, me who preaches grace, forgiveness, reaching out to others ... etc. Is embarrassed to let people love her. Asking for help can be hard. It certainly is humbling when you suddenly realize that you've been plastering on the fake smile and pretending everything is f-i-n-e fine.

By yesterday, I was drowning down in the dumps. Today, thankfully, I'm feeling a tad bit better physically, but still not 100 percent. I was driving a long and my favorite worship song comes on. "My God is mighty to save, mighty to save ... He can move mountains, He's mighty to save, Jesus is mighty to save ...


I feel the Spirit starting to move and that ever-familiar feeling of gratitude and love for my King is growing and I'm starting to glow. Then out of the blue The Voice, you know the one, speaks into my thoughts with such force I almost believe it's audible.

"You don't deserve God. You shouldn't even be worshiping Him after your unbelief this week."

Right then, I'd had enough. Enough of the devil and his snide and tormenting comments. I yell (yes, I'm still driving) "ENOUGH! I belong to the King. I am forgiven. So, get lost!" Then the tears came and I was able to worship God with complete abandon. (As much abandon as you can have while semi-safely operating a vehicle during rush hour).


I share this little piece of me to ask for your prayers and to encourage you to hang in there if you, too, are feeling down in the dumps. That old saying: This too shall pass, is so very true. It was a long hard week, but, today, at last, I feel renewed. My God does move mountains and He is mighty to save. I still don't have enough money, things are still broken, but, hey, things could be so much worse.


Yes, I felt like throwing in the towel, whatever that might have entailed, but I didn't. Look at good ole Abe Lincoln. Apparently, he was down in the dumps and depressed, too. Thankfully, he didn't give up either and went on to make history.


We've got our own history to make, ladies. So, let's tell the devil to get lost and lift each other up in prayer, always remembering that Jesus is more than enough for us.

God bless you!

What side are you feeding? Battle Ready or not?

AN ESKIMO FISHERMAN CAME to town every Saturday afternoon. He always brought his two dogs with him. One was white and the other was black. He had taught them to fight on command. Every Saturday afternoon in the town square the people would gather and these two dogs would fight and the fisherman would take bets.

On one Saturday the black dog would win; another Saturday, the white dog would win—but the fisherman always won! His friend began to ask him how he did it. He said, "I starve one and feed the other. The one I feed always wins because he stronger."

This story about the two dogs is apt because it tells us something about the inner warfare that comes into the life of a person who is born again. We have two natures within us, both struggling for mastery. Which one will dominate us? It depends on which one we feed. If we feed our spiritual lives and allow the Holy Spirit to empower us, we will win. " (Billy Graham. The Holy Spirit. Dallas: Word Publishing, 1988, pp. 92-93).

Ladies, If we expect to stand strong in today's world, it is imperative that we feed our souls with what is good and from God. I can tell you that at times, I struggle with this. For example, reading a certain popular vampire series then finding myself hungry for an exciting otherworldly romance isn't feeding the "right" side. I just don't think that God would be cheering for that relationship (if it it was even possible) but you know what I mean.

Maybe you read romance novels, watch R-rated movies, spend time focussing on your angry side, obsessing over a relationship, you fill in the blank ... we could go on and on. My point: there is a ton of stuff in our world that we can think about and spend our time on. If this stuff does not glorify God, who does it glorify? I suspect you know the answer to that question. Satan.

I promise you, when you spend time, daily, with God, in His Word, singing His praises, and living a lifestyle that is in line with His commandments, you will have the needed strength to stand strong in the battles life (and the devil) brings. But, if you have wasted your time caught up on feeding your mind with soap operas, that certain TV series, those not-so-uplifting books, eventually, you will discover that you have drifted from your King and are lacking the supernatural power needed to face trials and tribulations.

So, what do you say, ladies? Shall we feed the right side? After all, as the above story so dramatically explains -- the side we feed is the side that wins.

Let's be winners for Christ.

Reigning Real the Right Way: Learning to Fight

http://sermoncentral.sermonspice.com/videos/4967/warfare--training-for-battle

Have you ever found yourself arguing about your spiritual beliefs and presenting God's truth in such a way that people assume you are nuts, or, at the very least, a little Kooky?

Me, too.

Especially, right now, while the political battle rages. It's so easy to get caught up attacking those with opposing viewpoints from an emotional standpoint rather than using spiritual weapons to defeat the real enemy and cause of so much division - satan.
Yep. I'm going to blame it on the devil.

After all, he is the father of lies. His goal is to destroy mankind, and what a great way to do it - keep us fighting against each other.

Even Christians are debating amongst themselves and drawing lines. Is this how Christ would have handled the situation? Somehow I don't think so.

I remember when I was a baby Christian (new believer). I was so excited and overwhelmed with the Good News of God's grace that I simply had to share it. I was also pretty threatened by sin. I could easily identify the planks in your eyes and I decided it was my duty to make sure that you were well aware of those planks as well. If you didn't want to hear about them, no problem. I'd point them out anyway, in spite of your protests.

I was fighting the good fight, right? -- Pointing out sin and paving the way for God's truth to reign. No-o-o-o-o-t! (That's "not" all drawn out if you're wondering)

Well, surprisingly (ehem), my method didn't work quite the way I'd hoped. I was running around pointing out problems and looking under every chair (figuratively, or course) for demons and disasters. I was kind of like the little boy in the above video. (Please, go to the link and watch!) I was wasting a ton of time and energy on the wrong things.

Since those early days, I've discovered one very important truth. My battles are best fought (and won) on my knees.

Prayer, without ceasing, is the most powerful weapon we can wield. Add worship, a whole lot of forgiveness, grace, self-control, and peace, in addition to God's truth, and you have the making of a successful strategy for spiritual success that ushers victory, often times, right on in to the physical realm.

I'm not saying that we shouldn't speak the truth boldly, but we often forget who we are fighting. It's not those people who don't share our viewpoints, it's a shrewed and capable creature that would like nothing more than to confuse the issues and keep us focussed on people, places, and processes rather than on the Truth, on God.

Friends, I'm not shaking my finger at anyone, I'm mostly reminding myself of the best way to be victorious in a difficult spiritual, emotional, and physical climate.

I have very strong views about the presidential candidates, but, more importantly, I have very, very strong views about who I really serve -- my Commander and Chief -- Jesus Christ. It is up to me to reign real as His Princess Warrior, representing His Light during dark times.

So, as the upcoming election approaches, let us do the one thing that is sure to change not only minds, but hearts, let's pray. Let's stop karate kicking our co-workers, friends, and neighbors and instead kick the devil's you-know-what from our ultimate battle stance -- our knees in prayer.

Please, if you are committed to praying daily for our nation and its leaders, send me a note. Together we can accomplish much more than we ever could alone. God bless you.

Fix My Heart ... it's Damaged

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aSc3NRxgNkA

Before you read any further, follow the above link to YouTube and listen to the song. The lyrics are the only thing you'll see accompanying the song. Then come back!

Have you ever had a broken heart? Yes, I know, it's a rhetorical question; considering at some point we've all suffered a broken heart -- most of us more than one. Unfortunately, after the fall of Adam and Eve, relationships have never been the way God intended, and, today, our world has skewed male/female relationships to the point they're becoming unrecognizable.

As a teenager, when I was in the height of my addictive behaviors, I thought the institution of marriage was a joke. I was all about free love and lived by the "if it feels good do it" motto. I wasn't alone, either. It wasn't difficult to find others who shared my distorted view of reality and relationships.

The idea of getting and staying married to one person seemed outdated, boring, and simply impossible. After all, what if you got bored? Yes, I really had such thoughts. As you can probably imagine, my relationship choices were pretty unhealthy and the results of these relationships were often heart shattering.

Let me just say, without giving my entire testimony, there were some situations in my young life that led me to believe that I was worthless, useless, and hopeless. I had a huge hole in my heart that was hungry for love, attention, acceptance, and approval. I wanted to be the coolest, prettiest, most popular, and most intriguing girl around. In order to gain friends (mostly boyfriends) I did some things that went against my values and beliefs. Eventually, my values and beliefs changed drastically to support my actions. Sin is like that. Over time, we harden our hearts, and the abnormal becomes normal.

My heart was damaged. I tried many remedies to patch it up. Maybe you can relate?

Food, stuff, boyfriends and later men, drugs, thrill seeking, the occult, anything that might provide an escape or pleasurable experience became my solutions to heart hunger. Nothing filled me up. Happiness always remained elusive and out of reach. The harder I tried to find the magic "it" whatever it might be, the worse I felt.

I believe that we all hunger and thirst for SOMETHING, something more. Unfortunately, the things that the world, via the media, serves up to feed our appetites will cause us severe indigestion, and, ultimately, lead to hearts that need fixing.

In the song above, Damaged, the women singing are pleading for someone to "fix it, fix it, fix it ..." Sadly, they are simply looking for another man to bandage their hearts. How many bandages and "fixes" can one heart take? At some point, the pain gets to be to much and nothing of this world can repair it.

Thankfully, as Princess Warriors for Christ, we have the ultimate Physician and Heart Healer in our lives. He stands ready to make us brand new. Jesus doesn't save us then slap a few Band Aids on our hearts. Oh, no! He performs surgery on our souls. If we let Him.


That's the beauty of our King. He's not a ruthless ruler. He is all-powerful, yet He is loving. We can choose to climb on the gurney ... or not.

Precious Princesses, we have so much to accomplish for His Kingdom. If we continue to seek man-made remedies to fix our soul sicknesses, we will end up helpless in the face of evil. We are in a spiritual war where every believer -- man, woman, and child -- must learn to reign real, brandishing truth and grace. If we're too wounded to even walk in righteousness, how can we possibly fight the good fight of faith?


If we're still waiting for a man or relationship to "fix us" and fill us up, we're in serious trouble. Please, sisters, allow the only One with the power to save serve as your Savior. Jesus is mighty to save. He is the only Source of fulfillment that will truly sustain us.


Let's throw off the sin that so easily entangles us and accept God's healing and hope.


Please consider the following two articles in relation to relationships, marriage, and the topic of love addiction.

http://christianwomentoday.com/closet/codependency.html and

http://retirementwithapurpose.com/relationships/godsgift.html


Please, go watch the video below. There is Someone who is mighty to save and who will heal your broken heart. Just let Him.

http://video.aol.com/video-detail/laura-story-mighty-to-save/3787243329

Princess Warrior turned Road Warrior

I just posted this article on my other blog, but it came out all goofy and messy. I hope you enjoy the message and are challenged to become a Praying Road Warrior.

Becoming A Praying Road Warrior

Carol Van Atta

It was fifteen minutes before 8:00 AM.

My turn signal clicked impatiently. Why couldn’t these other drivers understand that I was late — again?

Finally, I merged into the right lane, boldly advancing toward my exit. Out of nowhere, another driver raced up beside me shaking his fist.

No —! Not another incident of road rage.

I wanted to scream. Unfortunately, I had not taken time out of my chaotic morning routine to pray and prepare for the commute that seemed to be growing increasingly stressful each day. I knew all the proper ways to pray. I just needed to set the alarm for earlier, find a peaceful place, and talk to the Lord before venturing outside the security of my home.

For me, this lofty ideal was not working no matter how hard I tried. Yet, I knew, without a doubt, as I watched the rear-end of the fist-shaking-driver’s car vanish around the bend, I could choose to pray for the angry driver or I could fantasize about kicking a rear, and it definitely would not be the backside of a car!

In that moment, I realized that I needed a plan, a plan that I could implement from my car during my hectic morning commute to work. A method of prayer that would allow me move over to the passenger’s seat in my life and surrender to God’s control behind the wheel. Thus began my quest of becoming a focused, dynamic, Praying Road Warrior.

Wherever we are prayer is appropriate. Even in the car! Our Lord told us to pray without ceasing. I understand that commandment to mean that we are to pray all the time, whenever and wherever possible. I also realized, as I prayed for myself, my family, my friends, and my church, there were a large number of hurting, angry, and very impatient people roaring by me on the road — people who looked pretty gloomy about their own freeway circumstances.

I started right then listening more closely to God. Now, when I see a car whiz past and I hear the loving voice of my Father say, “Pray for that woman. She is hurting.” I do. I have learned to start off my daily road trips in the presence of the Lord.

Over time, a new prayer pattern emerged. This simple method that I used to rise above “road madness” and draw closer to my Savior was really starting to work.

Breaking down the word WARRIOR provides a simple, yet very thorough process of prayer. It can be used behind the wheel or wherever else we desire to enter the Throne Room of God.

WARRIOR:

W-Worship — It is always appropriate to enter God’s presence in worship. Worship provides a certain element of holiness that nothing else can. When done with complete abandonment and with Christ as our sole focus, we discover freedom and insight on a deeper level. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve found the solution to a problem in the midst of praise and worship. However, I offer a warning: Do not close your eyes and raise both hands in a posture of worship while driving. Not because you look weird, that’s okay, but we want to be a blessing while praying, not causing accidents!

Psalm 68:4 (NLT): Sing praises to God and to his name! Sing loud praises to him who rides the clouds.His name is the Lord—rejoice in his presence!

A-Adore — I have discovered that adoring God immediately following worship is a natural act. We can speak words of love and praise to Him. For he is worthy, incredible, creative, forgiving, loving, merciful, kind, just, all-powerful, perfect, and so much more. You may find this portion of your prayer time hard to stop. Fantastic!

We will become totally energized when we learn to take the focus off of ourselves and place it where it belongs — on our Lord and King. He alone is truly is worthy of all adoration. We can never honor Him too much.

Psalm 88:15 (NLT): But you, O Lord, are a merciful and gracious God, slow to get angry, full of unfailing love and truth.

R-Repent — Before we go any further, it is time to do business with God. He already paid the price for our sins, didn’t He? I don’t like that feeling when I know I’ve sinned and I’m trying to hide from the Creator of Heaven and Earth. He knows it all! Hiding isn’t possible — ever.

This is an opportunity to remove any unbearable, sin-caused, weight we’ve been carting around, giving it to the Only One who can handle our burdens — Jesus Christ. In prayer, we can chose to start our day fresh and free or under the enemy’s thumb. I don’t know about you, but I want freedom and forgiveness, forget the thumb!

Acts 3:17 (NLT): Thankfully, that is what our God wants for us too. Now turn from your sins and turn to God, so you can be cleansed of your sin

R-Repeat — Now is the time to repeat God’s word. Are you working on a memory verse? Have you ever tried praying scripture aloud and in prayer form? If not, this is the perfect opportunity to start. Here we can fill our minds, in prayer, with God’s truth found only in His Word.

Through memorization of God’s word, and praying familiar scriptures back to God, we arm ourselves with the belt of truth. We need this truth in order to live successfully in a deceitful and dangerous world. This is the perfect time to pray through the Armor of God found in Ephesians, Chapter 6. We have a responsibility in our prayer time to take our thoughts captive and replace the enemy’s lies with God’s incredible truth. Let’s do it!

2 Timothy 3:16 (NLT): All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It straightens us out and teaches us to do what is right. It is God’s way of preparing us in every way, fully equipped for every good thing God wants us to do.

I-Invite — Now we should make time for specific requests and talk about our concerns, our fears, and our hopes, inviting Him to partner in every area of our lives.

I know when I pray in this manner my day just seems to flow so much easier. Not perfectly, because this is a fallen world, but certainly a whole lot better.

I also invite Him to speak to me. It is crucial for me to be silent for a few moments and seek God’s plan. I ask Him to show me anyone on the road, in the traffic jam, or even in a building close by that I should be praying for. God always responds to my request for divine appointments. He is waiting for our invitation. The good news, God always shows up where He is invited!

Proverbs 8:17 (NLT): I love all who love me. Those who search for me will surely find me.

O-Obey — It’s time to obey and actually do what He has revealed to us during worship, while we were repenting or repeating His word. He may have shown us someone to pray for, or something specific we need to do. It is now up to us to follow through.

Just the other day, I drove past an extremely disheveled young man sitting on an overstuffed duffel bag at the side of the freeway entrance. He was holding up a piece of cardboard with “I am hungry” scrawled across the front. On this particular occaision, I felt compelled to drive back and pick up a meal at a fast food restaurant. I was very nervous about the whole thing. I mean, what if he was faking it?

I heard God’s word clearly in my mind, “Feed my sheep.” Now that was hard to ignore. It was not up to me to judge this man, just to bless him in a simple way. I added a five-dollar bill to his lunch bag, stopping nearby while other drivers watched me in obvious shock. I let this man know that the care-package was a gift from God.

Do I do this all the time? No. But this day, I knew it was my duty. So, I obeyed. I can’t even begin to describe the joy I felt in my heart from such a simple act of obedience. I simply had to rejoice!

Jeremiah 7:23 (NLT) This is what I told them: ‘Obey me, and I will be your God, and you will be my people. Only do as I say, and all will be well!’

R-Rejoice — Finally, as we pull into that parking spot, or return to our driveway, we should now be rejoicing. We have just spent the duration of our drive in the presence of God. It is time to rejoice. Rejoice for He is good. He longs to spend time with each one of us. We can approach His thrown with freedom and confidence. Let us celebrate the good news that we never have drive anywhere alone. We have the best driving partner ever, don’t we? We have Jesus.

Next time you get in your car and realize you have not said your morning prayers, don’t fret. God is waiting for you. So are all those people in the world who are hungry for life, hungry for God.

When we become a Praying Road Warrior, we impact our world and our own lives in powerful and unexpected ways. With God driving and us praying, our commute will never be the same again!

Revelation 19: 7a (NLT): Let us be glad and rejoice and honor him

FINAL NOTE: Don’t stop just because the car does! After we park the car, heading to our daily destinations, we often leave God back in the car. Maybe we should invite Him to join us for the rest of the day?

We don’t ever want to leave our dependence on Him for the road trip only. Let’s invite Him to stay with us every minute of everyday. Amen!

Moving out of the Shadows: Speaking Boldly

As Christian women who have embraced the title - Princess Warrior - it is imperative that we learn to step out of the shadows and confidently claim who we belong to. It's not enough to simply socialize with each other. Yet, for many of women, speaking up and speaking out may cause some discomfort, even fear. Talking in front of others, especially a crowd, has been statistically proven to be one of the biggest fears people (both men and women) face. So, if you're afraid; you're not alone.

HOWEVER (that's a big however) we cannot use our fear to avoid sharing about our Heavenly King and his plan of salvation. Although we are gifted in specific areas, God asks all of us to go out and make disciples of all nations. For many people, we truly are the only Bible they will read.

So, how do we overcome our fear and as Nike put it: Just Do It!?

Well, we just do it. Seriously, though, it is our responsibility, as heiresses of the King of the Universe, to tell others about Him. His ways. His plan. His purpose. His grace. His forgiveness. His truth. I know. I know. That whole truth thing can be kind of scary, especially, the whole hell and devil thing. So often, today, we pitter patter around and talk only of God's love, which is great. The only problem is if a person doesn't see a need for salvation, they aren't likely to invite Jesus into their lives. Recognizing they have a sin issue, and a not-so-pleasant future without Him, must often take place before someone will accept the Savior.

I always believed in God. In fact, the Bible tells us that even the demons from hell believe and tremble. It's what we do with that information. Without a knowledge of our sin, it is difficult to see any need to be saved.

As Princess Warriors, our Guide Book instructs us to be ready on any occasion to give an account of our faith. We are to prepare ourselves for such discussions. The Holy Spirit will do the rest if we step out and open our mouths. I can't tell you how many times that I've missed out on spiritual conversations simply because of discomfort. I just kept my usually talkative mouth clamped shut while an opportunity walked right by never to return. Ouch! What a horrible feeling to miss a divine appointment.

No more! Today, I've made every effort to arm myself with the right tools for ministry. In my case, I am a public speaker. I understand not every woman reading this will run out and start speaking for retreats and conferences. That's okay! But, by golly, we all better be ready step out from the shadows of our fear and share the gospel if the opportunity arises. We can't afford to let our discomfort dictate our actions. We have to allow God to give us the courage we need to share with others. I promise, over time, it gets easier and less frightening. You might, like me and many others, find out you enjoy speaking.

Believe it or not, there are some low-cost, practical programs that can help you develop better communication and speaking skills. Many churches have programs for helping people develop in this area. I've joined a worldwide, non-profit organization called Toast Masters. It is so much fun and I've met many great people in this program. You should have a local chapter in your area. http://www.toastmasters.org/ If you're a little competitive, they even have speaking competitions. Don't worry! You don't have to compete in anything. Go and learn. You'll be surprised.

There's also a website/ministry that is totally dedicated to sharing the gospel message. http://www.wayofthemaster.com/ I completed their awesome book (it's a big book, too!) called The School of Biblical Evangelism.

Ultimately, if we want to spread the Good News, God will open the doors and the people will come. I challenge you to pray for new opportunities to speak boldly on your King's behalf. After all, the stakes are huge: Heaven or hell. Let's do all we can to help the people God places in our path discover the hope and future that's available in Christ.

Just for Today:

Smile at everyone you see.

Greet strangers randomly.

Find ways to bring up Jesus in conversation.

Be ready to explain why you're joy-filled when the economy is at its worst; when our nation is at war; when you have personal issues that are overwhelming; when the political scene is a major mess ... so on and so on and so on. Just start talking. People will listen.

Remember: We were all created for such a time as this.

Wearing Beauty and Modesty: No more masks!

I just love the above painting of Ruth.

Again, the following entry has been adapted from Real Women Don't Wear Masks, Carol Van Atta and Dr. Kathy Rodriguez (not yet published)

Precious Princess Warriors for Christ, we have finally arrived at our last entry about the Seductive Mask. Hopefully, the following entry will give you insight and encouragement for removing the seductive mask and the amazing benefits of instead putting on Beauty and Modesty. God bless you.

Wearing Beauty and Modesty

When you hear the word beauty, what comes to mind? Do you envision an airbrushed supermodel or an exotic woman from some faraway land? Maybe a famous movie star or teen pop queen? If you’re like most women, your immediate response likely had to do with outer beauty. Tan, toned, and sculpted — the All American dream girl.

We encourage you to take some time to research what is considered beautiful in different parts of the world, or in different eras of time. You will be pleasantly surprised by the diverse results of such a search. The idea of what is outwardly beautiful changes like the seasons. For some summer is best, while others choose winter as their favorite. And, of course, there are fans of fall and spring. So it is with the concept of beauty, especially if we are deriving our definition from the world around us.

In 2003, the winner of a beauty contest in Burkina Faso’s capital, Ouagadougou (Africa) weight 257 lbs. This contest was a stark contrast to the Miss World Competition which was held at the same time in China.

According to several sources, in the 1890’s a plump body and pale complexion was considered attractive as those features were supposed to represent wealth and a refined indoor lifestyle.

While at the letslookbeautiful.com website we discovered varying beauty ideals explored in detail. For example, in Asian cultures the focus in on a woman’s eyes. In the Middle East women who use more natural products for make up like henna and kohl are considered most attractive.

These are but a few ideals of what is considered beautiful. So, as you can see, we could spend countless hours, days, even weeks trying to figure out what type of “beauty” we want to be, and once again, these remedies are all outside solutions to an inside dilemma. After all, according to God’s ideal, and He is our King, beauty is more a matter of the heart. We should be more concerned about the motives of our hearts than the brand of make up we buy or jeans we try to squeeze into.

God’s Word clearly explains:

Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Proverbs 31:30 NIV

Do not let your adornment be merely outward-arranging the hair, wearing gold, or putting on fine apparel. Rather let it be the hidden, person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the
sight of the Lord. 1 Peter 3:3-4 NKJV

Rather, clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ, and do not think about how to gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Romans 13:14 NIV

I also want women to dress modestly, with decency and propriety, not with braded hair or gold or pearls or expensive clothes, but with good deeds, appropriate for women who profess to worship God. I Timothy 2:9-10 NIV

I love the definitions of modesty and self control provided by an online article featured on Crosswalk.com appropriately titled: Fashion and Following the Savior. “Modesty: ‘Propriety: The avoidance of clothing and adornment that is extravagant, showy, and sexually enticing.’” Self Control: “’Restraint, moderation for the purpose of purity.’”

Now this doesn’t mean we can’t dress nice and fashionably. In fact, I think as daughters of the King of the Universe that representing Him well in appearance is very important. In fact, our dress can even reflect our inner qualities. For example, if I’m focused on purity, loyalty, serving God, helping others stay focused the Savior and God’s love, dressing like a wild woman is not an accurate representation of those beliefs.

However, modest dress doesn’t mean wearing a turtleneck during the summer months, or a giant gunny sack the rest of the year. With wisdom, we can easily figure out what is modest, attractive and appropriate attire as modern Christian women. It is probably best to avoid, belly baring hip-huggers, low cut blouses, see-through dresses, and the like. Ladies, we know, don’t we?

In one of our healing classes in Restoration Ministries entitled For Women Only: Accept No Substitutes, we often offer to help a woman in the class review her wardrobe as she exchanges the lies and false promises of seduction for the eternal truths of beauty and modesty.

Ultimately, if we clothe ourselves with the Fruit of God’s Spirit, we will discover that we are walking as beautiful and modest women of God, no longer vying for the sinful Seductive Mask.

The Story of a Friend

Ruth, the Moabite woman — a widow, sister, and beloved daughter-in-law — she was a woman who reflected beauty and modesty both inside out. Her noble character is fully demonstrated in her friendships and relationships. Therefore, an examination of her life will prove helpful in understanding the benefits of wearing a new God-ordained identity.

Imagine, if you will, that you married into a family that did not share your personal religious beliefs or your social customs. You have possibly risked judgment and ridicule from your family and friends by adopting the seemingly strange foreign practices of your new husband and his relatives. After all, observing specific religious ceremonies play a magnified role in your life.

Overtime, you become more and more fascinated with the spiritual beliefs of your husband and his parents. You find yourself drawn to the miraculous tales of a sea parting and a monstrous ark carrying Noah, his family, and all the earth’s animals to safety. The idea of a loving, consuming, and all-knowing God becomes more inviting as the years drift by.

Sadly, your father-in law and your husband perish, and Naomi, your faithful mother-in-law, a woman who is now closer to you than your own mother, gently encourages you to return to your family of origin as she plans to journey back to her homeland in Judah.

At this point in the story, Ruth’s situation has become more than a little disheartening, wouldn’t you agree?

We can’t forget she has been with her Hebrew family for over ten years. I’m certain the idea that she would be required to return to her old ways in the midst of such a tidal wave of grief sounded overwhelming.

Yet, amazingly, even after Ruth’s sister chooses to remain behind, Ruth completely separates herself from her home, her birth family, and any ties to her former pagan religion, and dutifully follows Naomi, discovering a whole new way of life.

Talk about a willingness to surrender to God’s will! In the comments Ruth makes to Naomi, her beauty and modesty shine brightly against the parched dessert landscape. Her servant’s heart is most pleasing to God and comforting to Naomi who has been left alone to fend for herself without a male relative.

Back in Bethlehem, where they finally settle, Ruth quickly follows Naomi’s direction and serves as a provider for both of them. The town folk can immediately see that Ruth is a godly woman of beauty, modesty, and integrity. She obeys the Jewish customs and gracefully fulfills her commitment to her aging mother-in-law.

We know what happens next, don’t’ we? Let’s fast forward, okay?

Ruth has begun to gather food behind the harvesters in a distant relative’s field. Upon meeting Ruth, Boaz the field’s owner, immediately senses her innocence and loyalty and provides a covering of safety.

Listen to Ruth’s unassuming response:

“At this, she bowed down with her face to the ground. She exclaimed, ‘Why have I found such favor in your eyes that you notice me — a foreigner.’”

I love Boaz’s response.

“Boaz replied, ‘I’ve been told all about what you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband — how you left your father and mother and your homeland and came to live with a people you did not know before. May the Lord repay you for what you have done. May you be richly rewarded by the Lord, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge.’”

Dear friends, all these blessings from this kind, respected, God-fearing, and wealthy man were due to Ruth’s godliness not her seductiveness.

Modesty can be described as humble, unpretentious, reserved, meek, gentle, mild …
Ruth fit the description perfectly. She had no need to resort the kind of shenanigans that wearers of the Seductive Mask use. Remember our fist story about Mrs. PT, Potiphar’s over-pampered bride? She didn’t get “her man” nor did she keep her husband’s attention. Surely, Potiphar suspected what his wife had been up to. If not, he would have followed protocol and put Joseph to death. I’m quite sure that the disastrous results of Mrs. PT’s failed seduction only worsened after Joseph was imprisoned.

Ruth, however, obeyed God and lived as a beautiful and modest maiden who was ultimately rescued by Boaz, her Kinsman Redeemer. By refusing to be a scheming seductress, Ruth received all that most women yearn for: a handsome husband, a stable home, financial security, children, and the admiration of her peers and elders. Boaz’s words express this exact sentiment:

“And now, my daughter, don’t be afraid. I will do as you ask. All my fellow townsmen know that you are a woman of noble character …"

Truly, ladies, when we live God’s Way things are much more likely to go the way we desire, and if they don’t, we can still trust that God knows best and rejoice over the fact that we didn’t compromise ourselves to get what we want. Amen!

You’re a beautiful princess, a daughter of the King, a woman of noble character, and a lady of modesty. No matter what you might have said or done in the past, God has chosen you to be His Bride. Don’t settle for less than the ultimate Bridegroom, Jesus Christ. Trade that old hollow mask for a life of worth and redemption.

To my precious Prince Charming,

Thank you for being my Kinsman Redeemer. Like Ruth, I can trust that you will care for me as I adhere to Your ways. I’m sorry for wearing the Seductive Mask. The truth is, it never even fit properly. Today, I understand that my survival does not depend on using my womanly whiles. I do not gain power or control by behaving in such an unbecoming manner. The acceptance and love that I so yearn for is found in You.

Right now, I choose to throw this filthy mask into the flames where it belongs. I refuse to reach for it again. I am trusting in You alone to meet my needs. You remind me to be anxious for nothing; after all you know my every desire and have numbered every hair on my head. Who could ever provide for me like that but you, my King?

Thank you for creating me as a woman of character. Please place other women of wisdom in my life to help love, guide, and support me as I learn to live a life free from masks.

I love you, Jesus. It is in your holy Name I pray. Amen.

Ladies, I welcome you comments. Feel free to share you thoughts and feelings about this mask, or any of the others we've explored. God bless you as you continue to "Reign Real."

No More Masks! Removing the Seductive Mask

The following excerpt was taken from Real Women Don't Wear Masks by Carol Van Atta & Dr. Kathy Rodriguez (not yet published) If you are a women's ministry leader/pastor and would like Carol and/or Kathy to share at your women's retreat about removing masks and embracing God's best, please email: carol_vanatta@yahoo.com or visit: http://www.carolvanatta.com/ for additional ministry details.

One dictionary describes the word seduce as follows:

1.: to persuade to disobedience on disloyalty 2: to lead astray usually by persuasion or false promises 3: to carry out the physical seduction of: entice to sexual intercourse 4: ATTRACT Synonym see LURE — se-duc-er noun

How true? Seduction involves being led astray. Both parties — the seducer and the “seducee” — are led away from what is good and what is right. Such enticement happens for an array of reasons.

Women have learned through the centuries that their so-called feminine wiles, beauty, and sexuality can be used to sway men to do their bidding in spite of great consequences. Some women pick up this mask so frequently that it seems natural. After all, a few bats of those eyelashes and certain men have been known to forfeit their God-given destinies for a moment of promised passion.

What about the movie Pretty Woman? Some called it a “Cinderella Story.” But let’s get real, shall we? Julia Roberts was trying to get by and resorted to prostitution in order to make ends meet. Her naivety and outward beauty caught the attention of one lonely millionaire. They slept together and then he hired her to be his escort while he was in town. After wining and dining her, this handsome man rescued her from her former way of life and, together, they headed into the sunset in a super-extravagant, stretch limousine.

Again, the Seductive Mask was worn as a means to survive and it appeared that by donning this facade that our seductress won the ultimate prize — a real life Prince Charming.

But, sadly, the Pretty Woman story has just one thing in common with Cinderella — it’s a fairy tale. This is a mask that ultimately won’t work and a mask that will take us far from our Lord and King, our ultimate Knight in Shining Armor, our one true Prince Charming.

Today’s media only helps perpetuate the myth of unsurpassed glamour and glorious gifts that wearing this mask will provide. The following lies are replayed across our TV screens, in romance novels, on the Internet, and at movie theatres daily. Every young girl, teenager, and woman must face and overcome the following common, yet unrelenting lies:

1. Only beautiful and sexy women are admired and get what they want.

2. If I’m not pretty enough, I can still be extremely sexual and get my way.

3. Powerful women are seductive women; they are not ashamed of their sexuality, nor should I be.

4. The best way to get a man to do what I want is to behave seductively.

5. As a Christian woman, I can still be flirtatious and get my needs met by men. After all, I’m not actually having sexual encounters.

6. All the famous and desirable women are clearly seductive; therefore, if I want attention I should behave that way, too.

7. Appearing seductive is the best way to stay in control and have power over men. It will allow me to feel in charge and I won’t get hurt. After all, I’m the one calling the shots.

The constant mantra of the above messages leaves us struggling to stay on the path of truth. Everyday we must make a choice to lay this mask down where it belongs … at the foot of the cross. A greater understanding of why we are so often tempted to turn to this false face will help.

More on the Seductive Mask

The book of Proverbs offers a number of dire warnings to men, yes, men, in regard to women who are hiding beneath the mask of seduction. These women are referred to by several seemingly harsh terms:

Prostitute.

Adulteress.

Seductress.

Yet, when we are wearing this infamous mask, are we not indeed acting as such?
Proverbs 7:21-23 (NIV) states:

With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing
it will cost him his life.

Consider Proverbs 6:25, 26 (NIV):

Do not let lust in your heart after her beauty or let her captivate you with her eyes, for the prostitute reduces you to a loaf of bread, and the Adulteress preys upon your very life.

Ladies, we don’t share these words of truth to shame you, but to challenge you with lessons we’ve learned in falling victim to this mask. We are aware that horrible things from childhood lead many of us to wear the ever-popular seductive façade. However, the truth remains that this mask is far from God’s best. It is not what He has planned for you. It will never give you the true acceptance, confidence, control, power, or admiration that you crave. Eventually, the effects of this mask lead to death — an emotional and spiritual death for certain — for some, physical death.

If we indeed follow through, and use the Seductive Mask in a way that leads to sexual sin, the results can be life altering … deadly.

HIV, unplanned pregnancies, ruined marriages, families destroyed, and ministries uprooted are just a few potential side effects. The devil would like nothing more than to have Christian women buy into the lie that this mask is effective.

Let’s instead rise up and remove this deadly face, replacing it with godly Beauty and Modesty.