I Am Still A Princess

Mimi's Baby Girl

2012-02-28T09:53:00.000-08:00

If she can, then so can I...

She's two weeks old today.

(My granddaughter Merriweather Augusta Rose)

Unforgiveness

2012-02-26T05:04:00.004-08:00

There have been many instances in my life where forgiveness was imperative in order to not grow cold in the heart. A choice had to be made.

Sometimes I think about what it is to forgive. I remember the story of my Dad, the day he died... as if he held on to the very second I said (five hundred miles away), "I forgive him. Completely."

It is so hard to let go of pain that others have caused. It is a familiar emotion, and familiarity is far more comfortable than the unknown. We know this hurt, but we don't know what is on the other side of that forgiveness thing. And a lot of times the person we need to forgive may never say they are sorry for the thing they committed against us. But I have to ask you Princesses, does it really matter? If you are here, then you have chosen to take the Royal path, instead of the earthly one. And following that Royal path means sometimes we have to do things which do not feel good to our flesh. But to continue to put a band-aid over a place in our heart which needs surgery, is only allowing for infection to set in. So let go of your hurt my lovelies. You are better than this. That person is going on with their life and here you are, stuck in your bottomless pit of emotions. Why would you choose a pit over a mountain top? The view is much better in forgiveness than in despair.

Have the courage to let go of that hurt my darlings. That person is not worth your anger. Or maybe they are, and you need to do this for the sake of your relationship? Whether they even know they have hurt you, or they do know and do not care. Whether they ever say they are sorry, it does not always mean you have to go back for more. In an instance my children and I have faced in the past, it was not possible to go back for more. Dangerous. But quite honestly, I have spent fourteen years praying for that person's life. Praying blessings and peace and forgiveness into their lives. And in return, God has given us the peace and safety to know deep down that we no longer (it's been years) have to look over our shoulder and wonder if that person is still stalking us. To know that no matter who is against us in this life, God be for us... and HE makes an awesome super-hero. Can solve all the crimes of hurt in our lives.

Trust the Lord baby dolls. Trust Him with all your heart. Lean not on your own understanding... but go with that pressing urgency that is welling up inside you right now like a holy-warm bubble... and say,

"I forgive and release___________ of all sin against me, and I am free of unforgiveness in Jesus' name."

Even if you have to say it every day, several times a day, until that poison of unforgiveness rises up in your throat and you spit it out in the trash can where it belongs. You will never regret the freedom that comes with forgiveness. Just ask Jesus, He opened His arms WIDE for us...

“Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Condemn not, and you shall not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Luke 6:37

Blog Entry 101!

2012-02-25T06:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, so college and youth pastoring... and "Mimi-ing" have kept me so busy I flew right by blog entry number one hundred without all the fireworks that go with it. But that's okay, because last night I celebrated life in general with my youth group at the local coffee shop. We had such a good time. God's presence was there!

I am grateful to the Lord for all He has done in my life. He has given me so many opportunities. Famous people have been in my audience. I have a book in publication and one on Kindle. I've done murals on church ceilings, hand designed their signs, and left my mark artistically across four different states. I may not have a bajillion dollars stashed away somewhere, or my name in flashing lights, but I have to say I am living my dreams.

Sometimes people get REALLY mad at me for posting the truth. That I am spouting opinion. Some say I am condemning them (ninety-five percent of the time I am talking TO or ABOUT myself in my posts) and some say my stuff gets a little negative, or out there. But I have followed the Lord the best I can through this challenge of blogging the last two years. Life is FULL of ups and downs, but the true purpose of I Am Still a Princess ...is JUST THAT...

I AM STILL A PRINCESS...EVEN WHEN I FALL FLAT ON MY FACE IN DOGGIE DOO... JESUS WASHES ME CLEAN, DUSTS OFF MY CROWN, AND SAYS LET'S KEEP GOING.

I want to thank all those who have faithfully kept up with my blogs. It is an honor to have God place words through my finger-tips and out my BIG mouth that can help others.

Thank You Lord, for a successful blog. It is a big part of my writing, of reaching others for You. May I ever speak YOUR words, and not what man (or self) thinks I should write. Or say, for that matter. Because if it isn't for You Jesus, its for naught.

Changes

2012-02-23T05:46:00.000-08:00

Sometimes (all the time) when change occurs quickly, it leaves one stressed. Stress then leads to doubt, and doubt to...

<---------------------.

If the Lord is making a change in your life, don't fight it. Everything may look in the middle of a new life like it is upside down and you have no escape. But it will be okay.

Resistance is a word that has been churning in my spirit as of late. And when I looked this morning for the perfect picture to go along with my post on change, (I googled the word change) this is what popped up.

The devil has been causing quite a bit of this and trying to convince me that my resisting "him" is futile. Oh really? Even if the only thing God wants me to do right now is be still and let HIM fight for me (2 Chronicles 20), then I have stood my ground and fought the good fight. No matter how bad my flesh (and that demon of control that seems to run rampant in so many people's lives) say this doesn't feel good. Let's fix this. No flesh, no attitude, we are not going to fix this. And you demon of control (Jezebel), I call you out, in Jesus' name. This ain't a man game. It's a GOD thing. And you no longer have place in those around me. You are defeated.

One of the things I have quickly learned since stepping back into the arena full force, is surrender to God, not to the enemy. But another important morsel God has given me to chew on at a much deeper level- don't listen to what people are saying... look at what they are doing. If their words are not lining up with their actions, or their actions are not lining up with HIS word, then often times it is a flesh deal, or even worse, it is Satan rearing his head.

Some folks now-a-days don't like to talk about the devil. One of his greatest tactics is to convince people he and his minions are just a made up cartoon or teen show. Well, he's a show alright. But more like a three ring circus of chaos and mayhem than the latest sequel in a series.

Change is so important in our walk. We cannot stay the same, even if it worked for fourteen years of ministry. Sometimes God wants to do a new thing, and our thoughts and ideas for what He has just don't compare to what HE has in store. So let go Christian warrior. What worked yesterday doesn't always work today. Listen to God, and not what you have stored up in your memory bank. All you knew before is dead and gone. What you need now, is what He will give you NOW. Listen closely, don't fall asleep in the middle of class (Ministry 101- Holy Ghost University). Wake up and pay attention. Your answers are right in front of your nose, you just have to get your big mouth and attitude out of the way so you can see it (Jeannette).

Waa Me

2012-02-22T18:36:00.000-08:00

I have been feeling really down lately. Things have been going SOOO not my way, in every area of my life. God is trying to break me free of having any say in my own life (or in the lives of my family), only HIS say counts anymore. I am fine with that. But as my pastor often says, growing pains hurt.

I was feeling rather down tonight because my Algebra assignments are kicking me in the rear. And it seems every time I try to get some tutoring, something happens and I am back to square one. So tonight I had a meltdown and boo-hoo'd in the shower for quite some time. It seems to be the best place to cry lately. Sometimes I would like to blame it on menopause or having five grown children... who knows?! But it has been attack straight out of the pit of hell and it seems to escalate by the day. Still all God says is let it break free. Let HIM have control. Let HIM be in charge. Surrender no matter how ugly it looks. And sometimes all the bad things that hit all at once are nothing more than a season of intercession. But dang, its been hard. To the point I was very down today. Fought it off all I could, but school work really has me down.

So finally I just closed out the window on my Algebra and said forget it. If I pass, I pass. If I fail, I fail- and I clicked onto my Humanities class. Something I AM good at. My next weekly assignment was one written page on an event which took place in my life that could be a possible play. Wow, hmm... which one should I choose (slapping my forehead now... drama queens require drama life, right?! Oh, help me Lord).

I thought for a moment, and believe it or not that's all it took.

I called my Mama.

May 31, 1985.

It was the day Mama and I outran and survived an F-5 tornado. All hell broke loose all around us, and we just simply drove on down the road in our old mint green Ford, unaware of the chaos going on around us.

It never occurred to us, as we drove to my cousin's graduation why there would be parts of a barn, a mobile home and a tractor floating like a butterfly in the air above us. We went on to graduation, untouched and unphased.

If my God and my Savior can spare my mother and me from a tornado of such large proportions... the largest one in the history of Pennsylvania... then He can deliver me out of this mess. I am so tired, and discouraged, and disgusted with myself right now, but somewhere on the other side of this little pity party of mine is victory. This tiny little lump is NOT a mountain to climb. It is AN ANT HILL. And all day I kept reminding myself there are people sleeping in this weather under bridges, and young girls deciding whether or not to keep their baby, and women running for their lives, and youth hurting and here I am whining about stupid little things like this. I think if I need delivered from ANYTHING... it's menopause (and my bad attitude that goes with it).

Forgive me Lord for being so melancholy and selfish. Help me to bite my tongue and kill this attitude. Bring me up out of this mess. And help me to continue to help others, but only to glorify YOU.

Life Vs. Choice

2012-02-21T03:29:00.000-08:00

This Mimi sure is glad her little girl is a believer in life instead of choice.

Signs and Wonders and Spring Fever

2012-02-17T06:13:00.001-08:00

Lord I need You today. Please, and thank You.

Satan, You Are Defeated

2012-02-16T03:52:00.000-08:00

Last night, before I crashed face down in my bed, I saw an article about how certain political idiots passed the bill stating that MY private insurance dollars are going to HAVE to pay for "birth control". What they are really saying is that my hard earned money is going to pay for legalized murder. It is not okay to discipline your child while on the outside of the womb, but it is perfectly fine for you to KILL your child while it is still inside. This, after I got home from a visit to the hospital to see my new grand daughter.

I am so tired of Satan and his lies. People sugar coat and deceive and say it is their right to do fill in the blank.

I took it to prayer last night, and woke up early this morning with it (and several other issues) still in my heart. I climbed in the shower because I cannot allow this filth to stick to me the way it has been (MY residue). The cares of this world are not mine to handle. So I turned it over to my Heavenly Father. I cried out to Him in the shower. It was a lovely mess of tears and slobber and hot shower water... I cannot stand the thought of killing an unborn child. Men who molest their children are allowed to walk free, but children who never even asked to be born are okay to kill? Not so much.

The Lord spoke to me this morning in my paranoia. He said, "Do not allow the devil to make you believe you are defeated. You ARE NOT."

* I am praying more and more over that Morning Center.*

Sometimes in our exhaustion we allow the devil to rattle our faith. But in the end he is defeated. We all know where he is going when this is all over. And as far as I am concerned, he will not have me or my family. Try as he might, I will not go down...without a fight.

I love You Jesus. YOU are the Lord of all. Not HIM.

Luke 10:19King James Version (KJV) ¹⁹Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Residue: or Cindersoot versus Cinderella

2012-02-14T04:31:00.000-08:00

Sometimes there is a little residue left from our past. It looks like a dust cloud hovering about us. But it is actually a little of that choked out life left over from the old us and it tends to rest on our shoulders at the most inappropriate times. It attempts to permeate our lungs, our hearts, our minds. It causes sickness and grief. So I am asking you, my people, why do you allow that residue to remain?

Pray for a Holy Spirit gust of wind to come in and sweep that old residue away from you. Stop listening to the voices that tell you everything will NOT be okay, and just step out in faith and do what your heart is screaming to do. Stop worrying about the circumstances, and just trust the Lord. He has never let you down before. Why would He start now?

Others will try to dig up the past all around you, and the residue sometimes feels thick as soot in an old chimney, but I must warn you my lovelies that the devil lives in the soot. He is the ash king and he tries to convince Princesses that they are called Cinder-soot when in actuality the Lord would have them to place that crown upon their heads and join the royal ball.

Put on your crown (your armor) my dear heart, and look into the mirror please. Look at the Royal Warrior which stares back at you. Why are you falling for the same old parlor tricks? Are you not called? Are you not CHOSEN? Then stop this madness and just let go. You ARE who God has called you to be, and this residue is choking the life out of all you love. Shake it off and run!

Untitled (A Confession of Love)

2012-02-09T02:40:00.000-08:00

If I spent a thousand days in solitude,

In fasting and in prayer;

If I stood inside the throne room,

If I gave all my riches away.

If I lived inside the church house

(Never leaving)

night and day…

If I cast devils from the multitudes

It would not get me anywhere.

I would be no better in Your sight

Than the least of these

Than the least of these.

You don't care how well I perform.

You don't care if I am a super-warrior…

You just want my heart-

You want all of me.

I cannot perform my way into Your grace…

Your Blood gave me eternity.

No matter how many good deeds I do

It's YOUR love that set me free.

It makes me love You all the more.

To think of what You have done.

You are my truelover.

My heart You sought and won.

All my dances I save

For You and You alone.

Take me to Your secret place

My special Love

Take me into Your grace.

Never leave my side my Lover.

Never let me go.

You loved me when I was unlovable.

You held me when I failed.

You shed Your precious Life source.

To the cross my sins were nailed.

How could I deny Your love?

Or walk away from what we have?

When my own Father forsook me

YOU became my Dad.

The love You poured out all over the earth

It washed me clean as snow.

You tore me from the gates of hell.

And I want the whole world to know.

YOU and YOU alone are my best friend.

None other can take Your place.

I tried every option known to man.

But none could fill that empty space.

And everywhere I travel

And everywhere I go…

I will not deny Your holiness

May Your love through this vessel show.

I don't need anything more than You.

Come and dance with Me my Sweet Love.

Fill me with Your Spirit.

Descend upon me from above.

If I spent a thousand days in solitude,

In fasting and in prayer;

If I stood inside the throne room,

If I gave all my riches away.

If I lived inside the church house

(Never leaving)

night and day.

If I cast devils from the multitudes

It would not get me anywhere…

I would be no better in Your sight

Than the least of these

Than the least of these.

You do not care how well I perform.

You do not care if I am a super-warrior…

You just want my heart

You want all of me.

TAKE IT MY LOVE- IT IS YOURS.

More for Monday

2012-01-30T12:55:00.000-08:00

A REAL Abortion Alternative: The Morning Center

2012-01-30T06:57:00.000-08:00

This is what I am praying for in our area. We can't just tell a woman not to have an abortion and walk away to leave her to go to a Medicaid Office. For crying out loud, we need to stand up and do SOMETHING. SO I am praying, and EXPECTING God to move.

Living my Dreams

2012-01-24T05:49:00.000-08:00

*Got my first feedback on Out of Egypt, His Children Come today.

*Lead my first youth group meeting Friday night.

*Going to be a Mimi in about two to three more weeks.

*Doing well in school.

*Feeding the homeless at church again Saturday. (so grateful God gave us a church RIGHT on the highway)

*Watching my husband and kids grow rapidly in the Lord.

*All my need is being met.

Inside of Christ... The only place real dreams come true.

My Book on Kindle

2012-01-22T08:59:00.000-08:00

Finally, almost a year later, finished and on Kindle.

Price: $2.99

If you don't have a Kindle, you can download the computer version for free.

I am so excited! It is still to be professionally edited, but the Lord has laid on my heart to get it OUT. It was created for such a time as this.

Out of Egypt, His Children Come

Cover image by abbeyL Photography

Cover edit and design

New Beginnings in the New Year

2012-01-20T22:12:00.000-08:00

L.O.L. or The Faith of A Child

2011-12-21T09:52:00.000-08:00

Okay, under normal circumstances I would never post something like this... but it is too funny not to add.

My nineteen year old son is building towers out of legos with my three year old neice and my thirteen month old nephew and she keeps knocking it over...

and he says as he is rebuilding the tower,

"This is what we were supposed to do with the twin towers but the president is an idiot."

And then as he was reflecting upon his observation, my niece looks up and says, "Get over here and help me build this back up. I am tired of doing it by myself."

It takes a whole village to raise a child. And it takes more than one hard worker to rebuild a nation. It has nothing to do with who lives in the White House or who blew them up in the first place. It has to do with who lives in our hearts. Only HE can help us rebuild our nation. We can't do it by ourselves.

If you don't know Jesus as your Savior today, I pray for you. Our nation is headed for such tragedy if it doesn't turn back to the GOD who gave it to us- NOW. If kids get it, then what the crap is wrong with the rest of us?

Joshua 24:15
But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”

Shawn McDonald and the Price of Tea in China?

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

<--- I see his face, and I smile. Met him one time; and he, Jeffrey, my kids and I all ministered to one another for over an hour. Amazing sacrifice his life has been. I miss him. I pray for him and Jeffrey daily. Not even sure if they still play together or not, but I promised I would, and I do. EVERY and I mean EVERY time I hear his music, I say a prayer. THAT'S what God wants me to do. That is the call of an intercessor.

And we love you Shawn, unconditionally. No matter what happens in your life honey, you have people like me, my hubby and my kids lifting you up and holding you there. You are an amazing young man and I pray protection for you and ALL those who minister with you. Your music inspires me to be a better disciple, minister, artist, writer, dancer, etc. It humbles me. Every part of my life has changed a little for knowing you, and I still even have that stupid permanent marker you gave me at that little Thomasville concert last summer. That concert came at a time in my life I needed God most.

God is so amazing.

So know that you have prayer warriors covering you wherever you go Mr. McDonald. And know that if no one else in this world is affected by your ministry... the Watt family is. And my sister's family. And my brother's family. And my sixty-five year old Mama. That's twenty three people.

I pray your every day holds smiles for you. I pray peace for you and yours. I pray laughter and joy and amazing, overflowing, abundant, anointing power of God manifest in and work through you. I pray provision and even a little dance in your step...

Your sacrifice amazes me.

You are not alone.

In Jesus' name, all areas of your life are covered, healed, restored and set free. I can't wait to see what God does through you. Be blessed my brother.

Jae

Today is a New Day (Or Ramblings of a Coffee Jacked Mama)

2011-12-07T15:07:00.000-08:00

Today the kids (or not so kids...they are older now) power cleaned WILLINGLY! It was awesome. At first it felt as if nothing would ever get finished because there are so many little things around with the making and baking for Christmas. I have cleaned all day for two days STRAIGHT!

I cannot wait though. We have so much to look forward to. Christmas pageants and cookies and cakes and pies, decorating the rest of the tree, parties and feeding the hungry. And this year is going to be so different.

We haven't had all the kids here for a couple years at Christmas time, and I am so glad they are here for the holidays, etc. We have been cooking together, and cleaning together, decorating together... and FIGHTING together. LOL. Some of it has worked out some issues after a whole lot of years between them though (I still marvel sometimes at how I actually SURVIVED home schooling five teens).

And we have had some pretty hefty wrestling matches too!

I am so grateful to the Lord for my family. Even though we all have nuclear meltdown sometimes. God, thanks for loving my family! Thanks for being who You are. And thanks for an awesome church family who has the same visions and hopes and dreams for Your Kingdom that we do.

Its so nice to see my kids taking notes during church. And not because Mom said so... but because they want to dig in deeper. I guess letting go completely and letting them find Jesus for themselves was a good thing after all. It's been rough. Some criticized, but I kept feeling in my heart like the Amish. Rumspringa. And now they have all returned to their first love. My Jesus. What a testing time we have had. But what a rewarding end to two and a half years of being sifted. We have come out the other side stronger than we ever thought we could be.

Merry Christmas Princesses! I love and adore you all.
Princess Jae

Me and Me Again

2011-11-28T07:24:00.000-08:00

Now that says it all. This morning I am sick in bed. Feeling as if the bed has been turned at an angle, and I am holding on for dear life so as not to slip off the edge and drop to the floor.

So much good and so much not so good has been going on in my life lately. But I have come to realize something in the middle of swimming through the constant choppy waters life hands us. My family relies on me far too much. They expect me to do it all for them. Now maybe that is partially my fault. It was once prophesied over me that I missed the best God had for me because I didn't know how to say no.

Perhaps somewhere along the line I have given my entire family the impression that I ENJOY doing all the things they don't FEEL like doing... FOR them? But this has to stop. Life is too short and I have no time for me anymore. They consume my days. I need some me time. I need some air. I had more time to myself when I was home schooling. That frightens me.

Lord, give me some ME time. Give me time to do the things I need to do for myself. And I think, despite the fact that my family is full of ADULTS- I am going to create a CHORE chart. Its not just for elementary kids you know. And I am going to finally make NO part of my vocabulary.

Today I take the first steps in helping ME. Thanks for Your help Lord.

Break Your Heart

2011-11-16T17:42:00.000-08:00

Certain people (no matter how much you help them) LIE.

It gets tiring after so many times of going back for more. They use you and they lie, and the sad part is, the ones who use you the most and break your rules are the ones who are closest to you. You are expected to forgive- but you do NOT have to allow them to continue to use you or lie to you. Some people only come around to get what they can, a free ride, and they think that they can do whatever they want in YOUR home. Well, rules are rules. Not so they can be bent and broken. But to keep order, safety and peace. Don't allow yourself to be walked on. Don't allow yourself to be used. Yes go out of your way to help others, but don't allow yourself to be taken advantage of. And as you are doing all these things, keep a pure heart. Don't let anger and bitterness rule you. Ask the Lord to guide you in peace and to guard your heart and emotions, and walk boldly through life- living in a way that satisfies the Lord and does not compromise for man.

Amazing GOD

2011-11-15T16:26:00.000-08:00

All I have to say is that God never ceases to amaze me. Every time He tests us, He pours out His blessings as well. And sometimes the tests ARE the blessings. Thank You Lord.

Taken From Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein

2011-10-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

“Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter — when you see the naked, to clothe them, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood.” — Isaiah 58:6-7

If you buy lunch for $7, five times a week, that’s $140 per month. And if you buy a cup of coffee from the coffee shop every morning, at $5 each, that’s $150 per month.

Don’t get me wrong — I enjoy lunch and coffee as much as anyone, but I want to illustrate that sometimes we can find areas where we can make sacrifices for the purpose of helping those in need around us. This is the point that God made in Isaiah 58.

While fasting can be beneficial physically and spiritually, at best, it only serves to help the one doing it. And while we can spend countless hours involved in Bible study and reading the Scriptures, we can miss the boat if we think this is true worship.

Through the prophet Isaiah, God wanted to teach His people that fasting doesn’t just mean giving up something as a sign of devotion to God. True devotion to God involves helping others in need. So the type of fast that honors Him is one where someone gives up something to share with a person in need — feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, providing shelter for the homeless.

Sometimes, we live such comfortable lives that we don’t think about the great needs of others. We all need a reminder, now and then, that we are truly blessed. Even if we have trouble paying the bills, we have so much to be thankful for — our homes, food to eat, and modern comforts. These are things that many people live without. We need to remember that millions of people in America, Israel and around the world live in destitution and despair. Poverty is something we can do something about, and God says that doing something to help those in need is a way to please Him.

So the question for each of us is what would we be willing to sacrifice for God to help meet the needs of others who are destitute and desperate? Consider a “fast” from something so that you have enough to share with someone else in need — perhaps that daily cup of coffee, or a lunch out.

Giving up something, even small, and giving it to another can make a huge difference in our lives and theirs.

With prayers for shalom, peace,

Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein
President Rabbi Eckstein's Website

Help Me Jesus

2011-10-28T07:25:00.000-07:00

Please.
And thank You.

Fear Not my Faithful

2011-10-26T07:19:00.000-07:00

A Vision of Hope and Valor

2011-10-24T07:57:00.000-07:00

I had a vision this morning of each of the elders in our tribe with a huge spear in our hands. Just prior to this I had the scripture

"For we wrestle not against flesh..."

in my heart.

My husband and I touched our spears together and became one. Then my mother and my father took their spears and touched ours and our bodies almost formed a cross. Then my brother and my sister-in-law came in and touched their spears and then my sister and my brother-in-law: and all eight spears touched tip to tip in the air above us.

A spark ignited, like metal sharpening metal, lighting a torch-like flame at the head of each spear. And we broke off the bottoms of our spears and they became spears and we lit each one for all of our children (the Next Generation) and gave to them.

And the Lord said, "Take these spears and go ye into all the land and set the hearts of mankind on fire.", and we all ran in separate directions out into the world.

God's voice rang in all our hearts, "Hurry children, for time is running short."

Thank You Lord for giving us our fire

for such a time as this...

The Lord then turned me to this scripture for my daily reading-

Isaiah 55:

¹ “Come, all you who are thirsty,
   come to the waters;
and you who have no money,
   come, buy and eat!
Come, buy wine and milk
   without money and without cost.
² Why spend money on what is not bread,
   and your labor on what does not satisfy?
Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good,
   and you will delight in the richest of fare.
³ Give ear and come to me;
   listen, that you may live.
I will make an everlasting covenant with you,
   my faithful love promised to David.
⁴ See, I have made him a witness to the peoples,
   a ruler and commander of the peoples.
⁵ Surely you will summon nations you know not,
   and nations you do not know will come running to you,
because of the LORD your God,
   the Holy One of Israel,
   for he has endowed you with splendor.”

⁶ Seek the LORD while he may be found;
   call on him while he is near.
⁷ Let the wicked forsake their ways
   and the unrighteous their thoughts.
Let them turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on them,
   and to our God, for he will freely pardon.

⁸ “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
   neither are your ways my ways,”
            declares the LORD.
⁹ “As the heavens are higher than the earth,
   so are my ways higher than your ways
   and my thoughts than your thoughts.
¹⁰ As the rain and the snow
   come down from heaven,
and do not return to it
   without watering the earth
and making it bud and flourish,
   so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater,
¹¹ so is my word that goes out from my mouth:
   It will not return to me empty,
but will accomplish what I desire
   and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.
¹² You will go out in joy
   and be led forth in peace;
the mountains and hills
   will burst into song before you,
and all the trees of the field
   will clap their hands.
¹³ Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper,
   and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.
This will be for the LORD’s renown,
   for an everlasting sign,
   that will endure forever.”

Isaiah 56:

¹ This is what the LORD says:

   “Maintain justice
   and do what is right,
for my salvation is close at hand
   and my righteousness will soon be revealed.
² Blessed is the one who does this—
   the person who holds it fast,
who keeps the Sabbath without desecrating it,
   and keeps their hands from doing any evil.”

³ Let no foreigner who is bound to the LORD say,
“The LORD will surely exclude me from his people.”
And let no eunuch complain,
“I am only a dry tree.”

⁴ For this is what the LORD says:

   “To the eunuchs who keep my Sabbaths,
   who choose what pleases me
   and hold fast to my covenant—
⁵ to them I will give within my temple and its walls
   a memorial and a name
   better than sons and daughters;
I will give them an everlasting name
   that will endure forever.
⁶ And foreigners who bind themselves to the LORD
   to minister to him,
to love the name of the LORD,
   and to be his servants,
all who keep the Sabbath without desecrating it
   and who hold fast to my covenant—
⁷ these I will bring to my holy mountain
   and give them joy in my house of prayer.
Their burnt offerings and sacrifices
   will be accepted on my altar;
for my house will be called
   a house of prayer for all nations.”
⁸ The Sovereign LORD declares—
   he who gathers the exiles of Israel:
“I will gather still others to them
   besides those already gathered.”

God’s Accusation Against the Wicked

⁹ Come, all you beasts of the field,
   come and devour, all you beasts of the forest!
¹⁰ Israel’s watchmen are blind,
   they all lack knowledge;
they are all mute dogs,
   they cannot bark;
they lie around and dream,
   they love to sleep.
¹¹ They are dogs with mighty appetites;
   they never have enough.
They are shepherds who lack understanding;
   they all turn to their own way,
   they seek their own gain.
¹² “Come,” each one cries, “let me get wine!
   Let us drink our fill of beer!
And tomorrow will be like today,
   or even far better.”

Thank You Lord, and we love You.

Still Not Sure

2011-10-09T07:15:00.000-07:00

Don't know where we are headed. Don't know why we are going through this. Don't understand why I was moved here in the first place, and now have to leave, but ready to embrace whatever is coming.

A thought occurred to me this morning as I was braiding my husband's hair. So long as I have the people and things around me that I love, I can be happy anywhere. My surroundings DO NOT determine who I am. And I am determined to get through this. Every great blessing first requires a test.

Writing with a Fury!

2011-09-22T06:20:00.000-07:00

Have not forgotten my blogging duties. Having a much needed internet break, and a much needed writing breakthrough!

Working on two different children's stories, a pre-teen series and two novels. It all came crashing in about the time I left behind the internet world. Amazing, eh? Life is good!

Beauties

2011-08-25T10:56:00.000-07:00

Watch over and keep them Lord.

Absolute Sacrifice

2011-08-25T10:08:00.000-07:00

http://teachinginmalawi.blogspot.com/p/about.html

Here is a Princess I can be proud of. Her name is Jennifer Jackson. May God bless her courage and her efforts.

This is Why My Heart's Been Weeping

2011-08-23T05:40:00.000-07:00

Weep for My children. For they are lost. They rebel against My words and turn their backs to Me. Return to the streets oh child of Mine. Return and see the state my people are in. See their condition. Look deep into their eyes and see the destruction in their spirits and souls. They are lost Child. They need a comforting touch and a warm heart to set them free once more. Go. Into ALL the world.

All the world does not mean EXCEPT this certain community or that. It means ALL. Learn from the experiences and soften your heart toward the least of these. Go child. That is not a suggestion. It is My command.

All Which is Watered Shall Grow

2011-08-21T06:14:00.000-07:00

I am feeling melancholy once more. Continuously reminding myself this season is not a punishment, but a preparation. Life is good. Sadness abounds, but still... we all have a watering time. Pruning times, yes. But times full of tears which water our spirit; leave our souls refreshed and our hearts soft and fleshy once more are just as important.

Sometimes we unknowingly bury our hurt. One good way to bring it to surface so that it can be cast out is to break down and cry. Let God water our souls. Amazingly it will bring about healing. And just listen to the quiet voice of Him inside those teardrops. Each and every one is shed for a reason. He delights in seeing His children let go and let Him...

Be still little Princesses and allow Him to be who He is. The Almighty Conqueror and Creator of all. Without Him in complete control we cannot move forward into the next season of bloom.

Photo Copyright Lissy Elle 2011

Only in Him are we OVER IT

2011-08-19T05:05:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we become angry. This is so normal for the human being. But what do we do with anger and hurt? Do we allow it to fester like an infected wound, or do we pray for healing?

At the beginning of this year I took ten days alone with God to seek His face for the things which are coming. Still I am waiting (sometimes like a mad-woman void of all patience, but still waiting) for answers in certain areas of my life. But sometimes waiting is good. Sometimes the trials we go through build character and strength. And sometimes God just wants to see how long we will hold on.

In the mean time we get beat down by those who say they love us. We get walked on and used and hurt. And seasons come and go and STILL WE ARE WAITING FOR THE ANSWERS TO OUR NEED.

But hang on Princesses, because just at the very second we are ready to give up hope, God is going to come through. You know why He makes us wait? Because waiting is good. Good things come to those who wait, remember? Be patient. And understand that even though these times hurt and are very trying, the end result will be so sweet.

Love you all.

Princess Jae

Maybe One Day

2011-08-16T05:49:00.000-07:00

Feeling a little down. Prayer and fasting are definitely in order. Discouragement I bind you in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth. You'll not have my emotions Devil. Jesus says I can have joy in Him. And I DO.

Today I am Re-learning Who I Am...

2011-07-25T17:44:00.000-07:00

I sometimes forget what I stand for. I mean, obviously Jesus, yes. But what are the wrongs I pray God rights? Underprivileged kids make my heart ache. Poverty and homelessness cause me to go into meltdown. Child abuse is definitely something I am against. But sometimes I get so wrapped up in my own stinking little world that I forget what it is I STAND FOR. The Lord wants us to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, take in poor wanderers and care for the widows and orphans... These are the issues that make my chest pound. And these are the things which make my life's energy flow. Following the Lord in these areas is something I need to be doing more of. So off to my prayer closet I go. I need direction. Both short and long term. I love You Lord.

Love,
Me

When Feeling not so Pretty

2011-07-21T06:22:00.000-07:00

^{Song of Solomon 1-}

⁹ I liken you, my darling, to a mare
   among Pharaoh’s chariot horses.
¹⁰ Your cheeks are beautiful with earrings,
   your neck with strings of jewels.
¹¹ We will make you earrings of gold,
   studded with silver.

Do you ever just feel NOT pretty? Do you look in the mirror and are unhappy with what you see? Are you out of love with your heart, body, etc? Just take a look into what God's word says about His beautiful daughters. His Princesses. He LOVES you child. He LOVES you so much He sent His Son (His ONLY Son) to die on the cross for you.

John 15:13
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

The very thought of it brings tears to my eyes.

Portrait called Mary Magdalene by Jeanne Kun.

New Worship Song, I Am Persuaded

2011-07-19T18:12:00.000-07:00

A Sweet Surprise

2011-07-19T17:32:00.000-07:00

Guess who is going to have a grand baby?

*Smiles*

Picture via www.inspirefirst.com

After the Rain Comes Much Sunshine

2011-07-05T15:14:00.000-07:00

I have been to many places in this thirty nine years, done many incredibly wild things. Today was one of the most incredible of them all.

When you begin a relationship including kids in tow, you never really have the time to get to KNOW the love of your life. My husband, who is also my best friend, and I have had fourteen years together, many of which we took for granted.

We have raised five children together, my three daughters and his two sons, all of which we have considered "ours". We laughed, we cried, we had many water balloon battles. We have even had some serious screaming matches.

But up until this summer we never really knew much about each other. Because we have been so busy being parents to five of the wildest, most creative, independent, STUBBORN kids on the face of the earth. Life has been a test raising kids who had a rough beginning. To say the least.

We have gone to Missouri in a twenty-one foot motor home to clean up debris from a town destroyed by an F-5 a mile wide. We have outrun tornadoes, fought court battles to save children from abusive people, and even found ourselves in the middle of downtown Asheville, NC sleeping in a passenger van in the middle of the street (by ourselves) on the scariest night of the year.

We have never, however, had a cancer scare before. It was amazingly hard these last two and a half weeks of our life together. I have to admit. JUST at the point where we were getting to know each other like honeymooners should THIRTEEN YEARS EARLIER... a trip to the e.r. in the middle of the night left us bewildered and just about faith-shattered. They found a SPOT in his intestine. And I WAS PISSED.

"God, you have given us many visions about a long life together ministering, and we are just beginning here." I cried.

"You promised me my Prince Lord. You said it would be better. THIS is not better God. THIS.IS.SCARY."

I had myself so scared I was blacking out and finding myself fighting for air. Waking up in the middle of the night shaking and crying. Feeling lost and hopeless and abandoned by a God who said He shall never leave me nor forsake me.

But something amazing happened in these last few weeks. We have drawn closer to one another than we have ever been before. Now I am not too proud to confess my flesh wanted to run away. I wanted to escape all the madness which never seems to end in the life of someone who's left darkness to chase the Light. But the man who should have been the one being babied and prayed over, was the one with the faith and strength of ten men. When he should have been wringing his hands day and night for fear of the dreaded "c" word, he was instead proclaiming the word of GOD.

HE held ME. And it is so strange because it took me being that weak with fear of losing the best friend I have ever had to realize its okay if I just let go and let HIM be the strong one. I have always been a fighter and a fixer, but you just CAN'T FIX CANCER. You just can't. All you can do is cling together and pray and wait. Oh GOD I suck at waiting. My middle name is not Patience.

But today, after almost two weeks of playing the waiting game we got an answer that made me holler up in that doctor's office. What they thought to be cancer was not even a stomach ulcer. It is a BUG that people just seem to be getting that LOOKS like it could be cancer in the stomach or intestine... and it is TREATABLE with two months of Zantac and an antibiotic the month in between. I have to tell you Princess Jae did a happy dance in the doctor's office this afternoon. My BEST FRIEND does not have cancer. He has tummy troubles.

Thank You Jesus for yet another miracle. I am ever grateful for Your mercies and Your grace. And IKE, don't you ever scare me like that again. I need you. You are my hero.

Photography by Lissy Elle

Waiting

2011-07-02T19:49:00.000-07:00

Lord, I am waiting on You. Give me a sign. A BIG one. Please. Help Lord.

Sometimes, Again

2011-06-19T05:39:00.000-07:00

Sometimes when we are going through a pruning stage, a season of trimming away people and things from our lives... we feel alone. Melancholy. A bit discouraged.

Sometimes the pruning is not to punish, or to even say the people and things being cut from our lives are bad per se. It is simply because we were not ordained to be a part of one another's lives. Or the season of being near them is over.

I have had a season come to an abrupt end recently. The cessation has literally ripped me in half spiritually and emotionally, leaving a gaping hole where my trust and boldness used to be. Questioning my own judgment and discernment. Wondering if I really ever was who I claimed to be. Or was I just living in a dream world like so many have accused? All I can do is pray and stand firm.

The answer lies ONLY in the arms of Jesus. No matter how far a Princess (and sometimes she doesn't FEEL very royal) runs, or what avenue she travels to avoid the inevitable, there is only One who can help her through these trimming times. Through the use of His Holy Spirit, this pruning (despite the pain) can be very productive in unleashing even MORE creativity, wisdom, discernment and holiness. If a Princess allows her garden (soul) to become entangled with the weeds of the world then the good fruit and flowers cannot grow.

John 15:4
Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Husbands, Children and God

2011-06-13T17:52:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we get so busy with "life" we forget about God and family (and spouses). Sometimes we need to draw back and become one with our Lord and our spouse again. And sometimes we need to step back from life and the world and make that extra effort to be there for our children. There is no time like the present. What are you waiting for? Be there for your family. It is supposed to be your first ministry. And let the Lord have His way in your life once more. Sometimes our faith becomes so stale that we allow things into our life that don't belong there. In turn oppression comes. We cannot live this way. We need to be in Christ completely.

An Accident and a Miracle

2011-05-23T14:22:00.000-07:00

I know there weren't any angels sleeping on the job Saturday night. I have never been through something so scary in my entire life. I got a phone call at 8:39 p.m. from my girls telling me that they were in a wreck and the guy who hit them was leaving the scene.

Thank the Lord that my babies' horn was stuck because otherwise a man with a blood alcohol level of 2.18 would have gotten away.

No broken bones. No internal bleeding.

The irony of it all, they had just left the tattoo parlor as one of the girls' feet was decorated with a dogwood flower and the word "UNBREAKABLE".

Jesus Christ is Lord.

They knew they had to be home at eight thirty that night, so called me to tell me at eight they were picking up a pizza to take home. At eight twenty, I got another call saying they were almost there. At eight thirty nine I got that final call. We just never know what could happen in the blink of an eye.

And my sixteen year old was really bummed because that pizza was smashed between her and the airbag which saved her life.

Three and a half hours, two cat scans and a bunch of x-rays later- three young ladies and I WALKED OUT of the hospital. The only reason the man didn't get away with hitting Mama Jae's girls- was because some people heard the horn blaring and came flying out in the middle of the road to stop him.

My middle daughter said everything went black, and then white... and there she was temporarily blinded in the middle of the road trying to get one of the other passengers out of the caved in door. All I can say is Jesus Christ was with my girls that night. And the other guy, God bless him, went away in hand cuffs. They are scared to death now to even get into a car.

Some People Never Change

2011-05-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, no matter how many times you help a person, they still spit in your face. They use and abuse. They don't even acknowledge your existence unless they need something to begin with, and then as soon as something/someone better comes along, you are dirt once more- invisible.

In these times it is easy to want to act in the flesh and get even. It is easy to allow yourself to become overly angry and do or say something which will only cause more problems in the long run.

My only suggestion is to a) stay away from said person and b) pray for them with even more fire.

What other options do we have? If we become angry (which I have done) and talk ugliness about or to them, or if we react in a physical manner... we are no better than the one who has caused us so much hurt. So praise the Lord.

Little Blessings, Big Meanings

2011-04-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

Found out today from Natalie at the Tasha Tudor website that a little book I picked up at a library sale for fifty cents is NO LONGER AVAILABLE AND A COLLECTOR'S ITEM!!! WOW!

I am so glad to know I have a rare find. It is an awesome feeling to know that God even leads us to our heart's desires, and we don't have to pay a fortune to have them. Thank You Lord! Tasha is my favorite illustrator ever!

http://www.tashatudorandfamily.com

Changes

2011-04-20T14:35:00.000-07:00

My life is changing so quickly I can barely keep up. I cannot believe the blessings which are following so fast after our family decision. Lord, You are amazing.

Amazing Faith I Follow

2011-04-19T15:39:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning was the most amazing day I have had in a very long time. On the THIRTEENTH anniversary of my leaving the devil and his lifestyle behind, turning my life over to Jesus Christ, and becoming baptized in the the Christian faith- my entire family went forward to renew our covenant in Christ Jesus. Our walk. Our lives.

My husband, all five of my children, my daughter-in-law, my future son-in-law, my "surrogate" daughter Stephanie and I went forward to tell the Lord we are ready for whatever comes next. We want to become closer to Him and we want to walk together once more as a family. Completely.

After two long years of testing and trials, my family laid their lives before the feet of Jesus once more. We were anointed into ministry, prayed and prophesied over and just let go of all the junk that has been holding us back.

GOD.IS.GOOD.

And the battle has begun. Don't ever think for one moment princesses that being close to the Lord means you are immune to the attacks of the devil. It has been two of the hardest years I have ever endured. And that includes the years I was stuck in witch craft and drama.

The blessings that have followed are so strange and amazing that only GOD could be behind them. And I just have to say, that my faith is renewed. Thank You Jesus, for who You are, and for who You have allowed my family to become.

The Lord is My Shepherd

2011-04-14T19:38:00.000-07:00

You know, I just don't get life sometimes. Like when your kid finally gets it together and then almost dies at work. Or your friend who is sixteen only has a few months (according to doctors) to live. Or when a child finally comes out and says, "I was abused by my biological parent.", and you try to reach out, but they run away.

Then there are the times where those same people realize God is the only rational answer to their trials, and through their struggles become the best stinking testimony life could offer, and they blow everyone around them away with their gigantic size faith.

Sometimes I want to scream 'WHY GOD?! WHY?!'

But then I remember, because it must be. We all must live the life God has chosen for us. Some of us go on to do great things like lead thousands to the Lord. But others, live a quiet little existence, and then are just simply- GONE. God wants us to be satisfied with our lot in life, regardless of whether it be good or bad.

I am glad I have the Lord to lean on in these times of trial. My children, husband and I have been through so much throughout our lives and still came out on the other side kicking and screaming and spitting in the devil's face. I am so proud of what the Lord has done in this bunch. Because although they can be downright rebellious at times, they rarely question God's will.

Cover Makeover

2011-03-29T05:12:00.001-07:00

After many months of being SURE God spoke to my heart, of believing I was to give Zula away on Amazon, of Amazon re-assuring me I COULD give it away, I found a little disclaimer last night on their pricing page which said they are not allowing that at this time.

No one can GIVE their stuff away.

Although it is disappointing, it shows me that what I heard God say a few weeks ago is true. I was being tested, and was willing to GIVE away what He had for me.

That was why I went ahead and went for ONE more contest. Because He said to. I was willing to sacrifice my "child" on the altar at God's leading (give the book away), and He provided the ram in the bush when He saw I was determined to be obedient.

There were only 180 submissions and mine was one of them. They gave me permission to go ahead and send. I was so excited, and I just felt a stirring inside me that has not been there for a long time. An awakening. As if it is finally time to step into my calling. My years of testing are over, and it is time to move forward with what God has given to me.

So this will (after some more editing) be the cover of the first book. Regardless. It is one of the few things I will not back down on.

And I am going to go with my gut and move forward with getting this child of mine in print. Praise God for testing, but also for blessing.

I love You Jesus.

Jeannette

At Long Last

2011-03-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

We are at long last in the process of uploading Zula onto Amazon for Kindle and e-book form. It will be available no later than mid-April, depending upon how quickly Amazon moves. We are also looking into other websites for digital readers and e-book availability. Praise the Lord!

Be looking for these items soon! Woot!

Pearls Before Swine

2011-03-23T05:21:00.000-07:00

Matthew 7:6-

Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their feet, and turn again and rend you.

Sometimes we feed people spiritually that don't want to be fed; and they vomit it back upon us. Sometimes we try to teach a person to have faith and to forgive, but they would rather latch onto that old familiar spirit which keeps them company, that they know and understand, than to have freedom which is something they are not FAMILIAR with. They believe it better to hang onto the poison of bitterness... than to let go and let God take control.

Sometimes it is because they are young. Sometimes it is a matter of God's timing and not ours. But sometimes it is because they are stubborn.

Princesses, beware. Do not continue to as my grandmother used to say, 'beat a dead horse'. Your time and energy are far too vital to waste your breath on someone who is going to throw it back at you anyway. There are others in the world who are more than happy to receive what it is you have to offer. Seek God's face for direction and timing.

Let GOD have His time and way in your lives today. Please. It will save you so much headache and heartache. I promise.

The Consequence is the Prize

2011-03-16T02:27:00.000-07:00

Something occurred to me this morning. One can only play games with the Lord for so long...and then the consequences become the prize...

What kind of prize is that?

Serving the Lord means even if you want to blast someone for something they've done you have to turn the other cheek AGAIN.

It means when you want to run away and hide from the truth, you need to FACE it anyway.

It means you can't stick up up your middle finger at someone for cutting you off in traffic.

It means you can't be ADDICTED to ANYTHING...except HIM.

It means you can be forgiven (and have the ability to forgive).

It means you can find healing and deliverance.

It means you can find peace, joy, and an everlasting life...

I think I will stick with Jesus.

I really don't like the other prize.

He's definitely an epic win...

I Miss you Daddy

2011-03-09T18:30:00.000-08:00

Ten years ago today I said good-bye to my biggest hero. My dad. On my twenty-ninth birthday he called me to talk, said I love you more times than I think I had heard in years, and for the first time ever, he said he was proud of me. And then thirteen hours later he collapsed on his bathroom floor and died of a massive heart attack.

I got my smart (ehem) mouth Irish attitude from him. My rotten sense of humor. My sarcastic way of looking at things. My wisdom. My nose. My worrying. My overprotective ways. My temper. My need to take in every stray. My obsession with helping other people. My desire to feed the hungry. My need for Jesus. My love for telling stories. My push to do the one thing I know I am good at.

He used to tell me I was going to grow up and be a mom. I was always like, WOOHOO thanks dad. But now I get it. A mom is the most important job in the world. Because a good parent raises kids who don't just influence the world. They INFECT it. With laughter, advice, dancing, poetry, paintings, flowing fabrics and smiles. They leave their mark in the lives of others. And they SURE don't take any CRAP from the enemy.

Thanks Dad, for making me the fire ball I am. I face my fights head on. Because of you.

The Tide Floweth Toward Me

2011-03-07T07:20:00.000-08:00

Day-dreamy wishes on ripples offshore.
the tide is returning
with blessing evermore.
Once I was sad
but now my joy restored...
The rope cannot easily be broken
that is fashioned of three chords.
The strength of many returning
to find peace once more...
and my heart bursts with yearning
as the ripples return to shore.

J.S. Watt
March 7, 2011

Photo by Lissy Elle

Signs From God

2011-02-27T07:18:00.000-08:00

I have been asking God to show me a sign that we are doing the right thing. I was told a long time ago by a well trusted prophet that it is all right for me to ask for a fleece line... and I always want to make sure that what I am doing is in HIS will and timing, NOT my own.

This morning I was sitting in our den on the old denim couch working on Zula so she will be ready by March, and along came not one, but TWO blue birds. A male, and his mate.

From the time I was an adolescent these birds would perch near whatever window I sat next to in the winter to let me know God was watching over me.

Butterflies in the summer, and blue birds in the winter. Beautiful creatures. I am so excited to know that I am doing what it is God wants. That He is watching over me, and pleased with my efforts. Those birds perched together close by the sliding glass door so I could see for myself God is watching over me.

Thanks Lord. I am glad to know that You are with us in our decisions and efforts.

Oil

2011-02-26T06:57:00.000-08:00

I am working on the ending of a tale about a girl who destroyed an entire army of abusive societies by faith in Christ, and something occurred to me.

Since I have begun to wrinkle (*gasp*, she said that...I AM THIRTY NINE GIRLS)... I have resorted to several types of lotions and creams, and have even begun to use Oil of Olay.

But the amazing thing is, the answer to all our "wrinkles" in faith can be smoothed out with a simple bottle you cannot buy on the shelf @ Target Princesses...

Who needs Oil of Olay,

when I have

Oil of the Lord

LOL, more to come. Inspiration moment...going to blog on anointing and faith soon. Love you all!

Jasmine

2011-02-24T02:20:00.000-08:00

Welcome Jasmine Garrett. She is an urban Princess from N.C. with plenty of flair. She attends early classes at her community college and excels at all she puts her mind to. I admire Jasmine for her fun attitude and her love for life. Thumbs up Jasmine! You are a true Princess.

As I look around my room, I spot a few things (for example, a piggy bank and basket) that have the word Princess on them. This brings me to remember when I was growing up, being the only daughter my parents have, I always held the title “Daddy’s Little Princess.”

I still do hold the title. I remember it always used to bring a smile to my face when I heard my daddy call me his little princess. It still does.

In my opinion being considered a princess is a term of endearment. It means you are loved, beautiful, trusted, and adored. What better feeling could there be?

Purple has always been my favorite color, because it is known as the color of royalty, and of course being ‘Daddy’s Little Princess“, that made me royalty.

Now as I write this, I think of my other Daddy, and how I am His princess as well. God ,being our Father, created each and every one of us girls to be His princess. He loves us. He thinks we are each beautiful. He trusts us. He adores us.

Once again, what better feeling than to think that our father, who sent His only son to die on the cross for our sins, that is capable of anything and everything, the man who created the entire world, thinks that highly of us?

I can’t think of any.

So if your ever feeling down, or ugly, or that you don’t belong: thinking anything less of yourself than what you are: always remember that you are Daddy’s Little Princess.

-Jasmine Nichole Garrett

Day Ten

2011-02-24T02:14:00.000-08:00

A bit of an emotional day. Under fire all day. But after all these things, I am still standing. We have been searching the Lord to know Him more and to better understand what it is He is saying. One thing I know for sure, we are not budging until HE shows us exactly what to do. Lord, thank You for being an on time God. And thank You for Your divine wisdom and love. I hope this time away makes a change in our hearts. And I hope the things which have been taking place in our home will continue. All the praise, glory and honor are to You my Jesus.

Nine

2011-02-22T06:09:00.000-08:00

I can't think of a time in life where I didn't think of winter as the season of death. And as much as I hate to say I miss the tons of snow we had up north- this picture excites the crap out of me. I want spring, and then summer. I want to share some fun times with my kids again. I want to go to the B-E-A-C-H. Go to the river and canoe and tube... have FUNNNNNNNNNNN.

I have always had issues with winter. I always feel as if my brain is asleep. And God has to continuously work in me (twice as hard I think LOL) in the winter. I thought for sure it would be better in the south. But it isn't. There are still dark, gray clouds and skies. No pretty green grass or leaves on trees. But the truth is, I have become very lazy this last year. Through last winter until now. I have not worked on any major writing or art. I have just "existed".

That was exactly what the Lord laid on my heart. I haven't been LIVING. Just EXISTING. I want that laugh that stayed with me two months straight to be there TWENTY-FOUR/SEVEN. I want to run and play. I want to minister through the arts. Even if it is only to the people of my own town. They need it more than others I think, anyway. I have come to the understanding that the old season is over, and a new one is beginning. One where we do not follow, but lead...completely. And THAT, dear Princesses, is what we are going to do. I am so glad of this ten days of solitude and quiet. Although some don't understand it when we pull away to hear God more clearly, sometimes it has to be done.

Be looking Thursday for a blog entry from a good young friend of mine named Jasmine. She is AWESOME!

Be blessed my Princesses. And my other friends.

-Jae

Eight is Beyond Great!

2011-02-21T17:39:00.000-08:00

Today was a day of complete awesomeness. A day of sweet smiles and sighs.

I am so glad things are going the way they are. And I know God is preparing to move upon my family in a huge tidal wave and flood... His Spirit is going to take over every fiber of our being to the point our senses are not even our own. Some of us have witnessed outpourings of this immense proportion in the past. But we have lost that umph/edge somewhere along the way. It is time, in the name of Jesus Christ, for all of us...ALL.OF.US. to walk in sweet eternal victory.

Thank You Lord for Your continuous stirring. Let us not fall into a false sense of security of peace Lord. Not a single step outside Your perfect path and timing. All I can say is this, IT IS ABOUT TIME.

*HALLELUJAH!!!*

On the Seventh Day, He Rested

2011-02-20T07:59:00.000-08:00

God is faithful to answer all my questions. Received real direction today. I am blessed. And so are you Princesses. Sometimes letting go of the worry and the pain, are all that is necessary. Sometimes we need to talk to people we can trust. And sometimes we just need to shut up and
be alone with Jesus.

Five and Six

2011-02-19T18:23:00.000-08:00

Ever feel inappropriately armed?

Yesterday and today were both total attack. No matter what I said, it was misunderstood. And I knew if I DIDN'T say anything, it would offend. So... I opened my mouth. My stupid, haven't you learned yet when the Devil is trying to ensnare you...you DUMMY...mouth. And it made things worse.

I finally just left the house, and went to sit in a parking lot to worship the Lord, and heard His voice speaking clear direction. The very thing I have been praying about... and got slammed AGAIN.

Headed for my prayer closet. Going to stay there. Got too much to do to sit and let stuff get to me. Lord just show me what to do, please.

Three and Four

2011-02-17T16:02:00.000-08:00

The more I draw away and move inward toward God, the more I realize He is doing something so far above my thinking and my ways.

It is amazing. This morning I came to the conclusion that sometimes He will use pushing one downward in order to lift another up. It hurts the one being pushed downward... especially if they have become accustomed to their position and calling. But what is the true meaning of following Christ anyway? Not position or place or even our own needs. It is about building up the body of Christ that we ALL may bring others to know Him and come to Him.

I am God's daughter and resolve to being content with where He leads me. Especially if my decreasing means the faith of another might increase.

Thank You Lord for using me however You see fit. However You want to use me, just help me to be in Your path. Help me not to speak out of turn, or move too quickly or too slowly. Help me Lord. For I cannot act on my own.

Break me down Lord, that I might be where You need me EXACTLY.

Second

2011-02-15T02:25:00.000-08:00

On my way to taking my husband to meet the man he carpools with this morning (around fifteen past four) I saw a moon which wasn't quite as colorful as this, but just as large, resting atop my mountain. The clouds were so perfectly placed around them that no man in his right mind could deny that the fingers of God traced through the sky to match them perfectly with His night light.

It shone so bright I nearly came to tears. I was in awe of such wonder and beauty. It makes me smile in the midst of this spiritual quest I am on, to see such a lovely thing surrounded by tiny lights both in the atmosphere and on the earth.

I seek my Father's truth and answers. Not digging and whining in the throne room of God, but further opening my heart to allow His beauty to permeate all those areas which life has tried relentlessly to taint. This morning His beauty DID permeate those places. Had a camera been in my car, I would have been alongside the road in the middle of the night taking pictures.

I am no man's toy nor fool. I have a mind of my own. A creative spirit. And sometimes I think people underestimate me, find me simple and unworthy. Part of the reason I dig deeper into my spiritual walk with the Lord. Because He made me a promise the day I accepted Him. It went a little something like this:

I WILL NEVER LEAVE YOU NOR FORSAKE YOU.

I am going to live for the Lord completely, even if it means going against man's understanding and opinion. Even if it means my own children walk away from me. Even if it means I haven't a friend in the world other than Jesus Christ to lean upon. Jesus made many enemies in His lifetime. And entire generations have followed those legions of demons who blaspheme His holy name. But this tiny little nobody who dwelleth upon the mountain's side is no man's puppet. The more I settle under the feathers of my Maker's wings this week, the more I realize, I have to be my own person and not commanded by the orders of others. My husband and I need to get our walk together...at the same speed... and move forward in what GOD has called us to do. Not man.

Photograph found on stargazing.net via google.

New Journey

2011-02-14T05:14:00.000-08:00

Seeking answers. Ten days worth. Want to be on the right track, in the right place, and for the Lord to reveal some truths to me and my family. In all reality, we just need a miracle. We want our entire family to be back inside the very heart of Jesus, completely back to our first Love...

I feel led to start a ten day quest. Ever since I found something online about cleansing. And THEN my husband found that book, and my sis found a very special prayer we prayed in the past...

I know the best way to search deeper for answers, and this is definitely proof that it is time to not only cleanse our dwelling place and selves, but to seek God's true heart in the matters of our home, our family, and our ministry. We can listen to all the words MAN has to say in the world, but truth be known, I am waiting on my Father for permission and instruction.

So here I go, day one. Piece of cake (or rather bottle of water). Jesus, I love You. And I seek Your face this day. Happy Valentines Jesus. Happy heart day Princesses.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/janoid/329665987 click here for more photos on flickr by Janoid.

The Devil Never Sleeps OR Alone Time With Jesus

2011-02-13T14:28:00.000-08:00

I was looking for photos of how Satan is always awake and lurking...but that would only glorify him, and I am sure not about to give HIM any kudos. Except maybe

WAY TO BURN BEELZEBOB!

*WOOT! WOOT!*

I don't know if it is just me, or what. But I suddenly feel the desire to draw away from man, hide inside the Lord.

I accepted a challenge a little while back, and I have been waiting on God to move, because it is HIM who is the owner of the Universe, and has all the answers, not me. And it is almost as if in order to know better how to answer that person, I have to get closer to the subject at hand. THE LORD.

But today I feel very melancholy. Almost as if the Lord is pulling at my heart.

My husband found this book about pruning your family tree and breaking oppression. Some of the complaints made in that book (in the first chapter) are ones I have heard those around me say.

I know we ALL go through times in our lives where we have to cut off some dead branches and burn them. When we have to hide inside Jesus and allow Him to purify and cleanse us.

But something is different. As if moving in ANY direction for ANY reason is only going to be spinning my wheels. Pretty hard for someone who is on the go constantly to just BE STILL... The adrenaline rush of moving, moving, moving is a bit like a drug for me. But right now I need to sit still. Because otherwise the answers that others are depending upon me to find through prayer and such, WILL GO UNHEARD BY ME.

I don't even know if this blog entry has any value to anyone other than me. Maybe I just needed to write this down to get it out of my head and to verify to myself that it is okay to rebuke drama and just BREATHE for crying out loud.

I am not the world's best example. And people are always quick to remind me of such. But I do know this. My heart is open dear Lord to either lead or not lead. To either go or not go. To either move forward or not move forward. Whatever YOURRRRRR will is Father, THAT I shall follow.

Reality check. Don't worry about everything else. Just stop, breathe and WAIT. Reflect. Enjoy the quiet. Don't let Satan steal that respite. Slow down brain. Don't allow the bajillion things that keep trying to steal your joy and peace get you down.

Not even the cat who smacks her head up against your face several times in the middle of the night to let you know she just emptied her dish. Or the dogs who love to drag dead animals around your front yard. Or the teenagers who break your heart continuously. Or the people who pretend to be your friend to your face, but STAB YOU the second you turn your back on them. Or the finances. Or the need for another car. Or the dishes which are still piled up in the kitchen...

HEY LOOK! THE SUN IS SETTING OVER THE MOUNTAIN... had you not been still in the little pink room which will either house a little girl or it won't- you would have just missed that (get the hint?).

God is moving Princess. That is all that matters. EVER.

Seriously?

2011-02-11T05:58:00.001-08:00

Is it just a dream?
Because I mean
everything seems...
to be filled with drama.
To coin an old phrase
from back in the days
girl...
SAVE IT FOR YO MAMA...

Unless I AM yo mama,
in which case
there is no room
for shrieking
in this place...

Chill the heck out
put away the whine
and pout
ya' need to grow
and
leggo'
of
yo'
D-R-A-M-A.

Aaaaggghhh, teenage girls. Gotta' love them. Even when you would rather run the other way and hide until adolescence is over. Sigh.

Sighs

2011-02-02T00:34:00.000-08:00

Found this pic on a snow update on yahoo this morning. A reminder of innocent trust and joy. Of sweet surrender.

Oh Mondays.

2011-01-31T09:28:00.000-08:00

It's like when I woke up this morning the un-god (Satan) was waiting with an attack of argumentative souls.

All I have to say is, "It's Monday."

This nation (world) is so full of their own blinded opinions that the Word of God is compromised for good or sometimes bad intentions.

There are so many ideas of what is acceptable and what is not, of what discipline is and is not. The lines between black and white (and no I am not talking about skin color) are so blurred that they are nothing more than a muddy gray.

Come swiftly Lord Jesus. LOL. Rescue me from the monotony of man's opinions. And help me to walk in YOUR precepts and not my own.

For the Young and Young at Heart

2011-01-28T09:41:00.000-08:00

Free Paper Toys From The Toymaker!

My True New Year's Resolution...

2011-01-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

My New Year's resolutions are usually a mile long, and like many others, last about three days into the new year. I make many promises to myself that I never fulfill. I make all sorts of plans and I don't follow through.

This one thing I need to do... it is a multi-layered thing, but still, I am going to do this for ALL of 2011, and hopefully until the end of this life.

I AM GOING TO BE THE BEST ME I CAN BE.

There is nothing else I can be. Me. But me means, I am going to make myself smile, even when I don't want to. It means I will not get out of bed feeling tousled or grumpy. It also means not worrying. Or complaining. Or immediately looking around me at all the undone piles of work.

My biggest rule for me this year is, whatever I do, I shall give it my all. This does not mean perfection. And this does not guarantee that I will even do good according to the standards of others. It just means MY best.

Especially in matters of the heart. My family, my ministry, my self-image. Look into the mirror and see myself as something other than a frizzy haired middle aged has been whose kids are grown and have no need for "Mom".

I have spent many years beating myself to a pulp because of the opinions of others and because I have little confidence in who I am, and what I am capable of doing. This can no longer be. My life's worth is not measured by how many others applaud my efforts. My worth is found in Christ alone. He saved my soul, and that is what is most important.

As I was chewing on this fact earlier I realized how important it really is. To be saved I mean. It actually brought tears to my eyes.

My main goal (and this can only be accomplished by continuing to work on the above issues) this year is to bring as many souls to Christ as the Lord will allow. To bring them to the excitement of knowing there IS a "higher" being who CAN and WILL allow them into a beautiful eternity. But it doesn't stop there. I want to teach others the intimacy I have known inside Christ's warm and loving arms. I want them to understand the true meaning of His love. I can only do this by allowing me to love myself... and know that no matter how badly I could possibly screw up this life, if I love HIM FIRST, everything else will fall into place.

There is no greater gift to bring to a person than the love of Jesus Christ. I feel such a stirring when I think of that. The awesome feeling of being an instrument in the hands of the Master Artist Himself, to bring others to a forever relationship with Him. An eternity worth living for. It is the only thought that makes my smile genuine and lasting.

Dear Lord,
Help me to be all I can be this year for YOU. Help me to give my best efforts even when I am tired or down or grumpy. Help me to smile, and SHOW that love of Yours to EVERY PERSON I encounter each day, beginning with myself and the ones who are closest to me. Help me to be tough, but not too tough, soft, but not a sissy, have tear-filled awe, but not be a cry baby and to be joy-filled in all situations. Most of all Dear Lord, help me not to allow the opinions and junk of others to stop what You are doing in and through me...and help me not to fall in their muck and mire as I am helping to pull them out.

In Christ's name I HUMBLY pray. Amen.

Turning Darkness into Light

2011-01-10T06:20:00.000-08:00

Lately I have watched many people fall into deception and manipulation. Either they have been the culprit or victim. What is wrong with the body of Christ today? Hello?

Some want to wave around their authority. Some are filling others with empty promises. Some want to bully and control, and do so in ways where there are no witnesses to their trouble causing. But GOD sees what they are about. He sees their secret sins.

All darkness is brought into Light Princesses. If you are hiding something, DON'T. It will only make things worse. Talk about it. Tell on yourself or the person who is causing your problem. If you are the problem, dig deep down in and ask God what the underlying issue is. Because God doesn't want us to live secret or double lives. One person in front of Christians, and something entirely different when there are no witnesses to see.

Be who God made you to be. Period.

Hate and What God Says

2011-01-08T07:10:00.001-08:00

Wow, two for one special today. As God was laying on MY heart a song, He was laying some encouragement on another heart to share.

This is Erin Foster from rural West Virginia. She is a Princess of a Higher Calling. Sixteen and in eleventh grade, she listens to the voice of the Lord. I am proud to say this Princess is my little cousin. And very close indeed to the heartbeat of the Father... Thanks Erin for giving me permission to post this beautiful article on our blog.

Hate is a very strong word. So, have you ever thought about it in this way: Those people that you ‘hate’, what are they going through at home? What are they going through in their life away from school, their life away from work? And have you thought about this: Each and every one of those people that you ‘hate', God LOVES. He loves them, even if they are hard headed, rude, or unlikeable. You do not have to LIKE them, but you are commanded to LOVE them.

John 13:34

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

It is important to love everyone, for we are supposed to be like Christ. As Christ loves, so should we.

Here is what the Bible tells us that love is:

1 Corinthians 13:4-8a

“Love is patient. Love is kind. Love does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. Love is not rude, or arrogant. It is not self-seeking (insist on its own way), it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongdoings. Love does not delight in doing evil but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never ends.”

So, that is a lot right?! I mean if that is what love is, I have not the correct love for my friends or even my family-let alone one that I only know of in school!

I have a story to share.

One day at school, in my English class, I was fed up to the point I might have burst had not the God of love spoke to me. I was on the verge of exploding, when I decided I should pray. I only remember praying this: God they are so…. sooo….unlovable…

As soon as I said that, I had this feeling in my heart, that I know was God’s still small voice and it said this: They are not unloveable, for I love them. They are so loved. I love them as I love you. They may not love or care about me, but I love them anyway. And you need to love them, too.

Oh, wow! Though I already knew this, God reminded me and it stuck with me, for sure. I knew then, that since God loves them, so must I. I am commanded to, just as you are commanded to love those you think are unloveable.

Matthew 5:44

Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.

^This is hard to do, for in this messed up world we were taught to love your friends and hate your enemies, but as the Father loves your friends, He also loves your enemies; so as He does that, so you must. For it is also a commandment.

Now, let me tell you this, I am not telling you this that I may tare you down or degrade you in any way. For you are my brothers and sisters in Christ, in which I am supposed to encourage and uplift, not tear down. Encouraging you in your life with Christ is what I am trying to do. I am attempting to help and encourage you in the way that the Lord encourages, rebukes, and shares with me. He speaks to me through His word and through others and many other ways.

Love, your sister in Christ, Erin

A Re-Make/Re-Take

2011-01-08T06:35:00.000-08:00

I have had the tune in my head for "Just the Way You Are" forEVER! I just kept singing "Jesus I love You, just because YOU ARE." Over and over.

Well, this morning, it came out. Praise be to the Father... He gave me words to glorify HIM through that song. And I feel I need to share them. If for some zany reason anyone feels led to use it, be my guest. Just make sure you give credit to the Lord, and don't say, "Look what I wrote."

Oh His words, His words
They put the stars to shining
His life-sacrifice
Came back to life without trying.

He's so beautiful.
And I'll praise Him every day.

When I gave my life
to live for Him completely
no one believed.
It's so it's so
sad to think
THEY DON'T SEE WHAT I SEE.

When He asks, Child will you follow me today?
I say

When I see your grace;
there's not a thing in life I'd change.
Lord You're amazing.
Just because you "ARE".

And when You smile,
I just stop and stare for a while.
Jesus You're amazing
Just the way You are!

The nail scars the nail scars
He came to this earth to save me.
His voice-His voice
People think I'm a little crazy.

But He's beautiful.
And I'll praise HIM every day.

Oh you know, you know you know,
His love'll never ever change.
If perfect is what you're searching for
Then just call His name.

So don't even bother asking
If the Lord's okay
You know I'll say

When I see Your grace
There's not a thing in life I'd change.
Lord You're amazing
Just because YOU ARE.
And when I see Your smile
I just stop and stare for a while.
Jesus You're amazing...
Just the way You are.

When I see YOUR GRACE
There's not a thing in life I'd change.
Lord You're amazing
Just because You are.
And when I see Your smile
I just stop and stare for a while.
Jesus You're amazing.
JUST THE WAY YOU ARE.

J. S. Watt
(adapted from original by Bruno Mars)

Visions and Dreams

2011-01-06T12:10:00.000-08:00

God's word says in Acts 2 that in the LAST DAYS the sons and daughters shall have dreams and visions...and even talks about gifts for as lowly as His handmaidens. The word of God does not lie.

Today I was cleaning out my studio. Everything had become piled up and cluttered, and that really interrupts the flow of creativity. So I went about cleaning, and setting things straight. In the process of doing so, I came across a little leather bound book I write my dreams and visions (and words God speaks to me). I opened the book and began to read.

Inside this book were some very intense dreams I have had over the last year, and the scary part is, they are coming to pass. Some of this is good. Some of it is bad.

Some of the dreams pertain to my moving on without those who have held me back over the last several years. Those who have turned from a true relationship with the Lord, and moved on to a New-Age version. One which serves their needs instead of the Lord's.

In one of these dreams I was standing in a ball field where many people were watching a marching band play. They were in the shape of a star, and were singing Christian songs, but changing the words. In the last song they sang, they changed the words 'Jesus is the Savior' to Jesus WAS the Savior. New Age, changing the words to fit every religion.

Despite WHAT people think, there will NEVER be one world unity through gathering all religions as one. People still have a mind of their own. It is merely a plot. And as far as I am concerned, Jesus is the only "religion" I need.

I, for one, am tired of seeing the crap that people call a relationship with the Lord anymore. I want to see people get back to the life Christ had intended for His children. It is not a good thing for God's people to forget the things which His words says. To have a form of religion full of tickle me moments.

Do you all want to stand up and fight? Or do you want to sit back and watch what little religious freedoms we Christians have be swallowed up in the belly of the beast? Do something lovers of God (I mean the REAL God). Be in Him, and not in ourselves. We need to act quickly and become true Kingdom Dwellers, for it will not be long before the trumpet is sounded. Not long at all.

Hitting Satan Where it Hurts

2011-01-02T23:34:00.000-08:00

Borrowed this pic from a feather adrift. Although it was used for a post called rescued by Satan, LOL, I kinda' like the idea of a fried demon. Reminds me of what the devil will have one day.

Satan will never stop trying girls. He will try to trick you into doing things that God's word speaks against.

It's a lie as old as time, beginning with, Genesis 3:4- "You shall not surely die."

Don't fall into the trap of believing the things you are doing wrong are okay. I am not judging. I still struggle with that big mouth of mine (words). I am no angel. But I am a Princess. And Princesses strive for a better life. That means decisions we make, words we speak, actions and reactions. But how, you ask, do we know for sure when something is wrong?

By knowing the Word of God. If you read it, it is in you. It WILL come back up to surface when its needed. His word says that HIS WORD shall not return void. So read it. Know it. Allow Him to write it in your heart. Because if THAT is in there, then it is much easier to resist those evils which seem to haunt us. And much easier to recognize truth from deception.

Know your Word Princesses. How else are you going to be able to wear a crown and still carry a sword? Kick him where it hurts girls. Throw God's words and promises in the devil's face and defeat the enemy every time.

Old Favorites

2010-12-27T10:51:00.001-08:00

In my boredom today I began to google beautiful illustrations for inspiration for the new "pink" bedroom in our house. I found two of my favorites. Tasha Tudor and Trina Schart Hyman.

Here are some examples of their work....gotta' love the fairie tales...

True Christmas Spirit

2010-12-27T05:44:00.000-08:00

Okay, a little late, I will admit. But I need to blog about true Christmas spirit. It's all over me this morning. Life is so good to us, and sometimes we are too stubborn to see it.

I used to spend hundreds and hundreds of dollars on kids for Christmas. We did all the Christmas plays and went to see light displays and made a meal big enough to give us at LEAST six days of left overs.

But none of the hustle was rewarding, or fulfilling. It isn't about how many pies you bake. Or how many presents you buy, wrap, give, or open. It SURE isn't about that tree that sits in the big room until the day after New Year's.

True Christmas spirit is about the man who's birth we celebrate. Its about simply loving your family for who they are, and BEING who you are in Christ.

I had the privilege of taking all three of my princesses to see the New Narnia movie. I don't normally condone magick in movies, but this one, has a Christian message. We laughed together, held hands, cried, and ate tons of popcorn. Drew (my young Prince) decided he would rather see Tron, and that's okay I guess, because I needed some girl time with the three beauties in my life. They are growing up and this opportunity doesn't present itself very often. So off we went, and had a blast doing so.

We came home and made cookies (yes, I am contradicting myself here, but there is a point to the madness). My oldest Princess mixed up a batch of the best chocolate chip cookies I have ever tasted. I kind of fell off the diet wagon for Christmas time but I can't miss it when my babies make home made goodies. It would be an insult, right? (sure, that excuse will do it)

They also made stained glass cookies, and we did stick with some of the old family traditions, but I just have to tell you, the fact that I got to be with four of my five children that night, was the only Christmas I had asked the Lord for (except for a new whistling tea kettle like Grandma's...the old one went kaput). It was the only Christmas I needed. And then I found the video I posted Christmas day on facebook, and I watched it half a dozen times or more, and cried every time.

The simple treasures of the Savior's birth melted inside my heart this year. The fact that He came here JUST FOR ME. It makes me realize that it is more important for me to be a mom, and to teach my children truth and justice, than any other dream a woman could have.

It makes me feel:

LIKE A PRINCESS.

A Social Network Christmas

2010-12-25T05:38:00.000-08:00

Found this on facebook. It made me cry. Merry Christmas.

Give a mosquito net for Christmas

2010-12-19T06:09:00.000-08:00

Give a mosquito net for Christmas

Laughter is Still the Best Medicine

2010-12-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

Last night was so incredible. We went out to grab a bite to eat and hung out in town with our kids. We went to the thrift store and to WalMart. We had a good time... but had an even better one when we got home.

My two youngest daughters and I just hung out sprawled out across my bed saying stupid and inappropriate things. Yes, I know, we shouldn't allow our children to say gross things, right?! But sometimes they need to know they can trust you to talk about ANYTHING...

And so we did. We giggled and passed gas and made such comments. Some of the things we talked about, I didn't know my teenage girls even KNEW. But the thing is, if they don't think they can trust you to talk, they are NOT going to talk. I am glad they opened up and were not afraid to be themselves around me. It was long overdue. I experienced pee your pants laughter last night for the first time in a long, long while.

Thanks to my Princesses for hanging out with Mom. I want to be the kind of chica again that makes her kids smile and say, "SHE-is-COOL."

Fear

2010-12-12T23:49:00.000-08:00

Fear, a crippling disease of the mind. An even more serious condition of the heart and soul.

Fear causes the break up of marriages. It creates gossip and retaliation. It incapacitates lives. It mangles hopes and dreams. It has caused school shootings, car bombings, and two world wars.

Dictionary.com says fear is emotion aroused by impending danger, evil, etc., whether the threat is real or imagined; feeling or condition of being afraid.

Perhaps you have had trauma in your life. Serious illness. Abuse or tragedy, or neglect in some form. Perhaps you were told you would never amount to anything. Or that you were ugly, fat or stupid. Perhaps you were abandoned by a parent, only to hear them claim later in life that it was not their fault. Whatever your circumstances are, fear will only maim you, put you out of commission.

Fear=Lack of Faith.

Hmmm...

I once knew a woman who hit her children repeatedly and locked them in closets because she was afraid that they would hurt her. I am sure it stemmed back to childhood trauma in her own life, but that ugly demon of fear had her so wrapped up in chains that she could not see past her own pain and paranoia. She traumatized her children far worse than she herself had been traumatized. And missed a great deal of fun years raising them in the mean time.

I too, am guilty of living in fear. I have choked the life out of my children at times because I was afraid to allow them outside our doors. Our own past abuses caused me to hold them under my wings so tightly that they developed a spiritual allergy to my feathers, so to speak.

We cannot continue to live in our own fear. We have to allow ourselves to have in our hearts what the opposite of fear is... LOVE.

1 John 4:18 says-

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

But how do we achieve that perfect love? By spending much time in the presence of the Lord, that's how. We cannot throw the responsibility of our spiritual condition on our place of worship. Well, not always anyway. There comes a time in every Christian's walk where they have to learn to stand on their own: not depend upon a church, a pastor, a Christian counselor, or even an accountability partner to help them along the path.

Spending time in a building listening to music, getting those feel good goosebumps is not all there is to worship and relationship with Jesus Christ. Praying in tongues, is not "the answer". Doing great acts and deeds, is not going to get you anywhere either. Being the best youth pastor on the face of the planet will gain you no merit. Performing signs and wonders in the name of Jesus Christ, will not change a thing in your own heart. Fasting until you feel as if you could fall out in the floor, will produce no results...unless your heart is in it for the right reasons.

Revelation 2:4&5 says-

⁴ Yet I hold this against you: You have forsaken the love you had at first. ⁵ Consider how far you have fallen! Repent and do the things you did at first. If you do not repent, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place.

You must be willing to humble yourself within God's presence. Come to a realization that without Him, no thing is possible. You can do nothing in this life aside from Him. And that You need a secret, quiet place where you can be alone and intimate with Him. Not just a show in front of other people. But who are you in the privacy of your own home?

What is it you are afraid of? Punishment? Being deceived? Abandonment? Abuse? Rejection? Failure? Heights?

You can talk to all the spiritual leaders you want to. Listen to the best radio programs. Watch some serious Shekinah Glory evangelist on t.v. But if you don't just shut your mouth, quiet your racing mind, be still for a little while and LISTEN for the voice of the Almighty God, then you have no love in you at all. Because the only way to know love, is through HIM.

Foolish Facebook

2010-12-11T18:21:00.000-08:00

Okay devil I have had enough. People need to get a whole story together before they begin to assume. People need to speak face to face and not text. People need to tell someone when something is bothering them instead of telling other people. People need to TALK IT OUT TO THEIR FACES.

One situation I know of for sure, was one I was faced with this morning. And someone pretty wise said to me that I needed to take care of it, because it was the only way that person would really understand what is going on. I am so glad I did, because it went so smoothly.

But as far as facebook goes, I have been seeing more and more people jumping down one another's throats. Or even worse, smearing their name publicly. Or posting their sermonettes online and then talking crap themselves. It is outright ridiculous. I am so tired of facebook wars that I could vomit.

People don't even communicate in person anymore because it is more convenient to type a few (often misconstrued) words online or phone, and think that will make up for human contact. Then when they ARE faced with humans they don't know how to talk or act.

Foolish Facebook. Shame on you. You are the devil.

Lord, give my people the strength to get away from these finger tip addictions. From the gossip and the slander. From the fear of communicating in person (or even on the phone). Deliver my people from shame and mis-communication. Deliver my family and me from the same. Lord, give your people the ability to speak YOUR word, to read and understand it. And help us dear Lord, to do that which we are called to, instead of those things which live inside our heads.

Confessions of a Grinch

2010-12-09T01:22:00.000-08:00

This morning God said to me,

"You are a beautiful flower daughter. A blossoming child. Be still and bloom where you are planted. Bigger things are coming."

I don't feel beautiful. I have been so down lately. No matter what happens. I seem to be numb to it all. I can't smile. I can't laugh for long. I am just not happy.

Seems as if every time I get to a point of climbing that mountain again, I get spiraled back downward. But God has been holding me up instead of allowing me to stay so down. Even if I still feel sad, he is holding me in a standing position. And that is what really matters.

Sometimes I want to hide. Sometimes I want to go back to where and who I used to be. I haven't seen a true happy moment for such a very long time and the holidays are so hard for me.... especially Christmas.

This is the first Christmas my daughter will not be with me. Nineteen Christmases. This would be the twentieth.

Christmas holds horrifying memories for me anyway. It doesn't bother me the way it used to, but all the pain I have been through lately has really taken a toll on me.

Selfish people wanting their own selfish ways instead of the common good for all has torn my entire family in half.

We shall overcome. We shall persevere. There are times I feel like giving up and turning back. I have to press forward. Even if sometimes it feels like it is in slow motion that I do.

A week ago or so I posted an update about that whirlwind incident. Standing in the eye of the storm seems so frightening. But the truth is, in the eye of a whirlwind, there is complete calm.

Now if you choose to run your own way, to the left or to the right, that whirlwind will suck you up and spit you out at seventy miles an hour. But if you stand completely still, and bloom in the middle of that storm, just think of the testimony after the tornado is gone.

"Wow!", they will say," Look at the beautiful flower still standing after all that devastation. The only reason I believe it was there before the storm, and is the same one, is because I watched the storm rage all around it, and then just lift up: never touching the bloom."

Think about that dear Princesses. Sometimes it is extremely hard to smile in the middle of a nightmare. Sometimes our smile seems fake and forced. But the truth of the matter is, so long as you are trying. So long as you never surrender to the enemy. So long as you never lie down and wave that white flag, eventually you will be transplanted on top of that mountain where you can be the beautiful blossom once more.

In a Blink of the Eye

2010-11-28T15:03:00.000-08:00

About a year ago I was driving down Rt. 58 to take my nephew for a check up at the doctor's. It had been snowing earlier in the week, but the roads were clear, except for some salt they'd placed in preparation for the next snow storm. I was hurrying along because I didn't want to be late for his appointment, and had decided not to take any of the girls with me because I didn't want to take the chance of running into bad weather with a car full of youngsters.

My mind raced with all sorts of thoughts, including the sadness of circumstances which seemed to have taken over my existence.

I kept telling the Lord that I gave Him permission to be in complete control of my life, was thanking Him for all He does. I heard Him say He was in control, and I kept talking to Him about how good it was to realize that I was NOT the one in charge. I made a bold statement of faith that day, and I suppose by what happened next, was expected to back it up with action.

I looked away from the road for but a moment. The blink of an eye: and in that blink my car began to fish-tail on DRY PAVEMENT... at forty-five miles per hour.

The car spun to the right, and I was almost over a cliff. Then to the left, and I nearly hit twenty feet of rock on the side of the mountain. It spun back and forth, doing several three-sixties, and half a dozen near misses with the cliff and the rocks.

"JESUS! JESUS! JESUS! JESUS!"

One second I was frantically scanning east (checking for traffic no less), and the next second I was facing west, absolutely amazed that no cars were coming from either way. All the while I screamed for the Lord to help me.

It was as if a tornado had come and was sucking me up into its eye.

My foot stomped the brakes so tight that I burnt rubber on the road in horrible swerving spirals, could smell the char-broiled tires... thinking at the same time that I couldn't be responsible for allowing harm to come to my nephew.

And just like that it was over.

The car came to a screeching HALT in the proper lane, facing the direction of the doctor's office.

JUST...LIKE...THAT...

I had a death grip on that steering wheel. My knuckles were white as the threatening snow. And my heart was pounding so violently I was sure I could hear it. My knees were knocking and my teeth were chattering.

"I told you I am still in control.", the Lord said.

"You didn't have to spin me in circles down the highway to prove it to me LORD."

The crazy thing is, not one single human being saw what had just happened. And even crazier than that, my nephew had been sound asleep and never WOKE UP until the car came to a complete stop.

"Aunt Jae?" I heard his little voice from the backseat.

I saw him rub his eyes in the rear view mirror. How could a kid so full of energy and opinion SLEEP through an ordeal so serious, unless there were angels in the backseat holding him?

I pulled over at the next open lot until I could gather up strength and then drove on to the appointment, the car acting kind of funny, and still smelling of burnt tire.

When I drove back toward home I searched and searched for tire marks. Not a single trace on the road. No evidence that it had ever happened, except that my brakes began to make a funny noise.

For days afterward, I was dizzy and had visions of being inside a whirlwind. It sounded like a train ripping through the side of a bridge... loud metal tearing in half... as if a tornado had literally torn my life apart. I couldn't think straight. Some would say I was suffering from post traumatic stress, but I say it was a spiritual awakening.

It took about three days for me to realize spinning around on top of a dangerous mountain, and not a scratch on us...was one of the wildest, coolest things that ever happened to me.

I hadn't thought about that scene until today when something threw me back into the eye of that same tornado. I found something that all but broke my heart.

What I saw shocked my husband, me and my three youngest children half to death. It frightened me. And when I returned home after ranting and crying and absolutely asking

"WHY GOD? WHY?"

I saw that whirlwind whipping in circles.

It was layers deep around me, and I heard that same screeching metal sound like the side of a steel barn being split down the middle. I stood inside the storm with my hands thrown up in the air just feeling so stupid. As if everything I have done to protect and raise this family has been for nothing. That storm left me helpless and alone.

But inside the eye of the storm God's hand reached out to me. He scooped me up out of my storm and held me. He didn't just gently touch me from above in the Spirit...he reached down and grabbed me up out of my hurt.

I was not the only one He took out of that earth-shaking twister.

He also plucked up my daughter, my son, my husband, and my other children.

Then my brother, and his wife and their three children.

My sister and her family.

My mom, my step-dad and my uncle...

My daughter-in-law, my "adopted" child, and then even my sister's neighbor.

He REMOVED US from harm's way and set us safely down on the outside of the storm.

And as I observed the storm from the outside, instead of it going on all around me, I heard a puff of His breath..and it blew away just like a dandelion's seeds on a windy day.

Absolutely amazing.

The trials I have faced over the last few years have been so empowering. They have given me great strength and insight. And they have made me appreciate the Lord all the more. I have drawn near unto Him due to the obstacles I am constantly sprinting over.

The most wonderful part about all the horrifying events which take place ALL AROUND ME is that it isn't ME... it is just ALL AROUND me. Thank You Lord for the faith to stand in the eye of the tornado so regularly and not try to fight my own way out. You come and rescue me every time, and make another story for me to tell.

Fight the Good Fight and Win

2010-11-20T05:22:00.001-08:00

Do you ever just wake UP worrying? In the middle of the night, even? Last night was one of those nights. I woke up, and could not go back to sleep. There is so much going on in my life, that I bust my behind all day long from about seven a.m. until about eight p.m. Then I pass out face down in my bed early, and wake up in the middle of the night. So what else is there to do at three o'clock in the morning but think?

Usually I wake because of a disturbing dream or a sound, and sometimes its almost as if someone is waking me up. Trying to talk to me. Sometimes its God who wakes me, and sometimes it is the devil...

Sometimes I feel a presence in my home that is not of God. Those are spirits. Those which cause division, chaos, confusion, aggravation, anger, temptation, and other more serious offenses.

Sometimes the presence is so strong, I can feel its large being behind me, following me around. As if he was assigned to me by the unseen forces which focus against me. Sometimes I turn around expecting my six foot four husband to be standing behind me, only to find there is no one (physically) there. Most of the time saying the name Jesus will cause it to flee. Sometimes it takes singing to the Lord. And SOMETIMES it is so strong that I have to start praying in the spirit and continue to do so for quite a while. Last night was one of THOSE nights. I should have expected to wake up from bad dreams when I knew what was trying to attack me before I ever went to bed.

Two hours after I fell into a fitful sleep (early) my husband woke me to tell me my step-dad was being rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. We all got in a circle and prayed, and I went on back to bed, after finding perhaps he only has pneumonia.

But you see, that is a prime example of what the enemy comes to do. Satan comes to steal, kill and destroy. The word of God warns us so. But he is so crafty, that he knows what works for you and me.

He stays up all night plotting against us. Seriously.

It doesn't matter what avenue he uses. Whether it be division, or chaos, sickness, or gossip... The point is, he comes. It doesn't say IF he comes, it says HE COMES. He waits until we have forgotten to pray up or read the word or worship and put on our armor, or when we are so exhausted and sick that we don't really have the strength to fight back and

KABLAAM!

We are hit with attack.

But the thing is, I was expecting it last night. And evidently my hubby was too. I laid there for a while, just tossing all these thoughts around. And then I went out to read the word. I had already been praying in the spirit earlier, and when I came in and told my husband what was going on, he said,
"Try doing some writing."
"But honey, there is nothing there right now and I don't want to frustrate myself further."
"Then ask the Lord to clear your mind of all that clutter."

I did, and evidently he prayed too (which is far more affective than praying alone) because it wasn't twenty minutes later and I was able to relax and go back to sleep.

Satan has been coming against me with my health (which causes a strain on everyone's emotions here), our finances, our children, our cars, stuff breaking down, etc. But every challenge, every hurdle we have to jump, only builds more strength within us. Are we going to allow these spirits to overtake our home when they come in, or are we going to take authority against them, and

CAST THEM OUT?!

Last night we chose to take authority. Stuff has BEEN happening. But it is an opportunity to exercise our faith, and to allow God to be who He is... THE LORD OF ALL.

So when adversity comes, and trust me it will, choose to take a stand Princesses. Take a stand against what the devil is trying to do to you and yours. Give him back a double dose of what he is giving you by speaking out God's word, singing and worshiping, praying warring angels to encamp about you and yours, thanking the Lord for all HE does and most important, makes sure you have a good offense.

It is the best defense.

If you put on your armor (Ephesians 6) before you do anything else in the mornings, and you pray up, asking the Lord what areas need the most prayer, and you read the word so its in you when you need good scripture to quote aloud; then your answers are already inside you. You don't have to go searching for them, you are equipped.

Most important of all these things, is to take a deep breath (honest, I am reminding myself here too), hold it in for a second, and release slowly. Command your flesh to go down in the name of Jesus Christ, and allow your spirit to guide you. It is given direction by the Holy Spirit, and if your heart is as pure as I know it IS, will never steer you wrong.

2010-11-16T19:16:00.000-08:00

I feel like falling on my knees and crying
until the rain stops.
Till the butterfly lands on your cheek
and whispers sweet words to tell you
that everything is going to be alright.
When you stand there in silence
and think no one hears you.
When you look up at the stars
and God's hand reaches out
and touches you
and close your eyes for a split second...
and you're dancing with Him
underneath your favorite tree
until the last leaf falls.
All these troubles
All the temptation in your life
tries to shield you
from really seeing God's plan for you.
He wraps His arms around you
and wipes every sad tear from your eyes.
When you feel you have no strength left,
but you keep pushing and pushing...
I sometimes feel as if
I am losing the people I care about the most.
Then I go back to that quiet place
under the tree
with every beautiful shade of fall color.

And He stands there with His hand stretched out,

saying,
"You are still a Princess to Me."

Stephanie R. Rankin

Stephanie is a 2010 graduate of East Davidson High School in Thomasville, NC. She is nineteen years old, and is an aspiring photographer. She has had her share of struggles, but continues to seek the face of God. She loves hiking, swimming, going to church, dancing, singing and ministering. She plans to pursue the career of veterinary medicine, but right now is enjoying the freedom of exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Forbidden Words

2010-11-15T20:59:00.000-08:00

What image do these two photos strike within your mind? To me, they speak volumes about my emotions today. No, I am not feeling two faced, or even like gossiping. In fact, I hate gossip, even if it does come in the form of "prayer requests" and "venting". If someone has nothing but bad to say about other people to you, then you HAVE GOT to know that they will speak ill of you as well...when you are not there to defend yourself. And any comment you make during listening to their ranting and raving, WILL be TWISTED...and repeated. Then you, the fellow who merely wanted to be a friend, look like the fool. Overwhelmed by guilt. Paranoid that the people that were talked about, have been told by the very one who talked about them that you partook in the gossip... and now everyone hates you. Dang, why do we fall for these traps?

Usually these things are not even premeditated. Some people just have a spirit of gossip on them. They don't realize they are hurting other people, and your opinion of those people. And if you say ANYTHING after the damage is done...you are looking as if you are defending yourself. Looking guilty. I HATE those sorts of situations.

These issues most often stem from jealousy and unforgiveness of the heart.

Do not be fooled into taking part in these sessions of hidden gossip. Do not give audience to wagging tongues. It will only come back to haunt you in the end...no matter what types of intentions you had in your heart. Certain ones have a habit of running on at the mouth, because they are unhappy...and it DOES NOT fare well in the end.

*PRINCESSES BEWARE!*

Do not allow yourselves to be caught up in such wickedness. You are royalty, and you are better than all that. Beloved, please heed my words. I warn you, God will not tolerate these behaviors. He will correct the wagging tongue. I promise you.

Matthew 12:34- ...For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.

Proverbs 10:8- The wise are glad to be instructed, but babbling fools fall flat on their faces.

Proverbs 14:3- A fool's proud talk becomes the rod that beats him, but the words of the wise keep them safe.

Proverbs 18:2- Fools have no interest in understanding; they only want to air their own opinions.

Proverbs 29:11- Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.

Proverbs 20:19- A gossip betrays confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much.

2 Corinthians 12:20- For I am afraid when I come I will not find you as I want you to be, and you may not find me as you want me to be. I fear that there may be discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, slander, gossip, arrogance and disorder.

There is proof that what I speak is truth. Don't fall into the trap. Walk away, and if they follow, ask them to please close their mouths. If THAT fails, tell a pastor, youth leader, parent, someone you can trust what is being said. Confront that person, and if that doesn't work, confront them in front of other Christians. It will be okay. God will protect you.

And if this has already happened or you are the gossiping party, and you have stumbled upon this blog, I am not judging you. I love you. Jesus loves you.

If you feel a tug at your heart right now, ask Jesus to forgive you and make things right. Ask Him for guidance, wisdom and discernment. And praise Him for correcting those He loves. He IS our Father.

I love you princesses and I pray you have a good week. Tomorrow we will FINALLY have a guest blogger. Yea! Her name is Stephanie Rankin, and she is a mighty warrior of God. I hope you like what she has to share. Be blessed!

J. S. Watt

Today is the Day

2010-11-12T07:22:00.000-08:00

Okay Princesses, today is "the" day. Get out your markers, if you haven't already, and GET TO WRITING THAT LOVE ON YOUR ARMS!

I know it might seem awkward to some, but it is a statement of love and encouragement...and THIS CHICK...is IN.

I just have to say, after writing that last post, I have not only had the privilege of being involved (tonight) in a box event to raise money for homeless at the church where I am youth pastor, but the other day I got to speak to a wonderful group of early college students.

We talked about not lying down and taking the crap the world has to offer anymore. About standing up and fighting back (in the biblical sense). About being who GOD intended us to be, fighters, evangelists, witnesses, missionaries in many fields (you don't always have to leave America by the way, every town needs Jesus).

Man, I just gotta say I loved every stinking second of it. I was so nervous, as I haven't done public speaking in a while, but wow. What a wonderful bunch of Christian youth. Just like the ones in our youth group.

I will try and post some pics of tonight's events online soon.

Everyone have a great day in the Lord Jesus Christ...and BEHAVE for crying out loud.

Jae

They Will Know Me by My Love

2010-10-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

I have made many mistakes in my walk with Christ. Especially with my own teenagers. Sometimes patience eludes me. Sometimes I forget where I came from. And I forget that my teens are facing the same troubles, the same pressures, on a much higher level than I did growing up. I am sorry guys. Forgive me. Please help me to be a better mother to you. I don't want you going down that same path of destruction I was on. Sometimes I forget to show you the same mercy and grace the Lord shows me. I am forever sorry for those times.

Parents have a hard time reaching their children these days. Children are shutting down from the real world, and living within a screen. It breaks my heart. Please children, hear the voice of someone who has been there. Done that.

Wearing those razor blades around your necks will not make a fashion statement. It will show the true pain behind your mask of, "Everything is okay with me."

Cutting yourself will not make the pain go away. I promise you that. I know, because it never helped me. All the pain I caused myself and others. It just made more guilt.

I did so many things, in the name of wanting to help people, that only made things so much worse in their lives. But God has given me a second chance. I am grateful. And that second chance (His name is Jesus) that He gave to me, He can give to anyone who wants to feel loved by a true father, parent, friend, Savior. I just had to say that today. He changed my life.

I LIVED at the bottom of the pit for so many years, looking up, feeling like every time it rained I was going to drown. Every time the leaves fell off the tree, I was frightened because the season of death was coming. Where life ceased, went to sleep, and so did my emotions. All I knew for so many years was pain and agony. All I knew was darkness and no hope of escape.

But Jesus took me away from that. He lifted me out of that hole I lived in and moved me to a much better place in my life. Where I could realize my parents DID love me. That my FATHER did love me. That I didn't need a man to prove I was worthy of love. I found myself in abusive situations over and again because I just wanted love so freaking bad. Jesus gave me that love I hungered for.

He gave me the courage to find my way out.

To chase my dreams of becoming a published writer. I may not have made a million dollars on my first book, but its IN PRINT! Not a failure...just STEP ONE.

I am not doing this anymore to see my name on books. I am doing it to see less names under suicide on the obituaries. Less untimely names on tombstones. And to see MORE NAMES in the Lamb's Book of Life.

Jesus helped me to realize that I am worthy. I am good enough. And now that my children are older, they are going through the same struggles I had.

Not sure if their father loves them.

Not sure if Mom loves them.

Not sure if they are okay, good enough.

I need to be there for them. And I intend to.

I am putting a stop right now to Satan's trap. In the name of Jesus Christ. I am taking back what the devil stole from my kids. From the children of others. You can't have these kids devil. They belong to someone much stronger than you. And if you try to take them away, HE will just show up at EXACTLY THE RIGHT TIME and snatch them back from you. So eat my dust devil. I am going out in the streets again, starting with the houses which hold MY OWN... AND I AM TAKING THEM BACK FOR THE KING.

I am starting by participating in an event I found on facebook.

It is an event where we can write LOVE on our arms between Friday November 12 @ midnight and November 13th 11:30 p.m. Join me in my efforts, for ourselves, and for the love of others. I love kids, teens, youth, young adults. I want to be there. I want to show my support. And I am going to. Because I know what it is to feel alone. To not belong. To feel unloved.

http://www.twloha.com/

This is the Day

2010-10-19T06:12:00.000-07:00

This is the day the Lord hath made.

I will rejoice and be glad in it.

Sidetracked

2010-10-15T06:03:00.000-07:00

Hear the voice of God. Do not listen to the voice of others. Do not listen to emotion. Do not allow the distractions of life to pull you away from His leading right now. Do not allow life to draw you away from Him. Do not allow others' lies to drag you away. You ARE a warrior. You DO hear His voice. It is not the voice of a Stranger you are hearing. His sheep know His voice. Be led of HIM.

For the Love of God

2010-10-06T02:09:00.000-07:00

Am I the only one who is sick and tired of the satire surrounding Christians and their form of worship?

I see so many people blaspheming MY God, and yet we are literally threatened with being sued if we open our mouths against those things which the one TRUE God speaks against.

When I look for pictures on google to include in my blogs, I run across many perverse and twisted people, photographs, and blogs. People who openly mock God and anything to do with Him. It is disgusting.

If only their blind eyes would be opened to see that there is peace, love, joy, and contentment in serving a God who actually brings you discipline, the world might not be so filled with hatred and stupidity.

I am declaring war today. Not sure yet what my strategies will be, but Satan, I am SICK and tired of your onslaughts. You twist the word of God to fit the needs of every sinful, fleshly desire, and I am NOT going to sit idly by and watch you do so.

Complacency is the worst religion of all.

Lord, thank You for reviving me,
and the fight IN me.
Thank You for opening THESE blind eyes to see,
there is no room for complacency.

'That' Time of Year

2010-10-04T06:52:00.000-07:00

Sound the trumpet...

Flaming arrows. Fiery darts. Evidence you've been marked. Those of you who know what I speak of, read on. Those of you who don't, ignore this passage.

It is that time of year.

You are not wrestling against flesh. Remember that.

Stop looking at the height of the flames surrounding you, and fight your way out of them.
Put on your whole armor. The helmet of Salvation. The breastplate of righteousness. The sword of the Spirit. The shield of faith. The belt of TRUTH. The shoes of the gospel of PEACE.

The level of attack is much greater this time of year. The TRUE enemy has no new tricks. Just stepped the old ones up a notch. It is a time of war against the enemy. Battle like most warriors have never seen. For some reason, it is much stronger now. Perhaps because the enemy has added many more soldiers to his fight. But we must remember, Jesus took them ALL out on the cross. The second he left that tomb, no, the SECOND HE LET THEM NAIL HIM TO THAT WOOD... the war was already won.

Pray. Without ceasing. Don't look at the humans coming against you. Look at the demonic forces whispering in their ears. Those who have eyes, let them see. Those who have ears, let them hear. Pray against those forces. Not the person.

Do not be frightened by supernatural occurrences. One of the enemy's greatest tactics is fear.

Even in the darkest hour, you are still His princess. Princesses don't lie down and take it. They stand up and fight the good fight. Do not run away from the enemy. Run TOWARD the fight.

Praise and worship the KING. This is your biggest defense. A good offense.

Wrap yourself in the word of God. Soak in His word. His presence.

Never forget who you are in Christ. You are more than a conqueror.

My Princesses:

2010-09-28T05:45:00.000-07:00

Years of Pain: Pain or Gain?!

2010-09-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

So many years after the parent who has to run for the safety of their children actually RUN...the children are still hurting.

Just when you think the pain is over...

Everyone else in the offender's life is taken care of, and their "new" families are "perfect", and they live a life that is so comfortable. They don't know the pain they have caused. They have no clue... do they even care?

Jesus comes in those times. Because as much as I would love to say God just waves a magick wand and its all okay once you get away from the abuse... years later it can still come back in other forms.

Like a parent suddenly wanting to be a part of their kids' lives after all those years. And pretending to be the victim, when actually they were the perpetrator.

A father wanting to be an influence in his child's life when years ago he chose bottle and money over same child.

Family, who was stuck in the middle of it all... making bad decisions because they can't take the hurt anymore.

Or a child, after all you have done to protect and help in their healing, spits in your face. AGAIN.

And you, the one who gave up your entire LIFE, to make a difference, are still struggling with the repercussions of the decisions and hurt of others.

There is still hope. Even though sometimes the pain goes on throughout your life. Jesus can still heal each hurt, as it comes, one step at a time.

You cannot let the pain consume you anymore. You cannot hide in the corner and lick your wounds any longer. And you cannot let their continuing aggravation in your life, be that, anymore.

Only the Lord can heal those hurts. And He is faithful. Even when it seems as if the circumstances are never going to stop. As if you are going to spend your entire life dealing with what someone else has done to you, or to your children/spouse.

The word of God speaks of vindicating His children. Of setting them free and healing their hurts. There is scripture in the Bible to help you through just about every problem you could face. You just have to dig, search, pray, walk through that valley. Hold on. And don't allow others to bring you down to their level any longer.

Truthfully, if we turn our worst pain over to Him, He will use it to our benefit, and to the benefit of others. Like in my case, all the hurts I had to raise my kids through because of circumstances that we did not cause, but for years blamed ourselves. I still blame myself sometimes. But the truth is, there are more hurting children coming. They will benefit from our years of experience. God will handle our grown children. He will take care of them. Now we have to move on. We have to stop looking at the people who caused our years of woe and sorrow... we need to place all our focus on defeating the enemy, Satan through Jesus Christ. Keep our eyes on Him.

Do unto others as you would HAVE them do unto you.

I would have them to forgive me if I were the perpetrator, instead of the victim. And maybe Jesus doesn't any longer see what the perpetrator did to your child. Maybe He sees the hurt THEY went through which led them to the place where they hurt you or your loved one. Maybe He wants to use you to help heal THEM? Not always, but sometimes.

Let go of your hurt. Let go of your past. Let go, and be free from those chains around your wrists and ankles...BE FREE in the name of Jesus Christ.

Pic of Our Praying Mantis on my Tin Angel

2010-09-07T06:05:00.001-07:00

Everything that Hath Breath Praise the Lord

2010-09-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

Sunday morning I was standing in the back of the church place. at the campground. In came two little boys with a mantis of the sort in the photo above. It was sitting on the boy's arm. He said they always flock to him. I laughed and told him how butterflies flock to me. How these are signs and wonders from the Lord to show us HE LOVES US! To show us we need to praise Him.

I also told him how there has been a green praying mantis on my front porch for about a month just praying over our home. Their little mouths dropped open.

All of a sudden the mantis began to dance to the praise and worship music. Instead of trying to run, it swayed back and forth to THE BEAT OF THE MUSIC: and when I alerted the boys to this fact, they were amazed. We stood and watched and laughed at the goodness of God's love. He must have been a "praising" mantis.

I didn't remember this until this morning when Brittany came to tell me a story. She and her friend Micah were bored out of their minds, so Micah's mom said to go take some pictures. Brittany decided to go to the tracks where the replica train runs at the campground and tied herself round and round with a yellow rope...and laid down on the tracks!

Micah asked her where in the world she got that from. She said she just kept thinking about Stuart Little in the movie where he tied himself with his tail and laid down on the track. to make his big brother laugh. It was hilarious!

But then she told me something else. As Micah walked away from her, the butterfly God always sends to Brittany FLEW INTO BRITT'S MOUTH! Right up to her and flew at her open mouth... Like God was trying to anoint her lips or something. Another miracle.

It brought to my mind that scripture about the angel who cleansed the prophet's lips with coal. To prepare him for going out into the world. And then the prophet stood up when God asked, "Who will go for me?"

He said, "Here am I Lord. Send me."

In my sad times, God brings healing through the oddest of ways. Thanks Abba. You are God.

Smiling Through the Pain

2010-09-03T06:31:00.001-07:00

This is me, smiling even though I was fifty feet in the air. One of my biggest fears used to be heights. I have conquered this fear through my boldness in Christ. And I will continue to conquer all the circumstances in my life. No one can stop what the Lord has planned. And I want you too, dear princesses, to listen to that inner shout. Conquer your fears, all of them, through Jesus Christ. I will not stop, ever, until the day I die.

Dealing With Hurt

2010-09-02T17:10:00.000-07:00

I don't want to cry.
But I almost feel as if
I have to shed these tears
or I will explode...
The hurt never seems to go away.
Just keeps returning to me like a recurring nightmare.
All the ones who hurt me in the past.
A second generation of hurters now.
I used to drink to kill the pain.
Now all I can do is pray.
I used to cut.
I used to sleep with someone new...
Now dear Jesus, I can only turn to You.
I hate this pain.
Inside my head is nothing but clouds and rain.
I want to run away...
but instead I sit here
quiet
still
alone
and I cry out to You.
What will You do?
When will this be over?
When will the pain go away?
Will it be a year
a month
a week
a day?
Oh God I am dying inside.
I have cried myself blind.
I want to hate
but I have to forgive
just one more time...

J. S. Watt

I Am Still A Princess

Mimi's Baby Girl

Unforgiveness

Blog Entry 101!

Changes

Waa Me

Life Vs. Choice

Signs and Wonders and Spring Fever

Satan, You Are Defeated

I am so tired of Satan and his lies. People sugar coat and deceive and say it is their right to do *fill in the blank*.

The Lord spoke to me this morning in my paranoia. He said, "Do not allow the devil to make you believe you are defeated. You ARE NOT."

* I am praying more and more over that Morning Center.*

Sometimes in our exhaustion we allow the devil to rattle our faith. But in the end he is defeated. We all know where he is going when this is all over. And as far as I am concerned, he will not have me or my family. Try as he might, I will not go down...without a fight.

I love You Jesus. YOU are the Lord of all. Not HIM.

Luke 10:19King James Version (KJV) 19Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Residue: or Cindersoot versus Cinderella

Untitled (A Confession of Love)

More for Monday

A REAL Abortion Alternative: The Morning Center

Living my Dreams

My Book on Kindle

New Beginnings in the New Year

L.O.L. or The Faith of A Child

Shawn McDonald and the Price of Tea in China?

Today is a New Day (Or Ramblings of a Coffee Jacked Mama)

Me and Me Again

Break Your Heart

Amazing GOD

Taken From Rabbi Yechiel Eckstein

Help Me Jesus

Fear Not my Faithful

A Vision of Hope and Valor

God’s Accusation Against the Wicked

Still Not Sure

Writing with a Fury!

Beauties

Absolute Sacrifice

This is Why My Heart's Been Weeping

All Which is Watered Shall Grow

Only in Him are we OVER IT

Maybe One Day

Today I am Re-learning Who I Am...

When Feeling not so Pretty

New Worship Song, I Am Persuaded

A Sweet Surprise

After the Rain Comes Much Sunshine

Waiting

Sometimes, Again

Husbands, Children and God

An Accident and a Miracle

Some People Never Change

Little Blessings, Big Meanings

Changes

Amazing Faith I Follow

The Lord is My Shepherd

Cover Makeover

At Long Last

Pearls Before Swine

The Consequence is the Prize

I Miss you Daddy

The Tide Floweth Toward Me

Signs From God

Oil

Jasmine

Day Ten

Nine

Eight is Beyond Great!

On the Seventh Day, He Rested

Five and Six

Three and Four

Second

New Journey

The Devil Never Sleeps *OR* Alone Time With Jesus

Seriously?

*Sighs*

Oh Mondays.

For the Young and Young at Heart

My True New Year's Resolution...

Turning Darkness into Light

Hate and What God Says

I am so tired of Satan and his lies. People sugar coat and deceive and say it is their right to do fill in the blank.

Luke 10:19King James Version (KJV) ¹⁹Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

The Devil Never Sleeps OR Alone Time With Jesus

Sighs