My household has watched the Olympics on a semi-regular basis these past few weeks. We have been treated to victory, defeat, and a fair share of surprises and history making moments.

We've also seen some major controversies unfold. Can anyone say underage gymnasts? Okay, okay, so I don't know for sure, at this point, no one but these girls and their families (and the Chinese government) truly knows the truth. However, I strongly suspect based on some of the online documentation available that these talented young women (girls) are not the legal competing ages.

Let's for a moment say that they have indeed been dishonest about their ages. What does that do to these precious girls? They are talented, lovely gymnasts. Obviously, very, very good at what they do. But is it worth it to lie to win the gold? How will this influence them years down the road when they read about the doubt that plagued their victories. Will they feel guilt, shame, grief, over the cover up?

I can't speak for them, but I know how I've felt when I've been dishonest. I can't imagine what it would be like to lie before the whole world. I do know, however, how it feels to lie before my God. Not good. Not good at all. Secret sin always comes back to bite us in the you-know-what? You know what I mean? Ouch!

Sadly, it's not just the olympic athletes who are lying about who they are, many of us refuse to reveal the "real deal" to others. In our world it is acceptable on many levels to do whatever it takes to "win." So what if you tell a few little lies to reach the top or win the prize?

For us, as Christians, we are supposed be set a part from the world. We are to follow our Lord and King's example. Jesus was completely honest and open in His dealings. God cannot lie. Our arch foe, the devil, is known as the father of lies. Personally, I don't want to be labeled a liar.

Remember back in grade school when someone was caught lying. The ear-grating sing/song chorus would ring out across the playground or through the classroom: "Liar liar pants on fire ... !" I hated to be the one that song was directed toward.

Just this evening, my daughter was watching a taped Hanna Montanna concert. She said, out of the blue, "I'm going to tell everyone at school that I saw Miley in concert."

My response: "Why would you do that? It's not true?"

"Well, maybe I'll just tell em that I sat way up high and didn't see much."

Say what little girl? As if that additional fib would somehow make the lie more digestible.

I probed further to find out why this was important to her. Here's the big reason ...

"I want to be popular. The other kids will think I'm cool."

Oh, baby, I wanted to cry. Instead, I reminded her that she was enough just as she is. She doesn't need to lie to be accepted. In fact, I pointed out, lies always end up backfiring somehow, someway. Not to mention, gaining friends this way isn't a way to find true ones. We then discussed several situations where being dishonest, in order to be popular, caused more heartache. I pray that our talk helped.

Friends, it's so very important that we set an example to our kids and others reminding them that TRUTH is the foundation we must stand on. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He alone is the foundation to a "winning life." Only through Him can we gain the greatest reward of all: Forgiveness of sins and an everlasting eternity in with our Forgiver. All other prizes and awards will fade away.

As we start our week, let us remember to keep our eyes focussed on the Truth, Jesus Christ. Unlike popularity, worldly acclaim, and gold medals, His love is forever, and that's a long, long time.

Helloooooo everyone! It's been way too long since I've written. I have a good reason, though. Really! I do.

I had a speaking engagement at a women's retreat this past weekend. What a wonderful time! God showed up in a big way. He always seems to do that where two or more are gathered in His Name. Maybe you've noticed that, too.

I've got so much on my mind. By the way, this is my more "personal" blog. I try to share spiritual encouragments and messages, but, if that is what you are looking for, please visit: http://www.princesswarriorsreignreal.blogspot.com/ Here you will find encouraging words to help you on your journey as a Princess Warrior for Christ. Yes, that blog is specifically for women. Although, men can certainly gain insight by reading.

Anyway, this is going to be a major rambling post. Phew!

Tomorrow, my son has his knee surgery. He will be "asleep" for about three hours. I am praying that God will perfectly orchestrate the surgeon's hands and all others involved will be annointed by His Spirit. This is my son's very first major surgery. He had his toncils out years ago and that's about it.

I've been slightly obsessed with the good ole' Olympics. I'm sure most of you can relate. I've been (I hate to admit) kind of caught up in the whole Chinese age scandal. It appears that there is some very compelling evidence that demonstrates the illegal age of some of the gymnasts. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out. Very sad for the young girls if they are being asked (told) to lie about their ages. This won't be the first time that a chinese athlete has done this. I believe they should lose their medals. Okay, enough of that.

Retreat. Olympics. Surgery. What else?

The retreat went fantastic. The women were absolute jewels. So many of them have overcome major bondages and addictions in their lives. It's so exciting to see how God is moving and changing these princess warriors from glory to glory. I am honored that He uses me to share His goodness and grace. It still stuns me, at times, that today I work for the Lord. Looking at my past, you'd expect to see me working on the "other side of the tracks" so to speak. But God works miracles and sets captives free. Amen!

Okay, deep breath. Can you sense that I'm a bit rattled and rushed?

One thing that was common for a number of the retreat participants was busyness. These ladies, like so many of us, feel overly worked, too busy, and see that they need to slow down and simply "be" with God. Can you relate? I know I can.

On Saturday night, I was awakened by what I thought was an atomic bomb. We were up in the Washington mountains at a camp retreat center nestled in a lush forest surrounding a lake. God's handiwork  was divine. Back to the "big bang." The sound I heard was thunder. From my lodge's window I was treated to an awesome display of God's power. Without the annoying street lights, the sky lit up brighter than a Fourth of July fireworks display. Lightening zigzagged across the night sky.

I have to admit I was more than a little awed by this magnificent display of God's power revealed through nature. Wow! A sort of fear and reverance gripped my soul as I grasped once again just how small and insignificant we truly are in comparison to our mightly King and His creation. I guess you could say I was "struck still." I was captivated by His glory unable to do anything but watch.

Listening to the women and seeing God in action reminded me just how important it is to slow down and rest in His presence. We can only stay in the running mode for so long before we collapse under the pressures of daily life. It's like trying to drive a car on fumes. At some point, you have to pull over and fuel up.

Don't you love how God can speak so clearly when you listen? I'm going to make every effort to slow my personal pace down to a dull roar rather than a hurricane of activity. How about you? Do you need to recomit to simply being in God's presence. If so, join me in leaving busyness behind.

After all, I've heard it said that busy is:

B: Being

U: Under

S: Satan's

Y: Yoke

No thank you! I'm going for the God with God.

God bless you till next time.

Wow! What a busy couple of weeks. I'm finally back to writing. I'm working on several book proposals, have an upcoming speaking event in Seattle, and have been working a lot. But ... I had the opportunity to go to the Oregon Coast this weekend. What a grand time we had. My daughter and her friend stayed in the surf for hours riding waves on their "boogie boards."  I sat in my chair and tried to keep the wind from blowing me down the beach. Seriously, it was gusting, but the sun was up and shinging brightly.

The beach always gives me a major reminder of God's awesome power and incredible creativity. Just watching the ocean and the way the water shimmers under the sun's gentle caress brings such a sense of comfort and awe. I'm in awe of my Creator. It feels good to getaway from the daily rat race to soak in His glorious creation.

Now it's time to take that sense of awe back to work and the daily grind. There's so many people that need to feel God's light in their lives. They need a gentle caress from a God who cherishes His people, a God of second chances, a God who holds our future in His hands ...

Consider the following story of God's great light in the darkness:

A LIGHT NAMED AL On the morning of September 11, Jeannie Braca switched on the television to check the weather report, only to hear that a plane had just hit the World Trade Center. Jeannie’s husband, Al, worked as a corporate bond trader for Cantor Fitzgerald. His office was on the 105th floor of Tower One.

Al had survived the World Trade Center bombing in 1993 and had even helped a woman with asthma escape from the building. Jeannie knew that Al would do the same thing this time, “I knew he would stop to help and minister to people,” she said, “but I never thought for a minute that he wouldn’t be coming home!”

A week later, like so many others who were in that building, Al’s body was found in the rubble. Al’s wife, Jeannie, and his son Christopher were devastated! Then the reports began to trickle in from friends and acquaintances.

Some people on the 105th floor had made a last call or sent a final e-mail to loved ones saying that a man was leading people in prayer. A few referred to Al by name. Al’s family learned that Al had indeed been ministering to people during the attack! When Al realized that they were all trapped in the building and would not be able to escape, Al shared the gospel with a group of 50 co-workers and led them in prayer.

This news came as no surprise to Al’s wife, Jeannie. For years, she and Al had been praying for the salvation of these men and women. According to Jeannie, Al hated his job and couldn’t stand the environment. It was a world so out of touch with his Christian values, but he wouldn’t quit. Al was convinced that God wanted him to stay there, to be a light in the darkness, and although Al would not have put it this way, to be a hero! Al was not ashamed of Christ and Christ’s words…and he paid the price of taking up his cross daily.

Al shared his faith with his co-workers….many of whom sarcastically nicknamed him “The Rev.” And on that fateful day…on September 11, in the midst of the chaos, Al’s co-workers looked to him—-and Al delivered!

At the same time, Al too tried to get a phone call through to his family. He asked an MCI operator to contact his family. “Tell them that I love them,” he said. It took the operator more than a month to reach the Bracas, but the message brought them much-needed comfort. “The last thing my dad did involved the two things most important to him—God and his family,” his son Christopher told a writer for Focus on The Family. “He loved to lead people to Christ. That takes away a lot of the hurt and the pain.” SOURCE: compiled by Kenneth Sauer from "A Light in the Darkness" by Christin Ditchfield. Focus on the Family Magazine, September 2002.

So, friends, as our week begins, let us shine brightly with God's grace and love.

The other evening, I had an argument with a friend. This particular friend is my only close friend that does not have a relationship with Christ, which makes things interesting -- always.

In addition to our little disagreement, I was feeling down about myself as a parent and my kids as, well, as kids. Parenting is no easy task. Anyone who says it is, well, they're lying. At some point, your child or children will challenge and stretch you in ways you never quite expected. HOWEVER, (that's a big however) they are also gifts from God.

So ... back to my story. I'm in the car, in the driveway, in front of my house, just sitting. Anyone ever done that? You know, sit and stew in the car rather than entering the house where all those people (your family) are waiting for you.

I do that frequently when I'm upset. I figure it's better to work it out in the driveway instead of dragging it inside and dragging everyone else down.

My daughter realizes that I'm in the car. She comes tearing out of the house and proceeds to increase my misery by arguing and badgering me. Ahhhh. She, too, ends up more angry and back in the house. That's when the tears come, at first a trickle and than a fierce waterfall.

I cry, sob, sob, cry, and say some not-so-kind words to myself about me.

Thankfully, one sane message nudges the corner of my raging thoughts: Ask God for help. The enemy is totally dumping on you.

You know that feeling. You know you need to pray, yet, you're still in a tantrum mode and refuse to do what you know will help. Thankfully, I didn't hold out very long. All I could manage was:

"Jesus, help me."

I cannot deny that once again, He came to my rescue. Yep. Selfish me. He interrupted my pity party in a surprising, but very personal way.

First, scriptures of His love (this is why memorizing His Word is so important) flooded my mind, clearing out the old icky, negative thoughts with a thorough sweep. Then, to top it off (Yes, it gets even better) my ten-year-old daughter returns (she's a brave one) and hands me a little something she created while I was crying.

I look down and cry some more. This time in grattitude for how God speaks to me in such simple yet profound ways if I will listen.

I'm now holding a little hand-painted heart with a cross glued to it. There it is. A heart and cross. Jesus loves me. Wow. Wow. Wow.

I was able to thank God for His personal message. Hug my daughter and get out of my car. The weekend has only gotten better.

Yes, friends, God speaks. Do you hear Him? I'd love to hear how He speaks to you. Please send a comment and tell about a time that God delivered a message to you. Hearing about His creative methods is always heart-touching and faith-boosting. So, what are you waiting for?

Lord,

You are so incredibly awesome. You know just what to say and how to say it. When we are open to You, You make Yourself known to us. After all, Your Word tells us that. It's true. Thank you for Your love that knows no bounds. For you forgiveness that covers my sin. I can't imagine my life without You. Help all Your children stay in tune to Your voice. May we be open to Your direction day or night. Let us trust in You. In Your Name we pray, Jesus. Amen.

PS. For those of you that have shown interest in my writing journey. My wonderful literary agent, Les Stobbe, was recently awarded a very special award in the publishing community. He received the the R.A. Torrey Award for "Outstanding Service as a Publishing Pioneer." I'm so thankful that God saw fit to let me work with Les. What an amazing man with a heart to spread God's Word through Christian publications. Congratulations, Les! You're an inspiration.

Have you been watching the news? Reading the paper? If so, you're sure to have noticed that our nation is in some financial trouble -- big time trouble.

I just read an article on the Internet featuring a certain government official assuring us (the people) that our nation's financial status will remain stable through these tough times. Hum ... ?

My grandmother lived throught the Great Depression and has shared some incredible stories about those difficult times and today individuals believe that we are headed toward another depression.

Now that we are so dependent on loans, credit, and technology, we are in an increasingly vulnerable state. Many authories have warned that we can no longer depend on Social Security for our future income, yet, in these days of high dept and low savings, many inviduals and families will be totally without support should our current system "crash."

I'm sorry. I'm not trying to be all doom and gloom, but reading these stories has once again reminded me that we can only depend on one thing alone: Jesus Christ. Our future in Him is secure.

The Bible clearly instructs us to make wise choices regarding financies and eliminating dept. God's Word also implores us to focus on those things that can be stored up in Heaven. In other words, we need to be depositing huge doses of love-driven deeds into our heavenly bank accounts. For this is a system that will never need "bailing out." It will always be. Our greatest rewards will be realized in Heaven, not here on earth.

Please, don't get me wrong. I'm not saying the way to Heaven is by good deeds, for we could never DO enough to get there. It's our personal relationship with Christ that secures our future and gives us a permanent Source of Hope. Loving Him and experiencing His love for us is what drives us to serve others with love.

I believe in the days ahead, as prices continue to sky-rocket and more people are desperate for something, anything to lift them out  of despair, we as believers will have a unique opportunity to share where (with whom) our faith and future rests.

Also, it is important for us to remember -- no matter how much or how little we own/have in this age -- will not matter in the next.

I know that I've had some major financial concerns of my own and must continually remind myself that God has it all in control. He will provide. I have to continually be reminded: Stuff does not equal happiness. Nope. It's all temporary.

For as Paul so clearly reminds us, we can choose to be content in whatever situation we might find ourselves ... or not. In plenty or with little, God rules and reigns, and our futures remain safe in Him.

Let us remember, friends, in times of darkness we are to be the lights on the hill. Let us continue to shine God's goodness and grace for all to see. For in Him alone can we trust.

Dear Lord,

So many people are losing their homes, their businessess, and their livelihoods. They're scared and unsure of where their next meal will come from. More and more men and women, even families, are living out of their cars and in shelters.

We as a nation bought into the age-old lie that more is better. We have spent money we didn't have to spend. We have withheld money that is rightfully Yours. We have fallen short of Your best.

Thankfully, Your Word tells us that You never leave or forsake Your children. Let us confess our sins and turn our financial futures over to You. We can trust that You will care and provide for us. Help us understand that it is not about what we "have" in this world but who we know -- You. It's all about You, Jesus. Give us courage and passion to reach out to others struggling during these difficult times. Help us be lights in a dark world. If we're struggling give us the courage we need to seek help.

Thank you for saving and setting us free. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen.

I just entered a long post only to have it vanish in cyberland during the saving process. Ahhhhh.... very annoying. I'm going to post a little story I stumbled upon and will add my entry (thank goodness i printed it while it was taking forever to save) tomorrow. So watch for the newest post on Financial Failures and Fiascos: USA.

In the meantime:

"Christ brought to the world a new conception of royalty. He rules by love and not by force. That, as he expressly said, is the difference between His kingdom and the kingdoms of the world."

Before the birth of Christ, no royalty would ever show their humility. That would be too human, too common. Kings have parades & entourages to draw the focus toward them.
When Queen Elizabeth last visited America, she brought with her the following items
• 4000 pounds of luggage – 4 outfits for everyday she was in America
• 40 pints of plasma
• Her own hairdresser
• Two valets
• An official photographer
• Two personal secretaries
• THE COST OF HER TRIP TO AMERICA WAS 20 MILLION DOLLARS
In meek contrast, God’s visit to earth took place in an animal stable, no attendants were present, there was no place for the baby to lay down except in a feeding trough known as a manger. In fact, the event, which divided history and our calendars, went by unnoticed except for a few shepherds who came by for a visit.

Can anyone say, excess?

Life is life ... meaning sometimes it is just difficult for a number of so-called "little" reasons. Right now, I feel deep in the trenches of blah. Nothing appears to be working out right. I am over-worked, over-burdened, over-whelmed, and under-filled -- with the Spirit that is.

I say "nothing appears" because, as the above painting so clearly demonstrates, there is always something going on in the spiritual realm. God works behind the scenes even when we feel like nothing right is happening in our world. In fact, I remember a book titled God Works the Night Shift. How appropriate that sounds in this moment.

It can be embarrassing (yes, pride gets in the way) to admit, as a Christian, when you just feel plain unhappy and unmotivated. After all, we have every reason to be overflowing with good cheer. Our future destiny is more than enough to get excited about every day, not to mention, we are redeemed and set free in the now. Yet we are still humans wrought with those frustrating emotions and sinful natures.

Feelings come. They roll over us like a gentle surf, or a tidal wave of despair. Our feelings may not always be truth-based, but we surely experience them and are affected by their, at times, furious velocity.

I guess that I've clearly established I'm down in the dumps. I spend my daily work-hours encouraging, motivating, and helping others. I work in a social work position where I case manage numerous clients. I also have a ministry that involves helping women discover who they are and who they can become in Christ, so I spend quite a bit of energy giving and listening to other people's challenges.

In order to give effectively, we have to be running on full ... full spiritual strength that is. Obviously, none of us can claim to be the Energizer Bunny. Therefore, like a car, we need refueling -- often. Timely tune ups keep our vehicles in shape; specific spiritual practices keep us up and running efficiently.

The solution:

Yep, time to get in the solution and out of the problem.

The solution involves action. Isn't it ironic when we feel the most immobilized is when we need to act?

So often, we start out feeling deprived of something, then we become discouraged, then we get depressed, and, finally, we end up in a state of despair. Catching this process before it becomes a full-fledged destructive cycle is key. Unfortunately, this time, I've allowed myself to reach the depression stage.

So, what can we do? What can I do?

1. Pray -- Sadly, for me, when I get really down, I find myself stuck in my own head. You know; it's where you try to figure it all out yourself and end up, well, stuck in your head. Just talking to God and awknowledging that you can't handle "this" on your own is a huge first step. I can't. God can.

2. Reach out -- Alone with negative thinking and painful circumstances in not a safe place to be. It allows the enemy to creep in and begin his devious assault. Reaching out to others and sharing our frustrations and concerns is a huge God-ordained pain- reliever. It is not good for man to be alone. God said so. He talks about when two or three or gathered we find strength. Alone with our head-talk is not healthy, nor is it productive. Get out. Get help.

3. Get out the road map -- the Bible. Getting in God's Word once again helps us get our thinking redirected to right road. It's so easy to get lost in our feelings that we can forget God's Truth -- His plan for successful living in a fallen world. Here we find the "bread" for our souls, the food we need to sustain us. Hopefully, the map will direct us to worship, to give thanks, to confess, and to take our raging thoughts captive.

These simple action steps don't always equal a magical cure, but they always help me improve on some level. Often times, I discover an immediate cure ... the spiritual cure to my dilemnas. When it is hardest to do these things, is when I need them the most.

Wow! Just reviewing the basics has already helped my thinking. Amazing how that works. I've told you, whoever you are, and God that I can't do this alone. Now I can continue to pray and get out my map so I can get back on track where I belong.

Friends, no matter what you've done, said, or thought yesterday, today is fresh. It's a new beginning. No matter what our feelings tell us, God still rules and reigns. He is our Rock. Let us cling to Him now and always.

If you'd like, please join me in praying the following prayer.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I need to take my own advice and pray right now. I've been negative and even feeling depressed about life. I've felt deprived of many things and have felt sorry for myself, yet I've refused to make the changes that will help me move forward. I've listened to the lies of the enemy and been a slave to my emotions instead of following your plan and staying on your path. I commit to feasting on Your Word and asking for help. I am grateful for Your love, grace, and truth. Please help me be all you have created me to be. I love you, Lord. I need you. Thank you for never leaving or forsaking me. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

It's the day that we celebrate our freedom as Americans. Actually, it's a day late. Sorry ...

I've been busy beyond belief. I spent yesterday with my daughter and her friends (my son had other plans) at Blue Lake Park. Music. Food. People. Fireworks. A great day of celebration.

Except... we were all sadly reminded just how temporary this celebration is. A teenage boy drowned right in the middle of the festivities. The sight of news helicopters, diving teams, and rescue vehicles seemed oddly out of place on this special day.

I felt such a sense of loss. I didn't know this boy or his family and I can only begin to imagine the horror of a family outing turned worst nightmare. We stopped and prayed for this boy and his family. It seemed almost obscene to see a majority of the crowd still celebrating as if nothing major was occurring just a beyond the shoreline.

For me, the celebration took on a whole new meaning. I was once again reminded of the temporary nature of any party here on earth. We only have today, this moment, this second. Anything can happen. Anything.

However, if we are daughters or sons of the King, in relationship with the Son, Jesus Christ, we have a future celebration that will never cease. For all eternity we will be joyously rejoicing in the presense of God almighty.

Last I heard, this young man remained in critical condition. He was underwater for fifteen minutes. I don't know his name or his personal story. What I do know is he is hanging between this world and the next. Can we join together and pray for God to give him a full recovery? Let's pray for his family and friends to find comfort in the Lord during this tragic time.

Lastly, let us rejoice that in our country we can still openly pray in Jesus' Name for our sick. Other countries don't have that same luxury. This truth is indeed cause for fireworks.

We women can be quite resourceful. Yes, men can as well, but I just read a recent news story about a woman who was stranded after she fell while hiking.  

Amazingly, she used her sports bra, attached to some sort of lift-wire to signal her whereabouts. Once the cable started working, her bra ended up in the right hands (that would be anyone’s hands at this point) and she was delivered to safety. Deep sigh of relief. The article acknowledged her intelligent consideration in planning what to send. After all, she needed the remainder of her clothing in order to stay warm overnight. She didn’t randomly choose to send her sports bra, she made a quick, well-assessed plan, and it worked.   

I often wonder if I would be so ingenious in a perilous situation. Do you ever do that? You know, you imagine yourself in a specific hair-raising place or position where you alone are responsible for saving the day, and yourself. I guess you might call this a form of daydreaming. But, hey, when I was an athlete (swimmer) back in the day, I always visualized myself performing well before my events. It worked! – most of the time. 

I’m not sure why I’m even thinking about this. I guess the whole “bra story” got me thinking about emergency planning and preparation. Many of us plan better for what might happen in the “physical realm” than we do in the spiritual. 

Okay, okay, sounds weird, but let me explain. Remember back during the Year-2000-Scare? Many people stocked up on water, food, flashlights. Some even built extravagant underground dwellings where they could stockpile their goods and live for extended periods of time if needed. They were ready for the worst.  

However, according to God’s plan we should be more concerned about the matters of the heart, our hearts. Do we love God?  Others?  Do we care about our character and living in a godly manner? Do we spend time combing His Word for those treasures that we can stockpile in our hearts? God tells us we should live in such a way that we are storing up rewards in Heaven not on earth. We try so hard to protect our physical selves, yet, so often, we fail to effectively manage our spiritual condition.  

I also recall during the preparation for the Year 2000 that many people actively, even aggressively, shared their concerns about the future and argued that we needed to be ready for worst possible scenario.  

Friends, the worst possible scenario would be to spend an eternity in hell apart from God’s presence. Yet, how much time and effort do we invest in helping others understand this very real threat? For me, unfortunately, I have to say, not enough.  

Maybe we should think a little harder, plan a little more, and become more ingenious like our lady hiker friend. I’m not suggesting we use our bras to spread the word, but we all have access to God’s Truth and His plan. Today is a new day. Let’s get creative and help people prepare for what’s real, forever, and always. Investing in the eternal makes sense considering where we spend our life after death is final.  

No need to wave your bra or boxers, just wave the Banner of Love.

Okay! I'm freaking out again. If you've been reading my blog, you know that my son, a sophmore catcher with a possible future in baseball, injured his knee. We finally met with the surgeon. The initial prognosis was inaccurate. Not the miniscus (sp?) He actually has a broken piece of bone floating like a swan on a lake inside his knee. Maybe a swan is too nice of a visual, after all, this thing is sharp and causing issues.

In fact, he thought he was getting better and went up to bat (just once) in a game. He shared with me that he felt something poking out the side of his knee. As he adjusted his pants before taking another swing, he pushed it back in. UG! EW! Yuk!

Until surgery, this boy is totally off baseball. Unfortunately, his team is not doing so well and apparently there is some dissension amongst kids and parents. Playing time. Older kids vs. the younger ones.

Isn't it amazing how when things aren't "right" emotionally and spiritually how it effects us in the physical? Hum --? Could that be the problem with the team? This is an awesome group of young men. I'm not even sure exactly what is going on. I know for me, it triggers memories of my horrible existence on a swim team in years past. If you've heard my extended testimony, you have likely heard about this. Let's just say, I was totally "picked on" and abused; did I mention betrayed, too?

Anyway, getting off subject. My point. I'm worried about my son. Then, to top it off, my young daughter ends up with a bladder infection. My mom has bronchitis and has been fainting. I missed work time. See what I mean ... 1, 2, 3.

1. Jordyn breaks knee

2. Grandma (my mom) gets very sick

3. Jade gets horrible, painful, highly annoying bladder infection.

Enough complaining. Just saying, life can be hard. As if you didn't know that.

What all this has led me to think about is just how temporary everything is. The Bible talks about our lives, in these bodies, being so very short. Things change. I have to remind myself that if my son is unable to play ball beyond high school, it's all in God's plan. The trophies and awards of this world will rust and turn to dust. There are no Oscar statues in Heaven.

Am I worrying more about earthly recognition than the heavenly rewards promised by our King? Sadly, at times, I am. I still seek approval from "man." I desire to win the game, or see my children win. Whatever that winning might look like.

Jesus doesn't care if we're All Star Baseball players, award winning authors, or famous actors. He cares about the condition of our hearts. His desire is for us to love Him and love others.

When we finally cross the threshold, from this life to the next, Jesus won't be asking to see a list of our earthly accomplishments. Rather, He is interested in knowing if we fed the hungry, gave water to the thirsty, visited those who were imprisoned, helped widows and orphans. Sadly, His Word tells us that if we have failed to do those things, we must depart from His presense. I don't like that alternative.

I'm not talking about faith vs. works. One flows from the other. For when we have truly accepted our Savior, in time, it will become more natural for us to serve. Good works surge from our deepening love of God.

I hate to admit, I'm still more self-absorbed than I want to be.

Lord, fill me with love for others. Make me a willing vessel of our truth and grace.

Oh how my heart cries out for more of Him.

Once again, through these three recent happenings, my King has reminded me that my time here is short. I can use it to further my own agenda, or use it to glorify Him. Lord, I choose you.

What do you choose? If you want to make a fresh commitment to serving God and letting go of all your earthly entanglements, please, send me a note.

Thankfully, the Bible tells us that there are many who have gone on before us and still more who travel beside us as we journey through life as sons and daughters of the King of Kings. Let's remember to lift one another up in prayer in the days ahead.

Please feel free to send me a prayer request or a comment. I'd love to hear from you.

Life has been challenging of late. Work. Kids. A battle with what I refer to as low-grade depression. (kind of like a low grade fever) This happens to me once a month. Need I say more?

Honestly, though, I truly am having a difficult time getting up and getting moving with those things that I need to do. I'm certain that sometimes I "tune out" due to the nature of my job. As a counselor, I work with many troubled and hurting people. My days are spent encouraging, motivating, and guiding others to better life decisions.

One woman that I'm working with is struggling to find freedom from drugs and a bad relationship. It saddens me to see the desperation in her and so many women. That desperate need to be loved by a man, any man, regardless of the consequences.

I've watched women lose everything for "their man." Homes, children, careers, financial security, basically their lives, all in the name of love. These undeserving men abuse, lie, cheat, manipulate, and harm the object of their so-called affection in ways beyond imagining. Yet, the woman is unable and unwilling, for what ever reason/s to let go of the destructive relationship.

I should know. I was one of those women.

Thankfully, a decade ago, God lifted me out of the muck and into His loving embrace. I've learned the joy of walking in purity and trusting that God has my best interest in mind. I want a man that loves God first and foremost, who loves me and my children, and is free from a life of carnal sins/or addictions, whatever you want to call them.

Obviously, we will all struggle with SOMETHING at different times in our walk with God, but when we let our feelings and emotions run our lives rather then looking at what God's Word tells us, we will find ourselves in deep doo doo ... sinking in stinking quicksand, unable to claw our way out by our own power.

I'd like to link you to another article on this subject. Please know, if you are in a destructive, abusive relationship, there is hope. God can set you free. More than likely He will lead you to a safe group of women who have traveled the same path.

Please read: http://christianwomentoday.com/closet/codependency.html

After reading this article, if you would like prayer, please, drop me a note. I'd be honored to pray with you.

Oh my goodness! There is so much going on in my life, but I had to take the time to respond to a "tag you're it" activity that my dear friend, Mike Dellosso, new author of The Hunted, tagged me for.

Yep. I'm IT! The whole concept was created as part of his new "Blog Book Tour." Here is the link if you'd like to read more about this: http://blogtourspot.wordpress.com/mike-dellosso-blog-tour/

Considering that Mike has written a page-turning spiritual thriller, the idea that others might want to share their own real-life scary stories was birthed.

So ... here is mine. Big Disclaimer: Do not do this!

When I was a young girl, I'm guessing about nine or ten, I attended a local day camp. We'd spend a week going from landmark to landmark, exploring, making homemade ice cream (the kind you churn by hand) and decorating a big, old, lumpy tree that our staff said had mystical qualities, thus its name - The Fairie Tree. We met every afternoon in the rustic lodge for campfire songs, stories, and fellowship.

At the end of the session, we were treated to an overnight at the camp. Each little group had its own tent. Of course, after whispering about boys and stuff, we all shared ghost stories and got all giggly and screechy just like little scared girls do at slumber parties. It was all in good fun until one girl suggested we play the "light as a feather" game. I'd never played this game and was excited as it sounded mysterious. I was also pretty skeptical about the expected results. So it began ...

One camper would lay flat on her back while the rest of us seated ourselves around her. Then we'd each slide two fingers under her body. We chanted some horrible thing that I can't remember the words to (thank you, God) and then we'd lift. I kid you not, there was levitation taking place in that tent. I'll never forget the horrifying feeling of being lifted up (like a feather) to the top of the tent. It was like we were all in some eerie trance. Spooky it most certainly was.

Looking back, I know exactly what was happening. We had unknowingly accessed the spiritual realm, and not the good guys. This game was pure evil, orchestrated by demons. Sadly, for me that was just the beginning of my journey into the occult.

So many teenagers open themselves up to the demonic realm without realizing what they're doing. Ouija boards, bloody Mary, Light as a Feather, tarot cards - all these "harmless" little games can open doors that later become very difficult to close.

It's up to us as parents and Christians to educate those around us about the dangers of messing with the darkside. Cheap thrills and so-called fun and games that involve occult activity are destined to bring harm not blessing.

Please, make sure you educate and prepare yourself to fight the good fight of faith. Keep your Armor on and your spiritual house in order. Maybe it's time to take out the trash in your own home. I don't mean the everyday garbage. I'm talking about anything that is not pleasing to God and that represents evil. If you think mindlessly reading your daily horoscope is okay, please, please, please, think again.

The best way to know what to look out for is to look to the One who has your best interest in mind - Jesus Christ. The Word, His Word, will provide the guidelines we need to live by. It's up to us to follow the directions.

I absolutely love this painting. I have no idea who created it. Please if you know, let me know. I'd love to give credit.

Sooooooooo ... the new not-so-fun news is that my son, a fifteen-year-old high school baseball catcher, who was just awarded the MVP Player and Biggest Hitter Awards for his JV Team (he's a sophmore), and who also received a varsity letter for playing up, is now facing possible menicus surgery. He was playing baskeball last week, got pushed, came down funny, twisting his knee. Major ouch!

For a catcher, knees are pretty important since they spend innning after inning squatting, then standing, dropping to the knees, jumping to the feet ... they're pretty busy.

At first, I totally over-dramatized the situation. No ... not me! Okay here's a summary of my raging thoughts:

"Oh no ... what will we do? He'll never play ball again. He'll be out of play for months, years ... forever. What will I do? I love to watch him play (catch that part? me, me, me) and can't imagine it being over so soon." Blah, Blah, Blah. Notice there wasn't much (anything) in there about how he might handle the worst?

Truthfully, many athletes have this common surgery and go on to have fine athletic careers. I can just fall into this non-trusting God mode, where I think the worst about just about anything (everything?) I think it's called catastrophising (not a word) but you get what I mean.

Thankfully, I'm not like this all the time, but it's sad to admit that I get that way at all considering I belong to the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings. Oh, me of little faith!

Then another thought crosses my mind. What if my son couldn't play baseball period? Would I trust that God knew what He was doing? Would I overcome the disapointment and be a good example for my son and others? Surely, I'd like to believe I would, but the way I was fretting today ...

Isn't it amazing how easy it is to tell someone else to have faith, not worry, and trust God, yet, we can end up in a tizzy over our own circumstances?

My answer: Crawl up into God's lap (figuratively speaking, of course) and spend time in His Word, praying, and praising Him for who He is. He doesn't have to do anything. He just is. That truth is more than enough.

 God loves us no matter what "condition" we are in. When I'm unfaithful, He remains faithful. When I'm unbelieving, He is still real. When I worry, He reminds me to look only at today today.

Freaking out about tomorrow, about anything, isn't worth our time or energy. We would be much better off by spending those wasted minutes in God's presense, for there, we will find rest, hope, and unlimited love.

So, no matter what you're dealing with today, remember, God wants to walk you through it.

Although my situation sounds "small" it was big enough to get my attention. Now, I can choose to stay stuck in my negative thinking or take my thoughts captive and focuss on the Life Changer.

I know what I'm going to do! How about you?

God bless you and keep you.

Ladies, don't forget to visit my newest blog:

http://www.princesswarriorsreignreal.blogspot.com/

Discover how to reign real as a Princess Warrior for Christ ... one step, one prayer, and even one blunder at a time.

I am thrilled to share that one of my friends, Mike Dellosso, has a new book on the market -- The Hunted. This Christian thriller brings to mind other authors like Frank Peretti, Ted Dekker, and Stephen King. If you enjoy an exciting read that keeps true to the Christian faith, you will want get your copy and start reading right away. I promise; this is a page-turner. My stamp of approval is all over this one.

This past week, in between work, appointments, ministry work, and, well, life stuff, I've somehow managed to eek out some personal reading time. I'm reading four books at once. I know. I know. I'm an odd duck. I did state clearly that I love books. It's been awhile since I've indulged myself in fiction. In addition to Mike's new novel, I'm reading another fast-paced adventure/thriller by Robert Liparulo called Deadfall.

I'm also perusing two nonfiction books that supply solid answers to the questions and arguments that atheists so readily fire our way from their so-called cannon of reason.

What's so Great about Christianity? by Dinesh D'souza, and The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Bible, Robert J. Hutchinson, should be read by every believer who wants to refute common athiest complaints to Christian history and beliefs. I am amazed by the research that these two highly investigative men have invested in their work. I've also been surprised by just how much I didn't know about the Bible and the history of the Christian Church. We've got quite a legacy, friends. Good stuff!

I'd love to know what you're reading. Any suggestions? Don't worry; I still make time to study/read the Bible and do my devotions, even in the midst of my current reading frenzy.

I can't get God off my mind ... ever. For that I'm grateful, although, sometimes, I'm reminded (by God, of course) of areas in my life that still require some serious work -- heart work. It's difficult to walk close to God when you're trying to avoid His ever-present ability to peer into your soul, challinging you to surrender sin and draw closer to Him. And for me, even good Christian fiction can awaken and alert me to things that need to change.

I say the above because I've had a number of people, over time, question my desire to read fiction, yes, Christian fiction, too. I thoroughly understand that for some folks keeping to the Bible is what they choose to do, but, I don't think we should ever look down our noses if others choose to make additional reading choices. That just seems strange to me, yet, it's happened.

Personally, I believe, and have seen, more often than not, God using a variety of avenues to share His truths. Obviously, the Bible is His primary source. But we can glean much from other good books, stories, and articles. Jesus, after all, was a seasoned storyteller.

A good author can weave God's message through an exciting tale, leaving us with more than a taste of His truth and grace.

Not to mention, reading is such a great alternative to TV and over- indulging on the computer. Nothing quite compares to cracking the cover and smelling that new-book freshness, or the fragrance that emits from within the battered binding and fading pages of an ancient text. Ahhhhhh ... gotta love it! So ...

Go on! Turn off that TV. Grab a book. Read!