“Be still and know that I AM God...”          Psalm 46:10-a


On more than one occasion I have written about solitude; because, I believe it is the best way for most people to figure out the deeper aspects of their life, in reference to most things, including where God fits in.

The desert is one of the best metaphors for inertia –stillness. It easily conjures images of insatiable thirst, unending desire, and stillness. All things, which most of us deplore; and yet, many of us must endure in order to move forward. Consider it like sleep; without it, we experience difficulty functioning the next day, a mere 24 hours later. I was thinking about today’s verse in reference to all these things, when I received a post from a friend regarding a phenomenon taking place in the Atacama Desert in Chile, one of the driest deserts in the world. 

Years ago, I was told that, if it were to rain on the Sahara Desert in North Africa, it would be one of the most fertile places on earth; possibly, even the Garden of Eden. Yet, although it made sense intellectually; I considered it mere speculation. Then I received some rare photos of the Atacama Desert in full bloom and today’s verse took on an even greater meaning.

Like the stillness of the desert waiting on God’s response to its query, there are times when we must wait, learn, and grow before we can receive a response. And, like the desert, where its seeds lie in state germinating, waiting to gain all the nutrients necessary to strengthen its ability to bloom; often, we must do the same; wait, learn, and grow so that we too can bloom. Yet, we will need to "...Be still and know that God is God."  Then, just like the flowers of the Atacama Desert featured in the photo above, when we bloom, everyone  will take notice!  L.

*Now, it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse in your journal.

​Study Reference: Psalm 46:10, Psalm 91:1-2
From: “Your Thoughts: Blooming, In A Dry Place."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Paulo Maldonado Larrondo

  "... And Jesus answering said unto them, “They that are whole need not a Physician; but they that are sick.  I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.”    Luke 5:31-32
 

Today, let’s take a look at people who were considered the very pinnacle of sin in ancient Judea—the tax collectors; or, as the Bible calls them --Publicans.  First, we have to understand that publicans, like our tax collectors today, were looked upon with disdain.  Just imagine, it’s been 2000 years, and most people still don’t like tax collectors or those who work for them. However, in the time of Jesus it was utter sacrilege to be a tax collector; since, their job was closer in virtue to organized crime. It was similar to how mobsters skim money from local businesses within a designated area. —No one liked tax collectors; even their families were ashamed of what they did for a living.  All tax collectors were outcasts within Judean society and considered the worst sinners; so, like true mobsters, they primarily socialized only with other tax collectors.  Luke 5:26-32 says:

“And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying,  "We have seen strange things
today."  And after these things He went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and He said unto him, "Follow Me."  And he left all, rose up, and followed Him.  And Levi made Him a great feast in his own house; and there was a great company of publicans and others that sat down with them.  But the scribes and Pharisees murmured against His disciples, saying, "Why do Ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners?”" 

Or, one of my personal favorites found in Luke 19:2-7:
“And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus, who He was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycamore tree to see Him: for He was to pass that [way].  And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, "Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for today I must abide at thy house."  And he made haste, and came down, and received Him joyfully.  And when they saw [it], they all murmured, saying, ‘That He was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.’”

Imagine for a moment, just how hated the tax collectors were. They were hated by the common people, the wealthy, the farmers, and the priests.  --Everyone hated the tax collectors; and yet, Jesus saw fit to not only interact with them, but to literally invite Himself to dine and commune with the chief among them. 

Let’s fast forward to today, what does this have to do with you?  There are many people in and out of the body of Christ who we believe are chief sinners. They have done the unthinkable; murder, robbery, adultery, fornication, porn, etc. They have cursed, slandered, hated, committed genocide, profited from wars, slavery, starvation, and trafficking.  Most of us consider them the chief among sinners; and yet, the Bible says:
"... Righteousness is given through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference; for all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God, and all are justified freely by His Grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."   Romans 3:22-24

Like Levi and Zacchaeus, representatives of the chief among sinners in their day, God offers you Grace: "The free and unmerited Favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings; if, like them, you accept the calling of Jesus Christ.  Christ calls YOU, by name, to follow Him. When you heed His call, you open the opportunity for Him to commune bountifully with you, bringing His Gifts, Blessings, Love and Forgiveness. 
—So yes, like the chief among sinners, you too can dismiss the burden of past sins, and accept the full blessing of God’s unmerited favor!

Study Reference: Genesis 32:28, Luke 5:31-32, Luke 5:26-32, Luke 19:2-7
From: "The Chief Sinner." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock


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"What is man that Thou art mindful of him? And the son of man, that Thou visitest him."      Psalm 8:4

 
Suppose that today, instead of feeling like a powerful Child of the Most High God, you are feeling alone, left out, invisible, or unloved. And, no matter what you tell yourself to get out of it, you still find yourself thinking about it all day.  —Then, here is something else for you to meditate on instead.

If you really stopped for a moment to consider just how much God really Loves you, it would be absolutely staggering!  God is ever mindful of every detail of your life.  He is so mindful in fact, that within an earthly population of over seven BILLION people, even the tiny swirls on your fingertips —something that you never really look at, barely acknowledge, or ever pay any attention to, can never be found on any other person, anywhere in the world!  Not even an identical twin!  —That’s just how “mindful” God was when He decided that You should be born.
How’s that for attention to detail!  

So remember, it doesn't matter how you feel; feelings can betray you.  You are never alone; never left out; never invisible; and, above all, definitely Loved!  So, go ahead, get on your knees, clasp your hands, and speak to your Heavenly Father!  L. 
 
​**Now, it’s your turn to write down your own thoughts in your journal regarding today’s verse.

Study Reference: Psalm 8:4
Excerpt from: Your Thoughts: “It’s All About YOU” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo:  pinterest /Zohar    
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​"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon Me, and ye shall go and pray unto Me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek Me, and find Me when ye shall search for Me with all your heart.”       Jeremiah 29:11-13
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American writer, Henry David Thoreau, was born in 1817. He wrote in an era when the male majority literally had all the privileges of a new independence. Yet, he is credited with the quote: “Most men [and women] lead lives of quiet desperation and go to the grave with the song still in them.” Thoreau wrote this statement contemplating his own personal understanding of quiet desperation and that of mankind.

At some point in our lives, we all suffer from secretly living in quiet desperation. For most of us, it occurs when we believe we are not fulfilling, or have no hope of realizing our God-given potential. For others, it is the full acceptance of mediocrity, both in themselves and others. It is safer to continue in the mundane routine of our daily lives, than to take the risk of the unknown, to break free of the quiet unlit embers that have somehow quelled the fire in our souls.

In today’s verse, God reminds us that no matter how dismayed we become, His thoughts towards us are of Divine Love and complete peace. No matter how discouraging our circumstances, when we call on the name of Jesus, the verse says, He will hear our plea and respond. There is absolutely no reason to go through your life in quiet desperation. At some point, you will have to really believe that God values your life’s potential.  After all, He was the One who placed it in you to begin with.

Take the time to really read your Bible; it was created to inspire deep internal thought about your life in relation to God. Use it as the ultimate tool to guide you in understanding the God-given potential for your life. Pray for guidance to alleviate any inner doubts so that you can internalize the depth of God’s Love towards you. Continue to write down your thoughts as you read. It will recalibrate your thinking to foster action, helping you to develop a keen awareness of your life’s purpose; and, eliminate that quiet desperation we often feel.  Believe that God values your life’s potential, because the contrary would be to agree with Thoreau, and, go to the grave with your  song still inside you. L.

Study Reference: Jeremiah 29:11-13 
From: "Quiet Desperation." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​“…That ye may know the way by which ye must go; for ye have not passed this way heretofore. And Joshua said unto the people; sanctify yourselves; for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”  
Joshua 3:4-5

 
The idea behind learning new things is to maintain a given standard, while applying new techniques to update both our skills and our thinking.  It is the difference between rubbing two sticks together to create fire and lighting a match; or, between lighting a match, and clicking a lighter.  All three techniques will create fire, yet, each one is a more efficient tool than the last.

If we are unaware of or afraid to use more efficient tools, we will not be able to function more effectively and efficiently at the same task as someone else. And, we cannot use these tools to our advantage or to advance our heavenly directive. Others will be able to incorporate it into their daily routine, creating a new standard for all within their environment.  They will know, and you will not.  Of course, there are advantages to using the old tried and true methods of our fore-parents.  And, there are times when modern amenities offer a much more advantageous outcome.  In most instances, time is the deciding factor.  —​What does all this have to do with God?  

God created us to evolve; and evolve we have.  He has given us the decision to choose the latter things over the former, or vice versa. —Coupled with the option to remain stagnant or to move forward, He provided a promise that if we remain steadfast in each step of our journey, we will be prompted toward a more excellent way. 

When we read about the Children of Israel moving from the wilderness, through the Jordan River, and into the Promise land, they were clearly bombarded with the burden of learning new things. They had to release everything they had previously learned from their parents about living life in the wilderness, and accept the new directives from God, in order to live in the new land of promise.  The previous standards of their fore-parents had become irrelevant; they now had to adhere to a new directive —and, a new standard, if they were to survive. 

When we read the New Testament, the Sanhedrin represented the former things; the animal sacrifices, isolation of the priests from the people, and worst of all, putrid thinking. With the arrival of Jesus Christ came a more advanced directive —an evolution of thought; a new and more efficient way to God—a new breed of Judaism; a new religion called, Christianity.    

No more did we have to go through a priest to talk to God.  No more did we have to offer a blood sacrifice to atone for our sins.  The veil of the tabernacle that separated us from God was destroyed.   And a new, more efficient and excellent way, was created for us to access God directly. 

Some of us prefer the old ways, there's nostalgia in it. Our parents did it that way; our grandparents and great-grandparents did it that way.  Why should we change the process?    

There are many reasons, but consider this; we change the process to access more time.  More time to be with those we love.  More time to do the things we love.  More time to learn and create. And, most of all, more time to grow closer to God.   L. 

Study Reference: Joshua 3:4-5
From: "Learning New Things."   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Joel Robison

"...Then I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statues, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do them.”     Ezekiel 36:25-26
 

Upon our baptism as adults, after we have been baptized of the Holy Spirit, we are cleansed of all filthiness and idolatry in our lives.  It means that we have received a fresh start to our lives and no stronghold will imprison us again.  It means we have received power from without to eliminate anything God does not want within.  That was the good news! 

The issue is, we must now make a conscious effort to call on the Holy Spirit to continuously aid us in resisting the temptations which can haunt our memories.  We must call on the Spirit to guide us in overcoming and resisting the memories and weaknesses of the past.  The more we do this, the more we learn to resist past temptations.  The more we practice, like everything else, the better we become at it.  It may also mean that we will have to change those people around us who are still caught in the ravages of the things we left behind.  Because, either they will continuously remind us of our past, or they will attempt to pull us back into the same pathology we elected to leave behind when we decided to follow Jesus Christ.  Furthermore, keep in mind, those who attempt to pull us back into the things we left behind are not bad.  Many times they just do not believe that we have changed, and/or they simply fall into the old adage of, “misery loves company.”  Either way, it becomes a level of power and control on your life that most people will not relinquish easily. 

Also keep in mind, many times you will not be able to have both; the thing you left behind, and the new thing God is enacting in you.  We can relate it to an attempt at keeping both eyes focused on two cars going in opposite directions.  Although easily achievable for most birds, it is an impossible feat for humans; we must make a choice to only follow one car. 

It will not matter who or what it is you leave behind when you decide to follow God; God is “no respecter of persons, powers, or principalities.”  If it is someone who truly loves you, he/she will understand your need to transition your life in the direction God commands.  If they do not understand, they will not be able to help you in the process anyway, so let them go.  Eventually, when you have gone through God’s transition period, and you are strong enough to resist the temptations of the past, God may use you to lead others lost in the ravages of your former pathology back to Him.  

God expects us to call on the Holy Spirit to strengthen us in righteousness and truth.  Jesus knew and understood how difficult it was going to be for us to remain on course after our baptism, so He gave us help.  He is our Comforter; the One who aids us in overcoming temptation or any other battles we may face.  Remember to ask for guidance and the strength to overcome; because, no matter how terrible things are, or how horrible you may be feeling, The Comforter will come to you when you call on Him.  L.

Study Reference: Ezekiel 36:25-26, John 16:4-16 
From: "Accepting Power!"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: squarespace

"...Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; For Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.  For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”      Matthew 6:11-15


Here's the thing about forgiveness, it is really basic. You must forgive those who have hurt you, because if you do not it will make YOU sick, literally!  Unforgiveness only hurts YOU. Yes, YOU!  The other person is walking around living their life while you are in pain reliving the issue. Let it go, and let God handle it!  I am not saying it is easy; unforgiveness coupled with deep emotional anger can be powerful opposition. But every time you think about it, talk about it, or reiterate it, you are damaging your own body by making your immune system weak. 

The Bible says in Mark 3:27, “No man can enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods; except he will first bind the strong man, and then he will spoil his house.”  In other words, if you are walking in the strength of God, nothing can harm you unless it binds you first. Unforgiveness is a way to take you off your game, binding you so that you can be robbed of the principles you hold dear. It is a way of tying your spirit down, weakening your armor so you cannot receive the blessings God has planned for your life.
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And, since I know how difficult it can be to forgive someone who has damaged you to your very core, here's my advice. Every time you think about it, want to talk about it, or start to reiterate the incident, stop!  Start to pray for that person instead, and don't forget to pray for yourself.  I know it sounds a little corny and a little too simple; however, keep doing this every time the issue rears its ugly head. Eventually, you will be able to dismiss the issue. 

I must tell you, if the person has damaged you more than once, and seems to continuously travel in this direction, depending on the hierarchical position that you have placed them in your life, you may also have to dismiss them ; or, get used to spending a lot more time on your knees.  L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 6:11-15 
From: "The "F" Word."  In the Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Adobe stock
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​“Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works; show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.  Thou believe that there is one God; thou doest well; the devil also believes, and tremble. But will thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”       
James 2:18-20 


​There seems to be a serious discussion among Christians about the concept of faith vs. works.  To be honest, I just don’t understand the debate. How can we believe in Jesus Christ and not work in fulfillment of what we believe?
—​Are not our actions a manifestation of what we believe? 

There are those who faithfully attend religious services every week. They drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, and partake in illegal drugs on those days when they do not attend church services. Does the scripture indicating the sanctity of the body temple mean anything to them? (1 Corinthians 6:19)  And, there are those of us, who go through the Ten Commandments on a regular basis, simply to confirm which ones we didn't break. Do these actions speak to our faith?  Maybe, we are on the fence when it comes to having a complete relationship with God, teeter-toddling between what we know and what we do.  Or, it could be that we believe, one thing does not have anything to do with the other.

It is interesting to note that the Bible says, “…But be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves…”  James 1:22.  We are deceiving ourselves if we believe that we can separate our faith from our actions. Our actions are indicative of our faith.  This is the reason we ask for forgiveness for those things we have done that we know are insulting to God.  It is the reason we repent of those things which conflict with our faith.  We are not perfect; as humans we struggle with all sorts of feelings, urges, and habits that can appear difficult for us to resist. However, as Christians, we have faith.  We build our faith on God’s strength, not our own.  We function daily in God’s Divine Grace, and yet still, our works and our actions become the manifestation of our faith. 

In today’s text, the reference to the devil believing in God, reminds those of us who profess our belief in God, yet, continue to do those things which insult God, that the devil has a full understanding of God also.  He professes God as Creator; yet, he is still His enemy.  His actions support his faith. Don’t be confused. It is not enough to believe in God, your actions must support your faith in God. 

Our example is Jesus Christ; His works were the manifestation of His complete connection to God. They were the manifestations of His Faith.  Remember, it was Jesus who said, “…Greater works than these shall you do because I go to My Father.”  John 14:12

When He said this, He was referring to the dimension of faith we have in Him and its connection to our actions manifesting in our works.  Our works are manifestations of our belief.  And, just in case this concept is still difficult to understand, try not doing the work you were hired to do at your current workplace, and see how long you last. 
—Chances are, your work, or lack thereof, will manifest as a lack of faith in job security.   L.
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Study Reference: James 1:22-25, 2:18-20, Revelation 22:11-12
From: "Faith vs. Works." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Getty Images

“For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you.”      
Matthew 10:20


At the opening ceremony of one of my favorite museums, I spotted a woman that I had not seen in a while. And, although we were not friends, we always greeted each other with a smile. 

"I can't believe you are here!”   She said, smiling at me, “—I have been looking for you for one year! "     
"No,"  I said,  "-I don't think it's been that long."   
“-Yes!"  She said firmly, 
"--It has been exactly a year! And, I was hoping that you would be here!"    I started to laugh out loud, "Hmm,... sounds serious, I don't owe you money, do I?"   We both began to laugh.  "-No.”  She said, continuing with some level of excitement. “--I just really wanted to thank you and tell you how much you helped me! --You were so right! "   She said smiling. "--And, it worked out just as you said it would!"   "Really?"  I said; trying desperately to remember what we actually spoke about one year earlier, while hoping that she would give me a hint.  

I vaguely recalled telling her that the issue she was facing may be God's way of moving her in a different direction; but, for the life of me, I could not remember the details.  And, after rattling my aging brain for a while, I finally said, "What exactly was it that I said to you?"    Looking a little stunned, she said, "You really don't remember?"   
"-No."  I said, more amazed that she was amazed that I did not remember the specifics of our year-old conversation.
"Well,"   She said, "--I have to believe that God needed for me to hear what He was trying to tell me. I was being hard-headed and would not listen. So, He used you so I could hear His Voice from someone else."
Although she never filled in the details, I had to agree; because, to this day, I still cannot recall the specific details of our conversation. 

Christians asking for The Power to speak to others about Jesus, is probably less common than God asking us to speak to others about Him. Often, there is fear. —Fear of rejection, ridicule, and a lack of knowledge associated with speaking to others about Jesus. However, Jesus understands our fears and in most instances will prompt us to action.

There will be times when, we will be in the right place, at precisely the right time to help someone else understand why Jesus loves them. On some of those occasions it will be our words, on other occasions, it will be our actions. We do not have to remember the details; we simply have to remember that we are living testimonies to the Life, Love, and Power of Jesus Christ. L.

Study Reference: Matthew 10:20
From:"The Power to Speak."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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 "Then said He unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death; tarry ye here, and watch with Me. And He went a little farther, and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as Thou wilt. And He cometh unto the disciples, and finding them asleep, said unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with Me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation; the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.”  Matthew 26:38-41
 

People who encourage others are effortlessly recognizable; they are usually the ones who others easily rally around.  Their presence and personality is infectious; simply being around them moves you to action.  Sometimes, they can be creative, daring, spontaneous; and, at other times, pensive and practical.  Nonetheless, there is always someone with this trait a dial tone away.  This person may be you, or someone close to you.  Let’s call them “The Encouragers.” Not everyone has an encouraging personality. There are those who do not encourage anyone, not even themselves; and, when they do take the time to encourage others to take a leap, it is from a 25th floor windowsill!  I recently gave someone an analogy using blood types in referring to “The Encouragers." 

“What is your blood type?”  I asked.  “I believe it’s Type-O.”   He said. “Perfect!” I said.  “Someone with Type-O blood is a universal donor; you can give blood to anyone to keep him or her alive on a battlefield; however, you cannot receive blood from anyone other than another Type-O donor. Receiving blood from a donor other than a type-O donor will result in your death.  It would be more advantageous for doctors to infuse coconut water into your veins to keep you alive, than to take blood from one of those other blood types!”  The same thing goes for an “Encourager;”he or she can easily encourage others, all those A, B, AB, and even O types that need encouraging on a reoccurring basis.  However, only another “Encourager” can give an “Encourager” encouragement; because, the ordinary rah-rah-rah speech will not work on them.

There are times when an encourager needs complete recharging, and only a real Diehard Encourager will do.  The Bible is full of those who offered encouragement to its heroes and heroines, i.e., Ruth and Naomi; Moses and Joshua; Esther and Mordecai; David and Jonathan, etc.  Yet, even Jesus, the most powerful Encourager of all, needed encouragement while He was in the Garden of Gethsemane.  His family was not around; and, His key disciples kept falling asleep.  He could not turn to anyone but His Father in Heaven.  

If you have an Encourager in your life, take the time to contact him or her today.  Thank them for helping you to persevere through all those occasions where you truly felt like faltering.  If you are an Encourager, don’t forget to take the time today to  pray for yourself. It will allow you to recharge your "battery"  using a direct connection to our heavenly Father.  Remember, a recharged battery, is the only way for you to continue helping those who need you. And, more importantly, it will boost your energy, stamina, and faith to encourage others for yet another day!  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 26:36-46 
From:"The Encouragers." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
​Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: istock

“And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.” 
1 John 5:14-15 
“Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak; for your work shall be rewarded.”  2 Chronicles 15:7 

 
We have been told more often than not that, "failure is not an option;" so, it has become increasingly difficult to deal with the things in our lives we consider failures.  We have taken failure out of the equation of living, because we are under the premise that failure means weakness; not understanding that, failure simply eliminates one or more methods of doing something, and can be a stepping stone to the reality of what is necessary to achieve success.

Years ago, while reading about Thomas Edison, I was surprised at how many times he failed before getting the design and function of his version of the light bulb to work.  Although he remained determined to use electricity to power light in a tube, he failed miserably at it for years.  Many other inventors had attempted to create a long lasting “light bulb;” however, the best bulb they were able to create was a light bulb that lasted only 3-4 hours at best.  Edison wanted a light bulb that would last months.  When he and his team finally got the basic concept of the bulb to work, he was asked how he finally came up with the solution.  Edison replied, "I have not failed a thousand times. I have successfully discovered a thousand ways not to make a light bulb." 

Many of us look at our failures as huge stumbling blocks in our lives; specific points where we have fallen short of our own expectations or the expectations of others, when in fact, nothing could be further from the truth.  Many times our failures are not the issue.  The issue is, like Edison and his team, whether we are able to get up, dust ourselves off, and walk back to the drawing board to find a new method that works. 

To be honest, we have been “failing” at various things our entire lives. We simply have not looked at these endeavors as failures. For example, when we learned to ride a bike for the first time, and all the times afterwards until we were able to ride without falling. What about when we learned to drive a car, or used a computer, or attempted to cook, etc. We regard these simply as learning, albeit by trial and error.  Yet, whether it is trial and error, trial by fire, or trial of faith, our quest is to try to get it right—as right as we possibly can.

We will never be excellent at everything; some things are meant for us to appreciate, not undertake.  However, when we fail, and we will fail at various undertakings in our lives, the point is for us to get up and try again, or move on to something else.  Our failures should not condemn us, destroy us, or bind us from succeeding in the future.  They are simply examples of how not to do something in the future. In addition to this, there will be times when our failure has nothing to do with anything we did.  In those cases, the method used was absolutely correct, but the timing was off. 

Even Faith can fall under the failure category. It’s when we find ourselves in a situation where having Faith is the only viable option in determining our success—and then, it fails also.  When this occurs, understand that failure of Faith simply reinforces that we must increase our resolve and strengthen our belief.  It’s when we discover that Faith, like everything else in our lives, is not easy.  It takes trial and error to perfect it; and, it takes practice—purposeful practice. 
​
Yes, failure is optional, but Faith is not. You will need to truly believe in success before it becomes evident; understanding that, after many trials and a few good errors, failure is a gift.  —A gift given to you so you can pursue and achieve Faith.  L.   

Study Reference: 1 John 5:14-15, 2 Chronicles 15:7
Excerpt from: "The Gift of Failure." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: tapyaps

"Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul. I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing; I am come into deep waters where the floods overflow me. I am weary of my crying; my throat is dried; mine eyes fail while I wait for my God.”     Psalm 69:1-3 

 
I met a young woman who was admitted into the hospital because she was at the end of her rope, literally.  She had tried to do the unthinkable by deciding to end her life in an attempted suicide.  When I heard the surface details of her life, she should have been proud; her accomplishments would have made anyone proud. Yet somehow she became so disconnected from God that taking her life seemed her only option.  

The day I met her, she had already received counseling, medication, and some much needed attention from more healthy souls.  When I made an attempt to pronounce her name correctly, she smiled a beautiful shy smile, and said, Perfect!”      “What a beautiful name,” I said, “--What does it mean?”     She looked at me for a moment and quietly said, “A river runs through heaven.”   I repeated the words, “…a river runs through heaven…, —​how beautiful!”  

My eyes began to well with tears; I knew why she was there, and although I wasn't supposed to get involved, I looked at her and said, “You are a blessed child and well loved.  When you were born, your mother looked into your eyes, saw your beautiful face and declared… a river runs through heaven.”  She beamed with the innocent smile of a young girl.  I continue to remember her beautiful smile even now as I write this, and my eyes easily well up with tears. Think of it; a river running through heaven—holy replenishment from God. Not simply well water, or rain, but clean refreshing water moving rapidly to find you and replenish your soul—a river running through heaven.   I came home with her on my mind and have decided to take the time to pray for her every day until the burden leaves me.  

Young people are more prone to suicide than most people are aware; they are especially sensitive to their surroundings, to other people, and those they love. After her suicide attempt, the counselors asked her what prompted her attempt to take her life. She told them that she missed her home and the love of her family. So remember, just because someone seems to have it together, does not mean they do.  Take the time to ask young people about their feelings.  Share God’s Word of Life with them. But more importantly, remember to open your heart and share God’s Love with them.   L.

Study Reference: Psalm 69:1-3 
From: "A River Runs Through Heaven." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wallpaper.com

**I recently watched two short videos concerning this topic on TED.com that I would like you to watch; JD Schramm, “Break the Silence of Suicide Attempt Survivors;” and, Kevin Briggs, “The Bridge Between Suicide & Life.” You can watch both videos on our  Media page.  When I wrote this daily, I truly felt led by the Spirit to write about this topic. At the time, I did not know that every 30 seconds in the world, someone attempts suicide. So, if this person is you or someone you know, please, please, please, talk to someone—friend, family, clergy, or anyone you believe you can trust for help.  Scream…”I need HELP!”  And, if they still somehow cannot understand that you are truly spiraling downward, please call a taxi, walk into the emergency room of a major hospital and personally tell a nurse or physician the truth about how you feel.  Check yourself in for the night; they will take care of you until you are ready to leave.  You really have no idea how many people truly care about you, and how much they can help you. Know that you are stronger than depression or suicide! -YOU can get better!  

Be aware, medication is not for everyone. Although I am not a physician; I believe some medications make those that are depressed worse than they were before they began taking them.  So, be wary.  Talk to someone!  Speak up!  Share how you are feeling with someone!  You are not alone! God truly does love YOU! And He meant for YOU to LIVE!   
-L.C.

*In the U.S. call the: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or click the link below. 
This is a free, 24-hour hotline service available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. If you prefer to be online, or if you are Outside the U.S., talk with someone directly on their website. Just click this link: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org   

*Also, if you need to learn how to help someone that you believe may be in distress, check out the website for more info: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org ​

​

"…And He said to Jeroboam, take thee ten pieces; for thus saith the Lord, the God of Israel, Behold, I will rend the kingdom out of the hand of Solomon, and will give ten tribes to thee, …because they have forsaken Me…”
1 Kings 11:31-33
 

King Solomon, King David’s son, was considered the wisest king of Israel. He was chosen by God to build the Tabernacle of God in Jerusalem, the ultimate temple.  Like Noah, God gave Solomon specific measurements to build His tabernacle. The remnants of which is still present in modern-day Jerusalem today. Given this great task, we can imagine that Solomon, like his father David, was truly loved by God. Yet Solomon lost his reverence for God by accepting and appeasing the idols of his many wives. His act of disobedience caused the dismantling of the twelve tribes of Israel. And, as a result, the mantle of leadership would be stripped from the House of David, leaving Solomon’s successor, his son Rehoboam, to ultimately lead only two tribes of Israel.

Instead, God blessed Jeroboam, a servant in King Solomon’s household with the mantle of leadership, giving him ten of the twelve tribes.  At first, he accepted God’s promised blessing, with the understanding that, he would lead Israel in reverence, back to the one true God as King David had done. But then, something happened —success.  

He was accepted by the people to become King of Israel.  And, although he built two altars to offer sacrifices to God, he feared that the people, in their repentance and worship of God, would remember their love for King David, and return the kingdom back to Solomon’s son, Rehoboam. So instead, he created two golden calves to replace what should have been God’s altar, convincing the people that it was too difficult for them to travel to Jerusalem to offer sacrifices to God.  He further convinced them to offer sacrifices locally to the god of Egypt—the golden calf. They listened, and accepted this illicit behavior.  

The story, found in 1 Kings 11, is a reminder to those in  positions of leadership that, whether you lead a ministry, state, or nation, your decisions impact a greater realm than your own life.  If you make a decision, remember to work with God’s leadership, not against it. If your ego, fear, or pride takes precedence over your love for God and the people whom He has asked you to serve, there is no question about it, you are headed for disaster. Here’s what happened to Jeroboam’s lineage because he led the people in worshiping and offering sacrifices to idols.

“Therefore, behold, I will bring evil upon the house of Jeroboam, and will cut off from Jeroboam him that pisseth against the wall, and him that is shut up and left in Israel, and will take away the remnant of the house of Jeroboam, as a man taketh away dung till all be gone.  Him that dieth of Jeroboam in the city, shall the dogs eat. Him that dieth in the field, shall the fowls of the air eat; for the Lord has spoken it.”  1 Kings 14:10-11 

There’s more, but you get the picture. God allowed his reign to last twenty-two years; but, He cursed his entire lineage, wiping them off the face of the earth. He didn't even allow their bodies to be buried in the ground. It would have been better for Jeroboam to have followed God’s lead, or not accept the mantle of leadership of God’s people. Unfortunately, Jeroboam’s ego got the best of him, and his entire lineage suffered because of it.  So, make a note; if you are going to lead God’s people, lead with God in mind.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Kings, Chapters 11-14, 15:29-30
​From: “Leadership Change.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo:  shutterstock

​"Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the Lord.”    Psalm 4:5


When I consider a sacrifice of righteousness, it means that, although some things can seem socially appealing or even innocent to do, if God has asked me not to do it, I trust that in obeying Him, it will ultimately be to my benefit, –no matter "how I feel " at the moment.

Yet, there are times when our sacrifice will be in our willingness to change the trajectory of our current life’s path. At other times, it may mean dismissing someone or something from our life, so that we can live a life fueled by the Will of God.  Ultimately, it can be as simple as prayer & fasting, or as radical as selling everything you own, and moving to another country to enact His Will.  

​In Romans 12:1 the Bible actually indicates that we have a reasonable sacrifice to maintain our bodies as a living sacrifice to God. This means that we have a basic duty to truly take care of our bodies; and, to praise, pray, and worship God with our life and our deeds.

What about you? What does it mean to you to offer sacrifices of righteousness?

After reading today’s verse, you may be wondering how offering God a sacrifice of righteousness could ever aid you in developing a deeper relationship with God. –Well, it’s actually a very basic premise. –We only sacrifice ourselves for the things we deeply need, or those we truly love.  L.

**Consider writing out what today's verse means to you, not simply a translation of the text; but, as God's personal promise to you.​

​Study Reference: Psalm 4:5
From: “Your Thoughts: Reasonable Sacrifice.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Google images

“O send out Thy Light and Thy Truth; let them lead me…”     Psalm 43:3 a


In today’s world truth has become relative; Republicans say one thing, Democrats say another.  Major corporations spin their humanitarian deeds one way, small businesses another. The news agencies promote one level of information, while the Internet fosters another. Two people see the same incident; and yet, we receive two completely incongruent stories.  Many of us will determine who we believe is offering the truth about a particular subject, basing our determination of truth on how relative it is to what we believe. Yet, in all honesty, integrity has waned not only in our nation but, around the world. This is not something new; it has always been like this. In today’s culture, with an earthly population of seven billion people, it is simply more prevalent. It is a sign of the times. 

We now live in a disposable society where even truth becomes disposable based on which side of the coin you are on and how vulnerable you are to the story. Yet, we must remember that, our guidance system is not this person or that person; but, the Biblical Word of God.

We are reminded of this in Mark 10:17-18, where a seeker says to Jesus, “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?  To which Jesus responds, “Why call Me good, there is none good but One; that is God.” 

Imagine, God walked with Adam and he did not tell the truth; He walked with Cain, same outcome plus murder. If you find a little 3 year old child and speak to them for about 10 minutes, chances are they are going to put an elaborate spin on the tale that they are telling you.  And, I dare say, even you and I placed under duress will conjure a good tale or two; it is the nature of being human.  When we listen to others, everything must be taken in context
–everything.  
​
As Christians, we position ourselves from a position of loftiness. We attempt to work the biblical concepts that we study into our lives so that we can live our best life; however, we are only human.  –And, it is precisely our humanity that will always mislead us. There are so many forces working against us in reference to the truth, if you really want to know God’s Truth about any matter important to you, you must always ask for His Light and Truth to lead you. Why?  Because, everything else is camouflage.  L.

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse.
​
Study Reference: Psalm 43:3 a, Mark 10:17-18
From: “Your Thoughts: Truth” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."       Luke 6:38


All Christians know that giving is an essential part of being a Christian. Whether we give our time, share our talent, or donate our money, our faith propels us to understand that, as we give, we will receive showers of blessings and replenishment tenfold. Not necessarily monetarily, but in the form of the blessings that we actually need.

The act of giving, in and of itself, generates its own reward, both to the donor and the recipient. It is an act that somehow connects unknown people, one to another, in gratitude and love. The reward to donors is the understanding that God has already blessed us so abundantly, we have a virtual pool of resources we can offer others. 

...The acceptance of the gift also has its own reward. The reward to the recipients is the opening of our heart and mind in understanding that although we may "feel" depleted and alone, the fact is, we are not. It comes with an awareness that there are people unbeknownst to us who care about our well-being, simply because, they have been granted the gift of caring for others.

And to be certain, caring for and about others is a gift. -It offers us the opportunity to see our own posterity and frailties.  Like Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge; the more he held on to the things he should have shared, the more miserable he became. When he began to release the resources he was blessed with, his love, character, and quality of life expanded. The lesson he learned is exactly the same for the rest of us today.
 
When you are a Christian you develop a larger, more profound understanding of giving. We do not give to be replenished or blessed by God; we give because we are already replenished and blessed by God.
If for some reason you are not certain that giving is its own reward, try doing it today and see what happens.  L.

Study Reference: Luke 6:38
Excerpt from: "A Good Measure."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: whitesource

​“For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”     1 Timothy 6:7-12


Andrew Carnegie was the second richest man in the US in 1901.  He was an industrialist /steel tycoon and the owner/ recipient of the largest corporate transaction in U.S. history (until the recent buyout of GM), when he sold, what is now known as U.S. Steel, for almost $500 million in gold bonds. In today's market, that $500 million transaction would give him a net worth of more than $275 billion dollars. He was considered a shrewd businessman who literally emerged from "rags to riches," educating himself in business, philosophy, and philanthropy.

The thing that fascinates me about Andrew Carnegie was his position on wealth.  He thought money was a worthless idol of the worst kind.  He wrote, "...The amassing of wealth is one of the worse species of idolatry.  No idol is more debasing than the worship of money …the man who dies rich, dies disgraced." 

A truly introspective quote from the man who commissioned the book Think & Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill; and endowed more than $200 million upon his death to charities that still continue to benefit today from his philanthropy. He believed you should spend the first 3rd of your life in the pursuit of knowledge, getting all the education you could afford; the second 3rd in the pursuit of money; and, the last 3rd of your life, giving it all to charity. -This is of course, assuming you live, he died at 83. 

While he was alive, he gave most of his money away to those interested in helping others. He built both Carnegie-Mellon University, and Carnegie Hall; and, he paid for and built all the public libraries in most of the United States.
What does this have to do with Jesus?   What does this have to do with being a Christian in a world steeped in subcultures and the pursuit of the all-mighty-dollar?  -​Nothing! 

Like Andrew Carnegie, we will all return to the dust we emerged from. The Bible doesn’t say that money is evil; it says, “...the love of money is the root of all evil.”  So, spend your time wisely; it’s always shorter than you think. Use your pursuits to help those who need it.   It’s true; we have to eat, and we deserve to live exquisitely; but, in our attempt to live well, let’s not forget to Love God, Have Faith, Laugh often, and Love much.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Timothy 6:7-12 
From:"The Pursuit of Happiness."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: el sembrador

"Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His Holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits; Who forgives all thine iniquities; Who heals all thy diseases; Who redeems thy life from destruction; Who crowns thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; Who satisfies thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.”    Psalm 103:1-5
 

Most of us know the verse “...by His stripes we are healed,”  found in the book of Isaiah chapter 53.  As Christians, it is the basis why we do not claim any ailment that comes into our life.  Our premise is that, as Jesus Christ was flogged, bloodied, hammered, and nailed to the cross at Calvary, He bore the brunt of every disease known to mankind.

Yet, in reality, many of the problems we experience with ailments and illnesses within our bodies come from our own lack of forgiving ourselves. The human mind, body, and spirit is so highly complex and integrated, that somehow, subconsciously, when we do not forgive ourselves, it is because we believe that we deserve whatever physical issue we are experiencing; not understanding that, if you are a professed Christian, Jesus has already forgiven you! –Now, you must forgive yourself! 

You literally have to accept the fact that God has already forgiven you for whatever it is that you believe you have done.  And yet, sometimes your own lack of unforgiveness is compounded by the external. –Other people who knew you prior to your decision to clean up your life may not have forgiven you.  –Or, those who knew you prior to your Confession of Faith may not believe in your sincerity.  Well, at some point, you will have to make a decision. Do you believe what God says about you; or, what others say about you?  –The proof of the one you believe will be your life.

Ask for forgiveness from those whom you have hurt or harmed. And yes, you will have to ask!  Once you have humbled yourself and asked in sincerity, it is up to them to forgive you for what you have done.  Keep in mind that, your request for the other person’s forgiveness is mostly for you. Their forgiveness of your deed is mostly for them.  And, your request for forgiveness is healing for you; while their acceptance to forgive you, is healing for them. 
Then, every day, look into a mirror and say, “My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has forgiven me; and today, by the Grace of God, I forgive myself.”  Do this daily until you can truly, truly believe it.  So finally, once and for all, you can let the healing begin.  L.

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verses in your journal.

Study Reference: Psalm 103:1-5
From: “Your Thoughts: The Healing of Forgiveness.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: Ombrella by La Tigre Bianca

"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me.  I am the Vine, ye are the branches; He that abides in Me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit; for without Me ye can do nothing.”    
John 15:4-5
 




I recently read, Secrets of The Vine by Bruce Wilkerson who, if you recall, also wrote NY Times bestseller, The Prayer of Jabez.  In Secrets of The Vine, he describes how a vinedresser cares for the vineyard; and, how it relates to Jesus and His fruits of the vine —us.  His explanation is quite different than the more traditional interpretation of John 15:2 which says:

"Every branch in Me that bears not fruit He takes away: and every branch that bears fruit, He purges it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” Most of us believe that the translation, "to bear fruit," relates to evangelism and the statement "He takes away" means something like, “if you persist in a life without showing evidence of your salvation, you lose it.” (Secrets of The Vine, p.32)  

So, understanding that our salvation is not defined through our works “…lest we boast,” (Ephesians 2:8-9);  Mr. Wilkerson began to research John 15:2 in the original Greek text and found that a more accurate translation of the words, “takes away”  in the original Greek, is the word "airo,"  which means to “lift up.” 

Here’s the reason why the change in interpretation is important.  Mr. Wilkerson met a vineyard owner prior to writing the book, and he explained how a vineyard is cared for by the vinedresser.  It turns out; the vinedresser walks up and down the vineyard aisles daily, checking on the development of the vines and the fruit.  As long as the vine is upright, held up by the trellis, it will bear fruit.  If it is growing down in the dust or dirt, it will not bear fruit; primarily because, the dirt impedes the growth of the leaves, thereby stifling the production of fruit.  

Here’s the beautiful part; when the vinedresser sees that a vine is growing along the ground in the dust, he lifts it up, cleans the dust off, and reattaches it to the trellis.  As long as the vine stays connected to the trellis and off the ground, it will ultimately bear fruit.   So, Mr. Wilkerson interprets Jesus as the vinedresser, intervening in our lives to lift us out of the dust; ultimately cleansing us; and then, reattaching us back to God, where He frees “…us of sin so we can live a more abundant life for His Glory.” (p.36) 

So, just imagine; Jesus in His Grace and Mercy walks up and down the aisles of humanity, seeking those of us who are down in the dirt, caught in the ravages of a life in sin. He then picks us up, cleanses us, and like those large, plump, succulent grapes of The Vine, He reattaches us back to Him. 

Hmmm….  I bet you never thought of yourself as a large, luscious, fruit of the vine!  L.   

Study Reference: John 15:1-16    
From:"The Vinedresser & The Vine."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: emaze

"Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands; thy walls are continually before Me.”   Isaiah 49:16 


The Bible chronicles the life of King David from the time he was a shepherd defeating Goliath, to his anointing as king of Israel; it also documents his countless exploits, and his eventual death. We know the episodes of his deepest despair and his most amazing triumphs. And, although God called him “...A man after Mine Own Heart,” (Acts 13:22) David was not allowed to administer the immense undertaking that would become The Tabernacle of God; a building worthy enough to hold the Ark of the Covenant. While we look at David’s life, it is easy for readers to see how the Spirit of God governed his life, both as a youth, and as an adult. We can easily understand those times when God was displeased with his actions; as in, his disobedience in taking a census. -An act which resulted in the death of 70,000 as his penalty; or, his affair with Bathsheba, which resulted in both the death of her husband and David’s child. 

For the most part, many of you are successful in your own right. You have worked hard, studied well, and persevered so that you can now reap the benefits of a decent life. Chances are, you have probably made your family proud of your accomplishments. So, why is it so easy to see the Hand of God in the minute details of David’s life and not in your own?  Why do we continually believe God is not watching, caring, and/or faithfully ordering "our" steps as we remain faithful to Him? 

Today's devotion is all about Thanksgiving—a sincere gratitude for ALL things in our lives, whether it has the appearance of bad or good, success or failure. Why? Because, sometimes the things that appear to be a blessing can become a burden; and, the things that appear to be a curse, can transform our spirits and become an enormous blessing in our lives. Let’s take the time to put things into perspective and thank God for His Love, Guidance, Grace, Mercy, and Forgiveness, because without it, it is impossible to fully live.  L. 

Study Reference: Isaiah 48:17, 49:1, 49:16, & Hebrew 10:35-36
From:"Thanksgiving-A Sense of Gratitude." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo credit: Husni Che Ngah