"Verily I say unto you, whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven; and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of them.”        Matthew 18:18-20


As Christians, we believe God will listen to the honest repentance and confession of sins from one person on behalf of a group. Does this mean that someone who has faith in God can supplicate to restore a nation, church family, organization, group, or person back to the blessing and favor of God? -Absolutely!

If you believe that one person can offer supplication to God on behalf of others, then what are YOU waiting for?
You may be just the one that God is waiting to hear from! Your personal confession and repentance for the sins of both yourself and others may be exactly what God needs to restore your family, nation, church, organization, or group back into God’s favor. Don’t bother to spend time looking around, waiting for others to step up to the plate. God’s Grace is never full.  It just might be YOU who God is waiting for!

Find the time today to pray for your family, friends, neighbors, and even that perfect stranger who is sitting right next to you on the bus; because, whether they know it or not, your prayer may be exactly what they need today.  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 18: 18-20
From: "Intercessors." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

 
​"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds; that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”            
Ephesians 6:18-20
 

Have you ever wanted to give up praying for someone who you thought was lost? —Maybe for someone who would never make it into God's house, much less His Kingdom?  One day, after our usual after church luncheon, we sat at the dining table having a very lively discussion concerning our Pastor's sermon on "Vision." 

​As the discussion continued, there was a knock at the door.  When our host opened the door, a young woman with a beaming smile asked, "Can I speak to you for a moment?"   Thinking that she might know the young woman’s family, our host said, "Sure, come in! "  

After the young woman came into the house, the entire group greeted her. When she saw the group seated at the table, she turned smiling to our host and said, "Are you Christians?"   Our host, smiling back said, "—Yes!"  The young woman beamed even wider and said, "So am I!  --I go to the new church up the street, but I couldn't sit in there any longer knowing that there are so many people outside the church who need to know about Jesus. So a group of us decided to walk door-to-door instead of going to our afternoon youth meeting." 

We continued speaking with this young woman as she gave her testimony regarding how she came to know Jesus Christ. Let's just say, although she was the product of a Christian home, for years, she was the intent focus of her mother's prayers and bouts of fasting.  Surprisingly,  it turns out that our host knew her mother, although she had never met our young visitor. As she continued to speak, we realized that we all knew her brother, an amazing young pastor. 

This young woman, the product of her mother's prayers, pleas, and God’s amazing Grace, was the one  that God chose to place an overwhelming Spirit to leave the confines of the pews, to personally go out into the neighborhood, and tell others about Christ. 

Don’t give up on those you pray for; maintain an eternal view of any and all circumstances that you may be faced with. The passion God has for your life and the lives of those you pray for is no comparison to a circumstance.  
--So, go ahead, Pray for them again!  L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:18-20   
From: "A Knock At The Door."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo:  Pinterest

“Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shall escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether hold thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed; and who knows whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?          Esther 4:13-14


The story of Esther is a fascinating story!  When you have some time, read the entire book for yourself.  The story is really about conquering anxiety and releasing fear to accomplish God's desire for your life. The annual Jewish celebration of Purim is actually based on this historical / biblical event.

When we read the story of Esther, most of us look at her self-sacrifice and heroism; however, today let's take a look at Mordecai, the adult cousin, who became her guardian and mentor. It was a custom in all communities around the world to take the responsibility of raising a family member's child/ children if they became orphans, or if their parents simply could not care for them. In some cases, if a wealthy member of the family or community were childless, someone would send their own child to them to raise as their own.  It was rare that a couple went without having children, whether they were biological or not.  Today we look at people like Madonna and Angelina Jolie, and are perplexed at their decision to adopt children from the ravages of poverty.  Esther’s cousin Mordecai, whom she referred to as her uncle must have been a man with a good heart.  He not only agreed to raise Esther as his own child, he gave her the principles that would nurture a love for God, ultimately leading her to the kind of heroism that would save an entire nation. He taught her self-reliance, respect, bravery, and altruism. He thought she was beautiful, and because he thought so, and told her so, she believed him.  Through his influence and guidance she would follow the path God designed for her life.

Each one of us has the ability to shape the lives of the children directly in our lives or somewhere around us. Many of us can search our past to find more than one adult, other than our parents, who shaped and nurtured our minds, talents, and gifts.  They taught us to cast out fear, so that we could become the person we are today.  We have to look around us and nurture the children who will one day become our guardians.  As is the circle of life, one day they will return the favor by fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives, and you never know—they too might save a nation!  L.  

Study Reference: Esther 4:11-16 
From: "Saving A Nation."  In The Master's Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo; overflow

“But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in Truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth.”   John 4:23-24

​
Jesus Himself uttered today’s verse to the woman He met at the well in Samaria after she explained “where” she worshiped  God. Yet instead, in His response He explains, what “type” of worship God truly requires of us.
 
Some of us go to church out of rote; we simply have kept the tradition of going week after week, because it was fostered by our parents and grandparents. So, we walk in broken and unfulfilled, and we walk out cloaked the very same way. We utter pleasantries, hear the Word, then leave; and, although God may speak directly into our lives while there, we enact no change. So, what’s the point?   If you are coming out the same way that you went in, with no change to your spirit or your truth, what is really the point?
 
In the case of the Samaritan woman at the well, God spoke directly into her life. The truth of her life was that she felt spiritually unfulfilled, ostracized, and completely unworthy. This was her truth. God already knew it; and, this truth is what He needed for her to bring to the altar. And yet, she came day after day to the wellspring thirsty and unfulfilled; worse yet, leaving God in the very same state, thirsty and unfulfilled in reference to her life.
 
The idea of worship in Spirit and in Truth is exactly what it says.  It is the relinquishing of your Spirit to God, where you bring the issues of your existence to the altar for purging.  It means bringing the truth about your feelings, fears, hopes, dreams, desires, and aches to the altar. It means that, if you walked in with a pending issue, that issue is left at the altar when you leave. We are in the midst of a new year; do you still want to do the same old thing?  Do you leave Jesus at the well, thirsty for the utterance of your truth, unfulfilled with the relinquishing of your spirit?  Or, are you really ready to make the necessary changes to be fully quenched in Spirit and in Truth?  Like all things pertaining to God, it comes down to one decision. Do you allow Him to lead your life or not?   The decision is yours alone.
There really is no middle ground –it is either yes, or no.  L.
 
Study Reference: John 4:4-32, John 4:23-24, James 5:12
From: “In Spirit and In Truth.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
Photo credit: Warren Keelan

 "Concerning the works of men, by the Word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Hold up my goings in Thy Paths, that my footsteps slip not.”    Psalm 17:4-5  


Sometimes, in order to move on, we will have to leave something behind.  Some of those things will be left behind of our own free will; while others will be left behind reluctantly.  Like Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife, sometimes we simply have to chart a course that allows us to flee from the oncoming path of the destroyer; rather than, trying to exhaust the limits of our willpower.  The longer we stay, the more difficult it is to leave things behind.  In Joseph’s case, he left his garments behind throughout each transition of his life, simply to remain on God’s Path.

First, he had to relinquish his childhood coat-of-many-colors to his brothers. This forced  him to reconsider his interpretation of his childhood dream, and to begin the first step of the journey that God planned for his life. His future seemed bleak. –And yet, it moved him to Potiphar’s house; the place where he would discover his gift for  managing large agricultural fields, accounting records, financial concerns, and personnel.   

Then, he had to relinquish his managerial robe to Potiphar’s wife.  –This sent him to the royal prison, teaching him yet another level of understanding about his life.  –How to have patience, perseverance, and reliance on God.

Then, he exchanged his prison uniform for a borrowed royal court robe. A robe  that was given to him so that he could stand presentable before the king.  This would teach him that sometimes, when God gives us the opportunity to shine, it may not come at the most opportune moment; and, we may not even be prepared for it. –But, try anyway; because, God will surprise you!  

You know the rest of the story. In the end, Joseph literally exchanged his borrowed court garments for the fine linen robe of the King.  In each leg of Joseph’s journey, he learned the necessary skills that he would need to ultimately undertake the vast scope of God’s plan.

Like the relinquishment of Joseph’s garments, when we remain on God’s Path, no matter how far off the desired terrain it may be, we will always benefit in regard to those things left behind for the sake of God’s Word. So, do not be afraid if the path seems bleak; or, if you have left behind your favorite job; or even, if you feel trapped, patiently awaiting an opportunity.  Know that if you have given up something for God, it will be restored far beyond your belief.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 17:4-5
From: "Your Thoughts: "Go Ahead, Let It Go!."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wordpress

​"And Joseph’s master took him, and put him into the prison, a place where the king’s prisoners were bound; and he was there in the prison. But the Lord was with Joseph, and showed him Mercy, and gave him Favor in the sight of the keeper of the prison. And the keeper of the prison committed to Joseph’s hand all the prisoners that were in the prison; and whatsoever they did there, he was the doer of it.  …The Lord was with him, and that which he did, the Lord made it to prosper”   Genesis 39:20-23


What happens when you have done everything right and still wrongfully accused of an unlawful act; or, punished for something you did not do; or, fired for doing the right thing? —Or, not believed when you are clearly telling the truth? Does this mean that it occurred because the Blessing of God has disappeared from your life? No, not if you are walking in a path of righteousness. In the previous Daily entitled, Blessings Upon You, we read how God’s Blessing was with Joseph, although he was a slave in his master’s house. 

In the passage above, Joseph is wrongfully accused by Potiphar’s wife of an attempted rape. Unfortunately, even if Potiphar did not believe his wife, his jealousy and knowledge of his wife's seduction of Joseph would have prohibited him from once again relinquishing the reins of his household to Joseph. Feeling betrayed, confused, and angry, he throws Joseph in prison. However, not just any prison—the royal prison. Even by today’s standards, there is regular prison, with its varied population of all sorts of prisoners, and there are federal prisons. White-collar prisons so exclusive, they have been nicknamed, Club Fed, due to the many amenities available to those incarcerated. Understandably, we know the Favor of God is still with Joseph, because, instead of going to the typical Hebrew slave prison, he is sent to the royal prison. A prison, where he would eventually meet a key advisor to the king; someone who would be pivotal to the prophesied Blessing God planned for his life from the day of his birth. 

What’s interesting is, while in prison, even the royal prison warden recognized the blessing on Joseph’s life. So much so, he placed Joseph in charge of the other prisoners. —​Huh? —​Wasn’t Joseph himself a prisoner?

The point is, when you are Blessed by God, nothing can inhibit His Blessing, only you. Even when everything seems unimaginably unfair, and depressingly bleak; if you can remember to thank God for keeping you sane through the trials, and to praise Him for His Favor in bringing you through it while you are still in the midst of it; then, like Joseph, you will see your victory and the continual Blessing of God’s Favor in your life. L. 

Study Reference: Genesis 39:7-23
From: "Blessings, Even in Adversity." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Isac Goulart

"And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And ...the Lord Blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake and the Blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.”         Genesis 39:2-5

 
Did you know that by the very nature of being one of God’s chosen that you are blessed?  Not only are you blessed, but everything under your authority is blessed.  It is not only limited to your personal household; it goes wherever you are. The blessing goes with you like an unseen aura that is spiritually visible by all.  It is in your surroundings, job, company, accounts, friends, and yes, even your boss will be blessed simply because you are there.  As you walk in the path of righteousness, under submission to Jesus Christ, your blessing encompasses all you do—your entire existence. 

It is even more important for you to know that your blessing is seen by others. You may not feel it, or even acknowledge it, but it is prevalent all around you.  If you are a physician, your patients and practice will be blessed.  If you are a teacher, your students will be blessed.  If you are an executive, your business will be blessed.  If you are a janitor, the very floors you mop and clean will be blessed simply because you are the one taking care of it.    

You may not like the idea of others around you toggling your blessing; however, it cannot be stopped, it is by nature, the fulfillment of the receipt of the blessing.   It radiates from you to those things that are important to you.  If God has chosen to bless you, then the people or things you put energy towards will also be extraordinarily blessed. 

When Potiphar, the Egyptian, bought Joseph from the Ishmaelites, he was simply purchasing a new slave for his household.  But, everything that Joseph touched became successful. Potiphar noticed that when he placed Joseph in charge of the fields, they began to flourish abundantly. And, when he promoted him to manage the transactions of his household, they too became exceedingly prosperous. By the time he placed Joseph in charge of everything, Potiphar was doing so well, he did not know the extremes of his own wealth.  Imagine, even his wife believed she was more desirable because of Joseph’s attention.  She felt desirable enough to proposition Joseph to her private chambers, in order to tempt him into an illicit affair. -He refused and ran. 

Therein lies the caveat to maintaining your blessing, temptation. Falling prey to temptation is by far a surefire way of corrupting your blessing. We forget that, no matter how hard we appear to be working, or how skilled we are at what we are doing, it is the blessing, and our respect and honor of God fulfilling the blessing that creates success.  

Unfortunately, we have a weakness—our ego.  When we begin to acknowledge our ego or ourselves as the architect of our success, it wanes.  Joseph did not fall for the temptation of Potiphar’s wife, because he understood through whom his life was being blessed.  Joseph could have accepted her advances; after all, his master did place him in charge of everything under his household. Keeping Potiphar’s wife happy could have been part of the plan; she probably would have kept the secret.  However, Joseph understood his sin would be against God, and it would corrupt his destiny and God’s blessings in his life.   

What about you?  Are you thanking God for your success; or, are you prone to believe your success comes from your own self?  Remember, God has granted your blessing as one of His chosen; however, you have not received the blessing for yourself only.  Like Joseph, whether your blessings are words, work, wealth, or wisdom —eventually, it must be shared.  L. 

Study Reference: Genesis 39:1-23
From: "Blessings Upon You." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Jared Erondu

 
“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.  And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.”      
​1 Corinthians 12:4-7 


​It can be difficult for some people to truly understand the diversity of gifts concept; yet, simply put, every single person in a church is significant, not just for their talents or gifts, but also for their diversity of character. Whether it is a young child with a penny, or an Oprah-like person with billions, each person is there to teach us a lesson.  For example, the child with the penny can teach us humility; while the person with billions can teach us perseverance, generosity, or even frugality. 
The diversity of characters, personalities, and gifts, within the church, create a microcosm of society and teaches us how to evolve spiritually given the diversity within the body of Christ. 

Does this mean we are going to have some people who are a little nutty?-Yes!  A little snobbish?-Yes!  A little outlandish? 
-Yes!  Will there be some serious bible-thumping holy-rollers? -Yes!    And, what about those who barely toe-the-line. -Oh Yes!   However, all are seeking a closer walk with God in their own way.  The Bible says, "every man must bear his own burden..."  as he or she seeks a personal walk and commitment to God. 

The issue is not with the cast of diverse characters; the issue is how you react and interact with them. And, although we are all working towards the same end-goal, your interactions with the entire cast of characters will determine your own level of growth within the body of Christ.  Remember, Jesus himself found a motley crew of diverse characters that He dubbed the Twelve Disciples. Why would the personalities in your church be any different than those He took the time to select as His beloved followers?  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7   
From;"Gifts."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

 
"And God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth;” And it was so. ...And God saw that it was good.”      
​Genesis 1:11-12
 

All life is a seed, even you. 
It is astonishing how one single seed can reap so much fruit. What's even more fascinating is that, the fruit from one seed, planted by a farmer in another part of the world, winds up traveling thousands of miles across oceans, just to feed us.  Mangoes from Mexico, kiwis from Australia, bananas from Guatemala, star apples from Costa Rica, pitted dates from Morocco, or figs from Turkey.  If you stop for a moment to acknowledge that a farmer in some distant town or country tilled the land just so that you could have a piece of fruit or some other sustenance, it can be truly overwhelming.

The Bible uses the term “seed” as a metaphor for all kinds of biblical concepts. It can be an actual seed for planting; or, it can be a thought, a beginning, a lesson, an idea, a child, even currency.  Yet, the most fascinating is that, before God completed the creation of the world, He placed seeds in every living thing to recreate itself.  Even the Word of God is a seed.  It places a thought within us, and with it we gain the ability to blossom beyond our current circumstances.  Oftentimes, the thought is internalized so deeply, it transforms us beyond recognition.  God also gave each of us the seed to recreate human life. Whether it’s biological or with the manifestation of our words, we are laden with seeds. And, while we may consciously withhold ourselves from the active transmission of our biological seeds, our words can be strewn with the flick of our tongue; words carried far and wide by the winds of life, without regard to their effect. These tiny unseen seeds have the power to grant life or death, war or peace, growth or decay, lethal criticism or joyous praise. 

Whether you acknowledge it or not, you continuously plant seeds every minute of every day.  It can be a simple “thank you,” a kind gesture, or a word of encouragement sown so deeply it manifests for years to come.  Or, it could be a curse, an obscene gesture, or a snide remark sown so rudely it manifests immediately, creating destruction and chaos as it travels far into someone's unforeseen future. 

All of life is a seed, even your words. The question is, when your seeds finally take root in the many people they were planted in, what will we reap? Will it continue as sustenance, feeding others far across oceans, or will it spawn continuous and utter destruction?   L.

Study Reference: Genesis 1:11-12, Proverbs 18-20-21
From: "Seeds." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Warren M/ Underwater Baby series by Seth Casteel

 "…I have glorified Thee on the earth; I have finished the work which Thou gave Me to do. And now, O Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the Glory which I had with Thee before the world was…”    
John 17:4-5


​God’s Love is truly everlasting. Jesus did not come to teach, heal and save only a few people, He came for everyone. And yes, even those who you believe don’t stand a chance in “&@#!.”  He left them here for you and I to speak to, interact with, pray for, and finally, lead to Him.  We know that Jesus could have cured every person on the planet while He walked on this earth; instead, He healed those who asked for it, ached for it and believed He could do it. He gave those with the greatest faith what they needed.

Your faith and belief are your most powerful assets in this world.  And, if you do not nurture it, and use it, it dissipates. Why?  Because, there is so much opposition to it; even internally, as believers, we can begin the process of casting doubt.  Doubt starts out simple enough; it is just a small thought that something you really believe is possible—simply is not possible. Then it begins to fully manifest, adding even more questions. Until finally, you give up.
By this time, you really cannot believe in the possibility of your own faith; it was simply just "too good" to be true. Ordinarily, things that are too good to be true, actually are. But with God, all things are already too good to be true! That’s the beauty of God.

Prior to the betrayal by Judas Iscariot, Jesus prayed to The Father for those He was to leave behind. 

“I pray not that Thou should take them out of the world, but that Thou should keep them from evil."   John 17:15 

We must interact with those that are in the world to teach and lead them to Jesus Christ, fulfilling His desire that all who belong to Him be sanctified unto Him. There will be times when we are not prepared to go against the temptations of evil, or those who appear lost; because, we are simply not ready within ourselves to do so. But, when you believe you are ready, you must go. It will strengthen your faith and your belief. And, simply said, it is our Divine Directive from God.  L.

Study Reference: John 16:1-33 & 17:1-26
Excerpt From: "The Divine Directive."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

 
"And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.”    
Isaiah 8:15
 
 
It is pretty easy to imagine something broken; broken things are everywhere. Some things break because they slip or fall; some things break from being mishandled or abused; while others break because they have an inherent flaw. Then there are things that break simply because of a separation. Others break from strain, disturbance, shock, or a fatal blow.  The human mind, body, and spirit is no different. We can break for all the same reasons.
 
Recently, I viewed several artifacts that were created using an ancient Japanese method called Kintsugi. It is the skill of repairing broken pieces. Ordinarily, most restorers of broken things attempt to camouflage any new repairs so that onlookers cannot see any evidence of the break. Yet, in Kintsugi, artisans mend broken pieces by inserting 14k gold powder to restore missing sections, often enhancing the value of the artifact. When the repair is complete, the broken item is not only more valuable than it was prior to its break, it is considered even more beautiful.
 
Looking at all the Kintsugi artifacts, reminded me of how most Believers come to God. We come searching for someone with the ability to fully restore our broken pieces; we come to Him, cracked, chipped, misused, abused, injured, wounded, fractured; or, completely broken, trying to find –The Ultimate Repairer of our breach.  
 
As the Ultimate Kintsugi Master, God takes all our broken pieces; even the ones that cannot be found by anyone else, and with the solid gold bonding of His Love, Grace, Mercy, and Forgiveness; He mends our tears, covers our flaws, and repairs our broken fragments; so that, when others see us, they no longer see the cracks, chips, ruptures, or breaks; they can only see that we are much more beautiful than we were before.
 
Like a precious Kintsugi artifact, you will transform after your repair; you will take on a much more organic beauty. 
–Beauty that embraces the many imperfections found when opening your heart and living real life. –A life, where you embrace a deeper understanding that, humanity is inherently broken; perfection belongs only to God. So, I learned a new word to describe our Creator, –Kintsugi; The Repairer of the broken.  L.
 
Study Reference: Isaiah 8:15
From: “The Repairer of The Broken.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Billie Bond, sculptor

   "..Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seek not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails; but whether there be prophecies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease, whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part;  But when that which is Perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I also am known. And now abide Faith, Hope, and Love, these three; but the greatest of these is Love.”     1 Corinthians 13:4-13 


Without Love, there is nothing …There is nothing, without Love.     

I am convinced that pure Love conquers all, heals all, prevents all, and saves all.  It knows all, discerns all, creates all, perceives all, teaches all, finds all, reveals all, identifies all, and so on.  It is the remedy for everything, and without it, there is nothing and nothingness.  It is the reason we believe God is Love.  Nothing can exist without it.  —No human, animal, vegetable, flora, fauna, or fish.  It is not only God’s Love for us, or our love for Him; it is the encompassing and extension of our love to others.  As God’s Ultimate Gift, it is the greatest thing He imparted to us, and it continues to keep us in accord with Him, whether we believe or not. 

As humanity, we cannot function without it. When we find it missing at the youngest stages of life, it manifests as wicked pathologies and dysfunctions that disable future adults from the basics of a common humanity most of us take for granted.  And, if it is still not discovered into adulthood, the mind finds ways of creating “love,” often, to the destruction of itself or others. 

We search for it,—yearn for it, and eagerly find ways of capturing even the most minuscule traces of it in others.  We will give up our lives for it; and, we will save the lives of others because of it. It heals our hearts and replenishes our souls.  What else could it be, but from God?  It is not physical love, but it can be.  It is not romantic love, but it can be. It is a thing so massive, both its depth and breadth is unimaginable. And yet, even the most minuscule unseen bit, once offered, can propel us to greatness.  Imagine.  ...It lives long after we have died and continues to work long after we have lived.  What else could it be, but of God. 

In this new year why not move your life in the direction of finding out more about it?  Not to garner more of God’s Gift from others to yourself, but to offer more of it to others—for yourself.

Change to Love—you’ll change your life. 
                   Change your life —​You will change the world.  L. 

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:4-13  *(The Gideon King James Bible) 
From: "Love." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock 

 
​"He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” 
Psalm 147:3
 
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Have you ever had to help someone go through the healing process of mending a broken heart?  Maybe the person with the broken heart was you, or someone you loved. 
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Although love is by far, the most joyful thing we crave as human beings, it can also be the most painful. It is both remarkable and perplexing how something that can so easily empower us to be our best selves, could also cause us to sink to our lowest depths. —​What can possibly heal a broken heart? 

Physicians tell us, most wounds to the body can be repaired; some through natural healing, and others through surgical intervention. However, our heart is different; it is our center, the part that needs the most protection from those who may attempt to destroy us. So, it is important to remember, if we are damaged by a direct hit to the heart, it can be a fatal blow, both physically and figuratively. 

In Proverbs 4:23 the Bible says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” When we choose to offer our heart to someone, that person needs to handle it gently, carefully, with truth, respect, and love. It is our most vulnerable place, the epicenter of our mind, body, and spirit. When it is damaged, it is difficult to repair both physically and mentally. Does this mean you should not freely love with your whole heart?  On the contrary, when you give or receive love, you are your most powerful self. However, guard your whole heart diligently, because therein also lies your weakness.  Know to whom you are offering one of your most precious gifts—your love. 

Nevertheless, just in case you have done all of this and somehow you still end up with a broken heart, know that God understands the depth of your pain and will remain close to you until you are healed. God promises in Psalm 34 that, He “... is near unto them that are of a broken heart, and saves those of a broken spirit.” And, in today’s verse, we are reminded that “…He heals the broken hearted and binds their wounds.”  So...
What can possibly heal a broken heart?  —God’s love!   L.
​
Study Reference: Psalm 147:3, Psalm 34:18, Proverbs 4:23
 From: "A Broken Heart."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: science-all

  "I Am My Beloved’s, and My Beloved is Mine…”        Song of Solomon 6:3  


Most people want to belong to something or someone; it is rare to find someone who truly wants to be completely alone. We often say it; and yet, we rarely mean it. Even when it appears that we really want to be alone, it is only because we cannot be with the specific person we ideally want to be with.  So, we make the decision to be alone, because, having no one is better than just anyone. We long to find the ultimate person whom we can share our hearts with, so we spend a considerable amount of time searching for the right one; or, the right thing that will ultimately make us feel as if we belong to something greater than ourselves. –That’s what Love does to us; it makes us feel greater than ourselves.  It broadens the vantage point of who we believe we are, transcending the highest point of our life to place us on the acme of our own personal mountain.

The problem with this feeling, in our current culture, is that, it rarely lasts. Eventually, we will discover something about our beloved that betrays how we feel, or vice versa.  We eventually discover our beloved’s weakness or flaw. It is that thing we learn about our beloved that can eventually be used as ammunition against them to cause them conscious pain when they are the most vulnerable. We also have a flaw. –It is that tender spot that somehow cannot be touched by others. –That broken thing.  Some of us have more than one; some of us have a battalion.  It’s that thing most of us want to hide about ourselves; that "thing" that we believe no one will find acceptable.   Yet, the truth is, our flaw is the very thing that attracts our soul mate into our lives. 

Our instinct is to find the one whose weakness or flaw is adorable to us and vice versa. A weakness or flaw that we not only can live with; but, that we truly believe is acceptable and dismissive. A flaw that others see as a problem for them to love, yet, one that we find enhances our love.  It is like having your own personal handicap that everyone notices, except one person.  Somehow that noticeably, obvious flaw, is unnoticeable to them; he or she only sees you.  This Love is our quest; it is us seeking God's Gift to humanity.

When we know of God, of His Son Jesus Christ, we are accepted in spite of our flaws.  Our lack of perfection is the very thing that He seeks out.  It is the very reason He sent a part of Himself to the cross.  Our flaws, although noticeable to Him, are irrelevant.  He understands our vulnerabilities and weaknesses –and accepts us anyway. 

Our love can waver like the tides of the ocean; but, God’s Love is everlasting.  It does not stray, does not falter.  It can never fade, leave, or dissolve.  It is here forever.  You are God's Beloved. You are the very reason He sent Jesus to the Cross. He understands your flaws and weaknesses, He calls it–humanity.  There is nothing in your past, present, or future that, in coming to God in repentance, will not be forgiven. –Nothing!     L. 
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Study Reference: Song of Solomon 
From: "Be-Loved." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: shutterstock 

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”  
​Ephesians 6:12  

 
In an effort to love one another, we sometimes damage each other instead. So eventually, at some point, someone will  hurt you. Sometimes, it is unplanned but purposeful; and, sometimes it is completely accidental. Then there are times, when the pain is easily dismissed; and, there are other times when it is not, making forgiveness difficult. Whether or not we recover is the issue.  

Sometimes we can almost see  directly into the heart of the other person and because of their  humility, forgiveness comes easily.  And then, there are times when our love for the other person supersedes the pain we feel, and again, forgiveness comes easily. 

Yet, more prevalent are those times when fierce defiance compels us to plant our feet in the ground, requiring that we stand firmly in the cement of unforgiveness. I don't know about you, but for me, forgiveness is one of the most difficult aspects of being a Christian. Sometimes I believe I can forgive someone for the pain they have caused, yet, I find I cannot bring myself to even utter the simple phrase, "Good Morning."  

My good friend Elliott Lamour once said to me: 
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“You have to really understand Ephesians 6:12.  When you understand this, you will understand that sometimes you will say something, and the other person will actually hear something completely different, causing complete confusion, bitterness, resentment, and war. The more you understand this, the easier it will be to forgive someone.
​-Our struggle is not against people, it is against principalities.”  

These words are true indeed. So, with this in mind, let’s make a conscious effort to work on forgiving each other, especially those people we believe have purposefully damaged us. But, I can tell you from experience; it is much easier said, than done.  -But, do it anyway.  L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:10-13
From: "Damaged."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: istock  ​​

 
“Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed; for the Lord thy God is with thee whither so ever thou goest.”   
Joshua 1:9


What if we really understood the command from God to be strong and of good courage? What exactly is “good courage” anyway? How many different kinds of courageousness are there? At first thought, most people believe there is really only one type of courage —​bravery. So, I looked up the word in the dictionary and found that there are several definitions.

The definitions for courage are: bravery, nerve, pluck, valor, daring, audacity, mettle, resolution, guts. There is also: gallantry, heroism, fearlessness, boldness, spirit, lionheartedness, intrepidness, and audacious.  And, this is only from one dictionary.  As you can see, not all courage is good courage. Some acts of courageousness are in regards to our own ego; i.e. pluck, boldness, daring, nerve, guts. Some acts of courage are due to showmanship, such as: gallantry, lionheartedness, audaciousness.

Then there are the other acts of courage; by definition, the ones that are probably the closest to what I believe God may have meant; intrepidness, bravery, fearlessness, resolute. This kind is only achieved without thinking of yourself; and, without an awareness of self.  It is the kind of courage that comes through the Holy Spirit aiding you to act in a manner unbefitting the distinctly self-centered, self-preserving, egotistical behavior normally characteristic of humanity.  It is the type of courage that forces perseverance; the kind you find when you believe you cannot go any farther, yet somehow, you receive the extra strength needed to continue.

Reading through all those definitions I still wondered about the true meaning of, “good courage.” Then, I realized that the precise definition of good courage is found directly in the verse.  It means to be strong (have strength), not afraid (fearless), and without dismay (resolute). —With these words in place, let’s put together a wonderful definition for being of good courage: 
To be fearless and resolute, living with the strength of knowledge that God is with you wherever you go! —So, today and always; “Be of Good Courage!” L.
​
Study Reference: Joshua 1:9
From:"Good Courage." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Dave Allen

 
​"If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”  
John 15:7
 


​By nature I am an optimist; I really believe just about anything is possible!
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God has brought me through too many things for me to believe anything else. I am fascinated every time I board an airplane, recalling the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, the two brothers who, through their bicycle engineering skills, developed the first airplane to actually take flight in the United States. Because of their quest, millions fly daily in planes weighing more than 100 tons. If you ever stop and really think about the concept of one hundred tons easily and swiftly zipping through the air, it becomes increasingly simple to dismiss the notion of an "impossible task."   There's more. 

What about your cell phone, Internet, flat screen television, and all those wireless devices, quietly emitting signals, so communication can be instantaneous; it was not that long ago that these things did not exist.  In medicine, we can look at the breakthroughs in laser eye surgery, where almost instantaneously, the eye heals itself, allowing the patient to miraculously see without glasses. Not to mention, the human body itself; a vessel God designed so exquisitely that even large quantities of poisons have to work really hard just to kill us. The Bible has already told us, there are no impossible tasks.  All things are possible through God. (Matthew 19:26)

All things are possible through God, was the thought I had after reading Mark 6:37.  It is where the disciples come to Jesus, asking Him to send the five-thousand people, who had been rapt by His teachings all day, into the villages to buy something to eat.  Jesus responds by telling His disciples, “Give ye them to eat.”  
It is possible that the disciples, even after being with Jesus for some time, didn't really understand that He wanted them to believe in the power of God as He did. You can’t really blame them for not understanding that they, through their belief in God, could feed the 5000 people who had followed them and stayed to hear the teachings of Jesus. 

If it were to happen today, even the most die-hard Christian optimist would still send the multitudes into town to feed themselves.  Why would we really believe we have the power to transform the lives of 5000 people? -To actually feed them?   I believe the notion of “feeding” is key. When Jesus was admonishing Peter, He asked, “Lovest thou Me?”   When Peter replied, Jesus charged him by saying “Feed My sheep.” (John 21:15-17)   In our prayers we say, “Our Father which art in heaven ...give us this day our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:9-11)

To feed someone is a metaphor for teaching, training, and/or mentoring, so they can be nourished, full and satisfied.  Whether you are getting your Daily Bread through a Bible study class, church sermons, or, reading the Bible on your own under the guidance of the Holy Spirit; as a Christian, Jesus expects for you to be fed and to feed others.  He expects for you to know that no task is impossible if you believe in Him.  
Impossibility is not a word for God; it should not be a word for you!   L. 

Study Reference: John 15:5-7
From: "Believing In The Impossible." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock

"Let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.”
Matthew 5:16


As Christians, there are words, Bible verses, psalms, personal prayers, and benedictions we profess every time we attend church services. There are songs and hymns we sing, that literally “shout a battle cry,” announcing to all listening that we have relinquished our love and life to God Almighty.  And yet, if you didn't tell anyone that you were a Christian, would they be able to tell from your current life?  You know. —The life you live when you are away from your church.  Could they tell by the way you treat others or interact with strangers?  What about the way you conduct yourself at work?   Is God's excellence shown forth in your daily routine or is it lacking?

Today’s verse states that your Light should shine before men so that all those who interact with you may see God at work in your life.

So, if you maintain a grumbling spirit and tend to be pessimistic in every aspect of your life, yet you really believe that you are a beloved child of the Most High God; then, remember this.  Sometimes, the only reflection of God that another person may ever see —is YOU.   And, unbeknownst to you, many times, it will be your only opportunity to introduce them to God’s Love, Mercy, Grace, and Forgiveness.  This has nothing to do with “preaching” or even sharing the Gospel of Jesus.  It has to do with your life actually exhibiting what you profess.

Our life is our own personal and reasonable sacrifice to God. It exhibits everything that we believe we "know" or have learned about Him.  Once we believe that we are Children of the Most High God, it tempers how we act and what we say.  It tempers the things we do and the things we don't.  It controls the quality of what we expect from life, from ourselves, and from others. —It even reflects what we expect from God.

Yes, your life and personal Light must glorify God; it ultimately emits a Light frequency that quietly speaks volumes about your true feelings concerning His omnipotence over your life.  It unconsciously reflects your understanding of God’s Love in your life —whether you fully acknowledge it or not.

The question prompted by today’s verse is a highly personal one; it asks you to truly reflect on your demeanor and outlook as viewed through the eyes of others.  —​Are you a beacon of God’s Light in this world, or are you barely, a dimly lit spark?  L. 

Study Reference: John 17:4, Matthew 5:14-16
From: " Your Thoughts: Set Apart II” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Magiczone ​

   
"Thou was perfect in thy ways from the day that thou was   created, till iniquity was found in thee.”  Ezekiel 28:15
 

There’s nothing wrong with being unsure of yourself; in most instances, insecurity compels us to practice in the areas where we are the most insecure.
For instance, if you have a fear of speaking in public, you can take public speaking classes at  Toastmasters International, a group known for aiding others with the same insecurity.  The same thing goes for singing, dancing, acting, cooking, etc.; and, just about anything else you would like to become adept in.  The more you practice, the better you will become. 

Now’s here’s the catch.  Chances are, even if you become good enough to be more secure than you were when you started, the craft you are practicing will probably not be your gift. It will not be the thing most people call your “God-given” talent.  There will always be someone better who can easily do, in his or her sleep, what you must work excruciatingly hard at, just to be mediocre.  It’s their talent, not yours.  Often, people who are extremely gifted at one thing tend to be gifted in other areas. They learn to appreciate a level of excellence in whatever task they undertake.  They also have no difficulty in appreciating the exceptional talents and gifts of others.  If you are one of those people, you will recognize yourself in the statement. However, when insecurity turns evil it becomes envy; and, this is where the tables turn. There are those who, in their insecurity, despise the talents and gifts of those who tend to be better at using their gifts.  Insecurity travels through all levels of life, from childhood to the workplace; from the workplace to church; from church to playtime on the basketball court.  It is not something new; it began with Lucifer, the most vocally gifted and beautifully stunning of all angels. 

God gave Lucifer multiple gifts; in addition to being one of the most beautiful angels in Heaven, his angelic skin was covered in every gem imaginable and unimaginable by man.  The Bible says, his voice was a combination of tabrets (drums) and pipes. So, we can only imagine when he came into God’s presence to sing, his gem-covered skin shone like the morning sun.  When he sang, his voice not only chimed in the eight-octaves of the most magnificent organ you’ve ever heard, it had its own back-beat to boot!   Yet somehow, he still wanted more!  
In Isaiah 14:13-14, the Bible says,

“For thou has said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the Most High.”

God gave him extraordinary gifts; however, being the most beautiful angel with an orchestral sound emanating from his throat was not enough -he wanted to be God! 

When we envy others for the gifts God bestowed on them, we negate our own gifts.  We become the lone man in the parable of the talents who buried his talent because he was too busy grumbling about receiving only one.  If you are insecure about your talent, learn from the best; practice the art until you are satisfied with your level of success.  But, do not fall prey to what I prefer to call, The Lucifer Syndrome, allowing your insecurity to lead you into envying others for their gifts; it will only negate your own blessed gifts, and lead you to destruction.  -Instead, why not simply praise God for just being You!   L.   

Study Reference: Ezekiel 28:13-19, Matthew 25:14-30  
From;"The Lucifer Syndrome."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
Photo credit: pinterest