"...But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, says the LORD, I will put My law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be My people.  And they shall teach no more every man his neighbor, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD; for they shall all know Me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, says the LORD; for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.”   
Jeremiah 31:32-34

 
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There is a reason that Jesus says, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there Am I in the midst of them."  (Matthew 18:20)  It is the praying people of God who form a church; and, it is people who invoke God's presence with their prayers, supplications, and submittal to God's will.  We have all seen empty boarded up churches in complete disarray across our nation; God is not sitting in those churches waiting for people to show up. We have also seen storefront churches with only 20 people praising and worshiping, no matter what some of us may think about their choice of venue, God is in the midst of them.  It is the people who invoke the presence of God. 

Of course, the problem in the church is also the people.  We bring our egos, issues, past experiences, pretense, and fear with us when we gather together. Sometimes not completely understanding that those are the very things we need to leave at the door of the church before we enter.  Our church is supposed to be a refuge, a place where we gather to invoke God's presence.  Not because we cannot invoke God's presence in the park, or in our homes, or in our closet, but because, we have set aside a specific place to invoke reverence, worship, praise, and hope.  It is also a place where non-Believers, because of the presence of Believers, can feel, see, and /or hear the presence of God; not because of the place, but because of the people. 

...Architects will tell you if a building is boarded up, the building will decay much faster than if people were in it using its doors, floors, and walls. Even in decay, with people in it, it will last longer. There is something very special about the presence of God’s people. God has hidden a secret treasure map deep within the recess of our hearts for us to find Him. Let us gather together, because together we invoke His ultimate power in unity to combat evil.  However, even then, understand that you in your solitude, through Jesus Christ, have a direct conduit to God.   L.  

Study Reference: Jeremiah 31:32-34
From:"Within YOU."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: istock

​“For all the Law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself.”  
​Galatians 5:14


It has been said that we are separated by "six degrees of separation." Which means that most of us can find anyperson in the world, without knowing them, by connecting with six other people or less. When we add in the connectivity of the Internet and all the social media websites, any computer literate person can peck a few strokes of a keyboard to connect with just about anyone.

Although the "six-degrees" concept has been proven many times; the truth is, if we really understood this concept, we would never waste any of our interactions with others. 
Think about it for a moment; an average person can connect with any person in the world without personally knowing them. This means that, no person on earth is impossible to meet or influence concerning the Word of God.

Hmmm... –It appears that God gave us an embedded GPS microchip coded directly into our DNA to find, teach, love, or influence one another. So, the next time you interact with someone, know that your interaction will be magnified 6 degrees out into the world, and has the potential to possibly return 6 degrees back to you! 

Today, why not live in the moment, recognizing that every human interaction that you have today, has the absolute potential to eventually change the world, and /or someone's life, –even yours. L.

Study Reference: Galatians 5:14
Excerpt from: "Six Degrees of Separation." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: Pixabay

“The Heavens declare the Glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork.  Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where Their Voice is not heard.  Their Line is gone out through all the Earth, and Their Words to the end of the world. ...His going forth is from the end of the Heaven, and His circuit unto the ends of it; and there is nothing hid from the heat thereof."   Psalm 19:1-6

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It’s easy to believe that our problems are insurmountable.  Somehow, no matter how much we believe in God, we continuously believe that our problems, whatever they may be, are far too difficult for God to handle.  Of course they are not; however, in order to put all problematic issues in our lives in full perspective, let’s take a look at our Solar System.  But, before we do, think of the biggest, most difficult, completely overwhelming problem that exists in your life right now.  Is it a truly massive problem? –I mean really enormous?  

Then, say this out loud.    “Is there anything too hard for God?”  “-No!”

Pictured above, is a digital rendering of the planets in our solar system.  Today we know that there are thousands of galaxies, all with their own planetary formations within the universe. But for now, simply look at the picture.  Saturn is simple enough for you to find, it’s the ringed planet in the center; and, our Sun is the giant yellow orb in the background. However, can you locate Earth in the photo?  – If so, decide which one it is now.

We know that Science and technology proves God every day.  So, just imagine for one moment how small and insignificant we feel in reference to the size of our earth; now, imagine how small these planets are in reference to the Sun.  And, because of the Hubble telescope, we now know that there are energy masses within the universe that are 10 times larger than our sun. –Ten times!

Yet, just so you keep your problem in perspective; take a look at the photo again.  Earth is the third planet from the left with the tiny little orb next to it. The Heavens truly do declare the glory of the Lord!   God keeps everything in perfect order!  –Nothing is out of alignment.  So, keep your massive problem in perspective in relation to God. The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding, in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path.”   
So remember, there is nothing too hard for God!  If He can handle the intricate rotation of the planets; and, maintain the delicate balance of the universe, is there really anything plaguing your life that He cannot handle?  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 19:1-6, Proverbs 3;5-6
From: “The Heavens Declare God ll.” In The Master's Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo / illustration: Robert Ziche
 
**Here’s the order from left to right: Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune;
​plus dwarf planets: Pluto, Haumea, Makemake, and Eris. ​

“...Simon Peter said unto them, I go a fishing." They say unto him, "We also go with thee." They went forth, and entered into a ship immediately; and that night they caught nothing. But when the morning was now come, Jesus stood on the shore; but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus. Then Jesus said unto them, "Children, have ye any meat?" They answered Him, "No."   And He said unto them, "Cast the net on the right side of the ship, and ye shall find." They cast therefore, and now they were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.”   John 21:3-6 


Like many Americans, I believe that the most proven way to have monetary wealth is to be an entrepreneur. We have only to look at, Forbes 100 Richest People in America, to find that more than 90% are entrepreneurs or the heirs of entrepreneurs. 

The problem is, being an entrepreneur is never easy; it tests the limitations of your beliefs. If you really want to learn who you are and what you truly stand for, create a cash reserve (very important), stop your daily 9-5 (gradually if possible), and become an entrepreneur.  Whether you open a store, create a product, work from home online, or are part of one of those multi-level marketing businesses; your stamina, faith, and core beliefs, will be tested.
There will be things you learn about your core beliefs that will shock you. Your core beliefs will be threatened; and, you will be asked to do things for monetary gain that will either test your faith or enhance your lack of faith. You will learn your true feelings about money in relation to God, time, love, and people (family, friends, business associates, etc.)  I added love to the list, because it will test the true depths of your deepest relationships.  And, if you don’t know God as yet --you will.  —All this, and still most entrepreneurs would not trade places with their 9 am-5 pm counterparts. 

When we look at the motley crew Jesus selected as His twelve Apostles, He chose very specifically.  At least 1/3 of His Apostles were entrepreneurs; fishermen by trade: Peter, Andrew, James, and John, had to rely on the ocean for a living. Like most entrepreneurs relying on the ocean for a living, you must have faith to believe that you will reap a bounty you cannot clearly see in so vast an ocean. The test for most Christian entrepreneurs will be obedience. The kind of obedience found in today’s biblical verse, where Jesus tells Peter and the others to cast their net on the RIGHT side of the boat; even though, they have just spent an entire day and night reaping absolutely nothing from the ocean.  Nevertheless, they were obedient.  And, as a result of their obedience, they received a net so full of the ocean’s bounty that they had difficulty reeling it in. 

So, for the entrepreneurs who are having difficulty extending their limits, it’s time to step up your faith, focus on obedience, and cast your net on the RIGHT side. This way, like Peter, you too will reap an overflowing bounty so full from God, you will have difficulty reeling it in alone. L. 

Study Reference: John 21:3-6, Matthew 9:28-29 
​From: "Christian Entrepreneurs." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Corey Arnold

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​“...And He said, Go forth and stand upon the mount before the Lord.  And, behold the Lord passed by, and a great strong wind rent the mountain, and brake into pieces the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake.  And after the earthquake a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire; and after the fire, a still small Voice.  And it was so, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entering of the cave, and behold there came a Voice unto him…”      1 Kings 19:11-13


There are times when hearing God's voice is more difficult than others; yet, I believe every human being is capable of hearing very specific directions from God, whether we choose to listen is another story.  Some people consider God the voice of reason or conscience; I do not, reason and conscience is our own. Depending on how you were raised and the type of ideals instilled during your formative years, there will be decisions you make in life that you consider lofty, and some, by your own standards, you will consider low.  

The Voice I am referring to, is the one that says, for example, "Move the car to the right lane now!"  Somehow you reiterate the same command out loud; although, no one else is in the car with you. And, lo and behold, right after you obey the Voice, a metal object large enough to have taken your life falls off the truck that was in front of you —in the lane you just came from.  —That's the Voice I am referring to.  If you grew up with your parents, or those you consider parents, their voice will stand out in your head.  In many instances you can hear their voice in your sleep, and, can easily imitate them for fun. You can be in a crowd of thousands, yet somehow you can easily make the distinction between their voice and every other voice in the crowd.  Animals also have this trait.  They can easily differentiate between their master’s voice and that of a twin.  

The problem with hearing The Voice is that, we keep so many other voices in our heads simultaneously, it becomes difficult to distinguish which one is God, which one is culture, and which one is ours.  When I refer to culture, I am referring to the radio, friends, family, media, music, advertisements, and yes, even daily devotions like this one. We adhere to so many voices, that often, we do not give ourselves time to notice and note the distinction between God’s voice and everything else.  

Truth be told, God’s voice has a way of working through the clutter. We know this is true because He gets through to us in spite of ourselves. But, wouldn't it be great if we actually took the time to quiet the clutter? —To simply release our minds into His care, so that He wouldn't have to scream just to get our attention?   L.  

Study Reference:  Kings 19:11-14   
From: "Hearing His Voice." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: wordpress

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"In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat... for He grants sleep to those He loves."
Psalm 127:2 (NIV)


Are you sleeping well? Did you have a good night sleep?  
Did you know that having peaceful sleep is a blessing? Peaceful sleep means that you have taken care of what you can; and, you have relinquished the daily issues and cares of this world to the only One who can dissolve your fears —God. However, for those of you who are struggling with peaceful slumber, here’s a thought:

Turn off the television. 
The television, with its loud commercials, bad news, and concurrent episodes of murder, mayhem, and the mundane, penetrate your psyche and change the natural cycle of your dreams.  Advertising executives originally developed television commercials to foster action, creating desire for their product, and the anxiety to purchase.
—None of which you will be doing in your sleep. 

Turn off the music. 
The music, even if it is your favorite song, actually does the same thing as the television commercials. However, they stimulate your senses a little differently.  Since the music is your favorite music, the songs trigger a more overt 
emotional reaction by prompting memories to the surface, not allowing your brain to rest or relax. This is why the best commercials are set to music. They correlate a product to a favorite memory increasing the anxiety to purchase. Again, no need to count sheep. --Just turn it off. 

Turn off the lights. 
Turning off the lights tells your brain you are ready to sleep. It allows your body to wind down, limiting external stimuli to your eyes and skin. It is one of the reasons we get so tired during the winter months; we do not receive enough light stimulation from the sun. Days are shorter, we are tired earlier.
So, close the drapes, and flip the switch.

Say your prayers. 
Saying your prayers at bedtime is not just for children; and, it is not, “Now I lay me down to sleep...”  Saying your prayers upon retiring signifies that you are relinquishing all your daily cares to God, acknowledging His blessings and sovereignty in your life. It is courageously accepting those things you can change, and enduring those things you cannot.  Ask God's blessing for yourself, and those you love; ask for forgiveness for whatever you believe you have done against Him, yourself, and your fellow man. Then, close your eyes to the world and leave the rest to God. The Bible says, "...He offers sleep to those He loves."  So, to you, —Sweet dreams and peaceful slumber.  L.

Study Reference: Psalms 127:2
From:"Peaceful Slumber." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: essentials

“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.  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: Ingo Arndt
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“I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised.“    
Psalm 18:3 a


When is God worthy to be praised?
There are some people who will only praise God when they are in church. And, there are others who will only sing the songs found in their hymnal. However, praise is personal; often, our songs are our heartfelt prayers set to music.  Whether we are happy or sad, or full of joy or sorrow, the songs we sing are our way of calling out for God’s mercy and goodness.  It is our soul’s poetry to Him and it can be completely random and made up as we go. So remember, when you call on God you do not have to be eloquent, on key, in unison, or even audible; your song simply has to be a song that encompasses your heartfelt love and honest praise.  L.  

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

Study Reference: Psalm 18:3
From: "Praise" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

"And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them.  But their eyes were holden that they should not know Him.” “…and it came to pass as He sat at meat with them, He took bread, and blessed it and brake, and gave to them.  And their eyes were opened, and they knew Him; and He vanished out of their sight.” 
Luke 24:15-16, 30-31

There are times when I wonder if Jesus appeared to us today, communing as a stranger, if we would know Him? 
In Hebrews 13:2, the Bible says, we "…entertain angels unaware.”  What if Jesus stood in our midst listening to our conversation regarding our faith as we go through our trials and tribulations?  How would He perceive our faith and knowledge of His teachings?   

In the verse above, found in Luke 24, Cleopas and a fellow Believer are sadly walking home together on the third day following the crucifixion of Jesus; when amazingly, they are approached by Jesus querying the saddened state of their conversation.  Astonished that Jesus is unaware of the occurrences of the last three days; Cleopas explains that, their solemn demeanor is the result of the events concerning Jesus’ life and subsequent crucifixion. Transfixed by the Spirit of God, they are unaware that they are speaking directly to the very person they are speaking about.They did not recognize Him!  Their lack of faith and disillusion inhibited their recognition of Jesus standing right in their midst. Now, really consider this for a moment, and tell the truth. What if Jesus was standing around listening to your conversation? --What would He hear? 

Jesus eventually rebukes their lack of faith, teaching them about the Biblical prophesies foretelling His life, crucifixion, and subsequent resurrection. When they finally reach their destination, Cleopas and his friend insist that Jesus dine with them; he accepts, eventually offering communion.  Immediately after they take communion, and become one with the Father, their eyes are opened and--Jesus vanishes.  

We realize that after their eyes were opened, Jesus did not need to linger with them any longer; their faith was restored.  In accepting the invitation to commune with them, Jesus gave the two men immediate replenishment and the strength to persevere. So much so, that they were able to walk the 7.5 miles back to Jerusalem—completely transformed and jubilant! 

Here's what I learned from this story:

• First, be aware of your conversation when things appear bleak and your faith is lacking.  Your own words can create depression. Understand that by focusing on Jesus, your strength, faith, and understanding will be renewed so you can see what you really need to see—Him. 
• Second, the minute your perception changes, the condition of the problem also changes! A change in perspective enables you to proactively return to the source of the problem to face it head-on. 
• And finally, in the story, Jesus found his weary Believers and strengthened them. Like the parable of the Lost Sheep, He found them!  He found them in their weariness and weakened state; and, when they invited Him into their lives, He renewed their focus and strengthened their resolve! 

Like Cleopas and his friend, when you take the time to reconnect with God, He will provide exactly what your Spirit needs.  He will renew your strength and perspective so you can persevere through any issue with victory!   L. 

Study Reference: Luke 24:1-53
From: "Would You Know Him?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

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​“I will lift up mine eyes unto the Hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”     Psalm 121:1-2

​
This Psalm recounts a day in the life of the prophet Elisha taken from 2 Kings.  In the story, Elisha is being hunted by an enemy Syrian king, because of specific prophesies he gave the king of Israel to defeat Syria. When the Syrian king finally finds out exactly who is telling the king of Israel his military secrets, he commands his army to seize Elisha. So, during the night, the Syrian army completely surrounds the city and the prophet’s home.  The next morning when Elisha’s servant comes out to do his morning chores, he sees the army surrounding them; fearful, he goes back inside to tell Elisha. However, when Elisha comes out to look at the impending army, he turns to his servant and says, “Have no fear, The Army that is with us is larger than the one against us.”  Yet, Elisha’s servant could not see the army of God surrounding the Syrian army. He could only “see” the problem set before him.  Once Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened, the servant was able to see God’s angelic army of horses and chariots of fire surrounding the Syrian army. 
 
What does all this have to do with you?  –Well, just because you can’t see God’s army surrounding you, does not mean it’s not there.  Even when things seem the bleakest, do not give up!  Because, the reality is, God can change the tide of opportunity in seconds!  He can even change an impending army of enemies to your advantage.  
So, go ahead, “Lift up your eyes unto the Hills, your help comes from the Lord. Not just any lord, The LORD who made heaven and earth.”  L.
 
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse

Study Reference: Psalm 121:1-2, 2 Kings 6
From: “Your Thoughts:  Lord, Open My Eyes.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Joel Robison

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“Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am weak...”  
Psalm 6:2-a


In today’s culture we tend to honor strength in the mind and body, it is how we determine whether we are fit for a particular task or not. To most of us, weakness is seen as a flaw; and yet, it is in our weakness and often at our breaking point that the Holy Spirit shows up to instill His Strength. 

This last minute rescue is a confirmation of the verse found in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where Jesus says, “My Grace is sufficient for thee; for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness!”  It is where you say, "Help me Lord Jesus.  Have Mercy on me, O Lord, ...I am weak. --I cannot fight this battle one more minute, of one more day! --I have done everything I know how to do. --You, Oh Lord, are The Power and The Way. I give the reins of my problems to You.  --Not my will, but Your Will be done!  Amen."   Then, let it go!

When we have finally run out of options, our reliance on God tends to be greater, allowing Him to use His Strength to intercede, overpowering our weakness. So today, if you are feeling low, burdened, or weak, all you need to say is, "Have mercy on me, O Lord ...I am weak..."  L.

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

Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Psalm 6:2
From: “Your Thoughts: Our Power Reserve.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

“But this I say, he which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully shall reap also bountifully.  Every man according as he purpose in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.  And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; He hath given to the poor: His righteousness remains forever.”      
Corinthians 9:6-9
 

​The principle of blessing and serving others is very basic; it is a continuance of the Blessing Cycle God has bestowed on you and your family.  In fact, in many instances it can be a cycle that began long before you were born. 

When I was 10 years old, I watched as my Grandmother created a “care box” full of supplies for a neighbor in the small town where we lived. The neighbor was apparently going through a rough time financially, and was having difficulty feeding her family.  My grandparents were certainly not wealthy. However, they were more fortunate than many others in their small town in Central America; because, they had a small income from several farms and a monthly income in U.S. dollars from my parents and other family members in America. 

As I watched my Grandmother stockpile all the supplies she bought into the box, I asked her who the supplies were for.  A little stunned by her response, I said, "But Grandma, you don't even like that woman!"  And she said, “I don't do this for her, I do this for you.”  -Looking at her in disbelief, I said, “-Huh, me?”   She repeated her statement, and further explained, “I do it so that if YOU ever find yourself in need, someone will do this for you.”  Somehow, even at ten years old, I understood.  Now that she has passed on, I realize that I have been blessed many times due to her acts of kindness.  And now, I have lived long enough to see acts of kindness from others extended to members of my own family. 

The Blessing Cycle is a really simple premise. However, if you really need to fully understand this concept, here it is; bless others with your gifts, talents, and /or fortune, so you and your generation / descendants will be continuously blessed.  L. 
​
Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:6-9
From: "Continuing The Blessing Cycle." 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 His disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the laborers are few; pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.”      
Matthew 9:37-38 


While reading Malcolm Gladwell’s New York Times bestseller, The Tipping Point, I came across a line I found fascinating.
It is a relatively simple premise; a theory in economics called the "80/20 Principle." The short version is, within any group, the key word being any, “80 percent of the work will be done by 20 percent of the participants.”  Stop and take a moment to think about it.  Gladwell writes: 

“In most societies, 20 percent of criminals commit 80% of crimes. 20 percent of motorists cause 80% of all accidents. 20 percent of beer drinkers drink 80% of all beer.” He further states, “When it comes to epidemics, this disproportionality becomes even more extreme; a tiny percentage of people do the majority of the work.”   

This simply means that if we are referring to HIV, STDs, the flu, or any other virus, the 20 percent rule is much lower; it’s closer to 6%.  So, 6% of the group will infect 94 percent of the group if the virus is not isolated and/ or treated within a given time period. 

After reading this, I began thinking of other areas where this principle could be seen. Currently in the United States there are approximately 300 million people.  Approximately 45% of our population—135 million people, are Christian; this includes all denominations.  Yet, Christians have enormous influence in the U.S. Our influence encourages or discourages other voters in selecting their regional and national leaders.  In an effort to honor Puritan values on sobriety, regional “Blue Laws” are enforced on non-Christians weekly; and, whether we see its remnants or not, the Ten Commandments is still the basis for our judicial system.  So, this leads me to think about prayer. If the 80/20 principle works on a whole in economics and is essentially flawless when referring to an epidemic, why shouldn’t it work in God’s economy?  Why shouldn’t it work for prayer in your church?  

The original principle came directly from our Bible to begin with. Although God’s effecting percentage is much smaller and covers a much larger group.  The Bible says:

“And I will give peace in the land, and ye shall lie down, and none shall make you afraid; and I will rid evil beast out of the land, neither shall the sword go through your land…And 5 (5%) of you shall chase a hundred; and a hundred (1%) of you shall put ten thousand to flight; and your enemies shall fall before you by the sword.”  (Leviticus 26:6, 8)

So, here’s the question of the day.  Is 20% of your church praying for the other 80% of your group?  Who is praying for your family?  Who covers your building? What about your block? Your city? Your state? Your country? This planet?  Our universe?  

In Matthew 9:36-38, Jesus, looking at the multitude remarked how large the harvest was, and how few laborers there were. If forty-five percent of those in our nation are confessed Christians, there should be no grumbling about the state of this world. In God’s economy where 2 or 3 gathered in His name can enact change, 135 million people can surely pray to change the heartfelt desperation of 6 to 7 billion lives.   L.  

Study Reference: Matthew 9:36-38  
From: "The 80/20 Principle." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​Photo credit: Justin Dingwall

​"And the Lord said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man. And he said
unto Him, if now I have found grace in Thy sight then show me a sign that Thou talkest with me.”    Judges 6:16-17


We often plead with God to answer our prayers; however, sometimes we do not recognize or accept when God responds. Many times we reduce His response to good fortune, luck, or coincidence.  In discussing a difficult assignment we were working on, one of my colleagues shared a story concerning God’s response to his prayer request for a “sign” to assure him the job he was praying for would come through.   

“You are right;” He said, “It is a blessing.  I actually found out I got this job on my birthday. You know, it’s a funny thing. I was out of work for 15 months, the longest I have ever been out of work in my life, and I was very depressed. One evening, while visiting a friend of mine who lives upstate, I was sitting on the deck quietly praying, asking God for a job. I asked Him for a sign; something that would let me know that He really heard my prayer. When I looked up at the sky, I saw a shooting star!  I couldn't believe it!  I thought that I was seeing things, so I rubbed my eyes, and checked my glasses. When I looked up again, I saw another one, then another and another.  I couldn't believe it!  I called my girlfriend to tell her what had happened, and she told me that there was supposed to be a meteor shower that evening. As I told her the story, she said she thought it was a coincidence not a response from God; and, that I must have somehow known subconsciously that there was going to be a meteor shower that evening from the news. I explained that I didn't know there was going to be a meteor shower, and I hadn't even heard about it.  But she still didn't believe it was a response from God.  But I did!  It was too precise.  I had just finished asking for a sign, and there it was.  Then on November 18th, my birthday, I found out that I had gotten the job.” 

As he told the story, I thought about all the people who often pray about a circumstance or problem, yet somehow do not recognize the response when it occurs. It happens to all of us. We are reminded of this in the biblical story of Gideon, found in the Book of Judges, chapter six. Although, told by an angel that he is selected by God to lead Israel into battle against the Midianites and Amalekites, Gideon does not believe that he is the one God really wants. So, to gain confirmation of the angel’s message, he requests that the angel show him a sign.  When the sign occurs, he still does not believe he is the chosen one.  Believing instead that the sign was a coincidence, he requests yet another sign in the reverse order.  Throughout this story, although he is obedient to God, he is confused by his own fear, ultimately questioning almost every direction. 

Sometimes our doubts and fears get so far ahead of us that it becomes hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel.  Yet the Light is always there. There are times when you may need a sign to encourage you in your quest; if so, ask.
But remember, it was Jesus, in response to Didymus ‘Doubting’ Thomas’ unbelief who said, “Blessed are they who have not seen, yet have believed.”  —Because, sometimes we simply have to have faith in understanding that no matter what happens, God is working on our behalf.   L. 

Study Reference: Judges 6:1-40, John 20:27-29
From: "Show Me A Sign." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Dan Bush

“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”   
1 Timothy 2:1, 2:8 


Recently I have been attending a church near my home.  It is literally within walking distance from my home; so on those rare occasions where I may not feel like attending services, I actually have no excuse but to roll out of bed and go. While visiting the church I was asked by the Prayer Ministry Leader to join their prayer group for prayer. I was a little surprised since it is customary for these groups to pray for specific people or issues within the church; nevertheless, I joined their group for prayer. 

Prayer is a personal issue, and intercessory prayer is even more personal. The idea of group intercessory prayer is based on Matthew 18:18-20, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them...”  Yet, not every person can intercede on behalf of others.  In order to intercede on behalf of another person, you truly have to believe anything is possible.  And, I mean anything!  True intercession, is based on clearing all of your own personal biases, concerns, fears, judgments, and preconceived notions so you can be in full agreement with the other person’s request. If the request is not something you agree with, you cannot pray for that request.  It simply cannot garner a solution from God based on the principle of touching and agreeing. 

Herein lies the problem.  In order to intercede on behalf of another, the other person really should tell you, in confidence of course, what their issue is.  They should not speak around the issue, talk in code, or ask in secrecy.  The idea is, you should actually agree with what the other person is asking for.  If it is done in secret, how do you know that you agree with the petition being place before God?   You don’t!  If they can’t tell you, then maybe they should find someone they can confide in, or begin the process of praying alone in their prayer closet. The intercessor has a spiritual responsibility to maintain the personal confidence of the person they are praying for. There are no grey areas concerning the confidentiality of the matter. Unless you are purposely enlisting the spirit-filled prayers of additional prayer partners in a prayer group for the person in question, everything told to you should be in confidence.  Take the time to pray for others, omit your own fears and truly pray for them; because, you never know when you will need someone to pray for you.  L. 

Study Reference:  1 Timothy 2:1, 2:8, Mark 1:35
From:"Praying For Others."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: sherry zhao

"Then spoke Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and He said in the sight of Israel, "Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon." And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day. And there was no day like that before it or after it that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man; for the LORD fought for Israel.”   Joshua 10:12-14
 
​
The book of Joshua can be viewed as a modern-day metaphor for the types of trials we encounter where Christians need to prepare for personal battles.  This is primarily true because, many of its stories and battles take place in the desert.  Within its pages, readers are taught how to fight in a desert experience while maintaining deep faith.  The thing is, a desert experience takes more than preparation, and it takes more than bodily strength; it is the type of experience that requires total dependence on God. Why?  Because, in the desert, we can never predict or prepare enough water (faith), to quench the deep thirst (spiritual dependence), caused by the burning sun (conflict); we simply just never know how hot it is going to be or how our body will react to the pelting heat of the sun. 

The three verses found above are the fulfillment of a promise God made to Joshua while in the midst of fighting yet another desert battle.  In this passage, Joshua asks God to hold back the sun from going down and the moon from rising, so his army could annihilate Gibeon’s enemies without violating the Sabbath. 

While I read the surrounding paragraphs, all I could think about was this. If God could hold back the sun and the moon from a full orbit for one whole day, what problem could I possibly have that He cannot solve?  When we look more closely, we have to believe, it is our lack of faith that inhibits the release of His solutions to our problems.  We are the ones who inhibit God's solutions!  If we exhibit extraordinary faith—faith beyond that which we normally consider natural; then, metaphorically speaking, the sun and the moon can be held back from their orbit. 

Like all tribulations in our lives, our Faith will be tested to the extreme; since, it is only in the extreme tests that we are able to exhibit the kind of extraordinary Faith, which enables God to literally stop the sun and the moon from moving.   L.  

Study Reference: Joshua 10:6-14  
From: "The Day The Sun Stood Still." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
Photo: unknown 

​
“Hear My prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications; in Thy faithfulness answer me and in Thy righteousness. Cause me to hear Thy loving kindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trust; cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my soul unto Thee.”   
Psalm 143:1, 8 


Think about this for a moment; why do you pray?  Are you a petitioner? Are you a repenter?  Are you a pleader?  Or, maybe a negotiator?  Or, could you be a complainer? 

Consider this; if you were listening to your own prayers, what would be the overall theme of your prayers?  Would your prayers sound like, “Oh Lord, help me get through this day! I can’t stand those people I work with!” Or, “Lord, forgive me.  I continue to do the things I shouldn’t do.”   Or, possibly more like, “Help me, oh Lord, I need …I need...
​…I need.”  

Do you find yourself praying and asking God for more things in your prayers rather than simply praising God for his overall presence and mercy in your life? Are you thanking Him for the air you breathe? —For the legs you stand on?  —The eyes you see through? 

As Christians, God is our cavalry in times of trouble—the ultimate knight in shining armor who destroys our foes and clears our path. However, sometimes we forget that the holistic power of prayer is to maintain the spiritual bond that forms the foundation of our relationship with God. It is less about asking for things, and more about praising God for His goodness, presence, and mercy in our lives.  It is the love within our spirit thanking God for the Glory of His presence in this world, in our land, and in our lives.  

It is honest gratitude, including gratitude for our problems; gratitude, with the understanding that there is an evolutionary process that occurs in discovering the solution and receiving a breakthrough.  It is the profound understanding of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He said, “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” Luke 22:42   It is our keen awareness that there may be something we may want, yet cannot receive, because it is not part of our evolutionary process, or spiritual development to receive it as yet. 

Our prayers are extremely complex. During our prayer time, God communes with us; speaking and guiding us in the divine direction of our daily lives.

Obviously, there will be instances when we earnestly petition God; times when we will plead for forgiveness, ask for direction, beg for mercy, or even complain about a particular circumstance. And, there will be times when we pray for ourselves and intercede on the behalf of others. However, let us not forget that the foundation of our overall prayers should always be to maintain a thankful heart filled wholly and simply with gratitude.   L.   

Study Reference: Psalm 143:1, 8; 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Philippians 4:6
From: "Got Prayer?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

“Hear my prayer, O Lord, and let my cry come unto Thee. Hide not Thy face from me in the day when I am in trouble; incline Thine ear unto me; in the day when I call, answer me speedily.”   Psalm 102:1-2
 


After taking a certification course to advance his career, a colleague of mine could not find a job in the field of his certification.   A native of the West African country of Nigeria, and a naturally persistent guy, he began feeling the anguish of unemployment. With his savings dwindling, and bills piling up, he began his daily prayer ritual of asking God for a job, with the certainty that his new certification would speed up the process of finding employment. In addition, the certification offered a much anticipated opportunity to travel across the United States.  But unfortunately, no new opportunities arose.

He began to consistently ask God for a job —any job where he could use his newly acquired certification status.  One day after his regular prayer session, the phone rang.  Like most Nigerians, he preferred the balmy breezes of any warm climate; and with fifty states to choose from, he was certain he would be recruited to work in one of the Southern or Western states in the country.  When he answered the phone, the recruiter on the other end asked if he was interested in an out-of-town assignment. “ --Oh yes!”  He answered excitedly.  “Where?”   He asked, wondering about all the possibilities.  “ --Alaska.” The recruiter answered.  “But,” he continued, “--You have to be certified!”   
It was an obvious answer to his prayer, so he took the job.

He laughs while telling the story because he says, 
“It never occurred to me to be more specific when placing my petition before God. Of all the places I could have chosen, Alaska was definitely the last place on my list. To be honest, I was so desperate; I would have gone anywhere there was work. Although I was truly grateful, when I got off the phone, all I could do was laugh. God certainly has a sense of humor. I stayed in Alaska for the winter. —​Yes, I experienced winter in Alaska; elk, moose, and reindeer burgers!  All along I knew that God would not have given me something I could not handle!”  

Sometimes we neglect to acknowledge when God answers our prayers. We dismiss the events as mere coincidences, when in fact; it is the very hand of God within our circumstances. My friend could have dismissed the recruiter and the offer to live in Alaska for the winter; but he did not.  He recognized the blessing in his life and pursued his destiny, earning more in the few months he was in Alaska than most people earn in a year. 
Now when he tells the “Alaska” story, he reminds people to be a little more specific when asking God for a particular blessing.  He tells everyone:             
“If you are not interested in going anywhere, then make certain you don’t ask for just anything. Because, if you do, there’s a really good chance that you will get any-thing!”   L.  

Study Reference: Psalm 102:1-2
​ From: "An Answered Prayer." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Victoria Metaxas

​"Lord I cry unto Thee; make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto Thee. Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.”      Psalm 141:1-2 


The supplication of solitary prayer is highly personal. It is not like the prayer of agreement; or, like intercessory prayer, where someone who empathizes with you, prays for you.  Solitary prayer is your own personal plea to God for action on your behalf.  No one can do it for you!  It is confession of those deeply personal issues where truly only God can help you.  It is not “…Now I lay me down to sleep…”  It is more like, “Do I jump out of this window now, or drop to my knees and pray?” 

Your friends can’t help you because they don’t care; and your family can’t help you because they don’t understand.  It is the kind of problem where your spirit is so completely overwhelmed, --the pain so deeply etched and so far reaching, that only God can soothe it.  The truth is, if you have never been there and you are a Christian—your time will come! It came for David, Joseph, Job, Esther, Mary—the list can go on.  It came for Jesus—it will come for you.  Your solitary prayer is the scent of your soul weeping its petition in the presence of God.  

Revelation 8:3-4 says, 

“…And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before the throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand…”

Our prayers are the sweet and savory scent of burning incense to God!  Our petitions, pleas, supplications, begging, weeping, moaning, and thrashing, although oftentimes quite painful for us, are the thick sweet smoke of incense before the throne of God!  The deeper the prayer, the stronger the scent! That’s why your words are irrelevant to God; your moaning and tears have their own pungent scent.    

Beloved, know that God hears your supplications, and listens to your inner most needs. So, for a change, instead of waiting until all else fails, why not start with prayer first.  L.  

Study Reference: Psalm 141:1-2, Psalm 142, Revelation 8:3-4  
From: "Solitary Prayer." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

​“...And he, trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me do? And The Lord said unto him, Arise and go into the city and it shall be told thee what thou must do.”    Acts 9:6


Somehow, as humans, we find it difficult to remain on course. There is always something to distract us from our goal; people, places, things, work, even —family.  There are times when God governs our distractions, so that we may fulfill His Will; and, there are times when He does not.  Our goal, as the distractions occur, is to use our inspired sense of discernment to determine the difference.

If God initiates our distraction, there are no deceptions, hidden agendas, or shady dealings; and somehow, miraculously, there is no lost time. —We remain right on schedule!  Almost everyone can attest to this; since, it has happened to most of us, at one time or another.  Just think about it for a few minutes; you'll remember.
You may remember a time when you thought you were lost, but found exactly what you were looking for.  Or, when you were in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and met the person who would become your closest friend, or lifelong partner. 

When our distractions are not initiated by God, they are usually created by us, due to our own disobedience, or innate fears. These distractions can be destructive; and, they can make accessing the detour routes back to God a difficult process.  However, do not be dismayed, there is always a road back to God!

To get back on track, each person will have to travel their respective routes separately to understand how to access the detours delivered by God.  The process is highly personal; and, like most detour routes, they are long, winding, unavoidable, and not to our liking.  Like Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus, found in Acts 9:3-21, the process selected by God to get us back on track can be quite a shock to our system!  However, just like Paul’s conversion, God will also send someone to help us to clearly see the new route.  L.

Study Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6, Acts 9:3-21
From: "Course Correction." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo; publicdom