​
​“Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works; show me thy faith without thy works, and I will show thee my faith by my works.  Thou believe that there is one God; thou doest well; the devil also believes, and tremble. But will thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?”       
James 2:18-20 


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

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

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

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

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

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

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my Soul..."     Psalm 23:1-3a


Today, take a few minutes to breathe, literally.  If you already know the beginning verses of the 23rd Psalm, then close your eyes and inhale deeply, swelling your chest with air. Do it loud enough to hear it. Then exhale loudly. Repeat it at least 3 times while meditating and slowly repeating the words in today's verse. Use it whenever you need it; it will replenish you. If you know the entire Psalm by heart, your task will be to actually say all the verses s-l-o-w-l-y.  Why?Because, many times we rush through the words without realizing that we are rushing through our own healing.
Here’s the idea:

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want.“

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: “He Maketh me to lie down in green pastures.”

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: “He Leadeth me beside the still waters.”

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: “He Restores my soul...”

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "He Leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His Name sake." 

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil;" 

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "For Thou Art with me;"

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "Thy Rod and Thy Staff they Comfort me." 

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "Thou Preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies;"

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "Thou Anointest my head with oil."

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "My cup runneth over." 

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "Surely Goodness and Mercy shall follow me all the days of my life;"

Inhale deeply (hold), exhale: "And, I shall dwell in the House of the Lord forever."

This is how I begin my prayer time. Take your time. It will calm your spirit and allow you to focus on the Promises of God for your  life. Consider repeating the entire 23 Psalm until you truly feel it.  -It will replenish you.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 23
From; "Replenishment." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living ll.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
​photo: for angels only

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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  "Who can understand his errors?  Cleanse Thou me from secret faults.”    Psalm 19:12

​
Even as Christians, there are errors that we have made in the past that can be seen by others when they look at the frayed edges of our lives. And, there are errors that we have made that are completely unknown to anyone. They are the secret ones; those known only to us and no one else. Sometimes, in an effort to cleanse ourselves —to purge its remnant effects from our spirit, we may tell one other person. But somehow, it is never enough.

The Bible calls these secrets errors, presumptuous sins. They are the ones we hide; the ones we are ashamed of; the ones we believe if anyone ever found out, we would be ruined, disgraced, even suicidal. So, we secretly condemn ourselves, quietly suffering in silence; even though, they are quietly tucked away in the past.

And Yet, God created a solution for the presumptuous sins of a repentant heart. The dictionary defines it as:
“The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.” As Christians, we simply call it, Grace.  Like the other gifts of God, Grace was given to you as part of your redemption, forgiveness, and salvation when you accepted Jesus into your life. 

So, maybe today will be the day that you finally stop condemning yourself for your past errors, and accept all that God has already freely given to you —by His Grace.  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 19:12, Psalm 32
From: "Your Thoughts: By His Grace!" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Loews

​

​"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.”     Proverbs 3:5-6


There was a debate on a popular television news show a few years ago, which focused on the age-old question concerning the presence of God. The host asked a panel of prominent intellectuals,“Is there a God?” Both atheists and Christians were represented on the panel. As you can imagine, the debate became quite heated with opposing viewpoints. The host then allowed members of the live studio audience, both pro and con, to question the panelists. I can recall one woman's statement in particular, she said, 
​
"I am an atheist. I do not believe in God. There cannot be a God because, there is so much evil in the world! And, if there is one, he must be evil because he allows innocent people to die and innocent babies to be born with diseases. Explain why your God allows this!"

She was very passionate while making her statement, and I could easily see her anger as she asked her question. The thing is, as I listened to her tirade, I thought to myself, “…She is a Christian waiting to happen.”  It's not that she does not believe in God; it is that, she is angry with God for a personal issue. Something occurred in her life that she does not understand and has not accepted, so hating God became her target.

This happens to a lot of people; even Christians. While we love God, it is sometimes difficult to understand why bad things occur in our lives. The truth is, if we can see pass the problem and focus our trust and faith in God long enough, we will find strength and understanding in the problem. Because, oftentimes, the problem clouds our Faith.

Consider this reverie; go back in your life a few years ago, for some people, it may be only a few months ago; try to recall something you considered a major problem. -Is it still a major problem for you today; or, has it strengthened you?  If it occurred again could you walk through it; or, would it paralyze you all over again?  Could you help another person go through that same issue to become their pillar of strength; or, would you watch them suffer from the sidelines?  When you look back on your life, it does not matter whether years have passed, months, or days; in many instances, what you really needed was the strength to move your attention away from the problem, and onto the Holy Spirit, so that you could recapture your Faith in God.  

If you can keep your focus embedded in the Power of God long enough, given time, you will learn to understand the role that the problem played in the grand scheme of your life. When this occurs, you will eventually come to the realization that God has already made YOU stronger than any problem.  L. 

Study Reference: Proverbs 3:5-12
From: "Refocusing."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Josh Calabrese

“O keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in Thee.”   ​Psalm 25:20


In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living,  has several devotions on the book of Job; however, Job is not my favorite book of the Bible.
I love the prose and the poetry penned as Job is questioning God. The writing is absolutely beautiful.  And, I especially love when God responds.  I find it fascinating that God actually pauses to ask Job, “Where were YOU when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Who shut up the sea with doors when it broke forth as if it had issued out of the womb?  -Were YOU there ...When I wrapped it in swaddling cloth... and said, here shall thou come, but no further... Here shall your proud waves be stayed!” 

So yes, I am fascinated that the sea does not break forth as tsunamis each and every day, on every continent, on every island, killing all non-swimming life on the planet.  And yes, it is with pride that I believe in God and the promises of His Word.  It is with pride, and sometimes, much too proudly, that I put my trust in Him and prompt others to do the same.  –But, sometimes, like Job, God will question us.  Sometimes, God will ask us, “Were YOU there?”   Sometimes, He will shame us into understanding that, He is not at our command; we are at His.  And, no matter how wonderfully arrayed we are displayed, to Him, we are but dust.  It is the reason that, as Christians, we come to Him under the covering of Jesus. 

So Beloved, there will be times when you've put your trust in God; times when you've prayed, plead, begged, supplicated, pondered, confessed, cried, screamed; or, even been shamed into understanding that, sometimes, you simply will not get what you want, when YOU want it. –It is God's way of asking you, "Were YOU there ...?"  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 25:20
From: “Your Thoughts: Were You There?"In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock


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​​"And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at His feet, giving Him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?  There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.”  And He said unto him, “Arise, go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole.”        Luke 17:15-19 


Sometimes we question God's Integrity based on our own integrity.  We think because our integrity wavers between good and evil that somehow God will intentionally betray us. Well, this is partly true, if we are referring to betrayal by Truth.  God is consistently Righteous, Holy, and Truthful.  If anything, we are the ones who continually betray God with the inconsistency of our actions, words, and thoughts.  

In Luke 17:11-19, is the story of the ten lepers healed by Jesus as he passed through Samaria and Galilee on his way to Jerusalem.  To fully understand the story, you have to know some of the historical correlation between the Samaritans, Jews, and the disease leprosy. All lepers, unlike others who were ailing in ancient times, had to stay away from their village for two reasons; first, villagers felt leprosy was contagious, and second, according to Hebraic law, there were to be no prolonged interactions between the healthy and the sick.  This was especially true if you were a priest.  Once someone was regarded as having leprosy, they were expelled from their village, and other lepers became their new family network, without regard to tribal heritage or culture.  Now the thing about the Samaritans is, the governing Jews despised them.  Samaritans were Jews also, however, because they were racially mixed and had intermarried non-Jews from neighboring tribes, the governing Jews felt they were not “pure-bred.”  We read into this in the exchange between Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well in John 4:9.   

As the story goes, the 10 lepers, outcasts of Hebrew society, ailing with the ultimate disease of their day, cry out to Jesus to heal them, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”  Merciful and faithful He hears their plea for mercy, and says to them, “Go show yourselves unto the priests.”  Although it is taboo to go near the priests, obediently they start to go; and, as they are walking, they are healed.  

Here is the part we forget even today—gratitude. Only one leper—the Samaritan, upon finding himself healed, returns, and in a loud voice, begins to glorify God, giving thanks, prostrate at Jesus’ feet!  Ordinarily, most people refer to the lack of gratitude shown by the other nine, citing Jesus’ query, “…Where are the nine?”  However, since today’s Daily is on faithfulness, let us note, it was the Samaritan, a man from a group the Jews believed to be impure, and possibly unholy, who came back to offer gratitude.   

More importantly, let us remember, although the nine did not return to offer their supplication of gratitude for receiving mercy and healing, Jesus in His Faithfulness did not retract their healing!  So, although we may waver minute by minute; God never does!   Today, in between the food, family and friends, like the last leper, take the time  to offer praises of Love and Gratitude for ALL that He has already done!  L.    

Study Reference: Luke 17:11-19  
From:"Faithfulness, Not Relying On Gratitude." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Groza Danut

​"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 freewill; 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

​“…That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”      1 Corinthians 2:5


Have you ever been in a rush to get somewhere and someone unknown and/or in distress said, “Excuse me?”  interrupting your schedule?  Do you brush the person off?   Or, do you stop for a moment to see if you can be of assistance?  What about interruptions caused by family members, or those you love?  Can you look pass your own needs to see that they may be in distress or in need?  With all the media, mobile devices, and unscheduled events purposely trying to distract you from your life’s purpose, how you deal with the interruption says a lot about you and how you will react to life’s interruptions. 

God has many different ways of getting our attention; sometimes it’s a whisper, and sometimes it’s a bomb.  Either way, it causes us to pause, rethink, and re-purpose our lives. The whisper may come in the form of a nudge to get something done primarily for someone else. It pulls on your heartstrings, and although it is out of character, you just know it is the right thing to do. The bombs are a little different. —They are usually highly personal. They propel your level of thinking or behaving a quantum leap forward; but, in a completely different direction —with no turning back! 

...God does not really allow you to turn backwards. Similar to Lot’s wife and the children of Israel in their  mountainous experience, you either go forward or you stagnate, feeling sorry for yourself while reliving the heydays of smooth roads and sunny skies. Or, you forge ahead towards the new path set before you.  Sometimes, you will know it is in the will of God for you to take the mountainous road ahead. And sometimes, you will simply have to travel by faith, understanding that, “this too shall pass.”

Faith is always tested.  At times it may come in the form of an interruption; when it does, the lesson is never in the interruption. The lesson will always be in how you react to the interruption.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 2:5-9
Excerpt from:"Interruptions."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wallpaperup

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“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are.”     
1 Corinthians 1:27-28



For several years, my friends and I hosted a luncheon table after church; the premise was, because of the lack of parking, most people would stay to attend the afternoon program if lunch was provided. It was an open table where members, non-members, and visitors were welcome. We had very lively biblical debates regarding some of the interpretations presented by our diners. 

One afternoon we had a lengthy discussion concerning Jesus’ miracle of turning water into wine. The discussion lasted three weeks, not counting the research, preparation, and the Internet emails between the two main debaters. It was quite interesting and both sides had some great points. However, just so you do not send me every email under the sun, my position is as the Bible states, Jesus turned the water into wine; yes wine!  If we take everything else at face value in our Bible, we have to take this also. OK, with that said, I do not believe the wine was capable of making people drunk no matter how much they drank; not because the wine was mere “grape juice,” but because Jesus created it. I cannot imagine that Jesus would allow the imbibing of His wine to cast others into drunken madness. Yet, the governor at the wedding exclaimed in John 2:10, “Thou hast kept the good wine until now!” 
​So, as Shakespeare said, “Therein lies the rub!”

If we consume man-made alcohol, we are destined to be drunk. If you have a certain upbringing where alcohol is an integral part of your meal, you have a tradition of consumption that can lead your body organs into decay, not to mention a chemical dependency that rarely goes away.  For those of us who believe that, since Jesus turned water into wine, imbibing should be an integral part of our own lives, why not take it a step further and do some of the other things Jesus did?  Why not spend some time healing the sick, helping the poor, or teaching the Word of God to the masses.  Let us not spend so much time concentrating on the wine; let us instead, concentrate on the miracle.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:25-28
From:"Water Into Wine." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: Tony Cenicola

​"To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; A time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth?"       Ecclesiastes 3:1-9 


​Science proves God every single day.  As Christians we must embrace science and technology as proof in understanding how difficult it is to dismiss how truly awesome God is!  

Scientists say that in order to create a computer that does all of the unconscious and mundane things your brain does every day, they would have to build a computer that takes up the entire square footage of the Empire State Building, in New York.  And, even then, if they are really lucky, it would barely function with the minimal workings of a newborn baby.  But Of course, as most new mothers can tell you, even this feat by a computer is impossible, since human babies evolve minute by minute after they are born.  And, we continue to evolve, minute by minute, day by day, month by month, and year by year until we take our very last breath.

The Bible says that the average human will live 70 years (Psalm 90:10).  If we break it down to seconds, every day that we live we would have consumed the 86,400 seconds which were added to our time on earth. On average, every month, we use 2,592,000 seconds; and, every year we use 31,536,000 seconds, give or take a leap year. And just in case we actually live to age 70, as most of us will, then, we would have consumed 2,207,520,000 seconds during our lifetime. Computers are evolving every day; they were designed to reduce the minutia and mundane so that we could do the things that really matter in the lives of humanity with and for other humans. They were not created to isolate us from each other. No one will ever say, “It was so wonderful the way she loved her computer.”  Or, “My, my; he spent so many hours with his beloved computer/ phone.”  

Somehow, our time on earth is always shorter than we think. Why not maximize every single second, of every single minute, of every single day?  L.

*It's your turn to write your thoughts on today's verse in your journal.

Study Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:1-9   
From: "Your Thoughts: Time."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: istock

​"And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not. And Jacob went near unto Isaac, his father; and he felt him, and said, The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau. And he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy as his brother, Esau's hands; so he blessed him.”     Genesis 27:21-22 
 

Although God may have a blessing for us, He has a way of allowing us to reap whatever we have sown. So, it is difficult to discuss Jacob and his uncle Laban without a discussion on deceit, and the perpetuation of even more deceit within Jacob's lineage. After Jacob and his mother created the elaborate “scam” to gain his brother Esau’s birthright, he literally sets himself up for a lifetime of grief, manifested from his own original deceit. Much of his life would become the perpetuation of the lie that began when he was a young man, and it would not end until he was quite old. 

It begins with Laban’s bait and switch of the wife Jacob really wants, with the one he actually marries. This sets up a level of competition within his household that would plague his marriage so much; it would be inherited by his sons. It continues with the scam his own sons would set in motion by selling Joseph, his favorite son, as a slave into the hands of his enemies. It perpetuates further, into the life of Joseph, where Potiphar’s wife would attempt to scam him into becoming her lover. And finally, it ends with Joseph pulling the final scam which would end the family's veil of deceit when he orders his brothers to bring their father to Egypt. We have to assume that the final scam pulled by Joseph, a man who truly trusted God, was much different than the previous ones. Why? —Because, Joseph's scam was based in love for his family. It offered no gain for himself, thereby ending the entangled web of deceit begun by his father. 

Suppose you knew ahead of time, that an elaborate lie or scam benefiting you greatly today, would manifest itself deep into your entire lineage, would you still do it?  What about drugs, alcohol, or criminal behavior?  Would you be the one to break the cycle?

Today, we look at Jacob’s theft of his brother’s birthright with some level of smugness. It is hard to believe that anyone would go through all that for a blessing. Yet, we know that God does not take back a blessing He has already bestowed. The actual passing of the birthright was not something literal to be passed on by man; it was a spiritual blessing bestowed by God. The thought that occurs to me every time I read this story is that God had already planned from the beginning to bless Jacob, just as He blessed Esau without the actual passing of the birthright from his father. Jacob complicated his own blessing by adding the lie—the deceit.  

So today, as we go through our lives, let’s be careful not to set in motion a deceptive seed that will perpetuate itself far into the lives of our family lineage, corrupting our blessing.  Since, unlike Jacob, we already know how the outcome will affect us. —It absolutely will impact our family.   L.  
 
Study Reference: Genesis 27:18-44, Deuteronomy 2:4-7
From: "Corrupting Our Blessing." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: The Troll's Tongue, Norwegian fjord
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​"...Then I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statues, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do them.”     Ezekiel 36:25-26
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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“Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ.  Not with eye service, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart: with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men. Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.”
​Ephesians 6:5-8
 


In the story of Elisha healing Naaman, the personal servants of both men play a significant part in the story. One wanted the blessing of healing for his master, and the other wanted the blessing of his master's gifts for himself. 
When we work for someone, whether we are working at the company just for the money, or for the love of the job, we should be able to bless those in charge; owners, managers, administrators, etc. If you truly cannot bless those at the helm, or the company you actually work for, maybe it's time for you to find a new job with people you can respect and bless!  Right now you are thinking of your boss, and truly considering closing this book permanently!

This may seem peculiar to some people, yet our example is found in the story of Naaman and the Prophet Elisha.  Both servants made an impact on the story found in 2 Kings, Chapter 5.  Gehazi, Elisha's assistant, was a man who saw Elisha heal and bless many people. The personal servant to Naaman, is a man the Bible does not name.
Yet, Naaman's servant blessed his master's life, understanding that by blessing his master, it would have a direct impact on his own life.  And, it was due to his direct urging that Naaman was healed of the curse leprosy.
Can you imagine how valued this servant was to Naaman after he was healed?

On the contrary, Elisha's servant, Gehazi, surprisingly did not have the ability to understand God's provisions for Elisha.  Instead of blessing the wondrous works of God done through his boss, he envied his ability.  He did not understand that in blessing Elisha, he too would be blessed.  And so, he misunderstood why Elisha refused to accept the gifts offered by Naaman for the healing bestowed by God.  Had he understood, he would have blessed Elisha, adding a full richness and blessing to his own life.  Instead, he opened his life up to receiving the fullness of the curse leprosy.  Once stricken with the disease leprosy, he was useless to Elisha.  His life could not show the blessings bestowed by God, just the curse. 

Bless those around you.  If you truly cannot bless those who work in your midst, then why are you there? Find someplace else to work where you can bless those around you; or else, begin to make a conscious effort to bless the ones you currently work with. Look around your workplace and bless everything with goodness, uplifting the name of Jesus; it is the most powerful name in the world.  If you cannot do so, then going to work every day with envy, jealousy, covetousness, and a bad spirit in your heart will only harm you, not those you work for or with.  So, the challenge is, change your attitude or change your job.  L.  

Study Reference: 2 Kings 5, Ephesians 6:5-8  
​From: "A Tale of Two Servants."   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Getty Images

​“Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer, and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon Thee; for Thou will answer me.”    Psalm 86:6-7


There are times when we are bombarded with all kinds of issues.  We allow these issues to become our idols, giving them all our time, attention, and devotion. We allow them to take control of our lives, not remembering that above all, there is God. This seems like a grandiose statement. And yet, no problem should take precedence over God; since, every problem is a proving ground for us to use our faith. 

Problems prove our faith. We may not like our problems; yet, they offer proof to all watching that we really are the kinds of Christians that actually believe what we say about Christ. It proves to those watching that we really believe what we sing about Christ. It continues to prove what we think; and, more importantly, how we act when our backs are against the wall and all seems bleak.  Do you really believe, or are you simply playing a Believer on reality television. 

Consider this, everything that you use today, whether it is your cell phone or the toilet, evolved because of a problem.  Something began as a problem and someone created a solution for it. We could not see in the dark, so we created a torch, then a lantern, then a bulb; until, we captured a glowing gas in a tube and called it fluorescence and neon.  Really, is there anything too hard for God? 

Stop and take a look around. Signs of trouble are everywhere, in everything, and yes, even for everyone. For everyone, we have hospitals, supermarkets, malls, entertainment, music, etc.; all providing a solution to a problem. If the solution is not for everyone, it won’t last very long. It will cause another problem, and someone will create a solution to fix that problem. So, if we, with our limited ideas and understanding can create solutions to our mundane problems, then, can’t God provide a solution for our truly grand problems? 
Nothing is above God. There is nothing that can be a problem for you where God cannot offer the solution—nothing!

Today’s text reminds you that, God has promised that in your day of trouble He will answer you, as long as you call on His name.  And, just in case you are still thinking, “There is one problem that God cannot solve, —the problem I’m going through right now!”   Oh really?  Think about this.   God even devised a permanent solution for death, Jesus Christ.  So really, is there anything too hard for God?  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 86:6-7 
From: "In The Day of Trouble."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...”   Proverbs 23:7


We believe that being in prison is living behind bars; however, being in prison can be completely mental.  
You can live behind walls and be free; or, you can live free and still be behind walls.

While watching a documentary on rural India, the show’s host noticed that all the adult elephants were tethered with a small density jute rope secured to young insignificant trees, not more than five or six inches in diameter. When he asked one of the elephant owners how he was able to keep an adult elephant tethered with such an old rope any adult human could easily break, the trainer replied that when the elephants are very young, its trainer ties it to a strong tree using a very strong rope. The baby elephant tugs and tugs, but it is much too young to break the rope. The trainer continues to use the rope until the young elephant accepts that he cannot break free. From that point on, it becomes unnecessary for the trainer to harness the elephant with a heavy rope, any rope will do. When the elephant is mature, large enough to kill its captive owner and break the rope, it does nothing because it has been trained from infancy that any attempt to break the rope is futile. 

The Bible says, “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he;...”   So, your perception is everything!

We often place ourselves in predetermined prisons.  Prisons we create in our minds because of something someone said or did to us; or, something we said or did to them.  Like the elephants in our story, there are paper-thin chains holding us that we believe are high density ropes. --Imaginary ropes that in reality, can be easily broken; yet somehow, we still hold on to the imagery of bondage.  

With the acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Savior, the Bible says, “...old things are passed away, all things become new.”  We have put on a new person who is no longer captive, but free.  Jesus offered you a truly new mindset; a paradigm shift in determining who you are and who you can be! 

If this is something you truly, truly understand, then why are you still keeping yourself tied to that small, minuscule, infant-size, fledgling tree with those silly crepe-paper chains of unforgiveness, self-doubt, unrealized goals, and old self-deprecating thoughts? 
–You have already been freed!  –Simply take one giant step, break that rope, and move forward!  Hallelujah!  L.

Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Proverbs 23:7
From: “Prisons.” In The Master’s Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: kidspot ​​

“For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.  And He said unto me, ‘My Grace is sufficient for thee; for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness.’  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the Power of Christ may rest upon me.”    2 Corinthians 12:8-9
 
 
I was speaking with a homeless man who had not seen his family for a long time. The circumstances of his life had forced him to live on the streets. Yet, for some reason I felt that God wanted me to speak with him, and to minister to him.  Interestingly enough, he spoke to me first and he knew a few things about the Word of God, so our discussion was productive.  Somehow, I was able to tell him some very specific things about his circumstances that took him off-guard. I know that the Holy Spirit was involved because the things that I told him also surprised me.

Then, about midway through our conversation, he said to me, “So, you know a lot about me. —And, I’m not going to lie to you. —You are right about my problems.” Then turning to me, he said, “—So, what about you? What’s your problem? —And, don’t tell me there’s none, Every-one has a problem!”  As he stood there waiting for an answer, he held his gaze. His eyes solidly fixed on me, waiting to see if I would tell him something truthful; and, quietly checking my eyes to see whether I would keep my integrity after talking to him so intently about God. I stood there looking at him, trying to decide if I was going to tell him anything truthful about my own lessons. –All those intimately personal inner lessons that I have learned, which I am now supposed to teach others. 

“Come on,” He said again, “Everybody has got some thing!"   Not responding, I simply looked at him, holding my gaze for a few minutes, quietly hoping that he would give up.  Finally I said, laughing a little, “—You don’t really want to hear my issue.”   But, undeterred and still waiting for me to answer, he said,“—Well, You may not want to tell me; but, I really want to hear it. —So come-on, —everybody has got something!”  Meanwhile, looking at the concrete sidewalk in front of me, I hung my head and I quietly said, “Well, my issue is forgiveness. It is the thing that God has worked with me the most. —It was my lesson and is my weakness!”  He looked at me stunned, and said, “—What!  Oh man! 
–That’s worse than mine!  —That’s worse than everything!  At least I don’t hold any grudges against anyone. “Uh-uh,” he said, shaking his head. “—That’s worse than everything!”  I sat down on the park bench in front of us, looking away.  “It’s true,” I said quietly, “You’re right. It’s worse than everything else. —God hates it.”
 
The truth is that, that homeless man was right!  We all have an issue.  Even the Apostle Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament, had an issue so painful to him, that he called it a “thorn.” A problem that the Bible says, he asked God to remove “three times.”  And yet, God decided not to remove the problem. That’s where we get the verse “...And He said unto me, My Grace is sufficient for thee: for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness...”   2 Corinthians 12:9
 
We are all struggling with some “thing.”  Something that God allows us to work out only by coming to Him. Yet, even then, He may keep it in your life; since, it may have been the only reason that you came to Him in the first place. So remember, every person needs your prayers. –Especially, those whom God has charged with the responsibility of caring for or guiding others.  It keeps them grounded, cared for, and it keeps them human. --But, most of all, it keeps them connected to God.  L.
 
Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:7-12, Micah 7:18-19
From: “Your Thoughts: Thorns.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: zoom comics

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" ...And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And His fame went throughout all Syria; and they brought unto Him all sick people that were taken with diverse diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatic, and those that had the palsy; and He healed them. And there followed Him great multitudes of people from Galilee, from Decapolis, from Jerusalem, from Judea, and from beyond Jordan.”     Mathew 4:23-25 
 

The Mysteries of Jesus, on the History Channel was fascinating.  While watching the program, it was easy to understand why Jesus was such a superstar among the people.  According to the custom, Rabbis, Elders, and the elite of the church were not supposed to interact with "common" folks, or be in physical contact with the sick, dying or dead. They also did not mingle with the poor, outcast, or destitute. They were to mingle only with God or among themselves. Their elitism was so grand that some rabbis had their own private road to the synagogue.  In those instances, a bridge was built from their homes directly to the synagogue to avoid any contact with others. The rabbis would literally walk above the people.  If by chance a rabbi touched a "common" person, he had to endure a series of ritual baths in special cleansing pools located in the synagogue or in his home. 

Then came Jesus!  He set aside the elitism and moved among the people, eating, sleeping, speaking, healing, walking, praying, and most important of all, teaching!  His one ritual bath was His baptism!  No wonder the Sanhedrin elite despised Him and sought to destroy Him while the people followed Him like a rock star!  He was personal then and, He is still personal today. 

So Today,  if you are feeling a little listless and weary, feel free to Praise God on credit!  In other words, —Praise Him, even when you don't feel like it.  —Praise Him, even when you can't see your blessing!  —Praise Him, even when you don't know where your blessing is going to come from.  But, if praising Him is still difficult, then —Praise Him just because He is! —But, if somehow, praising Him because He is, is still not enough; then —Praise Him because YOU  still live and breathe.  —​Hallelujah!   L. 

Study Reference:  Mathew 4:23-25 
From: "Jesus Christ, Superstar!"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: velinda peyton ​

​"...While he was yet speaking, there came also another, and said, “Thy sons and thy daughters were eating and drinking wine in their eldest brother's house.  And, behold, there came a great wind from the wilderness, and smote the four corners of the house, and it fell upon the young men, and they are dead; and I only am escaped alone to tell thee.”  Then Job arose, and rent his mantle, and shaved his head, and fell down upon the ground, and worshiped,  And said, “Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD!”     Job 1:18-21 

 
The first time I read the book of Job in the Bible, I was in shock, literally.  It was one of those instances where I felt particularly ambitious about reading yet another book of the Bible, and somewhere in my memory, I recalled the seniors referring to Job.  If you grew up around your Grandmother’s friends or other senior adults, you may have heard them say at one time or another, “Lord, you got to have the patience of Job to deal with these kids!”  
I remembered this phrase as I was trying to make my decision, so my curiosity about Job made the selection easy.  I began reading page after page; Shock!  Incident after incident; Shock!  If I were reading a disaster novel, it could not have been any more disastrous!  When Job’s wife said, “Do you still retain your integrity? —Curse God and die!” I was stunned!  I had to keep going back to the beginning of the story where God describes Job as “perfect and upright” to confirm that God did not actually hate him.  By the time I finished the book, I simply stared at my closed Bible thinking, “If this is what God does to those that are upright and blameless, what about the rest of us! —We don’t stand a chance!”  I had tons of questions. Over the years, these are some of the principles I have learned after reading the book of Job several times:

•     God knows your heart and how much your spirit is able to endure.
•     Although Satan walks to and fro on the earth, even he honors the will of God.
•     Nothing happens in our life that God is not aware of, cannot stop, and cannot restore.
•     Faith, full and patient, is the only way to make it through any hurdles you may be experiencing.
•     The person you select/ accept as your spouse must love, trust, and have some level of unwavering faith in you.
•     Even if your friends really care about you, they are not always right.
•     And finally, if you are a friend and you offer advice, make certain your advice falls within the will of God; if not, you will be held accountable and will have to make restitution to God.

When you read the book of Job you may find other concepts. I am certain if I reread it today, I would discover new principles I missed previously. I must admit, Job is still not my favorite book of the Bible, however because of his endurance we have a remarkably graphic example of what it means to extend our faith in God, no matter what happens in our life.  L.  

Study Reference: Job 1:1-22, 42:1-17 
​ From: "The Book of Job."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Corey Arnold

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“For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.”   Isaiah 54:10


The covenant that God has forged with humanity is not simply a contract. Any corporate lawyer will tell you all contracts can be broken; there is always a clause that has the plausibility of severance. A covenant, on the other hand, cannot be broken; there are no loop holes. It simply is what it says it is; and, each party must adhere to the binding agreement. 

In our minds, a mountain stands resolute, absolutely stoic and unchallenged by any entity or element. So, when we consider a mountain, the very last thing that we would ever think about is that a mountain can move, disappear, or depart. So just imagine, the Bible says that, the beauty, strength and majesty of a mountain shall depart.–Be completely removed from the face of the earth, but God’s Love, Peace, Mercy, Forgiveness, and Favor will never leave YOU.

If for some reason you are going through something so dreadful that you believe you do not have anything to be truly thankful for, put your feelings aside and meditate on today’s verse. It will help you to find God’s Love in the midst of your issue. 
And, for those of you who truly understand God’s Love in your life, even in the midst of your most arduous circumstances, May God’s Light continue to shine through you and for you. May the abundance of His Love find you and every member of your extended family. 

Whether you have been reading In The Master’s Hands for one day or since the beginning, it is with sincere gratitude that I thank YOU for taking the time to read these words and for being a part of this journey. 

Happy Mother's Day to those who are celebrating this around the world. Thank you once again, and Much Love. -L.

Study Reference: Isaiah 54:10-11
From: "Your Thoughts: Covenant" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: pixabay


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