“…And the Lord said to Balaam, thou shall not go with them; thou shall not curse the people; for they are blessed. And Balaam rose up in the morning and said unto the princes of Balak, get you into your land for the Lord refuses to give me leave to go with you.”         Numbers 22:12-13 
 

King Balak, the Moabite, was in such distress after the Israelites destroyed the surrounding cities in his land, that he sent messengers to petition Balaam, the oracle, to come to Moab specifically to curse Israel. However, Balaam understood that he could only curse those that God allowed him to curse; so at first, he refuses the king’s proposal.  Yet, the king simply dismisses his refusal and raises the bounty.  Lured by the promise of prestige, honor, and wealth, Balaam petitions God yet again, asking if he can fulfill the king's request to curse Israel. God tells him once again not to go to Moab to curse his blessed nation.  However, with much thought and stubborn resistance, he leaves his home to pursue the goal of cursing Israel for the king.

Like Balaam, there are times when we earnestly petition God for an answer, yet we stubbornly ignore His response to our plea because we dislike His response.  Balaam saddles his favorite donkey and embarks towards the city of Moab.  However, unbeknownst to Balaam, God has sent an angel, armed with a sword in hand, to kill him if he persists in traveling the road to Moab.  Although Balaam cannot see the angel standing in the middle of the road determined to seal his fate for disobedience, his donkey clearly sees the angel and the sword.  In fear, the donkey turns off the main road onto a vineyard path. But again, the angel is standing in the way, armed and ready. 

It is interesting that the donkey, a modern-day symbol of stubbornness, is then beaten by Balaam in anger for veering off the road in disobedience to him, his master.  The donkey takes yet a different path where walls line the road on both sides, but he sees the angel again standing with his sword drawn.  Not having room on either side of the angel to move forward, he plows himself into the wall, falling to the ground.  Balaam, angrier than he was the first two times the animal veered off the road, beats the donkey again and threatens to kill him. God opens the mouth of the donkey to speak to Balaam, his master; and then, opens the eyes of Balaam to see the angel with the sword standing in the road ready to kill him. 

Note that Balaam, as the master, readily beat his donkey, and was ready to kill him for his disobedience.  Yet God, as Master, had more compassion on Balaam, allowing him to see the angel that stood ready to kill him for his own disobedience.

Many times in our ignorance and disobedience we defy God’s response to our desire, literally placing our very lives at risk.  Simply because we have petitioned God for a positive answer to something that appears desirable to us, not understanding that it is not in the Will of God.  In our modern world, the story of Balaam would be like getting into your car, traveling a few blocks, determined to do what you clearly know you should not do, and your car gets a flat tire. So, you fix the flat, and a few miles later, the car breaks down.  Then, you get the car fixed, determined to continue with your agenda, and the next thing you know, you get into a major car accident; or worse, someone is reading your eulogy. 

If we are going to ask for an answer, let’s pay attention to the response and obey.  If not, it’s best that we do not ask if we are not going to listen.  At least in not asking, maybe we can plead ignorance.  Because, anytime we decide to do something that God does not want us to do, like Balaam’s donkey, He can use anyone or anything to prompt us back in the right direction.  Or, like the armed angel, to stop us dead in our tracks.   L.

Study Reference: Numbers 22:12-13, Numbers 22:21-34
From:"Not Listening, Not Seeing." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
​Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: crazy frankenstein

​“Then said Jesus to them again, “Peace be unto you; as My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you.”   John 20:21


In Luke 24:33-36, the Bible says, “And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, saying, The Lord is risen indeed and hath appeared to Simon. And they told what things were done in the way, and how He was known of them in breaking of bread. And as they thus spake, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them,"Peace be unto you.”

Jesus said to His disciples after rising on the third day, "Peace be unto you."  I don't believe I ever truly understood the concept of "Peace be unto you," until I reread this story offered in both books of Luke and John.  When we read this story, we find the disciples talking about Jesus and the things He told them during His time with them, pretty much the same way friends sit around today, speaking about someone they loved, after the person has passed away.
As they were speaking, Jesus stood in the midst of them listening. When He made His presence known, He said, "Peace be unto you."   Customarily, people in this region of the world still greet each other today with this statement; however, He could have said a lot of things, why that statement? 

Think about peace for a moment. Not world peace, although that would be great, considering there are about 50+ wars occurring at any given time on our planet; but, inner peace—peace of mind. The feeling you get when your mind is completely at ease.  For some of us, our mind is always in turmoil, no peace.  For others, peace means being in the midst of another person, relying on their peace to get us through.  However, the peace  I am referring to is an individual peace.  The kind you find when you close your eyes, and literally stop thinking about all the cares, troubles, and chaos of this world, allowing yourself the time to actually breathe in the Love of God. 

So today, in the midst of your chaotic life, take some time, even if it's only a few moments, to practice the art of peace.  The kind of peace where you relinquish every single, solitary, mind-wrenching care to God.  And, as Jesus said, “Peace be unto you.”  L.

Study Reference: John 20:19-26 
From:"The Blessing of Peace." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

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​"...And they said one to another, Behold, the dreamer cometh.”  
Genesis 37:19


I attempted to console a friend and neighbor about the prospect of losing her garden-view apartment, by explaining what I like to call, The Law of Receipt. It goes like this; let's say your arms are full of your own personal stuff.
—You know; all the personal stuff you've held on to over the years that really only have meaning to you and no one else. To you, the things in your arms are priceless and their value is purely intrinsic. Every time you look at them, memories come alive in your thoughts and you truly believe they are irreplaceable and priceless. However, these things weigh you down and keep your hands full. You can no longer create new memories because there is no place left to hold or store another thing. Your bills are way overdue, but you cannot "sell" anything because, as you said, your things are priceless. 

Now along comes that Publisher's Clearing House Sweepstakes guy with a $20 million check just for YOU!  —You know, that really big check that you must hold with both hands. However, your hands are full, holding on to stuff that you believe you can't let go of.  What will you do? --Tell him to put the check on the ground, you'll pick it up later? —No! —That would be ridiculous!   You would drop that stuff, grab that check, and scream like a fire engine siren! 

Having vision is the same. The old vision that brought you to the present must die, before the new one that will take you into the future can begin. God's blessings evolve to meet your needs. In order to receive the richness of God's blessing you must drop all the "crap!" --Oops, I mean your personal “stuff,” with all that intrinsic value and open your hands. If your hands are closed, how can you receive anything in the palms of your hands? If your hands are completely full, how can you accept anything new?

This is the simple law of receipt and it carries over into all aspects of your life. In order to receive the richness and continuous evolution of God’s blessings in your life, you must release the old to receive the new. —It really is, just that simple.  L.

Study Reference: Genesis 37:5-6, 37:19-34, 39:1-6 
From: "The Law of Receipt." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Masterfile 

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

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

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

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

Study Reference: Psalm 8:4
Excerpt from: Your Thoughts: “It’s All About YOU” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo:  pinterest /Zohar    
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bring forth its fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither, and whatsoever he does shall prosper.”  
Psalm 1:3


Consider writing out exactly what today's verse means to you. Not simply a translation of the text; but, as God's personal promise to you.  For instance, for me it means that:  

“When I remain resolute concerning God's promise of replenishment in my life, my endeavors will continue to blossom; and, whatever I plan, build, believe, or create within the will of God, will prosper. And, when I stand in faith, resolute on the Word of God, I will be like a tree planted by the water, continuously replenished, nourished, and blessed for overwhelming growth.”

I figure, if God can be massive, my hopes and dreams can be massive too!

Your affirmation can be more specific in regards to your family, career, talents, gifts, health, goals, and yes, even finances. Try making the text so personal to you that, when you feel as if you are failing, or overwhelmed by life, your personal verse will completely replenish you. For example, to see how powerful this verse is in its simplicity, insert your name in the original text below.  You will feel the difference immediately.  Say it out loud.

I, (insert your first name) _____________, shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water that bring forth fruit in my season. My goals, health, wealth, love, and forgiveness shall not wither and whatsoever I do shall prosper. Amen. 

Repeat it again.

This verse, taken from the very first song/Psalm of David, is an absolute prophetic affirmation in the life of Believers; why not embrace it and make it one of God’s wonderful promises to YOU!  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 1
From: "Your Thoughts: Affirmation, Planted by The River."
​In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Daniela Duncan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

​“Above all, taking the Shield of Faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the Helmet of Salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God; praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching there unto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.”
Ephesians 6:16-18


I know you pray for your family; however, please remember to pray for others in your workplace, your building, your block, your city, your state, the nation, and this world.

One New Year's Eve I made the mistake of praying only for my family, friends, and the people in “my building” prior to going to sleep. I gave special relevance to my building because there was a New Year's Eve party occurring in the building's lobby. When I woke up for church the next morning, the building next door had sustained a major fire. The street was cordoned off, and police patrol and news vehicles were everywhere. Two people died, and four others were injured, including children who would later die from severe burns. All because one lovelorn guy decided that he could not live without his already married girlfriend; a woman whose husband had traveled miles with plans to reconcile and reclaim his wife on New Year’s Day. So, Mr. Lovelorn went to a nearby gas station, bought gasoline, and poured it throughout his girlfriend’s family's apartment as they slept, igniting both himself and their escape path. This incident became the first story of the New Year, and was aired all over the nation. The next morning, all I could think about was, not that God had spared and protected "my building" from any damage; but that, if I had just taken a little extra time to pray for "my block" (there are only two buildings on my block),  maybe God would have spared the family and all the displaced residents in the building next door.

I know, it may seem a little far-fetched for some people to understand this; yet, it depends on whether you really believe in the power of prayer to protect us or not. When the angels of God were sent to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, if you recall, Abraham negotiated with God to save both cities; if,  He could find ten righteous people—ten praying people.  And, because He could not find ten people, the two cities were destroyed. So, today when you pray for your friends and family, feel free to run the gamut. Pray for the people on the bus with you this morning. Pray for the other commuters driving to work today. Pray for the vendor who sells your favorite morning beverage. and the one who you normally buy lunch from.  Don't leave anyone out! Pray for all those insignificant people that you never really pay any attention to; because, it just might make the difference between life & death.  L.

Study Reference: Genesis 18:23-32, Ephesians 6:16-18 
From:"Praying For The Multitudes." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell  
photo: istock

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​“...And knows His will, and approves the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law; and art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness; an instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. Thou therefore which teaches another, teaches thou not thyself?”         Romans 2:18-21


A formal mentorship is a type of training where both the student and the teacher have agreed to enter into a relationship of give and take. However, the truth is, every person is called to mentor and to be mentored throughout his or her life on a continuous basis.  At certain times, there will be those sent to you who can, and will, teach you to become a better person, parent, husband, employee, etc. And at other times you will be the person who will teach someone else to become a better person, worker, parent, husband, etc. 

We need to be able to pass on the intimately truthful lessons we have learned throughout our lives to help others overcome the obstacles placed in their way. The more you value your lessons, the more you want to help others by sharing them. Obviously, this also means lessons relating to your walk with God; and, those biblical points you have learned to use to offset the pain of your most intimate trials and tribulations. 

Your intimately personal testimonies may not be for everyone; however, you can trust that if you have learned from it, you will be able to teach from it. So today, why don't you  share your  testimony with someone.  L. 

Study Reference: Romans 2:18-21
From: "Mentorship 101."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: s. atchinson

​"…And as Jesus passed by, He saw a man which was blind from his birth. And His Disciples asked Him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind? Jesus answered, Neither has this man sinned, nor his parents; but that the works of God should be made manifest in him.'”     John 9:1-3


Nick Vujicic is an amazing man who travels the world speaking about the abundant blessings on his life, in an attempt to achieve a personal goal of leading 15 million people to Christ. The thing I found most intriguing about Mr. Vujicic was his optimistic attitude about life, his powerful ability to persevere, and his pragmatic outlook on his missing limbs; you see, Mr. Vujicic has no arms or legs. 

As Mr. Vujicic was reading today’s verse, he felt so blessed when he read the last line, that he literally stopped asking God for limbs! He said he realized that, the way he was born was a testament to God’s miracle and love in his life. There was no reason to ask God “Why?” any longer. –There was now no reason to ask "What" his life’s purpose was; he understood!  But, I have to say,  it was his statement about having an afterlife conversation with Jesus that truly gave me pause. It went something like this:
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“I imagine Jesus asking me two questions, number one; 
"Why did you ask for limbs, didn't you understand that I created you for My Glory?  –You are my walking, breathing miracle! " And, number two; "Whom did you bring with you?”"

Both questions are quite powerful for every person, with or without a disability!  When we look in the mirror, somehow, we needlessly want to change the way we were designed by God.  We believe we are too fat, too thin, too dark, too light, too short, or, too tall; just to name a few.  In our minds, something is always wrong with the way we were created. And, too often, as Christians, we forget that we are supposed to glorify God in all we do, lifting the hearts and minds of those whom we come in contact with, helping them to eventually see Jesus.  How can we do this if we are endlessly complaining about superficial things? 

As I watched Mr. Vujicic’s exuberance for Jesus, his acceptance of his life situation, and his optimistic outlook on his mission to save the world, it made me stop to reconsider my own life.  So consider this. The next time you feel like grumbling about any aspect of your life, or your lack of abundance in any way, check out one his videos on our Media page. There you can see more about his life and hear his personal testimony. 

His personal testimony will cure what ails you, it will remind you to respect the life you have, in the abundance that God has allocated to you.  And, more importantly, it offers a gentle reminder that, when it comes to God, no one is insignificant; every person counts. –Even you!  L.

Study Reference: John 9:1-41, Psalm 139:13-18 
From:"Tested For Abundance."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
​Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: hdwallpapers

“But ye, Beloved, building up yourselves on your most Holy Faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, keep yourselves in the Love of God, looking for the Mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.”    Jude 1:20-21


For some people showing up for church is part duty and part routine. Guilt sets in when we do not attend because we know that it is something that we are supposed to do; our parents did it, our grandparents did it, and now we continue the tradition. Why break the chain?  --It’s true, sometimes we attend for the fellowship, it's where our friends are; and, sometimes in our attendance we receive the only real  interpersonal interactions we may have had all week. But, to really understand why you attend is personal —something that you will have to realize on your own.
—However, I can tell you why I attend. 

There are times when I completely appreciate the music; the soulful timbres of the Praise Team and their high spiritual crescendos can sometimes move me to tears.  There are times when the fellowship is akin to a long awaited family reunion with beautiful attire, good friends, and great food.  However, the truth is, I go to learn.  I go to hear new ways of learning more about Jesus and to understand how not to repeat the mistakes of the past. I know it sounds corny.  It may not even seem real.  Yet, if I am learning some new method to combat the Enemy of my soul, I feel empowered.  Learning helps me to understand how I can use the ancient texts of the Bible to make it through this modern-day world.  It helps me to navigate the highs and lows of daily life.   And, it prompts me to discover new ways of helping someone else. 

For instance, I sat down with my 13 year-old nephew who was having some issues  in school, to explain the Parable of the Talents as found in, Matthew 25:14-30.  Instead of using bags of money or gold as the "Talent," I used the modern meaning of the word, Talent. --Something that you are innately gifted in.  As we read the parable together, I explained why it was so important to use the talent God has given him to the best of his ability.  Since he is gifted in mathematics and spatial design, I urged him to consider architecture or engineering. 

In my interpretation of the parable, I did not have to explain the bottom line to him; he was able to make the final determination on his own.  —If he didn't use his talent, he would lose his talent.  Had I not learned this principle, I could not have taught it to someone else.  And, because I felt empowered with The Word, I was able to empower someone else with The Word.

It is really a simple process.  In  addition to Worship, we attend, so we can learn. We learn, so we can teach. We teach, so others can be saved and empowered by the Word of God to go into all the world.  That's our goal!  L.

Study Reference: Jude 1:20-25
From:"Empowered To Go."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: New Orleans

"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: lifedaily
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“Thou hast set our iniquities before Thee, our secret sins in the light of Thy countenance. For all our days are passed away in Thy wrath, we spend our days as a tale that is told.”      Psalm 90:8-9


“We spend our days as a tale that is told.”    Think about this for a moment.  What does this verse mean to you?

I watched as a middle-aged man prepped the couch in his father's hospital room, so he could comfortably stay to care for him throughout the night while he was hospitalized. Every day he walked with his father in the corridors, hoping to help his Dad become strong enough to leave the hospital. As the time passed, in an effort to comfort his Dad, he would stay most nights on that generic couch, to make certain his Dad received the much needed attention older people need in order to get better and heal faster. To casual onlookers it may have appeared as if he was doing it all for show—a loving gesture done simply to appease the hospital staff and other onlookers. However, when we spoke, what came to mind was that his attention to his father spoke volumes about how his father had lived his life, and possibly how his father treated him and his brother, a younger son who also came on alternate days to care for the father.

On a few of those walks in the corridors, when his sturdy arm was placed firmly on his father's frail arm, I could see the picture—a reverse snapshot of his father’s life, a circle—the completion of a cycle indicating a full life. As I watched them, I could easily imagine those times so many years ago, when the father was the one who had the sturdy arm holding the small hand of his young son.  Now it was the son's turn to hold him up, completing the circle of life —a tale that has already been told countless times.

...As a society, we dismiss the elderly, forgetting that if we dismiss them now, someone will dismiss us later. Writer, Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote, “The years tell us much that the days never know.”  We are the days, they are the years. We forget that our elders have already found many of the answers we now seek in our own lives; and that, by listening to them, they will save us years of wasted energy, redundancy, and most of all—time.

Make room for the aging process; embrace the gray hairs, the wrinkles, and the years in your elders and yourself; they prove you have lived a life of told tales. It solidifies your connection to the knowledge of things. It recalls your experience in loving others. It shouts your hope in tribulations, radiates your faith in trials, and enhances your narrative of time with God.  -And, it allows you to tell your told tale, and complete what will eventually be, your own circle.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 90
Excerpt from:"A Tale Already Told." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock
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“For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, where unto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”     1 Timothy 6:7-12


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

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

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

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

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

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

“As far as the East is from the West, so far has He removed our transgressions from us. Like a father pities his children, so the Lord pities them that fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.”
Psalm 103:12-14


There is a short video about a little boy, maybe three or four years old, contemplating a box of donuts on the kitchen counter. At first, the video does not show the child’s face; his back is turned to the camera as he stands on a chair over the kitchen counter. Off-camera, we simply hear his mother’s admonition, “Don’t touch any of the donuts on the kitchen counter!” His small voice yells back from the kitchen, “O-Kaaaay!”

Unbeknown to the viewing audience, his mother has already told him several times not to touch the donuts. So, stealthy holding the video camera to capture her son’s devious caper from their kitchen’s threshold, his mother asks for the third time, “Did you eat any of the donuts on the kitchen counter?” “-No-ooo.” He replies, seemingly exasperated from the interrogation; his back still facing the camera. Finally, the mother, watching him with the camcorder firmly in hand, continues to videotape her son; and, with his back still towards her; she asks him once again if he has eaten any of the donuts. This time, he turns around and adamantly shouts, “-No!” However, when he faces the camera, his entire face is covered in powdered sugar from the donuts he has already consumed.  The entire viewing audience roars with laughter after seeing the boy’s face covered in a confectionery smile.

It is an extremely funny video for a few reasons; first, the mother had already known he was eating the donuts and that her son was lying to her. Second, even at three or four years old, the son knew he was trying to cover his transgression, but didn't realize the evidence was literally all over his face for the world to see.  And lastly, onlookers, seeing his face covered in powdered sugar, found the entire event humorous; so, like his mother, most viewers had pity on him for his naiveté.

We can imagine ourselves like that little boy, getting into trouble, not understanding that God sees and knows our weaknesses. He knows when we have been in the powdered sugar, believing we have consumed or destroyed the evidence of our transgression, not realizing that the evidence is clearly splattered all over our face. And, since our lives are so complex, traces of our transgressions are littered, like the remnants of powdered sugar, all over the paths we have walked. Like the little boy in the video, we may say, “No!” with our lips, but our actions disprove our words. We understand why the mother laughed, having pity on the transgression of her son; he clearly did not have a full understanding of his error.

Can you see how easy it was for her to forgive his transgression? Can you see how easy it was for her to dismiss his actions due to his naiveté?
Can you also see how easy it would be to forgive him whether he apologized or not? -And, more importantly, can you see how much more his mother’s heart would melt if he came to her and apologized?

If so, you can understand how much our repentance means to God when we have transgressed against Him, and why His compassion is everlasting when it comes to humanity.  -Even in the fullness of our understanding, naive like that small child, God understands that no matter how wonderfully arrayed we are, powdered or not, we are simply dust.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 103:12-14 ​
From: “Powdered Sugar & Dust” In The Master’s Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: wordpress 

​“Lead me in Thy Truth, and teach me; for Thou art the God of my Salvation; on Thee do I wait all the day.”  
Psalm 25:5
 

Sometimes, our personal truth can be relative.  It can change based on a given situation, person, or premise; however, God’s Truth is not relative; it remains constant no matter who we are, what our perspective is, or what premise we apply. For example, gravity is a truth that remains constant. It does not change unless it is not there.
Our circumstances, on the other hand, may appear one way at this moment, and completely different an hour from now.  The Bible says that we wait upon the Lord, because He is our Trust, our Truth, and our Salvation.
 
In a discussion recently, I told a friend that, the reason I try not to manipulate extenuating circumstances around me, is not because I don’t have the intellect or inclination to try; but, because I know that I can only see a very minuscule slice of my life at any given second. God knows the past, present, and future within any given millisecond of our lives, and how it incorporates all the intersecting interactions from every life connected to us. So, unlike you and me, His commands are not contained within any given time frame. It looks into the present, accesses the past, and plans for the future concurrently.  This way, every thought and every decision, will have the maximum impact on our lives, resulting in the precise outcome He ordered. Our decisions, on the other hand, can only take our past and present circumstances into consideration.

So today, before you decide to manipulate something or someone into doing something that you think might work in your favor; why not try asking for God’s guidance and direction instead.  L.
 
**Now, it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal.

Study Reference: Psalm 25:5  
From: "Your Thoughts: Before You Leap." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock 

“And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul; so that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them and the evil spirits went out of them.”     Acts 19:11-12

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Elijah McCoy was one of America's most prolific inventors in the 1870's.  Although he endured the horrors of slavery, this African-American inventor found a love for locomotive steam engines. He transformed steam engines by inventing an oil lubricator, a device in variation, which is still widely used today. All his inventions became so successful that the term, "The real McCoy," was later incorporated into Standard American English to describe whether or not something or someone was truly genuine.

Being genuine is something that is difficult for most of us to do. We are bombarded with marketing concepts that tell us we need to be anything but ourselves. Every advertised product, from cars to soft drinks, is used to transform us from a unique work of God, to a trendy member of the pack. So, the continuation of the biblical passage described above, found  in Acts 19:13-16 is quite powerful. Many people read this story and condemn the priest and his sons for attempting to cast out a demon, who instead, sends them running, beaten, and naked. However, let’s look at them a little differently.

Imagine for a moment, the marketing strategy of their day, let's call it, "—tell-a-neighbor." At the time, sons were groomed to go into the profession of their fathers. If your father was a silversmith, chances are, you would become a silversmith.
Since priests were revered, it was only befitting that Sceva, a priest with seven sons, would corner the market by placing a son/ priest in every neighborhood. This strategy, called franchises today, would have easily enlarged the fame and wealth of the entire family.  So, in an effort not to become obsolete, Sceva, the priest, tries his hand at a new promotional campaign. "Call Sceva & Sons,!  -We cast out demons and heal the sick!”   A campaign designed to downplay all the hoopla surrounding that new guy named, Paul; a staunch and powerful disciple of Jesus.

Since it is relatively easy for us to simply backslide and do what we did prior to knowing Jesus, it was just as easy for the Ephesians to turn back to Sceva and his sons.  After all, it was Sceva who they went to for help prior to Paul’s arrival in Ephesus! We can just imagine Sceva’s sons sitting around the kitchen table strategizing with their father, trying desperately to come up with an idea strong enough to lure the people back to them, saying:

“The news has been spreading all over town! This new guy Paul is casting out demons all over Ephesus in the Name of Jesus!  The whole city is trying to get to him. In the meantime, our business/ ministry is way down. -Sons, What are we going to do about it?”   “Dad, -I have an idea! Since we really don’t believe in this guy Jesus, all we have to do to cast out demons is to call on the Name of Jesus whom Paul preaches about!”    “-Hmmm,... Great idea son!”

Then, they put on all their priestly garments; and, in an effort to exorcise the demon, they called him out!  Imagine their horror when a genuine demon came out, and instead responded, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but, WHO are YOU?”  He then leaped on them and proceeded to strip and beat each one of them.

This is a great story for all, but especially for Christians. It entreats us not to believe in the promotion of ourselves when it comes to Jesus Christ, but to believe in and promote Jesus Christ for His own sake.  Self-promotion is fine, if that’s what you genuinely want to do. However, make certain that you do not portray that it is all about God when it is genuinely all about you; or, you may just find yourself on the run, beaten, and naked.  L.

Study Reference: Acts 19:11-20
From: “The Real McCoy.” In The Master’s Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo:  Aidan Photograffeuse

​“…For the Kingdom of Heaven is like unto a man that is a householder, which went out early in the morning to hire laborers into his vineyard. ...So when even was come, the Lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the laborers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.”      Matthew 20:1, 8-10 
 

Matthew 20:1-16, is a parable given by Jesus to His disciples when a very wealthy man walks away sorrowful, after he learns he must forsake his wealth to follow Jesus in order to inherit eternal life. The parable follows one of the most famous lines in the Bible, “…Verily I say unto you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:24)   

It is a perplexing parable like all the other parables Jesus taught His disciples while He walked among them.  However, this one has even greater implications for modern Christians.  Consider this; the parable speaks to those who accepted Jesus early in their lives, living the principles of Christianity, versus those who gained the wisdom of accepting the Gospel towards the end of their lives. 

Those who accepted the Gospel at the beginning of their lives accepted it for very little, maybe this person is you; you were young, heard the Word, and simply believed.  You did not need to witness the miracles of Jesus in your life, you simply believed and adhered to a straight and narrow path. It was all you asked, and for your belief and faith, payment will be the inheritance of eternal life.  Those who came to God closer to the end of their lives, possibly someone you believe has lived an unrighteous life for instance, asked for more; more love, more miracles, more faith, and more time, as shown by the ragged, frayed edges of their life. God agreed; and their payment will be the same inheritance, eternal life. Yet, we have the same old debate, "Does the thief on the cross inherit eternal life equally as the man who repented or followed Christ early in his life?"  Does God honor your lifelong repentance the same as the person who repented on his deathbed? 

As Christians, we would like to believe God honors all repentances the same, no one is greater than another, no sin is lesser or greater than the other. In James 2:10 the Bible says, if you commit one sin you are guilty of all. Yet, in our scant human understanding, we place our own sins in some type of hierarchy, as if we believe God says, “Hmmm… his sin wasn't as bad as the murder in the first degree committed by…”  And so, we live our lives trying to make up for the sins we committed throughout our lives as if we have to, forgetting that we are all saved by Grace.  Upon our baptism we are dead to sin; Jesus stands in our stead with God.  Does this mean we can continuously dishonor God by repeating and repenting as we go? Well,... yes; at our very lowest we can, but it is a ridiculously hard way to live. Living on the straight and narrow path is hard enough. 

Ideally, we live to maintain a higher standard for our lives, because as Christians it shows our love, reverence, and respect for Jesus’ sacrifice of His life for ours.  Why would anyone wait until the end of their life, or possibly their very last breath to make a commitment to God?  What are the chances that you will make your commitment in time to repent for a lifetime spent away from God?  L.   

Study Reference: Matthew 20:1-16
From: “Different Deal, Same Pay.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock