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


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

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

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

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

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

​
​“Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shall thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shall be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.”  
Psalm 37:3-5


The Children of Israel learned how to move with God. —But, let’s be real, they really did not have a choice. The presence of God was within their sight as a beautiful cloud, keeping them sheltered from the desert sun by day; and, as a pillar of fire by night, keeping them warm and toasty from the harsh desert wind. They moved when God moved. For them, moving was easily discernible; they could see God’s presence with their eyes.  However, given only their faith to go on today, I wonder how they would react. 

Praying and waiting for God to tell you when to leave or not, you have to admit, can be a little frustrating. Suppose it’s a move to a job you need? Or perhaps, moving from an undesirable situation to what appears to be another undesirable situation? Or, for that matter, staying put? And, this is when you actually have an opportunity to leisurely select between one decision or another. What happens when you feel desperate? What about when your bills are piling up, the cupboards are bare, and you can’t find the resources. What then? 

The Children of Israel had an amazing visual every day and evening to keep them focused. You do not have God in your sight. --Or, do you?  We see God’s beauty in the earth every day. We have only to look around to see the marvelous works of His hands.  In addition to this, we have His Holy Word as our guide; and, our prayers as our conversations with Him. No matter how much we may lack patience, our Bible says to pray for what we need. So, whether it is an answer to a problem, or help in discerning between several options, like the Children of Israel, we always have God within our midst.  Most of all, remember that our Bible says in Psalm 37:3-5, 
“Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shall you dwell in the land, and verily you shall be fed. Delight thyself also in the LORD; and He shall give thee the desires of your heart. Commit your ways unto the LORD; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass.”
​
Continue to trust, pray, and have faith. --You will know precisely when He needs YOU to move.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 37:3-5   
From: "Moving With God." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Yasu+Junko

​​“A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled. Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”        
​Proverbs 18:20-21 

                     
Are you speaking ailments into your life?  It is perplexing how many Christians speak ill health into their lives without really understanding or knowing that they are doing it. So many of us do it every day, it has become our mantra; a custom-made ailment specifically spoken and created by us, for us. 

For instance, “You are going to give me a heart-attack!”  “You’re a pain in the neck!” “I’m going to have a fit!”  “It’s driving me crazy!” “They’re getting on my nerves!”  “He’s a pain in the @#$%!”  Although these sayings are commonplace and seem innocent enough, they are not. They are actual affirmations spoken out loud by most of us everyday which are not conducive to our physical or mental health.  

Although it is customary to ask others how they are feeling, most of us really do not want to hear a pharmaceutical list of ailments and ills.  Yet, there are some people that, every time you call them, they are literally falling apart.  So much so, you find yourself falling in line with their conversation, reciting your own laundry list of ailing body parts.  It is infectious!  Rebuke it!  When you are around others who speak illness into their lives, do not fall prey to the trap.  Resist the urge to add your own list to their repertoire.  Feel free to pray for them, but do not fall prey to reciting your own list.  Instead, the next time you speak to someone who is an “A-Lister,” my specific term for a habitual ailment-lister, tell them how very blessed you are to be walking in the light of God’s love and health.  If you do this enough times, you can be certain that the person will eventually stop offering you a list of their ailing body parts.  If you are this person, you are literally making yourself sick.

Speak health, wellness, and rejuvenation into your life.  As a child of the Most High God, healing is a part of your legacy.  When Jesus went to Calvary He bore all our curses, diseases, pain, torments, ailments, and the like.  Why call it back to yourself when you really don’t have to?  Today, claim health, and speak Life!  L. 

Study Reference: Proverbs 18:20-21, Psalm 103:3-5
From: "Speaking Health." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: water lily/istock

​"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:  Zohar    
 

​“[I am] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [I am] perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”      2 Corinthians 4:8-9


Be strong in whatever difficulties you are going through today.  Know that God loves you; and, that the issues you are going through will subside. Oftentimes, when we are going through deeply personal trials, we tend to be at our weakest —exposed, and exhausted.  Yet, it is precisely in our weakness that God teaches us how to persevere using His Strength, not ours. It is in our perseverance that we literally become our strongest. —So, just consider it a strength and endurance exercise to gain Power for your spirit.

In our weakness and sheer exhaustion, we learn how to relinquish our mind, body, and spirit to God; and, how to truly pray in earnest.  It is in those times that we actually learn what the Bible means when it says, "lean not" on our own understanding, but on our Faith in God.

Added below is another text which will strengthen your spirit. I changed the "we" to "I" and the "your" to "my;" to make the text more personal.  Try it now; it will strengthen your spirit! —Simply repeat it; and, keep repeating it until you actually feel God’s Power.

"[I am] troubled on every side, yet not distressed; [I am] perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed.”   2 Corinthians 4:8-9
"That Christ may dwell in [my heart] by Faith, that [I], being rooted and grounded in Love may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the Love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that [I] might be filled with all the Fullness of God.”     Ephesians 3:18      

Breathe. Then, do it again.      
                                                                                       
When you are finished, know that God is strengthening you with His Power and His Love, giving you everything you need to be victorious!   L. 
​
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verses in your journal.
​
Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 4:8-9, Ephesians 3:18
From: “Your Thoughts: Power.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: Rakiyah​

​…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: fern/ istock

​"And God blessed them, and God said unto them, Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth.” Genesis 1:28 
 

Are you a control freak?  Do you struggle with the need to control others?  There are two extremes —the need to control and the laissez-faire attitude where anything goes.  Most of us fall somewhere in the middle.  There are elements of control that enable our society to function orderly, and there are times when a little chaos within order promotes fun and creativity.  The brilliant among us find ways to combine both extremes to produce the best results. 
​
Many years ago, I worked with a man who fit the control freak title to a tee.  The issue with control freaks is that, in their effort to control every aspect of their life, they believe they can control the overlapping aspects of the lives of others.  It’s easy to see how this can lead to a totally frustrated life. A control freak is really hiding his/her inadequacies, especially the inability to adapt to change. And, if there is one thing we know for sure, it’s this; change is a vital part of living, and, everything must change!  Unfortunately, an inability to change brings obsolescence; and with it, antiquated ideas concerning the reality of the world-at-large.   

Here's the thing to remember when you decide you will be the ultimate control-freak. God created the world, yet He did not control Adam or Eve.  He allowed them to determine their destiny, and ultimately ours.  Jesus, who loves us dearly, could have manipulated the events leading to Calvary and His crucifixion; yet, He did not. So, here is my question. Why would you believe you can control elements outside of yourself?  Why would you believe being the ultimate control-freak will work for you?  

The fine art of being Christian is the ability to relinquish all cares, problems, and even people to God.  In our growth we gain the understanding that we can only control ourselves, and even this, takes work. God gave us dominion; however, He gave us dominion as stewards, not as despots who would not acknowledge His sovereignty.  So, today, leave room for the Spirit of God to come in.  –Pray it up, let it go, and let God handle it!   L.

​Study Reference: Genesis 1:26-31
​From: "The Control Factor."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​“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

“… Jesus said unto them, a Prophet is not without honor, but in His own country, and among His own kin, and in His own house.”   Mark 6:4
 

In October 2009, U. S. President Barack Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize; a prize more closely associated in the U.S. with the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for his efforts in utilizing non-violence as a standard in public disobedient protests. There was so much hoopla in American politics concerning the award, yet surprisingly, not in the rest of the world.  The international community saw it as a commendation for his genuine congeniality and peaceful stanch in reaching out to the rest of the world. The interesting thing about the Nobel Peace Prize is that, it is a commemorative prize named for its benefactor Alfred Nobel, a man who created a product primarily used in wars. 

Alfred Nobel was a prolific inventor and businessman; he loved literature, chemistry, and physics. Truly multilingual, he was fluent in German, English, Swedish, Russian, and French.  His relentless experiments to increase the marketability of nitroglycerin, would eventually lead him to the invention of dynamite, ultimately launching him into immense wealth. 

Towards the end of his life, he would leave the majority of his enormous fortune ($40 million in 1896) to benefit the Nobel Prize.  The prize offers international recognition and a substantial monetary grant to its recipients.  It is given to those who perform in excellence; aiding humanity in chemistry, literature, physiology, physics, medicine, and the promotion of peace, without regard to the nominee’s creed, race, gender, or nationality.  Many believe that the Nobel Peace Prize was an effort to atone for his invention of dynamite; an invention that killed thousands of people in his lifetime; and has continued to kill millions more since his death. 

It is true; the Nobel Prize has added international recognition to otherwise obscure individuals whom very few of us would know if it were not for the prize.  And, there is no doubt; Jesus would have been the ultimate honoree for his life’s work as a peacemaker.  –Or, maybe not.  After all, He was the one who actually made the comment found in  
Mark 6:4, today's verse. 

We do not know if Alfred Nobel’s, Nobel Peace Prize, atoned for creating one of the most destructive devices used in accelerating the destruction of mankind; however, it leaves us with the example that wealth cannot buy atonement or salvation. There is only one who can offer atonement for sins committed against humanity, and that is Jesus Christ, the ultimate Peace Prize recipient.  Whether or not you agree with the politics of your nation, take the time to pray for your President, Prime Minister, King, Queen, or Despot; and, all the leaders within your midst.  Since, like King David in his decision to number the Israelites, one bad egotistical decision from them, can lead to the destruction of thousands, quite possibly millions. –So yes, today, pray for your leaders; pray for the presence of peace.  L.  

Study Reference: Mark 6:4, 2 Samuel 24:10-19   
From:"The Presence of Peace."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
​Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: bigstock

“The LORD bless thee, and keep thee. The LORD make His Face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The LORD lift up His Countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”     Numbers 6:24-26


I was speaking with a longtime friend of our family, who, many years ago, was invited to church by my Mother and her best friend.  As it turns out, she kept visiting the church until she became a baptized member; this was about 18 years ago.  As we were having a discussion on the question of Bible Study, she said, “It's true. I really should know my Bible more.”   I looked at her and asked, “Why do you think you attend church or read your Bible?    She looked at me as if she knew I was asking a question I planned on answering. “It’s so you can speak to others about Jesus.” I continued. “It may be a little bit more complex than that, because, there are people who should work within the church; but primarily, it is to speak to others about Christ. The more you know, the more you can respond to their questions when they ask you about God. And, you can be sure, they will ask!”  I said.

She thought about what I said for a moment and she got very excited, as if she had just remembered something significant.  Then, she looked at me with her eyes sparkling and said: 

“You know, while I was in a store shopping a few days ago, a woman I had just passed in the aisle came up to me and said, “Excuse me, are you a Christian?”   “Yes.”  I said, wondering what made her ask. “Oh,” said the woman, “Can you pray for me?”  I was so surprised that the woman asked me to pray for her, I smiled and said, “Oh, yes!”  I felt blessed that somehow she knew that I was a Christian; and, even more blessed that God was using me to intercede on her behalf.  I held her hands, and just as I was about to begin praying for her, another woman walked up and said, “I’m sorry, are you about to pray?  —​I overheard your conversation and I have so much to thank God for!  Just this morning I asked God for a job and He just answered my prayer!  --Can I join?”   

Our friend, surprised at the first request, was even more surprised by the second request!  Nevertheless, all three women locked hands, and in the middle of the store aisle, she began to pray for both women.

When you are a Christian, the very Light of God shines so brightly within you, your countenance changes!  Christ places such an indelible mark on your life, it is discernible by all.  You do not have to tell anyone that you are a Christian, they will know. They will see it in your temperament, your actions, your compassion, and your heart. 
—It will be so prevalent in your life, even perfect strangers will see His reflection in you. L.

Study Reference: Numbers 6:24-26 
From:"Reflecting The Light." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: bigstock

"…Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness
​of God.”    James 1:19


What does it take to truly make you angry? --Tick you off?  --Send you into a rage?  Are you hot-headed, quick-tempered, and able to add a retort faster than Superman can stop a speeding bullet?  Is everyone in your midst desperately trying not to crack the eggshells you so strategically placed around you?  If so, today’s biblical verse was created just for you. 

As Christians, it should take a lot for us to truly get angry.  We should not allow most things to rile our peace or push us to anger. It should take true effort on the part of a perpetrator to push us over the top. It may not be like this for you now; it may take a conscious effort on your part, and age—yes, age.  The old adage is true, wisdom actually comes with age; because, the older you become, the more you discover that most things are simply not that deep to you anymore.

One of the things I have also noticed is, although I have become even more discerning in the friendships that I cultivate, I have also become more tolerant. I now take into consideration the triggers that may prompt another person to react negatively.  It could be my words, a conflicting viewpoint, or even a misunderstanding in how we interpret the same incident.  So now, I continuously remind myself of the text found in Ephesians 4:29:

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”  

The trouble with this text is, it is not supposed to be used by the other person on you; it is supposed to be spiritually implemented by you on them!  It is not that you give up, concede, or relinquish your position to the other person; you simply make a determination not to push yourself or the other person, so far to the edge, all involved can maintain their self-control.  Obviously, you cannot control the thoughts or actions of others; however, when you begin to think of yourself as an edifier of others, it becomes increasingly difficult to tear them down and quite easy to see their position.  Sometimes, it is relatively easy to allow them to say whatever they like, knowing it will not affect your status as a child of God.  In any case, you will find that you are able to administer a truce when you clearly see the beginnings of a war; or, simply walk away when you have determined there is no other option.  

You have the option of controlling your anger, or allowing your anger to control you.  Sometimes, it is as easy as remaining silent and refraining from a snappy retort; at other times, it will mean walking away with a solid amicable agreement to disagree. Either way, you win. You would have maintained your position, your self-control, and self-respect; but, more importantly, you allowed the other person to maintain theirs.   L.

Study Reference: James 1:19, Ephesians 4:29  
From: "Slow to Anger." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Craig/ 500-px

​“Therefore I say unto you, what things so ever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought against any; that your Father also which is in heaven may forgive you your trespasses. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.”    Mark 11:24-26


As Christians we have been told how important it is to pray about any matter we are perplexed about or need an answer to. We have been told to simply “ask and you shall receive.” And, for the most part, many Christians can paraphrase the verse in Mark 11:23 which says, if we ask in prayer for a mountain to move, believing in faith it will move, our prayer will be answered. Not necessarily a physical mountain, but a problem appearing mountainous in our lives. However, there is one small caveat that has been somehow overlooked; one that has a concrete connection to the prayer response we so desperately desire from God. 

In the selected verse above, Jesus begins the verse by saying whatever you desire, when you pray, believe you shall receive it, and you shall have it. However, He goes on to state, as you are praying, you must forgive anyone whom you may have an issue against, so that God may forgive you. If you do not forgive, God will not forgive you for the acts committed against Him. 

This was a huge awakening for me. I realized a long time ago that the same statement is in the Lord’s Prayer; however, I do not believe I ever made its connection to the many personal requests, pleas, or petitions I earnestly placed before God for an answer. Forgiveness is not about the other person, it is about YOU.  I do not know about you, but I just may have a list of people blocking my many prayer requests; because, I have been too stubborn to forgive them. 

What about you? Is there a dam filled with blessings waiting to be released to you, yet lingers in limbo, because you have been too stubborn to forgive? Maybe the very act of forgiveness should be this year’s gift to yourself. L.

Study Reference: Mark 11:23-26 
From: "A Gift to Yourself." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wild at heart

​
​"And grieve not the Holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you with all malice; and be kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you”    
Ephesians 4:30-32

​
Forgiveness is a major issue for most people; and yet, it is detrimental to harbor resentment, unforgiveness, anger, hatred, and fear.  No matter how content we may appear on the outside, each one of those characteristics correlates to many of the things that ail our bodies and plague our lives. 

Expanding on tomorrow's thought, “A Gift to Yourself,” if you are trying to figure out how to begin the process of forgiving someone who has hurt you deeply, start by praying for yourself and that person. Praying for the other person is a vital component.  Ask God to forgive you for not being able to forgive that person; and, ask for His help in beginning the process. Ask Jesus to come into your heart, so that you can use His Strength and His Love in forging a path to forgiveness.  Ask Him to place a sense of forgiveness in your heart to disable any obstacles you may have in actually forgiving the person. This is not a lip-service exercise.  It is a meditation to begin the cleansing of your spirit and the opening of a more abundant life through the Spirit of God.   It is the act of forgiveness that cleanses both your spirit and that of the other person, whether they know it or not; and, whether they acknowledge it or not. 

Start by placing a mental image of Jesus in the place of that person. The very act of placing Jesus in place of the person you want to forgive makes the process of forgiving clearer.  By placing Jesus in front of the person, instead of your love, with its defined limitations, you’ll see the very Spirit of Jesus Christ standing in their place. The resentment, anger, and fear will begin to subside as you begin to clearly see their weaknesses as well as your own. Compassion becomes fuller; forgiveness becomes stronger; love becomes easier. 

The simple act of placing Jesus in place of the person(s) you need to forgive, helps you to forge a path to forgiving others, thereby, accelerating your healing process and spiritual development. Forgiveness is a gift from God to you; your acceptance of God’s forgiveness pays it forward to others, allowing His gift to continue giving in perpetuity.

Ultimately, the act of forgiveness from you is really not for anyone else, it is a gift from God to you; and from you back to God. L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 4:1-32
From:" Accepting The Gift."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: fondos animados

“But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for Himself; the Lord will hear when I call unto Him.”
Psalm 4:3


Most people believe that they “find” God on their own, not realizing that God has always been there patiently waiting for them to seek Him. Yet, for most Believers, there will be times when God will prod you to speak to someone about Jesus in order to help them understand more about His Love.

Today’s verse reminds us that God sets apart those that are godly for Himself; but, quite often, He also sets apart those that are wallowing in the midst of sin; since, unlike us, He knows their heart and their future. 

Think about it. He set aside Zacchaeus, a hated and thieving tax collector who hid in a tree, hoping that he could look at God without being seen. He set aside each of His disciples, including Judas, while they were in the midst of doing their regular daily routine. He set aside Paul, stopping him cold; a man who, in his zeal to uphold the religious traditions of the past, was on his way to murder Christians.  —He even set aside you and me.  So remember, no one is lost until their very last breath; and even then, there's Grace.  Every single person can be touched by God, even while they are in the midst of doing something that you consider ungodly. 

It doesn’t matter if someone is hiding, working, or zealous about doing something insane, they can still be touched by the Spirit of God. —Just a little something for you to remember the next time you are making a decision on “who”you should speak to about the Love of God. L.

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal. Don't forget to make it personal to you.​

Study Reference: Psalm 4:3
From: “Your Thoughts: Set Apart (I).”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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​“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thing made that was made.”    John 1:1-3

"And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him,the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD;”  Isaiah 11:2  (The Spirit of  Jesus) 

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“Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation.”  Psalm 5:1  


A Life Coach is someone who, using motivational techniques can help you to get your life up and moving in the right direction. As a life-coach, you enable others to find their purpose using their core beliefs about themselves at the highest level.  For many years others have encouraged me to embrace this ideology as a profession, because of my ability to help others find their direction. For me, it began very early; right out of college I was selected for my company’s executive training program.  As a young executive, I embraced all those motivational techniques to empower my team. However, I always felt that something was missing, but I couldn’t figure out what it was. –I was already a Christian, so my belief was solid; I knew God. Yet, somehow, I just didn’t understand what the key ingredient was that I thought was missing.  It really wasn’t until years later as I began to write, In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living, that I realized what the missing ingredient was.   All that corporate training and motivational techniques, and somehow, I still missed the real reason why my team always did well.  What I eventually realized was that it was my belief in God that made the difference. –It was Bible study and all those motivational Bible stories ingrained in my head since childhood. That’s what made the difference! It was the stories of Joseph, David, Abraham, Samson, Gideon; and most of all, Jesus. 

Your belief changes everything. It changes how you think, what you say, and what you really believe about life at your core. It is your belief in the power of God that fosters your motivation, not your motivation that fosters your belief. It is not bowing to “the universe” as some new-age philosophies would have you believe.  It is bowing in worship and supplication to the One who made the universe, the earth, and YOU. When I began writing, I realized that my core belief in The Almighty God, and His awesome power to produce above and beyond anything that I could ever ask or think, was the lubricating oil of my engine. And, it was God that fostered my faith, perseverance, and success.  

The Bible, in 1 Corinthians 1:25, 27-28, says, “...the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men.  ...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 nought things that are...”
So, if you are reading today, and you are not a Believer, then today, I am not speaking to you. One day, when you become a Believer, you will understand.  But, if you are a Believer, then I really want you to continue reading.
You have been given enormous power by choosing to Believe in God Almighty.  Jesus, referring to the miracles that he performed said; "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on Me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.”  John 14:12   In other words, "You will do greater things than these because I go to My Father!” 

But, for many of us, it comes down to the Words we speak every day. We continuously either tell ourselves self-deprecating thoughts, or we utter words out loud that profess our fears, disbelief, and powerlessness. We focus on our obstacles instead of our desired outcome as written in the Word of God, that says, “Fear not!” and, “Nothing used against us as Children of God will prosper.” Period!  The power that God gave us through the utterance of our words, places a thought within us, and with it we gain the ability to blossom beyond our current circumstances or fail because of it.  If we focus on God’s promises to do beyond all that we can ask or think, oftentimes, the thought is internalized in us so deeply, it transforms us beyond recognition. And so, God’s Word powered with our words becomes our profession of power!

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made...”  We know that the Word is Jesus. Use the utterance of your words to determine your destiny. You already do it every day without thinking. But, now that you know, make a conscious habit to focus on the Words you utter. Think of them as power seeds that you plant wherever you go. What you say is up to you! –You will either sow weeds that choke your spirit and the spirits of others; or, you will sow seeds of Love, healing, forgiveness, and prosperity. Either one will bloom and prosper; however, the one you will reap is the one that you have sown.  So, plant wisely!

My seed prayer for you today:
Lord, remove the spirit of fear that exists in the lives of Believers. Give me the power to go onto the people of the world to profess the awesomeness of Your Name, Glory, and Spirit. There are so many people who are sick in their spirits. They walk this planet without any understanding that only You can alleviate the gaping hole in their life. Help me as a Believer to accept Your power to speak, the fearlessness to act, the power to pray, and the willingness to aid others in fully understanding, by Your Spirit, who Jesus is! Open opportunities in my life and the lives of all those reading for us to be true disciples for the Spirit of God in this world. Allow our lives to be a true testimony for the Love of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen. 

Study Reference: John 1:1-5, Isaiah 11:2, Psalm 5:1, John 14:12, 1 Corinthians 1:25-28
From: "The Power to Profess!"   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: unknown

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​"But now are they many members, yet but one body. And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.  Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble are necessary…”   
1 Corinthians 12:20–22  
 

Every time I read this text, it reminds me of a terrific story my mother used to tell us as children, that has stayed with me for many years. The story, a whimsical tale about feuding body parts, reminds me of the overt egotism that sometimes occurs after accepting a church office or position.  The story goes like this.

One day, all the body parts were having a discussion concerning which organ was the most important to the body.  The eyes said, “I am the most important because I help us to see!”   The nose said, “I am the most important because without me we can’t smell the wonderful food we eat!”   The mouth said, “Well, without me, there would be no food!”   The stomach growled, “Ump! I consume the food that gives energy to the entire body!”  

Little by little all the body parts professed their overall importance to the body-at-large.  Every organ was involved in the debate except one.  After every organ had spoken their part, and the yelling was over, they heard a small voice coming from the bowels.  “I think I am the most important because I get rid of all the things we don’t need, keeping the body clean so we can function…and…” —Before the bowels could finish giving the others his rationale, the other parts began to scream with laughter.  “What?  Ha, ha, ha!  They were hysterical!  “You? --You can’t really believe youare the most important!”  They all yelled, “--It may not be me, but one thing is for sure--it’s not you!” 

Bowels was a little embarrassed, but stood firm.  He tried to figure out what he could possibly do to get the others to understand how vital he was to the whole body.  Then it hit him, “Okay, to show you how important I am to each of you; and, that you cannot function without me, I am going to shut down for 3 days.” They all laughed even harder!  “ --Ha, ha, ha! Big deal!” 

The first day, all the body parts were fine; they were laughing and teasing bowels that all was still wonderful in the body without him.  The second day, the parts were a little sluggish, but still functioning as usual.  But, by the third day, eyes couldn't stay open, nose was congested, heart was beating slower, legs were tired, and stomach wouldn't eat.  One by one, all the parts said, “What’s going on?” “I don’t feel well!  “We’re not moving properly!”  “Oh no! I just want to lay down.”  Bowels began to laugh.  “See, I told you!  --Now do you believe me?”  One after another, they pleaded with bowels to do his job so that they could function properly.  As he started to work, each body part acknowledged that the bowels were the most important body organ and they could not function without him. 

This story always reminds me of the text found in 1 Corinthians 12:20-25, in its reference to the body of Christ.   Sometimes, we forget how important all members are to a church, not simply for their monetary contributions, but for their very presence.

Yes, all members are important in a church organization; from the pulpit to the pews, from hospitality to sanitation, from the youngest child to the oldest adult; each brings significance to the body of Christ. Not one is disposable, —not one.  But the most important One is the One who washes our sins away. The One who continuously cleanses the body, frees the mind, and renews the spirit—Jesus Christ.   L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:20-25, Ephesians 4:15-16
From; "One, Unifying." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Couleur

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

I had a discussion with my Mom a few years ago concerning my idea of excellence.  "That's what's wrong," she said, “You always want people to offer their best; but, not everyone is like that!"   "—Uh?" I said, "It doesn't matter to me whether they are like that or not, that's what I expect. —Why wouldn't everyone want to offer his or her best? What's the point of doing it, if you don't do your best? What happens if you drop dead tomorrow? All people can say about you, is that you were mediocre! –And, that you barely lived up to your potential! —Listen, I might not receive their best, but I always expect their best!" 

As you can see, she was barely making a dent in my thought process. We understand that sometimes our best is just barely good given the circumstances.  However, if our lives reflect Jesus Christ, shouldn't everything we do reflect our best?  Let's say that you ask God for something specific; and, somehow you have a visual in your mind of what it is.  When you receive it, doesn't it always exceed your expectations? 

Speaking with her television audience, billionaire media mogul, Oprah Winfrey, recalled the day when she stood daydreaming, as a little girl, while washing dishes in her childhood home. As she washed the dishes, she began staring out the window over the sink at the lone tree in her backyard.  Looking out the window at the tree, she began to contemplate the number of trees she needed in her future backyard that would make her feel truly wealthy. With the hopes and dreams of a child, she began her count with 3 trees; but, she did not stop there. “Maybe, she said, There should be four trees..., no five trees..., no six trees! " Then, she thought to herself, "–Yes, I would truly be wealthy if I could see 7 trees from my kitchen window!"  And so, she prayed a little child's prayer to God, to place seven trees on her land that she could see from her kitchen window while washing the dishes. 

Fast-forward 40+ years.  Several years ago she bought a mansion in California. One day, as she was washing the dishes in her new kitchen, she looked out the window perched over the sink, admiring the magnificent landscape that the kitchen window overlooked.  Looking at all the trees in blissful reverie, she suddenly remembered her childhood prayer to God; and, understanding the fullness of her blessing, she began to weep.  She could not count all the trees on her land! 

Be the best you can be; offer the best you can offer; and, do the very best you can when you can; because, God will always transcend your expectations.   L. 

Study Reference: John 17:4, Matthew 5:14-16
From: "Transcending Expectations." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
*Photo credit: Ag Right/ J. Knutson