"Who is a God like unto Thee, that pardons iniquity, and passes by the transgression of the remnant of His heritage? He retains not His anger forever, because He delights in mercy. He will turn again, He will have compassion upon us; He will subdue our iniquities; and Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea.”    Micah 7:18-19

 
A few months ago, I was looking at some photos, and saw today’s photograph by Jason DeCaires Taylor, an artist who sculpts various life-sized subjects and places them in the shallow waters off the coast of various countries. As I looked at the photographs, I recalled today’s verse in which God has promised that whatsoever He has forgiven of Believers, He will place in the bottom of the sea, not to be remembered any more.

Yet sometimes, we forget that, when God says He has forgiven you for the sins of your past, He really has forgiven you for the sins of the past.  And yet still, God takes it one step further; He tells us that He “will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.”  —What most people do not know is that, the ocean depth is so deep, that no human or any of the machines that we have created can go into the true depths of the ocean floor.  Our man-made machines and diving gear simply cannot withstand the pressure of the ocean.  The closest that we have gotten is 6500 feet below the surface of the ocean, and even at that level, there are still fish and other sea creatures that we have never seen. 
So, 6500 feet/ 1981.2 meters, is just the tip of the ocean depth.  

In other words, like a steel vault covered by the immeasurable pressure of the ocean, God has placed our sins under the ocean floor so that once He has forgiven us, no human can access it, dig it up, or drag it back to the shoreline of the beach. —Not even YOU.  —Hmmm,... I don’t know about you, but that makes me want to raise both my hands and shout,“Hallelujah! -Amen!”   L.

Study Reference: Micah 7:18-19
From: “Into The Depth of The Sea.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Jason DeCaires Taylor ​​

,   “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heavens. …A time to get and a time to lose; a time to keep and a time to cast away.”  Ecclesiastes 3:1 & 6 


How is it that we accept the changing seasons of the earth, and not the changing seasons of our lives? 

We spend so much time in reverie, not accepting our own transitions that, we miss the beauty and depth of knowledge which occurs simply by going through the rites of passage that is our life. It is uncanny how so many of us waste time trying to recapture the simplicity of our youth without understanding that—that was then, this is now.  

If somehow you passed up your youth due to ignorance, intolerance, disobedience, or through the negligence of your parents; there really is no turning back. Your youth was spent in another type of knowledge, you learned how to not  take things for granted. Or, maybe your youth was spent within the ravages of war, confinement, molestation, or turmoil; then your youth taught you fear.  If on the other hand, you spent your youth as a child of innocence, frolicking and free; then, you have learned how special it is to relish the beauty of freedom. 

Each decade of our existence teaches us the uniquely special qualities of our life, forging new frontiers if we allow the wisdom of age to take control.  Reactions change, ideologies change, the world changes; even people change.  There are things you did as a youngster, teenager, or twenty-something that you would not be caught dead doing again.  And there are things you will do at thirty, forty, and fifty, that at 80 years old you’ll wonder if you had lost your mind. 

There is a tree outside my window that overhangs the sidewalk.  It has the most magnificent seasonal transitions.  Right before it finally goes dormant for the winter, the leaves turn a beautiful vibrant orange, then a rich deep burgundy.  I call it the flame tree, because, as part of its transition, both colors appear together right before the burgundy takes over and the leaves begin the process of falling off, marking the coming of winter. 

It is a perfect metaphor for the life of man.  Each transition offers its own beauty; its own reverence; its own time.  Embrace the beauty of your life; it and your age are luxuries that have been denied to many.  And, in this life, one thing is for certain; they will not come again.  L.  

Study Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:1-6
From: "Transitions."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: istock

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

Our Words are powerful!  They have the power to give life or death to any given situation, just as they have the power to promote or destroy others.  In the same way that God spoke the world into existence with His Words; our world is also transformed by the words we speak daily.  And, not only do our words shape our perception of our circumstances; our circumstances can be completely transformed by the profession of our words. Remember, the power of your words; they have the power to shape your life and the lives of others.
 
Most people do not consider the lingering effects of their words. Some of us simply spew our words, because we can. However, be mindful that Adam named every living thing in the world, and each thing is still called by that name today. That’s how powerful your words are. And, this is just a small indication of the verbal power God gave Adam from the foundation of the world. This power was never rescinded, it is your legacy.
 
Often, your words justify your beliefs. This is why it is so difficult to profess what you do not believe. It is also the reason why brainwashing has to occur repetitively. It is in the repetition that we begin to believe what we actually say.  So, it is important for us to remember that our words are vital to the quality of our survival; it is the difference between simply eking out a living with deep sadness or living daily with innate joy. Your words have the power to change your environment!
 
Obviously, when the Bible says, God sent His Word, and His Word became Flesh, we understand that The Word is Jesus. So, if God created us in His own image wouldn't our words have the power to create also? When we really begin to understand how powerful our words are, we will understand the power God placed in us from the foundation of the world. 
 
Adam used the power of his words in his household –the earth.  What about your household? What words do you use within your daily environment?  Remember, if you curse at your children, your spouse, or your environment, you are placing a significant negative presence on your life. –A presence that lingers within your own psyche and home environment far into the future. If instead, you bless your children, spouse, and environment, it places a significantly positive presence on your life far into the future. Today’s verse says, “Give ear to my words, O Lord, consider my meditation.”  Your life is shaped by your own words; the ones you choose to utter daily are the ones you will receive.  –So, why not choose them wisely?  L.
 
**Now, it’s your turn to write down your own thoughts in your journal regarding today’s verse.

​Study Reference: Psalm 5:1, Psalm 23
From: "Your Thoughts: Our Words.”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: bigstock

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

   
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     "For it is God which works in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure. Do ALL things without murmurings
and disputing; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”       Philippians 2:13-15 


I went to a prayer meeting on a Tuesday night where there were at least 3000 or more people present.  It was absolutely amazing; and, I felt an empowering gratitude to see so many people rapt in prayer and supplication to God.  It was a time to pray for the transition of people returning to school.  We prayed for the children going back to school, their families, parents, teachers, administrators, school bus drivers, maintenance workers, and any other person associated with a school. We prayed for their safety, surety of knowledge, and that it would be their most amazing year ever!  For most of us, back to school marks the end of summer; and, as we look towards fall, many of us will reassess our lives leaning towards one decision or another.  As I read Philippians 2:13-15 above, I thought about gratitude.   

Let us truly understand this biblical text; it pretty much says, “Stop Complaining!  I know the world has problems, but there’s work I need for you to do!  I need you to shine as a light unto the world!”  The truth is, this is not the best text to read when you are reassessing your life.  The very act of reassessment is based in complaints. These complaints propel us to change those things that are not working in our lives for new, hopefully more fruitful horizons.  However, since we are rapt for change anyway, let us declare today that no matter what happens, we will try getting through the entire day without complaining about any given thing.  You will need to confide in at least one other person so they can hold you to it.   

Let’s start with the alarm clock (at least you have the gift of opening your eyes!), your clothing (oh, so you have clothing?), your commute (you have a car that runs?), mass transit (oh, so you have money for the train or bus?), and sometimes the hardest one—co-workers! (At least you have co-workers to work with! You could be doing all the work yourself!)  In a time when so many people around the world are starving, homeless, unemployed, or in the middle of wars, cultural genocide, and natural disasters, let us practice gratitude.  The kind of gratitude we often forget due to our preoccupation with asking God for more.  If you really need more, ask, but be careful; “To whom much is given, much is required!” (Luke 12:48) 

Take some time today to write down all that you are grateful for; you will be surprised how far a little gratitude will go. You never know, maybe your gratitude will be so infectious it will last all week, maybe even a whole month! Maybe, it will affect others in your surroundings so much, it allows your former “grumbling” spirit to shine so brightly with gratitude, YOU will be as a beacon of “light unto the world.”   L. 

Study Reference: Philippians 2:13-15
From:"In Quest of Gratitude."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: istock

   "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


Ordinarily, when we want to find out how to use something that was created by a manufacturer, we refer to the manual; the more complex the product, the thicker the operating manual. The manual holds all the important operating factors, such as: improper use, product warnings, and any other critical details we need to know in order to operate the product perfectly. It is the designer’s way of making sure that we operate the product at its optimum. We openly accept the manual as the leading authority in making certain the product is used the way it was designed.

And yet, although it would make the most sense to read the manual first, most people believe they can operate the product without thoroughly reading the manual. So, we learn by trial and error, never quite experiencing what it means to use our machine at its ideal.  

It is the same concerning our manual –the Bible. Our Creator gave us an operating manual that leads us into all Truth concerning our lives; a manual that teaches us how to function, what to do when we malfunction, and how to reset our operating standard. It even includes the necessary steps needed for us to personally reconnect to our Main Power Source.  So, if we really want to know the truth about ourselves directly from our Creator, shouldn’t we read The Manual  first?  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: Reading The Manual.”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​   " …Be strong in the Lord and His mighty power..."        Ephesians 6:10


​
Most people understand that fasting is a principle practiced by many religions, yet many of us do not understand the true spiritual aspect of a fast.  For the most part, we understand the denial effect it has on our mind; the cleansing effect it has on our body; and, some of the discipline it offers practitioners.  However, most people really do not understand how it trains them spiritually. 

One of the most poignant scenes outlined in our Bible is found in Matthew chapter 4, where Jesus, after fasting in the wilderness for forty days, is tempted by the devil.  It is interesting to note that, the devil chose to launch his attack when Jesus appeared to be at His weakest, physically, mentally, and spiritually. As Christians, we have to believe that Jesus knew His adversary was coming, just as He knew about all the other events that would unfold during His time in physical form. –So, why inflict a forty-day fast at this particular time?  –Why be physically weak when you know your adversary is planning to attack?  –Why choose to be separated from those who truly love you, when you seemingly need them the most? –Think about this for a moment.  

Jesus understood that fasting gives us spiritual strength and power over temptation.  It solidifies our spiritual power over our mind and body, allowing us to access strength supernaturally.  It trains the body and mind to understand that we are not under the control of our urges, whims, habits, or needs. It is acknowledgment that we are spiritual beings whose soul relies on God for replenishment, not our environment.  

I know what you are thinking. “I can’t go without eating for even one day; much less 40 days. I need food!” I truly understand; after three days, I too am looking for food in all the wrong places.  –But, try to understand this. It is not the food that you should be mindful of, it’s the discipline.  The discipline of fasting controls temptation.  It enables you, empowered with spiritual strength, the ability to withstand even the most basic need over temptation.  A need so powerful, it goes back to before your small body left the womb. A need so potent, when you were born, you cried for it non-stop, and didn't even know its name. –Food.

The power of fasting is to teach your body how to listen to you, and not the other way around.  When the body tells you that you are hungry, starving, and ready to pass out; you tell the body that it has enough plump to fast another day.  When the body tells you that you need a steak, burger, or meat by-product, if not you will die; you tell the body, one more steak, burger, or meat by-product, and you will die.  Your body’s primal need relinquishes its control to you, not the other way around.  It learns to accept denial, cleansing, and discipline from you in obedience. –And in return, you relinquish your body, mind, and spirit to God.  L.    

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:10, Matthew 4
From: "Strength or Weakness?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Robert Ambrose 

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

 
​


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

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

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

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

  "..And Jesus departed from there, and came near unto the Sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat down there. And great multitudes came unto Him, having with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet; and He healed them.”          Matthew 15:29-30


As I read the passage for today’s daily devotion, I realized that when Jesus was near the Sea of Galilee speaking to the multitude of 4000 men, not counting the women and children, those listening to Him had been with Him for three days without food.  As we can imagine, the people must have been so rapt by the teachings and healing miracles taking place, that their spiritual fulfillment and physical nourishment came from what they heard and saw  in the presence of Jesus, and not from what is considered physical food.  Nevertheless, Jesus turned to His Disciples in Matthew 15:32  and said: 

"I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way."

Jesus' statement, “I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.”  encourages Believers  to remember that, when we pray and fast, seriously awaiting an answer from God about the life issues we are faced with; and, we are prepared to see the miracle of His Word take form —we will receive an answer! --We will not be sent away unfed or unfulfilled.  The act of fasting for three days, maintaining God's Word through the body's spiritual gates of what we see and hear, will only strengthen our resolve and maintain our spiritual focus. 

So, if you are having some degree of difficulty reaching a level of clarity about an issue affecting your life, maybe it's time for you to try prayer, reading, and fasting.  It removes the cobwebs cluttering your mind, the unnecessary debris clogging up your body, and releases your spirit to access God more fully.  —Not to mention, receiving an answer that just might change the entire direction of your life.  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 15:29-39
From: "Fed And Fulfilled." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: bing

​ " And he said, Hearken ye, all... Thus saith the LORD unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God's. Ye shall not need to fight in this battle; set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the LORD with you,... fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them; for the LORD will be with you.”    2 Chronicles 20:15, 17


Sometimes, being a Christian is seen as a weakness —a lack of strength to fight back when someone is desperately trying to destroy you.  Somehow you think to yourself, "Why are they trying to destroy me? They can't know that I am a Christian, a beloved child of the Most High God!"   —Ah, but they can!  If you are particular about what you do, what you say, how you act, and whom you select as friends, they know. If your spirit emits love and compassion to others when it is least expected; then, they are watching you when you least expect it!  And, if by profession of faith, you have chosen to follow the principles of Jesus when no one is looking, then they  will continue to watch you when you are not looking.  

"It is not my battle, but the Lord's;"  should be your personal mantra when you feel under siege by others in your surroundings.  Then, you should nonchalantly move on, offering up your battle to the Lord. Do not buckle, do not waver!  Bravely wave your banner high!

So, when you feel totally persecuted, go about your merry business and conduct yourself with the valor and integrity that belongs to a child of the Most High God. Remember, it is their job to watch you, to catch your mistakes and missteps —to take you off your game!  It is your responsibility to allow God to prove He is good all the time! Do what you are supposed to do.  STAND firm in your integrity and honor God in all you do.  Let them do what they do.
—Eventually, they will find out that, "Their arms are too short to box with God!" —Hallelujah!  L.

Study Reference: 2 Chronicles 20:15-25 
From: "Arms Too Short to Box With God."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
*Original Title, James Weldon Johnson
photo: Arches National Park, Utah, pinterest

       

















​   "And Cain talked with Abel his brother; and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. And the LORD said unto Cain, Where is Abel thy brother? And he said, I know not; am I my brother's keeper? And He said, What hast thou done? The voice of thy brother's blood cries unto Me from the ground. And now art thou cursed from the earth, which hath opened her mouth to receive thy brother's blood from thy hand; When thou till the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a vagabond shall thou be in the earth. And Cain said unto the LORD, my punishment is greater than I can bear.”
Genesis 4:8-13


In two separate incidents, on two different continents, two young men woke up with the decision to kill as many innocent people as they could. What can make someone so angry that on a given day, he wakes up contemplating how to kill as many people as possible prior to killing himself?

Each day we make the decision to diffuse our anger so it does not destroy us. Our brain has the capability to engineer ways of coping with anger to help us with our own survival. For some, exercise allows them to physically work it out. For others, yelling is key in rehashing the incident for a resolution. And still for others, spending time alone enables them to reach a cooling off period to aid in their own recovery.  The last resort is violence. All violence is a decision, and any one of the three coping mechanisms above can lead to violence.

The exercise can propel you into a frenzy to fight. The yelling can escalate into violence. And, the alone time can move you into contemplating premeditated murder. By the time someone feels the desperation of violence or murder, there really is no turning back. The same brain that showed us ways to diffuse our anger, can now create a sense of paranoia; a skewed sense of fear coupled with anger that can lead to the murder of innocent people. We read this in Genesis 4:1-8 where Cain enacted the first murder by killing his brother Abel. Cain’s envy that Abel’s sacrifice was more pleasing to God, coupled with his anger at God for not accepting his sacrifice, propels him to murder Abel. 

Think about it, Cain was able to speak directly with God, yet he still committed the second sin. Remember, our walk with God is contemplative; we must ask for Divine guidance every day to help us with some level of introspection to keep us from committing grave acts that can place a wedge between us and the Spirit of God. Anger is inherent; it is going to happen if you feel wronged. -However, all violence is a decision. L.

Study Reference: Genesis 4:8-13, Romans 12:19-21 
Excerpt from: "The Second Sin." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

         "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”   John 10:27


There are thought patterns governing our lives on a continuous basis. Although some inner thoughts are placed there by society, friends, foes, and family; the majority of them are primarily governed and manufactured by us. These thoughts can be more powerful than our spoken words, and can cause more damage to us than our most lethal enemy. The kinds of thoughts we have can literally mean the difference between success and failure; happiness and depression; righteousness and wickedness; even life or death. 

Working on a project in the psychiatric unit for an out of town hospital, I saw patients that routinely heard voices urging them to commit suicide.  Voices that were so outspoken and unrelenting, some patients would routinely sit for hours at a time speaking out loud—responding to an unseen person.  Most of us would consider them nuts. However, the thing to remember is, we all have those voices; those nagging little inner thoughts that can bombard our lives telling us how bad we are, or how incompetent we are at something. It is the classic image of the little angel and the devil’s imp sitting on your shoulder urging you to opt between good and evil. For some people, the imp has taken possession over their lives. They have allowed those negative thoughts to gain full access so often, there is no room for the thoughts of goodness released by God.  Still, there are some people reading this today that somehow think they cannot relate to the people who hear voices urging them to harm themselves or others.  Yet the truth is, we hear the same thoughts all the time: 

“You are no good!” “You’re too fat” “You’re too skinny!” “You’re so unattractive no one will love you!” “Ugly!” “Stupid!” “You never get anything right!” “You can’t do that!” “You’re an idiot!” “Who told you—you could do that!” “You’ll never amount to anything!” “You are better off dead!” “No one loves you! —No one ever will!”

They are all lies, lies, and more lies. There are tons of these negative, self-deprecating, non-affirming mantras we say to ourselves every day --words that come directly from the pits of hell that should have no life in the mind of a Christian.  Jesus gave us the WORD to live by when we find ourselves lost and struggling to maintain a positive attitude and outlook. These words have truth and power to enforce us with the knowledge that He alone speaks to us. He alone has conquered all other voices; and, if we allow His voice to take precedence in our lives, it will negate any negative power over us. He will never leave us or forsake us, and most of all, He loves us more than we could possibly ever imagine. 

We are called by His name, and hear His voice.  It is not that we cannot fall prey to the voice of the imps around us; it is that we should never allow any other voice to take precedence in our lives, even if that voice, with all its negative overtones, clearly sounds like our own.  L.

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Study Reference: John 10:11-14, 10:27
Excerpt from: "Thinking Out Loud." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: stocksnap

​"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you; that you may be the children of your Father which is in Heaven: for He makes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.  For if you love them which love you, what reward have you? Do not even the publicans do the same? And, if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? Do not even the publicans do so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in Heaven is perfect.”   Matthew 5:44-48

 

Sometimes loving others is really difficult. You can share your love, your friendship, your time, your honesty, etc; and, it is repaid without regard to your love or life.  Whether you love the person romantically, platonically, or in kinship; you must honor and respect each person you call “friend, family, or love." It adds to your character and will eventually enhance your heart's capability.  If it is a family member, then be prepared to extend a quadruple dose of love.  Family can be the hardest to love; because, they know where all the tender spots are in your armor. 

Sometimes, there will be times when it really hurts to love someone; because, simply put, the other person just doesn't get it. They simply cannot understand why you have chosen to elevate them to a place of love and honor. However, we have to keep trying to extend our love until we get the hang of it. —Until it becomes so easy to love that, nothing anyone does can change it. 

And remember, although the act of love is supposed to be reciprocal, the art of loving someone is not necessarily done for them, it is done for you! —So, do not wait on reciprocity.  There will be times in your life when you will open your heart and receive nothing memorable in return. Yet, keep in mind that, it is your heart that you are empowering to exhibit the most powerful privilege in the universe —Love.  When you make the decision to love others, (and, it really is a decision), you literally link yourself to God’s Eternal Power, Jesus Christ. Your love, whether it is acknowledged by others or not, when offered in Spirit and in Truth, truly does change everything!

Today, ask God to Bless you in extending the privilege to Love as many people as possible, for as long as possible. It teaches you to extend your heart’s capacity to love; and, more importantly, it teaches you how to love others the way God Loves you.  L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 5:44-48 
From: "Loving Others." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
​photo credit: unknown

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


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

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

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

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

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

"And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient; in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth…”      2 Timothy 2:24-25


Before we build a team we have to discuss the "leader;" I mean, the "servant." The concept of Servant Leadership is an oxymoron to most people. However, those who are true leaders understand that, you become a servant to those whom you lead, whether you like it or not. 

Once you accept a leadership role, your time, efforts, and training, are no longer your own. In a leadership position, every aspect of your life becomes intertwined with the decisions you make and, how those decisions impact others. Even if you are an egomaniac, or as fair-minded as Solomon, a Mom or a CEO, your decisions will create a negative or positive impact, reaching much farther than your immediate audience. It's true, you can surround yourself with those who nod their heads in approval of your every action, limiting both your growth and theirs; or, you can surround yourself with those who tell you the truth, thereby expanding both you and your team’s sphere of understanding and development. The one you select will indicate whether you are a servant leader, or a leader with servants. 

As Christians, we accept a role of leadership and all the moral standards that are attached, when, by virtue of our own testimony, we announce to others that we "serve" Jesus Christ. 

Obviously, Jesus is our best example of what it means to truly lead others to their full potential; He was and is the Greatest Servant Leader. Just stop and think about how His interaction with the motley crew of the twelve He led, impacted His nation, the world, and your life. L.

Study Reference: 2 Timothy 2:24-26, 3:1-7
From: "Servant Leadership: A True Leader."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
​Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​​
photo: istock

   "And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the Voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.”   1 Samuel 15:22



​We try to obey God by acting as Christ-like as we dare, reading our Bible, aiding humanity, and by controlling ourselves as humanly possible. But, if we are honest, we really are no different than the Children of Israel were with Moses.

Every time I see the movie, The Ten Commandments, I think to myself, Pharaoh was a fool! If I were king, I would have listened! Then I think about the Children of Israel, and think to myself, they just did not get it; didn't they remember the plagues, the promises, or the parting of the Red Sea?  How could they forget the manna and hordes of quail falling from the sky? It was as if the memories of their victories were erased. Somehow, they forgot all those times when God miraculously brought them through their trials and tribulations.

Then I think about all the many predicaments God has brought me through. My own personal parting of the Red Sea, where He made “a way, out of no way;” and, where obeying would have played a major factor, had I done so. For most of us, obedience has a cost. Sometimes it cost love, sometimes instant gratification, sometimes friends.

When we see depictions of Satan, the master of Sin, he is grotesque with horns; however, we know this image is not biblical. The truth is, Sin on the facade is alluring, sexy, enticing, and many times can appear beautiful, at least at the onset.  However, we know that no matter how good it can be in the beginning, the consequences will have a lingering effect on our lives. Whatever the cost, obedience to God will eventually bring you ultimate joy! -Yes, it sounds like a cliché; but, it is true nonetheless.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Samuel 15:22, Ezekiel 28:13-15
From: "The "O" Word." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock

"And Jesus arose and followed him, and so did His disciples.  And behold, a woman which was diseased with an issue of blood twelve years came behind Him, and touched the hem of His garment. For she said within herself, “If I may but touch His garment, I shall be made whole.” But Jesus turned Himself about, and when He saw her He said, “Daughter be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.”  Matthew 9:19-22
 

There comes a time in everyone’s life when change is the optimum word; it is the only word worthy of reference in a life filled with regrets.  We know it the moment it occurs.  It is a pivotal moment in time where, the only thing you know for sure is that, everything in your life needs to change in order for you to feel as if your life is expressing God’s desire for wholeness. 

For some people, it will be the move from fame to obscurity.  For others, it will be from obscurity to fame. There will be those among you who will scream—to the country!  And, there will be those who will balk at the idea of seeing yet another tree in their midst.  It doesn’t matter what it is; at some point we will need change to offset that numb feeling so many of us experience at various points in our lives. To be truthful, many times it begins at home, on the job, or in a relationship. There seems to be a spiritual catalyst that propels us forward to the point where our X and Y axis meet; it determines whether we continue going on a specific path to the future, or make a U-turn at the next crossroad ahead.  Either way, change is imminent. 

To be certain, the catalyst that determines your change will be different than the factor that determines change for the next person.  It can be radical change; the type that places you in direct opposition to the life you are currently experiencing. Or, it can be the kind of change that simplifies your life so that you can experience the beauty in and around you.  It’s as if we espy an epic glimpse into our own future, where after viewing it, we simply say “No! This is not the life I want!”

We can imagine that after living with an endless menstrual cycle for twelve years, the woman with the issue of blood in Matthew 9:19-22, was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired.  For the women reading this, we have a unique insight into this issue; five days is already much too long, so imagine 12 years of non-stop bleeding.  As for the men, imagine how emotionally edgy women become during their five day cycle; now, imagine 12 years. This woman was ready for a change!   -And, we can imagine that the people who loved her, needed a change too!  But, stepping out on faith is no easy task; it takes perseverance and stamina.   And to be certain, in her story, the Bible indicates exactly what kind of perseverance and stamina we need. 
​
At a time when women were considered non-citizens, she would have had to stay behind the men and boys pressing forward to see Jesus first.  And, in her effort to meet Jesus, we can imagine her in the crowd, waiting to see even a glimpse of Jesus while grappling with others within the multitude also needing to be healed. Like so many dreams, she is pushed aside, moved to the back, and shoved out of the way. -Yet change is nearby; close enough to see, but not close enough to touch. 

There is some historical reference modern-day readers must acknowledge.  Priests were not supposed to go near the sick, dying, or dead; it defiled their anointing. The elite rarely interacted with the poor, sickly, or diseased, unless it was a member of their family; and The Poor, -well ...they  had their own issues.  As part of the law, the chronically ill were to isolate themselves from the healthy. And, keeping sickly and diseased people isolated at a time when they needed others the most was easy; no one wanted them around.  So, we can imagine, it is with some trepidation that this woman ventures into the crowd to begin with; not wanting to touch anyone in the crowd lest she be ridiculed, but needing a radical change. 

In Luke 8:42, the Bible says, she spent all her money on others who could not heal her. With free help a touch away, all she had to do was release her fears and simply reach out to God to change her life. You know the rest of the story; her faith in Jesus to enact change in her life, radically changes her life, allowing her 12 year old dream of being healed to finally come true.  -What’s your story?  Will you allow your life to stay buried because of fear?  Will you allow fear to inhibit the plan God has for your life?  Or, will you embrace Jesus, the X-factor; and step out into wholeness with God as your guide?   L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 9:19-22, Luke 9:42-48
From: "There Comes A Time."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Hobopeeba

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 


       















   "...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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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