In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
  • Home
  • Media
  • About
  • Contact
  • Blog- Gratitude
Connect, Tweet, Link!

Fear Not!

10/31/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
 "​For I, the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”          Isaiah 41:13

 
Fear is the greatest killer of dreams. For several years I planned to volunteer as an adult literacy instructor, with the hopes of encouraging two men I met to learn how to read. I can only imagine what it would be like to be illiterate, not in the negative connotation, but in the true definition of the word. I am fascinated at the high level of aptitude and social achievement those who cannot read, something many of us literally take for granted, are able to achieve. 

As Christians, we take literacy for granted, after all, aren't we supposed to read our Bible?  As a literacy volunteer, prior to receiving your own class you must sit and view a class in session, listening to the intimate interactions between the tutor and his / her students. Each class is made up of 6-7 students, ranging in age from about 20-70+, with one or two people representing each age group.  In the group I visited, two of the older students were motivated to learn how to read because they simply wanted to read their Bibles and hymnals in church. 

My first inclination upon entering the class was thinking that these students carried immense fear, shame, and embarrassment; however, after interacting with them for a few hours, I realized it was just the opposite. These students were extremely courageous! They had taken the initial steps necessary to eliminate what was previously  their shame, to ultimately conquer their fear. 

Conquering our fears with faith is the ultimate achievement for all Christians; it is our secret weapon against the wiles of the enemy.  Fear can rob all, including Christians, of their hope in the future and their faith in God.  Yet, it is in our fear that God offers the greatest strength.  He promises in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that, “...His strength is made perfect in our weakness.”  It is in this promise that we are given our salvation from fear.

So, no matter what ails you, threatens you, or scares you, believe this promise; faith in God is your ultimate weapon against whatever is thrown your way.  His Strength is perfected in your weakness; the weaker you are, the stronger He is!  L. 

Study Reference: Isaiah 41:10-13, 2 Corinthians 12:9
From: "Fear Not!"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Raul Boesel

0 Comments

Hallows Eve

10/30/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
"For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of Power, and of Love and of a Sound Mind."           2 Timothy 1:7


Today, so much of what is deemed film and television entertainment is solely based on fear and violence. We have taken cinematic fear and violence for granted for so long that, they have become an integral part of our daily experience while increasingly becoming more grotesque. These images slowly seep their poison into our minds, skewing our reality.

The concept of Halloween or Hallows Eve, is based on the promotion of fear.  Fear of all things dead, dying, treacherous and evil.  As Christians, we understand that fear is the absence or denial of God’s Love within the lives of humanity; lives filled without compassion, kindness, or love towards others. Quite frankly, an environment or life without God is completely fear-filled. It is understood that fear is also the absence of humanity’s love; the trepidation we experience when we have no love for a person, action, or activity we are about to undertake or experience. It is the precise feeling we often get when we act irrational or without thinking. It can govern our actions, unleash immorality, and create consequences that far outweigh our moral resolve. 

What if every time you felt fearful, you called on the Holy Spirit for guidance to walk through your fear? What if you could somehow recognize His Love and Light in the presence of your fear?  How do you think it would make you feel?

Fear takes on many forms; from actual enemies targeting us, to negative perceptions plaguing us. When we call on the Power of God to alleviate our fears, we create a major paradigm shift in our perception. God has already given us all that we need to conquer our fears —the power to seek Him.   In today’s text, the Bible says, He has given us power, love, and a sound mind to conquer fear.  

Today is a brand new day!  Dismiss the wicked, the violent, the fearful, and the grotesque!  Instead, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance to conquer any fears that you may be harboring, which blocks your attainment of God's Plan for your best  life.  L.

Study Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7
Excerpt from: "Hallows Eve." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Shower of Roses

0 Comments

Holding Your Peace

10/29/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​
"The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.”    Exodus 14:14


As I left work enjoying the first warm spring day of the year, I noticed some words written on the sidewalk in white chalk. I walked closer to read, what turned out to be a very profound phrase,  “Don’t allow anger to destroy your peace!"  The quote, signed by a neighborhood artist named, De la Vega, resounded in my mind and immediately uplifted my spirit.  

It appears that I have become a fan of De la Vega since reading, on previous occasions, several other sidewalk renderings penned in the temporary stain of white chalk. One of my favorites was a series of white chalk animations of a lone fish, dreaming of leaving a small fish bowl. The first image featured the fish swimming in a classic round fishbowl; the second, showed the fish jumping out of the bowl and unto the sidewalk, happily walking on newly found legs. The caption read, “Become your dream!”  

The most recent sidewalk rendering, again written with the simplicity of white chalk, simply stated, “Praying confronts God.”  Although I didn't quite agree with the statement, I easily understood the thought behind the words. There are times when praying confronts God; however, the confrontation is always tempered by our understanding that, at the appointed time, we will understand the reason behind God's process. 

I am not certain what issues prompted De la Vega to begin promoting his or her art on the sidewalks of New York City. -A place where people tread so easily without paying much attention. Maybe it was just to offer pause and pleasure to weary pedestrians, in a city where speedily walking to and from one’s destination is the norm. However, pausing to read the words, I felt inclined to silently thank him or her for the gift of gently reminding us, never to allow anger the power to steal our peace. -Peace that we so often and easily relinquish to any errant passerby who crosses our path.  

Remember, the power of bestowing and maintaining personal peace belongs only to God. When you relinquish your personal peace to someone else, they become your god. -Since, ultimately, you worship them enough to offer the sacrifice of God’s peace in your life, in return for their turmoil.  

Peace in your life is the highest level of living; it is, in essence, a complete lack of conflict mentally, physically, and spiritually.  It allows your spirit’s communal connection to God to flow effortlessly.  On more than one occasion Jesus said it very clearly to the people in His midst, “Peace be unto you.”  -So, as De La Vega so aptly put it; “Don’t allow anger to destroy your peace.”  L.   

Study Reference: Exodus 14:14  
From: "Holding Your Peace" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: unknown

0 Comments

To Thine Own Self Be True

10/28/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

​
“Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.” 
Proverbs 27:2



Have you ever overheard someone complimenting you without the knowledge that you were nearby or within earshot?  Do you remember how you felt? Oscar-winning actor Denzel Washington tells a wonderful story of coming home one day, after auditioning for yet another acting job, just in time to overhear his wife and her friend talking about him. The conversation was so intense that neither of them heard when he entered the apartment. In the conversation, his wife Paulette, a former actress, tries to convince her friend of just how talented an actor her husband is; yet, the friend, not really listening, insists instead that he needs to give up his “dream” of becoming an actor "and find a "real" job."

So, after eavesdropping on the conversation and listening to his wife defend his dream, he quietly eased back through the front door and re-entered the apartment, this time, announcing himself. The women immediately changed the topic of their conversation. Paulette's faith in him restored his decision to push the dream even further. One week later he received his pivotal role in,  A Soldiers Play, at the renowned Negro Ensemble Company Theater. The play would later be made into the feature film, A Soldier Story, launching what has become an Oscar-winning career.

Promoting yourself, boasting of your talents and gifts is truly irrelevant; for the most part, most people will not believe you anyway. Fame and notoriety are so fickle that, today people love you, and tomorrow they don't. We know this was true even in the life of Jesus Christ. Less than one week—only a few days before the Sanhedrin called out to have Jesus crucified, He had been exalted, hailed at the gates of Jerusalem with shouts of “Hosanna in the Highest.” 

It is more honest to stay true to whom you are, using your talent and gifts as if you were using them for God Himself, with the knowledge that God is never fickle; He does not waiver with the whims of the day. Use your talents and gifts without the desire for self-promotion, because the truth is, if you are excellent, using your talents exceedingly well, everyone will notice!  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 21:7-11 & Proverbs 27:2 
From: "To Thine Own Self Be True."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Aidan Photograffeuse

0 Comments

Your Thoughts: My Strength In Weakness

10/27/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

"I will love Thee, O Lord, my Strength.”    
​Psalm 18:1



Today’s verse is really very simple. As a Christian, one day you will look back on the worst days of your life, and realize that the only reason you survived without falling apart, is because, while you were wallowing in deep sadness, thinking that you would never recover, the strength of God’s Love revealed itself in your weakness.  His Strength compelled you to make yourself breakfast.  It helped you to get to work, it increased your productivity, and brought you through to the other side of your sadness unscathed. 

Looking back, you now know that there is a process of self-discovery that no one can tell you about; it is the knowledge that God’s Love is real in your life.  It is not praise, and it is not worship; it is simply a place in time when you know, that you know, God has been The Supernatural Strength in your life the entire time. Yes. In good times and in bad times, He has been with You!  -You thought that you were all alone, seeing only one set of footprints marking all the places where your life has been. But now, looking back at all the times when you felt broken, just like the poem, Footprints in the Sand,  today, you know  that, God has been carrying YOU the entire time!  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 18:1
From: “Your Thoughts: My Strength In Weakness."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: J. Jimenez 

0 Comments

First Things First!

10/26/2019

0 Comments

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


Although the Bible tells us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts, it is not easy for us to forego our own intellect to fully trust in God.  After all, it was God who gave us the highest intellect of any life-form known on earth.  So, it is easy for us to use our intellect to mastermind solutions to our problems without reference, reverence, or submission to God.  It is only after we have exhausted every potential solution to our problems that we vaguely even consider God, instead of referring to Him first. 

The thing to remember is, in going to God first we gain the best solution to propel our lives a quantum leap forward, bypassing all those weary obstacles that stand against us daily. –So next time, instead of waiting until all else fails, why not start with Him  first? 

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

Study Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6
From: "First Thing First!" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: L.A.C.

0 Comments

Your Thoughts: "Accepting"

10/25/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
The Lord hath heard my supplications; The Lord will receive my prayer.”    Psalm 6:9

 
The Bible tells us that God hears our pleas, and will receive our prayers. Yet, most of us have no patience with God when it comes to our prayers.  We believe that just because He can answer immediately, He should.  Many times, it's easier for us to believe that our prayers have fallen on celestial deaf ears, than to honestly consider that our timing, regarding the issue we have prayed for, may be off.   That’s why faith is so important in the life of a Believer. It truly is the substance of things hoped for; and, the evidence of outcomes yet unseen.  For this reason, it is unnecessary to weep over something, or even someone that has been removed from your life.  Although we may have become attached to the thing or person, neither were necessary pillars for the future God planned for us.  Even if you believed that something or someone was to be an integral part of your  personal journey; often, the only reason that they were allowed to be there in the first place, was to teach you a valuable lesson about your Love, Character, Integrity, and Strength.
 
So, do not be discouraged, God’s response can emerge out of anything, through anyone, from anywhere. More importantly, it is an opportunity for Him to show that He has already opened doors just for you that no man can close; and, will close doors behind you, when necessary, that no man can open. As long as it is in the Will of God; if it is for you, it is for YOU; and nothing but an act of God can stop it from reaching you.  L.
 
**Now, it’s your turn to write down your own thoughts in your journal regarding today’s verse. Try to make it personal.

Study Reference: Psalm 6:9, Revelation 3:8
From: “Your Thoughts: Accepting...”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​

0 Comments

Praying Your Way Out

10/24/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture






​
















​“Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly, and said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and He heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and Thou heard my voice."    Jonah 2:1-2



As a child I loved the story of Jonah,  Unlike Job, and more like us, Jonah purposely decides to disobey God; and then, in continued stubbornness, he tries desperately to flee from the sight of Him.  The story begins with God asking Jonah to warn the people of Nineveh about their behavior, but Jonah believes Nineveh is wicked, and should perish. So, Jonah decides to go as far in the opposite direction as he can. Well, you know the rest of the story concerning the whale, so let's fast-forward.

Back in Nineveh, Jonah does such a great job convincing the 60,000 people of Nineveh to repent, that their king orders prayer, fasting, sacrifice, and worship to God. This includes every man, woman, child, and beasts of burden. God, in His infinite compassion, decides to have mercy and not destroy Nineveh. However, Jonah is thoroughly disgusted! —​This is the very reason he ran from God in the first place; he knew God would have mercy and save Nineveh!  Yet surprisingly, God allows Jonah to be angry; and, at the end of the story, He explains why He saved the city of Nineveh by asking Jonah, "Shall I destroy 60,000 people who cannot discern between their left and right hand?" (Jonah 3:11)

So, let's recap. Jonah, a die-hard Believer, hoping that an evil city and its people are destroyed, decides to disobey God by fleeing from His sight, just so he doesn't have to warn the populace to repent.  Sailors throw him into the ocean to die; but, God rescues him, keeping him in the gastric bypass of a whale for 3 days, until he can't take it anymore and prays his way out.  He finally does what God commanded him to do, and what happens to the evil people? Nothing!  —No death, no destruction, not even a little mayhem. The people are saved!  Sounds familiar? —It should.

If you are a Christian Pastor / Leader / Believer, and you purposely disobey God, you are going to be forgiven upon repentance; but, like Jonah, you are also going to pay for your disobedience. Don't bother to point to the ones who are constantly opposing God; the Bible says, they “…cannot discern between their left and right hand.”   So for now, they will have Divine Grace... But you—you will be in the belly of the whale praying your way out!  L.

Reference Study: Jonah 2:1-10, 3:11
From: "Praying Your Way Out." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: picture adventures 
​​

0 Comments

Damaged!

10/23/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

​"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”  
​
Ephesians 6:12  

 
In an effort to love one another, we sometimes damage each other instead. So eventually, at some point, someone will  hurt you. Sometimes, it is unplanned but purposeful; and, sometimes it is completely accidental. Then there are times, when the pain is easily dismissed; and, there are other times when it is not, making forgiveness difficult. Whether or not we recover is the issue.  

Sometimes we can almost see directly into the heart of the other person and because of their  humility, forgiveness comes easily.  And then, there are times when our love for the other person supersedes the pain we feel, and again, forgiveness comes easily. 

Yet, more prevalent are those times when fierce defiance compels us to plant our feet in the ground, requiring that we stand firmly in the cement of unforgiveness. I don't know about you, but for me, forgiveness is one of the most difficult aspects of being a Christian. Sometimes I believe I can forgive someone for the pain they have caused, yet, I find I cannot bring myself to even utter the simple phrase, "Good Morning."  
My good friend Elliott Lamour once said to me: 

“You have to really understand Ephesians 6:12.  When you understand this, you will understand that sometimes you will say something, and the other person will actually hear something completely different, causing complete confusion, bitterness, resentment, and war. The more you understand this, the easier it will be to forgive someone. Our struggle is not against people, it is against principalities.”  

These words are true indeed. So, with this in mind, let’s make a conscious effort to work on forgiving each other, especially those people we believe have purposefully damaged us. But, I can tell you from experience; it is much easier said, than done.  -But, do it anyway.  L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:10-13
From: "Damaged."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: istock  ​

0 Comments

Accepting Power!

10/22/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​




















​"...Then I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and ye shall be clean; from all your filthiness, and from all your idols, will I cleanse you. A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you; and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you a heart of flesh. And I will put My Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in My statues, and ye shall keep My judgments, and do them.”     
Ezekiel 36:25-26
 

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

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

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

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

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

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

0 Comments

A Paradigm Shift

10/21/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​"Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou know not.”    Jeremiah 33:3

 
The story of King Saul is such a terrific saga; it shows how he began his career as king of Israel, his faith, —or lack thereof, and how his reign ended. (1 Samuel 10:22-24, 31:1-6)  Although he really did not believe he was supposed to be the first king of Israel, once he actually became king, his arrogance would lead him to believe in his own strength. He was no different than the rest of us; he needed a paradigm shift to understand the leap of faith God desired for his life.

A paradigm shift is anything that allows you to move from one level of thinking to another. For some, it is the transition from college student to professional. For others, it will mean the transition from single-and-free to mated-with-children. However, most of us will experience a paradigm shift upon the passing of one or both of our parents when we finally understand the meaning of the circle-of-life. In that time and on that day, we truly become adults with an understanding that previously, we were the next generation to fulfill the gap, and now we are the generation in the gap.

Paradigm shifts are interesting events; they enable us to be in a particular circumstance while preparing ourselves to fulfill yet another role. In some cases, it becomes a type of projection into the future. In many instances becoming a Christian is akin to having a paradigm shift—your reality changes. 

If you grew up in a Christian household, the shift is actually quite different than if you found God on your own.  (Don’t bother to write, I am a fourth generation Christian)  I say the paradigm shift is different because, “In-born” Christians can be a little arrogant in their belief; like Pharisees, sticklers for the law, believing that God only works for us based on the things we do. “New-born” Christians can see God more liberally than “In-born” Christians, because they can easily recall the depths from which God has saved them. They will be the ones who continuously remind us of the gamut of God’s Grace and Love in the lives of humanity. 

It was the same when Jesus walked with the people; He caused a true paradigm shift among both the people and the Pharisees.  Each group had to change the way they looked at the extent of God’s Love.  For the Pharisees it was a new understanding that God Loved people more than “The Law.”  For the people, it was in understanding that God Loved them enough to forgive them for the sins they enacted against Him. So, whether you are an Inborn Christian or New-born Christian, you should rejoice in understanding that God will do all He can to keep you, constantly shifting His paradigm to keep you  in Grace!  L.  

Study Reference: Jeremiah 33:3   
From: "A Paradigm Shift." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Getty/ Faroe Island, Lake in a Mountain.

0 Comments

Loving Yourself As Is

10/20/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​
​"I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring My sons from far, and My daughters from the ends of the earth; even every one that is called by My name; for I have created him for My glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.”      
​Isaiah 43:6-7



In today’s culture, everything is changeable; even human beings can surgically morph into someone else with the artistry of a plastic surgeon’s scalpel. Let’s be real. We castigated Michael Jackson for altering his distinctly African features into something even more unique; however, if we had Michael Jackson’s wealth we would eagerly change the things we find reprehensible about our own unique features. 

... Wouldn't it be great if we accepted each other’s unique beauty, acknowledging it as a gift from God? Take a look at the animals, we marvel at their unique features and regard their differences within their given species as a gift of rare beauty. We are no different, except we have the knowledge to imperfect God’s perfection in humanity with our ingratitude and ignorance.

Whoever you are, today take the time to look in a mirror and acknowledge that you are uniquely beautiful! You were not created to look like everyone else! The Bible says, "God knew you before you were formed, and took the time to number every hair on your head."  Believe in your  uniqueness, and that there is someone just for you who will love you exactly the way you were originally created by God. L.

Study Reference: Matthew 10:30-31, Isaiah 43:6-7 
Excerpt from: " Loving Yourself As Is." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock

0 Comments

Friendship In The Rain

10/19/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​
​“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me…” 
John 10:27

 
Every once in a while, I tell the story of how I met one of my closest and dearest friends; a man that would influence my life on many levels, including inviting me back to church. All because, I listened to that "still small Voice" and stepped out of character. I call it, The Umbrella Story.  

The weatherman had warned of rain for the last two days and so far, I had lugged my new super-sized umbrella for no reason. However, I decided I would take it with me on the third day anyway; because, chances were, if I didn't, it would rain "cats and dogs."  Late that evening, as I left the subway, there it was, rain. –Not just light rain drops, but a major downpour. –The kind where both the earth and your shoes are completely soaked. I noticed only one other person on the street, a young man wearing a raincoat and a very suave fedora walking ahead of me.  As the rain came down harder and harder, I felt quite lucky to have my trusty umbrella, and a little sorry for the guy in front of me getting pelted by the rain. 

I watched as the brim of that fedora went from sleek and suave, to wet and limp; finally, completely flopping, under the pressure of the rain. I truly felt sorry for him; he was getting soaked, and now the rain was coming down even harder! In any other town, it would have been a kind gesture to let a stranger under your umbrella; but, this was New York City!  It was too late, and we were the only ones on the street. Then a small Voice said, “Why don’t you let him under your umbrella?”  I don’t know where that Voice came from, but I quickly dismissed it! Yet, although I was feeling quite dry and wonderful under my big umbrella, my eyes kept watching the rain pelt the guy in front of me. Again, the small Voice said, “Why don’t you let him under your umbrella? It’s big enough for two.”  –Not listening, I began to walk faster. For some reason he slowed down, and I was able to pass him; my eyes scanning the flopped fedora that was now akin to a 1930’s flapper’s hat.   

Again the Voice came back with the same question. “Why don’t you let him under your umbrella?”  Feeling guilty and a little disgusted, I said out loud, “Fine! But if I end up dead on the streets of New York City it will be your fault!”  Then, I stopped and waited; I was already at least twenty paces in front of him, but I could hear his squishy footsteps coming closer.  “Excuse me; you look like you are getting soaked, would you like to come under the umbrella?  
A little stunned by my question, he said, “Uh? –Yes!”  And starting to laugh a little, he said, “I forgot my umbrella and was hoping it didn't rain.”  “Yeah,” I said, “I almost didn't bring mine; but, since I've been lugging it for the past two days, I figured—what’s one more day!”  We both laughed. “Well, I’m glad you did!” He said laughing. “OK,” I said, “Since you are much taller than I am, why don’t you hold it?”  “Oh, okay.”  He said, taking the umbrella; “—Wow! This is a big umbrella.”   “Yeah,” I said, feeling a little guilty that I had not invited him under the umbrella before he got soaked. “
I don’t know how far you are going, but I live in the first building right pass the light."
 I said, clearly seeing my destination in view.  “Oh that’s great!" He said. "–I live in the building right next door!”  "Of course," I thought to myself, "he would live right next door!"   

One year later, I was sitting in a new class and a young man in our study group asked if he could accompany me to the subway.  Although I was a little surprised, I said, “Yes.”  On the way, he began to tell me of a young woman who gave him shelter under her umbrella late one evening.  “That was you!” he said.  “No,” I said, shaking my head. “It could not have been me; I would never do anything so nice. It may have been my sister. She is a lot nicer and would let some unknown stranger under her umbrella.  I would have kept going. —So, you must be mistaken, I am sure it wasn't me!”  Although he insisted as we took the subway together, I adamantly denied this unmemorable event.  It was easy to dismiss the event because I sincerely believed it was clearly out of my character. “I’m getting off at the next stop.” I said, rising from my seat.  “I know,” He said, “I’m getting off also.” As we walked towards both our homes, it began to rain.  “Of course, I forgot my umbrella!”  He said, with some degree of exasperation.   “Oh, don’t worry,” I said teasing, “I have my umbrella, and —it’s big enough for two!”  As we got under that big umbrella and began walking home in the rain, it hit me.  “Oh my Goodness!  It was me!”  I said, screaming with laughter!  “I told you it was you!”  He said, laughing. 

We have been friends for over 20 years, and it is because of his urging that I found my way back to what would become my favorite church. He is an incredibly talented man, who I have never once regretted meeting; and, it is because of him that you are reading this story right now. So, just imagine for a moment what can happen when you listen to God’s Voice and do something that you consider out of character.   L. 

Study Reference: John 10:25-31
From: "Friendship In The Rain." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shangrila

0 Comments

The Repairer of The Broken

10/18/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

​​“And many among them shall stumble, and fall, and be broken, and be snared, and be taken.”   Isaiah 8:15
 
 
It is pretty easy to imagine something broken; broken things are everywhere. Some things break because they slip or fall; some things break from being mishandled or abused; while others break because they have an inherent flaw. Then there are things that break simply because of a separation. Others break from strain, disturbance, shock, or a fatal blow.  The human mind, body, and spirit is no different. We can break for all the same reasons.
 
Recently, I viewed several artifacts that were created using an ancient Japanese method called Kintsugi. It is the skill of repairing broken pieces. Ordinarily, most restorers of broken things attempt to camouflage any new repairs so that onlookers cannot see any evidence of the break. Yet, in Kintsugi, artisans mend broken pieces by inserting 14K gold powder to restore missing sections, often enhancing the value of the artifact. When the repair is complete, the broken item is not only more valuable than it was prior to its break, it is considered even more beautiful.
 
Looking at all the Kintsugi artifacts, reminded me of how most Believers come to God.  We come searching​ for someone with the ability to fully restore our broken pieces; we come to Him, cracked, chipped, misused, abused, injured, wounded, fractured; or, completely broken, trying to find –The Ultimate Repairer of our breach.  
 
As the Ultimate Kintsugi Master, God takes all our broken pieces; even the ones that cannot be found by anyone else, and with the solid gold bonding of His Love, Grace, Mercy, and Forgiveness; He mends our tears, covers our flaws, and repairs our broken fragments; so that, when others see us, they no longer see the cracks, chips, ruptures, or breaks; they can only see that we are much more beautiful than we were before.
 
Like a precious Kintsugi artifact, you will transform after your repair; you will take on a much more organic beauty. 
–Beauty that embraces the many imperfections found when opening your heart and living real life. –A life, where you embrace a deeper understanding that, humanity is inherently broken; perfection belongs only to God. -So, I learned a new word to describe our Creator –Kintsugi: The Repairer of the broken.  L.
 
Study Reference: Isaiah 8:15
From: “The Repairer of The Broken.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Billie Bond, sculptor

0 Comments

Minding Our Own Business

10/17/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

“Peter, seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall this man do? Jesus saith unto him, ‘If I will that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee? -Follow thou Me.”    John 21:21-22

​
On occasion we are reminded in the Bible to “mind our own business,” when it comes to what Jesus has asked others to do. Not only what He has asked, but also whom He has asked. For example, as Christians, we somehow believe we should all look the same, speak the same, act the same, even worship the same based on our own meager understanding of God’s Word, not fully understanding that there are unique roles assigned to all Christians based on upbringing, character, physical abilities, social status, dialect, and personality, just to name a few. There is a special correlation between you and those you will speak to concerning the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Your unique capabilities will be used to reach those where countless others have failed. 

In John 21:14-17, after dining with Jesus for the last time after the resurrection, Peter the Apostle is asked by Jesus three distinct times, “Lovest thou Me?” Peter replies, “Yea Lord, Knowest that I love Thee.”   Jesus states, “Feed My Sheep.”   It is a wonderful exchange of God’s directive to all Christians.  However, there is a verse I find even more compelling found in today's verse, John 21:21.  It appears as Jesus is speaking to Peter concerning what he should do for the Kingdom of God. Peter, espying John, whom the Bible refers to as, “the disciple whom Jesus loved,” instead asks Jesus, “What shall this man do?”   And Jesus replies, “If I will, that he tarry till I come, what is that to thee?”

In other words, do not worry about how another serves God, concern yourself with the responsibility that God has given to you.

There are some who will walk the straight and narrow path to find God, and there are others who will, like the thief on the cross, find God in their very last breath. Let’s not forget, even in our scant human understanding of perfection; we have all fallen short of the Glory of God, and, it is on God’s Honor, by His Grace, and in His Mercy that each person is saved. L. 

Study Reference: John 21:14-24 
Excerpt from: "Minding Our Own Business." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Jamie Rooney

0 Comments

"Is It Yes, Or No?"

10/16/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture

​“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by the earth, neither by any other oath; but let your yes be yes; and your no, no; lest ye fall into condemnation.”  
James 5:12



Several years ago I was involved in the development of a business with a young man.  As it happens, in a telephone conversation one day, I could not decide whether the answer to his question was, yes or no.  "Well, yes.”  I said. “--I mean no! --Let's just say, maybe!"  I continued, moving my answer back and forth within seconds.  He paused for a short time, and said, "Did you know that the Bible says let your yes be yes, and your no, no?"  The line was silent as he waited for an answer. "Yeah right!  --You know you just made that up!" I said. "--I've never read that in the Bible!"   "No,” He said. “It really does say that."   Oh, really?"  I said, a little sarcastically, "--Find it!"  
​
Later that day he called me back, his smile easily coming through the  phone. "—Found it, James 5:12."  As I read the text, I began laughing, "You gotta be kidding!" I said.  There was way too much glee coming from his side of the telephone. "See, I told ya!”  He said, as he laughed out loud. “Now, which one is it, yes or no?" 

The Bible speaks about integrity in many places; and to be certain, Jesus himself presented the concept in various parables so that we could fully understand what it means to value our words. As it happens, today’s passage is actually found in two places in the Bible. A friend once said to me after some level of my teasing him, "Many a truth is spoken in jest!"  -And the truth is, I notice you rarely say anything you don't really mean."  Years later, I realized that I, like so many people, place an inherent value on the words people actually say; and, my expectations regarding what they will do comes directly from their very own words, whether they value them or not. 

We all know someone who speaks flippantly and does not value his or her words, promises, or commitments. Sometimes, this behavior comes from disappointments in childhood where the adults in their midst did not honor their words; so, words lost their value.  In other cases, it stems from the person trying to do so many things at once that, they fall short of their commitments, disavowing their own words. Either way, whether they know it or not, it defines their integrity. 

If you say it, do it. If you really don’t want to do it, say "No." Honor what you believe, and maintain your integrity; because, in the end, it will be one of the few things that count.  L.

Study Reference: James 5:12, Matthew 5:36-37
Excerpt from: "Is It Yes or No?"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: I-Locs
​​​

0 Comments

Seeing What Others Cannot

10/15/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
“There is a path which no fowl knows, and which the vulture’s eye hath not seen. The lion whelps have not trodden it, nor the fierce lion passed by it. He puts forth His hand upon the rock; He overturns the mountains by the roots. He cuts out rivers among the rocks, and His eye sees every precious thing. He binds the flood from overflowing, and the thing that is hid, brings He forth to light.”     Job 28:7-11
​

Today, Michelangelo is considered a master artist of the Italian Renaissance. As a 15th century master painter and sculptor, he created some of the art world’s most famous masterpieces of religious subjects; including, The Pietà, David, and The Sistine Chapel. Although there are many other works, these are the most famous and easily recognizable. Most of his masterpieces are massive, even by modern standards. David, one of the largest, was 17-ft tall at its completion. It represents a young King David armed with a slingshot over his shoulder, contemplating the fight with the Philistine giant, Goliath. The Pietà is a solemn depiction of the “lifeless” body of Jesus, draped across His Mother’s lap; His face frozen in agony and pain, while Mary mourns the death, not of The Christ, but of her son.  And later, The Sistine Chapel, a small chapel, whose vaulted ceilings Michelangelo was originally commissioned to paint by the Papacy of Pope Julius ll. This magnificent work depicts biblical events from Genesis to Revelation. It was one of the most difficult to produce, since Michelangelo had to mount a scaffold for hours at a time for several years, reportedly on his back, to produce the work.

Although his artistic genius was never in dispute, when peers and onlookers asked him how he was able to create such masterworks like, David and The Pietà out of dead slabs of marble; his response was that, when he looked at the selected marble slab, he saw the sculpted image already encased within the marble. He believed that God had already placed the image inside the marble, and that he simply removed the excess stone and debris camouflaging the form, enabling the world to see the image! 

Sometimes, God will allow YOU to see where others cannot; it is up to you whether you choose to be obedient and accept what He shows you, or not. Sometimes, the image He shows you may not be immediately attainable.  In many instances, like Michelangelo’s masterpieces, it may take years to materialize, revealing only bits and pieces of the complete vision. —Often, leaving you to lose faith, wondering what it was that you really envisioned.  Yet, like the biblical story of God’s unseen army surrounding Elisha, not everyone can see what God wants only you to see.
So, keep your eyes open, stay on track, and most of all --don't  lose Faith.  L.

Study Reference: Job 28:7-11, 2 Kings 6:15-18 
From: "Seeing What Others Cannot."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

0 Comments

The Best Critic

10/14/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
"The woman answered and said, I have no husband. Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband, for thou hast had five husbands; and he whom thou now hast is not thy husband, in that said thou truly... ...The woman then left her water pot, and went her way into the city, and said to the men, Come, see a Man, which told me all things that ever I did; is not this The Christ?”  
John 4:17-18, 28-29



​

We need at least one person in our life that will tell us the truth, no matter what the circumstance. It is always worth listening to, although sometimes, it can be difficult to hear. The truth allows us to make the necessary adjustments in our lives to get us back on track. And, while it is easier to be with someone who continuously tells you what you prefer to hear, it will not allow you to grow to the optimum level you were destined to reach.

When Jesus met the Samaritan woman-at-the-well, He told her intimate details about her life; details that were known only to her and the men she had been intimately involved with. He lovingly told her that her insatiable desire to be with several different men came from a much deeper yearning for God’s Love.  A Love so intensely complete, it lasts forever. Outwardly, she happily went through her daily routine, secretly knowing there was an unfulfilled void in her life. When Jesus revealed the scattered details of her life, she immediately recognized her hidden desire and lack of fulfillment. Yet, it is interesting that she did not deny the truth about her life, she accepted the criticism of her past, and with it, the opportunity to change her future. In accepting what Jesus offered, she became so completely fulfilled by the Love of God, she left her pitcher and immediately went into the city to tell any and everyone about her encounter.

Find the truth in the criticism of others; sometimes, it may be just the wake-up call you need to foster a reaction, course alteration, or serious contemplation. Dismiss the criticism said in anger; because, although there may be truth in it, it will be difficult for you to see through all the inherent drama of the circumstance. If there is no one in your midst whom you can trust to honestly tell you the truth concerning a given situation, then tell your story to a perfect stranger. At least then, you will know that the person has no vested interest, is completely indifferent, and could probably care less about how you feel after they tell you the truth.  Not to mention, there is a really good chance that God will allow them to tell you exactly what you need to hear; since, you may have already decided, not to listen to Him.

The Samaritan woman-at-the-well made a conscious decision to accept the truth in the criticism she received. The Love of God freed her from concealing the weaknesses of her past, and empowered her to expose the power of her future! --Become what the Love of God has empowered you to be!  L.

Study Reference: John 4:17-18, 28-29 
From: "The Best Critic." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. .
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Sharpiron

0 Comments

Your Thoughts: Spiritual Roadblocks

10/13/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
























"Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there remember that thy brother hath ought against thee; leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.”    
Matthew 5:23-24

 
Jesus gave two very specific commandments to His disciples when He was asked which of the commandments were the greatest.  His response was, “Love God with all your heart and all your soul. And, love your neighbor as yourself.”  Yet, in addition to this, He made a very specific point concerning forgiveness while He taught the masses how to pray.

It is a concept so radical, that most of us overlook it.  It simply states that, if we have not forgiven those whom we believe have hurt us in some way, then, before we honor God with our sacrificial gifts –whether monetary, spiritual, or otherwise; we must first make amends with those people whom we have not forgiven.  In other words, the cleansing of your spirit to remove unforgiveness is so important to God, that although your sacrifice may be extremely important to YOU, God says to keep your gift, sacrifice, fast, prayer, or whatever else you believe you should submit to please Him, at the foot of the altar. Jesus asks us to literally leave our gift in stasis, until we have taken care of our forgiveness problem.
 
Unforgiveness places a huge barrier between you, God, and the abundance He has already ordained for you from the beginning of time. The Bible says that God’s blessing is above all that we could ever ask or think. So, I don’t know about you; but, I want every last bit of abundance God has scheduled for my life.  I do not want to leave one gift unopened! I do not want the foolishness of a stubborn heart to get in the way of receiving any of the wonderful things He has already planned for my life. Especially since, that gift may just be the gift that I have been waiting on my entire life.  It may be just the thing that will release my spirit to completely fulfill my destiny in this world.

What about you? Will you allow the stubbornness of unforgiveness to permanently place a wedge between you and all the wonderful gifts God is eagerly waiting to dispense to you?   If not, then take care of that issue.  L.
 
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal.

Study Reference:  Matthew 5:23-24
From: “Your Thoughts: Spiritual Roadblocks...” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Maroesjka Lavigne
​​

0 Comments

Loving Others

10/12/2019

0 Comments

 
Picture
​“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 ye 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 ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? 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: silhouettes

0 Comments
<<Previous

    In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living

    -Daily Posts

    Welcome to the ITMH blog. Here you can interact with me each day regarding  the devotionals found in the book if you are not on Facebook.  Write something about yourself in relation to the daily. No need to be fancy, just be honest. I'll do the same.  It will be interesting to see how different people, with varying experiences react to the same daily. 

    And, in the way of The Master, please remember to be congenial.

    Archives

    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014

    Categories

    All

    RSS Feed

Powered by Create your own unique website with customizable templates.