“And God said, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself, upon the earth;” And it was so. ...And God saw that it was good.”      
​Genesis 1:11-12
 

All life is a seed, even you.  
It is astonishing how one single seed can reap so much fruit. What's even more fascinating is that, the fruit from one seed, planted by a farmer in another part of the world, winds up traveling thousands of miles across oceans, just to feed us.  Mangoes from Mexico, kiwis from Australia, bananas from Guatemala, star apples from Costa Rica, pitted dates from Morocco, or figs from Turkey.  If you stop for a moment to acknowledge that a farmer in some distant town or country tilled the land just so that you could have a piece of fruit or some other sustenance, it can be truly overwhelming.

The Bible uses the term “seed” as a metaphor for all kinds of biblical concepts. It can be an actual seed for planting; or, it can be a thought, a beginning, a lesson, an idea, a child, even currency.  Yet, the most fascinating is that, before God completed the creation of the world, He placed seeds in every living thing to recreate itself.  Even the Word of God is a seed.  It places a thought within us, and with it we gain the ability to blossom beyond our current circumstances.  Oftentimes, the thought is internalized so deeply, it transforms us beyond recognition.  God also gave each of us the seed to recreate human life. Whether it’s biological or with the manifestation of our words, we are laden with seeds. And, while we may consciously withhold ourselves from the active transmission of our biological seeds, our words can be strewn with the flick of our tongue; words carried far and wide by the winds of life, without regard to their effect. These tiny unseen seeds have the power to grant life or death, war or peace, growth or decay, lethal criticism or joyous praise. 

Whether you acknowledge it or not, you continuously plant seeds every minute of every day.  It can be a simple “thank you,” a kind gesture, or a word of encouragement sown so deeply it manifests for years to come.  Or, it could be a curse, an obscene gesture, or a snide remark sown so rudely it manifests immediately, creating destruction and chaos as it travels far into someone's unforeseen future. 

All of life is a seed, even your words. The question is, when your seeds finally take root in the many people they were planted in, what will we reap? Will it continue as sustenance, feeding others far across oceans, or will it spawn continuous and utter destruction?   L.

Study Reference: Genesis 1:11-12, Proverbs 18-20-21
From: "Seeds." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Warren M/ Underwater Baby series by Seth Casteel

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​"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; because 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 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. 

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

​“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 left 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.
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**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal.
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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: Jeremiah Gilbert

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​"If ye abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.”  
John 15:7
 


​By nature I am an optimist; I really believe just about anything is possible!
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God has brought me through too many things for me to believe anything else. I am fascinated every time I board an airplane, recalling the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, the two brothers who, through their bicycle engineering skills, developed the first airplane to actually take flight in the United States. Because of their quest, millions fly daily in planes weighing more than 100 tons. If you ever stop and really think about the concept of one hundred tons easily and swiftly zipping through the air, it becomes increasingly simple to dismiss the notion of an "impossible task."  There's more. 

What about your cell phone, Internet, flat screen television, and all those wireless devices, quietly emitting signals, so communication can be instantaneous; it was not that long ago that these things did not exist.  In medicine, we can look at the breakthroughs in laser eye surgery, where almost instantaneously, the eye heals itself, allowing the patient to miraculously see without glasses. Not to mention, the human body itself; a vessel God designed so exquisitely that even large quantities of poisons have to work really hard just to kill us. The Bible has already told us, there are no impossible tasks.  All things are possible through God. (Matthew 19:26)

All things are possible through God, was the thought I had after reading Mark 6:37.  It is where the disciples come to Jesus, asking Him to send the five-thousand people, who had been rapt by His teachings all day, into the villages to buy something to eat.  Jesus responds by telling His disciples, “Give ye them to eat.”  
It is possible that the disciples, even after being with Jesus for some time, didn't really understand that He wanted them to believe in the power of God as He did. You can’t really blame them for not understanding that they, through their belief in God, could feed the 5000 people who had followed them and stayed to hear the teachings of Jesus. 

If it were to happen today, even the most die-hard Christian optimist would still send the multitudes into town to feed themselves.  Why would we really believe we have the power to transform the lives of 5000 people? -To actually feed them?   I believe the notion of “feeding” is key. When Jesus was admonishing Peter, He asked, “Lovest thou Me?”   When Peter replied, Jesus charged him by saying “Feed My sheep.” (John 21:15-17)   In our prayers we say, “Our Father which art in heaven ...give us this day our daily bread.” (Matthew 6:9-11)

To feed someone is a metaphor for teaching, training, and/ or mentoring, so they can be nourished, full and satisfied.  Whether you are getting your Daily Bread through a Bible study class, church sermons, or, reading the Bible on your own under the guidance of the Holy Spirit; as a Christian, Jesus expects for you to be fed and to feed others.  He expects for you to know that no task is impossible if you believe in Him.  
Impossibility is not a word for God; it should not be a word for you!   L. 

Study Reference: John 15:5-7
From: "Believing In The Impossible." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock

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“Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.  And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which works all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.”      
1 Corinthians 12:4-7 


​It can be difficult for some people to truly understand the diversity of gifts concept; yet, simply put, every single person in a church is significant, not just for their talents or gifts, but also for their diversity of character. Whether it is a young child with a penny, or an Oprah-like person with billions, each person is there to teach us a lesson.  For example, the child with the penny can teach us humility; while the person with billions can teach us perseverance, generosity, or even frugality. 
The diversity of characters, personalities, and gifts, within the church, create a microcosm of society and teaches us how to evolve spiritually given the diversity within the body of Christ. 

Does this mean we are going to have some people who are a little nutty?-Yes!  A little snobbish?-Yes!  A little outlandish? -Yes!Will there be some serious bible-thumping holy-rollers? -Yes!    And, what about those who barely toe-the-line. -Oh Yes!   However, all are seeking a closer walk with God in their own way.  The Bible says, "every man must bear his own burden..."  as he or she seeks a personal walk and commitment to God. 

The issue is not with the cast of diverse characters; the issue is how you react and interact with them. And, although we are all working towards the same end-goal, your interactions with the entire cast of characters will determine your own level of growth within the body of Christ.  Remember, Jesus himself found a motley crew of diverse characters that He dubbed the Twelve Disciples. Why would the personalities in your church be any different than those He took the time to select as His beloved followers?  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 12:4-7   
From;"Gifts."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock 

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“And the LORD said unto Satan, 'Whence comest thou?' Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, 'From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.'  And the LORD said unto Satan, 'Hast thou considered My servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that fears God, and eschews evil?' Then Satan answered the LORD, and said, 'Doth Job fear God for nought?'”    Job 1:7-9 
 
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Suppose God was having a conversation about you, what would He say about your life today?  Would He be impressed or disappointed with what you have done with it so far? 

The Bible says, Job was a perfect and upright man; a man who loved God and hated evil. Yet God, showing Job off, allowed all manner of devastating trials to be used by Satan to test Job’s heart, short of taking his life.  And, while the Bible speaks of David as a man after God's own heart, David also had a rough time!  David had to acknowledge his misconduct and suffer the consequences of his actions on more than one occasion.  And although, he personally killed hundreds of men, those men were killed under God's direct orders.  He paid a hefty consequence for the one life he was indirectlyresponsible for; the life of his friend Uriah, Bathsheba’s husband. And, since David was a true warrior, a man who clearly understood how precious life was, almost all of God's sanctions against him would end with the death of people he deeply cared about. 

It is a precious thing for us as Christians to be saved by Grace. It allows us the opportunity to not have to stand before God for every action that is the sum total of our life. It is because of our Savior Jesus Christ who covers our sins that most of us are not consumed.  I don’t know about you, but, quite frankly, if I were tested at a fraction of the level of David or Job, I would certainly fail miserably.  Yet, we must still strive to live and maintain a righteous life; because, we love and stand on the side of God. It is the least we can do as a sign of respect and love for Jesus’ sacrifice.

In response to today’s question, the thought is, if God is having a conversation about YOU, pray that it is a really good one.  One that weighs heavily on the plus side rather than the minus side; because, as easily as you and I breathe, He can alter the direction of our lives with the ease of a whisper.  L.   

Study Reference: Job 1:1-12; 2 Samuel 11:1-17; 24:10-17
From: "What Would God Say?"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Joel Robison

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​“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD; and He delights in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down, for the LORD upholds him with His hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor His seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lends; and His seed is blessed.”
Psalm 37:23-26


The media tells us that we are in a recession, a continuous downward spiral depleting all of our financial resources. Nevertheless, included in this book on the first and last day of the year, is the blessing found in Deuteronomy 28:1-13. It was listed to remind every reader of God's blessings and promise to those who keep His statues and walk in His righteousness. I printed it out for my personal circle of friends and asked them to place it where they could see it on a daily basis; you should do the same. It will be a reminder when everything around you is spiraling downward to keep your eyes on the Master and not a downward economy.

As in all times, some will prosper and some will not. Remember, the Bible says, “I have been young, and now am old; yet, I have not seen the righteous forsaken, nor His seed begging bread.” L.

Study Reference: Psalm 37:23-26, Deuteronomy 28:1-13
From: "Becoming Recession Proof." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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​“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds; that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.”            
Ephesians 6:18-20
 

Have you ever wanted to give up praying for someone who you thought was lost? —Maybe for someone who would never make it into God's house, much less His Kingdom?  One day, after our usual after church luncheon, we sat at the dining table having a very lively discussion concerning our pastor's sermon on "vision." 
​As the discussion continued, there was a knock at the door.  When our host opened the door, a young woman with a beaming smile asked, "Can I speak to you for a moment?"   Thinking that she might know the young woman’s family, our host said, "Sure, come in!    After the young woman came into the house, the entire group greeted her.  When she saw the group seated at the table, she turned smiling to our host and said, "Are you Christians?"   Our host, smiling back said, "—Yes!"  The young woman beamed even wider and said, "So am I, I go to the new church up the street, but I couldn't sit in there any longer knowing that there are so many people outside the church who need to know about Jesus. So a group of us decided to walk door-to-door instead of going to our afternoon youth meeting." 

We continued speaking with this young woman as she gave her testimony regarding how she came to know Jesus Christ. Let's just say, although she was the product of a Christian home, for years, she was the intent focus of her mother's prayers and bouts of fasting.  Surprisingly,  it turns out, our host knew her mother, although she had never met our young visitor. As she continued to speak, we realized that we all knew her brother, an amazing young pastor. This young woman, the product of her mother's prayers, pleas, and God’s amazing Grace, was the one that God chose to place an overwhelming Spirit to leave the confines of the pews, to personally go out into the neighborhood, and tell others about Christ. 

Don’t give up on those you pray for; maintain an eternal view of any and all circumstances that you may be faced with. The passion God has for your life and the lives of those you pray for is no comparison to a circumstance.  
--So, go ahead, pray for them again!  L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:18-20   
From: "A Knock At The Door."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo:  bstatic

​“Then Mordecai commanded to answer Esther, Think not with thyself that thou shall escape in the king's house, more than all the Jews. For if thou altogether hold thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed; and who knows whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?          Esther 4:13-14


The story of Esther is a fascinating story!  When you have some time, read the entire book for yourself.  The story is really about conquering anxiety and releasing fear to accomplish God's desire for your life. The annual Jewish celebration of Purim is actually based on this historical / biblical event.

When we read the story of Esther, most of us look at her self-sacrifice and heroism; however, today let's take a look at Mordecai, the adult cousin, who became her guardian and mentor. It was a custom in all communities around the world to take the responsibility of raising a family member's child/ children if they became orphans, or if their parents simply could not care for them. In some cases, if a wealthy member of the family or community were childless, someone would send their own child to them to raise as their own.  It was rare that a couple went without having children, whether they were biological or not.  Today we look at people like Madonna and Angelina Jolie, and are perplexed at their decision to adopt children from the ravages of poverty.  Esther’s cousin Mordecai, whom she referred to as her uncle must have been a man with a good heart.  He not only agreed to raise Esther as his own child, he gave her the principles that would nurture a love for God, ultimately leading her to the kind of heroism that would save an entire nation. He taught her self-reliance, respect, bravery, and altruism. He thought she was beautiful, and because he thought so, and told her so, she believed him.  Through his influence and guidance she would follow the path God designed for her life.

Each one of us has the ability to shape the lives of the children directly in our lives or somewhere around us. Many of us can search our past to find more than one adult, other than our parents, who shaped and nurtured our minds, talents, and gifts.  They taught us to cast out fear, so that we could become the person we are today.  We have to look around us and nurture the children who will one day become our guardians.  As is the circle of life, one day they will return the favor by fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives, and you never know—they too might save a nation!  L.  

Study Reference: Esther 4:11-16 
From:"Saving A Nation."  In The Master's Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo; overflowed

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​"Concerning the works of men, by the Word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer. Hold up my goings in Thy Paths, that my footsteps slip not.”    Psalm 17:4-5  


Sometimes, in order to move on, we will have to leave something behind.  Some of those things will be left behind of our own freewill; while others will be left behind reluctantly.  Like Joseph fleeing Potiphar’s wife, sometimes we simply have to chart a course that allows us to flee from the oncoming path of the destroyer; rather than, trying to exhaust the limits of our willpower.  The longer we stay, the more difficult it is to leave things behind.  In Joseph’s case, he left his garments behind throughout each transition of his life, simply to remain on God’s Path.

First, he had to relinquish his childhood coat-of-many-colors to his brothers. This forced  him to reconsider his interpretation of his childhood dream, and to begin the first step of the journey that God planned for his life. His future seemed bleak. –And yet, it moved him to Potiphar’s house; the place where he would discover his gift for  managing large agricultural fields, accounting records, financial concerns, and personnel.   

Then, he had to relinquish his managerial robe to Potiphar’s wife.  –This sent him to the royal prison, teaching him yet another level of understanding about his life.  –How to have patience, perseverance, and reliance on God.

Then, he exchanged his prison uniform for a borrowed royal court robe. A robe  that was given to him so that he could stand presentable before the king.  This would teach him that sometimes, when God gives us the opportunity to shine, it may not come at the most opportune moment; and, we may not even be prepared for it. –But, try anyway; because, God will surprise you!  

You know the rest of the story. In the end, Joseph literally exchanged his borrowed court garments for the fine linen robe of the King.  In each leg of Joseph’s journey, he learned the necessary skills that he would need to ultimately undertake the vast scope of God’s plan.

Like the relinquishment of Joseph’s garments, when we remain on God’s Path, no matter how far off the desired terrain it may be, we will always benefit in regard to those things left behind for the sake of God’s Word. So, do not be afraid if the path seems bleak; or, if you have left behind your favorite job; or even, if you feel trapped, patiently awaiting an opportunity.  Know that if you have given up something for God, it will be restored far beyond your belief.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 17:4-5
From: "Your Thoughts: "Go Ahead, Let It Go!."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wordpress

​“...Then The Spirit said unto Philip, “Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.” And Philip ran there to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, “Understandest thou what thou read?”  And he said, “How can I, except some man should guide me?” And he desired Phillip that he would come up and sit with him.”      Acts 8:29-30


Seeking God is highly personal, and you never know when or where non-Christians will seek to learn more about God. One day on my way to church, my cabdriver, an old-fashioned dread-locked Rastafarian, led us into a discussion about Jesus.  Our discussion was much too long to go into specifics; however, as it ensued, I learned why Rastafarians consider Haile Selassie akin to God.  They believe that Selassie, the confirmed 223rd direct descendant of King Solomon, is Jesus. And since the leaders of seventy-two world nations witnessed his coronation in Ethiopia as "king of kings," their conclusion was that, he must be our Savior reborn; although, Selassie himself never made such a claim. Our discussion was wonderfully energetic, and we planned to have a deeper discussion of the life of Jesus and Christianity upon his visit to my church at a later date.

In today’s passage, the Ethiopian Chamberlain of Queen Candace’s court, was unknowingly reading about the life of Jesus as found in the prophetic book of Isaiah, without fully understanding the texts; when supernaturally, the apostle Phillip appears next to his chariot to explain the prophesy concerning Jesus’ life and subsequent resurrection. The Chamberlain finds the information gained from Phillip so spiritually compelling that, the next body of water he sees, he asks Phillip to baptize him immediately. Once he confirms his belief and the baptism is completed, Phillip miraculously vanishes, appearing in another town miles away to evangelize further. The Chamberlain goes on his way rejoicing armed with the Holy Spirit!  Historically, it turns out that, Ethiopia was the first place where a reigning ruler converted to Christianity, establishing one of the oldest Christian enclaves in the world.  In addition, it has been referenced that the Chamberlain eventually became an apostle, evangelizing the gospel of Christ into South Asia, Ceylon (now Sri Lanka),  East Africa, and  Arabia Felix (now a smaller Yemen), until he was eventually martyred. God certainly does not waste His resources!  One person taught another person and look what happened!

Like the Ethiopian Chamberlain, when someone is seeking to learn more about God, you never know if it is going to be convenient for you or not. Why do I say this? –Well, the discussion with my driver lasted long enough for me to see the congregation coming out of the very church I was supposed to be going into.
“Wow, it looks like the people are leaving,” I said, a little surprised. “–I can’t believe I missed church.”  My driver turned to me and smiled, “Not to worry Sistah, we had church right here!”    “True!”  I said smiling at him. “True.”  L.  

Study Reference: Acts 8:26-39
Excerpt from: "An Inconvenient Time."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Smithsonian​​

​“Who is a God like unto Thee that pardons iniquity and passes by the transgressions 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 He will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.”      Micah 7:18-19


For many Christians, including myself, forgiveness is a big issue. It's not simply forgiving others, although that may be just as big an issue, but forgiving ourselves. We consider our deeds or misdeeds, and think to ourselves, God cannot forgive us for whatever act /sin we believe we have committed.  We make this statement so true in our own minds that forgiving ourselves seem completely outrageous. So, we wallow in the arms of self-pity, doubt, and fear, languishing in darkness, instead of what should be the Light of forgiveness and the Grace of God.

In Isaiah 55:8-9, God reminds us that His thoughts are far beyond our level of thinking.  In it He says; 
“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways…  For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts.”

God travels on the ultimate high road, offering compassion and granting forgiveness to all those who ask. If this is so, how can we ever believe that God will not forgive us for past or even future misdeeds?  We cannot think like God; our understanding of His forgiveness is often misguided and limited.  And yet, no one else can tell you to forgive yourself for something you have done, if you do not believe you deserve forgiveness. Your quest is to ask God for His forgiveness, repenting of your sins cloaked under the blood of Jesus Christ. 

Once you have done so, you must believe that His forgiveness has occurred; and, fully accept that the thoughts of your Father in Heaven are far beyond both your expectations and your understanding. -Now there are times when you will have to ask for forgiveness from those whom you have hurt, however, forgiving yourself can only start with God. L.

Study Reference: Micah 7:18-19  
From: "Forgiving Yourself."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: tapyaps

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"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

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“He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.”     Psalm 147:3
 
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Have you ever had to help someone go through the healing process of mending a broken heart?  Maybe the person with the broken heart was you, or someone you loved. 
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Although Love is by far, the most joyful thing we crave as human beings, it can also be the most painful. It is both remarkable and perplexing how something that can so easily empower us to be our best selves, could also cause us to sink to our lowest depths. —​What can possibly heal a broken heart? 

Physicians tell us, most wounds to the body can be repaired; some through natural healing, and others through surgical intervention. However, our heart is different; it is our center, the part that needs the most protection from those who may attempt to destroy us. So, it is important to remember, if we are damaged by a direct hit to the heart, it can be a fatal blow, both physically and figuratively. 

In Proverbs 4:23 the Bible says, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.”  When we choose to offer our heart to someone, that person needs to handle it gently, carefully, with truth, respect, and love. It is our most vulnerable place, the epicenter of our mind, body, and spirit. When it is damaged, it is difficult to repair both physically and mentally. Does this mean you should not freely love with your whole heart?  On the contrary, when you give or receive love, you are your most powerful self. However, guard your whole heart diligently, because therein also lies your weakness.  Know to whom you are offering one of your most precious gifts—your love. 

Nevertheless, just in case you have done all of this and somehow you still end up with a broken heart, know that God understands the depth of your pain and will remain close to you until you are healed. God promises in Psalm 34 that, He “... is near unto them that are of a broken heart, and saves those of a broken spirit.”   And, in today’s verse, we are reminded that “…He heals the broken hearted and binds their wounds.”  So...
What can possibly heal a broken heart?  —God’s Love!   L.
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Study Reference: Psalm 147:3, Psalm 34:18, Proverbs 4:23
 From: "A Broken Heart."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: science-all

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"...Love suffers long, and is kind; love envies not; love vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seek not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails; but whether there be prophesies, they shall fail; whether there be tongues, they shall cease, whether there be knowledge, it shall vanish away. For we know in part, and we prophesy in part;  But when that which is Perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away.  When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face; now I know in part; but then shall I know even as I also am known. And now abide Faith, Hope, and Love, these three; but the greatest of these is Love.”     1 Corinthians 13:4-13 


-Without Love, there is nothing …There is nothing, without Love.     

I am convinced that pure Love conquers all, heals all, prevents all, and saves all.  It knows all, discerns all, creates all, perceives all, teaches all, finds all, reveals all, identifies all, and so on.  It is the remedy for everything, and without it, there is nothing and nothingness.  It is the reason we believe God is Love.  Nothing can exist without it.  No human, animal, vegetable, flora, fauna, or fish.  It is not only God’s Love for us, or our love for Him; it is the encompassing and extension of our love to others.  As God’s Ultimate Gift, it is the greatest thing He imparted to us, and it continues to keep us in accord with Him, whether we believe or not. 

As humanity, we cannot function without it. When we find it missing at the youngest stages of life, it manifests as wicked pathologies and dysfunctions that disable future adults from the basics of a common humanity most of us take for granted.  And, if it is still not discovered into adulthood, the mind finds ways of creating “love,” often, to the destruction of itself or others. 

We search for it,—yearn for it, and eagerly find ways of capturing even the most minuscule traces of it in others.  We will give up our lives for it; and we will save the lives of others because of it. It heals our hearts and replenishes our souls.  What else could it be, but from God?  It is not physical love, but it can be.  It is not romantic love, but it can be. It is a thing so massive, both its depth and breadth is unimaginable. And yet, even the most minuscule unseen bit, once offered, can propel us to greatness.  Imagine.  ...It lives long after we have died and continues to work long after we have lived.  What else could it be, but of God. 

In this new year why not move your life in the direction of finding out more about it?  Not to garner more of God’s Gift from others to yourself, but to offer more of it to others—for yourself.

Change to Love—you’ll change your life. 
                   Change your life--You will change the world.  L. 

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 13:4-13  *(The Gideon King James Bible) 
From: "Love." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock ​​

​“And Leah conceived, and bare a son, and she called his name Reuben; for she said, Surely the LORD hath looked upon my affliction; now therefore, my husband will love me.”          Genesis 29:32


What happens when you believe you are in love with someone?  —​How does this change your behavior?
There is an old song in which the refrain says, "There's a thin line between love and hate."    And, an adage that reads, "All is fair in love and war!"    It's not a Jesus principle, but some Christians use it as their mantra.

See, here's the problem; if you are a man or woman in-love, and you feel compelled to continuously manipulate, deceive, lie, and conjure, a potential mate into loving you, your union has not come from the Holy Spirit, no matter what you may tell yourself.  And, eventually, the things that were used in the past to hold him or her, will not work to keep your potential mate in the future.

Love can be duplicitous; it can empower us to be at our strongest, and it can soften our hewn edges to render us our weakest. We really have to pray when trying to determine who our mate will be; because, we can be easily deceived and led astray if we believe there is a void in this area of our life.

G.P.S, —​God's Positioning System is the Holy Spirit. If you are a Christian and in love with someone, at some point you must ask for direction; because, your own heart will almost always lead you astray, and any type of deception will always come back to haunt you.  

So, keep this prayer in mind. "Lord God, thank you for my potential mate. Help me to select the man or woman of my dreams within the guidance of the Holy Spirit.  —​Search my heart and theirs for the perfect match. Teach us how to Love each other. Temper our hearts with patience, gratitude, compassion, generosity, integrity, kindness, and Love.  In the Name of Jesus, Our Lord and Savior. Amen."   L. 

Reference Study: Genesis 29:20-25
Excerpt from: "A Thin Line" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wordpress

​"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  ​

​“Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou know not what a day may bring forth.”    Proverbs 27:1 

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What if you found out you were going to die in a few days, not a year, or a month, but a few days?  How important would time management be to you then?  I have to admit, I am a mediocre time manager. I try to squeeze every second out of a minute by wringing milliseconds the way some of us squeeze water out of a towel.  I am forever chasing the clock, replacing what could be done with what needs to be done. 

A few years ago, I was in a conversation with a young anesthesiologist I had recently met; he was a handsome man with an athletic build who appeared exquisitely healthy.  I was surprised when he told me his age because he looked much younger than his actual age.  When I complemented him on his athletic build, he responded that only a month ago, he was "this much," gesturing the measurement of an inch with his fingers, “from death.”  As it turns out, his physician discovered one of those terminal diseases involving the brain stem whose name I cannot remember.  As we talked about it, I could see the emotion welling in his eyes.  “You know,” I said, “…you have to remember faith is more significant when it comes to healing than most people understand.  And to be honest with you, sometimes physicians know way too much.  It is quite possible that now is the time for you to increase your level of faith. —Faith changes everything!”   “True,” was all he said, and he sped off.   As I thought about our conversation later that evening, I came to the conclusion that we are all terminal; he simply had a clearer understanding of how soon his time may come to an end. 

When we follow the life of Jesus, He knew His mortal life was terminal.  He knew when, where, how, what, and why His life was to be given/ taken; so, He spent His days teaching, speaking, healing, and loving those around Him. He impacted their lives so deeply that they would later impact the lives of billions far into the future.  Truthfully, we waste a lot of time on useless issues, not really spending quality time with those we really love, significantly impacting their lives with the kind of love that empowers them to impact others.  Maybe spending time with the people we really care about, and doing the things that truly honor God to fulfill our purpose, is our true time management.  If this is so, everything else becomes filler and can easily be eliminated.   L.   

Study Reference: Proverbs 27:1 
From: "Time Management." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock

​“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 
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​“The eyes of your understanding being enlightened, that ye may know what is the hope of His calling, and what is the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints. And what is the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power …”      Ephesians 1:18-19


I listened as a group of young Christians discussed the first time they really began to understand God’s presence in their lives. Each spoke about their respective “Ah-ah” moment; some, more profound than others. One girl, a fresh-faced young woman, dressed simply in a pink sweater, t-shirt, and jeans, spoke the most candidly about her revelation. 

“My moment is not as profound as some of the others.”  She said earnestly, “It goes back to when I was a little younger.  I’m the eldest of six children, and my parents always dragged all of us to church. -With six children, you can imagine how much chaos it was just getting everyone in the car. One day after communion, as we all piled into the car; there was more chaos than usual. All the kids were yelling, arguing, and just driving my Mom crazy. She finally turned around and yelled, “For crying out loud, didn't you just receive Jesus!”  It really made me think; and it led me to understand that we work every day to be more like Jesus. That was my, Ah-ah moment!” She continued by saying, “I realized then that living in Christ is a constant journey. You literally try more and more each day to be like Jesus. It doesn't happen overnight.”

That young woman discovered something that most Christian adults have difficulty understanding. As Christians, the character of Jesus is our life’s goal; we work on it continuously—day by day; for some of us, minute by minute. It is not simply attending church services, and taking communion. It is a level of thinking, believing, and an evolutionary building of our moral resolve. It is a standard of living with the understanding that we are tested daily in our interactions with others, and in the way we live in this world. Not because we are judged by our works; but, because we consider ourselves children of God and have discovered that living in keen awareness of God’s desire for our lives, is much more advantageous to us than not. 

We strive daily to be more like Jesus in all we do, because simply put, we believe we are sons and daughters of the Most High God. L.

Study Reference: Ephesians 1:18-20 
From: "Becoming More Like Jesus." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Tungnam HK