"And David said to Saul, "Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine."  And Saul said to David, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him; for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth.”"        1 Samuel 17:32-33


The story of David’s conquest of Goliath is probably one of the most famous stories in the Bible.  It would be easy to examine David’s conquering of Goliath as a metaphor for whatever battles you might be facing, however, let’s look at something else.  

Although as children we believed David was about 12 or 13 years old when he met Goliath, it is much more probable that he was in his late teens to mid-twenties. As the youngest of eight boys, we can imagine he was a little rambunctious, with that wonderful agility young men get from working outdoors—strong, sinewy, and muscular. His responsibility of caring for his father’s sheep was probably a great way to keep him out of trouble while learning the responsibilities of a shepherd, a task not taken very lightly in tribal Israel. When Jesse, David’s father, asked him to take provisions to his older brothers who had been perched atop a mountain for forty days prepped for war against the Philistines; chances are, he had no idea David was planning to stay! After all, he was not even dressed for battle!  

Let’s recap the story for those who don’t remember the details.  After hearing David’s bravado while speaking with his brothers and the other soldiers, Saul’s soldiers, recounting David’s bravery, take David to the King. By this time, King Saul had already lost God’s favor due to disobedience; and, unbeknownst to Saul, Samuel the Prophet had already anointed David to be the next King of Israel.  While speaking to King Saul, David repeats the same level of bravado he used while speaking to the soldiers.  Out of options, and as fearful as the rest of his army, King Saul, a massive man, offers David his own oversized attire to fight Goliath.  David sheds Saul’s attire, and straps on his own unique armament, a slingshot and 5 smooth stones, as his weapons of choice. 

Think about this. Did Saul really expect for David to return undefeated? No. He actually sent him out there to die. Saul was simply trying to buy time, or even worse—surrender!  He had no idea that God’s favor was with David.
We can imagine David tending sheep, wondering when he was going to get the chance to join his brothers on the field of battle, daydreaming of a time when he could show the Philistines, and all the enemies of God, God’s strength. 

There are going to be times in your life when you too will be thrust into battle, simply to buy time for someone else who, running out of options, has no idea what else to do!  You will be called to step into the gap; and, they will try to give you their armaments to fight, but theirs will not be a custom fit for you.  At that time, and on that day, they will have no idea that God is using them to help you step into your destiny.  And, like King Saul, they will have absolutely no clue that your time has come!  The question is -will YOU be ready?  L. 

Study Reference: 1 Samuel 17:1-58, 18:6-15 
From: "Will You Be Ready?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Matthew Henry; stocksnap

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

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

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

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

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

  “But this I say, he which sows sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which sows bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purpose in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work: As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; He hath given to the poor: His righteousness remains forever.”       2 Corinthians 9:6-9


The principle of blessing and serving others is very basic; it is a continuance of the Blessing Cycle God has bestowed on you and your family. In fact, in many instances it can be a cycle that began long before you were born. 

When I was 10 years old, I watched as my Grandmother created a “care box” full of supplies for a neighbor in the small town where she lived. The neighbor was apparently going through a rough time financially, and was having difficulty feeding her family.  My grandparents were certainly not wealthy. However, they were more fortunate than many others in their small town in Central America; because, they had a small income from several farms and a monthly income in U.S. dollars from my parents and other family members in America.

As I watched my Grandmother stockpile all the supplies she bought into the box, I asked her who the supplies were for. —A little stunned by her response, I said, "But Grandma, you don't even like that woman!"  And she said, “I don't do this for her, I do this for you.” —Looking at her in disbelief, I said, “-Huh, me?” She repeated her statement, and further explained, “I do it so that if YOU ever find yourself in need, someone will do this for you.”  Somehow, even at ten years old, I understood.  Now that she has passed on, I realize that I have been blessed many times due to her acts of kindness.  And now, I have lived long enough to see acts of kindness from others extended to members of my own family.

The Blessing Cycle is a really simple premise. However, if you really need to fully understand this concept, here it is; bless others with your gifts, talents, and /or fortune, so you and your generation / descendants will be continuously blessed.  L.

Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 9:6-9
From: "Continuing The Blessing Cycle." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

   "...Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, forever. Amen.  For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.”      Matthew 6:11-15


Here's the thing about forgiveness, it is really basic. You must forgive those who have hurt you, because if you do not it will make YOU sick, literally!  Unforgiveness only hurts YOU. Yes, YOU!  The other person is walking around living their life while you are in pain reliving the issue. Let it go, and let God handle it!  I am not saying it is easy; unforgiveness coupled with deep emotional anger can be powerful opposition. But every time you think about it, talk about it, or reiterate it, you are damaging your own body by making your immune system weak. 

The Bible says in Mark 3:27, “No man can enter into a strong man’s house, and spoil his goods; except he will first bind the strong man, and then he will spoil his house.”  In other words, if you are walking in the strength of God, nothing can harm you unless it binds you first. Unforgiveness is a way to take you off your game, binding you so that you can be robbed of the principles you hold dear. It is a way of tying your spirit down, weakening your armor so you cannot receive the blessings God has planned for your life.
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And, since I know how difficult it can be to forgive someone who has damaged you to your very core, here's my advice. Every time you think about it, want to talk about it, or start to reiterate the incident, stop!  Start to pray for that person instead, and don't forget to pray for yourself.  I know it sounds a little corny and a little too simple; however, keep doing this every time the issue rears its ugly head. Eventually, you will be able to dismiss the issue. 

I must tell you, if the person has damaged you more than once, and seems to continuously travel in this direction, depending on the hierarchical position that you have placed them in your life, you may also have to dismiss them; or, get used to spending a lot more time on your knees.  L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 6:11-15 
From: "The "F" Word."  In the Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Adobe stock

     “O keep my soul, and deliver me; let me not be ashamed, for I put my trust in Thee.”   ​Psalm 25:20


In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living,  has several devotions on the book of Job; however, Job is not my favorite book of the Bible.  I love the prose and the poetry penned as Job is questioning God. The writing is absolutely beautiful.  And, I especially love when God responds.  I find it fascinating that God actually pauses to ask Job, “Where were YOU when I laid the foundation of the earth?  Who shut up the sea with doors when it broke forth as if it had issued out of the womb?  -Were YOU there ...When I wrapped it in swaddling cloth... and said, here shall thou come, but no further... Here shall your proud waves be stayed!” 

So yes, I am fascinated that the sea does not break forth as tsunamis each and every day, on every continent, on every island, killing all non-swimming life on the planet.  And yes, it is with pride that I believe in God and the promises of His Word.  It is with pride, and sometimes, much too proudly, that I put my trust in Him and prompt others to do the same.  –But, sometimes, like Job, God will question us.  Sometimes, God will ask us, “Were YOU there?”   Sometimes, He will shame us into understanding that, He is not at our command; we are at His.  And, no matter how wonderfully arrayed we are displayed, to Him, we are but dust.  It is the reason that, as Christians, we come to Him under the covering of Jesus. 

So Beloved, there will be times when you've put your trust in God; times when you've prayed, pled, begged, supplicated, pondered, confessed, cried, screamed; or, even been shamed into understanding that, sometimes, you simply will not get what you want, when YOU want it. –It is God's way of asking you, "Were YOU there ...?"  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 25:20
From: “Your Thoughts: Were You There?"In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock

  "Show me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy Paths.”     Psalm 25:4


Although God’s Path is perfect for us, it may not be as sexy or even as exciting as the alternative. Each day we make the choice to either follow God’s desire for our life or to follow our own.  The selection can be the result of our own tenaciousness to follow God; or, it can be the outcome of a failure to select wisely the first time around.  Either way, we will eventually learn that God’s Will, will be done.  Sometimes we select God’s Path simply because, we get so tired of selecting the wrong one so often that, we make the decision to go against our own natural inclination of selecting the wrong choice.  So, as a result, we end up asking ourselves WWJD –What would Jesus do? Just to keep ourselves on track, and going in the right direction.  
 
The Bible calls God’s Path, the narrow road; or, more poetically, "the road less traveled."  It is called this simply because, not everyone will make the decision to travel its path.  Unlike the winding detour-filled path of the wider road, the narrow road can appear straight with few, if any, detours.  At the beginning, when looking at the two roads, we can become bedazzled by all the twists and turns of the wider road; believing that, all the twists and turns will mean there is a world of excitement ahead. Young, silly, and confused, we often select the wider road. Although in hindsight, the distinctions between the two roads were easy to see.   

In the end, the choice will be yours to decide; will it be your way, or God’s Way?  If you are just starting out and trying to make a decision, this is a pretty straight forward question with very little camouflage. –The answer will be determined, by just how battered or blessed you want your life to be.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 25:4
From: Your Thoughts: “The Road Less Traveled.”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Wordpress

  "For wisdom is a defense, and money is a defense: but the excellence of knowledge is, that wisdom gives life to them that have it.”     Ecclesiastes 7:12


In The Balancing Act I wrote, "Achieving true balance is individual. It is your ideal understanding of how God responds in your life, and can be the difference whether your gifts are used for greatness or mediocrity —success or failure." 

And, by the way, just because I wrote this doesn't mean that I have an inkling of precisely how you should get there. That is why the achievement of balance is determined by the individual. What is balance for others may be complete chaos for you, and vice versa. The only thing that we can be certain of is, if God is missing from your life you cannot have true balance. God placed Himself in your breath, so that in the very action of breathing, your soul would seek Him. 

Planning for success is also akin to balance. It allows you to develop a deeper perspective of the work it takes for you to achieve your goal. It offers a general road map so you can see all the options placed before you, determining your values, codes, and morals. It forces us to create a standard for our life, showing others the centripetal force that governs our actions. And, more importantly, it offers a testimony of the plans you made for your life, and the plans God placed before you in spite of the ones you created for yourself. 

Achieving success is also individual. I know for some people, there’s a prevailing belief that success has to do with money. However, believing this is deceptive; success has very little to do with money. The only people who believe success is money, are the ones who don't have it, or just received it. Money helps you buy things—more stuff, and, sometimes people, but it cannot buy God. It cannot buy faith, peace, and it rarely buys true love. And, I say rarely because, sometimes in our own confusion and ignorance, God blesses us anyway with the person we really need in our life. 

Ultimately, when you have balance in your life, you will ask God for guidance to achieve “success” in your venture, your project—your life.  If you do not, well,  ...God is quite patient.  L.

Study Reference: Ecclesiastes 7:12-14
From: "Achieving More Balance." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Burst

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"Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves; be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.”     Matthew 10:16



Blink, The Power of Thinking Without Thinking, by Malcolm Gladwell is a fascinating book; and, Mr. Gladwell is easily becoming one of my favorite authors. In Blink, he outlines the many ways we subconsciously absorb information without really thinking about it; and, further delves into how our subconscious perceptions undermine our conscious perceptions without us really "knowing" it, shaping our personalities, actions, habits, likes, dislikes, etc. 

As I read the book, the thought occurred to me how important it was to streamline the things (i.e. movies, news, books, music, and other forms of entertainment) we constantly ingest so we are not inclined to do things that go against our moral resolve. According to the book, a grouping of words or images with key connections, can penetrate our subconscious and manipulate us into doing something, without complete awareness of why we are doing it.  From a marketing perspective, I know this is true; we call it advertising, or more precise, subliminal advertising.
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I interrupt young people all the time, especially young men, if I hear them rapping the illicit lyrics of a song, certain that they are consciously unaware of the words they are reiterating. In many instances they tell me that they simply love the "beat" of the song, not really paying attention to the lyrics. However, I often explain to them that, what they do not know is that the lyrics sit in their subconscious mind manipulating them to act in ways that may go against their conscious behavior. 

As Christians we are not immune to subliminal advertising, we respond exactly the same way as non-Christians. The difference is, we consciously read, listen, and strengthen our moral character by embracing biblical principles. However, we are part of society, and everything is secular—everything is cultural. I am not saying that in order to love God, we should sit idling in a monastery or convent; no, our eyes should be wide open. I believe you should be aware of the traits of society and culture, so that it does not become a lure or trap for you. Becoming an ostrich with your head buried in the sand does not make you immune—it makes you prey.  Jesus deeply understood this when He said, “…be as wise as a serpent, and as harmless as a dove.”  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 10:16 
From: "The Power to Blink."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Masks by Alexander Khokhlov

 "And command thou the people, saying, Ye are to pass the coast of your brethren the children of Esau, which dwell in Seir; and they shall be afraid of you; take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore; meddle not with them; for I will not give you of their land, no, not so much as a foot-breadth; because I have given mount Seir unto Esau for a possession. Ye shall buy meat of them for money, that ye may eat; and ye shall also buy water of them for money, that ye may drink. For the Lord thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand; He knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness; these forty years the Lord thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.” 
Deuteronomy 2:4-7 

 
It is interesting to note that during the 40 years that Israel walked in the wilderness, they lack nothing; God took care of their every need.  Furthermore, by the time they found themselves leaving the wilderness and going towards the Promised Land, God would instruct them not to “meddle” with certain people they found along the way.   Since, the people whose land that they would pass through had already received a previous promise from Him.  In this case, the land the Israelites would pass through had already been given to the descendants of Esau and Lot; men who were highly favored by God through their own stories. 

There are going to be times when there are things, people, or opportunities you desire, pray for, or simply want that have already been promised to someone else.  And, in order to receive it, you will have to pay for it, sometimes dearly —simply because it is not yours for the taking, and will not come freely. There will  be a cost extracted from you for the provisions you will need.  However, isn't it wonderful to know that once you have been given the promise of a blessing to come, God will not allow anyone or anything to take it from you, except maybe your own arrogance and ego.

Hasn't it happened to you where you worked on a task, a job, or had an opportunity where it seemed the heavens opened for you?  Everything you touched flourished easily and flawlessly; it was simply yours for the taking.  Your ears were fine-tuned to God, and your steps seemed custom-ordered just for you. You listened intently. Then, because of your ego, arrogance, or lack of obedience, the next tiny issue, something that should have been simple, turned into a major dilemma and somehow you had to pay for it dearly. 

Take the time today to pray for a sense of discernment; the ability to know the difference between what is for you from God, and what is not.   This way you don’t waste time confusing the two; trying desperately to take the things that are not for you, paying dearly; and, ignoring the things that really are for you and not seizing the opportunity.   L. 

Study Reference: Deuteronomy 2:2, Genesis 11:24-27, 12:1-4
From: "When It Is Not Yours."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: ​Kian Krashesky 

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

       









  "      "The Heavens declare the Glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork.  Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where Their Voice is not heard. Their Line is gone out through all the earth, and Their Words to the end of the world.”    Psalm 19:1-4
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When we really understand the Glory of God, we learn to see Him in everything. The first few years of my life were spent in the idyllic regions of Costa Rica, a place where anything anyone really needs is gained from the land.  At the time, most people were farmers; they bought and sold what they needed from each other, placing great value in the earth and the yield of the land. My grandfather, also a farmer, knew the time of day from the position of the sun; and, my grandmother planned her menu from the availability of produce from the earth. Like all rural people, they spent a considerable amount of time looking at the sky for the details that invariably marked their daily lives. 

As a New Yorker, things are different. You can buy whatever you want, whenever you want it. Whether it is in season here or not, is irrelevant; it is in season somewhere in the world and this means you can have it here.  Most New Yorkers never look at the sky unless there is something specific occurring; we are too busying planning the details of our daily lives through our Galaxies and iPhones.   

When I read the Psalm above, it truly gave me pause. I had to stop for a moment and consider the words. Take a moment and reread the passage. Do you truly understand the vast scope of David’s words? 

Consider this; the Voice of God is spoken in the infinite dawning of every day!  In the birth of a new day, God’s Voice speaks to the world.  And, in the beauty and cover of night, He speaks His Knowledge to the world. There is no place on earth where He does not speak His Blessing of day and night to every living entity in the world.

To be more accurate, every living thing, human or beast, flora or fauna, creeping or crawling, flying or swimming; in every nation, speaking any language, in any religion, of any age, whether rich or poor, must acknowledge His Voice manifested in the blanketed presence of every morning and evening—every day and night. It cannot go unnoticed!
​It orders your steps, and guides your life.  There is nowhere to hide from its presence, it occurs whether you are present or not, and continues to manifest whether you acknowledge it or not.      
             
Think about that  the next time you are feeling alone, uninspired, or unloved; and, instead of feeling sadness, look up at the sky, acknowledge the day or night, and say thank you Father for your awesome presence in my life and in this world.   L.  

Study Reference: Psalm 19:1-6
From: "The Heavens Declare God. (l)" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Boonstown

   "Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.”    1 Corinthians 7:23-24


Imagine being at the tribunal that would eventually lead to the fulfillment of Jesus' death at Calvary.  Although Jesus responded only a few times, He truly had the opportunity and strength to defend Himself against the accounts of the Sanhedrin. Instead, He accepted their accusations without a fight, understanding that His sacrifice would ultimately save the human race. 

Eventually, as a Christian, you will have to make a sacrifice that will benefit others without an apparent benefit to yourself; you may have even done so already. However, there’s one small caveat. Unlike Jesus, your sacrifice may lead you to some type of resentment against your fellow Christians, or even, the church itself. You may even believe you did not receive your price for the sacrifice, i.e. recognition, position, accolades, fanfare, love, etc. 

It is so easy for the human ego to get caught up in the pomp and circumstance of Christian churches, where we eagerly desire to become part of the hierarchy.  Resist the urge.  Somehow, desperately keep in mind that any sacrifice you make is not for you; and, it’s not really for others; it is for God. We can never repay the sacrifice of Jesus. Our worship is not enough, our praise is not enough, and what we believe to be our sacrifice is not enough. Our life and love is the only thing we can offer; it is the only thing that counts. 

To really understand our sacrifice fully, think about this; has a child you loved ever given you a homemade gift?  Do you remember your reaction? Did you display it with pride and satisfaction?  Now, could that gift really equal any of the gifts you have given to that child?  -No.   Your love sees the sacrifice, time, and love that the child has put into the gift.  Our gifts, sacrifices, worship, and praise is like that to God. Know that God loves you already, and anything you bring to Him is accepted with Love. So beloved, do not wait for your sacrifice to garner recognition, position, accolades, fanfare, love, etc. from others; know that you already have it from God. -L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:23-24 
From: "Sacrificial Deeds." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Soe Zeya Tun​

     

 "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


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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 life 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! -So, Today, 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

             
   "Give ear, O Lord, unto my prayer, and attend to the voice of my supplications. In the day of my trouble I will call upon Thee; for Thou will answer me.”    Psalm 86:6-7


There are times when we are bombarded with all kinds of issues.  We allow these issues to become our idols, giving them all our time, attention, and devotion. We allow them to take control of our lives, not remembering that above all, there is God. This seems like a grandiose statement. And yet, no problem should take precedence over God; since, every problem is a proving ground for us to use our faith. 

Problems prove our faith. We may not like our problems; yet, they offer proof to all watching that we really are the kinds of Christians that actually believe what we say about Christ. It proves to those watching that we really believe what we sing about Christ. It continues to prove what we think; and, more importantly, how we act when our backs are against the wall and all seems bleak.  Do you really believe, or are you simply playing a Believer on reality television. 

Consider this, everything that you use today, whether it is your cell phone or the toilet, evolved because of a problem. Something began as a problem and someone created a solution for it. We could not see in the dark, so we created a torch, then a lantern, then a bulb; until, we captured a glowing gas in a tube and called it fluorescence and neon.  So Really, is there anything too hard for God? 

Stop and take a look around. Signs of trouble are everywhere, in everything, and yes, even for everyone. For everyone, we have hospitals, supermarkets, malls, entertainment, music, etc.; all providing a solution to a problem. If the solution is not for everyone, it won’t last very long. It will cause another problem, and someone will create a solution to fix that problem. So, if we, with our limited ideas and understanding can create solutions to our mundane problems, then, can’t God provide a solution for our truly grand problems? 
Nothing is above God. There is nothing that can be a problem for you where God cannot offer the solution--nothing!

Today’s text reminds you that, God has promised that in your day of trouble He will answer you, as long as you call on His name.  And, just in case you are still thinking, “There is one problem that God cannot solve, —the problem I’m going through right now!”   Oh really?  Think about this.   God even devised a permanent solution for death, Jesus Christ.  So really, is there anything too hard for God?  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 86:6-7 
From: "In The Day of Trouble."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

       “I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep, for Thou Lord, only maketh me dwell in safety.”     Psalm 4:8


Let’s be honest. –Not everyone goes to sleep in peace and safety, even within the body of Christ. There are some people among us that are caught in the ravages of all types of personal wars and prisons, both literal and psychological. We can be afraid of life, our mates or spouses, current circumstances, decisions we have made, or decisions to be made. We can even fear God at various times in our life.

Depending on how you were raised, praying at bedtime offered solace. Ordinarily, most Christians would never send their children to sleep without asking them to pray aloud for their own safety through the night. Yet, bedtime prayer is not only for children; it is also for adults.  And, although it may not be considered sexy to pray at bedtime, it allows you to relinquish your cares, problems, and even people, to the only One who can give us peace. In fact, married couples should consider praying together at bedtime. It will aid the dismissal of any disputes or hurtful words uttered during the day, while putting into practice the biblical verse found in Ephesians 4:26-27, 31-32:

"Be ye angry, and sin not; let not the sun go down upon your wrath; neither give place to the devil. Let all bitterness, wrath, and anger, and clamor, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice; and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you."  

Pray every morning upon rising, for the day ahead, and every night before bedtime, to release the day; it puts to rest all the issues of your life, giving you peace.  –And, it will cover every member of your household, even you.  L. 

Study Reference: Psalm 4:8
Your Thoughts: “Peace At Bedtime.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: Sarah Treanor

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


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

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

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

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

   

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


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

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

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

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

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

     


“I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised.“    
Psalm 18:3 a


When is God worthy to be praised?

There are some people who will only praise God when they are in church. And, there are others who will only sing the songs found in their hymnal. However, praise is personal; often, our songs are our heartfelt prayers set to music.  Whether we are happy or sad, or full of joy or sorrow, the songs we sing are our way of calling out for God’s mercy and goodness.  It is our soul’s poetry to Him and it can be completely random and made up as we go. So remember, when you call on God you do not have to be eloquent, on key, in unison, or even audible; your song simply has to be a song that encompasses your heartfelt love and honest praise. 
So today, lift your voice, sing your song, and Praise His Name!  L.  
​
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal.

Study Reference: Psalm 18:3
From: "Praise" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

    "Then spoke Joshua to the LORD in the day when the LORD delivered up the Amorites before the children of Israel, and He said in the sight of Israel, "Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon." And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed, until the people had avenged themselves upon their enemies. Is not this written in the book of Jasher? So the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and hasted not to go down about a whole day. And there was no day like that before it or after it that the LORD hearkened unto the voice of a man; for the LORD fought for Israel.”   Joshua 10:12-14
 
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The book of Joshua can be viewed as a modern-day metaphor for the types of trials we encounter where Christians need to prepare for personal battles.  This is primarily true because, many of its stories and battles take place in the desert.  Within its pages, readers are taught how to fight in a desert experience while maintaining deep faith.  The thing is, a desert experience takes more than preparation, and it takes more than bodily strength; it is the type of experience that requires total dependence on God. Why?  Because, in the desert, we can never predict or prepare enough water (faith), to quench the deep thirst (spiritual dependence), caused by the burning sun (conflict); we simply never know just how hot it is going to be or how our body will react to the pelting heat of the sun. 

The three verses found above are the fulfillment of a promise God made to Joshua while in the midst of fighting yet another desert battle.  In this passage, Joshua asks God to hold back the sun from going down and the moon from rising, so his army could annihilate Gibeon’s enemies without violating the Sabbath. 

While I read the surrounding paragraphs, all I could think about was this. If God could hold back the sun and the moon from a full orbit for one whole day, what problem could I possibly have that He cannot solve?  When we look more closely, we have to believe that it is our lack of faith that inhibits the release of His solutions to our problems.  We are the ones who inhibit God's solutions!  If we exhibit extraordinary faith—faith beyond that which we normally consider natural; then, metaphorically speaking, the sun and the moon can be held back from their orbit. 

Like all tribulations in our lives, our Faith will be tested to the extreme; since, it is only in the extreme tests that we are able to exhibit the kind of extraordinary Faith, which enables God to literally stop the sun and the moon from moving.   L.  

Study Reference: Joshua 10:6-14  
From: "The Day The Sun Stood Still." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
Photo: unknown ​

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


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

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

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

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

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