“Servants be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ.  Not with eye service, as men pleasers, but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart: with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men. Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.” Ephesians 6:5-8
 


In the story of Elisha healing Naaman, the personal servants of both men play a significant part in the story. One wanted the blessing of healing for his master, and the other wanted the blessing of his master's gifts for himself. 
When we work for someone, whether we are working at the company just for the money, or for the love of the job, we should be able to bless those in charge; owners, managers, administrators, etc. If you truly cannot bless those at the helm, or the company you actually work for, maybe it's time for you to find a new job with people you can respect and bless!  Right now you are thinking of your boss, and truly considering closing this book permanently!

This may seem peculiar to some people, yet our example is found in the story of Naaman and the Prophet Elisha.  Both servants made an impact on the story found in 2 Kings, Chapter 5.  Gehazi, Elisha's assistant, was a man who saw Elisha heal and bless many people. The personal servant to Naaman, is a man the Bible does not name.
Yet, Naaman's servant blessed his master's life, understanding that by blessing his master, it would have a direct impact on his own life.  And, it was due to his direct urging that Naaman was healed of the curse leprosy.
Can you imagine how valued this servant was to Naaman after he was healed?

On the contrary, Elisha's servant, Gehazi, surprisingly did not have the ability to understand God's provisions for Elisha.  Instead of blessing the wondrous works of God done through his boss, he envied his ability.  He did not understand that in blessing Elisha, he too would be blessed.  And so, he misunderstood why Elisha refused to accept the gifts offered by Naaman for the healing bestowed by God.  Had he understood, he would have blessed Elisha, adding a full richness and blessing to his own life.  Instead, he opened his life up to receiving the fullness of the curse leprosy.  Once stricken with the disease leprosy, he was useless to Elisha.  His life could not show the blessings bestowed by God, just the curse. 

Bless those around you.  If you truly cannot bless those who work in your midst, then why are you there? Find someplace else to work where you can bless those around you; or else, begin to make a conscious effort to bless the ones you currently work with. Look around your workplace and bless everything with goodness, uplifting the name of Jesus; it is the most powerful name in the world.  If you cannot do so, then going to work every day with envy, jealousy, covetousness, and a bad spirit in your heart will only harm you, not those you work for or with.  So the challenge is, change your attitude or change your job.  L.  

Study Reference: 2 Kings 5, Ephesians 6:5-8  
​From: "A Tale of Two Servants."   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Getty Images

"For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...”   Proverbs 23:7


We believe that being in prison is living behind bars; however, being in prison can be completely mental.  
You can live behind walls and be free; or, you can live free and still be behind walls.

While watching a documentary on rural India, the show’s host noticed that all the adult elephants were tethered with a small density jute rope secured to young insignificant trees, not more than five or six inches in diameter. When he asked one of the elephant owners how he was able to keep an adult elephant tethered with such an old rope any adult human could easily break, the trainer replied that when the elephants are very young, its trainer ties it to a strong tree using a very strong rope. The baby elephant tugs and tugs, but it is much too young to break the rope. The trainer continues to use the rope until the young elephant accepts that he cannot break free. From that point on, it becomes unnecessary for the trainer to harness the elephant with a heavy rope, any rope will do. When the elephant is mature, large enough to kill its captive owner and break the rope, it does nothing because it has been trained from infancy that any attempt to break the rope is futile. 

The Bible says, “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he;...”   So, your perception is everything!

We often place ourselves in predetermined prisons.  Prisons we create in our minds because of something someone said or did to us; or, something we said or did to them.  Like the elephants in our story, there are paper-thin chains holding us that we believe are high density ropes. --Imaginary ropes that in reality, can be easily broken; yet somehow, we still hold on to the imagery of bondage.  

With the acceptance of Jesus Christ as our Savior, the Bible says, “...old things are passed away, all things become new.”  We have put on a new person who is no longer captive, but free.  Jesus offered you a truly new mindset; a paradigm shift in determining who you are and who you can be! 

If this is something you truly, truly understand, then why are you still keeping yourself tied to that small, minuscule, infant-size, fledgling tree with those silly crepe-paper chains of unforgiveness, self-doubt, unrealized goals, and old self-deprecating thoughts? 
–You have already been freed!  –Simply take one giant step, break that rope, and move forward!  L.

Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 5:17, Proverbs 23:7
From: “Prisons.” In The Master’s Hands II: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: kidspot ​

​“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.  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

​
"And Isaac said unto Jacob, Come near, I pray thee, that I may feel thee, my son, whether thou be my very son Esau or not. And Jacob went near unto Isaac, his father; and he felt him, and said, The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau. And he discerned him not, because his hands were hairy as his brother, Esau's hands; so he blessed him.”  
Genesis 27:21-22 
 

Although God may have a blessing for us, He has a way of allowing us to reap whatever we have sown. So, it is difficult to discuss Jacob and his uncle Laban without a discussion on deceit, and the perpetuation of even more deceit within Jacob's lineage. After Jacob and his mother created the elaborate “scam” to gain his brother Esau’s birthright, he literally sets himself up for a lifetime of grief, manifested from his own original deceit. Much of his life would become the perpetuation of the lie that began when he was a young man, and it would not end until he was quite old. 

It begins with Laban’s bait and switch of the wife Jacob really wants, with the one he actually marries. This sets up a level of competition within his household that would plague his marriage so much; it would be inherited by his sons. It continues with the scam his own sons would set in motion by selling Joseph, his favorite son, as a slave into the hands of his enemies. It perpetuates further, into the life of Joseph, where Potiphar’s wife would attempt to scam him into becoming her lover. And finally, it ends with Joseph pulling the final scam which would end the family's veil of deceit when he orders his brothers to bring their father to Egypt. We have to assume that the final scam pulled by Joseph, a man who truly trusted God, was much different than the previous ones. Why? —Because, Joseph's scam was based in love for his family. It offered no gain for himself, thereby ending the entangled web of deceit begun by his father. 

Suppose you knew ahead of time, that an elaborate lie or scam benefiting you greatly today, would manifest itself deep into your entire lineage, would you still do it?  What about drugs, alcohol, or criminal behavior?  Would you be the one to break the cycle?

Today, we look at Jacob’s theft of his brother’s birthright with some level of smugness. It is hard to believe that anyone would go through all that for a blessing. Yet, we know that God does not take back a blessing He has already bestowed. The actual passing of the birthright was not something literal to be passed on by man; it was a spiritual blessing bestowed by God. The thought that occurs to me every time I read this story is that God had already planned from the beginning to bless Jacob, just as He blessed Esau without the actual passing of the birthright from his father. Jacob complicated his own blessing by adding the lie—the deceit.  

So today, as we go through our lives, let’s be careful not to set in motion a deceptive seed that will perpetuate itself far into the lives of our family lineage, corrupting our blessing.  Since, unlike Jacob, we already know how the outcome will affect us. —It absolutely will impact our family.   L.  
 
Study Reference: Genesis 27:18-44, Deuteronomy 2:4-7
From: "Corrupting Our Blessing." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: The Troll's Tongue, Norwegian fjord

​“…That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”      1 Corinthians 2:5


Have you ever been in a rush to get somewhere and someone unknown and/or in distress said, “Excuse me?”interrupting your schedule?  Do you brush the person off?   Or, do you stop for a moment to see if you can be of assistance?  What about interruptions caused by family members, or those you love?  Can you look pass your own needs to see that they may be in distress or in need?  With all the media, mobile devices, and unscheduled events purposely trying to distract you from your life’s purpose, how you deal with the interruption says a lot about you and how you will react to life’s interruptions. 

God has many different ways of getting our attention; sometimes it’s a whisper, and sometimes it’s a bomb.  Either way, it causes us to pause, rethink, and re-purpose our lives. The whisper may come in the form of a nudge to get something done, primarily for someone else. It pulls on your heartstrings, and although it is out of character, you just know it is the right thing to do. The bombs are a little different. They are usually highly personal. They propel your level of thinking or behaving, a quantum leap forward; but, in a completely different direction —with no turning back! 

...God does not really allow you to turn backwards. Similar to Lot’s wife and the children of Israel in their  mountainous experience, you either go forward or you stagnate, feeling sorry for yourself while reliving the heydays of smooth roads and sunny skies. Or, you forge ahead towards the new path set before you.  Sometimes you will know it is in the will of God for you to take the mountainous road ahead. And sometimes, you will simply have to travel by faith, understanding that, “this too shall pass.”

Faith is always tested.  At times it may come in the form of an interruption; when it does, the lesson is never in the interruption. The lesson will always be in how you react to the interruption.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 2:5-9
Excerpt from:"Interruptions."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wallpaperup

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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  “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.  He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.  He restores my soul…”        Psalm 23:1-3
 

No matter where we live in the world, somehow when we find the beauty of God’s natural landscape, it soothes our soul. It prompts us to breathe deeply, sit serenely, and simply be. It doesn’t matter if you prefer the ocean, the mountains, or the woods.  It is almost as if our soul acknowledges God’s handiwork, pausing for a well-deserved moment of reverence. 

If you live in a rural town, you probably take your natural surroundings for granted.  And, being in the city can make you a little anxious without understanding why you feel completely under siege every time you visit.  If you live in the city, taking a much deserved trip to the countryside, coastline, or mountains, allows your spirit to breathe in the natural elements needed to sustain you.  It is your spirit’s reminder to release the cares of the world and simply take in the replenishing breath of God’s air. 

One day, I watched as four children, all riding various apparatus with wheels, race on the sidewalk of a busy street.  As they were racing up the hill headed my way, the lead racer, a boy on a bicycle about seven or eight years old, slowed down and got off his bicycle in the middle of the walkway. “—Wait! Wait! —Watch-out!”  He gently shouted to the other children coming up behind him.  “Wait! —Look!  Be careful!”  He continued saying while looking down at the ground. The others, wondering what could possibly prompt the leader of the race to descend from his sleek black two-wheeled chariot, slowed their wheels to a halt. “—What? —What is it?”  They each repeated one after another.  As they all huddled, he pointed to a single small yellow daisy on the ground. The petals on the daisy were no larger than the size of a quarter, and the stem no longer than two inches.  “O-O-Oh,” they all said slowly, marveling at the fallen daisy on the sidewalk.  Then, one by one, they slowly mounted their respective chariots, maneuvering around that little daisy, leaving it as they found it; untouched by their hands, or the racing wheels of their respective chariots. I stood there in awe of the entire scene. 

I thought about that incident the entire day; wondering why that young leader of the pack felt inclined to descend from his racing chariot so easily, giving up what appeared to be that carefree jubilant spirit most children hold on to while riding their bikes; simply to look at a small yellow daisy in the middle of the sidewalk. 

Life can be so chaotic. Today there is so much hustle and bustle mesmerizing us, it inhibits the flow of God’s energy to and from our spirit, inducing us to easily lose focus of the things that really matter.  That small child, even in his race to the finish line, was still able to stop and find the extraordinary beauty of a small yellow daisy.

So, the question today is; when was the last time you descended from your racing chariot to indulge in the simple beauty of a small yellow daisy?  L.     

Study Reference: Psalm 23:1-3
From: "He Restores My Soul" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: web discover

      “If My people, which are called by My Name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek My Face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”   2 Chronicles 7:14


Jesus did many miraculous things while He walked among the Disciples; yet, He also took the time to teach multitudes of people how to pray. We know God answers prayers because, we live and breathe.  And, I would suggest that, if you have never had a prayer answered, you must be praying for the wrong things. The email I received below is quite powerful. It shares the story from one of our readers who started a Morning Prayer group after initially praying with a co-worker.  Each day, she led her group of nurses in beginning their daily shift routine with prayer. Imagine the power put forth by a group of healthcare professionals who began their day with prayer. Below is an update concerning her Morning Prayer Group. 

Hi Lavona,
 
"I just got a chance to read today’s 'Daily' Devotion.'  The latest chapter in my workplace early Morning Prayer session is that it has begun to spread. I don't have to ask anyone to come together anymore; they refuse to work without our prayer session... Needless to say, I didn't know it would take off like it has. This morning I got the shock of my life when my head nurse invited one of our doctors to join our prayer group and he came. At first he said, "Well, I don't know if I really believe in a gray-haired man who is supposed to be hearing us."   But he came, joined our circle, put his arms around his neighbor and we prayed. -It was awesome!!  I'm thinking about it even now and just marvel at the greatness of God. Well,... I'll continue to keep you posted."     -Claudette J.

How would it impact your workday if you and your co-workers began the day with prayer?  How would your group deal with customers, clients, or major issues throughout the day, if your morning began with prayer? You may be thinking, “I can pray alone at my desk for everyone.”  -True. However, Jesus said, “Where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there Am I in the midst of them.” (Matthew 18:20)   So, in coming together with your group, your prayer will be more effectual in your workplace.  When you pray alone, you are praying for yourself and the workplace environment, placing "your" mind at ease. When you pray in a group, you are praying for each person and their respective specifics, whether you know their issues or not. This puts "their" mind at ease, allowing them to relinquish control of "their" problems to God. 

All you need is one other person to start the process. You will be surprised how many people really need prayer in their life, but are afraid to ask. Your presence in your workplace is not to convert the staff; it is to bring the Love of Christ into the environment through you. And remember, just like the physician in Claudette’s letter, it does not matter if they believe, it simply matters that you believe.  L. 

Study Reference: 2 Chronicles 7:14-16 
Excerpt from:"Teaching Prayer." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

 ​“And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a Man with him until the breaking of the day. And when He saw that He prevailed not against him, He touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with Him. And He said; Let Me go, for the day breaks. And he said, I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me. And He said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. And He said, thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel; for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed... And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel; for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.”   Genesis 32:24-28, 30


We often rely on the company and companionship of others because, we are all social beings; and, it offers a sense of belonging to someone other than ourselves. In fact, there are not a lot of people who actually prefer being alone, at least not for long periods of time. Yet, solitude can bring a sense of reflection; and reflection can bring a sense of enlightenment; and enlightenment can bring a sense of purpose; and, a sense of purpose can lead to purposeful action, —the kind of action that ultimately leads to a definitive result. 

In most instances, solitude will allow you to concentrate on those things God needs for you to learn, one lesson at a time. —Think of it as, God’s Independent Study Class. 
Like any class, you will need to bring your past experiences and complete the prerequisites in order to attend. And, like any independent study class, you will need to do the in-depth research —introspection and final prep work on your own. In addition, only if you receive a passing grade will you advance to higher-level classes with greater challenges. However, in God’s Independent Study Class, just when you thought it was time for you to graduate, you find that new classes have been added to your curriculum. 

Every person should have a time to reflect in solitude. A time set aside to commune alone with God, not simply for answers, but also for direction. There are personal revelations that will only occur when you are alone—insights into your personal life which will not occur when you are communing with others. These revelations are part of your personal growth and must be faced alone. Jacob learned this lesson when he took God’s Independent Study Class while planning to reconcile with his brother Esau. During his class, he grappled so long and hard with God for a passing grade that, God changed his name! 

Why not take the time to enroll in God's Independent Study Class? Why not spend some time in solitude so that God can give you the direction that you need to complete His Life Class? Chances are, you will learn far more than you possibly ever imagined.  L.  

Study Reference: Galatians 6:5, Genesis 32:22-30
From:"Finding Solitude." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: Night Sky, pixabay

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


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

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

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

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

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

​"And his servant came near, and spoke unto him, and said, “My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, would thou not have done it? How much rather then, when he saith to thee, “Wash and be clean?”  Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in the Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God; and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean."     2 Kings 5:13-14 

 
There are times when we are certain our blessings will emerge from a source we recognize, ignoring those things or people sent in our path, by God, to redirect our focus.  Sometimes it can be a perfect stranger, a circumstance, or an event, which dramatically impacts a major decision.  Our task is to maintain such a strong connection to God, when it shows up, it will be easily discernible from the other things or people in our lives.  

Today's verse, found in 2 Kings, is the fulfillment of a blessing from God, through the Prophet Elisha.  Naaman was a beloved Captain of the Syrian Army whom, although beloved and revered by the King of Syria for his valor, was stricken with the disease leprosy.

It is interesting to note how Naaman learned of the Prophet Elisha's gift of healing others. The short version is, the Syrians battled with Israel, and as the victors, they kept those who were captured in battle as servants.  One of the captives, a young Hebrew girl, was given to Naaman's wife as a servant. One day the maiden told her mistress that she knew of a Prophet in Samaria who could heal Naaman of his leprosy. Hearing this from his wife, Naaman goes to the King of Syria for an introductory letter to the King of Samaria, requesting a meeting with the Prophet Elisha. When he arrives in Samaria, Naaman is instructed by Elisha to dip in the Jordan River seven times to heal himself, but like us, his arrogance and ego almost prevents him from receiving God's blessing. 

Although the healing was miraculous, today let's consider the circumstances that led to the healing—the truly miraculous part.  First, we have to assume Naaman treated all the servants in his household quite well, since, the Hebrew servant girl felt inclined to offer help to her new captor.  Secondly, Naaman's own personal servant had no fear in recommending to his master that he follow Elisha's instructions precisely. And lastly, because of the sincere urgings of his personal servant, Naaman reconsiders his own arrogance and follows Elisha's instructions precisely, submerging himself into the Jordan River exactly seven times.  When he finally emerged after the seventh dip, he was completely healed. 

Today, we may or may not have servants; however, consider this. How do you treat those whom you consider      beneath you?  What about those employees on your job who are your subordinates?  What about those you consider less fashionable, less educated, younger, unattractive, or of a lower income group?  Had Naaman not respected or listened to the urgings offered by both his servants, he would not have experienced the healing prepared for him by God. 

How we treat those whom we command, or those who serve us, can be the difference between receiving a blessing or not.  So remember, the most wondrous thing about receiving a blessing from God is, we never know through whom the blessing will manifest.  We simply cannot predict who will be chosen to fulfill God's blessings in our life. Furthermore, we have no idea when, where, or how our blessings will take form.  It is thoroughly uncanny; it can come from anyone, anywhere, at any time.  We only need to be prepared for it by faith, and to accept it graciously and with gratitude when it occurs.  L.   

Study Reference: 2 Kings 5:13-14
From: "An Uncommon Blessing." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: creative digital

 "Behold, I have graven thee upon the palms of My hands; thy walls are continually before Me.”   Isaiah 49:16 


The Bible chronicles the life of King David from the time he was a shepherd defeating Goliath, to his anointing as king of Israel; it also documents his countless exploits, and his eventual death. We know the episodes of his deepest despair and his most amazing triumphs. And, although God called him “...A man after Mine Own Heart,” (Acts 13:22) David was not allowed to administer the immense undertaking that would become The Tabernacle of God; a building worthy enough to hold the Ark of the Covenant. While we look at David’s life, it is easy for readers to see how the Spirit of God governed his life, both as a youth, and as an adult. We can easily understand those times when God was displeased with his actions; as in, his disobedience in taking a census. An act which resulted in the death of 70,000 as his penalty; or, his affair with Bathsheba, which resulted in both the death of her husband and David’s child. 

For the most part, many of you are successful in your own right. You have worked hard, studied well, and persevered so that you can now reap the benefits of a decent life. Chances are, you have probably made your family proud of your accomplishments. So, why is it so easy to see the Hand of God in the minute details of David’s life and not in your own? Why do we continually believe God is not watching, caring, and/or faithfully ordering 'our' steps as we remain faithful to Him? 

Today's devotion is all about Thanksgiving—a sincere gratitude for ALL things in our lives, whether it has the appearance of bad or good, success or failure. Why? Because, sometimes the things that appear to be a blessing can become a burden; and, the things that appear to be a curse, can transform our spirits and become an enormous blessing in our lives. Let’s take the time to put things into perspective and thank God for His Love, Guidance, Grace, Mercy, and Forgiveness, because without it, it is impossible to fully live.  L. 

Study Reference: Isaiah 48:17, 49:1, 49:16, & Hebrew 10:35-36
From:"Thanksgiving-A Sense of Gratitude." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo credit: Husni Che Ngah

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​“Thou hast clothed me with skin and flesh, and hast fenced me with bones and sinews. Thou hast granted me life and favor, and Thy visitation hath preserved my spirit.”  
Job 10:11-12


The Book of Job truly brings mixed emotions for most of us.  There are several texts taken from Job in In The Master's Hands.  I remember the first time I read the book of Job; I could not fathom why God would allow such a devoted man to go through so much devastation. If you haven't read this book of the Bible as yet, I suggest you do. It will help you every time you go through the valley of adversity.

The story begins with Lucifer presenting himself before God, with that famous line where God asks, “Whence comest thou?”  And Lucifer responds, “From going to and fro in the earth, and from walking up and down in it.”  Then God does the unimaginable to most humans, He offers His most perfect and dedicated servant; a man named Job, from the land of Uz, as an example for Lucifer to examine.  Lucifer taunts God by suggesting that the only reason people worship Him is because He continually blesses us, all while maintaining a hedge of protection around us. So, God allowed all manner of evil to enter into Job’s life, short of his death.

Lucifer holds nothing back, unleashing every wicked disaster that could possibly enter into a man’s life. He wipes out Job’s family, income, and fortune. When that does not turn Job against God, God allows Lucifer to destroy his health, which finally turns his wife against him. Over the years, I have learned to understand the deeper meanings within the book of Job. (We will uncover some of the deeper meanings in another daily)

Consider reading the book of Job; it is an entire book devoted to encouraging Christians in understanding that nothing occurs in our lives without the permission of God. So, no matter what you are going through, know that God is still in control. No matter how deep your valley of adversity, stand up and praise His name, because if He allowed it, He certainly can fix it!   L. 

Study Reference: Job 1:1-22, 2:1-7 
Excerpt from: "Consider Job." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock

 “And when Zacharias saw Him, he was troubled, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias; for thy prayer is heard...”     Luke 1:12-13 (a)
 

How do you respond when you realize that God has answered your prayer?   –Do you drop to your knees in prayer, submission, and worship?  –Do you dismiss it as a coincidence?  –Or, do you simply not even recognize its occurrence?   

Zacharias stood in questioning disbelief as the angel told him the specifics of his soon to be answered prayer for a son. Yet, this was the response to a prayer he and his wife had been waiting on for many years. So much so, that their bodies had aged out and their patience exhausted. Yet, when the response to his prayer finally came, God’s response was unrecognizable to him. Instead of jumping for joy, he questioned the angel Gabriel about its authenticity. And, because he questioned a personal message delivered by the archangel of God, he was stricken with the inability to speak for at least nine months.
 
Like Zacharias, there are times when God has responded to our prayers that we stand in disbelief, deciding that the occurrence must be coincidental or happenstance. Because, although we prayed for a desired outcome, many times we simply do not believe or recognize that there will be a bona fide response to our plea. We become the lone man in the ocean that is waiting on God for rescue, yet, refuses to take a passing canoe. Then God sends a yacht, and still he refuses to board, supposedly still waiting on Him. Finally, God sends an ocean liner, yet the man still refuses to board. When he dies, he asks God, “Why didn't You save me?” To which God responds, “I sent you three rescue boats, you dismissed them all.”
 
God’s paradigm is unlike ours; His response is often right in front of us. However, we must open our eyes to actually see it. We get so caught up in focusing on our problems, that we forget all the blessings that we have already received. Take the time to recognize your blessings as they appear; they may not come to you in the package that you originally expected. Today, let us remember to take the time to fully appreciate and offer gratitude for all the blessings we have in our lives.  Since, no matter how massive our problems may appear, we know that we are already blessed by God.  L.
 
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse.

Study Reference: Luke 1:12-20
From: “Your Thoughts: "Thy Prayer Is Heard.”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo credit: squarespace

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

​“For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.”   Isaiah 54:10


The covenant that God has forged with humanity is not simply a contract. Any corporate lawyer will tell you all contracts can be broken; there is always a clause that has the plausibility of severance. A covenant, on the other hand, cannot be broken; there are no loop holes. It simply is what it says it is; and, each party must adhere to the binding agreement. 

In our minds, a mountain stands resolute, absolutely stoic and unchallenged by any entity or element. So, when we consider a mountain, the very last thing that we would ever think about is that a mountain can move, disappear, or depart. So just imagine, the Bible says that, the beauty, strength and majesty of a mountain shall depart. –Be completely removed from the face of the earth, but God’s Love, Peace, Mercy, Forgiveness, and Favor will never leave YOU.

If for some reason you are going through something so dreadful that you believe you do not have anything to be truly thankful for, put your feelings aside and meditate on today’s verse. It will help you to find God’s Love in the midst of your issue. And, for those of you who truly understand God’s Love in your life, even in the midst of your most arduous circumstances, May God’s Light continue to shine through you and for you. May the abundance of His Love find you and every member of your extended family. 

Whether you have been reading In The Master’s Hands for one day or since the beginning, it is with sincere gratitude that I thank YOU for taking the time to read these words and for being a part of this journey. 

Thank you once again, Happy Mother's Day to those who are celebrating this around the world, and Much Love. -L.

Study Reference: Isaiah 54:10-11
From: "Your Thoughts: Covenant" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: pixabay

​"Cast your burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain you...”     Psalm 55:22 

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Although most of us prefer not to admit it, there is a purpose for the pain we go through.

Consider the pain a caterpillar must experience during its transition in becoming a beautiful butterfly.  As a caterpillar, it crawls the earth searching for food, using its many legs to climb the height of trees.  In order to go through its transformation, it must endure a deep incubation period wrapped in a tight cocoon, unable to move to the right or left, up or down.  It is almost a direct metaphor for the way most of us feel when we are going through personal strife. —Stuck, confined, nowhere to turn.  In order to experience flight, and life as a butterfly, it must wait for the cocoon to harden; and then, it must physically fight its way out. This process is not immediate—it takes time.  More importantly, it cannot be rushed. If the butterfly cannot meet the struggle to make it out of the cocoon, it dies, and the cocoon becomes a coffin.

Although we believe our strife is completely unwarranted, and we commonly find ourselves asking God to remove our pain, problem, or adversity, the process of strife is necessary to aid us in becoming closer to God. Why?  Because most of the time when things are going wonderfully, we forget about our relationship with God.  When things are stressful and hardships are present, we remember to find solace in communicating with God.  Similar to the caterpillar during its restriction in the cocoon, God forces us to concentrate not on the exterior elements of our life, but the inner transformation necessary to experience a transition.  This type of transition takes us from a superficial relationship with God, to a deeper level of understanding what it truly means to receive sustenance from Him.

Jesus, while in deep communal prayer with God in the Garden of Gethsemane, asked God three times to “remove this cup” from Him. Yet, He also said, “Not as I will, but as Thou will.” (Mark 14:36)   This statement is the key invocation added to our prayers that will help us as we pray for ourselves while going through our own adversity. 

Chances are, like Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, the pain during your level of adversity will not go away. However, God will give you the strength to actually move through it.   And, like the butterfly struggling through the process of emerging from its cocoon, you will emerge transformed and much stronger from the process, with the ability to clearly see the world from a completely different perspective and a much higher vantage point.   L.

Study Reference: Psalm 55, Mark 14:32-42
From: "PAIN: Processing The Painful." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: shutterstock

   “LORD, I cry unto Thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto Thee. Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips”   Psalm 141:1-3
 
 
Several months ago, I sent out a Daily where I wrote precisely how God hears our prayers, as found in the book of Revelation. Yet, there are still many readers who believe that they must recite a particular prayer when praying to God, instead of simply speaking to Him as Abba, Father, as Jesus did. While we are accustomed to uttering words when we pray; some Believers may believe that God hears or responds only to our words; however, words are irrelevant when speaking to God.  If this were not so, how would someone who cannot speak pray? Obviously, it does not matter if we cannot speak, mute Believers can still be easily heard by God. Our spoken words, although difficult sometimes, are primarily for us. The verse below is a reminder of exactly what the Bible says about how God receives our prayer.

Revelation 8:3-4 says,
“…And another angel came and stood at the altar, having a golden censer; and there was given unto him much incense, that he should offer it with the prayers of all saints upon the golden altar which was before The Throne. And the smoke of the incense, which came with the prayers of the saints, ascended up before God out of the angel’s hand…”

The Bible says that an angel takes the prayers of God's people and burns it as incense that is waved before His Throne. The more emotionally difficult the prayer is for you, the more pungent the sweet aroma is to God. The truth is our prayer does not need words; because sometimes, the use of language just gets in the way of our personal pleas to our Heavenly Father. Just imagine for a moment how your prayer is received.  Your prayer, with its weeping and groaning, has its own sweet unique voice, with its own sweet aroma, that carries your name as it is waved before The Throne.

So remember, if you are in distress, at a loss for words, or just too broken to speak; God will receive your prayer. It does not matter if you are bawling and words can't get through; it does not matter if you are mute and have never spoken one word in your entire life, God hears every utterance, every groan, every fallen teardrop, and every broken heart.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 141:1-3, Revelation 8:3-4
From: “Aroma Before The Throne.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​“...And he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan. Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host; and they came by night, and compassed the city about. And when the servant of the man of God was risen early and gone forth, behold, a host compassed the city, both with horses and chariots.  And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! How shall we do? And he answered, Fear not; for They that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray Thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw; and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha."     2 Kings 6:13-17


We sometimes fill ourselves with such disabling fear that we cannot accomplish God's Divine desire for our lives.  In today's story, the prophet Elisha prayed to have his servant’s eyes opened so he could see God’s army protecting them against the impending army of their enemy.  Imagine if you could see the angels that surround you as you go through your particular circumstance.  Our Bible says, "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have; for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my Helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me." (Hebrew 13:5-6)

Fear is the absolute killer of Faith. Sometimes you will know what your next course of action is going to be, and sometimes you will not.  Sometimes conquering your circumstances will be a simple act of faith; and sometimes, it will take a pure leap of faith on your part to move from one level of existence to another. God asks us for faith; faith that He can and will deliver exactly what we need and more.  This kind of faith moves you through whatever may be harassing you to command fear into submission, ultimately allowing you to stand boldly before your fear.
Elisha's servant could only see the impending problem plaguing them; his faith was limited to his eyesight. Yet, Elisha had been under siege before; he had already learned to internalize God’s promise to him; and so, his faith could see far into the spiritual realm beyond his fear.

I understand how a perceived reality can produce so much fear it paralyzes you--I have been there.  Like Elisha's servant in today's story, You must ultimately change your perception of the problem to overcome its power over you.  And remember, the verse above says, "...I will never leave you or forsake you.”  God does not say, “sorta-kinda,” or,"maybe on a couple of days;" or even,"every once in a while."
—GOD boldly says, " I will never..!"  L.

Study Reference: 2 Kings 6:13-17
From: "A Perceived Reality." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
*Painting: "Ministry of Angels, Promise of the Scriptures" by Kerri Guthrie