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“I will lift up mine eyes unto the Hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”     Psalm 121:1-2

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This Psalm recounts a day in the life of the prophet Elisha taken from 2 Kings.  In the story, Elisha is being hunted by an enemy Syrian king, because of specific prophesies he gave the king of Israel to defeat Syria. When the Syrian king finally finds out exactly who is telling the king of Israel his military secrets, he commands his army to seize Elisha. So, during the night, the Syrian army completely surrounds the city and the prophet’s home.  The next morning when Elisha’s servant comes out to do his morning chores, he sees the army surrounding them; fearful, he goes back inside to tell Elisha. However, when Elisha comes out to look at the impending army, he turns to his servant and says, “Have no fear, The Army that is with us is larger than the one against us.”  Yet, Elisha’s servant could not see the army of God surrounding the Syrian army. He could only “see” the problem set before him.  Once Elisha prayed for his servant’s eyes to be opened, the servant was able to see God’s angelic army of horses and chariots of fire surrounding the Syrian army. 
 
What does all this have to do with you?  –Well, just because you can’t see God’s army surrounding you, does not mean it’s not there.  Even when things seem the bleakest, do not give up!  Because, the reality is, God can change the tide of opportunity in seconds!  He can even change an impending army of enemies to your advantage.  
So, go ahead, “Lift up your eyes unto the Hills, your help comes from the Lord. Not just any lord, The LORD who made heaven and earth.”  L.
 
**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse

Study Reference: Psalm 121:1-2, 2 Kings 6
From: “Your Thoughts:  Lord, Open My Eyes.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Joel Robison
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​“Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am weak...”  
Psalm 6:2-a


In today’s culture we tend to honor strength in the mind and body, it is how we determine whether we are fit for a particular task or not. To most of us, weakness is seen as a flaw; and yet, it is in our weakness and often at our breaking point that the Holy Spirit shows up to instill His Strength. 

This last minute rescue is a confirmation of the verse found in 2 Corinthians 12:9, where Jesus says, “My Grace is sufficient for thee; for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness!”  It is where you say, "Help me Lord Jesus.  Have Mercy on me, O Lord, ...I am weak. --I cannot fight this battle one more minute, of one more day! --I have done everything I know how to do. --You, Oh Lord, are The Power and The Way. I give the reins of my problems to You.  --Not my will, but Your Will be done!  Amen."   Then, let it go!

When we have finally run out of options, our reliance on God tends to be greater, allowing Him to use His Strength to intercede, overpowering our weakness. So today, if you are feeling low, burdened, or weak, all you need to say is, "Have mercy on me, O Lord ...I am weak..."  L.

*Now, it’s your turn to write down your own thoughts in your journal regarding today’s verse.

Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10, Psalm 6:2
From: “Your Thoughts: Our Power Reserve.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

“Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His Holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits; Who forgives all thine iniquities; Who heals all thy diseases; Who redeems thy life from destruction; Who crowns thee with loving kindness and tender mercies; Who satisfies thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.”    Psalm 103:1-5
 

Most of us know the verse “...by His stripes we are healed,”  found in the book of Isaiah chapter 53.  As Christians, it is the basis why we do not claim any ailment that comes into our life.  Our premise is that, as Jesus Christ was flogged, bloodied, hammered, and nailed to the cross at Calvary, He bore the brunt of every disease known to mankind.

Yet, in reality, much of the problems we experience with ailments and illnesses within our bodies come from our own lack of forgiving ourselves.  The human mind, body, and spirit is so highly complex  and integrated, that somehow, subconsciously, when we do not forgive ourselves, it is because we believe that we deserve whatever physical issue we are experiencing; not understanding that, if you are a professed Christian, Jesus has already forgiven you! –Now, you must forgive yourself! 

You literally have to accept the fact that God has already forgiven you for whatever it is that you believe you have done.  And yet, sometimes your own lack of unforgiveness is compounded by the external. –Other people who knew you prior to your decision to clean up your life may not have forgiven you.  –Or, those who knew you prior to your Confession of Faith may not believe in your sincerity.  Well, at some point, you will have to make a decision. Do you believe what God says about you; or, what others say about you?  –The proof of the one you believe will be your life.

Ask for forgiveness from those whom you have hurt or harmed. And yes, you will have to ask!  Once you have humbled yourself and asked in sincerity, it is up to them to forgive you for what you have done.  Keep in mind that, your request for the other person’s forgiveness is mostly for you. Their forgiveness of your deed is mostly for them.  And, your request for forgiveness is healing for you; while their acceptance to forgive you, is healing for them. 
Then, every day, look into a mirror and say, “My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ has forgiven me; and today, by the Grace of God, I forgive myself.”  Do this daily until you can truly, truly believe it.  So finally, once and for all, you can let the healing begin.  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 103:1-5
From: “Your Thoughts: The Healing of Forgiveness.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: Ombrella by La Tigre Bianca
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"Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
Luke 6:38



All Christians know that giving is an essential part of being a Christian. Whether we give our time, share our talent, or donate our money, our faith propels us to understand that, as we give, we will receive showers of blessings and replenishments tenfold. Not necessarily monetarily, but in the form of the blessings that we actually need.

The act of giving, in and of itself, generates its own reward, both to the donor and the recipient. It is an act that somehow connects unknown people, one to another, in gratitude and love. The reward to donors is the understanding that God has already blessed us so abundantly, we have a virtual pool of resources we can offer others. 

...The acceptance of the gift also has its own reward. The reward to the recipients is the opening of our heart and mind in understanding that although we may "feel" depleted and alone, the fact is, we are not. It comes with an awareness that there are people unbeknownst to us who care about our wellbeing, simply because, they have been granted the gift of caring for others.

And to be certain, caring for and about others is a gift. -It allows us the opportunity to see our own posterity and frailties.  Like Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Ebenezer Scrooge; the more he held on to the things he should have shared, the more miserable he became. When he began to release the resources he was blessed with, his love, character, and quality of life expanded. The lesson he learned is exactly the same for the rest of us today.
 
When you are a Christian you develop a larger, more profound understanding of giving. We do not give to be replenished or blessed by God; we give because we are already replenished and blessed by God.
If for some reason you are not certain that giving is its own reward, try doing it today and see what happens.  L.

Study Reference: Luke 6:38
Excerpt from: "A Good Measure."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: whitesource

“For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you.”      
Matthew 10:20


At the opening ceremony of one of my favorite museums, I spotted a woman I had not seen in a while. And, even though we were not friends, we always greeted each other with a smile. 

"I can't believe you are here!” She said, smiling at me, “I have been looking for you for one year! "     
"-No, I don't think it's been that long."  I said.  
“-Yes!" she said, "It has been exactly a year! -And I was hoping that you would be here!"    I started to laugh out loud, "Hmmm.., sounds serious, I don't owe you money, do I?"   We both began to laugh.  "-No.”  She said, continuing with some level of excitement. “I just really wanted to thank you, and tell you how much you helped me!  You were so right! -And, it worked out just as you said it would!"   "Really?" I said; trying desperately to remember what we actually spoke about one year earlier, while hoping that she would give me a hint.  

I vaguely recalled telling her that the issue she was facing may be God's way of moving her in a different direction; but, for the life of me, I could not remember the details.  And, after rattling my aging brain for a while, I finally said, "What exactly was it that I said to you?"    Looking a little stunned, she said, "You really don't remember?"   "-No." I said, more amazed that she was amazed that I did not remember the specifics of our year-old conversation.
"Well,"   She said, "I have to believe that God needed for me to hear what He was trying to tell me. I was being hard-headed and would not listen. So, He used you so I could hear His voice from someone else."
Although she never filled in the details, I had to agree; because to this day, I still cannot recall the specific details of our conversation. 

Christians asking for The Power to speak to others about Jesus, is probably less common, than God asking us to speak to others about Him. Often, there is fear, —fear of rejection, ridicule, and lack of knowledge associated with speaking to others about Jesus. However, Jesus understands our fears and in most instances will prompt us to action.
There will be times when, we will be in the right place, at precisely the right time to help someone else understand why Jesus loves them. On some of those occasions it will be our words, on other occasions, it will be our actions. We do not have to remember the details; we just have to remember that we are living testimonies to the Life, Love, and Power of Jesus Christ. L.

Study Reference: Matthew 10:20
From:"The Power to Speak."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

“But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to naught things that are.”     
1 Corinthians 1:27-28


For several years, my friends and I hosted a luncheon table after church; the premise was, because of the lack of parking, most people would stay to attend the afternoon program if lunch was provided. It was an open table where members, non-members, and visitors were welcome. We had very lively biblical debates regarding some of the interpretations presented by our diners. 

One afternoon we had a lengthy discussion concerning Jesus’ miracle of turning water into wine. The discussion lasted three weeks, not counting the research, preparation, and the Internet emails between the two main debaters. It was quite interesting and both sides had some great points. However, just so you do not send me every email under the sun, my position is as the Bible states, Jesus turned the water into wine; yes wine!  If we take everything else at face value in our Bible, we have to take this also. OK, with that said, I do not believe the wine was capable of making people drunk no matter how much they drank; not because the wine was mere “grape juice,” but because Jesus created it. I cannot imagine that Jesus would allow the imbibing of His wine to cast others into drunken madness. Yet, the governor at the wedding exclaimed in John 2:10, “Thou hast kept the good wine until now!”
​So, as Shakespeare said, “Therein lies the rub!”

If we consume man-made alcohol, we are destined to be drunk. If you have a certain upbringing where alcohol is an integral part of your meal, you have a tradition of consumption that can lead your body organs into decay, not to mention a chemical dependency that rarely goes away.  For those of us who believe, since Jesus turned water into wine, imbibing should be an integral part of our own lives, why not take it a step further and do some of the other things Jesus did?  Why not spend some time healing the sick, helping the poor, or teaching the word of God to the masses.  Let us not spend so much time concentrating on the wine; let us instead, concentrate on the miracle.  L.

Study Reference: 1 Corinthians 1:25-28
From:"Water Into Wine." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: Rex

“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

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“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. 

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

"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 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...”

This is how I begin my prayer time. Repeat 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 .org

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you”   1 Peter 4:12
 

Have you been trying to figure out why so many trials keep coming your way; fiery trials with tribulations so severe you wonder whether you and Job are kinsmen? You look around and see so many people prospering who are sworn enemies of God; people who have no reference of the Gospel; and, those who have consciously decided that, not only do they not believe in God, but that God does not exist. 

You go to work, and work harder than most, but somehow your job is the one in jeopardy. Your money is short every month, and your bills are high; your family is crazy or almost there; and your love life is on the lam or on the rocks.  Meanwhile, you are purposely keeping the faith, reading your Bible, and praying until your knees are black and blue. You wonder to yourself if you are doing something wrong. 

No one ever told you that when you became a Christian life was going to be so difficult.  Had you known, maybe you would have made a different decision. Those Christians you met early on were so happy for you when you decided to allow Jesus into your life, it never occurred to you to ask questions.  So, you were baptized and happily changed your lifestyle. Were they fooling you? Now, it is just one thing after another; and, you feel like running away and not looking back. Before, it was easier to do your own thing without any remorse, without any anxieties about insulting God.  Sounds familiar?  

Imagine for a moment being one of the first Christians after the resurrection of Jesus. Not an Apostle, but a believer who converted simply because he or she believed. Imagine their persistent determination under the constant threat of the Sanhedrin and other early persecutors. Consider their bravery in the face of daily persecution, opposition, and threats. Yet, they still believed.  At least today, no matter what you are going through, you have a powerful brotherhood/ sisterhood whom you can openly go to for replenishment in the face of adversity.  

Today’s verse refers to the fiery trials; the trials we go through to build our resolve.  -Concentrated trials used to determine what kind of Christians we are going to be.  -The kind who runs at the first sign of trouble, or the one that stands up for righteousness for His name sake?   -The kind who reverts to old habits or the one that holds fast to faith, understanding that Jesus will never forsake those who love Him?  

The fiery trials will come, it is up to you whether it destroys you or empowers you; propels you to cast your Bible down, or prompts you to hold your Bible high.  It is not easy being a Christian, but Beloved, it never was.  L. 

Study Reference: 1 Peter 4:12-14
​From: "Strange Occurrences." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Martin Bernetti/ Calbuco Volcano, Puerto Montt, Chile ​

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


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

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

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

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

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

“…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

“Iron sharpens iron;
so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend.”   
Proverbs 27:17


My mother once said to me, "You love your friends more than you do your family!"  Of course, I said, "No, that's ridiculous!"

Then one day, I actually thought about what she said, and thought to myself, "Hmmm... She just may be right!”  Haven't you ever thought to yourself, "God, what were you thinking when you hooked me up with these crazy people!  -Are you sure they're connected to me by blood? They're all nuts!  Am I the only sane one in this family?” 

The truth is, our friends were hand-picked for the traits we have in common, our ethics, ideals, and how we complement each other. We love being with them. On the other hand, our family was divinely designed by God to sometimes thoroughly work our last already shredded nerve! There are times when we simply want to throw up our hands and just walk away.  -But of course, they'll know exactly where to find us!  

Did you know that when God arranged the birth order in your family, He also predetermined a group of very specific traits for you to use based on your birth order?  First-born children tend to be natural leaders within their families, and tend to be the natural go-to person when there is a family problem; their ethics and standards are usually the closest to the standards instilled by your parents. Middle children are natural mediators; they can easily toggle between two colliding groups to find common ground.  And, of course, the babies in the family are natural born entertainers, easily and dramatically pulling the entire family together around them.   

At first, when we select our friendships, we naturally gravitate towards the complement we are looking for based on what we believe we are lacking. The first connection is visual, then, it gets deeper. We've all seen them; those friends who complement each other, the tall skinny kid with the short chubby kid; the extremely dark-skinned child with the very light-skinned child; an extremely studious kid with the class clown, and the extroverted with the shy. 

As we get older and establish deeper friendships, we seek out those whose values, core beliefs, and ethics somehow complement our own. God is truly wonderful!  He took the time to set up our lives so that we would easily gravitate towards friends who complement and empower us.  Sometimes we take our friends for granted, knowing that they will be there when and if we need them, never quite remembering they might just need us!  
Today, thank God for establishing your friendships; and then, take some time to thank those who you consider friends.  L.   

Study Reference: Proverbs 27:17, 18:24
From: "The Friendship Connection." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
​photo: shutterstock

“O send out Thy Light and Thy truth; let them lead me…”     Psalm 43:3 a


In today’s world truth has become relative; Republicans say one thing, Democrats say another.  Major corporations spin their humanitarian deeds one way, small businesses another. The news agencies promote one level of information, while the Internet fosters another. Two people see the same incident; and yet, we receive two completely incongruent stories.  Many of us will determine who we believe is offering the truth about a particular subject, basing our determination of truth on how relative it is to what we believe. Yet, in all honesty, integrity has waned not only in our nation but, around the world. This is not something new; it has always been like this. In today’s culture, with an earthly population of seven billion people, it is simply more prevalent. It is a sign of the times. 

We now live in a disposable society where even truth becomes disposable based on which side of the coin you are on and how vulnerable you are to the story. Yet, we must remember that, our guidance system is not this person or that person; but, the Biblical Word of God.

We are reminded of this in Mark 10:17-18, where a seeker says to Jesus, “Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?  To which Jesus responds, “Why call Me good, there is none good but One; that is God.” 

Imagine, God walked with Adam and he did not tell the truth; He walked with Cain, same outcome plus murder. If you find a little 3 year old child and speak to them for about 10 minutes, chances are they are going to put an elaborate spin on the tale that they are telling you.  And, I dare say, even you and I placed under duress will conjure a good tale or two; it is the nature of being human.  When we listen to others, everything must be taken in context
–everything.  
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As Christians, we position ourselves from a position of loftiness. We attempt to work the biblical concepts that we study into our lives so that we can live our best life; however, we are only human.  –And, it is precisely our humanity that will always mislead us. There are so many forces working against us in reference to the truth, if you really want to know God’s Truth about any matter important to you, you must always ask for His Light and Truth to lead you. Why?  Because, Everything else is camouflage.  L.

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today’s verse.
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Study Reference: Psalm 43:3 a, Mark 10:17-18
From: “Your Thoughts: Truth” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

“And if it seems evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom you will serve; …But as for me and my house, we shall serve the Lord.”    Joshua 24:15


...One day while visiting another church, I was asked to pray for the church’s up-coming event by the prayer ministry leader. So, I asked everyone seated in the sanctuary to join our group, in prayer, for the church.  After we prayed together, we planned to conduct a prayer walk; ... however, seated in the back of the church were four young men quietly talking. They were about 14-16 years old; and, they had already planned not to participate in the prayer walk.

I spoke to them about praying for their families, friends, and loved ones.  And, I explained the importance of prayer, especially for young men living in an urban environment where madness and mayhem are the norm. I told them that they had to really start practicing the art of praying for each other, since somehow, all their male teenage friends seemed to have a bull’s-eye painted on their backs. By the time my soliloquy ended, they had decided to join the others in praying for their church. 

Young men, one half of our most valuable assets, are growing up without truly understanding the importance of prayer. Ordinarily, we pray for them. They are the key subject keeping many mothers on their knees in prayer. However, we rarely teach them how to pray for themselves or their friends.  -Although we should be certain to teach both young men and women to pray, young men are uniquely different teenagers than their female counterparts. They are much more daring; sometimes taking risks with all types of precarious behavior that places them directly in harm’s way and into the arms of the Enemy. We cannot simply pray for them; we have to teach them how to pray for themselves, and, with and for their friends.  Since ultimately, there is a very good chance that their friends are the ones they will be with when trouble ensues.  -And, keep this in mind, no child is exempt; trouble follows all our children.

Whether there are social gatherings, family issues, personal problems, friendship woes, dating flubs, or peer pressure; take the time to teach your teenagers to pray for themselves and for all their pressing issues, so they can get accustom to praying as a response to all types of problems. This way, when you need prayer they can pray for you; and, on that day when you are no longer there, they will know how to call on the name of the Lord in their time of trouble.  L.

Study Reference: Joshua 24:14-18 
Excerpt from: "As For Me And My House."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Family, istock

 









​“Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul. I sink in deep mire, where there is no standing; I am come into deep waters where the floods overflow me. I am weary of my crying; my throat is dried; mine eyes fail while I wait for my God.”     Psalm 69:1-3 

 
I met a young woman who was admitted into the hospital because she was at the end of her rope, literally.  She had tried to do the unthinkable by deciding to end her life in an attempted suicide.  When I heard the surface details of her life, she should have been proud; her accomplishments would have made anyone proud. Yet somehow she became so disconnected from God that taking her life seemed her only option.  

The day I met her, she had already received counseling, medication, and some much needed attention from more healthy souls.  When I made an attempt to pronounce her name correctly, she smiled a beautiful shy smile, and said,“Perfect!”      “What a beautiful name,” I said, “What does it mean?”     She looked at me for a moment and quietly said, “A river runs through heaven.”   I repeated the words, “…a river runs through heaven…, how beautiful!”  

My eyes began to well with tears; I knew why she was there, and although I wasn't supposed to get involved, I looked at her and said, “You are a blessed child and well loved.  When you were born, your mother looked into your eyes, saw your beautiful face and declared… a river runs through heaven.”  She beamed with the innocent smile of a young girl.  I continue to remember her beautiful smile even now as I write this, and my eyes easily well up with tears. Think of it; a river running through heaven—holy replenishment from God. Not simply well water, or rain, but clean refreshing water moving rapidly to find you and replenish your soul—a river running through heaven.   I came home with her on my mind and have decided to take the time to pray for her every day until the burden leaves me.  

Young people are more prone to suicide than most people are aware; they are especially sensitive to their surroundings, to other people, and those they love. After her suicide attempt, the counselors asked her what prompted her attempt to take her life. She told them that she missed her home and the love of her family. So remember, just because someone seems to have it together, does not mean they do.  Take the time to ask young people about their feelings.  Share God’s Word of Life with them. But more importantly, remember to open your heart and share God’s Love with them.   L.

Study Reference: Psalm 69:1-3 
From: "A River Runs Through Heaven." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: walllpaper.com

**I recently watched two short videos concerning this topic on TED.com that I would like you to watch; JD Schramm, “Break the Silence of Suicide Attempt Survivors;” and, Kevin Briggs, “The Bridge Between Suicide & Life.” You can watch both videos on our  Media page.  When I wrote this daily, I truly felt led by the Spirit to write about this topic. At the time, I did not know that every 30 seconds in the world, someone attempts suicide. So, if this person is you or someone you know, please, please, please, talk to someone—friend, family, clergy, or anyone you believe you can trust for help.  Scream…”I need HELP!”  And, if they still somehow cannot understand that you are truly spiraling downward, please call a taxi, walk into the emergency room of a major hospital and personally tell a nurse or physician the truth about how you feel.  Check yourself in for the night; they will take care of you until you are ready to leave.  You really have no idea how many people truly care about you, and how much they can help you. Know that you are stronger than depression or suicide! -YOU can get better!  

Be aware, medication is not for everyone. Although I am not a physician; I believe some medications make those that are depressed worse than they were before they began taking them.  So, be wary.  Talk to someone!  Speak up!  Share how you are feeling with someone!  You are not alone! God truly does love YOU! And He meant for YOU to LIVE!   
-L.C.

*In the U.S. call the: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or click the link below. 
This is a free, 24-hour hotline service available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. If you prefer to be online, or if you are Outside the U.S., talk with someone directly on their website. Just click this link: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org   

*Also, if you need to learn how to help someone that you believe may be in distress, check out the website for more info: www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org 

​"Who can understand his errors?  Cleanse Thou me from secret faults.”    Psalm 19:12


Even as Christians, there are errors that we have made in the past that can be seen by others when they look at the frayed edges of our lives. And, there are errors that we have made that are completely unknown to anyone. They are the secret ones; those known only to us and no one else. Sometimes, in an effort to cleanse ourselves –to purge its remnant effects from our spirit, we may tell one other person. But somehow, it is never enough.

The Bible calls these secrets errors, presumptuous sins. They are the ones we hide; the ones we are ashamed of; the ones we believe if anyone ever found out, we would be ruined, disgraced, even suicidal. So, we secretly condemn ourselves, quietly suffering in silence; even though, they are quietly tucked away in the past.

And Yet, God created a solution for the presumptuous sins of a repentant heart. The dictionary defines it as:
“The free and unmerited favor of God, as manifested in the salvation of sinners and the bestowal of blessings.” As Christians, we simply call it, Grace.  Like the other gifts of God, Grace was given to you as part of your redemption, forgiveness, and salvation when you accepted Jesus into your life.

So, maybe today will be the day that you finally stop condemning yourself for your past errors, and accept all that God has already freely given to you —by His Grace.  L.

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

Study Reference: Psalm 19:12, Psalm 32
From: "Your Thoughts: By His Grace." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Loews

​“In the beginning was The Word, and The Word was with God, and The Word was God.  The same was in the beginning with God.  All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made.  In Him was Life; and the Life was the Light of men.  And the Light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended It not.”    John 1:1-5
 
 
There’s an old adage reiterated by Franciscan monks that says, “It is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness!”
Like the passing of the legendary Olympic torch from one person to another, God’s eternal Flame must ignite the hearts of man, going from one person to another, until His Flame, burning brightly, has gone throughout the world.

The original ignition of the Flame began with ONE. Then, that ONE ignited the hearts of 12 others who sent it burning throughout the ages until it reached –YOU.  Now, every person that you speak to has an opportunity to carry that Flame forward through time, or not.  

You cannot fear how the Flame is received. For some, the Flame will be a roaring fire igniting them to action. While for others, it will be a dimly lit spark barely noticeable by anyone.  Your job is to simply make the delivery, remembering that, the igniting of this Flame is passed on to others through you, your words, and your actions.  Its ignition is in your daily decision to share your compassion, kindness, love, honor, respect, and forgiveness so that others may see The Word of God alive in you.   You make this decision every second, of every minute, of every day, in every interaction, and every conversation. This Flame has no language barrier, no cultural differences, no international borders or racial divides.  And yet, amazingly, God placed the power to light this Flame in YOU.  
But first, you must Light one candle, YOURS.  L.
 
Study Reference: John 1:1-5
From: “The Light Within.”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Xuite