​
​“I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”   
1 Timothy 2:1, 2:8 


Recently I have been attending a church near my home.  It is literally within walking distance from my home; so on those rare occasions where I may not feel like attending services, I actually have no excuse but to roll out of bed and go. While visiting the church I was asked by the Prayer Ministry Leader to join their prayer group for prayer. I was a little surprised since it is customary for these groups to pray for specific people or issues within the church; nevertheless, I joined their group for prayer. 

Prayer is a personal issue, and intercessory prayer is even more personal. The idea of group intercessory prayer is based on Matthew 18:18-20, “Where two or three are gathered in My name, there am I in the midst of them...”  Yet, not every person can intercede on behalf of others.  In order to intercede on behalf of another person, you truly have to believe anything is possible.  And, I mean anything!  True intercession, is based on clearing all of your own personal biases, concerns, fears, judgments, and preconceived notions so you can be in full agreement with the other person’s request. If the request is not something you agree with, you cannot pray for that request.  It simply cannot garner a solution from God based on the principle of touching and agreeing. 

Herein lies the problem.  In order to intercede on behalf of another, the other person really should tell you, in confidence of course, what their issue is.  They should not speak around the issue, talk in code, or ask in secrecy.  The idea is, you should actually agree with what the other person is asking for.  If it is done in secret, how do you know that you agree with the petition being place before God?   You don’t!  If they can’t tell you, then maybe they should find someone they can confide in, or begin the process of praying alone in their prayer closet. The intercessor has a spiritual responsibility to maintain the personal confidence of the person they are praying for. There are no grey areas concerning the confidentiality of the matter. Unless you are purposely enlisting the spirit-filled prayers of additional prayer partners in a prayer group for the person in question, everything told to you should be in confidence.  Take the time to pray for others, omit your own fears and truly pray for them; because, you never know when you will need someone to pray for you.  L. 

Study Reference:  1 Timothy 2:1, 2:8, Mark 1:35
From:"Praying For Others."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: sherry zhao

​​“Hear My prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications; in Thy faithfulness answer me and in Thy righteousness. Cause me to hear Thy loving kindness in the morning; for in Thee do I trust; cause me to know the way wherein I should walk, for I lift up my soul unto Thee.”        Psalm 143:1, 8 


Think about this for a moment; why do you pray?  Are you a petitioner? Are you a repenter?  Are you a pleader?  Or, maybe a negotiator?  Or, could you be a complainer? 

Consider this; if you were listening to your own prayers, what would be the overall theme of your prayers?  Would your prayers sound like, “Oh Lord, help me get through this day! I can’t stand those people I work with!” Or, “Lord, forgive me.  I continue to do the things I shouldn’t do.”   Or, possibly more like, “Help me, oh Lord, I need …I need...
​…I need.”  

Do you find yourself praying and asking God for more things in your prayers rather than simply praising God for his overall presence and mercy in your life? Are you thanking Him for the air you breathe? —For the legs you stand on?  —The eyes you see through? 

As Christians, God is our cavalry in times of trouble—the ultimate knight in shining armor who destroys our foes and clears our path. However, sometimes we forget that the holistic power of prayer is to maintain the spiritual bond that forms the foundation of our relationship with God. It is less about asking for things, and more about praising God for His goodness, presence, and mercy in our lives.  It is the love within our spirit thanking God for the Glory of His presence in this world, in our land, and in our lives.  

It is honest gratitude, including gratitude for our problems; gratitude, with the understanding that there is an evolutionary process that occurs in discovering the solution and receiving a breakthrough.  It is the profound understanding of Jesus’ prayer in the Garden of Gethsemane, where He said, “Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me; nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.” Luke 22:42   It is our keen awareness that there may be something we may want, yet cannot receive, because it is not part of our evolutionary process, or spiritual development to receive it as yet. 

Our prayers are extremely complex. During our prayer time, God communes with us; speaking and guiding us in the divine direction of our daily lives.

Obviously, there will be instances when we earnestly petition God; times when we will plead for forgiveness, ask for direction, beg for mercy, or even complain about a particular circumstance. And, there will be times when we pray for ourselves and intercede on the behalf of others. However, let us not forget that the foundation of our overall prayers should always be to maintain a thankful heart filled wholly and simply with gratitude.   L.   

Study Reference: Psalm 143:1, 8; 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Philippians 4:6
From: "Got Prayer?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

 
​“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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

Study Reference: Ephesians 6:10, Matthew 4
From: "Strength or Weakness?" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock /Alexandrum79

​“…That ye may know the way by which ye must go; for ye have not passed this way heretofore. And Joshua said unto the people; sanctify yourselves; for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.”  
Joshua 3:4-5

 
The idea behind learning new things is to maintain a given standard, while applying new techniques to update both our skills and our thinking.  It is the difference between rubbing two sticks together to create fire and lighting a match; or, between lighting a match, and clicking a lighter.  All three techniques will create fire, yet, each one is a more efficient tool than the last.

If we are unaware of or afraid to use more efficient tools, we will not be able to function more effectively and efficiently at the same task as someone else. And, we cannot use these tools to our advantage or to advance our heavenly directive. Others will be able to incorporate it into their daily routine, creating a new standard for all within their environment.  They will know, and you will not.  Of course, there are advantages to using the old tried and true methods of our fore-parents.  And, there are times when modern amenities offer a much more advantageous outcome.  In most instances, time is the deciding factor.  —​What does all this have to do with God?  

God created us to evolve; and evolve we have.  He has given us the decision to choose the latter things over the former, or vice versa. —Coupled with the option to remain stagnant or to move forward, He provided a promise that if we remain steadfast in each step of our journey, we will be prompted toward a more excellent way. 

When we read about the Children of Israel moving from the wilderness, through the Jordan River, and into the Promise land, they were clearly bombarded with the burden of learning new things. They had to release everything they had previously learned from their parents about living life in the wilderness, and accept the new directives from God, in order to live in the new land of promise.  The previous standards of their fore-parents had become irrelevant; they now had to adhere to a new directive —and, a new standard, if they were to survive. 

When we read the New Testament, the Sanhedrin represented the former things; the animal sacrifices, isolation of the priests from the people, and worst of all, putrid thinking. With the arrival of Jesus Christ came a more advanced directive —an evolution of thought; a new and more efficient way to God—a new breed of Judaism; a new religion called, Christianity.    

No more did we have to go through a priest to talk to God.  No more did we have to offer a blood sacrifice to atone for our sins.  The veil of the tabernacle that separated us from God was destroyed.   And a new, more efficient and excellent way, was created for us to access God directly. 

Some of us prefer the old ways, there's nostalgia in it. Our parents did it that way; our grandparents and great-grandparents did it that way.  Why should we change the process?    

There are many reasons, but consider this; we change the process to access more time.  More time to be with those we love.  More time to do the things we love.  More time to learn and create. And, most of all, more time to grow closer to God.   L. 

Study Reference: Joshua 3:4-5
From: "Learning New Things."   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Joel Robison

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

​"For a good tree brings not forth corrupt fruit; neither does a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bring forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth that which is evil. For of the abundance of the heart, his mouth speaks. And, why call ye Me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”       Luke 6:43-46 


​Do you really want to change the world? —Are you tired of everyone around you and their drama?  Are all your 
co-workers, friends, and church members getting on your last nerve? Is it all just too much? Problems here, problems there, problems everywhere! The kids are bad, the people are rude, and it appears that life is harder than it needs to be. You watch the evening news and it seems that everyone in the world is losing their minds; and, there’s nowhere to run, and nowhere to hide. What can you do?  Where can you start?  

Well, if you are really interested in impacting the world and making a definite change in your life, here’s a suggestion. It has been said, if you really want to change the world, start with one person at a time.  And, to make the greatest impact, the first person you must place on your list is the one staring back at you in the mirror.  

Does everyone seem rude to you? Then you should be kinder. When you are kinder, others in your midst become kinder. Do others seem increasingly selfish? Then, begin sharing more of yourself and what you have. It may not seem like a lot, but, if you seek a need and fill it, you will impact change. Are you surrounded by hate and loveless relationships? Find ways of expressing your love for others and for humanity-at-large. You may not change the entire world—at first; but, you will certainly change the environment around you—the part of the world you live in. 
If it is true that we are separated from all people in the world by six degrees of separation, then imagine how a change in your life will impact the first six people you interact with after you have adjusted your attitude about life.  Imagine the next six. And, so on …and, so on ….and, so on… 

When we change ourselves first, everyone around us changes. It is a simple premise with an enormous impact. Whether it is your attitude, perspective, or demeanor, when you change yourself—everything in the world changes!  L. 

Study Reference: Luke 6:43-46 
From:"Changing The World." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo:  Lukasz Janyst/ shutterstock

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


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

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

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

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

​“The young man said unto Him, “All these things have I kept from my youth up; what lack I yet?” Jesus said unto him, “If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shall have treasure in heaven; and come and follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful; for he had great possessions.”    Matthew 19:20-22


The popular lottery game, Mega-millions, is at an all-time high! I know what you are thinking, “Choke me, oh Lord with wealth!"  All jokes aside, it is with some degree of gratitude that most people accept wealth. The problem is not wealth; it is the love of wealth /money and the things it can buy. Many of these things have become our modern-day idols; yet, they are not the only things. There is the obsession with beauty, youth, fame, etc., which can also become idols. Like everything else in our lives, anything that competes with our Love for God can become an idol. If you recall, God tested Abraham’s Love for Him by asking him to sacrifice his only son. 

Jesus gave us the recipe for understanding whether our specific idol is more important to us than our Love for God. As he told the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-24, ask yourself if you would eliminate your “idol”  in order to fully follow Him.

After working with more than a few millionaires, I have found that many of them, except the “nouveau-riche,” prefer that others not know of their wealth. Their belief is that, it often skews the relationship in favor of their money; and, because of their wealth, many find themselves questioning the integrity of their interpersonal relationships. So, what if you found out the person you were dating was rich, would they become more beautiful? More lovable? More marriageable? Wealth and the other “things” we cherish can be compelling; they can easily persuade us to change our values, transforming us into someone we cannot recognize in the mirror. 

Most people believe that a winning lottery ticket's ability to transform their bank accounts from zero to $1 million will bring them happiness; however, with more wealth comes much more responsibility, so be careful what you wish for. When your time comes, and God asks you to give up your idol, will you be willing like Abraham, steadfast like Job, or, will you simply walk away from God like the rich young ruler?  L.

Study Reference: Matthew 6:19-21, 19:16-25
From:"The Lottery Ticket."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Pieter-Dirk Uys /S. African Theater

“But straightway Jesus spoke unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid..."    Matthew 14:27-31


Generational strongholds exist in the lives of all human beings. These strongholds are passed down through a combination of community influences and family issues.  It is a level of fear inspired by many things; race, gender, community, class, etc.  I recently read about an experiment where the speaker asked two volunteers from his group to walk in opposite directions. Then he asked the group he was presenting the experiment to, to try to keep their eyes on both men. Of course, it was impossible. The onlookers had to make a choice on whom to keep their focus. The same concept exists in Christianity. You cannot keep your eyes positioned on Jesus Christ (faith) and the principles thereof, and keep your eyes on fear. Both fear and faith cannot live in the same spiritual realm within you, one must take precedence over the other. One may say, "We fear God." However, our fear is not of His power, we understand His omnipotence, but of His disappointment in us. (That’s another discussion for another day)

It's true; some of the strongholds that exist in our lives may keep us from repeating the failings of our parents, i.e. alcoholism, drug abuse, sexual misconduct, poor execution of finances, etc. But many times, it is simply fear. A disabling fear that stops us from accomplishing all that God wants us to accomplish. A fear that secretly tells us that we are not worthy of fulfilling God’s desire for our lives. Why should we allow F.E.A.R. (false evidence appearing real) to dictate the Divine purpose God has created for each of us?

It goes back to the story of Peter seeing Jesus walking on water. As long as he kept his eyes focused on Jesus he was fine; however, as soon as he began focusing on his surroundings, in this case, the rolling ocean, a perfect metaphor for the inherent drama of life, he immediately began to sink. (Matthew 14:24-32)

So remember, your surroundings are irrelevant; your bloodline is irrelevant. The uncertainties of the future are irrelevant. The stronghold that may be gripping your family, your life, or your past is irrelevant. Release your fear, keep your eyes focused on Jesus Christ, and fulfill your Divine purpose. L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 14:27-31
From: "Releasing Fear." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: huffpost

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"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: AFP, Villarica volcano, Pucon, Chile ​

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​“For it is God which works in you, both to will and to do His good pleasure. Do ALL things without murmurings and disputing; that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world.”       Philippians 2:13-15 


I went to a prayer meeting on a Tuesday night where there were at least 3000 or more people present.  It was absolutely amazing; and, I felt an empowering gratitude to see so many people rapt in prayer and supplication to God.  It was a time to pray for the transition of people returning to school.  We prayed for the children going back to school, their families, parents, teachers, administrators, school bus drivers, maintenance workers, and any other person associated with a school. We prayed for their safety, surety of knowledge, and that it would be their most amazing year ever!  For most of us, back to school marks the end of summer; and, as we look towards fall, many of us will reassess our lives leaning towards one decision or another.  As I read Philippians 2:13-15 above, I thought about gratitude.   

Let us truly understand this biblical text; it pretty much says, “Stop Complaining!  I know the world has problems, but there’s work I need for you to do!  I need you to shine as a light unto the world!”  The truth is, this is not the best text to read when you are reassessing your life.  The very act of reassessment is based in complaints. These complaints propel us to change those things that are not working in our lives for new, hopefully more fruitful horizons.  However, since we are rapt for change anyway, let us declare today that no matter what happens, we will try getting through the entire day without complaining about any given thing.  You will need to confide in at least one other person so they can hold you to it.   

Let’s start with the alarm clock (at least you have the gift of opening your eyes!), your clothing (oh, so you have clothing?), your commute (you have a car that runs?), mass transit (oh, so you have money for the train or bus?), and sometimes the hardest one—co-workers! (At least you have co-workers to work with! You could be doing all the work yourself!)  In a time when so many people around the world are starving, homeless, unemployed, or in the middle of wars, cultural genocide, and natural disasters, let us practice gratitude.  The kind of gratitude we often forget due to our preoccupation with asking God for more.  If you really need more, ask, but be careful; “To whom much is given, much is required!” (Luke 12:48) 

Take some time today to write down all that you are grateful for; you will be surprised how far a little gratitude will go. You never know, maybe your gratitude will be so infectious it will last all week, maybe even a whole month! Maybe, it will affect others in your surroundings so much, it allows your former “grumbling” spirit to shine so brightly with gratitude, YOU will be as a beacon of “light unto the world.”   L. 

Study Reference: Philippians 2:13-15
From:"In Quest of Gratitude."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
photo: istock

​"Fear thou not; for I Am with thee: be not dismayed; for I Am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the Right Hand of My Righteousness.”       Isaiah 41:10


Although we are the first to encourage others, occasionally, even Christians wonder if God listens to our petitions. This is something we do not like to admit to non-Christians, and sometimes, not even to other Christians, yet it is true. We really don’t want anyone to know that God may or may not be speaking with us; or, even worse, that we may or may not be listening to God. It is not because our love is in question; it has more to do with our human frailty—our inquisitive nature. The inquisitive nature that got us into trouble in the first place; those imposing, nagging questions that were created by sin to disrupt our armor of faith.

We question our certainty that God will come through for us; we wonder whether He will come through in time, and we consume time querying what the outcome will be. Because of our human frailty, we forget that in God’s economy, the outcome is simply a by-product of the process, even though the process is the part most of us would prefer to skip.

In this era of our “faster is better” culture, it is difficult to wait for anything. Yet the slowness of the process is precisely the part that builds our fortitude—it molds and strengthens our character closer to the character of Jesus. The same goes for your individual circumstance. Your circumstance is part of the journey, and the journey is part of the process.

Wherever you are in your journey with God, embrace the process. Do not bother to try to rush through it; you will only get out of it after you have learned the necessary lesson or lessons to move on. Learn to strengthen your armor of faith so like the many characters in the Bible, you get through the process armed with the lessons that you have learned for the next leg of the journey.   —Remember, Jesus has not left you; He is simply leading the way and waiting for you. L.

Study Reference: Isaiah 41:10 
From: "Embracing The Process. (I)" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: big thumbnail

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


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

Looking back, you now know that there is a process of self-discovery that no one can tell you about; it is the knowledge that God’s Love is real in your life.  It is not praise, and it is not worship; it is simply a place in time when you know, that you know, God has been a supernatural strength in your life the entire time.
-Yes. In good times and in bad times, He has been with you! 

-Like the poem, Footsteps in the Sand,  He has been carrying you the entire time!  L.

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

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

“I have seen travail which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it.”   Ecclesiastes 3:10 


Meeting one of my neighbors in the elevator, a beautiful actress with a charming personality, we somehow began a conversation about perseverance. Although I hadn't seen her in a while, she was always gracious when we ran into each other. As we took the elevator together we began a short conversation about maintaining faith in the current economic climate. Given her profession, the motivation was being directed towards her rather than to me. And then, of course, the conversation turned to men. 

 I said, “When the economy is struggling it is much more difficult on men.  They have a harder time not linking their self-esteem to money and job security.  This makes it harder to date, and much more difficult to find the one who you may prefer to date.”  Then, she said something I truly considered profound.  

She said, “It may actually be better to date a guy who is having an issue finding work; it tells you more about their character and their ability to survive under fire.  It tells you more about what kind of person they really are, than if they have a job where they are doing fine.”  As we left the elevator to go our separate ways, the more I thought about it, the more it made sense.  Not necessarily the dating part, but definitely the character and ability to survive under fire part.  

Today’s verse says God allows travail or hardship so men can be exercised or tested while under duress. Duress causes all types of issues to arise. It offers a clear indication whether the person is strong, patient, kind, moral, and sincere; all while maintaining integrity and a passionate ability to persevere when the chips are down.  Or, it can prove that they are less experienced and can only function when everything in their life is going as planned. -This information is truly relevant.  Why?  Because the chips are going to be down eventually. At some point during our life experience, things will not go as we planned.  It is simply the nature of being alive.  A man’s reaction to adversity will tell you more about him than when life is flowing smoothly as planned. 

I even had to reconsider the dating part; because, not having the financial resources to do extravagant things enables a couple to learn more about each other and not about what money can buy. It forces intimate conversations about dreams and plans, while adding candid discussions about financial issues.  Both sexes can learn a great deal about the other by not having the funds to do those things which can deter their focus from more serious issues. Struggling financially to make ends meet can definitely tell you a great deal about your potential mate and whether you want to commit or dismiss a future with him or her.  

Duress can reveal those key personality traits we really need to discover about each other before making a permanent commitment. Traits such as, deeply rooted anger, frustration, resentment, or even violence.  It can unmask our true character, bringing it out into the open.   Just as Jesus told Peter he would deny Him three times, God has given us exercises in travail to shape the strength of our character. And, those same issues can reveal the character of a man or woman to determine whether he or she can become your life partner. Be wise in determining their true character in travail, it can mean the difference between having a lifelong lasting relationship, or having a lifelong lacking  relationship.  L.

Study Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:10  
From:"The Journey." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: nova 

​“I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD; be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD.”   Psalm 27:13-14


I really love to fly; I love airplanes, the airport, and the concept of flying.  However, one day after an extremely exhausting experience at the airport, I decided that no matter what happens, I will never "fight" for a seat if the flight is overbooked, even in an emergency.  I figured if I am supposed to be on that flight, then it is for me; if not, then it is not for me.

Then one day, as I patiently waited on a very long line at the airport to board a flight from California to New York, I overheard the flight attendant announce to her associate that, "We've come to the last seat!"  -Since I was next in line, I was undisturbed.  As I was called by the attendant, out of nowhere, a woman jumps in front of me insisting that she was really next in line and that the seat should be hers; of course, it was a total fabrication. It was apparent that wherever she was, she had also overheard the flight attendant’s comment.  Just as the New York in me was about to rear its ugly head, I remembered my promise.  I let her go on and on about how the seat was supposed to be hers. Then I looked at the woman and the flight attendant and gently said, "Be my guest;" and, returned to my former place in line.  As I waited to be served I wondered why the flight attendant seemed a little stunned. 

When I returned to the counter, she said to me smiling, “In all my years doing this job, I have never seen anyone do that! —Well,... we do have one more seat! -And, because you were so gracious to offer YOUR seat, I would like to upgrade you to First-Class!"  -Now, I was stunned!  It was the very first time that I flew First-Class.

I compare this story to waiting on the Lord. It may appear that everyone is jumping in front of you, pushing by, getting further faster, ahead in everything —love, finances, —life.  But, do not pay them any attention, be patient; if not, you just might give away YOUR  First-Class seat to someone else.  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 27:11-14
From:  "A First-Class Seat."   In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock

​“But know that the Lord hath set apart him that is godly for Himself; the Lord will hear when I call unto Him.”
Psalm 4:3


Most people believe that they “find” God on their own, not realizing that God has always been there patiently waiting for them to seek Him. Yet, for most Believers, there will be times when God will prod you to speak to someone about Jesus in order to help them understand more about His Love.

Today’s verse reminds us that God sets apart those that are godly for Himself; but, quite often, He also sets apart those that are wallowing in the midst of sin; since, unlike us, He knows their heart and their future. 

Think about it. He set aside Zacchaeus, a hated and thieving tax collector who hid in a tree, hoping that he could look at God without being seen. He set aside each of His disciples, including Judas, while they were in the midst of doing their regular daily routine. He set aside Paul, stopping him cold; a man who, in his zeal to uphold the religious traditions of the past, was on his way to murder Christians.  —He even set aside you and me.  So remember, no one is lost until their very last breath; and even then, there's Grace.  Every single person can be touched by God, even while they are in the midst of doing something that you consider ungodly. 

It doesn’t matter if someone is hiding, working, or zealous about doing something insane, they can still be touched by the Spirit of God. —Just a little something for you to remember the next time you are making a decision on “who” you should speak to about the Love of God. L.

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal. Don't forget to make it personal to you.​

Study Reference: Psalm 4:3
From: “Your Thoughts: Set Apart (I).”  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: wallpaperup

​“...And he, trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt Thou have me do? And The Lord said unto him, Arise and go into the city and it shall be told thee what thou must do.”    Acts 9:6


Somehow, as humans, we find it difficult to remain on course. There is always something to distract us from our goal; people, places, things, work, even —family.  There are times when God governs our distractions, so that we may fulfill His Will; and, there are times when He does not.  Our goal, as the distractions occur, is to use our inspired sense of discernment to determine the difference.

If God initiates our distraction, there are no deceptions, hidden agendas, or shady dealings; and somehow, miraculously, there is no lost time. —We remain right on schedule!  Almost everyone can attest to this; since, it has happened to most of us, at one time or another.  Just think about it for a few minutes; you'll remember.
You may remember a time when you thought you were lost, but found exactly what you were looking for.  Or, when you were in the wrong place, at the wrong time, and met the person who would become your closest friend, or lifelong partner. 

When our distractions are not initiated by God, they are usually created by us, due to our own disobedience, or innate fears. These distractions can be destructive; and, they can make accessing the detour routes back to God a difficult process.  However, do not be dismayed, there is always a road back to God!

To get back on track, each person will have to travel their respective routes separately to understand how to access the detours delivered by God.  The process is highly personal; and, like most detour routes, they are long, winding, unavoidable, and not to our liking.  Like Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus, found in Acts 9:3-21, the process selected by God to get us back on track can be quite a shock to our system!  However, just like Paul’s conversion, God will also send someone to help us to clearly see the new route.  L.

Study Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6, Acts 9:3-21
From: "Course Correction." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo; publicdom

"And he answering said, "Thou shalt Love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and, thy neighbor as thyself."  And He said unto him, "Thou hast answered right; this do, and thou shalt live."  But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?’""    
Luke 10:27-29 
 

Unlike the governing Jews in ancient Jerusalem, Samaritans were more secular Jews who intermarried within other groups, causing multiracial, multilingual, and multicultural traditions to be practiced and conveyed within their group. It was the belief of the governing Jews that Samaritans were inferior due to their “impure” bloodline and cross-cultural traditions. On both sides, those within each group considered avoidance to be the only discrete way of dealing with each other.  This makes the parable Jesus offered in Luke 10:25 to the lawyer who asked, “What shall I do to inherit eternal life?” so remarkable.  Lawyers, like Pharisees, were students of the law.  And, like the Pharisees, Scribes, Priests and Levites;  lawyers were considered part of elite society.  Their knowledge of both governing law and doctrinal law gave them the opportunity to commune with all members of the social elite; and similarly, a common person or peasant could not simply evoke an audience with any of them, much less a Samaritan.

Jesus responds by asking the lawyer, “What is written in the Law?  How have you interpreted it?”  The lawyer says to Him, “Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind; and, your neighbor as yourself.”   Jesus commends him by saying, “You have answered right, do this and you shall live.”   —But, like any good attorney, he has to ask God’s Holiest Witness to clarify His statement. —After all, we are talking about eternal life.  So, knowing that he does not interact with the “common folks” of society, the lawyer asks for specific clarification, asking, “--And, who is my neighbor?” 

So, just like the rest of us, he forgets that he cannot entrap God.  He forgot that questions posed to God, although entertained when asked, were created and already answered by our omnipotent, omniscient Creator.  Jesus entertains his question by offering The Parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-36), where a man, robbed, wounded, and left dying in the street is passed over by both a Priest, the pastor;  and, a Levite, the praise and worship leader. 

At first I wondered why Jesus chose a Priest and a Levite; but then, I realized that the man who lay wounded in the street was their social peer—himself a member of the social elite.  How do we know?  Well, the Bible says that the man’s clothing was stolen. Even by today’s standards, if you are the victim of a robbery, the crooks will take your money; however, if they take your clothing, it’s because you have something that they truly cannot afford.  The priest sees the man in the ditch and crosses the street.  The Levite comes over, looks into the face of the man, and then crosses the street!   A Samaritan sees the man, tends to his wounds, takes him to an inn, and pays the proprietor to take care of him, promising to pay for any further expenses the proprietor incurs, upon his return to the area. 

So, the question Jesus asks is, “Which one of the three do you think were the wounded man’s neighbors?”  We can imagine Jesus watching the lawyer as he arrives at God’s desired conclusion stating, “The one who showed compassion on him.”  Jesus, probably looking at the lawyer directly in the eyes, charges him by saying, “Go and do likewise.”  —Yet, this too is our charge! 
Interacting with others who are culturally and socially different can bring you social enlightenment and new friends, stretching your Love and compassion far beyond your own preconceived capabilities. —Not to mention, it just may be the very last component that actually moves you closer to God and gets you into heaven.  L.

​Study Reference: Luke 10:25-36   
Excerpt From:"Loving Your Neighbors." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: remax