​ “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: Lorenzo Quinn, sculpture

"Let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in Heaven.”
Matthew 5:16


As Christians, there are words, Bible verses, psalms, personal prayers, and benedictions we profess every time we attend church services. There are songs and hymns we sing, that literally “shout a battle cry,” announcing to all listening that we have relinquished our love and life to God Almighty.  And yet, if you didn't tell anyone that you were a Christian, would they be able to tell from your current life?  You know. —The life you live when you are away from your church.  Could they tell by the way you treat others or interact with strangers?  What about the way you conduct yourself at work?   Is God's excellence shown forth in your daily routine or is it lacking?

Today’s verse states that your Light should shine before men so that all those who interact with you may see God at work in your life.

So, if you maintain a grumbling spirit and tend to be pessimistic in every aspect of your life, yet you really believe that you are a beloved child of the Most High God; then, remember this.  Sometimes, the only reflection of God that another person may ever see —is YOU.   And, unbeknownst to you, many times, it will be your only opportunity to introduce them to God’s Love, Mercy, Grace, and Forgiveness.  This has nothing to do with “preaching” or even sharing the Gospel of Jesus.  It has to do with your life actually exhibiting what you profess.

Our life is our own personal and reasonable sacrifice to God. It exhibits everything that we believe we "know" or have learned about Him.  Once we believe that we are Children of the Most High God, it tempers how we act and what we say.  It tempers the things we do and the things we don't.  It controls the quality of what we expect from life, from ourselves, and from others. —It even reflects what we expect from God.

Yes, your life and personal Light must glorify God; it ultimately emits a Light frequency that quietly speaks volumes about your true feelings concerning His omnipotence over your life.  It unconsciously reflects your understanding of God’s Love in your life —whether you fully acknowledge it or not.

The question prompted by today’s verse is a highly personal one; it asks you to truly reflect on your demeanor and outlook as viewed through the eyes of others.  —​Are you a beacon of God’s Light in this world, or are you barely, a dimly lit spark?  L. 

Study Reference: John 17:4, Matthew 5:14-16
From: " Your Thoughts: Set Apart II” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Magiczone ​

"Thou hast granted me life and favor, and Thy visitation hath preserved my spirit.”   Job 10:12

 
Understanding balance is probably one of the most difficult things for us to do. We stand in awe of those who are athletes, dancers, and acrobats; because, their discipline allows them to be able to achieve feats that somehow seem unnatural to us.  I remember the first time I saw Michael Jordan play basketball. While he was already in the air, he stepped upwards twice as if he was actually going up a staircase to dunk the basketball. He languished in mid-air as he placed the basketball in the net while all the other players watched him from below his unseen staircase to the hoop. To viewers, he seemed to have a God-given ability far superior to his opponents. But to his teammates, he was the hardest working member, practicing more hours than any other player on his team. 

Sometimes we look at our own lives, and do not understand the balance between relying on our natural abilities and/or God’s Divine interaction.  Often, one is clearer than the other, as it should be. While at other times, we can hardly determine which one is which. The truth is, save yourself some time and effort in trying to decipher the origin and just give God the glory, because either way, the gift came from Him.  

Yes, there are times when you will receive God’s favor and emerge the victor when you have not trained for the fight. However, it is better to study for the exam and pray to ace it, than to pray to pass it and not study. If you have studied for the exam, at least God in His compassion can move the information buried deep within the recess of your brain and send it to the forefront.

There are times when God will use your natural ability and there are times when He will use His.
Ideally, we train, develop, and strengthen our natural ability, because, as we do so, it is homage to God for the gift He has given us. Yet, we rely on His strength because we know we cannot accomplish much without it. 

You alone know what is natural to you and what is not; and, it is up to you whether you give God glory for your simple knowledge, superior skill, or His favor.  So, achieving true balance is individual; it is your ideal understanding of how God responds in your life, and can be the difference whether your gifts are used for greatness or mediocrity.   L. 

Study Reference: Job 10:9-13  
From: "The Balancing Act." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo credit: istock

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

 
"…Then Jesus went with them. And when He was now not far from the house, the centurion sent friends to Him, saying unto Him, Lord, trouble not Thyself, for I am not worthy that Thou should enter under my roof; Wherefore neither thought myself worthy to come unto Thee; but say in a Word, and my servant shall be healed. For I also am a man set under authority, having under me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he goes; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he does it. When Jesus heard these things, He marveled at him, and turned him about, and said unto the people that followed Him, I say unto you, I have not found so great Faith, no, not in Israel. And they that were sent, returning to the house, found the servant whole that had been sick.”   
Luke 7:6-10


As a society we need teachers, doctors, engineers, nurses, bus drivers, clerks, salespeople, etc.,  to make our economy and even God’s economy work. Imagine the impact on our economy, if as part of our everyday work-life Godly principles were a central part of our daily work. Imagine the difference it would make in dealing with your boss, co-workers, and clients. We would actually practice the principles of Jesus Christ on a daily basis in a place where we and those around us need it the most. In addition, all aspects of our work life would be based in ethics, integrity, empathy, and respect. 

There is a fallacy among newly committed Christians concerning their commitment to church work. Sometimes, when we become newly committed Christians, we convince ourselves that we must work for the church full-time. We somehow feel we should give up the purpose we were created to work full-time in Church service or ministry; not fully understanding that,  our full-time work can become our ministry. And, if we are working within a career that is our calling, it should  be our ministry.

One of the most powerful acts of Faith in the Bible came from the Roman Centurion in today’s passage who asked Jesus to heal his servant. As Jesus approached the Centurion’s home, the Centurion replied "...but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed."  We often speak about his Faith prior to this encounter; however, just imagine how he conducted his army after  this encounter!

Yes, utilize your gifts and talents within the church; however, remember that you are an ambassador of Christ, and all  that you do must reflect your calling. L.

Study Reference: Luke 7:1-10 
From: "A Working Ministry."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Tahir Juakali ​

  "The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.”  Exodus 14:14


​
As I left work enjoying the first warm spring day of the year, I noticed some words written on the sidewalk in white chalk. I walked closer to read, what turned out to be a very profound phrase,  “Don’t allow anger to destroy your peace!"  The quote, signed by a neighborhood artist named, De la Vega, resounded in my mind and immediately uplifted my spirit.  

It appears that I have become a fan of De la Vega since reading, on previous occasions, several other sidewalk renderings penned in the temporary stain of white chalk. One of my favorites was a series of white chalk animations of a lone fish, dreaming of leaving a small fish bowl. The first image featured the fish swimming in a classic round fishbowl; the second, showed the fish jumping out of the bowl and unto the sidewalk, happily walking on newly found legs. The caption read, “Become your dream!”  

The most recent sidewalk rendering, again written with the simplicity of white chalk, simply stated, “Praying confronts God.”  Although I didn't quite agree with the statement, I easily understood the thought behind the words. There are times when praying confronts God; however, the confrontation is always tempered by our understanding that, at the appointed time, we will understand the reason behind God's process. 

I am not certain what issues prompted De la Vega to begin promoting his or her art on the sidewalks of New York City. —A place where people tread so easily without paying much attention. Maybe it was just to offer pause and pleasure to weary pedestrians, in a city where speedily walking to and from one’s destination is the norm. However, pausing to read the words, I felt inclined to silently thank him or her for the gift of gently reminding us, never to allow anger the power to steal our peace. —Peace that we so often and easily relinquish to any errant passerby who crosses our path.  

Remember, the power of bestowing and maintaining personal peace belongs only to God. When you relinquish your personal peace to someone else, they become your god. —Since, ultimately, you worship them enough to offer the sacrifice of God’s peace in your life, in return for their turmoil.  

Peace in your life is the highest level of living; it is, in essence, a complete lack of conflict mentally, physically, and spiritually.  It allows your spirit’s communal connection to God to flow effortlessly.  On more than one occasion Jesus said it very clearly to the people in His midst, “Peace be unto you.”  —So, as De La Vega so aptly put it; “Don’t allow anger to destroy your peace.”  L.   

Study Reference: Exodus 14:14  
From: "Holding Your Peace" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Grazia Loves Italy

"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

"And the Lord was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the Lord was with him, and that the Lord made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him; and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And ...the Lord Blessed the Egyptian’s house for Joseph’s sake and the Blessing of the Lord was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field.”         Genesis 39:2-5

 
Did you know that by the very nature of being one of God’s chosen that you are blessed?  Not only are you blessed, but everything under your authority is blessed.  It is not only limited to your personal household; it goes wherever you are. The blessing goes with you like an unseen aura that is spiritually visible by all.  It is in your surroundings, job, company, accounts, friends, and yes, even your boss will be blessed simply because you are there.  As you walk in the path of righteousness, under submission to Jesus Christ, your blessing encompasses all you do—your entire existence. 

It is even more important for you to know that your blessing is seen by others. You may not feel it, or even acknowledge it, but it is prevalent all around you.  If you are a physician, your patients and practice will be blessed.  If you are a teacher, your students will be blessed.  If you are an executive, your business will be blessed.  If you are a janitor, the very floors you mop and clean will be blessed simply because you are the one taking care of it.    

You may not like the idea of others around you toggling your blessing; however, it cannot be stopped, it is by nature, the fulfillment of the receipt of the blessing.   It radiates from you to those things that are important to you.  If God has chosen to bless you, then the people or things you put energy towards will also be extraordinarily blessed. 

When Potiphar, the Egyptian, bought Joseph from the Ishmaelites, he was simply purchasing a new slave for his household.  But, everything that Joseph touched became successful. Potiphar noticed that when he placed Joseph in charge of the fields, they began to flourish abundantly. And, when he promoted him to manage the transactions of his household, they too became exceedingly prosperous. By the time he placed Joseph in charge of everything, Potiphar was doing so well, he did not know the extremes of his own wealth.  Imagine, even his wife believed she was more desirable because of Joseph’s attention.  She felt desirable enough to proposition Joseph to her private chambers, in order to tempt him into an illicit affair. -He refused and ran. 

Therein lies the caveat to maintaining your blessing, temptation. Falling prey to temptation is by far a surefire way of corrupting your blessing. We forget that, no matter how hard we appear to be working, or how skilled we are at what we are doing, it is the blessing, and our respect and honor of God fulfilling the blessing that creates success.  

Unfortunately, we have a weakness—our ego.  When we begin to acknowledge our ego or ourselves as the architect of our success, it wanes.  Joseph did not fall for the temptation of Potiphar’s wife, because he understood through whom his life was being blessed.  Joseph could have accepted her advances; after all, his master did place him in charge of everything under his household. Keeping Potiphar’s wife happy could have been part of the plan; she probably would have kept the secret.  However, Joseph understood his sin would be against God, and it would corrupt his destiny and God’s blessings in his life.   

What about you?  Are you thanking God for your success; or, are you prone to believe your success comes from your own self?  Remember, God has granted your blessing as one of His chosen; however, you have not received the blessing for yourself only.  Like Joseph, whether your blessings are words, work, wealth, or wisdom —eventually, it must be shared.  L. 

Study Reference: Genesis 39:1-23
From: "Blessings Upon You." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Jared Erondu

​"Count it all joy when ye fall into diverse temptations; knowing this, that the trying of your faith produces patience.”     James 1:2-3


Patience is one of the hardest things for us as Christians; and, God works with us on a continuous basis to learn the art of patience.  The issue with patience is, our time is limited. We want, what we want, now, not later. It is indicative of our generation. We have learned how to make things faster, streamlining as many things as possible, taking out some of the extraordinary to make room for the mundane and the ordinary. We have become so accustomed to the basic that, when we see something just a little above ordinary, we are inspired. 

Take a look around; we have fast food, fast lanes, quick-dry, instant-this, and instant-that.  Gone are the days of slow-brewed, slow-broiled, homemade, and hand-done. The problem is, although we want everything as quickly as possible, God’s timing is still the same.  A day is still 24 hours; and, one year is still 365 days, give or take a leap year.  And, although calendar days were originally named by men, “the rising of the sun and the going down of the same,” still represents one day. God’s original clock works on a schedule, both for days and for human beings. This has not changed since the beginning of time.

For most of us, patience is a problem; I am no different. If I could walk faster without running, type faster without practicing, and learn more without studying, I am certain I would sign up in a minute. But the truth is, everything takes time—everything.  We are the decision makers of what we do with our time.  Even when we seemingly have no choice, we have a choice.  We have the choice to work and be miserable, or to work and be thankful.  We have the choice to wait on line with patience, while doing something that interest us, or wait in line tapping our foot and complaining about the slowness of the process.  We have the choice to spend our time with people we love, or waste it with mundane onlookers who could care less about our life. We have the choice to learn something new every day, expanding the horizon of our knowledge; or to sit back comfortably believing we know everything we need to know in this life, remaining closed-minded and archaic.  

...Learn to have patience. Patience with what you do, with whom you love, with what you learn, and more importantly, with God. God answers all prayers necessary for you to have the best of the life you have chosen for yourself. Respect those things not chosen for you and understand that somehow they are not distributed to you for a reason. Acknowledge those things placed in your life, taking the time to reflect backwards so you can learn how certain decisions made in the past have resulted in the here and now. Have patience. Patience removes fear. Be patient; for God created time, and time always wins whether you are patient or not.  -L. 

​
Study Reference: James 1:2-3
Excerpt from: "Patience:" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Peter Gridley / Getty

  " In vain you rise early and stay up late, toiling for food to eat... for He grants sleep to those He loves."     
Psalm 127:2 (NIV)


Are you sleeping well?  Did you have a good night sleep?  
Did you know that having peaceful sleep is a blessing? Peaceful sleep means that you have taken care of what you can; and, you have relinquished the daily issues and cares of this world to the only One who can dissolve your fears —God. However, for those of you who are struggling with peaceful slumber, here’s a thought:

Turn off the television. 
The television, with its loud commercials, bad news, and concurrent episodes of murder, mayhem, and the mundane, penetrate your psyche and change the natural cycle of your dreams.  Advertising executives originally developed television commercials to foster action, creating desire for their product, and the anxiety to purchase.
—None of which you will be doing in your sleep. 

Turn off the music. 
The music, even if it is your favorite song, actually does the same thing as the television commercials. However, they stimulate your senses a little differently.  Since the music is your favorite music, the songs trigger a more overt 
emotional reaction by prompting memories to the surface, not allowing your brain to rest or relax. This is why the best commercials are set to music. They correlate a product to a favorite memory increasing the anxiety to purchase. Again, no need to count sheep. —Just turn it off. 

Turn off the lights. 
Turning off the lights tells your brain you are ready to sleep. It allows your body to wind down, limiting external stimuli to your eyes and skin. It is one of the reasons we get so tired during the winter months; we do not receive enough light stimulation from the sun. Days are shorter, we are tired earlier.
So, close the drapes, and flip the switch.

Say your prayers. 
Saying your prayers at bedtime is not just for children; and, it is not, “Now I lay me down to sleep...”  Saying your prayers upon retiring signifies that you are relinquishing all your daily cares to God, acknowledging His blessings and sovereignty in your life. It is courageously accepting those things you can change, and enduring those things you cannot.  Ask God's blessing for yourself, and those you love; ask for forgiveness for whatever you believe you have done against Him, yourself, and your fellow man. Then, close your eyes to the world and leave the rest to God. The Bible says, "...He offers sleep to those He loves."  So, to you, —Sweet dreams and peaceful slumber.  L.

Study Reference: Psalms 127:2
From: "Peaceful Slumber." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: etsy

​​  "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.”   John 10:27


There are thought patterns governing our lives on a continuous basis. Although some inner thoughts are placed there by society, friends, foes, and family; the majority of them are primarily governed and manufactured by us. These thoughts can be more powerful than our spoken words, and can cause more damage to us than our most lethal enemy. The kinds of thoughts we have can literally mean the difference between success and failure; happiness and depression; righteousness and wickedness; even life or death. 

Working on a project in the psychiatric unit for an out of town hospital, I saw patients that routinely heard voices urging them to commit suicide.  Voices that were so outspoken and unrelenting, some patients would routinely sit for hours at a time speaking out loud—responding to an unseen person.  Most of us would consider them nuts. However, the thing to remember is, we all have those voices; those nagging little inner thoughts that can bombard our lives telling us how bad we are, or how incompetent we are at something. It is the classic image of the little angel and the devil’s imp sitting on your shoulder urging you to opt between good and evil. For some people, the imp has taken possession over their lives. They have allowed those negative thoughts to gain full access so often, there is no room for the thoughts of goodness released by God.  Still, there are some people reading this today that somehow think they cannot relate to the people who hear voices urging them to harm themselves or others.  Yet the truth is, we hear the same thoughts all the time: 

“You are no good!” “You’re too fat” “You’re too skinny!” “You’re so unattractive no one will love you!” “Ugly!” “Stupid!” “You never get anything right!” “You can’t do that!” “You’re an idiot!” “Who told you—you could do that!” “You’ll never amount to anything!” “You are better off dead!” “No one loves you! —No one ever will!”

They are all lies, lies, and more lies. There are tons of these negative, self-deprecating, non-affirming mantras we say to ourselves every day --words that come directly from the pits of hell that should have no life in the mind of a Christian.  Jesus gave us the WORD to live by when we find ourselves lost and struggling to maintain a positive attitude and outlook. These words have truth and power to enforce us with the knowledge that He alone speaks to us. He alone has conquered all other voices; and, if we allow His voice to take precedence in our lives, it will negate any negative power over us. He will never leave us or forsake us, and most of all, He loves us more than we could possibly ever imagine. 

We are called by His name, and hear His voice.  It is not that we cannot fall prey to the voice of the imps around us; it is that we should never allow any other voice to take precedence in our lives, even if that voice, with all its negative overtones, clearly sounds like our own.  L.

​
Study Reference: John 10:11-14, 10:27
Excerpt from: "Thinking Out Loud." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: stocksnap

 
"That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith, that ye, being rooted and grounded in Love may be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; and to know the Love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the Fullness of God.”     Ephesians 3:17-19


We have just passed the middle of the year; are you one of those people who wait until the onset of New Year’s Eve to reaffirm a radical change in your life? Like so many others, do you lose your new conviction within two or three months? Are past years littered with old resolutions that never got out of the starting gate? Or, are you one of those people whose resolutions are so weak, it never takes real commitment to make it work anyway?

Why not try something new? Instead of waiting until next New Year’s Eve to affirm a change in your life, why not start the change today? Why not start your new conviction an hour from now? It is so easy for us to dismiss a commitment that is planned for the future; instead of New Year’s Eve, start your commitment today.  Do you need to change your diet?  Begin with today’s lunch menu. Simply change your order to reflect a new healthier direction. Do you need more exercise?  Instead of taking the elevator up today, start taking the stairs. If you get tired, you can always take the elevator on one of the upper floors until you can walk the entire distance on your own.

More importantly, why not make the radical decision to place the control of your life In The Master’s Hands?  Why not open your heart to accept a deeper understanding of God’s Love in your life, embracing the decision to learn the vast breadth of knowledge that is Jesus Christ? –And, if you are wondering how gaining a deeper, more profound knowledge of Jesus would change your life; the text above states that you will be filled with the Fullness of God.

–It is a scary thought, the idea of being filled with the Fullness of God. –But, just imagine the reverse!
Consider the old motto, “Today, is the first day of the rest of your life!” Or better yet, “Embrace the present; because the reason we call it the present is, it is a gift from God.” –Obviously, the more profound truth is, “Tomorrow is promised to no one.”  –So, there is never a better day than today to get started.  L.

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Study Reference: Ephesians 3:17-19
From: "Renewal of The Mind..." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Matthieu Bourel

"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 replenishment 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 well-being, 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: Avgoustidermis
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"To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven. A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted. A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up. A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance. A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing. A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away. A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.”   Ecclesiastes 3:1-8


There is so much hustle and bustle in our lives, I am not certain how so many people get by without taking time out to be alone. It is not simply taking time out to relax that I am referring to; it is taking the time to renew and re-energize yourself so that you can hear that "still small voice" of God we are always talking about. For most of us, this means actually turning off our cell phones or mobile devices. Yes, I know, just the thought of it almost sent some of you into cardiac arrest!  But trust me, you will be fine. If they really need you, they will call back another time.

It also means turning off the television and detoxifying from the remote control. And yes, it also means actually turning off the computer! —I understand, I use my computer for everything from spreadsheets to graphic design, music, and news; but even so, there comes a time when it has to be turned off.

Recently, I listened as a talk show host asked her audience, “How many of you take your Androids/ i-Phones to the bathroom? "  Several people raised their hands. She laughingly reprimanded the audience by looking at the others who did not reply by saying, “—​And the rest are not telling the truth!”   Then she asked, how many still pick it up after 11 pm, 12 am, 1 am, etc. Several audience members raised their hands. What we don’t understand, is that these devices literally become our idols.

Turning off all your distractions will allow you to simply be, giving yourself time to think, pray, and receive the rejuvenation you need. This will ultimately allow you to become a vessel equipped for receiving incoming transmissions from God. How can you be a vessel for receiving incoming transmissions from God, when you are always plugged into all those electronic devises that preoccupy your mind?

To everything there is a time. —Today, just turn it off.  —Well, at least for an hour.  L.

Study Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 
From: " Turning It All Off. "  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo:  mon soutien etudiant 

“Turn you at My reproof; behold, I will pour out My Spirit unto you, I will make known My Words unto you.”
 Proverbs 1:23


God can use anyone or anything for His purpose. 

He used a raven to feed a prophet. 
He used a donkey to speak to a disobedient seer. 
He used Moses, a stutterer, to speak to a king.
He used Samuel, a child, to speak to a priest.
He used Samson, a disobedient fornicator, to send a message to His enemies.
He used Rahab, a prostitute, to save two soldiers. 
He used a wayward woman at a well, to evangelize to an entire city. 
And, He used Paul, a murdering zealot, to write much of The New Testament.
God can use the disobedient, the lawless, the prisoner, the drunkard, the liar, the blind, the intellect, the religious, the ignorant, the hated, the politician, the lowly, the teacher, the student, an executive, or a king; for His purpose. 
He can even use YOU.

There's really nothing that can stop you from being used by the Love of God. –Except maybe, YOU. 
–Just a little something for you to consider the next time, —​before  you decide to say, “No.”  L.

Study Reference: Proverbs 1:22-23, 3:7, 1 Corinthians 2:9-12
From: “Your Thoughts: Anyone or Anything.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: HB Mertz

 "Jesus said unto him, “Thou shall love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.  This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like unto it, Thou shall love thy neighbor as thyself.  On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets.”      Matthew 22:37-40

 
Fulfilling our Purpose is a very specific phrase that causes us more anxiety than most other phrases.  
Consider this; a tool that does not function is useless, no matter how beautiful it is. For example, a beautiful Mount Blanc pen, sleek as it may be, is useless if it cannot write. An impressive Henckel or Wusthof  knife is wonderful, unless it is dull and cannot cut. A gorgeous Patek Philippe precision timepiece, although quite expensive, is worthless in functionality if it does not tell time. The definition of a tool is, a specific device to aid an activity. What is the innate definition of a person—People—God’s Tool?  How about, specific entities to serve God and aid humanity? Ask yourself if you are serving God, and aiding humanity.  If you are not serving God or aiding humanity, —Well... 

If you want to find out what would fulfill your purpose, ask yourself this question, "What would bring me ultimate joy?"  When you reach a conclusion, ask yourself another question, “Then what?”  Keep asking the “Then What?” question until you cannot answer it anymore and you will find out your purpose. 

Many people believe money will fulfill their dreams; however, there are very wealthy people who commit suicide every year. There are others who believe having the love of a precise person will fulfill their dreams; only to find out that, they have entered a nightmare instead. And still, there are others who believe having the "bling" of cars, sprawling mansions, and luxury yachts, will fulfill the gaping hole that is a life away from God; only to find that they have become living curators of old relics.

So again, I ask the question, “What would bring you ultimate joy?”  Did you know that the “Then what?” question was asked to a host of people over the years, and what sociologists found out was that most people ultimately want internal peace and to help others.

Well..., this sounds a lot like serving God and aiding humanity to me.    L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 22:37-40  
From: "Fulfilling Your Purpose." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: isucceedbook

​“Let your Light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
 Matthew 5:16
 

I had a discussion with my Mother a few years ago concerning my idea of excellence.  "That's what's wrong," she said, “You always want people to offer their best; but, not everyone is like that!"   "—Uh?" I said, "It doesn't matter to me whether they are like that or not, that's what I expect. —Why wouldn't everyone want to offer his or her best?
—What's the point of doing it, if you don't do your best? What happens if you drop dead tomorrow? All people can say about you, is that you were mediocre! –And, that you barely lived up to your potential! —Listen, I might not receive their best, but I always expect their best!" 

As you can see, she was barely making a dent in my thought process. We understand that sometimes our best is just barely good given the circumstances.  However, if our lives reflect Jesus Christ, shouldn't everything we do reflect our best?  Let's say that you ask God for something specific; and, somehow you have a visual in your mind of what it is.  When you receive it, doesn't it always exceed your expectations? 

Speaking with her television audience, billionaire media mogul, Oprah Winfrey, recalled the day when she stood daydreaming, as a little girl, while washing dishes in her childhood home. As she washed the dishes, she began staring out the window over the sink at the lone tree in her backyard.  Looking out the window at the tree, she began to contemplate the number of trees she needed in her future backyard that would make her feel truly wealthy. With the hopes and dreams of a child, she began her count with 3 trees; but, she did not stop there. “Maybe, she said, There should be four trees..., no five trees..., no six trees! " Then, she thought to herself, "–Yes, I would truly be wealthy if I could see 7 trees from my kitchen window!"  And so, she prayed a little child's prayer to God, to place seven trees on her land that she could see from her kitchen window while washing the dishes. 

Fast-forward 40+ years.  Several years ago she bought a mansion in California. One day, as she was washing the dishes in her new kitchen, she looked out the window perched over the sink admiring the magnificent landscape that the kitchen window overlooked.  Looking at all the trees in blissful reverie, she suddenly remembered her childhood prayer to God; and, understanding the fullness of her blessing, she began to weep.  She could not count all the trees on her land! 

Be the best you can be; offer the best you can offer; and, do the very best you can when you can; because, God will always transcend your expectations.   L. 
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Study Reference: John 17:4, Matthew 5:14-16
From: "Transcending Expectations." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
Photo: snapshot

“Verily I say unto you, among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist; notwithstanding, he that is least in the kingdom of Heaven is greater than he.”      Matthew 11:11

 
There is no doubt about John the Baptist’s direct relationship to Jesus; not only was he Jesus’ cousin, he was divinely chosen by God to be the messenger foretelling Jesus’ ministry.  In today’s society, he would be considered the advertisement trailer —the pre-event marketing strategy of the main event.  When we read about his life, we know he lived sparsely, ate sparingly, and until his appearance in Israel, remained mostly in solitude in the desert and wilderness. At some point, because of the righteousness of the life he led, the people believed he was the Messiah. However, he was certain to correct them whenever he heard them.  It is interesting to note that his ministry was so well-known, that even the nobles knew who he was and feared him.  Yet, in the comment above, Jesus states that as great as John-the-Baptist was, the very “least” of us in the Kingdom of God will be “greater than he.” 

Imagine for a moment that we, with all our faults, limitations, and disbelief; with repentance, remission of sin, baptism, and profession of faith in Jesus Christ as our Savior, will be greater than John-the-Baptist!  It is almost too stunning to imagine.  Here is a man that while he was in the very womb of his mother, was already filled with the Holy Spirit praising God. (Luke 1:15)  

John-the-Baptist truly understood the purpose for his life; somehow he did not get side-tracked by the perils of life. He did not get bogged down by the minutia of life; he simply stayed on course to become a walking advertisement for baptism in Jesus Christ.  He fulfilled his purpose even unto the end of his life when things seemed the bleakest.  

Today, let the promise of God lead your faith; and let no man take from you the gift that has already been freely given in Jesus Christ.   L.

Study Reference: Luke 3:2-22 Matthew 14:3-14
From: "Remaining On Course."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell 
photo: argiris karamouza

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

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

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

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

"…Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness 
​of God.”    James 1:19


What does it take to truly make you angry? --Tick you off?  —​Send you into a rage?  Are you hot-headed, quick-tempered, and able to add a retort faster than Superman can stop a speeding bullet?  Is everyone in your midst desperately trying not to crack the eggshells you so strategically placed around you?  If so, today’s biblical verse was created just for you. 

As Christians, it should take a lot for us to truly get angry.  We should not allow most things to rile our peace or push us to anger. It should take true effort on the part of a perpetrator to push us over the top. It may not be like this for you now; it may take a conscious effort on your part, and age—yes, age.  The old adage is true, wisdom actually comes with age; because, the older you become, the more you discover that most things are simply not that deep to you anymore.

One of the things I have also noticed is, although I have become even more discerning in the friendships that I cultivate, I have also become more tolerant. I now take into consideration the triggers that may prompt another person to react negatively.  It could be my words, a conflicting viewpoint, or even a misunderstanding in how we interpret the same incident.  So now, I continuously remind myself of the text found in Ephesians 4:29:

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”  

The trouble with this text is, it is not supposed to be used by the other person on you; it is supposed to be spiritually implemented by you on them!  It is not that you give up, concede, or relinquish your position to the other person; you simply make a determination not to push yourself or the other person, so far to the edge, all involved can maintain their self-control.  Obviously, you cannot control the thoughts or actions of others; however, when you begin to think of yourself as an edifier of others, it becomes increasingly difficult to tear them down and quite easy to see their position.  Sometimes, it is relatively easy to allow them to say whatever they like, knowing it will not affect your status as a child of God.  In any case, you will find that you are able to administer a truce when you clearly see the beginnings of a war; or, simply walk away when you have determined there is no other option.  

You have the option of controlling your anger, or allowing your anger to control you.  Sometimes, it is as easy as remaining silent and refraining from a snappy retort; at other times, it will mean walking away with a solid amicable agreement to disagree. Either way, you win. You would have maintained your position, your self-control, and self-respect; but, more importantly, you allowed the other person to maintain theirs.   L.

Study Reference: James 1:19, Ephesians 4:29  
From: "Slow to Anger."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Craig/ 500-px