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"For God hath not given us a spirit of fear, but of Power, and of Love and of a Sound Mind."           2 Timothy 1:7


Today, so much of what is deemed film and television entertainment is solely based on fear and violence. We have taken cinematic fear and violence for granted for so long that, they have become an integral part of our daily experience while increasingly becoming more grotesque. These images slowly seep their poison into our minds, skewing our reality.

The concept of Halloween or Hallows Eve, is based on the promotion of fear.  Fear of all things dead, dying, treacherous and evil.  As Christians, we understand that fear is the absence or denial of God’s Love within the lives of humanity; lives filled without compassion, kindness, or love towards others. Quite frankly, an environment or life without God is completely fear-filled. It is understood that fear is also the absence of humanity’s love; the trepidation we experience when we have no love for a person, action, or activity we are about to undertake or experience. It is the precise feeling we often get when we act irrational or without thinking. It can govern our actions, unleash immorality, and create consequences that far outweigh our moral resolve. 

What if every time you felt fearful, you called on the Holy Spirit for guidance to walk through your fear? What if you could somehow recognize His Love and Light in the presence of your fear?  How do you think it would make you feel?

Fear takes on many forms; from actual enemies targeting us, to negative perceptions plaguing us. When we call on the Power of God to alleviate our fears, we create a major paradigm shift in our perception. God has already given us all that we need to conquer our fears —the power to seek Him.   In today’s text, the Bible says, He has given us power, love, and a sound mind to conquer fear.  

Today is a brand new day!  Dismiss the wicked, the violent, the fearful, and the grotesque!  Instead, ask the Holy Spirit for guidance to conquer any fears that you may be harboring, which blocks your attainment of God's Plan for your best  life.  L.

Study Reference: 2 Timothy 1:7
Excerpt from:"Hallows Eve." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Shower of Roses

“For I, the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”          Isaiah 41:13

 
Fear is the greatest killer of dreams. For several years I planned to volunteer as an adult literacy instructor, with the hopes of encouraging two men I met to learn how to read. I can only imagine what it would be like to be illiterate, not in the negative connotation, but in the true definition of the word. I am fascinated at the high level of aptitude and social achievement those who cannot read, something many of us literally take for granted, are able to achieve. 

As Christians, we take literacy for granted, after all, aren't we supposed to read our Bible?  As a literacy volunteer, prior to receiving your own class you must sit and view a class in session, listening to the intimate interactions between the tutor and his / her students. Each class is made up of 6-7 students, ranging in age from about 20-70+, with one or two people representing each age group.  In the group I visited, two of the older students were motivated to learn how to read because they simply wanted to read their Bibles and hymnals in church. 

My first inclination upon entering the class was thinking that these students carried immense fear, shame, and embarrassment; however, after interacting with them for a few hours, I realized it was just the opposite. These students were extremely courageous! They had taken the initial steps necessary to eliminate what was previously  their shame, to ultimately conquer their fear. 

Conquering our fears with faith is the ultimate achievement for all Christians; it is our secret weapon against the wiles of the enemy.  Fear can rob all, including Christians, of their hope in the future and their faith in God.  Yet, it is in our fear that God offers the greatest strength.  He promises in 2 Corinthians 12:9 that, “...His strength is made perfect in our weakness.”  It is in this promise that we are given our salvation from fear.

So, no matter what ails you, threatens you, or scares you, believe this promise; faith in God is your ultimate weapon against whatever is thrown your way.  His strength is perfected in your weakness; the weaker you are, the stronger He is!  L. 

Study Reference: Isaiah 41:10-13, 2 Corinthians 12:9
From: "Fear Not!"  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Raul Boesel

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

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

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

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

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

 “Be still and know that I AM God...”          Psalm 46:10-a


On more than one occasion I have written about solitude; because, I believe it is the best way for most people to figure out the deeper aspects of their life, in reference to most things, including where God fits in.

The desert is one of the best metaphors for inertia, –stillness. It easily conjures images of insatiable thirst, unending desire, and stillness. All things, which most of us deplore; and yet, many of us must endure in order to move forward. Consider it like sleep; without it, we experience difficulty functioning the next day, a mere 24 hours later. I was thinking about today’s verse in reference to all these things, when I received a post from a friend regarding a phenomenon taking place in the Atacama Desert in Chile, one of the driest deserts in the world. 

Years ago, I was told that, if it were to rain on the Sahara Desert in North Africa, it would be one of the most fertile places on earth; possibly, even the Garden of Eden. Yet, although it made sense intellectually; I considered it mere speculation. Then I received some rare photos of the Atacama Desert in full bloom and today’s verse took on an even greater meaning.

Like the stillness of the desert waiting on God’s response to its query, there are times when we must wait, learn, and grow before we can receive a response. And, like the desert, where its seeds lie in state germinating, waiting to gain all the nutrients necessary to strengthen its ability to bloom; often, we must do the same; wait, learn, and grow so that we too can bloom. Yet, we will need to "...Be still and know that God is God."  Then, just like the flowers of the Atacama Desert featured in the photo below, when we bloom, everyone  will take notice!  L.

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

​Study Reference: Psalm 46:10, Psalm 91:1-2
From: “Your Thoughts: Blooming, In A Dry Place."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Paulo Maldonado Larrondo

“...At that day you shall know that I am in My Father, and you in Me, and I in you.”        John 14:20


If living an obedience-based life were easy, everyone would be doing it. ...Consider this, Adam & Eve had everything they needed from God, and they couldn't do it.   ...I know it sounds bleak, but when I consider the things people do in an effort to stay in synch with pop culture, it sometimes makes me cringe. 

You might remember the young man, a protester in Tiananmen Square in Beijing, China, who refused to move from the path of an oncoming army tank. The Chinese army had been called in to eradicate student protesters from their peaceful protest in the middle of the square. In an effort to make a stand for justice, this young man would not allow the tank to move forward. He became a hero and a worldwide figure for justice. He took a stand and would not move although all the other protesters ran for cover. If the tank moved to the right—he moved to the right. If it moved to the left—he moved to the left. He was prepared for the outcome no matter what the cost. Eventually the army general ordered the tank to mow him down. I still remember the incident, and can still see the moving image in my mind. This is the cost of faith. —​This is the cost of an obedience-based life.

Eventually, you will be asked to surrender your will to anchor the Will of God in your heart. Sometimes the request will not be popular; and sometimes, you will have to stand alone. You will either run for cover and bow, or face the tank / cross as Jesus did. —Eventually someone will have to take a stand for the integrity of God, will that person be you?  L.

Study Reference: John 14:9-21
Excerpt from: "Standing Alone."  In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: mindworks 

“Blessed is the man that walks not in the counsel of the ungodly nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and, in His law doth he meditate day and night.” 
Psalm 1:1-2


When I began writing, In The Master's Hands, I really wanted each reader to become part of the process of truly developing their own personal level of spiritual maturity, regarding the Bible; however, not in relation to a specific dogma or doctrine. So, for two days each week, I selected a specific text where you could write your own thoughts regarding the preselected verse. It was done to aid you in recording and understanding, on a more personal level, how you felt each week, in relation to the Hand of God working in the daily occurrences of your life. It would also allow you to record a snippet of your spiritual journey, somewhat like a personal journal; so hopefully, during the following year when you re-read it, you would be spiritually encouraged by your very own words. 

For instance, let’s try it with today's verse, Psalm 1:1-2: 

When we read today’s verse, it reminds us to dismiss the advice given to us from ungodly sources. This means that as Christians, we do not take our life cues from Horoscopes, Voodoo, Spiritualism, Santeria, Mediums, Soothsayers, or Witchdoctors. It means that we study the Word of God so intently, that like Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:3-14, we hear God’s Voice above all else when He calls. It means that we take a stand on God’s righteousness, allowing all other voices to fall by the wayside for dismissal. It means that, God leads us, and nothing in our life is placed above His standards. And, most of all, it means that we study the Word of God so that when we are presented with those things that are ungodly, we will easily recognize them whether they are uncloaked in broad daylight, or camouflaged under the shadow of night. In addition to this, God reminds you, the reader, that you are blessed for abiding in His Word, following His standards, and devoting your personal prayer time to hearing His Voice daily.  L.

**Now, it is your turn to write your thoughts concerning today’s verse.

Study Reference: Psalm 1:1-2 
From: "Your Thoughts: Hearing." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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“For Thou will Light my candle; the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness.”   Psalm 18:28


It is astounding how one small candle can so easily permeate complete darkness, while radiantly revealing anything within the path of its rays. The Light not only sets you aglow, it highlights every item within the room. The closer any item is to the Light, the more radiant it appears. 

There is a wonderful story, from an anonymous author, that I received via email about a man who decided that he really did not want to return to church any longer. When the Pastor of his church stopped by for a visit, the man answered the door, greeted the Pastor, and invited him in. Both men sat in separate recliners, in front of a blazing fire in the man’s den, neither saying a word. Words were unnecessary; both men knew why the Pastor was there. 

As they were silently watching the fire, one of the hot coals fell out of the blazing fire onto the hearth surrounding the fireplace. Both men silently watched the single coal as it sat by itself on the ground, its blazing light getting dimmer and dimmer until it was close to black. The Pastor slowly got up from his chair, leaned down, picked up the coal, placed the coal back into the fire, and silently sat back down. Both men watched as the corners of the little coal slowly lit until it became blazing hot. After a few minutes of watching the transformation of the coal, the Pastor said, “It’s time I got going.” Both men arose and went to the door. 
“-So, I will see you on Sabbath?” The Pastor asked, turning to look at the man. His question posed more like a statement in a questioning tone than an actual question. “Oh yes, Pastor!”  The man answered jubilantly, “I will see you on Sabbath!” 

As we commune within the body of Christ, we share in the Light of God, radiating His essence within the body and unto the world. Each Believer is a tiny spark of God’s Light in this world. Yet, sparks have a way of fizzling out. So, we must maintain a concerted effort to strengthen our connection. The closer we are to the source of all Light, God, the more illuminating we will be to the world.  The question today is, “Are you sharing your Light; or, like the little coal, has your Light dimmed?”  L.

Study Reference: Psalm 18:28, Ephesians 5:13-14 
From: "Staying Lit." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: pixabay

"Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou know not.”    Jeremiah 33:3

 
The story of King Saul is such a terrific saga; it shows how he began his career as king of Israel, his faith, —or lack thereof, and how his reign ended. (1 Samuel 10:22-24, 31:1-6)  Although he really did not believe he was supposed to be the first king of Israel, once he actually became king, his arrogance would lead him to believe in his own strength. He was no different than the rest of us; he needed a paradigm shift to understand the leap of faith God desired for his life.

A paradigm shift is anything that allows you to move from one level of thinking to another. For some, it is the transition from college student to professional. For others, it will mean the transition from single-and-free to mated-with-children. However, most of us will experience a paradigm shift upon the passing of one or both of our parents when we finally understand the meaning of the circle-of-life. In that time and on that day, we truly become adults with an understanding that previously, we were the next generation to fulfill the gap, and now we are the generation in the gap.

Paradigm shifts are interesting events; they enable us to be in a particular circumstance while preparing ourselves to fulfill yet another role. In some cases, it becomes a type of projection into the future. In many instances becoming a Christian is akin to having a paradigm shift—your reality changes. 

If you grew up in a Christian household, the shift is actually quite different than if you found God on your own.  (Don’t bother to write, I am a fourth generation Christian)  I say the paradigm shift is different because, “In-born” Christians can be a little arrogant in their belief; like Pharisees, sticklers for the law, believing that God only works for us based on the things we do. “New-born” Christians can see God more liberally than “In-born” Christians, because they can easily recall the depths from which God has saved them. They will be the ones who continuously remind us of the gamut of God’s Grace and Love in the lives of humanity. 

It was the same when Jesus walked with the people; He caused a true paradigm shift among both the people and the Pharisees.  Each group had to change the way they looked at the extent of God’s Love.  For the Pharisees it was a new understanding that God Loved people more than “The Law.”  For the people, it was in understanding that God Loved them enough to forgive them for the sins they enacted against Him. So, whether you are an Inborn Christian or New-born Christian, you should rejoice in understanding that God will do all He can to keep you, constantly shifting His paradigm to keep you  in Grace!  L.  

Study Reference: Jeremiah 33:3   
From: "A Paradigm Shift." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: Getty/ Faroe Island, Lake in a Mountain.

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


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

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

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

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

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

​“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you; that ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for He makes His sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.  For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? Do not even the publicans do the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? Do not even the publicans do so? Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.”     Matthew 5:44-48

 
Sometimes loving others is really difficult. You can share your love, your friendship, your time, your honesty, etc; and, it is repaid without regard to your love or life.  Whether you love the person romantically, platonically, or in kinship; you must honor and respect each person you call “friend, family, or love." It adds to your character and will eventually enhance your heart's capability.  If it is a family member, then be prepared to extend a quadruple dose of love.  Family can be the hardest to love; because, they know where all the tender spots are in your armor. 

Sometimes, there will be times when it really hurts to love someone; because, simply put, the other person just doesn't get it. They simply cannot understand why you have chosen to elevate them to a place of love and honor. However, we have to keep trying to extend our love until we get the hang of it. —Until it becomes so easy to love that, nothing anyone does can change it. 

And remember, although the act of love is supposed to be reciprocal, the art of loving someone is not necessarily done for them, it is done for you! —So, do not wait on reciprocity.  There will be times in your life when you will open your heart and receive nothing memorable in return. Yet, keep in mind that, it is your heart that you are empowering to exhibit the most powerful privilege in the universe —Love.  When you make the decision to love others, (and, it really is a decision), you literally link yourself to God’s Eternal Power, Jesus Christ.  Your love, whether it is acknowledged by others or not, when offered in Spirit and in Truth, truly does change everything!

Today, ask God to bless you in extending the privilege to Love as many people as possible, for as long as possible. It teaches you to extend your heart’s capacity to love; and, more importantly, it teaches you how to love others the way God loves you.  L. 

Study Reference: Matthew 5:44-48 
From: "Loving Others." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell ​
​photo credit: silhouettes

​“Then said Jesus to them again, “Peace be unto you; as My Father hath sent Me, even so send I you.”   John 20:21


In Luke 24:33-36, the Bible says, “And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven gathered together, and them that were with them, saying, The Lord is risen indeed and hath appeared to Simon. And they told what things were done in the way, and how He was known of them in breaking of bread. And as they thus spake, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them,"Peace be unto you.”

Jesus said to His disciples after rising on the third day, "Peace be unto you."  I don't believe I ever truly understood the concept of "Peace be unto you," until I reread this story offered in both books of Luke and John.  When we read this story, we find the disciples talking about Jesus and the things He told them during His time with them, pretty much the same way friends sit around today, speaking about someone they loved, after the person has passed away.
As they were speaking, Jesus stood in the midst of them listening. When He made His presence known, He said, "Peace be unto you."   Customarily, people in this region of the world still greet each other today with this statement; however, He could have said a lot of things, why that statement? 

Think about peace for a moment. Not world peace, although that would be great, considering there are about 50+ wars occurring at any given time on our planet; but, inner peace—peace of mind. The feeling you get when your mind is completely at ease.  For some of us, our mind is always in turmoil, no peace.  For others, peace means being in the midst of another person, relying on their peace to get us through.  However, the peace  I am referring to is an individual peace.  The kind you find when you close your eyes, and literally stop thinking about all the cares, troubles, and chaos of this world, allowing yourself the time to actually breathe in the Love of God. 

So today, in the midst of your chaotic life, take some time, even if it's only a few moments, to practice the art of peace.  The kind of peace where you relinquish every single, solitary, mind-wrenching care to God.  And, as Jesus said, “Peace be unto you.”  L.

Study Reference: John 20:19-26 
From:"The Blessing of Peace." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
​photo: istock

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​“Have mercy upon me, O Lord, for I am weak...”  
Psalm 6:2-a


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

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

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

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

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

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“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 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 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 lives. 

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 credit: Yasu & Junko

​"Trust in the Lord with all your heart; and lean not unto your own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.”      Proverbs 3:5-6


Although the Bible tells us to trust in the Lord with all our hearts, it is not easy for us to forego our own intellect to fully trust in God.  After all, it was God who gave us the highest intellect of any life-form known on earth.  So, it is easy for us to use our intellect to mastermind solutions to our problems without reference, reverence, or submission to God.  It is only after we have exhausted every potential solution to our problems that we vaguely even consider God, instead of referring to Him first. 

The thing to remember is, in going to God first we gain the best solution to propel our lives a quantum leap forward, bypassing all those weary obstacles that stand against us daily. –So next time, instead of waiting until all else fails, why not start with Him first? 

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

Study Reference: Proverbs 3:5-6
From: "First Thing First!" In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: L.A.C.

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​“And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.”   
​Exodus 17:11-12


There are times in your life when you will have to accept the help of others to accomplish a task God has asked of you. The story of Moses on the mountain raising his staff against the Amalekites to win the battle helps us to understand the acceptance of help from others when we need it.

As part of Moses’ covenant with God, he was to use his staff as a means of accomplishing various tasks for God. We have all seen the scene in the movie, The Ten Commandments, where his staff is used to devour the snakes of Pharaoh. Moses’ staff would prove God over and over again. Yet, in the first battle against the Amalekites, as Moses stands on the mountain with his staff raised high, his hands begin to tire; and, like any of us, he eventually has to drop his arms to his side out of fatigue. The problem is, every time he does so, the Amalekites begin winning the battle. Noticing the problem, Aaron and Hur, who were on the mountain with him, sit him down on a rock, and with each man on either side of him,THEY hold up his hands for him and Joshua's army goes on to defeat the Amalekites. It is a great example of kinship, friendship, honor, respect, love and teamwork, used to win a battle.

Sometimes there are things we must do alone that God will ask of us for our own growth as individuals.  And, there are times when God will need for us to work with others because, working alone is simply not enough to accomplish the task. The Bible says, Moses’ “hands were steady until the going down of the sun.” 

Remember, true friendships are sacred; true friends will find a way to help, even if they have to use their hands to hold up your hands as part of the process.  L.

Study Reference: Exodus 17:11-15 
From: "Accepting Help." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions For Everyday Living.  
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: bigstock

 























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

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

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

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

Study Reference: Psalm 141:1-3, Revelation 8:3-4
From: “Aroma Before The Throne.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: istock
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“Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.”
Psalm 39:4


There was a friend of my family who was diagnosed with the “C” word; her doctors gave her only 6 months to 1 year to live. She prayed, asking God for the opportunity to see her young children finish High School.  Twenty-three years later, she not only lived long enough to see both of her children graduate, she lived to take two of her grandchildren to school. 

But, there’s more. Twenty-three years later, the young physician who gave her the final valuation on her life, told her that she had only two weeks to live, at best; not knowing that she herself would not live to see those two weeks because of a freak accident.  Our friend had not only outlived her diagnoses, she also outlived several of her physicians.  

Today’s verse reminds us that we are all terminal no matter how long we live. We measure our days because it keeps us on track to complete the things we need to complete in the time allotted to us.  But remember; only God determines our end. In Isaiah 38:4-5, Hezekiah asked God for more time, and God gave him 15 more years. He gave our friend 23 more years.  

So, to the person who really needed this reminder today, remember to pray and ask God for what you need; because, all things are possible with God, even more time!   L.  

**Now it is your turn to write your thoughts regarding today's verse in your journal.
​
Study Reference: Psalm 39:4, Isaiah 38:4-5
From: "Your Thoughts: The Measure of Our Days." In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living. 
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: shutterstock



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​“For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me.  And He said unto me, ‘My Grace is sufficient for thee; for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness.’  Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the Power of Christ may rest upon me.”    2 Corinthians 12:8-9
 
 
I was speaking with a homeless man who had not seen his family for a long time. The circumstances of his life had forced him to live on the streets. Yet, for some reason I felt that God wanted me to speak with him, and to minister to him.  Interestingly enough, he spoke to me first and he knew a few things about the Word of God, so our discussion was productive.  Somehow, I was able to tell him some very specific things about his circumstances that took him off-guard. I know that the Holy Spirit was involved because the things that I told him also surprised me.

Then, about midway through our conversation, he said to me, “So, you know a lot about me. —And, I’m not going to lie to you. —You are right about my problems.” Then turning to me, he said, “—So, what about you? What’s your problem? —And, don’t tell me there’s none, Every-one has a problem!”  As he stood there waiting for an answer, he held his gaze. His eyes solidly fixed on me, waiting to see if I would tell him something truthful; and, quietly checking my eyes to see whether I would keep my integrity after talking to him so intently about God. I stood there looking at him, trying to decide if I was going to tell him anything truthful about my own lessons. –All those intimately personal inner lessons that I have learned, which I am now supposed to teach others. 

“Come on,” He said again, “Everybody has got some thing!   Not responding, I simply looked at him, holding my gaze for a few minutes, quietly hoping that he would give up.  Finally I said, laughing a little, “—You don’t really want to hear my issue.”   But, undeterred and still waiting for me to answer, he said,“—Well, You may not want to tell me; but, I really want to hear it. —So come-on, —everybody has got something!”  Meanwhile, looking at the concrete sidewalk in front of me, I hung my head and I quietly said, “Well, my issue is forgiveness. It is the thing that God has worked with me the most. —It was my lesson and is my weakness!”  He looked at me stunned, and said, “—What!  Oh man! 
–That’s worse than mine!  —That’s worse than everything!  At least I don’t hold any grudges against anyone. “Uh-uh,” he said, shaking his head. “—That’s worse than everything!”  I sat down on the park bench in front of us, looking away.  “It’s true,” I said quietly, “You’re right. It’s worse than everything else. —God hates it.”
 
The truth is that, that homeless man was right!  We all have an issue.  Even the Apostle Paul, who wrote much of the New Testament, had an issue so painful to him, that he called it a “thorn.” A problem that the Bible says, he asked God to remove “three times.”  And yet, God decided not to remove the problem. That’s where we get the verse “...And He said unto me, My Grace is sufficient for thee: for My Strength is made Perfect in weakness...”   2 Corinthians 12:9
 
We are all struggling with some “thing.”  Something that God allows us to work out only by coming to Him. Yet, even then, He may keep it in your life; since, it may have been the only reason that you came to Him in the first place. So remember, every person needs your prayers. –Especially, those whom God has charged with the responsibility of caring for or guiding others.  It keeps them grounded and cared for; and, it keeps them human. --But, most of all, it keeps them connected to God.  L.
 
Study Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:7-12, Micah 7:18-19
From: “Your Thoughts: Thorns.” In The Master's Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living.
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: zoom comics

​“O Lord, my God, I cried unto Thee and Thou hast healed me.”  Psalm 30:2 


If you have been reading along for any length of time you probably know how I feel about words –seeds.  Words, like seeds, can dig deeply and take root.  They are so powerful they can change the way you think, act, and feel.  There are promises in the Bible precisely for those who are ailing; verses that we should use as meditations and mantras to foster healing within our bodies.  These biblical verses, coupled with forgiveness for those who have hurt you, can be powerful healers. Forgiveness is key, that’s why Jesus placed it in The Lord’s Prayer. It fosters healing in our mind, body, and spirit; and, without it, it inhibits the Spirit of God from fully working at optimum capacity in your life.

There are people who are going through some serious ailments, heartache, or pain reading this.  If it is not you, then it is someone you know. So, there are verses you should be reading, meditating, and muttering as frequently as possible that will aid your healing.  Today’s verse is just one of them; however, here are a few more.

“But He was wounded for [my] transgressions; He was bruised for [my] iniquities: the chastisement of [my] peace was upon Him; and with His stripes [I am]  healed.”  Isaiah 53:5

“Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved, for Thou art my praise.” Jeremiah 17:14

“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgives all [my] iniquities; Who heals all [my] diseases; Who redeems [my] life from destruction; Who crowns [me] with Loving-kindness and tender mercies; Who satisfies [my] mouth with good things; so that [my] youth is renewed like the eagle's.”  Psalm 103:2-5
 
These are just a few Bible verses for you to use as positive biblical affirmations to declare that you stand on the promise of God to heal you.  So go ahead, cry out, plead, or simply ask; because, as a Believer, healing is a promise that was created just for you from the foundation of the world.  L.

*Now it is your turn to write your thoughts in your journal on today's topic.

Study Reference: Psalm 30:2, Isaiah 53:5, & Psalm 103:2-5
From: “Your Thoughts: Healing.” In The Master’s Hands: 365 Daily Devotions for Everyday Living
Copyright © 2014 by Lavona E. Campbell
photo: statue/Despair

​“...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