From The Desk Of The Director Of Veteran's and Faith Outreach

Finding Light Through Faith: My Journey and the Lighthouse Project

Hello, I’m Michael Campbell, the Director of Veterans & Faith Outreach. I want to take a moment to share my story—not just as a veteran but as someone who has navigated the complexities of faith, healing, and community. My journey in the Marines began with the intense discipline of boot camp and continued through the School of Infantry (SOI), where I developed the skills necessary to serve. I eventually became part of the Basic Security Guard (BSG) and the Fleet Anti-terrorism Security Team (F.A.S.T.), roles that I took on with pride and dedication.

However, my military career came to an abrupt halt due to a knee injury. At that moment, I believed my service was over, yet I soon realized that this injury was merely a physical manifestation of deeper wounds I had suffered during my time in uniform. After years of feeling lost and isolated, I began to seek help, encouraged by fellow veterans to connect with mental health professionals at the VA. Unfortunately, my journey through various therapies felt like a never-ending cycle of frustration and anger, leading me to a point where I was still struggling to cope.

Eventually, I was encouraged to participate in a PTSD awareness program, a decision that would prove life-changing. There, I was finally compelled to confront the deeper issues I had long avoided. It was a shock to my system, forcing me to dive beneath the surface of my struggles and face the pain I had tried so hard to escape. Despite my efforts—taking medication, attending appointments—the anger and hurt only grew, making my journey even more challenging.

During this time, I began reconnecting with my faith, which I had distanced myself from over the years. I spoke with individuals who knew me as a child, and they reminded me of the importance of faith in my life. I had long felt unworthy of divine love due to my past mistakes, but as I delved deeper into my spiritual journey, I learned that this feeling of unworthiness was a trap. Pastor Shane, a Baptist minister, suggested I read a chapter of the Bible each night to help guide my understanding. This practice became a cornerstone of my rediscovery of faith.

Now, I use my experiences to help others who are navigating their own paths of healing. Through my story, I aim to reach those who, like me, are looking for hope and redemption. This mission aligns perfectly with the Lighthouse Project, which embodies the core values of faith, family, and country. Our goal is to reach all people, regardless of their backgrounds or beliefs. God calls us together as brothers and sisters, and faith is not about political opinions; it’s about our shared belief in Jesus Christ, who came to rescue us from a life of despair.

Jesus’ death and resurrection offer us a new covenant, a promise of hope and a path forward. Through faith in Him, we find the way, the truth, and the life that leads us to a deeper relationship with God our Father. While I still face struggles, I find peace in knowing that I am not alone. I have a Heavenly Father who is omnipresent and always by my side, guiding me through the storms of life.

At the Lighthouse Project, we strive to create a community where everyone can feel welcomed and supported in their journey toward healing and faith. Together, we can embrace the light that faith brings and work toward a future filled with hope and unity. Thank you for being a part of this important mission.

To All of God’s Children, My Brothers and Sisters,

I greet you in the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. As a fellow child of God and a humble servant in His kingdom, I feel compelled to share a message of truth and hope with you. In these times of uncertainty and confusion, it is crucial that we seek the truth through discernment, deep prayer, and the guidance of scripture. As it is written in James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”

From the very beginning, God created man and woman, establishing a Holy Union intended to reflect His divine will. In Genesis 2:18, we read, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.” This union is sacred and should be honored, yet we find ourselves in a world where the lines between truth and falsehood are increasingly blurred. 

As we navigate these dark times, many have strayed from God’s design and purpose. Women have been called to be spiritual helpers, supporting the men in their lives, yet some men are running from this divine partnership. It is vital for us to recognize that not every relationship serves God’s will. Proverbs 18:22 tells us, “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” We must seek those who align with God’s purpose for our lives.

God’s love encompasses all of His creation, and while He desires for us to thrive in His gifts, He is grieved by the ways we sometimes turn away from Him. Many have neglected to worship, praise, and thank Him for His abundant blessings. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, we are reminded to “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” It is time to repent and turn our lives over to God, for as Luke 9:24 states, “For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”

We must reject the allure of the world and embrace humility. Jesus reminded us in Matthew 6:26 that if He cares for the birds of the air, how much more does He care for us? We are precious in His sight, yet our disobedience brings separation from Him. The enemy seeks to blind us, making us believe we are blessed while leading us away from His truth. Ephesians 6:12 warns us, “For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world.”

Let us reflect on our actions and seek to understand God’s plan for our lives. Are we making disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19), or are we living for ourselves, disconnected from His Word? God calls us to spread His gospel message to all who walk the earth, regardless of their past. Romans 5:8 reminds us, “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” His blood covers all sin, offering us new life and the chance to share His love with the world.

As you reflect on your life, I urge you to consider the path you are choosing. Will it be one in Christ, or one of your own making? God has given you the gift of free will, allowing you to choose your way. I encourage you to choose the path that leads to Him, embracing His truth and the incredible calling He has placed on your life.

With love and prayers,  

Michael Campbell  

USMC Veteran  

Director of Veterans & Faith Outreach

Part 1: The Weight of Blame

Greetings everyone,

As we embark on this reflective journey together, I want to explore a topic that many of us can relate to: the tendency to blame others when life deals us a bad hand. How often do we find ourselves looking for someone to hold responsible for our struggles? It’s easy to feel justified in our anger or resentment towards those who have wronged us. However, this mindset can lead us down a destructive path.

Jesus teaches us in Matthew 7:3-5 to examine our own hearts before judging others: “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” This scripture encourages us to shift our focus inward, reflecting on our own faults rather than projecting blame onto others.

When we blame external factors, we avoid accountability. This can hinder our personal growth and prevent us from learning from our mistakes. It can strain our relationships, generating resentment and negativity. As we begin this year, let’s challenge ourselves to recognize when we are tempted to blame others and to instead take ownership of our circumstances.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of introspection. Help us to see our hearts clearly and recognize when we are quick to blame others for our struggles. Grant us the wisdom to take responsibility for our actions and the courage to grow from our experiences. May we learn to reflect Your love in our interactions with others, choosing forgiveness over resentment. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Stay blessed,
Your brother in Christ,
Michael Campbell
USMC Veteran
Director of Veterans and Faith Outreach
The Lighthouse Project

Part 2: Embracing Accountability

Greetings everyone,

Continuing our journey, we now turn our focus to the power of embracing accountability in our lives. In the first part of our series, we examined the weight of blame and how it can hinder our growth. But what happens when we take responsibility for our actions?

In Ephesians 4:32, we are called to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Accepting accountability not only fosters personal growth but also enhances our relationships. When we acknowledge our role in conflicts, we open the door to healing and reconciliation.

Taking responsibility allows us to learn valuable lessons and make better decisions in the future. It transforms our mindset from one of victimhood to empowerment. As we reflect on our experiences, let’s remember Paul’s encouragement in Romans 12:2 to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. By shifting our thoughts from blame to accountability, we can cultivate a more positive outlook on life.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of accountability. Help us to embrace our responsibilities and learn from our mistakes. Teach us to communicate openly and honestly with others, fostering healthier relationships built on trust and understanding. May we seek personal growth in our spiritual journeys and reflect Your grace in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Stay blessed,

Your brother in Christ,

Michael Campbell

USMC Veteran

Director of Veterans and Faith Outreach

The Lighthouse Project

Part 3: The Gift of Reconciliation

Greetings everyone,

In our final installment, we delve into the profound theme of reconciliation and forgiveness. Having discussed the weight of blame and the power of accountability, we now recognize that true healing comes from restoring relationships, both with others and with God.

Jesus emphasizes the importance of reconciliation in Matthew 5:23-24: “If you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there… First go and be reconciled to them.” This teaching underscores that our relationships with others are paramount to our spiritual journey. We cannot truly worship God while harboring unresolved conflicts.

Forgiveness is a powerful act that liberates both the giver and the receiver. When we choose to forgive, we reflect Christ’s love and grace in our lives. It’s important to remember that reconciliation does not always mean restoring the same relationship; sometimes it means letting go for our own peace.

As we conclude this series, let’s commit to fostering a spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation in our lives. Let’s seek out those we may have wronged or those who have wronged us, extending grace and understanding.

Let’s pray.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of reconciliation. Help us to recognize the importance of repairing our relationships with others and with You. Grant us the strength to forgive those who have hurt us, and the humility to seek forgiveness from those we have wronged. May we be instruments of Your peace and love, reflecting Your grace in every aspect of our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Stay blessed,

Your brother in Christ,

Michael Campbell

USMC Veteran

Director of Veterans and Faith Outreach

The Lighthouse Project

Sent from my iPhone

I hope this message finds you in good spirits! As we embark on this series about “Facing Fear and Anxiety,” it’s crucial to acknowledge the things we often shy away from—conversations about our fears, insecurities, and anxieties. These topics can feel daunting, yet they are part of our shared human experience. Today, we’ll delve into a specific fear that many of us grapple with: the fear of failure.

Fear of failure can paralyze us, keeping us from pursuing our dreams and potential. It whispers lies in our ears, telling us that we’re not good enough, that our efforts will be in vain, or that we’ll face judgment if we fall short. This fear can manifest in various areas of our lives—career choices, relationships, and even spiritual pursuits.

In Philippians 4:13, we are reminded, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This verse is a powerful affirmation that our worth is not tied to our successes or failures. God equips us with strength to face challenges, and He calls us to step out in faith, regardless of the outcome.

When we allow the fear of failure to dictate our actions, we miss out on the growth and learning that come from trying. Each setback can serve as a stepping stone to greater understanding and resilience. Remember, even the greats in the Bible faced failures. Moses doubted his ability to lead, and Peter denied Christ, yet both were used mightily by God. Their stories teach us that failure does not define us—it’s how we respond that matters.

As we reflect on this fear today, I invite you to think about areas in your life where fear of failure has held you back. Are there dreams you’ve abandoned? Goals you’ve hesitated to pursue? If you feel comfortable, please feel free to share your experiences with us, as we would love to share your story with others who may use your experience as a reference to help guide them in their journey.

Let’s take a moment to pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your unwavering love and support in our lives. We are grateful for the strength You provide us, reminding us that our worth is not tied to our successes or failures. As we face our fears, particularly the fear of failure, help us to trust in Your plan for our lives. May we find the courage to step out in faith and embrace the opportunities before us. We ask for Your guidance and peace as we navigate our fears. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Stay blessed,
Your brother in Christ,
Michael Campbell
USMC Veteran
Director of Veterans and Faith Outreach
The Lighthouse Project



Next Message Preview

Looking ahead, our next message will address the fear of rejection. This fear can be deeply rooted and can affect our relationships, self-esteem, and even our relationship with God. Join us as we uncover how to overcome this fear and find acceptance in Christ. You won’t want to miss it!

Greetings everyone,

I hope this message finds you in good spirits! As we continue our series on “Facing Fear and Anxiety,” today we will explore a fear that many of us encounter: the fear of the unknown. This fear can manifest in various ways—whether it’s anxiety about the future, uncertainty in our careers, or hesitation to make major life changes. The unknown can feel daunting, leaving us feeling vulnerable and unprepared.

As humans, we naturally seek control and predictability. However, life often presents us with uncertainties that challenge our sense of security. It’s in these moments that we must remind ourselves of the promises found in Scripture.

In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures us: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse serves as a powerful reminder that we are never alone in our uncertainties. God walks with us through every unknown path, offering strength and support.

Another comforting passage is found in Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” This scripture encourages us to surrender our need for control and to trust in God’s perfect plan. While we may not see the entire picture, we can have faith that God is guiding us toward His purpose.

When faced with the fear of the unknown, consider these core beliefs from the Bible:

• God Is Sovereign: Psalm 115:3 states, “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him.” Trusting in God’s sovereignty allows us to let go of our worries and embrace His will.

• Faith Over Fear: 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind. Choosing faith over fear empowers us to move forward with confidence.

• Hope in God’s Promises: Jeremiah 29:11 reinforces that God has plans for us—plans to give us hope and a future, even when the path ahead seems unclear.

As we reflect on the fear of the unknown today, I invite you to think about areas in your life where uncertainty has caused you to hesitate or feel anxious. Are there decisions you’ve been putting off because you’re unsure of the outcome? Please feel free to share your experiences with us. Your story could serve as a guiding light for others navigating similar fears.

Let’s take a moment to pray.

Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your guidance and presence in our lives. Help us to overcome the fear of the unknown by trusting in Your perfect plan. May we find peace in knowing that You are always with us, strengthening us in times of uncertainty. Grant us the courage to step into the unknown with faith, knowing that You hold our future. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Stay blessed,

Your brother in Christ,

Michael Campbell

USMC Veteran

Director of Veterans and Faith Outreach

The Lighthouse Project