Thursday, November 30, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 30

“Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! Therefore shall the strength of Pharaoh be your shame, and the trust in the shadow of Egypt your confusion” (Isaiah 30:1-3).

Today’s Morsel:  It seems that many in the church have now turned to taking counsel from the world rather than the Lord.  It appears many of them are confused, faithless, and without hope.  Shouldn’t we who say that we are born-again take our counsel from the Lord?  Proverbs 8:14 says, “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.”  Doesn’t God know what is best for us? Shouldn’t we be leaning upon Him for our directions, healings, and provisions?  So why are many taking it from the world?  The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin.”  We must not forget what John told us: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever” (1 John 2:15-17).  If you go to the world for counsel, that is exactly what you will get, worldly counsel that will not last and counsel that will destroy your faith, hope, and charity.  The counsel of the Lord that will stand.

Sing: You can take this whole world, but give me Jesus. You can take this whole world, but give me Jesus. You can take this whole world, but give me Jesus, no turning back, no turning back?

Thought For Today:  Don’t take your counsel from the world… It’s a killer (Parker).

Wednesday, November 29, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 29

“The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame” (Proverbs 29:15).

Today’s Morsel:  I often wonder what goes through a mother’s mind when she sees her son or daughter being led away in handcuffs by the police, standing before a judge for possible a prison or jail sentence, having to explain their child’s behavior to a teacher, pastor, or neighbor because something of theirs was broken or stolen.  In today’s world, because the instruction found in the word of God isn’t implemented by some in the home, it makes child misbehavior widespread.  As Paul told the church at Ephesus, (Ephesians 6:4) “And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord”.  In other words, place them under such discipline and instruction that they shall become acquainted with the Lord and His ways.  Educate, instruct, train and discipline your children in such a manner as the Lord approves; and in a way that brings virtue and faith in God.  If not, they will cause you extreme shame and pain.  Always remember, there is a huge difference between abuse and spankings.  Yet if you spare the rod (correction) you are asking for rebellion and trouble.  Instruct your children in the way of the Lord.  

Sing: Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.  Red and yellow black and white, they are precious in His sight.  Jesus loves the little children of the world.

Thought for today: The rod and reproof give wisdom. Spare the rod, spoil the child.

Tuesday, November 28, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 28

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Today’s Morsel:  For what purpose did God call you? What are you supposed to be doing in your church and community?  These may sound like simple questions, but most people aren’t for sure.  And therefore, it is the reason many fall away, murmur and complain, and have little or no joy in their church or community.  The apostle Paul's first question to ask when Jesus revealed Himself to him on the road to Damascus was, “Lord what will Thou have me to do” (Acts 9:6)?  Paul desired to know.  And once he was aware, he didn’t look back.  Many like to quote today’s scripture passage when they are going through things, or quote it to others when they are going through things, but do all things work together for good in your situations and circumstances?  Paul said it works together for good to them that love God … and to them who are the called according to His purpose.  To love God is more than just going to church.  To love God is a commitment to do what He says and to obey His word.  And being called according to His purpose means that God did not save you to do nothing.  He had a plan and design for you when He called you out of the world.  But you must go to Him and obtain your chosen purpose so that you are operating according to His will if you want things to work to your good.  Jesus understood His purpose.  As He told Pilate in John 18:37, “Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king.  To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice” (John 18:37).  You must understand your purpose, put it to work, and you’ll see that all things do work together for your good.

Sing:  He’s the only reason I live, and oh what a reason. He’s the only reason I live, and O’ what a reason. There’s nothing in this world worth living for, it only leaves me empty and longing for more.  He’s the only reason I live, and oh what a reason.

Thought For Today: Know your chosen purpose. (Parker).

Monday, November 27, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 27

“Moreover the sons of Obededom were, Shemaiah the firstborn, Jehozabad the second, Joah the third, and Sacar the fourth, and Nethaneel the fifth, Ammiel the sixth, Issachar the seventh, Peulthai the eighth: for God blessed him. Also unto Shemaiah his son were sons born, that ruled throughout the house of their father: for they were mighty men of valour. The sons of Shemaiah; Othni, and Rephael, and Obed, Elzabad, whose brethren were strong men, Elihu, and Semachiah. All these of the sons of Obededom: they and their sons and their brethren, able men for strength for the service, were threescore and two of Obededom” (1 Chronicles 26:4-8)

Today’s Morsel:  I believe that so goes the man so go the nation, so goes the community, so goes the church, so goes the school, so goes the home, and so goes the family.  When man is out of place, things are going to be left undone.  Man was created by God to reflect Him in the earth.  And when he doesn’t perform his role, things crumble and fall, and a poor reflection of Christ is displayed.  Scripture lists some of Obededom’s sons and grandsons that ruled throughout the house of their fathers; and identified them as strong men, mighty men of valor, and able men for strength for the service in the house of the Lord.  When men are rooted and grounded in the truth of God’s word and their character reflects that word, they are ready for service in the Lord’s house.  I believe this is why Paul informed Timothy that a minister must meet certain qualifications to serve in the ministry (1 Timothy 3:1-10).  Strength of character in a man will always set him apart for the service of the Lord, and bring Him (Jesus Christ) honor.

Sing:  He gives strength to me, as I worship Him, as my heart is filled with praise.  Jesus breaks the bands, as I raise my hands, He gives glorious victory.

Thought For Today:  Strength of character begins with the knowledge of God (Parker). 

Saturday, November 25, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 25

"Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint."  (Proverbs 25:19)

Today’s Morsel:  I have heard it said that a sprained ankle is worse than a broken foot.  But Solomon says that having confidence in a person who isn’t faithful in times of trouble is like a broken tooth and a foot out of joint.  Both are so far from being of any use, the one in helping you to eat food, and the other in walking, they are both a hindrance and cause pain and uneasiness.  They are both nagging and painful.  One of the surest ways you can determine if a person is faithful is to observe their obedience to God.  If they will not tithe, they are already unfaithful and sooner or later they will be unfaithful to you. Paul said, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2).  Therefore, to be like Jesus requires faithfulness.

Sing: To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, on earth I long to be like Him.  All through life’s journey, from earth to glory, I only ask to be like Him.

Thought For Today:  How’s your faithfulness?

Friday, November 24, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 24

“And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world? And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many” (Matthew 24:3-5).

Today’s Morsel:  So many seem to be concerned with the end-times.  Granted this is important, but I don’t see those who are concerned about it letting go of the things of this world.  Many of them continue to operate as everyone else not concerned about Christ’s coming.  I think if I was as concerned as some of those say they are, I would sell all and follow Him.  Since Jesus said that no man knows the minute or the hour in which He will return, none of us is going to be able to pinpoint when He is coming.  Therefore, I believe as my pastor taught me to.  I live as though He is coming this very moment, and plan as if He is not coming for a hundred years.  The disciples asked Jesus three questions?  
1.  When those things should take place?
2.  What should be the signs of His own coming?
3.  What should be the signs that the end of the world was near?
And Jesus told them, “Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows” (Matthew 24:4-8).  Jude said that the best way to not be deceived was, “That ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints, and to keep ourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life” (Jude 1:3;21).  Look for and be prepared for His soon coming.  It's the only way to live.  

Sing: O’ my brother are you ready for the call, to crown Your Savior King and Lord of all?  The kingdoms of the world, shall soon before Him fall, we shall see the King when He comes.

Thought For Today: Be not deceived!

Thursday, November 23, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 23

"And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful." (Colossians 3:14-15)

Today’s Morsel:  Around the world today, many will celebrate Thanksgiving by hosting dinners with family and friends, watching football, playing games, and enjoying just a good time of plain old fellowship.  There will be new friends made, perhaps new relationship established for future marriages.  There may be complaints by some wishing that they had not eaten that last turkey leg.
 The Nation of Israel was to keep three feasts to commemorate God’s divine provision for them.  The Passover, which was to commemorate their delivery from bondage; the Feast of Pentecost, to commemorate the giving of the law; and the Feast of Tabernacle, to commemorate the provision in the wilderness.  Each feast was to serve as a method of giving thanks for what God had done for them.  Paul said that we should allow the peace of God to rule in our hearts, to the which also we are called in one body; and be thankful. For the born-again believer, every day should be a day of thanksgiving.  Enjoy this special day with family and friends, giving thanks.  And then continue giving thanks always.  

Sing: Thanks, Thanks, I give you thanks, for all You have done.  I am so blessed, my soul has found rest, O’ Lord, I give You thanks.

Thought For Today: In everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.    

Happy Thanksgiving! 

Wednesday, November 22, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 22

​​“Blessed be the LORD, because he hath heard the voice of my supplications. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. The LORD is their strength, and he is the saving strength of his anointed. Save thy people, and bless thine inheritance: feed them also, and lift them up for ever” (Psalms 28:6-9)

Today’s Morsel:  This is one of those passages which frequently occurs in the Psalms, it occurs when there has been an earnest and anxious prayer offered to God and when the answer to the prayer seems to be immediate.  The mind of the anxious and troubled pleader becomes calm; the promises of God are brought directly to the soul; the peace which was sought is obtained, and he who began the psalm with deep anxiety and trouble of mind rejoices at the close of it in the evidence of the divine favor and love.  The answer to prayer so far as giving calmness and assurance to the mind is concerned, is often immediate.  The troubled spirit becomes calm; and whatever may be the result in other respects, the heart is made peaceful and confident, and it feels the assurance that all will be well (taken from Barnes Commentary).

Sing:  God is my refuge and strength, my refuge in time of trouble, trouble.  God is my refuge and strength, my refuge in time of trouble.  And He will hide me, under the rock, under the Rock, under the Rock.  And He will hide me, under the Rock, and I’ll be safe in the time of trouble.

Thought For Today:  His strength is made perfect in our weakness. 

Tuesday, November 21, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 21

The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever” (Psalms 23:1-6).

Today’s Morsel:  Are you afraid when someone is following you?  Do you ever wonder who is behind you at night when you are driving home and you look in your rear-view mirror and see lights?   There is nothing wrong with being aware of your surroundings, but we really don’t have anything to fear because God is with us.  David said that goodness and mercy shall follow you all the days of your life.  Aren’t you glad that Jesus has your back?  Whose do you have?

Sing:  I am covered, covered, covered by His blood.  I’m walking by faith, living in love.  I am covered, covered, covered by His blood, Jesus has rescued me.

Thought For Today:  Something is behind you.

Monday, November 20, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 20

“The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah. Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel. We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions. Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright. Save, LORD: let the king hear us when we call” (Psalms 20:1-9).

Today’s Morsel:  I always like to tell people, that if they were to remove the “u” from the word “trouble” that they wouldn’t have any.  I tell them that the “u’ represents them, and they can only have trouble with themselves being a part of it.  The psalmist said that the Lord hears us in the day of trouble and will send us help from the sanctuary. When we feel that unction to speak to or perform a kind deed for someone, we never know if it is because God is sending us to do it because He sees that the person is in trouble and needs assistance.  We never know how God will use us.  We just need to be willing vessels to go when He sends us.

Sing:  Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.  Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.  Now know I that the LORD will save His anointed; He will hear them from His holy heaven, with the saving strength of His right hand; They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.
 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the Lord our God.

Thought For Today:  Don’t ever think that God doesn’t know what is going on.

Saturday, November 18, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 18

“Then said Joab, I may not tarry thus with thee. And he took three darts in his hand, and thrust them through the heart of Absalom, while he was yet alive in the midst of the oak. And ten young men that bare Joab's armour compassed about and smote Absalom, and slew him” 
(2 Samuel 18:14-15)

Today’s Morsel:  When Absalom tried to take the kingdom from his father David, I don’t think that he thought this would be his demise.  But he failed to realize that his father was chosen by God to rule and reign over Israel, not him.  Absalom is a prime example of rebellion, stubbornness, disunity, and self-serving.  This spirit is displayed time and time again against leadership and authority.  This spirit is also associated with the Jezebel spirit, which is a dominant and controlling spirit. David did not want Absalom to be killed.  However, I believe his general, Joab, understood that this type spirit must be eradicated and not allowed to prevail because it will cause more harm than good and bring disunity and destruction to leadership.  Check your spirit, and walk in submission to the authority over you.  

Sing: I command you Satan in the name of the Lord, to pick-up your weapons and flee, for God hath given the authority to walk all over thee.

Thought For Today:  Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft and stubbornness as idolatry and inequity.  

Friday, November 17, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 17

“And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. And he had an helmet of brass upon his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. And he had greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him. And he stood and cried unto the armies of Israel, and said unto them, Why are ye come out to set your battle in array? am not I a Philistine, and ye servants to Saul? choose you a man for you, and let him come down to me. If he be able to fight with me, and to kill me, then will we be your servants: but if I prevail against him, and kill him, then shall ye be our servants, and serve us” (1 Samuel 17:2-9)

Today’s Morsel:  One thing that every Christian should be aware of is that your enemy is more afraid of you than you are of him.  James said, “Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble” (James 2:19).  With all his height and armor, Goliath was just as afraid of Israel as they were of him.  All he did was torment them from a distance.  One would think that with his height and armor, he would have just walked into the camp of Israel and wreak havoc.  But no, he just tormented them from a distance because of fear. The same way that Goliath wanted Israel to be their servants, Satan wants you to be his.  You must use your sword, the word of God, and defeat him.  Remember with assurance that greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world.

Sing: Be bold, be strong, for the Lord our God is with you. But bold, be strong, for the Lord our God is with you. I won’t be afraid, I won’t be dismay, cause I’m walking in faith and victory, come on, we are walking in faith in victory, for the Lord our God is with me.

Thought For Today: Greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. 

Thursday, November 16, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 16

“And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her” (Ruth 1:16-18).

Today’s Morsel:  I really like reading about Ruth.  To me, Ruth is a story of commitment on every page.  Whether it’s her or Boaz whom she would marry, they are both committed people.  Ruth was committed to her marriage vows, and, by all account, to her first husband.  We see her unwillingness to not leave her mother-in-law; Ruth was committed to this family and to God’s people.  And because of her willingness to choose the God of Israel as her God, God blessed her faithfulness and commitment by giving her another husband of His people and He brings her into the lineage line of His earthly birth.  You never know what your commitment to God and His people will produce.  Just rest assured, God will take notice.  Commitment is a choice.  And it is a choice that pays high dividends.

Sing:  Jesus use me, O’ Lord don’t refuse me, for surely there’s a work, that I can do.  And even though its humble, Lord help my will to crumble.  Though the cost be great I’ll work for You.

Thought For Today: Commitment is a choice (Parker)

Wednesday, November 15, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 15

“And when he came unto Lehi, the Philistines shouted against him: and the Spirit of the LORD came mightily upon him, and the cords that were upon his arms became as flax that was burnt with fire, and his bands loosed from off his hands. And he found a new jawbone of an ass, and put forth his hand, and took it, and slew a thousand men therewith. And Samson said, With the jawbone of an ass, heaps upon heaps, with the jaw of an ass have I slain a thousand men. And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast away the jawbone out of his hand, and called that place Ramathlehi. And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised? But God clave an hollow place that was in the jaw, and there came water thereout; and when he had drunk, his spirit came again, and he revived: wherefore he called the name thereof Enhakkore, which is in Lehi unto this day. And he judged Israel in the days of the Philistines twenty years” (Judges 15:14-20).

Today’s Morsel:  I like reading the Old Testament.  There are just so many motivating stories of God’s provisions and protection to encourage us, that if we don’t read it, we aren’t going to know what to do when we need help.  Paul said that the things which were written afore were written for our learning that we through patience and comfort of the scripture may have hope (Romans 15:4, my words).  Samson was chosen by God to deliver Israel. Some of the ways he went about doing it are to show us that God’s ways aren’t our ways, and neither is His thoughts.  Samson uses the jawbone of a donkey to kill a thousand men.  And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking, that he cast away the jawbone out of his hand, and called that place Ramathlehi, which means, “high place”.  And he was sore athirst, and called on the LORD, and said, Thou hast given this great deliverance into the hand of thy servant: and now shall I die for thirst, and fall into the hand of the uncircumcised? But God clave an hollow place that was in the jaw, and there came water thereout; and when he had drunk, his spirit came again, and he revived: wherefore he called the name thereof Enhakkore (The fountain of one calling).  The same weapon that Samson used to defeat his enemies, God used to give him drink to refresh him.  You never know what’s in a bone.  And you never know what God will use.

Sing:  I thirsted in a barren land of sin and shame and nothing satisfying there I found.  But to the blessed cross of Christ one day I came, where springs of living water did abound.
Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul they satisfy.  Drinking at the springs of living water, a wonderful and bountiful supply.

Thought For Today: You never know what’s in a bone.

Tuesday, November 14, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 14

“As the LORD commanded Moses, so the children of Israel did, and they divided the land. Then the children of Judah came unto Joshua in Gilgal: and Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite said unto him, Thou knowest the thing that the LORD said unto Moses the man of God concerning me and thee in Kadeshbarnea. Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the LORD sent me from Kadeshbarnea to espy out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly followed the LORD my God. And Moses sware on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children's for ever, because thou hast wholly followed the LORD my God. And now, behold, the LORD hath kept me alive, as he said, these forty and five years, even since the LORD spake this word unto Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness: and now, lo, I am this day fourscore and five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as I was in the day that Moses sent me: as my strength was then, even so is my strength now, for war, both to go out, and to come in. Now therefore give me this mountain, whereof the LORD spake in that day; for thou heardest in that day how the Anakims were there, and that the cities were great and fenced: if so be the LORD will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the LORD said. And Joshua blessed him, and gave unto Caleb the son of Jephunneh Hebron for an inheritance. Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the LORD God of Israel” (Joshua 14:5-14).

Today’s Morsel:  What do you do to keep yourself motivated and ready for what God may send your way? Caleb was 40-years old when Moses chose him to spy out the promised land for the children of Israel.  Caleb gave a good report of the land and believed that God would give it to them.  However, the people didn’t believe him and Joshua and, so they had to endure another 40 years in the wilderness.  We see in today scriptures that they are now in the promised land, Caleb is now 85 years old and he asks his friend and leader, Joshua, to give him the land that God told Moses that he would give him because of his faithfulness.  And Joshua gave him Hebron which would become one of David’s garrisons.  “And the time that David was king in Hebron over the house of Judah was seven years and six months” (2 Samuel 2:11).  We must always remember, the place that God gives us may someday be the place that He desires to build His church.  Keep building your faith and keep pressing forward.  

Sing:  Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary; pure and holy, tried and true.  With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living, sanctuary for you.

Thought For Today: Army Strong.

Monday, November 13, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 13

“If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers; Namely, of the gods of the people which are round about you, nigh unto thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him: But thou shalt surely kill him; thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people. And thou shalt stone him with stones, that he die; because he hath sought to thrust thee away from the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. And all Israel shall hear, and fear, and shall do no more any such wickedness as this is among you” (Deuteronomy 13:6-11).

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things I have learned and seen in the church is that no one backslides by themselves. Sadly, they will always take someone with them.  Maybe it’s the person who complains a lot; or the one who doesn’t like the style of music;, or the one who disagrees with the pastor’s stand on doctrine and teachings.  Either way, they aren’t going to leave by themselves.  Moses told the children of Israel, “If thy brother, the son of thy mother, or thy son, or thy daughter, or the wife of thy bosom, or thy friend, which is as thine own soul, entice thee secretly, saying, Let us go and serve other gods, which thou hast not known, thou, nor thy fathers; Namely, of the gods of the people which are round about you, nigh unto thee, or far off from thee, from the one end of the earth even unto the other end of the earth; Thou shalt not consent unto him, nor hearken unto him; neither shall thine eye pity him, neither shalt thou spare, neither shalt thou conceal him: But thou shalt surely kill him; thine hand shall be first upon him to put him to death, and afterwards the hand of all the people.”  In other words, cut them off.  Get them out of your life because they will cause you hardship and trouble. As Solomon’s mother told him, there is a snare and you do not want to be trapped by it (see Proverbs 1).  Don’t allow some to lead you astray.  Eternity in hell is a long time to be trapped.

Sing:  I’ve got a made-up mind, I’ve got a final destination, going to keep on pressing on, to my final destination.  Gonna burn all the bridges behind me, break all the ties that bind me; gonna keep on pressing on, till I reach that home sweet home. that New Jerusalem.

Thought For Today:  Be ye steadfast and unmovable (Parker).

Saturday, November 11, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 11

 “And Moses said, The people, among whom I am, are six hundred thousand footmen; and thou hast said, I will give them flesh, that they may eat a whole month. Shall the flocks and the herds be slain for them, to suffice them? or shall all the fish of the sea be gathered together for them, to suffice them? And the LORD said unto Moses, Is the LORD'S hand waxed short? thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not. And Moses went out, and told the people the words of the LORD, and gathered the seventy men of the elders of the people, and set them round about the tabernacle. And the LORD came down in a cloud, and spake unto him, and took of the spirit that was upon him, and gave it unto the seventy elders: and it came to pass, that, when the spirit rested upon them, they prophesied, and did not cease. But there remained two of the men in the camp, the name of the one was Eldad, and the name of the other Medad: and the spirit rested upon them; and they were of them that were written, but went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp. And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp. And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of Moses, one of his young men, answered and said, My lord Moses, forbid them. And Moses said unto him, Enviest thou for my sake? would God that all the LORD'S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them!” (Numbers 11:21-29)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about Spiritual authority is that you need Spiritual anointing.  We see this with the transition of Prophet ministry of Elijah to Elisha. Elisha requested a double portion of Elijah’s spirit and God granted it.  God took some of Moses' Spirit and put it upon the seventy elders.  However, when that spirit rested upon Eldad and Medad; they went not out unto the tabernacle: and they prophesied in the camp.  And there ran a young man, and told Moses, and said, Eldad and Medad do prophesy in the camp.  And Joshua, the servant of Moses said, Stop them.  And Moses said unto him, are you jealous?   Would God that all the LORD'S people were prophets, and that the LORD would put his spirit upon them (My wording).  Luke said, “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.  And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance … And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Acts 2:1-4;12-21).  Wouldn’t it be nice if everyone who says that they are born again lived that way?

Sing: Born again, there's been in change in me. Born again, just like Jesus said.  Born again, and all because of Calvary.  I’m so glad that I’ve been born again.

Thought For Today:  Have you received the Holy Ghost since you believed? 

Friday, November 10, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 10

“And Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron, took either of them his censer, and put fire therein, and put incense thereon, and offered strange fire before the LORD, which he commanded them not. And there went out fire from the LORD, and devoured them, and they died before the LORD” (Leviticus 10:1-2).

Today’s Morsel:  When Nadab and Abihu offered strange fire before God, which He commanded them not, they were consumed by the fire of God.  What was this strange fire that they offered?  Some think that it was the duty of only the high priest to burn incenses to God and not laity.  We see also that when King Uzziah wanted to perform a duty in the temple that wasn’t his to do, and he was smitten with leprosy.  “And Uzziah prepared for them throughout all the host shields, and spears, and helmets, and habergeons, and bows, and slings to cast stones. And he made in Jerusalem engines, invented by cunning men, to be on the towers and upon the bulwarks, to shoot arrows and great stones withal. And his name spread far abroad; for he was marvellously helped, till he was strong. But when he was strong, his heart was lifted up to his destruction: for he transgressed against the LORD his God, and went into the temple of the LORD to burn incense upon the altar of incense. And Azariah the priest went in after him, and with him fourscore priests of the LORD, that were valiant men: And they withstood Uzziah the king, and said unto him, It appertaineth not unto thee, Uzziah, to burn incense unto the LORD, but to the priests the sons of Aaron, that are consecrated to burn incense: go out of the sanctuary; for thou hast trespassed; neither shall it be for thine honour from the LORD God. Then Uzziah was wroth, and had a censer in his hand to burn incense: and while he was wroth with the priests, the leprosy even rose up in his forehead before the priests in the house of the LORD, from beside the incense altar. And Azariah the chief priest, and all the priests, looked upon him, and, behold, he was leprous in his forehead, and they thrust him out from thence; yea, himself hasted also to go out, because the LORD had smitten him. And Uzziah the king was a leper unto the day of his death, and dwelt in a several house, being a leper; for he was cut off from the house of the LORD: and Jotham his son was over the king's house, judging the people of the land. Now the rest of the acts of Uzziah, first and last, did Isaiah the prophet, the son of Amoz, write. So Uzziah slept with his fathers, and they buried him with his fathers in the field of the burial which belonged to the kings; for they said, He is a leper: and Jotham his son reigned in his stead” (2 Chronicles 26:14-23).   Whatever you do, don’t allow your pride to cause your death.  Always follow the plan of God.  

Sing: They that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles.  They shall run and not grow weary, they shall walk and not faint.  Teach me, Lord, teach me, Lord, to wait.

Thought For Today: Don’t allow pride to cause your death.

Thursday, November 9, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 9

“Then the LORD said unto Moses, Go in unto Pharaoh, and tell him, Thus saith the LORD God of the Hebrews, Let my people go, that they may serve me. For if thou refuse to let them go, and wilt hold them still, Behold, the hand of the LORD is upon thy cattle which is in the field, upon the horses, upon the asses, upon the camels, upon the oxen, and upon the sheep: there shall be a very grievous murrain” (Exodus 9:1-3).

Today’s Morsel:  Most of us that have been around the church for any length of time have heard the story of the ten plagues that God performed through Moses against Pharaoh and the Egyptians.  Many people have asked why God hardened Pharaoh's heart.  The term hardened Pharaoh heart meant that Pharaoh would become stubborn and not obey God.  When a person’s heart is hardened, they don’t listen to what you are telling them to do.  They have already made up their mind and aren't willing to change no matter what someone tries to tell them or show them.  One would think that after seeing the other plagues that God had done, Pharaoh would have relented and let Israel go.  But after each plague, he become harder and harder in his mind and we see the end-state.  In writing to the church, Paul instructs us: “For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it” (Hebrews 4:2).  Pharaoh did not believe, and it cost him.  Let's not harden our hearts when we hear God’s word that He send us from the preacher, or we too can be plagued and not profit.

Sing:  What a Mighty God we serve. What a Mighty God we serve.  Angels bow before Him, heaven and earth adore Him.  What a Mighty God we serve.

Thought For Today:  Obedience is always better than sacrifice.

Wednesday, November 8, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 8

 “And Noah builded an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And the LORD smelled a sweet savour; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more every thing living, as I have done. While the earth remaineth, seedtime and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease” (Genesis 8:20-22)

Today’s Morsel:  There is nothing I like better than when I walk into our home and my wife is cooking my favorite meal.  That smell just permeates into my nose and I begin almost to salivate at the thought of the scrumptious taste.  Scripture says that when Noah came out of the Ark “he built an altar unto the LORD; and took of every clean beast, and of every clean fowl, and offered burnt offerings on the altar. And the LORD smelled a sweet savour; and the LORD said in his heart, I will not again curse the ground any more for man's sake; for the imagination of man's heart is evil from his youth; neither will I again smite any more everything living, as I have done.”  In other words, God was well pleased with this act and the obedience of Noah’s faith. Noah’s sacrifice prefigured that which was to be offered by our Lord Jesus Christ on behalf of the world.  In writing to the church at Ephesus, the apostle Paul, stated, “Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour” (Ephesians 5:1-2).  Notice, Jesus Christ has loved us and has given himself for an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor to God for us.  Personally, I believe that Noah had the first Barbecue House (just a little humor to start our day!).

Sing:  Your only Son, they crucified, they laughed and scorned Him as He died.  The Humble King, they named a fraud and sacrificed the Lamb of God.
O’ Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God.  I love the Holy Lamb of God.  O’ wash me in, His precious blood.  My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Thought For Today:  Be ye followers of Him.

Tuesday, November 7, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 7

“And they took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 16:1)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about “Sin” is that it is everywhere.  No matter how saved you may think that you are, you are going to have to go through the Wilderness of Sin.  You are going to have to walk through Satan’s playground; this world.  From the time that Jesus was baptized, He was led of the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by Satan (Luke 4:1-16); and we are no exception. Sin is like a wilderness.  It will leave you barren, dry, and without hope and without Christ in your life.  The children of Israel came into the wilderness of sin after they came out of Egypt (a type and shadow of the world), and the whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness (Exodus 16:2).  You see, when you are surrounded by “Sin” it’s going to make it hard for you to see what God is doing on your behalf.  It’s confusing and like the noise of a battle, and you are right in the middle of it.  You must walk by faith and not by sight in this world that you are now living in, it is the only way you will make it through the desert of “Sin”.

Sing: Let me walk with You, Jesus. Don’t ever lead me alone.  For without You I could never, no never make heaven my home.

Thought For Today:  Sin shall not have dominion over you.

Monday, November 6, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 6

“Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. Wherefore, my dearly beloved, flee from idolatry.” (1 Corinthians 10:12-14).

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that I have learned lately is that temptation always comes just before revelation.  Just before I learn something deep and profound about God and His ways, I am tempted to do something else.  You see, if Satan can tempt you to draw your attention away from God, he can distort the revelation that God is bringing your way.  Therefore, he does everything in his power to keep you out of the church.  Not only does he know that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God, he knows that revelation also comes by the same method.  And so he tempts you to stay home, to not read your Bible, to sleep in, to not pray, and to give more attention to other things than the word and house of God, and you’ll miss out on what Jesus is trying to show you.  So, the next time you feel tempted to do the things mentioned above, ask yourself what is God getting ready to show you.  Remember, Jesus never tempts anyone.  

Sing:  Temptations, hidden snares, often take us unawares, and our hearts are made to bleed for each thoughtless word or deed; and we wonder why the test when we try to do our best, but we’ll understand it better by and by.
By and by when the morning comes, and all the saints of God are gathering home, we will tell the story how we've overcome, and we will understand it better by and by.

Thought For Today: Remember, Jesus never tempts anyone (Parker).

Saturday, November 4, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 4

“And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” (Matthew 6:5-15)

Today’s Morsel:  Why do you pray?  Do you have a daily prayer life?  I find praying as a time of refreshing for me. Praying keeps me in contact with The One that I am living for and longing to see.  In a sense, to me praying is like in olden times when we had to communicate with the one we loved through snail mail.  We would write a letter, put a stamp on the envelope, drop it in the mail, and wait sometimes for weeks for a reply.  Sometimes the reply took longer then we desired to wait, but sooner or later we got an answer.  Somewhat like Daniel who waited for 21 days for his answer.  This is how I see our praying through the eyes of heaven.  Jesus knows what we have need of, but He may use the snail mail approach to help develop our faith. Jesus said the Father already knows what we need.  So, don’t feel as though you must keep repeating it.  Prayer is still the best form of communication for getting things done if we learn to just have faith when we ask and wait.

Sing:  Learning to lean, I’m learning to lean, I’m learning to lean on Jesus.  Finding more power, than I’ve ever dreamed.  I’m learning to lean on Jesus.

Thought For Today:  Prayer is still the best form of communication for getting things done. 

Friday, November 3, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 3

“Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil. And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it”   (1 Thessalonians 5:16-24)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about being a Christian is we must remain whole.  You just can’t give Jesus part of you, He wants all of you.  Paul told the church at Thessalonica, “And I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”  Your spirit (the source of life to the body and soul), your body (this outer shell that we call the flesh), and your soul (will, emotions, affections).  Why did he want them to be whole?  Because any sin in their life would render them unworthy of Christ.  And because He is Holy and desires us to be also (1 Peter 1:16).  God made us whole from the beginning, but Satan caused corruption in our lives.  Now we must be born again (John 3:3-5), and do everything that we can to present ourselves blameless and without sin in our lives when we appear before Him.

Sing:  Lord, I lift my spirit, to your Spirit, in holy sweet communion.  I sense Your holy presence as I draw nearer, Lord I lift my spirit to You.

Thought For Today: Don’t let sin rein in your mortal body.

Thursday, November 2, 2017

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 November 2

"And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day. The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day?" (Luke 13:10-16)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about spiritual warfare is Satan desires to bind you so that you can never get loose.  He is binding people to tattoos and body piercing so that they will always be reminded of his bondage.  He continues to roam about seeking whom he may bind to alcohol, drugs, abuse, molestation, and other workings of the flesh as he knows that people will be hard-pressed to break free from these things.  But Jesus has come to make us free.  Therefore, to overcome these things of Satan, Jesus said we must continue in His word.  We are cleansed by the word of God (See John 15:3; Psalms 119:9).  The reminders may be there in our flesh that Satan once had us bound, but the Holy Spirit lets us know that we can be loosed from him through Jesus Christ our Lord.  

Sing:  Once like a bird in prison I dwelt, no freedom from my sorrow I felt, but Jesus came and listened to me, and glory to God, He set me free.
He set me free, yes, He set me free; He broke the bonds of prison for me, I’m glory bound my Jesus to see, glory to God, He set me free.

Thought For Today:  If the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.