Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 30

All Hope Is Not Lost

 

“And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.” (Acts 27:18-25)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about serving God is that He causes it to rain on the just and unjust. Sometimes other’s lack of obedience to God’s words can affect us as well. Throughout scripture we see that many suffered for the lack of other’s obedience. Korah, Dathan, and Abiram, and their families were lost because of their rebellion (Numbers 16). Achan and his family were lost because of his disobedience. And in today’s passage, we see 276 souls aboard a ship in the middle of the ocean, in a storm, and their lives in jeopardy because the captain listened to the owner of the ship instead of Paul, the man of God. And Luke writes, And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. When we are outside of the will of God, it will always cause us to feel that hope is lost when we are in a life threating situation. But when we are in His will, all hope is never lost for us. As the writer of Hebrews admonishes: “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” (Hebrews 10:35-39 The woman with the issue of blood never lost hope. And neither did Job. Hope is never lost for the children of God. So be of good cheer, He that will come, will come. Simply stay obedient to His word.

 

Sing: I was sinking deep in sin far from the peaceful shore, very deeply stain with sin, sinking to rise no more; but the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry, from the water He lifted me, now safe am I.

Love lifted me, love lifted me, when nothing else could help, love lifted me. Love lifted me, love lifted me, when nothing else could help, love, lifted, me. 

 

Thought For Today: “That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil” (Hebrews 6:18-19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 29

Where Did Our Love Go?

 

“Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:1-7)

 

Today’s Morsel: If you were asked to rate your love for God on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being highest, what would be your answer? “Ooh, baby, baby Where did our love go?  Ooh, don't you want me? Don't you want me no more? Ooh, baby, baby, baby where did our love go? And all of your promises of a love forever more.” If you are a baby boomer like me, or you grew up in the 60’s, then you probably heard this song sung by the pop group, Diana Ross and the Supremes, entitled, “Where Did Our Love Go.” Why is it that many seem to lose their love for God and others even though they promised that they would always love Him? Jesus informs the church at Ephesus that for all the good things which they were doing, they had now omitted the most important. They had left their first love. What was their first love? According to the apostle Paul, it was their "… faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints” (Ephesians 1:15) Where did their love go? They started to separate themselves from the other believers. This is why, I believe, that when we read Paul’s letters to this church, he addresses oneness and the unity of the body. And that Christ and God are one, and thus that His church must be one. Anytime we start feeling as though we don’t need others and the church, we break the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace, which will cause us to lose our faith in Jesus and love for the saints. And so, Paul tells them: “I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all.” (Ephesians 4:1-6) It’s easy to leave your first love if you do not stive to maintain unity in the body. 

 

Sing: Let me walk blessed Lord, in the way Thou hast gone, leading straight to the land above. Giving cheer everywhere, to the sad and the lone, fill my way everyday with love.

 Fill my way everyday with love, as I walk with the heavenly Dove; let me go all the while with a song and a smile, fill my way everyday with love.

 

Thought For Today: “We love him, because he first loved us.” (1 John 4:19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 28

Thanksgiving

 

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.” (1 Timothy 4:1-5)

 

Today’s Morsel: Today, around the globe, but especially here in America, we celebrate Thanksgiving. A tradition which has continued for many years here in America, and around the world for our military members and their families. The pilgrims wanted to express their thanks for what God had done for them, by inviting the Indians to join them. Throughout scripture, we are called to never forget what God has done for us. Thanksgiving is not only a great reminder to be thankful for God’s provisions, but more importantly, it is a time to share our thanksgiving with others for what God has done for us, which also brings honor to God for His provision. Today, tables will be filled with much sustenance and excitement. But in all the excitement and dining, please don’t forget to give God thanks for His bountiful blessings toward you. 

 

Sing: Thanks, Thanks, I give You thanks, for all You have done; I am so blessed, my soul have found rest, oh Lord, I give You thanks.

 

Thought For Today: “I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.” (Psalms 69:30)

 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 27

Worship First

 

“And Miriam the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.” (Exodus 15:20-21)

 

Today’s Morsel: When the children of Israel were delivered of their enemies, their first act was to worship God. This set in motion a new way of fighting for them. They realized that God’s word was true and that He would fight their battles for them, and so their actions must be to praise Him in advance for the outcome.  After the death of Joshua, the children of Israel asked God who should go up first and lead them? And His reply was that Judah shall go up first. Judah means praise. When King Jehoshaphat found himself outnumbered by his enemies, he prayed to God. And after hearing from God that the battle was not theirs but His, he sent the praisers out first before his army.  Our worship and praise show God that we are trusting in Him and not in ourselves and others to fight our battles for us. As Paul said: “(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;)”(2 Corinthians 10:4) Worship and praise are some of those non-carnal weapons that are in our arsenal that we can use to bring down strongholds in our lives and deliver us from the fear and attacks of our enemies.

 

Sing: Whoso offereth praise glorify Me. Whoso offereth praise glorify Me. And to him that ordereth his conversation aright, will I show the salvation of God.

 

Thought For Today: “Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God.” (Psalms 50:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 26

Thank God for The Blood

 

“Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” (Hebrews 9:18-22)

 

Today’s Morsel: Are you thankful for Calvary? Paul said: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18) He told the church at Rome: “For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him.” (Romans 5:6-9) One of the duties of the high priest was each year to carry the blood sacrifice for the people’s sins into the Holy of Holies and offer them unto God. It was the blood that made the atonement for sin. But when Jesus Christ, who became our sacrificial Lamb and our High Priest, offered Himself for our sins, there was now no longer a need for a blood sacrifice. He paid the debt for all of them present and for those which were to come. Aren’t you thankful?

 

Sing: Thank God for the blood, thank God for the blood; Thank God for the blood, that washes white as snow. 

 

Thought For Today: “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” (Leviticus 17:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 25

I Thank God

 

 “I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers,” (Philemon 1:4)

 

Today’s Morsel: If you were praying and you had a list of all the people in the world that God has placed in your pathway, and that He has given you an opportunity to interact with, how long do you think you would be praying for them and giving God thanks? I know for me, there has been so many wonderful people that He has brought into my life to help me along the way, and in so many ways changed me for the better. The list would be long, let me tell you!  Let me encourage you, the next time you are just sitting and reminiscing on the past, why not start thanking God for the people that He has placed in your path over the years. Yes, some of them you could care less about, but even those, God may have used to teach us things we ought not to do, and for that we can be thankful. Paul seemed to be a man with a heart of gratitude. He even mentioned those who caused him hardship and pain. But he concluded by thanking God for being with him through it all. 

 

Sing: Wandering into the night, wanting a place to hide, this weary soul, this bag of bones. And I tried with all my mind, and I just can't win the fight, I'm slowly drifting, oh vagabond. And just when I ran out of road, I met a man I didn't know, and He told me that I was not alone.

He picked me up, He turned me around, He placed my feet on solid ground, I thank the Master, I thank the Savior, because He healed my heart, He changed my name, forever free, I’m not the same, I thank the Master, I thank the Savior, I thank God. 

(Song by Maverick City Music and UPPERROOM)

 

Thought For Today: “I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,” (Philippians 1:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 23

The Value of Afflictions

 

“It is good for me that I have been afflicted; that I might learn thy statutes.” (Psalms 119:71)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that we must learn as Christians is that God did not promise you a rose garden, nor did He say that you would not have troubles and tribulations for serving and committing yourself to Him. As a matter of fact, Jesus said: “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's sake, because they know not him that sent me.” (John 15:18-21) and then He said: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10) So, when hell starts coming against you, and afflictions (sickness, disease, infirmities, disorders, problems, and   difficulties) start raining down on your parade, you need to have your mind made up, and say as Job said, “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” (Job 23:10) And as Moses wrote of the children of Israel when afflicted by Pharoah: “But the more they afflicted them, the more they multiplied and grew. And they were grieved because of the children of Israel.” (Exodus 1:12) Seeing us standing strong while growing and maturing in Christ in the time of affliction ought to make the devil tremble.  Are you making him tremble?

 

Sing: Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He. Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He. Lift-up your banner let the anthem ring, praises to our King.  Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He.

 

Thought For Today: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” (Psalms 34:19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 22

Wonderful Thing’s

 

“And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” (Daniel 11:32)

 

Today’s Morsel: Having the knowledge of God can open many doors for you, and it can also give you strength and power to persevere during times of hardships and troubles.  When we understand the power of God, and what He has imparted unto us, we can do great things. One of the many failures that some Christians make is they try to use their knowledge of God to gain popularity in the world, and leave a legacy in the world, instead using it in the vineyard to leave a legacy in the church. The patriarchs of old didn’t strive to leave anything in this world. They knew that they were to use their knowledge and abilities to represent Christ and to make Him known. Scripture says, “And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens.” (Hebrews 11:32-34) They saw their role as using their gifts and abilities to pull people out of the world and bring them into an understanding with Christ. The only way that you can have success and make an impact in the lives of others is to know God for yourself, and then not be afraid to use that knowledge for His glory, and to make Him known to others.

 

Sing: There is power, power, wonder working power, in the blood, of the Lamb. There is power, power, wonder working power in the precious blood of the Lamb.

 

Thought For Today: “And Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow:” (2 Samuel 23:20)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 21

 Stay in the Church 

“And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he departed from him for a season. And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of him through all the region round about. And he taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all. And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read.” (Luke 4:13-16)

 

Today’s Morsel: I am starting to become concerned because folk are starting to lose their love for attending church.  But of course, the apostle Paul had already told us, that in the last days, many would fall away. “Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; Who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshipped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, shewing himself that he is God.” (2 Thessalonians 2:3-4) I know that there are many people who feel and think that you do not need the church to make it to heaven. And in their thinking, they may be absolutely correct. But if I am a follower of Christ, then he gave me an example; and that example was he went to church. The Bible says that it was His custom, or His habit.  Yes, I know that we are the church, but we are cautioned to not forsake the assembly of ourselves together. And we are told to do it so much more as we see the day of Jesus coming approaching.  The Psalmist wrote, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the LORD.” (Psalms 122:1) I don’t know, but I haven’t seen God’s character manifested in anyone who doesn’t go to church.

 

Sing:  It’s the old ship of Zion, it’s the hope for the lost and dying, It’s a soul saving station, it’s the tower of salvation, it’s the church triumphant, O Lord and it’s built by the hand of the Lord. I’m talking about the church in the Book of Revelation, it’s built on the Rock, it’s got a firm foundation, it’s been through the flood, it’s been through the fire, but one of these days the church is gonna move up higher; it’s the church triumphant, O Lord, and it’s built by the hand of the Lord.

Thought For Today: “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” (Hebrews 10:25)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 20

Stop Procrastinating

 

“Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” (James 4:13-15)

 

Today’s Morsel: How many times would you say that you have put off something that you know should have done today for another day? Why do we allow procrastination to get into our hearts? Why do we think that we have tomorrow to do something when we don’t know what tomorrow may hold? Don’t we usually feel better when we do what we know we ought to do today, instead of waiting for another day to do it? James said we don’t know what tomorrow holds. He said that we ought to say if the Lord will we will do this or that. Solomon enlightened us with these words: “I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and co“nsidered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.” (Proverbs 24:30-34) How do you spell procrastination? One version could be - LAZY!

 

Sing: Here I am Lord, Here I am, I give all myself to You here, I am. Here I am Lord, Here I am. Let Your Spirit move through me, here I am.

 

Thought For Today: Don’t put off for tomorrow what you can do today.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 19

The Greatest Gift

 

“And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)

 

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever considered why God chose the word love to display who He is? What is it about love that it can draw us closer, break our hearts, cause division, and even cause us to do wrong things? Love only causes us to do wrong things when we don’t understand love. As Christians, we know that God is love based on the word of God. Love is who and what God is. You can’t explain love. Love must be displayed and carried out through action and conduct. Love is more than just affection for someone and something. To me, love is both a verb and an adjective. Not only does it reveal one’s actions or state of being, but it also modifies or describes how an individual’s actions and behavior ought to be. God calls for us to put our love into action and to live it out before Him and others. Maybe this is where we get the saying, actions speak louder than words. And when we do that correctly, it will reveal God in our lives, and it will also describe who we are in Him before others. Paul lets us know that love is the bond of perfectness (Colossian 3:14), and that we must be knitted together in love (Colossians 2:2). When we love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, it joins us into completion in Him, and causes us to manifest to others who He is in our lives. 

 

Sing: The greatest gift in all my life is loving You. The greatest gift in all my life is loving You. I want to love You more, I want to love You more. The greatest gift in all my life is loving You.

 

Thought For Today: “Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.” (1 John 4:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 18

Don’t Lose Your Gratitude

 

“Therefore thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, to walk in his ways, and to fear him. For the LORD thy God bringeth thee into a good land, a land of brooks of water, of fountains and depths that spring out of valleys and hills; A land of wheat, and barley, and vines, and fig trees, and pomegranates; a land of oil olive, and honey; A land wherein thou shalt eat bread without scarceness, thou shalt not lack any thing in it; a land whose stones are iron, and out of whose hills thou mayest dig brass. When thou hast eaten and art full, then thou shalt bless the LORD thy God for the good land which he hath given thee. Beware that thou forget not the LORD thy God, in not keeping his commandments, and his judgments, and his statutes, which I command thee this day: Lest when thou hast eaten and art full, and hast built goodly houses, and dwelt therein; And when thy herds and thy flocks multiply, and thy silver and thy gold is multiplied, and all that thou hast is multiplied; Then thine heart be lifted up, and thou forget the LORD thy God, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage; Who led thee through that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water; who brought thee forth water out of the rock of flint; Who fed thee in the wilderness with manna, which thy fathers knew not, that he might humble thee, and that he might prove thee, to do thee good at thy latter end; And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish. As the nations which the LORD destroyeth before your face, so shall ye perish; because ye would not be obedient unto the voice of the LORD your God.” (Deuteronomy 8:6-20)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of Moses’ last charges to the children of Israel was to warn them not to forget God and what He had done for them. He told them that no matter how good things got for them in the promised land, they must never forget God. You see, when we forget God, it is because we have lost our gratitude. When we forget what God has done for us, we start being ungrateful and we can easily start to think that we don’t need God and others. Paul lets us know that when we are not thankful for what God has done for us, He will give us over to a reprobate mind.

 

Sing: Jesus, I’ll never forget what You’ve done for me. Jesus I’ll never forget how You set me free. Jesus I’ll never forget how You brought me out. Jesus I’ll never forget, no, never.

 

Thought For Today: Whatever you do, don’t forget God!

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 16

Thy Loving-kindness

 

“O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary. Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee. Thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name.” (Psalms 63:1-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever gotten to the point that it feels as though God is missing in your life? I mean, you are doing everything that you know to do and yet it feels like you just can’t get a breakthrough. Everyone else seems to be rejoicing, worshipping, and excited about what it is taking place in the church service, but you just can’t seem to get enough motivation within yourself to raise your hands or get excited. One of the things we must learn is that giving God praise shouldn’t be because of what others are doing. Our praise ought to be because of His lovingkindness towards us. We worship and praise God because of His goodness, mercy, grace, and truth.  I find that for me, when I feel as though God isn’t near, that it is during this time that He is teaching me to walk by faith and not by sight. When my soul seems dry and thirsty, it is a call for me to come to the fountain and drink. And when it seems as though God has moved, it’s a call for me to get back on course. And when I feel like weeping and crying, all I need to do is prime the pump within. Because I have a well of living water inside of me. As Jesus told the woman at the well: “But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:14)

 

Sing: Thy loving-kindness is better than life. Thy loving-kindness is better than life. My lips shall praise Thee, thus will I bless Thee. I will lift-up my hands unto Thy name.

I will lift-up my hands unto Thy name. I will lift-up my hands unto Thy name. My lips shall praise Thee, thus will I bless Thee. I will lift-up my hands unto Thy name. 

 

Thought For Today: “For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.” (Psalms 26:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 15

His Salvation

 

“Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.” (Psalms 91:14-16)

 

Today’s Morsel: What comes to your mind when you think of salvation? Do you think of being delivered from sin? Do you think of being made free? Do you think of being saved from drowning while swimming? Do you think of being baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost? The word of God says that “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” (Psalms 91:1) And that “Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.”(Psalms 91:15-16) Just what is God’s salvation that He will show us? Jesus said: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32); “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6). Jesus Christ is Salvation. As Peter said: “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:12) “And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus.” (John 12:20-22) If you abide close to Him, He will show you His salvation. Do you know Him?

 

Sing: When I first found Jesus, something over me stole, like lightning it went through me, and glory filled my soul. Salvation made me happy, and took my fears away, and when I meet old Satan to him, I always say:

“I am determined to hold out to the end, Jesus is with me, on Him I can depend. And I know I have salvation, for I feel it in my soul. I am determined to hold out to the end.”

 

Thought For Today: “And they shall not teach every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the Lord: for all shall know me, from the least to the greatest.” (Hebrews 8:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 14

 Thanks, At Midnight

“At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto thee because of thy righteous judgments.” (Psalms 119:62)

 

Today’s Morsel: What do you do when you are awakened in the middle of the night? Do you get upset that someone is texting you? Do you get upset because there is noise outside? Or do you get up and give God thanks? Sometimes, our being aroused from our sleep at midnight could be God’s way of arousing us to get up and pray for someone else, or that something is wrong within our homes, or one of our children may be having a bad night’s sleep, or our neighbors could be having a hard time in their lives. I believe this is why no matter what we face we ought to always have a heart of gratitude. The psalmist said that at midnight he would rise to give God thanks because of His righteous judgments. God is a God who does what is right. Not what we may think is right. And He judges right even if we think that His judgements are not right. God is merciful. Don’t ever forget that. Therefore, we ought to thank Him even at midnight when it seems like God isn’t fair. For as Paul said: “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)

 

Sing: The more I seek Him, the more I find Him. The more I find Him, the more I love Him.  I want to sit at Your feet, drink from the cup in Your hand, lay back against You and breathe, feel Your heartbeat. This love is so deep it’s more than I can stand, I melt in Your peace, it’s overwhelming.

 

Thought For Today: “I lead in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of judgment: That I may cause those that love me to inherit substance; and I will fill their treasures.” (Proverbs 8:20-21)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 13

 Transforming Power 

“But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

 

Today’s Morsel: When Jesus said that we would receive power after the Holy Ghost was come upon us, I believe He was speaking of transformation. No one can say that they have God’s Spirit and there isn’t a major transformation in their lives.  Every indication written in the book of Acts (the book where folks were saved), from the Day of Pentecost when man first receive the Holy Ghost, is that there was transformation in those lives. The Holy Ghost brought a change in their lives. According to Luke: “Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles. And all that believed were together, and had all things common; And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need. And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” (Acts 2:41-47) There was a change in their lives. Even Paul, after meeting Jesus on the road to Damascus, was transformed: “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 1:12-14) Paul’s life was totally transformed from the day that he met Jesus on that road. Do you remember what road you were on and where you were headed when Jesus changed your life and directions? Can others see that transformation in you?

 

Sing:  Well, I’ve been changed, I am newborn now, all my life has been rearranged. What a difference it made when the Lord came to stay; in my heart, oh, yes, I’ve been change. 

 

Thought For Today: “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 12

The Peace of God

 

“Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

 

Today’s Morsel: I am sure you, like me, have heard people request during prayer for the peace of God during their decisions and situation. How would you describe the peace of God? Do you know what you are asking for when you pray for peace for yourself or for God’s peace for others? If peace is a state of tranquility, calmness, and serenity in God, how do we gain it or lose it? Isn’t God’s peace a by-product of His Spirit (Galatians 5:22)? If we are not careful, sometimes we may pray for something that we already have. As Paul admonished Timothy: “Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.” (2 Timothy 1:6) Peace is an inner state of ones being. Peace is built on the foundation of one’s spiritual practices such as compassion, ethics, unity, and forgiveness. When these things are missing, peace is missing also. Notice what Paul says we must do to maintain Gods peace. He said, “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.”  Don’t be wearied about things but pray and let God work on your behalf. Isaiah also gives us understanding for maintaining God’s peace in our lives: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3) Notice, keep our minds on Jesus will keep us in God’s peace. And Jeremiah enlightens us on Gods peace:“And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall ye have peace.” (Jeremiah 29:7)You seek God for it.  And the Lord Himself give us an understanding of maintaining His Peace: “Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” (Jeremiah 6:16) Notice, ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. When the Lord speaks of peace, He is often speaking of rest, quiet and stillness in our hearts. The Holy Ghost ought to keep you in a state of serenity. Jesus said: “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” (John 14:27) Peace doesn’t mean the absence of trouble. It means that it will keep you calm and still even in the midst of trouble.

 

Sing: I’ve got peace like a river, I’ve got peace like a river, I’ve got peace like a river in my soul. I’ve got peace like a river, I’ve got peace like a river, I’ve got peace like a river in my soul.

 

Thought For Today: “And the work of righteousness shall be peace; and the effect of righteousness quietness and assurance for ever.” (Isaiah 32:17)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 11

 Veteran’s Day 

“These be the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same was Adino the Eznite: he lift up his spear against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time.” (2 Samuel 23:8)

 

Today’s Morsel: Today across America we celebrate and honor all those who have served in our military services but are now no longer serving in uniform. Many of them are now retired, entrepreneurs, church leaders, pastors, teachers, doctors, flight attendants, pilots, police officers, politicians, perhaps janitors, or even sports figures. The list could go on and on. But these men and woman have sacrificed themselves and their time for our nation’s defense. They were not asking for handouts. They just wanted to serve their country and they have done it with courage. And they are to be commended for a job well done. Our nation has been safe and prosperous in so many ways because of our military veterans. When you run into a veteran, you can be sure of certain things. 

-       First, they have a love for their country, and the American flag, and its people. 

-       Second, you don’t find prejudice in their heart. They may dislike what you say or do, but they have been taught to love others as themselves.  

-       Third, they are willing to help others when they find that there is a need. They will give, labor, and do whatever it takes to alleviate the suffering of others if they know it will make others better. 

-       Fourth, they don’t like it when service to their country is made light of, nor do they have time for the people who have not served and who have no knowledge of what they have sacrificed, and the service given for their country that do make light of the service of the military.

-       Fifth, they have no time for liars. 

-       Sixth, they don’t have time for leaders who won’t let them complete the mission. 

-       Seventh, they are proud of their contributions to the country. And if asked, they would do it again because they know what value they have made for our country defense. 

 

If you are a veteran thank you for your service.  I salute you today.  

 

Sing: Glory, glory, hallelujah. Glory, glory, hallelujah. Glory, glory, hallelujah, and I ain’t gonna jump no more.  

 

Thought For Today: “No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please him who hath chosen him to be a soldier.” (2 Timothy 2:4)

  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 9

Abounding In Grace

 

“Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also.” (2 Corinthians 8:7)

 

Today’s Morsel: There seems to be an abounding for more of the world then for the things of God. Man seems to be chasing after the dollars, which as fleeting, right before his very eyes than the things of God. Tommy Tenny wrote a book titled, “God Chasers.” But few seem to be chasing after Him. They are chasing after things that really don’t matter, and they wonder why they are tired and have little or no hope. Christians are losing faith, hope, and love for the things of God and His truth. Salvation doesn’t seem to matter to some anymore, whether they have it or not. Holy living and a separation from the world for some is becoming old fashion. For some, seeking for more of God’s grace and mercy and applying it to their lives is no longer important. When the things of the world are more evident in the lives of Christians than the things of God, we have a problem. Grace has been identified as God’s unmerited love and divine influence in your life. Paul calls for us to abound in grace. To abound in grace means to never run out of grace to where you do not have enough to give to other when they need it. You grow your grace by living according to the ‘Golden Rule’ and having a heart of compassion for others. Grace grows each time you are willing to forgive others for their wrong, and help others alleviate their suffering. Grace will grow just like faith if you use it and plant it. If we say that we have a love for Christ, then we ought to have abundance of grace because of it. 

 

Sing: Years I spent in vanity and pride, caring not my Lord was crucified. Knowing not it was for me He died, on Calvary. Mercy there was great, and grace was free.  Pardon there was multiplied to me; there my burdened soul found liberty, at Calvary.

 

Thought For Today:  “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 8

 The New Life 

“If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:21-24)

 

Today’s Morsel: Are you living in the new life, or are you living in the old? Once we are born-again of the water and spirit, we must now live and operate in newness of life. We were risen to do such. Our new life must be a total reflection of Jesus. Truth must be loved, seen, manifested, and taught by us. Our lives must be free from sin and all unrighteousness. Our life ought to be what others are seeking to emulate. Our character and outlook on life ought to reflect truth. The new man,  Jesus Christ. Therefore, we must put Him on if we want to have a new life. “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” (Romans 13:14) There ought to be no indication that the old man is still in operation in you. Your new life begins with having a love for God and His word, and daily walking according to it.

 

Sing: This joy that I have the world didn’t give it to me, this joy that I have, the world didn’t give it to me. This joy that I have the world didn’t give it to me; the world didn’t give it, and the world can’t take it away. 

 

Thought For Today: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27)