Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 4

Feed Your Soul

“Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.” (Proverbs 19:2)

Today’s Morsel: Whether you think so or not, your soul wants to be fed. Many souls are suffering and struggling because they are not being fed healthy food. Your soul is craving daily for the knowledge of God. It’s not good for the soul to be without proper knowledge. Knowledge is power. When we see those pictures of foreign countries where the people seem to be malnourished, hungry, and starving, it grieves our spirits. But are we starving our own selves because we are not feeding our soul with the word of God?  John states: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2) It’s a sad day when just about every home has a Bible in them, and souls are starving to be fed (and yes they do, it is available right on their phones!). Solomon, said, “A slothful man hideth his hand in his bosom, and will not so much as bring it to his mouth again.” (Proverbs 19:24) A person who is an extremely lazy person who cannot perform such a simple task as feeding themselves illustrates that they do not care for themselves. The children of Israel, in their trek in the wilderness, ate manna every day. When Elijah desired to die, the angel had a cake on the fire for him and told him to eat, because he had a 40-day journey before him. You can’t sit and wait for your pastor or some other minister to feed you on Sunday and Wednesday. There are five other days that you need to eat. Yes, you can fast natural food, but not the word of God. That’s your soul’s lifeline.  You need to get up daily and eat from the Word of God for yourself, so that your soul prospers and is in good health. To wait for someone else to feed you, you may starve to death. 

Sing: Here’s my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord, come and quench this thirsting of my soul; Bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more; Here’s my cup, I lift it up, make me whole.

Thought For Today: You better eat your Wheaties!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 3

Silence

“He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life: but he that openeth wide his lips shall have destruction.” (Proverbs 13:3)

Today’s Morsel: Solomon, the wisest man in the world, seems to have a lot to say about keeping silent or knowing when to speak and when to remain silent. He tells us, “He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.” (Proverbs 17:27-28); “… a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;” (Ecclesiastes 3:7) Solomon teaches us the value of silence and self-control. He suggests that even a fool can appear as being wise by refraining from speaking. He emphasizes that wisdom is often demonstrated by a person’s ability to refrain their words and to listen more than speaking. Some people just love to hear themselves talk. Jesus said that wisdom is justified of all her children. Those who know Him and accept Him as their Lord and Savior, actions and conduct, and even silence ought to reveal His truth. 

Sing: When He calls for me, I will answer, when He calls for me, I will hear; When He calls for me, I will answer, I’ll be somewhere listening for my name.

I’ll be somewhere listening, I’ll be somewhere listening, I’ll be somewhere listening for my name; I’ll be somewhere listening, I’ll be somewhere listening, I’ll be somewhere listening for my name. 

Thought For Today: “Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” (Psalms 34:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 2

Waiting On The Lord

“Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD.” (Psalms 27:14)

Today’s Morsel: How long is your patience? Words such as patience, consistency, long-suffering, endurance, and commitment are words which we read in the Bible that let us know that we must have some grit and intestinal fortitude in our lives to stand strong and wait. I can remember, when my family and I were stationed in Italy. To own a telephone in your home would cost you over $600 installation fee, and then there was no telling what calls would cost if you called to someone in America, plus there were fees for each local call you made and received. We just could not afford it. So, the military offered us MARS calls. You could go to the USO, put your name on the list, and when it was your turn, you got about a 5-to-10-minute call with someone on the line listening to everything you said because you would talk and the operator would have to flip a switch so the person on the other end could talk and you listen. You see, Scripture tells us that God knows the things we have need of before we ever ask Him for them. And because God’s ways and thoughts are not as ours, we must learn how to wait for Him. Most folks don’t know how to wait for the things that they have need of. They want it now because they have allowed the world to invade their safe space and tell them that they need it now. The writer of Hebrews tells us, “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) He said that God will come through for us, we just need to learn how to be patient and wait for Him to show up. Don’t lose heart your answer is on the way.

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

Thought For Today: “Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.” (Daniel 10:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 1

Overcoming Discouragement

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. O my God, my soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember thee from the land of Jordan, and of the Hermonites, from the hill Mizar. Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.” (Psalms 42:5-8)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about discouragement is it doesn’t just pop-up in your life and you don’t how to deal with it. Discouragement comes about because we allow many disappointments to take root in our life. Once you allow people to continuously disappoint you or misuse you, and you never cut them off, soon those disappointments are going to take root and then cause discouragement in your life; and eventually if this continues you will become stressed, weary, and lose hope.  Discouragement can also be caused by our own self expectations. When we set high standards for ourselves (and don’t get me wrong, we should have them) or we allow others to place high standards on us because that’s what they want, and we fail to meet those standards, we can become disappointed with ourselves, we can fear what others may think of us, and we start to see ourselves as failures. And this, too, can lead to discouragement. Discouragement can cause you physical and mental health if it is not crushed. Therefore, you must not allow those disappointments to take root in your life. You must crush them and get them out by the roots before they start to grow. 

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: “And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.” (Matthew 5:30)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 29

Don’t Forget God

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-13)

Today’s Morsel: Moses, on his reeducation of the new generation of the children of Israel, just prior to them entering the promise land, warned them not to forget God. He told them that once they came into the land and they began to obtain things that was not theirs before but are now theirs, that they must not forget God which had delivered them. I’m afraid, that this is what happens to many Christians today. When they first come into the church, they are excited about their new life and new way of living, but then over time they forget God, and start trying to make it on their own and start thinking that they don’t need God.  They start to think that it is through their own efforts that they have what they have.  But Psalmist enlightens us: “But as for me, my feet were almost gone; my steps had well-nigh slipped. For I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked… Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then understood I their end. Surely, thou didst set them in slippery places: thou castedst them down into destruction. How are they brought into desolation, as in a moment! they are utterly consumed with terrors.” (Psalms 73:2-3; 17-19) Let me encourage you. Don’t forget God. Whether your life is good or things aren’t going so well, don’t forget God. As Jesus said: “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” (John 15:4-5) We can’t do anything without Him. So, don’t forget Him.

Sing: Jesus hold my hand, Lord, I need Thee every hour. Through this pilgrim land protect me by Thy saving power. Hear my feeble plea, O Lord, look down on me; when I kneel in prayer, I hope to meet You there, blessed Jesus hold my hand.

Thought For Today:  “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.” (Deuteronomy 8:18-19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 28

Love Lifted Me

“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus.” (Ephesians 2:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: I often like to sit and reflect on where I was in my life before Jesus came into it and then I see where He has brought me from since He did. You see, no one can tell my story of salvation and deliverance like me. I know that if it had not been for Jesus and His love, I probably wouldn’t be here or be the person that I am today. I was sinking deep in sin. Daily my life was on a downhill spiral spinning out of control. Life was a ball of confusion, alcohol had me bound, and profanity controlled my lips. But God! But God who is rich in mercy, compassion, grace, and love, reached down and lifted me out of that muck and mire and set my feet upon a rock and reestablished my goings. And now I sing a brand-new song, it is amazing grace. I thank God that He lifted me. And He will lift you if you will let Him.

Sing: I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore. Very deeply stained within sinking to rise no more. But the Master of the sea, heard my despairing cry, and from the waters 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: “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.” (Romans 5:7-8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 27

With A Heart of Thanksgiving

“A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” (Psalms 100:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: The Psalmist calls for us to worship God with thanksgiving and praise, encouraging us to approach God with a joyful heart, recognizing His goodness and enduring love for us. We must come before Him with a heart full of gratitude for all of His previsions and blessing that He has bestowed on us. We should always have a song in our heart to express our praise, exaltation, and gratitude to Him. We must not allow situations, depression, anxiety, stress, or anything else to get into our heart that would block our thanksgiving and praise to Him. Today, we celebrate Thanksgiving. A time to remember what God has done for us. So let’s enter today into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise.

Sing: I will enter His gates with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter His courts with praise. I will say that this is the day that the Lord hath made, I will rejoice for He hath made me glad.

He hath made me glad, He hath made me glad, I will rejoice for He hath made me glad. He hath made me glad, He hath made me glad, I will rejoice for He hath made me glad. 

Thought For Today: Happy Thanksgiving!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 26

Thank God For The 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 9:19-22)

Today’s Morsel: When I first came into the church, there was not a service that someone did not sing a song about the blood of Jesus Christ. Someone would just start saying, “I know it was the blood, I know it was the blood, I know it was the blood that saved me; One day when I was lost Jesus died on the cross, and I know it was the blood that saved me.” Or someone would break out with Brother G.T. Haywood’s song, “I See a Crimson Stream of Blood.” It was all about the blood of Jesus Christ. The writer of Hebrews tells us that under the law, sins were forgiven and purged by the blood. That means that some animal, under the law, would have to shed his blood for the people’s sin. When God told Abraham to offer his son Isaac for a sacrifice, Abraham went to do what God told him to do. But when Isaac asked his father where the lamb was for the sacrifice, Abraham tells him that God would provide Himself a lamb. John writes: “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) Remember what Abraham said, God would provide Himself a lamb. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16). “And if ye call on the Father, who without respect of persons judgeth according to every man's work, pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:” (1 Peter 1:17-19) Have you been washed in the Blood of the Lamb? Your sins are only remitted by the Blood of Jesus Christ.

Sing: Are you washed in the blood, in the soul cleansing Blood of the Lamb? Are your garments spotless? Are they white as snow? Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb? 

Thought For Today: God will pass over you and not destroy you only if He sees the blood.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 25

Jesus Use Me

“In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts. Then flew one of the seraphims unto me, having a live coal in his hand, which he had taken with the tongs from off the altar: And he laid it upon my mouth, and said, Lo, this hath touched thy lips; and thine iniquity is taken away, and thy sin purged. Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me. And he said, Go, and tell this people, Hear ye indeed, but understand not; and see ye indeed, but perceive not. Make the heart of this people fat, and make their ears heavy, and shut their eyes; lest they see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and convert, and be healed. Then said I, Lord, how long? And he answered, Until the cities be wasted without inhabitant, and the houses without man, and the land be utterly desolate, And the LORD have removed men far away, and there be a great forsaking in the midst of the land. But yet in it shall be a tenth, and it shall return, and shall be eaten: as a teil tree, and as an oak, whose substance is in them, when they cast their leaves: so the holy seed shall be the substance thereof.” (Isaiah 6:1-13)

Today’s Morsel: What one area would you love for God to use you in? Do you know what will take you from being called by God to be chosen by God? It is the earnest of your preparation. If you prepare yourself, God will use you in more areas than you may think. If someone were to ask you why you chose the career path that you chose, what would you tell them? That career path that you chose can be used by you for God’s purpose and glory and for many other things. Isn’t it amazing that Isaiah received his calling at a funeral? By all accounts he was just observing the funeral of the king, and his eyes were opened, he gets a glimpse into heaven and is amazed at what he sees. He sees himself for who he is, a sinner, he hears the voice of God ask for someone to go for Him, and so he asked God to send him. And he is chosen by God to go. And His writing reveals more about Jesus Christ and His deity than any other book in the Bible.  All from just observing a funeral. Solomon states, “It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart. Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. The heart of the wise is in the house of mourning; but the heart of fools is in the house of mirth.” (Ecclesiastes 7:2-4) So, in all your studies and schooling, why not ask God how He would like to use you in what you are learning and studying to advance his kingdom. 

Sing: Dear Lord, I’ll be a witness, if you will help my weakness, I know that I’m not worthy, Lord of Thee. By eyes of faith, I see Thee; Upon the cross of Calvary; Dear Lord I cry, Let, me Thy servant be.

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

Thought For Today: If you don’t use your talents and abilities for Jesus, the world will kill you using them for it. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 24

Let’s Get Ready To Go

“And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight.” (Acts 20:7)

Today’s Morsel: When the children of Israel were told that they would be departing Egypt and coming out of bondage, they had to be ready to go. God told them that the death angel would pass through the land, destroy all the first born, and that Pharoah would command them to leave (my wording). They must be ready to go. Scripture said that Paul preached all night, ready to depart on tomorrow. I don’t know if this was his message title or not, but I think he was trying to warn them to be ready. What preparations are you making to be ready to go when Jesus comes? Like the children of Israel, they did not know when the time of their departure would be until Moses told them. None of us know when Jesus will come again for us. He just said, be ready for in such an hour as you think not the Son of man cometh. Now is not the time to waste on the things of this world or to be putting your stakes in too deep here. We ought to be getting ready to move to our new home and land. Have you obeyed Acts 2:38 and Hebrews 12:14? Now is not the time to waste. My message title today is this:  Let’s Get Ready To Go; my subtitle is, You don’t want to miss your flight!

Sing: Some glad morning, we shall see Jesus in the air; Coming after you and me, joy is ours to share. What rejoicing that will be when the saints shall rise; Headed for that Jubilee yonder in the skies.

O, what singing, O, what shouting, on that happy morning when we all shall rise. O, what glory, Hallelujah! When we meet our blessed Savior yonder in the skies.

Thought For Today: “But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” (Matthew 24:43-44)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 22

When Your Thanksgiving Finds Favor

“Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens: Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn. Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger?” (Ruth 2:8-10)

Today’s Morsel: Ruth’s humility before Boaz may have never entered her mind that it would lead her to marriage and being accepted by him. Ruth knew that she was an outsider, and she was just happy that the man allowed her to glean in his field. She may not have been looking for a husband in this land, as she probably knew that it was forbidden for a Jew to marry a Gentile. But her thankfulness caused her to find favor with Boaz. When he tells her not to glean in another field but to remain with his reapers, she is thankful. And when she asks him why she had found grace in his eyes, he tells her: “And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.” (Ruth 2:11-12) When we are thankful for what others do for us; it can cause us to find favor and open other doors of opportunity to us. Gratitude has a way of giving back more than we could have ever fathom.

Sing: The windows of heaven are open, God’s power is falling tonight, there’s joy, joy, joy in my heart, since Jesus made everything right. I gave Him my old-tattered garments, He gave me a robe of pure white; I’m feasting on manna from heaven, and that’s why I’m happy tonight.

Thought For Today: “Now God had brought Daniel into favour and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs.” (Daniel 1:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 21

Giving Thanks To God

“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:16-17)

Today’s Morsel: Paul’s instructions to the church is that everything we say that we are going to do, to do it all in the name of Lord Jesus, and to give thanks to God the Father through Him. A call to thank God is always appropriate. Paul also instructs us to let the word of Christ dwell in us with all wisdom, and that we should teach and admonish one another through psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in our heart to the Lord. God’s Word ought to be deeply rooted in our lives so that we know it and can use it to help others grow in Christ and be edified by it. And anytime we use it, we ought to be thankful, and to give thanks to the One who gave it to us, and for its use. A little appreciation to God for what He does for us could make the difference between being whole and being healed. Ask the ten lepers that Jesus healed. Only the Sarmatian came back to give Him thanks, and he was made completely whole.

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

Thought For Today: “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 3:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 20

Things Which We Ought To Know How To Do

“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

Today’s Morsel: Jesus said that when the Holy Ghost comes, it would lead us unto all truth. That being the case, then there are a lot of things we ought to know how to do. Let me share with you a few things:

1.    We ought to know how to love one another.

2.   We ought to know how to treat each other.

3.    We ought to know how to forgive each other.

4.   We ought to know how to worship God.

5.    We ought to know how to act, dress, and look.

6.   We ought to know how to be at church on time and help lead others to Christ.

7.    We ought to know how to be content with what we have and who we are.

8.   We ought to know when to speak and when to keep silent.

9.   We ought to know who to confide in and who not to confide in.

10. We ought to know who Christ is and where He fits into our lives.

Paul said that he knew how to be abase and how to abound and that he could do all things through Christ who strengthen him. So, what is hindering you from doing all things through Him?

Sing: Would you do service for Jesus your King? There’s power in the blood, power in the blood. Would you live daily His praises to sing? There’s wonderful power in the blood.

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: “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)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 19

Right Living

“Whosoever committeth sin transgresseth also the law: for sin is the transgression of the law. And ye know that he was manifested to take away our sins; and in him is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God.” (1 John 3:4-9)

Today’s Morsel: Sin seems to be picking up speed faster than ever. Even the churches seem to be getting caught up in the world and its ways. Sins are taking the young and not so young at its will. Many have allowed sin to take them at will and now they are not able to flee. And those who do flee have made themselves a prey. John cautions and reminds us that if we say that we know Christ and are in Christ, then we should not be sinning. Our lives ought to reflect His righteousness. When the church continues to tell people that no one is prefect, it causes them to stop trying to avoid sin in their life. When Cain’s offering was rejected by the Lord, he did not do what was right. The Lord didn’t tell him, “That’s alright Cain, everyone sins, and you’ll get it right next time.” No! The Lord told him, “If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.” (Genesis 4:7) Notice what God told Cain, if he does well or what is right, he will be accepted. But if not, sin is right there at his door to pounce on him. But Cain needed to rule over sin and not allow sin to rule over him. And the only way he was going to do that was by righteous living. The only way you will keep sin out is to keep Jesus in and do what is right always. We must move on to perfection.  

Sing: Who is this who loves a sinner as a father loves his own, grieving over those who spurn His gentle plea? Always ready to forgive them and to make forgiveness known; Who is this forever calling you and me? 

It is Jesus! Jesus! Sad one weep no more! He will heal the brokenhearted, opened wide the prison door, He is able to deliver evermore.

Thought For Today: “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin.” (Romans 6:6)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 18

Now Faith

“And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:35-41)

Today’s Morsel: Is the church beginning to lose her teaching about faith because she doesn’t see the miracles which were spoken by Christ in Scripture? Are people losing their trust and confidence in God because they don’t have the patience to wait for God to provide them with the things that are needed? Is faith losing it power because man is not content nor satisfied with who they are and what they have? Is the church losing her ability to be content for the faith which was once delivered to the church? Are those who say that they are born-again losing their faith in God? In today’s scriptures, we see that Jesus rebuked His disciples for a lack of faith. Why were they fearful of the storm and dying when Jesus was onboard with them? Should they not have been at peace with themselves? Had they not seen the miraculous things which Christ had already done before them? Did they not know who He was? Faith is not seeing only. Faith is the hope of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).  Paul said,“For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God. 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 8:24-28) He said we are saved by hope, but do we have the faith to wait for it? It’s going to take faith for you to make it to heaven. Don’t think it’s a quick race. Jesus said that He that endures to the end shall be saved. Your ability to keep trusting Him in times of trial and difficulties will increase your faith and bring you to that perfect place of rest.

Sing: I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and; over and over again. I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and; over and over again. He gets sweeter and sweeter as the days go by, oh what a love between my Lord and I. I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and; over and over again.

Thought For Today: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:17)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 17

Do You Believe That He Is Precious?

“Wherefore also it is contained in the scripture, Behold, I lay in Sion a chief corner stone, elect, precious: and he that believeth on him shall not be confounded. Unto you therefore which believe he is precious: but unto them which be disobedient, the stone which the builders disallowed, the same is made the head of the corner, And a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed.” (1 Peter 2:6-8)

Today’ Morsel: Do you remember the song that we use to sang entitled, “What do you think about Jesus? And we would shout, He’s alright.” Why did we see Jesus as just being alright and not as Peter saw Him? Precious! Did we think that Jesus was just okay only? Peter said that He is precious and unto us who believe that He is precious, we ought not to be confounded or confused about who He is. For those of us who believe that He is precious, He becomes a spiritual house to which we can build upon. But those who do not see Him as such, He becomes a stumbling block and a rock of offense. For us, He is honorable and highly esteemed before others. Peter relates Jesus to a precious stone or gem. And he says that, if so be that we have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, we also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:3-5). If he is precious to us, then let’s start acting like it when we hear His name.  

Sing: For He's more wonderful than my mind can conceive; He's more wonderful than my heart can believe. He goes beyond my highest hopes and fondest dreams; He's everything that my soul ever longed for, Everything He's promised and so much more. More than amazing, more than marvelous,; More than miraculous could ever be. He's more than wonderful, that's what Jesus is to me.

Thought For Today: “To whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be like?” (Isaiah 46:5)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 15

Give Thanks

“In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Today’s Morsel: Gratitude must always be the Christian’s attitude. Are you thankful? Are you content with the things that you have and where you are? If we are not careful, we can start to compare ourselves among ourselves and lose our gratitude. You see, when I think that what I have is not as good as what you have, I can lose my gratitude. When I think that you live in a better home than I do, or drive a better car than I do, or dress better than I do, or that your children are better than my children, or that your church is bigger and better than my church, I can lose my gratitude. Paul states, “For we dare not make ourselves of the number or compare ourselves with some that commend themselves: but they measuring themselves by themselves, and comparing themselves among themselves, are not wise.” (2 Corinthians 10:12) comparing ourselves with others is not a wise thing to do because we will always think that others are better than we. Paul again states: “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” (1 Timothy 6:6-8) God knows what He’s given you. But if you are not thankful and content with that which He’s given you, you may never get what He has for you.  If gratitude isn’t your attitude, then you have not learned Christ.

Sing: Thank You, Jesus, for the Blood applied. Thank You, Jesus, You have washed me white. Thank You Jesus, You have saved my life. Brought me from the darkness into glorious light.

 Thought For Today: “By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.” (Hebrews 13:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 14

Putting To Silence The Foolishness Of Ignorant Men

“Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men:” (1 Peter 2:13-15)

Today’s Morsel: We often see in Peter’s writings a call for submission. He tells us to submit to each other. To submit to those in authority, and to every ordinance of man, and to Christ. He tells us that we should live and conduct ourselves in such a way that it is well pleasing to God. Our actions and conduct ought to be good examples before others. There are many people who lack the knowledge and understanding of God. This is why our lives must be lived out before them that they may see our good works and glorify our Father in heaven. There are many people who reject Christ, because they just don’t know. Paul states: “But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” (2 Corinthians 4:3-4) Satan has people blinded to truth, and this is why we must shine before them. And by our submission and doing those things which are well-pleasing to God, we can hopefully silence the foolishness of ignorant men and bring them out of darkness unto His marvelous light. 

Sing: By God’s word at last my sins I learned; then I trembled at the law I’d spurned. Till my guilty soul imploring turned to Calvary.

Mercy there was great, and grace was free. Pardon there was multiplied to me. There my burden soul found liberty, at Calvary.

Thought For Today: “Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.” (Acts 4:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 13

Children of God

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” (1 John 3:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: Do you know what a privilege it is to be called God’s children? Just think about it for a moment. If you have been born-again of the water and the Spirit, the God of all creation is your Heavenly Father, and that make you heirs of God and Christ. Everything that God has, you have access to it. This is why I don’t understand why some of His children live below their privileges. When we read the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, the story tells us of the son, “And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger!” (Luke 15:17) Notice, he knew what his father had and there was no need for him to be in the place and condition that he was in. He just needed to go home to his father. Why are you still living in the condition and going through the things that you are going through? You, too, can come home. You don’t have to keep living in depression, hopelessness, and despair. Get up and go home. The Father is waiting on you to come home.  He has all you need.

Sing: Come to Jesus, come to Jesus, come to Jesus, just now; Come to Jesus, come to Jesus, come to Jesus, just now.

Thought For Today: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 12

Why Callest Thou Me Good?

“And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.” (Matthew 19:16-17)

Today’s Morsel: I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “I know that you think you heard what I said, but I don’t think that you understood what I meant.”  And this is often true in many situations. We see this a lot with Jesus’ teachings and the writings of the apostles in scripture. Yes, every word of God is true, but as Jesus said, “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (John 5:39) Paul told Timothy:“Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” (2 Timothy 2:15) Remember, Isaiah said, precept upon precept, line upon line, here a little and there a little. One scripture may not give you the full meaning of what the writer meant. Therefore, you may need to search the scriptures for a more complete understanding of what is meant. When Jesus asks the rich young ruler why he had called Him good, and said that only one is good, that is God. I don’t think that Jesus was saying to the young man that He was not God. I think Jesus was asking him where he got the revelation to call him such, since only God is good. Did the young man receive revelation as Peter did and knew who Jesus was? Had the young man observed Christ and knew that only God could do things which Jesus did? Since he seems to know the commandments, he knew that Jesus’ teachings were true, did he want to ensure he was complete in his thinking and actions? Why do you sing that Jesus is a good, good father, if only God is good?  “Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am.” (John 13:13) Why do you call Him Good?

Sing: For He is Lord, He is Lord, He has risen from the dead, and He is Lord. Every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Thought For Today: “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 11

Lest We Forget

“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. And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David, when they defied the Philistines that were there gathered together to battle, and the men of Israel were gone away: He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clave unto the sword: and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil. And after him was Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. And the Philistines were gathered together into a troop, where was a piece of ground full of lentiles: and the people fled from the Philistines. But he stood in the midst of the ground, and defended it, and slew the Philistines: and the LORD wrought a great victory. And three of the thirty chief went down, and came to David in the harvest time unto the cave of Adullam: and the troop of the Philistines pitched in the valley of Rephaim. And David was then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Bethlehem. And David longed, and said, Oh that one would give me drink of the water of the well of Bethlehem, which is by the gate! And the three mighty men brake through the host of the Philistines, and drew water out of the well of Bethlehem, that was by the gate, and took it, and brought it to David: nevertheless he would not drink thereof, but poured it out unto the LORD. And he said, Be it far from me, O LORD, that I should do this: is not this the blood of the men that went in jeopardy of their lives? therefore he would not drink it. These things did these three mighty men. And Abishai, the brother of Joab, the son of Zeruiah, was chief among three. And he lifted up his spear against three hundred, and slew them, and had the name among three. Was he not most honourable of three? therefore he was their captain: howbeit he attained not unto the first three. 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: And he slew an Egyptian, a goodly man: and the Egyptian had a spear in his hand; but he went down to him with a staff, and plucked the spear out of the Egyptian's hand, and slew him with his own spear. These things did Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, and had the name among three mighty men. He was more honourable than the thirty, but he attained not to the first three. And David set him over his guard.” (2 Samuel 23:8-23)

Today’s Morsel: Veterans know better than anyone else the price of freedom, for they've suffered the scars of war. We can offer them no better tribute than to protect what they have won for us.” - President Ronald Reagan, 1983, in a radio address to the nation.

All our veterans have protected our democracy, our freedom, our way of life. Today, we honor and thank them. And tomorrow, we must continue to honor them. They have given us the chance to live in freedom today and an opportunity to look forward to tomorrow. We honor those who have served this great nation through sacrifice, time, efforts, energy, and who have made life better for us and our allies as well. The men and women across the globe today who have worn the uniform of this great nation are not looking for handouts. They are not looking for accolades. They are not looking for recognition. They just wanted to serve their country. They just wanted to make the lives of others and this nation a better place for all. Each of them has their own story. Each of them can share with you a time of joy, pain, loneliness, and defeat. Therefore, we must never forget what they have done for us. So, today, if you encounter a veteran, tell them thanks for their service. Veterans, I salute you.  Thank you for your service and sacrifice.  

Sing: Glory, glory, hallelujah; Glory, glory, hallelujah; Glory, hallelujah, His truth is marching on.

Thought For Today: Don’t take your freedom for granted.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 10

Apostolic Doctrine

“For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. Whosoever transgresseth, and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, hath not God. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son. If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed: For he that biddeth him God speed is partaker of his evil deeds.” (2 John 1:7-11)

Today’s Morsel: True Christianity does not exist without true apostolic doctrine. If the teaching of any church is not in line with what the apostles of Jesus taught in their letters written to the church and the gospel of Jesus Christ, they are not abiding in the doctrine. The church’s goal is not to be political or siding with one race over another. The church’s goal is to preach the word of God and to lead all people to Christ. The church must not be biased or prejudiced against any. Someone said that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. led the march across America against segregation, and yet many of the churches in America are still segregated. And I believe the reason is that people do not know and understand the apostolic doctrine. They have wrapped themselves in the tradition of man.  The apostolic doctrine destroyed race bearers, ushered in Christ’s love and salvation, and lead us to work in unity and harmony to destroy racism and Satan’s kingdom. James tells us in his apostolic teaching: “If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.” (James 2:8-9). What a shame for a Christian to be called a sinner. “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:31-32) The truth shall make you free. But if you have respect of persons, you are in bondage to sin and that sin will lead to death. Don’t let the media poison your mind. Stay in the word of God. 

Sing: I’m gonna take a trip, on that good old gospel ship, and go sailing beyond the blue; I’m gonna shout and sing, until the heaven’s ring when I bid this world goodbye.

Thought For Today: “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 4:4-6)