Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 30

Failing Hearts

“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:25-28)

Today’s Morsel: The coming of the Lord has confounded the minds of many. Many have been troubled lately about what they are seeing taking place on the earth. Jesus said prior to His coming, there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Notice, He said that men’s hearts would fail them because of fear. Paul told Timothy: “When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also. 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. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:5-7) He said that God didn’t give him the spirit of fear. Did you catch that? Fear is a spirit. It’s a spirit of the evil one. It is a spirit from the pits of hell to cause you anxiety, apprehension, alarm, panic, to distress you, terrorize you, and to distress you. If the devil can get into your head, he’s going to drive your off the cliff. But notice what Jesus said. Their hearts would fail them for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. Let me encourage you. Get your eyes off what is happening in the world and keep them on Jesus, as that is where your peace and contentment comes from.

Sing: Peace, peace, wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above. Sweep over my spirit forever I pray, in fathomless billows of love.

Thought For Today: “And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming.” (1 John 2:28)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 29

What Spirit Are You Of?

“And it came to pass, when the time was come that he should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem, And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him. And they did not receive him, because his face was as though he would go to Jerusalem. And when his disciples James and John saw this, they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And they went to another village.” (Luke 9:51-56)

Today’s Morsel: One of the first lessons we must understand when we become Christians is that God’s ways are not our ways. Jesus said that He did not come to destroy men’s lives but to save them. Sometime folks will get under your skin to where you would like to help them to gain eternity faster, but we cannot allow our flesh to push us in that direction to where we help them reach that destination. We must put on the new man, which after Christ is created in righteousness and true holiness. Like James and John, as Christians, when people reject the gospel, which is them rejecting Jesus Christ, we may be tempted to request for bad things to happen to them. But that is not Jesus’ way. His ways and thoughts are so much higher. The Spirit that we now possess is that Spirit that still shows them love and compassion, and one that will pray for the eyes of their understanding to be opened that they can see and understand the truth so that they might be saved. Do you know what spirit you are of? Don’t let Satan deceive you into thinking that his way is better. 

Sing: Holy Spirit You are welcome here, come flood this place fill the atmosphere. Your Glory Lord is what our hearts long for, to be overcome by Your presence Lord.

Thought For Today: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 28

Get It Settled In Your Heart

“Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven. But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake. And it shall turn to you for a testimony. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:” (Luke 21:10-14)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things we are told that will happen prior to the coming of the Lord is that there will be a great falling away. Many people will quit serving God and go after other things and even back into the world. They are going to lose focus on their ministry, calling, and even brotherly kindness and love. Paul even informs us of the last days in this way: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7) You have got to get it settled in your mind right now that you will not backslide and go back to your old way of life. You must not allow Satan to deceive you as he did Eve in the garden, making you to think that you are missing out on something. Believe me, hell is a poor substitute for eternal life.

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

Thought For Today: “But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.” (2 Peter 3:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 27

Patience

“In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21:19)

Today’s Morsel: How many times have you heard that patience is a virtue? While virtues are behaviors that shows high moral standards or qualities that contribute to a good character and a wholesome lifestyle, ‘Patience’ is our ability to wait, endure, and remain calm and unruffled in difficult situations and circumstances. Jesus said that patience must be possessed in our lives if we desire to maintain our souls (my wording). Because things aren’t usually done on our timeline, and trials and troubles will come while we are on this Christian journey, we will need patience to help us remain calm and unruffled while we wait for Jesus to work on our behalf and deliver us from what we may be facing and going through.  So yes, we may just possess our souls in our patience.  

Sing: Walk with me Lord, walk with me. Walk with me Lord, walk with me. While I’m on this, tedious journey, I want Jesus to walk with me. Be my guide Lord, be my guide.  Be my guide Lord, be my guide.  While I’m on this, tedious journey, I want Jesus to be my guide.

Thought For Today: “But 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; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 25

What Is God Doing With Your Hands

“And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them.” (Acts 19:11-12)

Today’s Morsel: Since Covid, some folks are even afraid to shake hands with people. Everywhere we turn we see hand sanitizer, signs saying wash your hands, put your hands over your mouth when you cough or sneeze. But what do you do if they do that just before you walk up and then they want to shake your hand? (Humor) Scriptures said that the Lord worked special miracles by the hands of Paul. What is God doing with your hands? Is He working special miracles by your hands.  “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” (Mark 16:15-18) If you never put your hand out and take someone else’s, or you never lay your hands on the sick and pray for them, or you never offer a hand to someone in need, or you never put your hand to the plough, or you never shake someone’s hand, you may never see the special miracles you want to see God work in your life. God will work if we get self out of the way. 

Sing: Take my hand precious Lord, lead me on let me stand; I am tired, I am weak, I am worn. Through the storm, through the night, lead me on to the light;, take my hand, precious Lord and lead me home. 

Thought For Today: “Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength.” (Acts 3:6-7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 24

Remember Lot’s Wife

“And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said, The kingdom of God cometh not with observation…Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed. In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away: and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back. Remember Lot's wife.” (Luke 17:20, 28-32)

Today’s Morsel: I think folks are thinking that Jesus’ coming will be with observation. Peter informed us, “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished: But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men.” (2 Peter 3:3-7) Jesus said, that as it was in the day of Lot inside Sodom, they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven and destroyed them all. And then He makes this profound statement. Remember Lot’s wife. We all know that she looked back after they were told to not look back, and she became a pillar of salt. The warning is to you and me. We don’t know when Jesus is coming again. This is why we must not look back to the world. We must keep pressing forward for the prize of the high calling of God. Heaven for us might be just around the corner. Those five foolish virgins missed the bridegroom because they went back to get more oil. But if you keep looking forward, I promise you, you will never run out of oil for your lamp.

Sing: I’m pressing on the upward way, new heights I’m gaining every day; Still praying as I’m onward bound, “Lord plant my feet on higher ground.” Lord, lift me up and let me stand, by faith on Heaven’s table land, A higher plane than I have found, Lord plant my feet on higher ground. 

Thought For Today: “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 23

The Disciple Is Not Above His Master

“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.” (John 15:20)

Today’s Morsel: I don’t understand why some folks think that just because they are chosen to lead, that they are greater than others. Some of them even think that not even Jesus can tell them what to do. You may say, ‘How so?’ Well, how many folks do you know that are not willing to forgive others? Jesus always put the onus on the one who thinks that they are right to go and ask for forgiveness from the one who did them wrong. I don’t know about you, but the thought of hell isn’t too pleasing to me. How many folks do you know that say one thing and do another? What about those who make a vow and don’t keep it? You see, when we don’t take God’s word at face value, we are exalting ourselves above Him. Scripture tells us that He has exalted His Word even above His name (Psalms 138:2). If we think His name is important, where ought we to put His Word. You see, Jesus wants us to be doers of the Word, not just hearers of His Word. He said that the servant is not greater than his lord. Jesus carried out His Father’s Word before us, and He expects us to do likewise. 

Sing: Let me walk blessed Lord; in the way Thou has gone, leading straight to 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: “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” (John 13:34)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 22

Do You Need A Doctor?

“And Jesus answering said unto them, They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” (Luke 5:31-32)

Today’s Morsel: I am amazed at the number of people that I see at the medical facilities. When I go in for my annual check-up, my doctor always schedules me for the next one a year out. I ask her why. She says because there are so many people in the system, that they don’t know if they will have any appointments left if I wait. I said to myself, What is going on? Why are there so many people needing doctors? Have we lost our trust in Jesus? Do we no longer believe that Jesus has the power to heal? Are we all getting to a point that we are afraid to die? Have we all put our stakes down here in this world, and now we don’t want to take them up to leave? Jesus said that it is not the whole that need a doctor, it is the sick. Why aren’t born again believers whole? Why aren’t folks complete in Christ? Why don’t they trust Him to fulfill His word. Doesn’t James tell us, “Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” (James 5:14-15). We must follow God’s word and pattern if we want to be made whole, or we will find ourselves on the roller coaster of medical facilities and medications. Turn to Jesus and trust Him first, before you turn to the ways of man. 

Sing: He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities, surely, He bought all our sorrows, and by His stripes we are healed. 

Thought For Today: “Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?” (Jeremiah 8:22)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 21

The Lord of The Sabbath

“And he said unto them, The sabbath was made for man, and not man for the sabbath: Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.” (Mark 2:27-28)

Today’s Morsel: The Sabbath day was to be a day of rest. Man wasn’t supposed to work. It was to be a day of rest. But man changed it and now we see that many are distressed, stressed, oppressed, hopeless, and with low self-esteem. They are always tired and worn. Jesus told His disciples to come apart and rest awhile. Jesus said that the sabbath was made for man, not man for the sabbath. The rest was made for man, not man for the rest. Jesus Christ is Lord of the Sabbath. That means that our rest is found in Him. It’s not a day that we rest, it is Who we find our rest in. Paul informed the church at Colossi, “Let no man therefore judge you in meat, or in drink, or in respect of an holyday, or of the new moon, or of the sabbath days: Which are a shadow of things to come; but the body is of Christ.” (Colossians 2:16-17) He said that the Sabbath was a shadow of things to come. What was this shadow? The sabbath was a fore shadow of the rest we find in the Holy Ghost. “For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.” (Isaiah 28:11-12) There is no rest without the Holy Ghost in your life. We don’t find rest in the day; we find rest in the One who made the day. Jesus Christ!

Sing: Peace, peace, wonderful peace coming down from the father above. Sweep over my spirit, forever I pray; in fathomless billows of love. 

Thought For Today: “And Jesus answering spake unto the lawyers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to heal on the sabbath day?” (Luke 14:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 20

Wrong Place Right Time

“And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to crucify him. And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by, coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus, to bear his cross.” (Mark 15:20-21)

Today’s Morsel: Sometimes in life, people have found themselves in the wrong place but at the right time. There have been many lives saved because someone was in the wrong place but there in the right moment of time. Simon of Cyrene by all accounts found himself in the wrong place. Scripture says that he was just passing by, coming out of the country. He probably didn’t want to have anything to do with what the Roman soldiers were doing to Jesus. But they compelled him to bear Jesus’ cross. We don’t know how heavy this cross was. But Simon, who must have been a man who presented himself as having great strength, was coming out of the country. Wrong place, but right time. Simon represents to us what Jesus meant when scripture says, “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23) Simon had to deny himself in order to bear Jesus’ cross. Just think of the amount of royal blood that was splattered upon him. Just think of going down in history as the one who was made to carry the cross of Christ. And because he was at the wrong place but at the right time, his son Rufus would become a follower of Jesus Christ (Romans 16:13)

Sing: At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away, it was there by faith, I received my sight, and now I am happy all the day.

Thought For Today: “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)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 18

The Right Hand of Power

“But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed? And Jesus said, I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.” (Mark 14:61-62)

Today’s Morsel: Abraham Lincoln states, “If you want to see the character of a man, give him power.” David said, “God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.” (Psalms 62:11) Jesus said, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” (Matthew 28:18) When we understand who Jesus Christ is, then we can understand what scripture means when it says that He is seated on the right hand of power. In the military, the senior person always walks or sits to the right. When John gets a glimpse into heaven, and he writes the book of Revelations, he states that it is a revelation of Jesus Christ. He says, “And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne.” (Revelation 4:2) He does not see the Father in the middle of the throne, Jesus standing at his right hand, nor the Holy Ghost on his left. He sees one sitting on the throne, because God will not share His glory with another. Paul informs us: “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)

Sing: There is power in the name of Jesus; there is power in the name of Jesus, to break every chain, break every chain, break every chain.

Thought For Today: “Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God.” (Isaiah 43:10-12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 17

Where Is Jesus In Your Life?

“He must increase, but I must decrease.” (John 3:30)

Today’s Morsel: John the Baptist enlightens us on where Jesus must be in our lives. He said that we must decrease so that Jesus can increase in our lives. Humility and submission must become our traits of character that others must now see in us. Jesus must have preeminence in our lives and over everything that we do. He’s not about to share His glory with another. Therefore, we must humble ourselves and allow Him to reign supreme over everything that we are and ever hope to be. 

Sing: Number one, Jesus is number one; Number one, Jesus is number one; Number one, Jesus is number one; Number one, Jesus is number one. 

Thought For Today: “And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead; that in all things he might have the preeminence.” (Colossians 1:18)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 16

Why Are You Worshipping Where You Are Worshipping?

“Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.” (John 4:20-26)

Today’s Morsel: Jesus’ conversation with the woman at the well seems to transition from talking about living water and her husband to worship. We don’t read anything from John about their discussion about worship prior to the woman bringing it up. The woman tells Jesus that He said that in Jerusalem is the place that they ought to worship, but that their fathers worshipped in that mountain. You see, there were high places chosen by their fathers to worship God and even false gods. Even though in some cases it was mixed with idol worship, they often chose the high places, which, in some cases, would be the mountains. As we read in scripture that some kings, even though they did the right things before God, they did not remove the high places of worship. They still allowed the people to worship wherever they wished to.  Jesus saith unto her, ‘Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.’ Jesus tells us that she doesn’t know what she is worshipping. By following how their fathers worshipped, they were more than likely worshipping idols. Like so many, they have no clue what they are worshipping. Some of them were worshipping a multiplicity of gods. While others, worshipped they know not what. The first commandment was, “I am the LORD thy God, which have brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage. Thou shalt have no other gods before me. Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth: Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.” (Exodus 20:2-6) If one is not worshipping Jesus, they don’t know who they are worshipping, because neither is their salvation in any other. 

Sing: I worship You, Almighty God, there is none like You. I worship You, O’ Prince of Peace, that is what I long to do. I give you praise, for You are my righteousness. I worship You, Almighty God, there is none like You.

Thought For Today: But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 15

Obedience

“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” (1 Samuel 15:22-23)

Today’s Morsel: I often wonder why certain folks who say that they are Christians have such a hard time with obedience. Especially to God’s word. I hear politicians who say that they are Christians, but the foul language which flows from their mouths speaks otherwise. Foul language and its usage are a sign of disobedience, and a lack of self-discipline. Paul said that we must be ready to revenge all disobedience when our obedience is fulfilled. James tells us: “Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.” (James 3:3) The psalmist tells us not to be as the horse and the mule which have no understanding (Psalms 32:9). Obedience is key to a well-disciplined lifestyle. The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.” (Hebrews 13:17). It never ceases to amaze me that some in the church will not obey their pastor, but will go to their secular job and obey everything their supervisors and bosses, who are not Christians, tell them to do. And in some cases, they even work in fear under them doing it. But the man of God, who must watch for their soul, they reject and shun him every time, not giving him any obedience. As James said, My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Obedience is better than sacrifice. Saul lost his kingdom because he failed to obey. So I caution you, don’t lose yours.

Sing: Hold to God’s unchanging hand, Hold to God’s unchanging hand. Build your hopes on things eternal; hold to God’s unchanging hand.

Thought For Today: Disobedience never rewards you good.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 14

It Starts Right Here, Right Now

“And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:15)

Today’s Morsel: Joshua called for the people to make an immediate decision whether they were going to serve God or not. He did not tell them to go and pray about, think about, ponder on it, and then come back tomorrow with an answer. He told them choose you this day. He said it starts right here right now. Are you going to serve the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell. He said, just so that you know, I have already made up my mind for me and my family. We are going to serve the Lord. Elijah even asks the people: “And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, how long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.” (1 Kings 18:21) You must choose whom you are going to serve and become committed and dedicate to Him. Jesus said “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24).Today, the ball falls in your court. Who are you going to serve?

Sing: Jesus is all the world to me, I want no better friend, I trust Him now, I’ll trust Him when Life’s fleeting days shall end. Beautiful life with such a friend, beautiful life that has no end. Eternal life, eternal joy, He’s my friend.

Thought For Today: “And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 13

My Blessing Is Coming My Way

“Then I will command my blessing upon you in the sixth year, and it shall bring forth fruit for three years.” (Leviticus 25:21)

Today’s Morsel: God is in the blessing business. We read about God’s blessings. We hear songs about God’s blessings. We hear sermons about God’s blessings. But folks’ lives do not portray that they are blessed, and many do not think that they are blessed. A blessed life is one filled with God’s favor and protection. When the Lord told Israel that they were to let the land rest on the seventh year, they began to worry about what they would eat during that year. The Lord told them if they were obedient, that His blessings would come upon them in the sixth year and it would bring forth fruit for three years. What a promise. God said, Don’t worry about the one year that I’m telling you not to plant, just be obedient and I am going to send my blessing upon you and it’s going to be enough to last you for three years. As He spoke through the Prophet Malachi, “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.” (Malachi 3:10) God said if you bring your tithe into the storehouse, I will pour you out a bless that you will not have room enough to receive it.  Your blessings will only come your way when you obey God and His word and do what He asks of you to do.

Sing: My blessing is coming my way, it’s only a matter of time, until His purpose comes to pass, it’s only a matter of time. I’m waiting for my miracle; I’m waiting for my miracle; overtaken by a blessing.

Thought For Today: God only pours out His blessings to the obedient. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 11

I Can Face Tomorrow

“Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:34)

Today’s Morsel: Some folks live their entire life worrying about tomorrow. “Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:34) Jesus said, “Don’t worry about tomorrow, tomorrow will worry about itself.” Each day has enough troubles of its own. And so, He encourages us to avoid anxiety about the future and keep our focus on Him. Again, Jesus tells us: “Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:25-33) You can face tomorrow, just don’t worry about what it may bring. 

Sing: I know the Lord will make a way for me. I know the Lord will make a way for me. If I live a holy life, shun the wrong and do the right, I know the Lord will make a way for me. 

Thought For Today: “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 10

God’s Got You

“Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.” (Psalms 136:23-26)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things I find in the reciprocation of God’s goodness is that if you remember Him, He will remember you. If you reject Him, He will reject you. The Psalmist tells us that because of God’s mercy, which endures forever, that even in our lowest estate, God will remember us. In our times of hardship and oppression, His mercy endures. This whole passage shows you and I how faithful God truly is to us because of His mercy. If you are His sons and daughters, you have nothing to worry about. He can’t run out of His mercy. As He spoke to Isaiah: “For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer. For this is as the waters of Noah unto me: for as I have sworn that the waters of Noah should no more go over the earth; so have I sworn that I would not be wroth with thee, nor rebuke thee. For the mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but my kindness shall not depart from thee, neither shall the covenant of my peace be removed, saith the LORD that hath mercy on thee.” (Isaiah 54:7-10) His kindness and peace aren’t going anywhere. God’s got you. So don’t sweat the small stuff.

Sing: Year’s 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; and there my burden soul found liberty at Calvary.  

Thought For Today: “Behold, they shall surely gather together, but not by me: whosoever shall gather together against thee shall fall for thy sake.” (Isaiah 54:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 9

Don’t Fear Trouble

“Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.” (Psalms 138:7)

Today’s Morsel: David was a man that knew God’s word was true and that God would not fail him. When he faced Goliath in the valley of Elah, David knew that he was not going to face him in his own strength and power, he knew that he was going to face him in the name of the Lord. I think that this may be why David wrote in Psalms 23, “That even in the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.” I also think that David was aware of the suffering and troubles of Job. And like Job, he knew that God would come through for him. David said, “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me.” No matter where we find ourselves, in trouble, trials, or afflictions, God is as close as the mention of His name, and He will be with us and save us. 

Sing: Trials dark on every hand and we cannot understand all the way that God will lead us to that blessed promised land, but He’ll guide us with His eye, and we’ll follow till we die. We will understand it better by and by.

By and by, when the morning comes, and all the saints of God gathering home. We will tell the story how we’ve overcome; and we’ll understand it better by and by.

Thought For Today: “For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.” (Psalms 27:5-6)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 8

Now Hiring

“Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” (Matthew 9:37-38)

Today’s Morsel: Everywhere I go these days I see signs that says, ‘Now Hiring’. I can’t ever remember signs saying, ‘Now Hiring’ when I was a kid. We had to go out and look for work. And we usually took anything we could find. We picked cucumbers, strawberries, blueberries, tobacco, corn, and again taking any work we could find. Long hours, shift hours. Just trying to get funds to make ends meet. 

Jesus even tells the parable of the husbandman who went out looking for laborers until the eleventh hour, because he wanted to get his harvest in (Matthew 20). And in today’s parable, He told His disciples to pray to the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth labors into His harvest. You would think that everyone would be running to work for the Lord in His harvest; especially, those who say that they are born-again. But usually all we hear are folks telling us how they are busy and how tired they are. And when you ask them what they are busying and tired from doing, they don’t know.  Jesus should not have to put out a sign that He is hiring labors. The fields ought to be filled with believers willing to labor because of what He has already done for us.

Sing: Jesus use me, oh 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: Working for Jesus might not pay much, but the retirement benefits are out of this world.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 7

Faith Comes By Hearing

“But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report? So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Romans 10:16-17)

Today’s Morsel: Scripture tells us that without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6). Paul understood this, and so he tells us how to build our faith. He said that it comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. The more we hear and read God’s word, it should keep igniting the flame inside of us and keep us burning bright. The more of God’s word which is inside of you, the brighter your countenance, and outward demeanor ought to be. Your faith ought to be running off the charts, because you have said that you love God and His ways. It’s an oxymoron when people say that they are Christians but never go to church or read their Bible. Don’t fall into that category. You can’t make it without faith.

Sing: Faith can move mountains, mountains of fear and of doubt. Faith can move mountains, so why don’t you try your faith out.

Thought for Today: “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 6

The Enemy of God

“For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.” (Romans 8:6-8)

Today’s Morsel: What does it mean to have a carnal mind. It means to focus one’s efforts and life on fleshly, sinful, and worldly ways. Paul lets us know that if we focus our thoughts and desires on worldly, sinful things, it will lead us to death and be spiritually separated from God. But if we focus our thoughts and actions on God and His ways, it will lead us to eternal life and peace. If we have a carnal attitude and carnal actions, it will make us the enemy of God. As Paul informs us, corruption cannot inherit incorruption, nor mortal, immortality. Don’t think that you can take a corrupt life into heaven. It’s not going to go in there. Only incorruption will make it through those gates. As the Lord spoke to us through the Prophet Isaiah: “Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; Learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow. Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 1:16-20)You don’t want to be an enemy of God. You want to be a friend of God, as that is what He calls us. 

Sing: I am a friend of God, I am a friend of God, I am a friend of God, He calls me friend.

Thought For Today: Don’t make yourself an enemy of God, you will lose.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 4

Have You Received The Holy Ghost Since You Have Believed?

“And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied. And all the men were about twelve.” (Acts 19:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: The receiving of the gift of the Holy Ghost is the most important thing about being a Christian that you can receive. There are many who love the Lord, serve the Lord, and do their very best to live as His word says, but they are doing it all in their own strength and power, because they have never received the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost is a free gift from God. And yes, it is for everyone. But because some folks have been taught and told that it’s not for everyone, many have believed this lie from hell, and they have never received it nor sought for it. God said through the prophet Joel, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: And also upon the servants and upon the handmaids in those days will I pour out my spirit.” (Joel 2:28-29) After the 120 in the upper room in Acts chapters 1-2, received the Holy Ghost, the Bible said that they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak in tongues as the Spirit gave them the utterance. Speaking in tongues is your initial evidence that you have received the Holy Ghost. Jesus said, “See that no man deceives you.” God has not put anything in His word that is not for our learning and application for our life. So, if you have never received the Holy Ghost in your life, I encourage you to read Acts chapter 2, 8, 10, 19, 22, and see how they received it, and what others were told to do to receive it. You will not be disappointed. I promise you.

Sing: I’ve got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible said. I’ve got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible said. Well, I’ve been to the water, and I’ve been baptized in Jesus’ name, my soul got happy and I’m so satisfied. I wouldn’t take nothing for my journey now; just like the Bible, just like the Bible said. 

Thought For Today: “Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?” (Acts 10:47)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 3

Hoping For That We See Not

“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.” (Romans 8:24-25)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that every born-again believer must learn is how to walk by faith and not by sight. When we pray and ask God to do something for us, then we must have the faith to wait until He comes through for us. We don’t need to keep pestering Him to come through for us. Scripture tells us that He already knows the things we have need of before we ask Him. Paul tells us that hope that is seen is not hope. If I can see what I am hoping for, then why am I hoping. True hope focuses on the future not the present. The writer of Hebrews tells us: “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; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.” (Hebrews 6:18-20) We are not waiting for the here and now, we are waiting for Christ’s soon appearing. This is why we hope and look not at the things which are seen, but the things which are not seen. That’s why I live with HIV. Heaven In View. 

Sing: We’re going to a city there will be no more night. We’re going to a city where Jesus is the light. The trumpet’s gonna sound, and we’ll be called away; We’re going to a city someday. 

Thought For Today: Stay focused, Jesus is coming.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 2

The Things You Learn In Afflictions

“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

Today’s Morsel: Most folks do not like afflictions. But we see in Scripture some good things that come from other’s afflictions that can help us in our walk. Moses wrote: “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) Here we see that the children of Isreal multiplied and grew in their afflictions. David wrote: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” (Psalms 34:19) Here we see that even though the righteous suffer, God is still with us. And finally, the writer of Hebrews tells us: “By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward.” (Hebrews 11:24-26) Moses saw that there was a great reward at the end. No matter what afflictions may come into our lives, as Christian, we have a promise from God that He will not leave us nor forsake us. Paul tells as that our afflictions are only for a moment, and that they are working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. Paul isn’t minimizing our suffering. He’s just showing us that our suffering has a divine purpose, and that God is producing something great and valuable in us. 

Sing: He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities. Surely, He bought all our sorrows; and by His stripes we are healed.

Thought For Today: “Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience.” (James 5:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 October 1

Led By The Spirit

“For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:14)

Today’s Morsel: Paul states that those who are led and guided by the Holy Ghost are the sons of God (this term is gender nature). It emphasizes that if we say we are born-again of the water and the Spirit, then we ought not to be controlled by our desires and wants for things of the world. Our desires and wants ought to be more for the things of God. Our relationship with Christ ought to be being influence by the Spirit in us. Paul admonishes us: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost, which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20) We have been adopted into the family of God. Who is leading you? 

Sing: Where He leads me, I will follow. Where He leads me, I will follow. where He leads me, I will follow. I’ll go with Him, with Him, all the way.

Thought For Today: “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 8:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 September 30

Who Are You Looking To For Salvation

“Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God, and there is none else.” (Isaiah 45:22)

Today’s Morsel: According to the apostle Peter, there is none other name given to men under heaven whereby we must be saved. The name Jesus Christ (Acts 4:12). Who are you looking to for your salvation? What is your understanding of salvation. What are you being saved from? Why do we need to be saved? And just how do we become saved? Well, if there is salvation only in Jesus Christ, then we ought to be looking to Him. If salvation is deliverance from harm, ruin, and loss, then I need to be looking to Jesus. If I am being saved from those things, then that is where I need to be looking. And how are we saved?  “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. 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.” (Acts 2:38-42) Who are you looking to so you can be saved?  

Sing: Saved and I’m happy today, thanks be to God for this I can say; that I’m saved and I’m happy today, I’m walking up the King’s highway. 

Thought For Today: “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 September 29

Evil Ways

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” (Proverbs 14:12)

Today’s Morsel: What path are you on? Where is the road you are now traveling leading you? Paul tells us: “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.” (1 Timothy 4:1-3); “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7) Have you stopped to consider where you might be heading and if you are on the right road? They say that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. If your life is always in a confused, depressed, stressed, and despondent state, you may want to check the road that you are on. The children of Israel murmured and complained for forty years in the wilderness until they died, because they would not get off the evil pathway. They had every opportunity to reverse course for their lives, and yet they chose daily to stay in the evil way. They saw everything that God was doing for them, and yet they chose to remain in the evil way. The Lord said through the prophet Jeremiah: “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, God tried to help them get off their evil way, but they chose to remain. What about you? Is God trying to get you to reverse course? The way you are on may seem right, but is it right? Check your GPS (Bible) and make sure you are on course.  

Sing: Oh there’s a highway to heaven, none can walk up there but the pure in heart; oh, there’s a highway to heaven, walking up the King’s highway.

Thought For Today: “It maybe they will present their supplication before the LORD and will return everyone from his evil way: for great is the anger and the fury that the LORD hath pronounced against this people.” (Jeremiah 36:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 September 27

A Good Understanding

“Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. The law of the wise is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death. Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.” (Proverbs 13:13-15)

Today’s Morsel: As the world turns, one can easily see that many do not have a good and clear understanding of God and His ways. Hell has enlarged itself and people are daily running headlong to get into it. People are only fazed by tragedy and death for a moment. And then they move on. Funerals processions use to have people pulling off to the side of the road or curb, paying their respect to the family of the deceased, and pondering on their own life and that of their loved ones and others. But no more. Today, people see funerals as an interruption to their life and livelihood. Solomon said, “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) He calls for us to consider death, as this is the route that we all shall someday take. Good understanding giveth favor he said. When we possess good understanding and discernment, along with wise decision making, we will find favor and blessings in life. While those who do not possess good understanding, who reject God’s word, show disregard for His wisdom, and live in a rebellious state against His principles and laws will find themselves encountering hardship and difficulties in life. The way of a transgressor is hard. But good understanding giveth favor. 

Sing: Every day with Jesus, is sweeter than the day before, every day with Jesus, I love Him more and more. Jesus saves, and He keeps me, He’s the one I’m living for. Every day with Jesus, is sweeter than the day before.

Thought For Today: “Now the name of the man was Nabal; and the name of his wife Abigail: and she was a woman of good understanding, and of a beautiful countenance: but the man was churlish and evil in his doings; and he was of the house of Caleb.” (1 Samuel 25:3)