Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 31

Who Is Your God?

“The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret.” (Daniel 2:47)

Today’s Morsel: One of the most essential keys to spiritual growth is spiritual understanding. Peter closes his letter to the church with these words: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18) Jude closest his letter with these words: “Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” (Jude 1:24-25) John closes his letter with these words,“And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20) And Paul informs Timothy in the closing of his letter to Timothy with these words: “These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. 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 3:14-16) Scripture says that the king answered unto Daniel, after Daniel interpreted his dream by saying, of a truth it is that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings. This is a true statement by the king to Daniel as our God is not only the true God, but He is also King of kings, and Lord of lords. How do you see Him?

Sing: He is Jehovah God, the coming King of glory, He’s the true Nissi, the Lord of grace and favor, He’s Jesus Christ, Redeemer, Friend and Savior, He’s the Great, He’s the Great I Am.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 30

Enjoy Praying

“Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.” (Matthew 26:36-46) 

Today’s Morsel: Do you love to pray? One of the keys to being an effective Christian is to maintain a consistent prayer life. I’m not saying that you must be at church to pray. I think this is where some folks err. They think that someone else should do their praying for them. When Jesus was crucified on Calvary, the veil if the temple was rend giving everyone free access to God for themselves. We no longer need a priest to go to Jesus for our sins. We now can each come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16) You can pray for yourself and others anywhere you may choose. Prayer must be something that we enjoy doing. If we enjoy going to church, then we should enjoy praying. If we like reading our Bibles, then we ought to enjoy praying. Prayer is an essential link between you and God. I love to pray because it gives me strength to keep going when I am starting to feel like quitting. Prayer is a motivator for the disheartened and depressed. Prayer lets you know that you are not alone. Prayer takes the focus off you and places it on to Jesus. Prayer gives encouragement to what you are going through and what you may be facing. Jesus told His disciples to watch and pray because their flesh was weak. Your flesh will oftentimes give in to wrong when you are tired, or your back is against the wall. But if you have a joy for prayer, it is in those times of disappointment and trials that you will know where to turn to for your help.

Sing: Whisper a prayer in the morning, whisper a prayer at noon, whisper a prayer in the evening, so keep your heart in tune.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 29

Crown Chaser

“Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-27)

Today’s Morsel: For twenty-eight years of my adult life, I chased after the corruptible crown. My twenty-eight years in military uniform pushed me to be a crown chaser. When I first enlisted in the army, and when I met my first drill instructor, and saw his campaign hat (Smokey Bear) on his head, I wanted to wear one myself. And I went after it. Crown chaser.  When I saw the Combat Infantry Badge worn by those who had faced the enemy in battle, I wanted one, too. And I went after it. When I saw the spit shine jump boots worn by airborne soldiers, I went after them. When I saw the diamond inside the first sergeant’s chevrons, I went after it. When I saw the star with a wreath around it, worn by Command Sergeants Majors, I went after it. When I saw soldiers wearing Physical Fitness Excellent Badges on their physical fitness uniforms, I went after it. Chasing corruptible crowns. Was it a waste? I don’t think so. By learning early in life to chase after a corruptible crown, and by applying myself and motivating myself, when God called me out of darkness into His marvelous light, and I became born-again, God showed me how easy it was to use that same eagerness and zeal to chase after an incorruptible crown. The crown of heaven, the crown of life, a crown of righteousness is now what I chase after. I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air: But I keep under my body and bring it into subjection.  And now I’ve become like Paul, when he said, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14) Not only am I a God chaser, but I have also become a chaser for those incorruptible crowns. What crowns are you chasing after?

Sing: Then the Savior will give order to prepare the banquet board, when the redeemed are gathering in; And we’ll hear His invitation, “Come, ye, blessed of the Lord,” When the redeemed are gathering in.

Well, when the redeemed are gathering in, washed like the snow and free from all sin; how we will shout, and how we will sing, when the redeemed are gathering in.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 28

Warning Signs

“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-12)

Today’s Morsel: Do not enter! Drive and text later! High Voltage, Don’t Touch! Caution Wet Floor! Warning signs are given to help keep us safe. If we follow them, we are often kept safe. But when we refuse to heed the warning, we may cause ourselves and others harm. Paul, writing to the church at Corinth, gave them warning so that they would not lose their eternal reward. He warns them that unrighteous could not inherit the kingdom of God. Neither could fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, could inherit the kingdom of God.  These warning signs now flow to each of us.  Throughout scripture there are many warnings signs which God gives us to keep us safe. We are warned not to worship idols. We are warned to not serve other gods. We are warned to keep God first in all that we do.Paul again cautions us, “For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them.” (Ephesians 5:5-7) We must heed the warnings, or we could very well lose our soul.

Sing: I’ll say yes, Lord yes, to Your will and to Your way. I’ll say yes, Lord, yes, I will trust You an obey. When Your Spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I’ll agree, and my answer will be yes, Lord yes!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 27

The Clay Has No Power

“Woe unto him that striveth with his Maker! Let the potsherd strive with the potsherds of the earth. Shall the clay say to him that fashioneth it, What makest thou? or thy work, He hath no hands?” (Isaiah 45:9)

Today’s Morsel: One of the lessons we learn in life is that things, and even humans have no power over the ones who made them. It’s not the automobile that has the power, but the hands that make it. It’s not the horse that has the power, but the Lord which created him. It is not the clay that has the power but the hands that shape it. It not the human that has the power, but the Lord which created him. The only power we have is that which God gives to us for His purpose and glory, not our own. The Lord said to Jeremiah, “O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel.” (Jeremiah 18:6) He continues through Jeremiah by saying: “Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.” (Jeremiah 9:23-24) We must know who has the power.  When he brought Ezekiel into the valley of dry bones, “And he said unto me, Son of man, can these bones live? And I answered, O Lord GOD, thou knowest.” (Ezekiel 37:3). Ezekiel knew that he had no power to make these bones live. Only God could do that. The psalmist wrote: “God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.” (Psalms 62:11) Remember, we were created from the dust of the earth. Therefore, we have no power of our own selves. Scripture tells us, “Let every soul be subject unto the higher powers. For there is no power but of God: the powers that be are ordained of God.” (Romans 13:1) The power we have has been given by the hands that made us, “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13).

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 25

Rejecting The Word

“And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them.” (1 Samuel 8:7)

Today’s Morsel: How do you feel when you want to share the word of God with someone, and they reject you? Do you feel like a failure in your witnessing abilities? Do you feel as though you are not cut out to be a good Christian witness? Do you feel like what’s the use people don’t want to hear what I have to say. Well, if you feel this way, stop. As Jesus told Samuel, they are not rejecting you, they are rejecting Me. He is the word made flesh (John 1:14). Always keep that in mind. Jesus told His disciples: “If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.” (John 15:18-20) You are no longer of the world so expect rejection.  Don’t ever think that the devil is just going to let you tiptoe into his kingdom and draw away his servants without a fight. Rejection of the Word means rejection of Jesus, not you.  Notice what Jesus also said in the charge of the great commission: “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) We are chosen to go and tell. If they reject it, it’s not on you. It’s their soul that is at stake not yours.

Sing: If when you give the best of your service, telling the world that the Savior has come, be not dismayed, when men don’t believe you: He’ll understand and say, “Well done.” O when I come to the end of my journey, weary of life, and the battle is won, carrying the staff and the cross of redemption, He’ll understand and say, “Well done.”

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 24

False Advertisement

“Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.” (Matthew 23:27-28)

Today’s Morsel: I was talking with a lady a few weeks ago, and we were discussing why our food never seems to turn out like the advertisement. We chuckled about our conversation since we know that a lot of times there are false advertisements because some folks don’t want what you are cooking to turn out like theirs, they want you to keep coming back to them.  For example, my wife and I have tried everything to make Applebee’s Spinach Artichoke Dip several times. But it never tastes quite like theirs. And so, we keep going back to the restaurant to get the original. 

Jesus told the religious leaders that they were false advertisers. He told them that they appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all uncleanness. Even so, He said, that they also outwardly appear righteous unto men, but within they were full of hypocrisy and iniquity. What about us? Are we the real deal? Do people see us as the real deal or do they see us the way that Jesus saw the religious leaders in His day. Corrupt and wrong. Do we say one thing and do another? Do we treat everyone the same without looking at the race, creed, or origin? Do we render help to everyone the same? Do we charge others less than we do those of our own race? Do we turn others down because they don’t look like us? Do we give everyone the same opportunities to excel as we do those to whom we know? Do we judge everyone by the same standard? James tells tell us, “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) If someone challenged your faith and walk with God, how would you feel? If it upsets you, they may be right. But if you can smile and continue going on, you know that you have His anointing and your walk is pure. 

Sing: This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, this little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine; This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 23

What Sound Are You Giving

“For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle?” (1 Corinthians 14:8)

Today’s Morsel: During olden days of military life and training, the bugle was used to give signals to soldiers throughout their day and in times of battle. Each sound had a certain purpose for which the bugler gave. Certain sounds were given for soldiers to charge their enemy, to retreat from their enemy, to assemble on their leaders, to wake up, to go to bed, and even to eat. If the wrong sound was given or the sound was not clear, it could create confusion or the loss of life.  In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul used the idea of a military battle to address the use of the gift of speaking in tongues in the church, and said if the trumpet gives an uncertain sound who shall prepare himself to the battle. His analogy was that when this gift is used in the church, that there ought to be a clear sound by whomever it is being given by. There should be no confusion as to what is being said so it can be received in the ear of the receiver. As those soldiers in the church should know the sound and will then know how to prepare themselves and respond. But if the sound is not clear, confusion can set in and the church will be seen as confused. Do you know the sound from heaven? What sound is being sent out from your life? Does your life give a clear sound to others?

Sing: See the glorious banner waving! Hear the trumpet blow! In our Leader’s name we’ll triumph over every foe.

“Hold the fort, for I am coming,” Jesus’ signals still; wave the answer back to heaven, “By Thy grace we will.” 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 22

What’s Following Your But?

“The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.” (Proverbs 10:1)

Today’s Morsel: Conjunctions are designed to connect thoughts, phrases, and ideas together in a sentence. Throughout the book of proverbs, we see them being used quite often. The book of proverbs also uses these conjunctions in an antithetical way to contrast one part from the other. As we see in today verse. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother. Notice how the conjunction brings out who is hinder most. The mother. The mother is filled with grief and heaviness when the son is without wisdom, but if he is wise then his father receives honor. Throughout scripture, the burden or caring for the home fell to the mother. And in ancient times, mothers were often responsible for educating the child. And if a child was found to be evil in his doings, his mother’s name was often listed.  The book of proverbs is written to bring about wisdom into our lives. And when we read it, those conjunctions ought to enlighten us to the contrast of right versus wrong so that we will do the right thing and bring honor to our Heavenly Father. “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom.” (Proverbs 13:10) So let me ask you today, what’s following your but?

Sing: Heavenly Father, I appreciate You. Heavenly Father, I appreciate You.  I love You, adore You, I bow down before You; Heavenly Father, I appreciate You.   

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 21

My Expectation is From God

“My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from him. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” (Psalms 62:5-8)

Today’s Morsel: How much do you believe and trust in God? One of the things we learn from scripture is that folks will disappoint you. They will turn on you, and even let you do what is in their best interest. They will sometimes sell you out if it will make them look good. Scripture tells us: “Most men will proclaim everyone his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6) The psalmist states that his expectation is from God. When we keep God is His rightful place and put our trust in Him, we aren’t likely to be disappointed. Paul tells us: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7)Whatever we have need of we must take it to Jesus. Solomon states: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5) What are your expectations from God? Do you believe that He will come through for you? 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.” (Hebrews 10:35-37) If we take it to Jesus, then we must be willing to wait on Him to respond. We can be confident that He will.

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.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 20

 How’s Your Attitude?

“And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you. Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost his savour, wherewith shall it be salted? it is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of men. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 5:1-16)

Today’s Morsel: Attitudes can fall into two categories: Good or evil. We never see in scripture attitudes as being positive or negative. They are either good or evil. Jesus said: “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.” (Luke 6:45) When we become born-again, our attitudes ought to be good. There should never be any evil found in us because God is good all the time. We ought to be going out of our way to inspire and encourage others daily. Someone said that Jesus taught His disciples the beatitude so that they would improve their attitudes. We see this even when the disciples asked Jesus how often they should forgive someone who offended them. Jesus tells them 460 times. To which the disciples say, “Lord increase our faith.” Many would say that’s a lot. But Jesus was teaching them the importance of attitude adjustment. You are supposed to have a good attitude and not allow things that others do to offend you. All because you no longer belong to, nor are you a part of this world. As scripture says, “Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them.” (Psalms 119:165) You now belong to Jesus, and He is good, as we are quick to say, all the time. Even as John admonishes, “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:6) How’s your attitude?

Sing: I want to live the way He wants me to live. I want to give until there’s just no more to give. I want to love, love till there’s just no more love. I could never, never, out love the Lord.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 18

 Protecting The Foundation

“If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?” (Psalms 11:3)

Today’ Morsel: One of the most essential things of any building is its foundation. Whatever goes into the foundation will determine if the building stands or fall over time, leak or sway, crack or deteriorate. When we become Christians, how we build our lives must be based on the instructions from the Master builder. Our foundation must be carefully considered because it represents Christ Himself. Therefore, all doctrines, truth, and holiness must be based on the instructions found in the blueprint (The Bible) and built upon this foundation. Paul tells us, “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11) Our lives must be built upon the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our faith in Him must be unmovable. There is no other foundation which can withstand what we will face and endure in life. Satan knows that if he can destroy the foundation of the Word of God, when it comes to marriage, gender identity, doctrine, and everything we face in life, he knows that he can destroy us. This is why these things are now under strong attack. Satan’s strategy isn’t so much about destroying the church as it is about destroying the foundation upon which the church is built upon. If he can cause a crack or break in the foundation, he knows that other things will also be destroyed in the process, because if the building’s foundation is not repaired and does not remain solid, the building will soon fall. Even the things we have always believed to be true are now under attack. “For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish.” (Luke 14:28-30) Make sure that you have the things you need when you begin to build, and be careful how you build and what you are building on. Build on the solid truth of God’s word.  

Sing: When you see me praying, I’m working on the building, I’m going up to heaven, to get my reward. Well, I never get tired, working on the building, I’m going up to heaven to get my reward.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 17

My Defense

“My defence is of God, which saveth the upright in heart.” (Psalms 7:10)

Today’s Morsel: As Christians, one of the things we need in our walk and spiritual warfare is protection. Paul tells us to put on the whole armor of God so that we may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Protection is needed in so many areas of our lives. We need protection first and foremost from ourselves. You may be saying, “I don’t need protection from me.” But really you do. And here’s why. We often say and do things, and then we feel terrible about what we may have said because we know that we can’t get our words back. We may even give in to wrong on the job because we don’t want others to criticize us for our beliefs; or we may think that no one will see us when we do wrong, and then we feel bad because we feel as though we let God down. Therefore, we need protection from ourselves. We also may find that in this warfare, we need protection from wrong thoughts, actions, and conduct of others, because others will try to draw us in to their circles or wrong. The enemy of our soul would love nothing more than to destroy us. Therefore, we must seek God daily for His divine protection. We must have Him become our defense. It is only through Him that we are safe and protected. So, stay under the shadow of His wings.

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 16

Where Can We Find Wisdom?

“But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?” (Job 28:12)

Today’s Morsel: Once we become born-again believers, God expects us to be endowed with His character. We cannot live an abundant life, be joyful, and hope to inspire others in the church and world without wisdom, knowledge, understanding, discretion, and instructions. Without wisdom, we will make fools of ourselves. We will always live a defeated, depressed, and stress filled life. Solomon states: “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: To deliver thee from the way of the evil man, from the man that speaketh froward things; Who leave the paths of uprightness, to walk in the ways of darkness; Who rejoice to do evil, and delight in the frowardness of the wicked; Whose ways are crooked, and they froward in their paths: To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words; Which forsaketh the guide of her youth, and forgetteth the covenant of her God.” (Proverbs 2:10-17) So, where can wisdom be found? “I wisdom dwell with prudence and find out knowledge of witty inventions.” (Proverbs 8:12). Whereas wisdom is the deep knowledge of God, prudence is the practical application of that knowledge. They live and operate together. You can’t have one without the other. Whereas wisdom causes us to speak and act properly; prudence prevents us from speaking and acting improperly. When we find Jesus Christ, we will find wisdom and prudence as well.

Sing: Deeper, deeper, every day with Jesus, take me deeper still. Till my life is wholly lost in Jesus, and His perfect will. 

Oh, deeper yet I prayer; and higher every day. And wiser blessed Lord, in Thy precious holy Word. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 15

Where Is My Hope?

“And where is now my hope? as for my hope, who shall see it?” (Job 17:15)

Today’s Morsel: Why does it seem that so many Christians are becoming so hopeless. Are you one of them who feel as though you have lost your hope? Job asked: “What is my strength, that I should hope? and what is mine end, that I should prolong my life?” (Job 6:11). Job was starting to feel as though he did not have the inner strength to face the challenges and trials he was facing. And he started to feel hopeless. When Jezebel sent word to Elijah that she as going to kill him, he scanned the battlefield of life, and realized that she had killed the prophets, and that he was no better than they were. And so he ran for his life, and he started to feel hopeless, too. You can’t lose your hope in Christ when you are facing situations and trials in your life. 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.” (Romans 8:24-27) Where is your hope? When Job reconsidered the situation, he said: Is not my help in me? Hope is where it’s always been. Within you.  You haven’t lost it. You just need to stir up the gift that is in you. 

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 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.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 14

What Is Your Request?

“Oh that I might have my request; and that God would grant me the thing that I long for!” (Job 6:8)

Today’s Morsel: If you could have your request, what would it be? When Haman was out to destroy all the Jews, Queen Esther invited the King and Haman to a banquet. And when the king arrived, he wanted to know what Esther’s request was. He told her that it would be granted to her even unto the half of his kingdom. What is your request from God?  Jesus said, “Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” (Matthew 7:7-8) Are you afraid to ask God for things. Not me!  The Blindman who cried out to Jesus for His help was asked by Jesus what is request was. He said, “Lord that I might receive my sight.” And Jesus said unto him, receive thy sight thy faith hath made thee whole. When Elijah asked Elisha what his request was, Elisha told him I want a double portion of thy spirit. And he received it. James said that you have not because you ask not. So, what is your request?

Sing: Take your burdens to Jesus, your burden He’ll bear, tell Him your sorrow, your sorrow He’ll share; He’s waiting just to bless you, with and outstretched hand, tell Him your troubles, oh yeah, and He’ll understand. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 13

Failure To Keep The Promise

“Thus Solomon finished the house of the LORD, and the king's house: and all that came into Solomon's heart to make in the house of the LORD, and in his own house, he prosperously effected. And the LORD appeared to Solomon by night, and said unto him, I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice. If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. Now mine eyes shall be open, and mine ears attent unto the prayer that is made in this place. For now have I chosen and sanctified this house, that my name may be there for ever: and mine eyes and mine heart shall be there perpetually. And as for thee, if thou wilt walk before me, as David thy father walked, and do according to all that I have commanded thee, and shalt observe my statutes and my judgments; Then will I stablish the throne of thy kingdom, according as I have covenanted with David thy father, saying, There shall not fail thee a man to be ruler in Israel. But if ye turn away, and forsake my statutes and my commandments, which I have set before you, and shall go and serve other gods, and worship them; Then will I pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them; and this house, which I have sanctified for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it to be a proverb and a byword among all nations. And this house, which is high, shall be an astonishment to every one that passeth by it; so that he shall say, Why hath the LORD done thus unto this land, and unto this house? And it shall be answered, Because they forsook the LORD God of their fathers, which brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, and laid hold on other gods, and worshipped them, and served them: therefore hath he brought all this evil upon them.” (2 Chronicles 7:11-22)

Today’s Morsel: When Solomon dedicated the Temple to the Lord, he prayed and asked God to remember Israel, to forgive them of their sins if they confessed them, and to be their protector and deliverer. Solomon’s prayer was so anointed, that scripture says the priests could not enter into the house of the Lord, because the glory of the Lord had filled the Lord’s house (2 Chronicles 7:2). But the Lord tells Solomon after his prayer and dedication, “I have heard thy prayer, and have chosen this place to myself for an house of sacrifice. But if ye turn away, and forsake my statutes and my commandments, which I have set before you, and shall go and serve other gods, and worship them; Then will I pluck them up by the roots out of my land which I have given them. And this house, which I have sanctified for my name, will I cast out of my sight, and will make it to be a proverb and a byword among all nations. We are the temple of God and God’s Spirit is always present with us. And when we pray and ask God to be with us, God says, I will if you will. But as the Lord told Solomon, if you go and worship and serve another God, I will cast you off forever. God is going to fulfill the promises that He makes to us. Therefore, we had better fulfill those that we make to him. 

Sing: Lord, You are more precious than silver. Lord, You are more costly than gold. Lord, You are more beautiful than diamonds, and nothing I desire compares to You.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 11

Thou Art The Man

“And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter. And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him. And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity. And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul;” (2 Samuel 12:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: I think one of the reasons that God tells us not to be too quick to judge others is because all of us have past sin, and in some cases, some have present sins in their lives that could be so easily revealed and brought to light. David, from what we can tell, was a man who loved God and knew that without God he was nothing. David had seen God work in his life and on his behalf, but for some reason, he allowed sin to get into his heart and cause him to do something that went totally against God’s Word. David was not expecting the revelation of truth when God sent the prophet Nathan to his house. Nathan’s parable made David think that he was referring to someone other then himself. By using a wayfaring man and sheep in the parable, David could relate to the importance of protecting the sheep and preventing someone from harming them. He could easily see the wrong. And now being king, he began to feel that the prophet was telling him this story to do something about it. And he calls for the man to be put to death and to pay reparation. But when the prophet reveals that he is the man, his heart was smitten, and his countenance fallen. David now knows that God has not left his sin in darkness, nor is he unaware of his actions as king.  David knows that his sin has found him out, and his life is now in the hands of God for judgment. The prophet enlightens David of what God has told him to tell him. David is so hurt that he has caused God pain by his actions, that he can only ask for forgiveness and repent of his sin. This revelation crushes David and he is left carrying this weight of sin upon his should for the rest of his life.  David knows that the fallout from his sin will be great from this day forward, and he must learn to deal with it. Paul, writing to the church, tells us: “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:11-12) David’s story is an example for us so that we do not make the same mistake. Always remember, when the tree falls, there is great damage.

Sing: I love Him too much, to fail Him now; too much, to break my vow. For I promised the Lord that I would make it somehow, and now I love him too much to fail Him now.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 10

Spiritual Gifts

“Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant. Ye know that ye were Gentiles, carried away unto these dumb idols, even as ye were led. Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost. Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord. And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; To another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will.” (1 Corinthians 12:1-11)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about Paul’s letters to the church is they can sometimes seem confusing if we are not willing to read and study them. If we desire to gain an understand and prevent confusion, then we must search the scriptures. Even Isaiah tells us in his writings: “Whom shall he teach knowledge? and whom shall he make to understand doctrine? them that are weaned from the milk, and drawn from the breasts. For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: 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. But the word of the LORD was unto them precept upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little; that they might go, and fall backward, and be broken, and snared, and taken.” (Isaiah 28:9-13) Sometimes we may read something in one of Paul’s letters to a different church, and it can seem confusion and different then what He had said before. But like any follow-up letter written, you usually explain something better the second time around when people do not get it the first time. When it comes to spiritual gifts, which are used in the church to edify the body, some think that Paul refutes their being used, and that not everyone receives them. That is not the case. To prevent confusion, Paul tries to explain how these gifts ought to be used in the church. For example, he stated that everyone ought not to be speaking in tongues in the church at the same time because it would be confusing to the unbeliever sitting in the church. He isn’t refuting the gifts; he is explaining the use of the gifts for their intended purposes. And that is for edification and instruction once you receive them. Everyone that receives the gift of the Holy Ghost will speak in tongues as the Spirit gives them utterance. See (Acts 2:1-4, Acts 10:44-48, Acts 19:1-6, Acts 11:1-18). Tongues is your individual sign that you have received God’s spirit. But when it comes to using the gift of tongues for the edification of the body, and the interpretation of tongues, not everyone will receive this gifting and thus use this gift for that purpose.  And the same is true with the other giftings. Again, we must read and study the scriptures to gain a complete understanding.  

Sing: Let Jesus lead you, let Jesus lead you, let Jesus lead you all the way. All the way from, earth to glory, let Jesus lead you all the way.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 9

The Revelation of Truth

“And Samuel grew, and the LORD was with him, and did let none of his words fall to the ground. And all Israel from Dan even to Beersheba knew that Samuel was established to be a prophet of the LORD. And the LORD appeared again in Shiloh: for the LORD revealed himself to Samuel in Shiloh by the word of the LORD.” (1 Samuel 3:19-21)

Today’s Morsel: One of the greatest miracles you will ever discover is the revelation of who God is. This question has so plagued many that many have walked away from God because they just don’t know who He is. But Paul admonishes: “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 does not want you to know who God is. He knows that if he can keep you blinded to the truth, you will never come into a full revelation as to who Jesus Christ is and who you are in Him. John wrote Jesus as saying: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me.” (John 5:39). He continues by writing: “That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)” (1 John 1:1-2) “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20) Scripture says that God revealed himself to Samuel by His word. If you have a Bible, God has handed you His word to reveal to you who He is. You cannot take man’s word for it. You must search the scriptures for yourself and allow God to reveal himself to you as He did to the woman at the well. “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 4:25-26) The truth will not only make you free, but it will also open your understanding to that truth.  “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)

 “He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?” (Matthew 16:15)

Sing: He’s the Great I Am, the Everlasting Father, He’s the Price of Peace, the Great Eternal Wonder, Holy Counselor, and Zion’s Righteous Governor, He’s the Great, He’s the Great I Am.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 8

The Point of No Return

“Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread. Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah. And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept. And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people. And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.” (Ruth 1:6-18)

Today’s Morsel: Located between North and South Korea, on the 28^th Parallel line, lies a bridge known as ‘The Bridge of no Return.’ At the signing of the armistice on July 27, 1953 to halt the war between North and South Korea, many soldiers were allowed to return over this bridge into their homelands. But once they crossed over, there was no opportunity for them to ever return into that country. And even today, North and South Korea are at odds with each other. 

When Naomi’s’ husband along with her two sons died in the land of Moab, she was left with two daughters-in-law. She knew that she really had no place for them to go, nor did she have any more sons for them to marry.  And so, she gave them an option, return home to their families. Orpah chose to return home, but Ruth chose the bridge of no return. It would have been easy for Ruth to return home as well. But Ruth saw the greater need of her mother-in-law. She saw, I believe, a woman who needed her in her greatest hour of need. And when she chose the bridge of no return, God saw the opportunity to fulfill His plan through her life. And scripture says, “So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.” (Ruth 4:13) “And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David.” (Ruth 4:17) “And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.” (Ruth 4:21-22) 

Don’t be too quick to go back because the situation looks direr or dreary. Wait and see what God will do for and through you.

Sing: Trails dark on every hand and we cannot understand all the ways 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 are gathering home; We will tell the story, how we’ve overcome, we will understand it better by and by.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 7

How Do You See Yourself?

“And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites. And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee? And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house. And the LORD said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man.” (Judges 6:11-16)

Today’s Morsel: Now that you are born-again, how do you see yourself? Are you still fearful? Are you still seeing yourself as what others always said about you? Do you see yourself as unskilled and unqualified to do anything for God. Just how do you see yourself? Do the thoughts of witnessing and telling others about Jesus, and being used in the ministry frighten you? Are you afraid of confrontation? Are you hiding your talents? Now that you are filled with the Holy Ghost and baptized in Jesus’ name, how do you see yourself? What causes you anxiety, stress, restlessness? Have you read these scriptures:

·      “The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1)

·      “And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28)

·      “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10)

·      “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. For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:28-31)

·      “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” (John 14:1)

·      “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 1:6-7)

How do you see yourself? God is with us, and He will not forsake us. God was just looking for a man to fill in the gap for Israel. And Gideon just seemed to fit the bill.  God looks for the weak to help them build their faith and trust in His ability to do great things through their lives.  

Paul said: “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.” (1 Corinthians 1:25-29) Let me encourage you. God wants to do something great in you and give you a testimony that will shake the world. If you feel that God is calling you, do as Samuel did and say, “Speak Lord for thy servant heareth.”

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 January 6

Be Strong And Of Good Courage

“Now after the death of Moses the servant of the LORD it came to pass, that the LORD spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast. There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:1-9)

Today’s Morsel: One of the major strength stealers is death. Death just seems to zap people of their strength and encouragement. Death has sent many people into depression, anxiety, fear, and even hopelessness. God knew that Joshua, Moses’ minister, would be despondent because of Moses’ death the same way that others would be because Moses had been their leader for the past 40 years. A loss of Godly leadership can hurt.  But God speaks with Joshua and tells him that he has now been chosen to replace Moses, and that it is he who would now lead the people into the promised land. God instructs him what he must do to be strong and of good courage. And that was, to not let His Word depart out of his mouth. In other words, Joshua must read God’s word, study God’s word, speak of God’s word, and obey God’s word, and that this word would keep him encouraged, strong, and bring him good success. God’s promise has not changed. If we want to remain encouraged, strong, and have great success, then we must keep the word of God hidden in our hearts and mediate on it daily. “For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:8)

Sing: When my life is burdened with sorrow, and it seems all help is gone, Jesus whispers, “Do not falter; I will leave thee not alone.” Then somehow, amidst my trials, how it is I cannot see; Still, I hear a voice from heaven, gently saying, “Follow me.” 

There is sunshine in the shadow; there is sunshine in the rain; there is sunshine in our sorrow, when our hearts are filled with pain. There is sunshine when we’re burdened; there is sunshine when we pray; there is sunshine, heavenly sunshine, blessed sunshine all the way.