Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 30

In The Garden

“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: Sometimes I wonder if Gethsemane was Eden. There was a lot that happened in that garden the night that Jesus was arrested by the mob. There was a cup that Jesus was facing that He knew must be drank. Gethsemane was a place of emptying out. It was a place, as I have mentioned before, of getting to the point of, nevertheless. This garden experience opens our understanding to the price of eternal salvation. It opens our understanding to the bitterness of death. If shows us the weakness of the flesh and the power of the Spirit. It makes us to understand that even in the church folks will betray you. And it even opens our understanding to what may lie ahead for each of us who is committed to the gospel and truth should the Lord tarry. Jesus knew that this was the lot that He must endure. He knew that for us to live, He Himself, as Abraham said, must become the Lamb for the sacrifice. He had robed Himself in flesh for this moment and time. It was in the first garden that He shed blood to make coats of skins for Adam and Eve to cover their sin; and it was also in this garden that He was about to do it again for ours. As He told His disciples, greater love hath no man than this, than that a man would lay down His life for His friend. Oh, how He loved us.

Sing: I come to the garden alone, while the dew is still on the roses, and the voice I hear, falling on my ear, the Son of God discloses. And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own; and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other, has ever known.

Thought For Today: Thank God for the blood! 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 28

Jesus Got A Hold Of My Life

“They brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was blind. And it was the sabbath day when Jesus made the clay, and opened his eyes. Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine eyes, and I washed, and do see. Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How can a man that is a sinner do such miracles? And there was a division among them. They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet. But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had been blind, and received his sight, until they called the parents of him that had received his sight. And they asked them, saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind? how then doth he now see? His parents answered them and said, We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind: But by what means he now seeth, we know not; or who hath opened his eyes, we know not: he is of age; ask him: he shall speak for himself. These words spake his parents, because they feared the Jews: for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue. Therefore said his parents, He is of age; ask him. Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see. Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how opened he thine eyes? He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples? Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disciple; but we are Moses' disciples. We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is. The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing. They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether born in sins, and dost thou teach us? And they cast him out. Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.” (John 9:13-37)

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture, we see many whose lives were changed after they had an encounter with Jesus. When Jesus came into the home of Zaccheus, he immediately repented, and his life was changed. Mary Magdalene had seven devils cast out of her and she became a faithful disciple. All the apostles were busy about their daily lives and professions, but when Jesus called for them to follow Him, they left their professions and followed Him. From the Old Testament throughout the New Testament, and even today, many lives are being changed when they encounter Jesus. And like some of the apostles and prophets, they are leaving all to follow Christ. What about you? Are you still trying to hold on to your career and yet follow Jesus? It’s not going to work. Jesus said either you will love the one and hate the other, or you will despise the one and hold to the other. You cannot serve God and mammon. To follow Jesus requires 100 percent commitment. “And when he was come into the ship, he that had been possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.” (Mark 5:18-20) You must choose whom you will serve.

Sing: Sometimes I remember how I used to be living in sin, I tried to act happy and free, but I wasn’t within. I fooled a lot of friends of mine, they thought I had some peace of mind, but I never had a thing until I opened- up and let Jesus in.

Jesus got a hold of my life, and He won’t let me go! Jesus got into my heart, He got into my soul! I used to be oh, so sad, but now I’m free and glad. Cause Jesus got ahold of my life, and He won’t let me go. 

Thought For Today: Jesus is still changing lives.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 27

Come Quench Your Thirst

“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.” (Psalms 42:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: Have you heard that song that says, “I need a little church right now?” Sometimes life can get overwhelming, and we need God to restore us to our rightful state. Sometimes, we can get so busy in the hustle and bustle of life that we do not stop at the well of living water and drink. Isaiah even had to call out to the people in his day who were thirsty, when he said: “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price. Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness.” (Isaiah 55:1-2) He said to them, come quench your thirst it's free. Jesus told the woman at the well: “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that I thirst not, neither come hither to draw.” (John 4:13-15) Are you thirsty? Do you need to quench your thirst? There is a fountain of living water waiting for you. “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)” (John 7:37-39) The Holy Ghost is that living water that will quench your thirst. 

Sing: As the deer panteth for the water, so my soul longeth after Thee. You alone are my heart’s desire and I long to worship Thee. You alone are my strength my shield, to You alone may my spirit yield. You alone are my heart’s desire and I long to worship thee. 

Thought For Today: “A Psalm of David, when he was in the wilderness of Judah. O God, thou art my God; early will I seek thee: my soul thirsteth for thee, my flesh longeth for thee in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is; To see thy power and thy glory, so as I have seen thee in the sanctuary.” (Psalms 63:1-2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 26

Sinning Isn’t Easy

“Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.” (Proverbs 13:15)

Today’s Morsel: May I ask you a question? Would you say that sinning is easy or hard? Well, based on the word of God we know that it is hard. No matter how much the world sugarcoats it, makes it seems like it’s lots of fun, and stresses that it must be sought after, it’s not easy. It’s hard. Television and billboards may advertise alcohol, promiscuity, and wild living, but it never shows you inside the prisons, broken homes, the faces of the abused, raped, suicidal, drug addicts, oppressed, depressed, and the confused. I know what it’s like to be a sinner. Like Paul, I could have been the chiefest of sinners.  If Jesus had not stepped in when He did, who knows where I would be. I am totally amazed when I see Christians leave the church for the world. They think that they are heading for fun and freedom. Satan always allows them to get just far enough from the church, to where he makes it hard for them to return without being scared and in some cases for life. Many young girls get pregnant out of wedlock and are left having to care for a child on their own. Many are drawn into debt and financial hardships because they overspend on what they think is fun. Some even find themselves in the city of Sodom and Gomorrah being used and abused. No, my friend, sinning it not easy. It’s hard. But there is a way out. Jesus has come to make you free. So, flee from the grip of Satan and his demonic forces. Run back into the arms of Christ. It’s not too late for you to turn around. Call out to Him today and He will save you.  He is standing ready to free you from the clutches of sin.  

Sing: Aren’t you getting just a bit tired of fooling around, you try to laugh your way through this life but you’re not gaining ground. Why not try the Lord today, just ask Him in your heart to stay; and you’ll find Jesus’ love to be the best thing that you’ve ever found.

Jesus got ahold on my life, and He won’t let me go. Jesus got into my heart He got into my soul. I used to be oh so sad, but now I’m happy free and glad; cause Jesus got ahold of my life, and He won’t let me go.   

Thought For Today: “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 25

Are You Doing Your Duty?

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12:13)

Today’s Morsel: According to General of the Army, Omar Bradley, in his speech to a graduating class of soldiers at West Point, he said, “Duty, Honor, Country. Those three hallowed words reverently dictate what you ought to be, what you can be, and what you will be. They are your rallying points: To build courage when courage seems to fail; to regain faith when there seems to be little cause for faith; to create hope when hope becomes forlorn." Every time I hear his speech it causes me to realize the importance of these three words to one’s life. Jesus told His disciples: “But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.” (Luke 17:7-10) The performance of one’s duty should be based on their love for what they are being asked to do, or what they have signed up to do. Duty is something that we must do because it’s part of our job, or something that we feel is the right thing to do. The difference between duty and responsibility is you cannot delegate responsibility. I can only delegate authority or duty. Responsibility is hidden inside of that authority or duty.  We have a duty to uphold the truth of the gospel and to carry it to the whole world. We know that based on God’s word. But if we do not do it, then Jesus will hold us responsible for failure to do our duty.  

Sing: If I walk in the pathway of duty, if I work till the close of the day; Lord, I shall see the great King in all His beauty, when I’ve gone the last mile of the way.  

Well, when I’ve gone, the last mile of the way, I shall rest at the close of the day. Lord, for I know, that there is joy that waits my heart and my soul, when I’ve gone, the last mile of the way.

Thought For Today: Never mind your happiness; do your duty.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 24

What Do You Think About Yourself?

“He that getteth wisdom loveth his own soul: he that keepeth understanding shall find good.” (Proverbs 19:8)

Today’s Morsel: What do you think about yourself? If you had to do an honest assessment of you, where would you fall on the scale? Would you be a loving and kind person? A depressed and stressful person? One who could care less about life? A person who thinks that they have been dealt a bad hand in life. Or would you be one who is kind, loving, considerate, brave, and excited with life? A lot of people rate their life based on others. Who their parents may be. Other’s looks. Where others live. The academics of others. What others possess.  And even what others say about them. If we base our lives based on these things, we are always going to fall short and live in a despondent state. You should rate yourself based on the word of God. As that is the standard for every life. What others have and may think of you is not who you are. Who you are is who God says that you are. If a person is considered by some to be ugly, it’s usually based on their character. You can be, as Fred Sanford would tell Esther on the show Sanford and Son, that she was so ugly that she could put her face in a pan of dough and make some gorilla cookies, because that was how he saw her based on her actions. But a life in Christ, filled with God’s wisdom, ought to reveal His beauty. Solomon stated that he that loves wisdom loves himself. Wisdom should cause one to be wise and understand that it is only through God that we live, move, and have our being. It is not what someone else may think of us. 

Sing: Wonderful, wonderful, Jesus is to me. Counselor, Prince of peace, Mighty God is He. Saving me, keeping me, from all sin and shame. Wonderful is my Redeemer, praise His name.

Thought For Today: “Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, and the man that getteth understanding.” (Proverbs 3:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 23

The Key To Learning

“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” (Proverbs 9:9)

Today’s Morsel: The key to learning begins with listening and understanding the instructions. Most people never read or listen to the instructions, they just want to get through the test and move on. But instructions are important for learning. The children of Israel never grasped the instructions being given by Moses from the Lord for their spiritual growth and maturity. They thought that they understood what was being required of them, but they soon found out that they did not know. Paul told Timothy: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16) Just what are the instructions in God’s word for righteousness? If you were taking a test about righteousness, how would you know what to look for? The instruction for righteousness starts with understanding the righteousness of God. In speaking of the righteousness of God to the Romans, about the Israelites trying to establish their own righteousness, Paul said: “For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to every one that believeth.” (Romans 10:3-4). God’s righteousness ought to cause us to live moral and upright lives. God’s righteousness turns our hearts from darkness to His marvelous light. God’s righteousness ought to cause us to align our thoughts, words, and actions with His will and principles for our betterment.  God’s righteousness requires us to commitment ourselves to moral integrity, ethical behavior, and to chase after justice and love. The instructions of righteousness start with studying God’s word, seeking His guidance through prayer, repenting when we fall short, and submitting ourselves to every ordinance of God.

Sing: I am thinking of the rapture in our blessed home on high, when the redeemed are gathering in. How we’ll raise the heavenly anthem in that city in the sky, when the redeemed are gathering in.

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

Thought For Today: “For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.”(James 1:20)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 21

Confident In Prayer

“For this shall every one that is godly pray unto thee in a time when thou mayest be found: surely in the floods of great waters they shall not come nigh unto him.” (Psalms 32:6)

Today’s Morsel: How confident are you in your prayers? When you go to God in prayer do you believe that God will come through for you? The writer of Hebrews tells us: “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) Prayers must be accompanied with faith. In Acts 12, after the beheading of James, the disciples were praying, but by all account they did not have faith to believe that Peter would be set free. When Peter knocked on the door, and Rhoda told them that Peter was at the door, they did not believe her. If we aren’t going to believe that Jesus will answer, then there is no need for praying. We must be confident in our prayers. Remember, we are not the ones that give the answer to the prayers, it’s God that does that. Our tasks are to bring the need to Jesus for His help. “And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.” (Matthew 6:5) So, let me encourage you. Don’t lose hope because your prayers aren’t answered on your timeline. God’s ways are not ours, nor are His thoughts like our thoughts. Sometimes we may just need to exercise our faith on what we already know is His will, and watch the miraculous take place.

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: “Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” (Mark 11:24)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 20

Pet Sin 

“Fools make a mock at sin: but among the righteous there is favour.” (Proverbs 14:9)

Today’s Morsel: I’m not against people have pets, but I totally disagree with folks having snakes, rats, mice, and even piranhas for pets. Why would folks choose something dangerous to be a pet without considering their life, the life of others, and even their children’s safety? The same is true when it comes to sin. Some folks treat sin like it is a pet or a dear friend. Solomon says that fools make a mock at sin. In other words, it’s the fool that says in his heart that there is no God (Psalms 14:1), and it is the fool that doesn’t see sin as dangerous to their life, the lives of others, or their loved ones. Sin is like being wrapped by a python. Pretty soon it will wrap itself tight around you and squeeze the life right out of you. Or it’s like have your pet rats or mice get loose in your home, soon there will be more rats and mice than you care to live with. Sin is dangerous, and you shouldn’t play around with it. Paul said that it should not have dominion over you or be a part of your new life.  “Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.” (John 8:34) We must not be a servant to Satan. We must not allow sin to be a pet in our homes. It must never be allowed to enter our doors.

Sing: I was once a sinner, but I came pardon to receive from my Lord. This was freely given, and I found that He always kept His word. There’s a new name written down in glory, and it’s mine, o yes, it’s mine! And the white robed angels sing the story, “A sinner has come home.” For there’s a new name written down in glory, and it’s mine, o yes, it’s mine! With my sins forgiven I am bound for heaven, never more to roam.

Thought For Today:  “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 19

Bridle Your Tongue

“Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.” (Ecclesiastes 5:2)

Today’s Morsel: Scripture tells us that if any man can bridle his tongue, he is a perfect man. James tells us: “For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.” (James 3:2-12) Why can’t people control their tongue if they have the Holy Ghost? Isn’t the Holy Ghost Christ in you the hope of glory? Doesn’t scripture tell us that Jesus Christ had no deceit, and neither was guile found in His mouth? And didn’t Jesus tell us that we should not worry about what to say when we stand before men, as the Spirit would tell us what to say? Then why can’t we bridle our tongue? Why do we feel a need to reply or justify ourselves?  Why do we feel as though we need to get one up on someone else’s story? We shouldn’t need bits and bridles as a horse or mule to control our tongue. The Holy Ghost should do that for us.  Guard your words, they will help keep your soul.  

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 with You.

Thought For Today: Put a lid on it! 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 Jun 18

Eternity

“LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” (Psalms 15:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: The older I get; it just seems as though time is gaining speed. I was talking with a few folks who I know here in the city where I live, and they asked me where I had been. When I told them to Alaska and that I had an opportunity to see and hold my first great grandson, they said to me, you don’t look old enough to have a great grandson. I said, yeah, I know, but my body speaks otherwise (humor). If time passes as fast as it has, and the Lord tarries, I will be one-hundred years old in 26 short years. Crazy isn’t it. But I will tell you that there isn’t a day that goes by that I do not consider eternity. Daily, I make sure that I check in with Jesus through prayer and reading of His word and asking Him to show me any character flaws, sins, and wrongs that may be in my life that need revealing and removal. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to come short of the mark of the prize. Jesus tells us to hold fast to that we have, that no man takes our crown (Revelation 3:11). Like Paul, I don’t want to preach this wonderful gospel of Truth to others and then come up short in the end and find myself being a castaway. As the song writer said and as my wife prays for our family every morning, for above all else I must be saved. Jesus even said: “For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” (Mark 8:36) Have you considered eternity lately?

Sing: If we never meet again, on this earth my blessed friend, if to God, we have been true, and we’ve lived above all sin, then for us, there’ll be a greeting, for there’s going to be a meeting, I’ll see you in the rapture some sweet day. 

Hallelujah, I’ll see you in the rapture, I’ll see you in the rapture, I’ll see you in the meeting in the air.

Thought For Today: Eternity has no end!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 Jun 17

Adjustments

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8)

Today’s Morsel: The story is told of two ministers who were standing along the road with a sign that read, “Turn Around.” But cars passed them by and just kept going, and soon the cars would just disappear. After about an hour of this, one of the ministers turned to the other one and said, “Do you think we should change our sign to say that the bridge is out?” At what point in your life would you say that you need to make some adjustments in your life? That adage that says, If you always do what you have always done, you will get what you’ve always got, is true. We shouldn’t live our lives in a rut. We should make changes in our lives as God’s word enlightens us and opens our understanding. When Jesus told and explained to Nicodemus that he must be born-again to see and enter the kingdom of God, I think that Nicodemus went home and made some adjustments. Scripture says of Nicodemus: “Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by night, being one of them,) Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and know what he doeth? They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no prophet.” (John 7:50-52); “And after this Joseph of Arimathaea, being a disciple of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that he might take away the body of Jesus: and Pilate gave him leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about an hundred pound weight. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.” (John 19:38-40) I believe that he heard something from Jesus that caused Him to realize who Jesus was, and that truth calls for change.  If we say that we have been with Jesus, and know Him, then there ought to be some adjustments in our lives that will make us more like Him and be ready to represent Him no matter where we are. What changes and adjustments is Jesus showing you to make in your life?

Sing: He’s changing me, my blessed Savior, I’m not the same person that I use to be. Well it’s been slow going, but there’s a knowing that someday perfect I will be.

Thought For Today: Change your mind and your body will follow.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 16

Embarrassed

“Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.” (Psalms 12:1)

Today’s Morsel: How would you like to live in a city or town called Embarrass. Well, there is such a place here in Wisconsin. There are about 400 people that live there. The town is called Embarrass, and there is even a river that carries the same name. According to Wikipedia, its name is a French word meaning to impede, to obstruct, or to entangle. The lumberjacks gave it that name because their logs would get blocked because of the snags or debris in the river.  There are many people today who are afraid to ask Jesus for His help, even though they see that things are not flowing as they should in their lives. They see that things are impeding and hindering them from being what God wants them to be, but they will not ask Him for His help. The Syrophoenician woman was not embarrassed to ask Him to deliver her daughter from the devils, even though she was an outsider and knew that she may not be helped. But she believed that there was a chance or opportunity that Jesus would help her, and she was not disappointed.  Jarius, the Ruler of the synagogue, was not embarrassed to asked Jesus for His help with his daughter who was on her sick bed dying, even though he knew that the other religious leaders may chastise him for going to Jesus. We can’t be embarrassed to ask Jesus for His help when things aren’t going right for us. He’s already told us that we have not because we ask not. He said that everyone that asks receives. So, what are your needs? You don’t need to be embarrassed. Jesus would have never told us to ask Him if He wasn’t going to help us. David was a man that shows us not to be afraid to ask God for His help. Don’t be embarrassed to ask Jesus for His help, if you do it may impede your life.  

Sing: I need Thee, O I need Thee; every hour, Lord, I need Thee! O bless me now, my Savior, I come to Thee! 

Thought For Today: “For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels.” (Luke 9:26)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 14

The Army Goes Rolling Along

“And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and, behold, there stood a man over against him with his sword drawn in his hand: and Joshua went unto him, and said unto him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? And he said, Nay; but as captain of the host of the LORD am I now come. And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and did worship, and said unto him, What saith my lord unto his servant?” (Joshua 5:13-14) 

Today’s Morsel: Today, the US Army will celebrate its 250 years of existence. We call it the Army’s Birthday. Around the world, soldiers will celebrate this day with parades, unit runs, balls, parties, and even a day off. For over 250 years the US Army has proven time and time again that they are ready for whatever duty or task that they may be called upon to fulfill. They have fought for America and her ally’s freedom on every continent in the world. The US Army flag is filled with screamers reflecting every battle and conflict that she has endured. Many have worn her uniform with distinction and have represented her to the world. She stands as a torch for liberty, a beacon of hope for the wayward, and a light for all who are oppressed and tormented. When Joshau saw a man with His sword drawn ready for battle, he needed to know if the man was for them or their enemies. The answer that He received was, No, the man said, I am the captain of the host of the Lord. Be assured, God won’t allow you to fight your battles alone.

 Sing: Gods got an army, it’s marching through the land, deliverance is their song, there’s healing in their hand; with everlasting joy, and gladness in their heart, well in this army I’ve got a part.

Thought For Today: Happy Birthday, Army! Hooah!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 13

The Glory of Children

“Children's children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.” (Proverbs 17:6)

Today’s Morsel: This Sunday we will celebrate Father’s Day. It is probably one of the most important days of the year. Every creature living has a father. The role of a father is different than the role of a mother.  A father’s role is that he must be the head. The protector. The provider. The director. The same way that everything in the church flows from the head, so it is in the home. While the mother’s role is to be the keeper of the home, the father must set a good example when it comes to being the provider, teacher, trainer, developer, leader, and the overseer within the home. Children are always observing their fathers. That old saying that the acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree is true. Most children, one way or another, will take on the nature of their fathers.  What we see taking place throughout the world today is that Satan, along with his demonic force, is doing everything in their power to destroy men and fatherhood, and so much more the role and responsibility of fathers. You may ask why. It’s because man is to be a representation of Christ. And Satan doesn’t want anyone or anything that reminds him of Jesus. Homes are being destroyed for a lack of fatherhood. Churches are dying due to a lack of godly fathers and men. Our nation is slowly crumbling due to a lack of godly men. If the church is going to be successful in its mission, then she must have godly fathers who will follow the example of Christ, by becoming rooted and grounded in the Word of God and then pass that same Word on to their sons and daughters. When a man patterns his life after Christ, it gives the devil a headache! Come on dad, man up and fill your role.

 

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.

 

Thought For Today: You can still make a difference, dad.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 12

What A Friend We Have In Jesus

“A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.” (Proverbs 17:17)

Today’s Morsel: They say that friendship begins with the one that wants to have friends. True friendships are made over a course of a lifetime by encouragement, gratitude, and trust. It’s by you always finding something to encourage the other person about. Whether it be for their achievements, promotion, or health recovery, you find something to brighten their day. It’s also developed by you showing others thanks for the things that they do for you. Whether it be a meal, giving you a ride, or just keeping you informed, gratitude speaks volumes in developing friendships. And finally, there is trust. Friendships require trust. People often can detect trust if you do not have follow-through, or you do not prove that you are dependable. People want folks in their lives that they can trust. Scripture says that a friend loveth at all times. Think about that for a moment. At all times or always. Nothing stops a true friend from loving you. Even though Peter denied Jesus three times, and Judas betrayed Him for thirty pieces of silver, scripture says that He loved them to the end (John 13:1).  Jesus had not only proven Himself to be a friend, to His disciples, He has also proven Himself to be a friend to all those who call upon His name.  

Sing: What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer! 

O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer.

Thought For Today: Can Jesus and others count on you?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 11

Nothing Changes God’s Word

“For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” (Psalms 12:5-6)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever feel like life just keep throwing you curve balls that you just can’t hit? Do you ever ask yourself, What did I do to deserve what I am going through? Well, let me encourage you that no matter what chaos, trials, or trouble that may come your way, God’s word can be a comfort to you. Paul informs us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). So, spend time in it.  The Psalmist informs us that God’s word is our comfort in our afflictions (Psalms 119:50). So start hiding it in your heart. And Jesus tells us that heaven and earth shall pass away but that His word will not pass away (Matthew 24:35). So believing it and trust it. Having these promises, it ought to encourage us to seek and to holding on to the word of God more closely. God’s word has proven to be true and sustainable time after time. The old folks use to say, love it or hate it, it isn’t going to change. It was the spoken word that created all things, delivered Israel from bondage, and that can change the hearts of every man. There is just something about God’s word that will make even the meanest, nastiest, and wackiest person in the world change. Justice is even based on the word of God. Whether a person is found innocent or guilty, it’s going to be based on the word of God. Even though it may never be addressed as such from the bench by judges, they are rendering their decisions based upon it. All because God ordained it that way. So, let me encourage you today, no matter how bad it looks in your life and situation, God’s word will get you through it, if you cling to it. Success in life begins with a heart for the word of God. Find a scripture and speak it out.  

Sing: I lean on You Lord, I lean on You Lord, for the things that I need I lean on You. When I don’t know just what to do, I’ve got the faith You’re going to see me through. You supply my every need and I lean on You.

Thought For Today: “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.” (Joshua 1:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 10

Our Father

“And it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him, Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples. And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth. Give us day by day our daily bread. And forgive us our sins; for we also forgive every one that is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but deliver us from evil.” (Luke 11:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: When the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, He told them to begin by acknowledging God as their father and that His name was holy. When we acknowledge God as our heavenly father, it causes us to reverence Him for who He is in our lives.  The Father should represent the one in our life that we ought to be able to look to for spiritual guidance, direction, and wisdom. He must prove Himself faithful, available, trustworthy, honest, enthusiastic, and righteous. He must be the keeper of Bible standards of living, purity, and charity. God must be treated and respected for who He is, not for what He can give us and do for us. To address Him as Father, and to live as He is such, is to show others that He is sovereign, and that he has preeminence in our life. 

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.

Thought For Today: A Father is more than a sugar daddy.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 9

Protecting The Foundation

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

Today’s Morsel: The foundation for which we must build our lives upon is that of Jesus Christ. Paul states: “For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 3:11) What we build our lives and spiritual growth upon must be Jesus. As everything that we build and hope that will last must be based on Him and His word. Whatever we build, whether physical or Spiritual will be tested. We have seen over the past few years, that when Covid hit, many whom we thought had built, or were building their lives upon Jesus and His word, soon crumbled and fell. And sadly we have not seen them around the church since. While others who had built their lives on Christ and His word, are still just as strong or stronger as before Covid hit, and they are growing, and have even advanced more in their walk, relationship, and calling with God. The Psalmist asks if the foundation be destroyed what can the righteous do? What will you do if the church as we know it were to cease to exist? What would you do if you were commanded not to preach nor teach in the name of Jesus? Of if the church you attend could no longer have their weekly services?  What would you do if you were taken captive and commanded to denounce Christ as your Lord and Savior? Have you considered these things? Commitment to Christ doesn’t happen in the heat of battle. Commitment to Him begins at the onset of your calling.  Today is the day to make your calling and election sure.  

Sing: I have decided to follow Jesus, I have decided to follow Jesus; I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. 

Thought For Today: The gospel isn’t about you, it’s about Jesus.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 7

Pentecost

“And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: Pentecost was one of the three days that every male, twenty years and older, was to go to Jerusalem to worship. Pentecost was to commemorate the giving of the law. It was a celebration of the first fruits or first harvest. It was held 50 days after Passover. Jesus had told His disciples that they would receive power after the Holy Ghost was come upon them. He had instructed them to go to Jerusalem and to remain there until they had received it. Luke records that Jesus was seen 40 days by many infallible proofs after His resurrection (Acts 1:1-5). He also wrote of the disciples observing Jesus going back up into heaven after those 40 days (Acts 1:9-11). And now they returned to Jerusalem and dwelt in an upper room while they waited for the power that Jesus had told them that they would receive. And Luke wrote, “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”(Acts 2:1-4). Notice, they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. The initial sign of their infilling was speaking in tongues. This phenomenal event would not only change the lives of many on that day, but it would also begin and change the New Testament church, and the course of history. This miraculous power would cause men to turn their world upside down. They would become what some would call fanatical for a cause that didn’t make sense to many. It would cause the religious leaders who were not living and teaching truth to hate, despise, and say that this new sect was a cult. They would become so angry and irritated that they would create a posse to round-up, kill, torment, and bring to trial anyone found in this new way. Many would give their lives for this truth, while others would be willing to travel near and far to make Jesus Christ known. Pentecost was like throwing gasoline on a fire. Not only was it hot and blazing, it was setting on fire the lives of others who were also causing the flame to glow, burn, and spread. Pentecost was the fulfilling of Joel’s prophecies when he wrote:    “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. And I will shew wonders in the heavens and in the earth, blood, and fire, and pillars of smoke. The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and the terrible day of the LORD come. And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call.” (Joel 2:28-32) So the question now to you is this, have you experienced your own personal Pentecost? If not, you too can have this amazing life changing experience for yourself.  It is a promise that was made for all.

Sing: There shall be light in the evening time, the way to glory you shall surely find; through the waterway, it is the light today, baptized in Jesus’ name. Young and old repent of all your sin, and the Holy Ghost will enter in, the evening time has come, it is a fact that God and Christ are One.

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 6

D Day

“And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.” (Exodus 12:14)

Today’s Morsel: The same way that the Passover was to be a memorial forever to Israel of their deliverance, D-Day was to be a memorial to the French, and other European countries, of their deliverance from the evils of Adolph Hitler and the 3^rd Reich. Many soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines, along with the allied forces would be lost from this invasion. Thousands upon thousands of men and equipment would be lost on this day to make others free. The same way that the children of Israel were told that they must observe the Passover forever as a reminder of their deliverance, we must observe D-Day forever. While Passover is a reminder of God’s sacrifice for our deliverance, D-day is a reminder of the sacrifice by allied forces for the deliverance of others. And we should pause to remember those that gave their all to free others.  

Sing: This is the day, this is the day that the Lord hath made, that the Lord hath made. I will rejoice, I will rejoice and be glad in it and be glad in it. This is the day that the Lord hath made, I will rejoice and be glad in it. This is the day; this is the day that the Lord hath made.

Thought For Today: Freedom is not free!    

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 5

Blessings

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto Aaron and unto his sons, saying, On this wise ye shall bless the children of Israel, saying unto them, The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.” (Numbers 6:22-27)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever stop and consider the number of blessings that the Lord has bestowed upon you? God’s blessings may not be bestowed upon you by things such as building, homes, or finances, as some think that these are the blessings of God. These things are not an indication of God’s blessings. They may be, but there is no guarantee that they are. God’s blessing may take on other forms. Such as good health. Pure water to drink. A wonderful spouse or children. A good job. Gratitude shown towards you from others. Or recognition for a job well done. The Lord told Moses to speak to Aaron that when he blessed the children of Israel that he was to say unto them: “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them.” When we put God’s name upon us and our children in the waters of baptism, we are being adopted into His family, and the blessings start to flow to us. “And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed. So then they which be of faith are blessed with faithful Abraham.” (Galatians 3:8-9) The same way that God blessed Abraham, He will also bless us.

Sing: I am blessed, I am blessed, every day that I live I am blessed. When I wake up in the morning, till I lay my head to rest, I am blessed, I am blessed. 

Thought For Today: Blessings flow where the name is applied. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 4

 When God Requires An Offering

“And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering.” (Exodus 25:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: Sometimes in scripture we see that God will require of us to do certain things. When God requires of us to do certain things, it is not for His purpose, but for ours. For example, when God tells us to forgive others who do us wrong, it’s not for them it’s for us; as God knows that if we harbor bitterness in our heart, it will take root and can cause us stress, depression, fear, and anxiety, and may even cause us to harm someone. When He tells us to have no other God before Him, it is not that God is concerned with His identity, it’s for our good as other gods will cause us to turn our hearts from truth and the living God and serve devils, which will lead us into hell. So, when God commanded Moses to tell the children of Israel to bring Him an offering, it was not for Him, but for them. He informs them why He wanted them to bring Him an offering: “And let them make me a sanctuary; that I may dwell among them.” (Exodus 25:8) It was for them to have a place where they would always know that God was with them, as man will more times than not walk by sight and not by faith. When you give your tithe and offerings to God, it’s not for Him, it's for you, so that you will always know that your church is a place where God will meet with you, if the truth is taught and where his name is proclaimed.

Sing: Taking this offering that I bring, humbly I fall on my knees; to proclaim You’re everything. My life’s nothing without You, take my hand and lead me through, You are my sustaining love. I live to worship you. I live to worship You. 

Here I am to worship You, with all I am, worshiping You, bowing down in spirit and truth, with lifted hands worshiping You. 

I’m gonna worship You forever, I’m gonna worship You.

I’m gonna worship You forever, I’m gonna worship You.

I’m gonna worship You forever, I’m gonna worship You.

I’m gonna worship You forever, I’m gonna worship You

Here I am to worship You, with all I am, worshiping You, bowing down in spirit and truth, with lifted hands worshiping You. 

 

Thought For Today: Giving is a form of worship you know!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 3

 God Will Provide Himself A Lamb

“And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he said, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of. And Abraham rose up early in the morning, and saddled his ass, and took two of his young men with him, and Isaac his son, and clave the wood for the burnt offering, and rose up, and went unto the place of which God had told him. Then on the third day Abraham lifted up his eyes, and saw the place afar off. And Abraham said unto his young men, Abide ye here with the ass; and I and the lad will go yonder and worship, and come again to you. And Abraham took the wood of the burnt offering, and laid it upon Isaac his son; and he took the fire in his hand, and a knife; and they went both of them together. And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering? And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.” (Genesis 22:1-8)

Today’ Morsel: Having just completed the Passover or the Resurrection of Christ, we see that according to Exodus 12, the children or Israel were to take a lamb of the first year, kill it, and put the blood on the doorpost to avoid death of their first born. This day was to serve as a reminder of their deliverance from bondage. Throughout scripture, Jesus is referred to as the Lamb of God. During Easter, or the Resurrection, we sang many songs about the Lamb of God, the blood, and His resurrection. Abraham gave birth to Issac in his old age. This was a promise made to him by God that his seed would be blessed through Isaac. But now, God desire to prove Abraham to see if he loved Him more than his promise (my wording). When God tells him to offer his promised son as a sacrifice, Abraham doesn’t waver at what God asks of him to do. Why? Because God had already proven to Abraham that He is true, and that He will keep His word. Scripture says: “For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee.” (Hebrews 6:13-14) Abraham knew that if he killed Isaac, God would have to raise Him up to fulfill what He had told Him.  There is none greater than God. He can only swear by Himself. So if God tells you He is going to do something, take it to the bank, as it will come to pass. Scripture also tells us: “By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac: and he that had received the promises offered up his only begotten son, Of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: Accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure.” (Hebrews 11:17-19) Isaac was a figure of Jesus Christ. God’s only begotten son.  When Isaac asks where the lamb was for the sacrifice, Abraham tells him that God would provide Himself a lamb. Did you catch those prophetic words from Abraham? God will provide Himself a lamb. John informs us in the book of Revelation: “These shall make war with the Lamb, and the Lamb shall overcome them: for he is Lord of lords, and King of kings: and they that are with him are called, and chosen, and faithful.” (Revelation 17:14) In scripture, we see God in many forms, but none like the Lamb slain from the foundation of the earth. Who do you say that Jesus Christ was and is?

Sing: Your only Son, they crucified, they laughed and scorned Him as He died. The humble King, they named a fraud and sacrificed the Lamb of God.

Oh, Lamb of God, sweet Lamb of God, I love the Holy Lamb of God. Oh wash me in Thy precious blood. My Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God.

Thought For Today: “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.” (Revelation 21:22)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 June 2

 Is It Time For You To Flee?

“Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” (2 Timothy 2:22)

Today’s Morsel: Lust has been defined as an intense, often uncontrolled, desire, particularly as a sexual desire, that is directed towards something that is not in accordance with God’s will or something that is harmful.  It involves a craving for pleasure, gratification, or possession, often at the expense of others or in disregard of ethical or spiritual principles.  It often involves ignoring God’s will, disrespecting others, or acting selfishly in pursuit of personal desires. In writing to the church at Rome, Paul writes and informs, “What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet.” (Romans 7:7) When we covet after forbidden things, it can drive us to lust after them. God’s word ought to open our understanding and control us so that we do not do harm to ourselves or others because of our cravings. We must not allow lust to take root in our minds. As Isaiah said, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:” (Isaiah 26:3-4) God will help us, but we must want Him to.  The apostle John cautions us, “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” (1 John 2:15-17) We must not allow our flesh, eyes, and selfish-pride, cause us to err after pleasure, profit, or personal gain. After such a great leadership and victory, Gideon asked the people to give him an earring of their prey.  And he made an ephod, and put it in his city, even in Ophrah: and all Israel went thither a whoring after it: which thing became a snare unto Gideon, and to his house (see Judges 8:22-28) We must also flee youthful lusts: And follow after righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

Sing: Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this world, will go strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.

Thought For Today: “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren.” (James 1:13-16)