Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 13

It’s Time To Hear Again

“He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” (Revelation 2:7)

Today’s Morsel: I don’t know if you have noticed it or not, but it seems as though many people are having trouble with hearing. For some reason, many have lost their hearing or have a decrease in hearing due to a prolonged period of exposure to loud noises or other medical issues. Just about every day, I receive an ad in the mail about hearing aids and hearing loss. When it comes to the church, Jesus wants us to hear what He is saying to us, as many do not hear what is being said due to distractions, hardness of heart, and cares of this life. If you ask most people what was preached or taught by the minister or pastor the previous Sunday, they can’t tell you. If you ask them how what was preached or taught apply to their life, they can’t tell you. Sadly, in most case they did not hear or understand. Granted, there may be many factors that can prevent hearing. The minister’s mannerism can distract from hearing. Using Greek and Hebrew words that confuse the listener; degrading comments; are a few examples of what can distract the hearer. Jesus wants us to hear what His Spirit is saying to His church. When His church doesn’t hear, it can easily be deceived and led away. Jesus said, My sheep know my voice, and I am known of them and another they will not follow. If you can’t tell someone what was said, you didn’t hear. I’m sure you’ve heard the adage, “I know you think that you heard what I said, but I don’t think you understood what I meant.  Jesus told His disciples to go teach and baptize in His name (Mark 16:15-20, Luke 24:47). He didn’t say in the names of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, He said in the name. “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost:” (Matthew 28:19) When we read the book of Acts and the Epistles, we can clearly see and hear that the name for baptism is in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, as there is no other name given to us whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12). Is it time to hear again?

Sing: Go tell it on the mountain, over the hills and everywhere, go tell it on the mountain that Jesus Christ is born.

Thought For Today: “These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” (John 15:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 12

Esteeming Others

“If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, Fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” (Philippians 2:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: In most of his letters to the church, the apostle Paul calls for others to esteem others better than themselves. I think Paul does this to keep others humble and without self-exaltation. You see, it’s easy to look down on others when we forget where we came from, and we may think that we have arrived. Abraham Lincoln, Americas 16^th President, stated that when we reach the top we should turn around and help someone else up. In other words, help others to achieve and get where you are. Keep in mind, any rewards, diplomas, or accolades you receive, you did not do it all own your own. Somewhere, someone else help you with your achievements. Whether it was a teacher sharing the lessons with you, a fellow student working and helping you, your parents paying for your schooling, or you got a grant, someone helped you. Esteeming others doesn’t’ mean that you are less than others, it simply means that you have a heart to help others achieve and accomplish their goals and to better themselves.

Sing: I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shores; 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.

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 11

Speaking With Compassion

“Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” (Philippians 4:1)

Today’s Morsel: Having compassion can make a difference in the life of others. How we use our compassion may be the life or death of someone. Compassion, in a sense, is like the trait of tact. Knowing what to say and how to say it without offending someone and yet get your point across to bring about change is essential. If you will notice, even though Paul’s letters to the churches are sometimes curt and cutting, as you read them, you will find that he has a deep spirit of compassion and empathy in his writings to his readers. “Therefore, my brethren dearly beloved and longed for, my joy and crown, so stand fast in the Lord, my dearly beloved.” (Philippians 4:1) This is how we all, as born-again believers, must be. Filled with compassion. Jude calls for us: “And of some have compassion, making a difference:” (Jude 1:22) As Paul said, we must speak the truth in love. If you want to make everlasting friends, let compassion become your daily guide. 

Sing: You’re my brother, you’re my sister, so take me by the hand, together we will work until He comes. There’s no foe that can defeat us, when we’re walking side by side, as long as there is love we can stand.

Thought For Today: Compassion … The cure for the broken and lonely heart of others.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 10

Looking For A Place That Is Safe?

“The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” (Proverbs 18:10)

Today’s Morsel: It seems that it was just a few years ago that America and the world’s streets and neighborhoods were safe places. You could hitchhike along the road and people would pick you up and take you safely to your destination. You could leave your home, car, and barn unlocked and no one would take your car nor enter your home or barn without your permission. So, what has happened? What has happened is, we have allowed the prince of this world and its corruptness, murder, lies, backbiting, sexual promiscuity, and lawlessness, to become a part of the family and we have invited it right into our homes through television, radio, sports, and social media, which has corrupted the minds of children and adults alike, causing them to think that gain is godliness. And now Satan and his evil ones rule the neighborhood and streets. Paul tried to warn us when he wrote under the unction of the Holy Ghost, “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7) So, are there any safe places anymore? Yes, you can always find a safety in Jesus. But it will require you to trust Him and believe in Him to know that He is there and that you are under the shadow of His wings. He will protect you and keep you safe, even in these perilous time. 

Sing: Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine! O’ what a foretaste of glory divine! Heir of salvation, purchased of God; born of His Spirit, washed in His blood. This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long. This is my story, this is my song, praising my Savior all the day long.

Thought For Today: “Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice.” (Psalms 63:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 9

24/7 Peace of Mind

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

Today’s Morsel: The loss of peace seems to have invaded the life and homes of so many. Like Little Bo Peep, who lost her sheep and didn’t know where to find them, many have lost their peace and don’t know where to find it. They keep looking, yet in all the wrong places. Isaiah tells us where we can find it. “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) Your peace is only found in the Lord Jesus Christ, as He is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6) You see, we can forfeit a lot of the things that we need, like peace, contentment, and joy, in our life, if we don’t keep Jesus in His rightful place and as priority one in our life. Scripture tells us that without Jesus we can do nothing (John 15:5). Paul states: “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;” (Ephesians 2:14-15) If we want 24/7 Peace of Mind, then we must stay focused on Jesus, and allow Him to keep us in perfect peace.

Sing: Peace of God, cover me, through the storm cover me. Peace of God, cover me, through the storm, cover me. Cover me when I’m hurting, cover me when I’m not strong, cover me when I’m going through the storm! Cover me when all seems hopeless, cover me when my faith is gone, let the peace that passes all I understand, so cover me.

Thought For Today: “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means. The Lord be with you all.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 8

Throw Out The Lifeline

“And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore. And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land.” (Acts 27:39-44)

Today’s Morsel: There have been many people who have stated that they feel as though they are drowning in their day-to-day duties and activities, and that they don’t seem to be able to keep their heads above water. When you hear this from folks, it’s time to throw them a lifeline. Whether you realize it or not, we are not only called to be servants and witnesses, but we are also called to be lifeguards. We can be someone else’s support that will enable or allow them to continue doing what they are doing without them going under. Paul became the lifeline to those who were sailing with him to Rome when they encountered a major storm during their ordeal at sea. Luke wrote: “And when the south wind blew softly, supposing that they had obtained their purpose, loosing thence, they sailed close by Crete. But not long after there arose against it a tempestuous wind, called Euroclydon. And when the ship was caught, and could not bear up into the wind, we let her drive. And running under a certain island which is called Clauda, we had much work to come by the boat: Which when they had taken up, they used helps, undergirding the ship; and, fearing lest they should fall into the quicksands, strake sail, and so were driven. And we being exceedingly tossed with a tempest, the next day they lightened the ship; And the third day we cast out with our own hands the tackling of the ship. And when neither sun nor stars in many days appeared, and no small tempest lay on us, all hope that we should be saved was then taken away. But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me.” (Acts 27:13-25) Paul wanted them to know that even though they had not listened to him, everything was going to be alright and that they should eat and take comfort. He became their lifeline by his encouraging words. They had lost hope, Luke said. But Paul threw them a lifeline. Be of good cheer! And we read that even though the ship did crash and break into pieces, they all escaped safe to land. Some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. (Acts 27:44) That battered ship also became their lifeline.  You can be a lifeline for others. Just listen and be ready when you hear that defeated cry. Jesus will show you what you can do to help someone else.  

Sing: Throw out the lifeline! Throw out the lifeline! Someone is drifting away. Throw out the lifeline! Throw out the lifeline! Someone is sinking today.

Thought For Today: “And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” (Jude 1:22-23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 6

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.” (Matthew 5:1-12)

Today’s Morsel: One of the most important things about the Bible is that it requires you to make an attitude adjustment. If you are not going to adjust your attitude and yet think that you can make it into heaven without doing so, then stay away from the Bible. Jesus came to give us life. And that life requires life adjustments based on the word of God.  Natural thinking oftentimes doesn’t apply to the Bible; it’s a spiritual book and therefore you must think Spiritually. If you struggle daily with your flesh, it’s usually because you have not made the appropriate attitude adjustment. You must be led by the Spirit and not the flesh. After we obey Acts 2:38, we are risen to walk in newness of life. We set our affections on things above, not on the things of this earth.  You aren’t supposed to be the same person that you were before. You are now a new creature in Christ, and your attitude ought to reflect that. The Beatitudes were spoken by Jesus so that we would adjust our attitude to His teachings. Jesus wants us to be blessed. And part of receiving those blessings is having a life changing attitude. 

Sing: He touched me, o-oh, He touched me; and oh, the joy that floods my soul; Something happened, and now I know, Jesus touched me and made me whole.

Thought For Today: “No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 5

The Light

“Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.” (Isaiah 9:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: Of all the prophetic writings and prophets, none seem to lay the groundwork for the coming of Christ with truth like Isaiah. From the time that Isaiah got his vision of heaven, cleansing from the altar of God, and committed himself to be used by God, He’s given revelation of truth to share with the people of God. He states that light would shine in the places of darkness and death. Matthew cites Isaiah’s prophesy when he wrote:  “Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17) Do you remember the day that light came to you? Do you remember how He led you out of darkness and into His marvelous light? Paul states: “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son: In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:” (Colossians 1:10-14) Aren’t you glad the light has shined unto you?

Sing: Light of the world You step down into darkness, opened-up heart, and let me see. Beauty that made, this heart adore You, hope for the world became poor. 

So, here I am to worship, here I am to bow-down, here I am to say that You’re my God; You’re all together lovely, all together worthy, all together wonderful to me. 

I’ll never know how much it cost, to see my sins upon that cross; I’ll never know how much it cost to see my sin, upon that cross; so, here I am to worship, here I am to bow-down, here I am to say that You’re my God; You’re all together lovely, all together worthy, all together wonderful to me.

 Thought For Today: Jesus Christ is the light that gets you out of darkness. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 4

Feed Your Soul

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

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

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

Thought For Today: You better eat your Wheaties!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 3

Silence

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 2

Waiting On The Lord

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

Today’s Morsel: How long is your patience? Words such as patience, consistency, long-suffering, endurance, and commitment are words which we read in the Bible that let us know that we must have some grit and intestinal fortitude in our lives to stand strong and wait. I can remember, when my family and I were stationed in Italy. To own a telephone in your home would cost you over $600 installation fee, and then there was no telling what calls would cost if you called to someone in America, plus there were fees for each local call you made and received. We just could not afford it. So, the military offered us MARS calls. You could go to the USO, put your name on the list, and when it was your turn, you got about a 5-to-10-minute call with someone on the line listening to everything you said because you would talk and the operator would have to flip a switch so the person on the other end could talk and you listen. You see, Scripture tells us that God knows the things we have need of before we ever ask Him for them. And because God’s ways and thoughts are not as ours, we must learn how to wait for Him. Most folks don’t know how to wait for the things that they have need of. They want it now because they have allowed the world to invade their safe space and tell them that they need it now. The writer of Hebrews tells us, “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.” (Hebrews 10:35-39) He said that God will come through for us, we just need to learn how to be patient and wait for Him to show up. Don’t lose heart your answer is on the way.

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 December 1

Overcoming Discouragement

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

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

Sing: He gives strength to me, as I worship Him, as my heart is filled with praise.  Jesus breaks the bands, as I raise my hands; He gives glorious victory.     

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 29

Don’t Forget God

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

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

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

Thought For Today:  “But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day. And it shall be, if thou do at all forget the LORD thy God, and walk after other gods, and serve them, and worship them, I testify against you this day that ye shall surely perish.” (Deuteronomy 8:18-19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 28

Love Lifted Me

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

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

Sing: I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore. Very deeply stained within sinking to rise no more. But the Master of the sea, heard my despairing cry, and from the waters lifted me, now safe am I.

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

Thought For Today: “For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:7-8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 27

With A Heart of Thanksgiving

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

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

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

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

Thought For Today: Happy Thanksgiving!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 26

Thank God For The Blood

“For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” (Hebrews 9:19-22)

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 25

Jesus Use Me

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 24

Let’s Get Ready To Go

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 22

When Your Thanksgiving Finds Favor

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

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 21

Giving Thanks To God

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

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

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

Thought For Today: “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 20

Things Which We Ought To Know How To Do

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

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

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

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

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

4.   We ought to know how to worship God.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2025 November 19

Right Living

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

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

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

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

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