Morning Manna By Rufus Parker

2012 February 18 - Morning Manna

2012-02-18T00:00:00.000-06:00

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Today's Morsel: Temptation is the same for everyone. We are all tempted with the same temptations. I've had people say to me, it's easy for you to avoid temptation, you are a preacher. Wrong! It's harder for me in some cases, because I have to live what I preach. The Bible says in Hebrews 4:15: "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus was tempted also, He just made up His mind not to sin and we have to do the same thing. Hebrews 2:18 says: "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted" (Hebrews 2:18). Jesus gives us His Spirit to help us overcome the temptations that come into our lives. The way to defeat temptation is contentment. When we are content with who we are, what we have, and where we are, it makes it easier to see the temptations when they come and we can decide if we will give in or walk away. Paul said, There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able." You need to maintain a close walk with God so that when He speaks to you, you are able to listen and avoid the tempter.

Sing: When gloom and sadness whisper, you've sin no use to pray, I look away to Jesus, and He tells me to say.

I see a crimson stream of blood, it flows from Calvary, its waves which reach the throne of God, are sweeping over me.

2012 February 17 - Morning Manna

2012-02-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

"I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread" (Psalms 37:25)

Today's Morsel: What comes to your mind when you hear or think about being forsaken? Do you think of being deserted? Do you think of being abandon? Or do you think of being isolated? When we lived in Okinawa, Japan, members of the military would purchase a dog or cat for their children. Then when it was time to depart the island, many of them would abandon the pet and just leave them on the island to fend for themselves. Every day, children are being abandoned. They are being left with no one to care for them. When we look at the story of Joseph, he was hated by his brothers because he was his dad's favorite. First they cast him into a pit and left him for a while. Then they sold him into slavery. His master's wife accused him of trying to take advantage of her. He is then placed into prison. But God is with Joseph. I'm sure there were times Joseph felt forsaken. I'm sure there were times he felt that he would never see his family again. I'm sure there were times he felt he'd never see his beloved father again. Year after year! Month after month! Week after week! Day after day! Minute after minute! Each day he got to hear the prison door slam. Each day he got to see a new face. Feeling abandoned. But Joseph went about his daily task. Holding to his dream. Thinking to himself "One day." And one day Pharaoh cast his butler and baker into prison, they each had dreams and Joseph interpreted their dreams for them. Joseph told them, "When you get out, don't forget me. Say a word to the king for me." But they each forgot him. I'm sure that Joseph probably thought, "Yea, even they have forgotten me." But God hadn't forgotten him.

Minute after minute! Hour after hour! Day after day ! Month after month! A year passed! And then a year and a half! And a year and three quarters! Maybe Joseph was starting to feel forsaken again. Paul said: "But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father"(Galatians 4:4-6). My friend, don't think that God has forgotten you. Keep doing what you know to do that is right and you'll see that He'll come through for you the same as He did Joseph.

Sing: He'll do it again! He'll do it again! Just take a look at where you are now and where you have been. He has always come through for you, He's same now as then. You may not how, you may not know when, but He'll do it again.

2012 February 16 - Morning Manna

2012-02-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. (Genesis 39:1-7)

Today's Morsel: In school, we learned that a "homonym" is a word that is spelled or pronounced in the same way as one or more other words, but has a different meaning. For example the word "lie", it can mean to lounge, recline, or to sleep with; it can mean to deliberately say something that isn't true; and it can be the position of your golf ball on a golf course. But today, I want to use if from the second meaning, that of deliberately saying something that isn't true. Many people will fill out an application for a loan and ask you to cosign with them knowing that the information isn't true. Or when they fill out their tax returns, they may claim deductions that they know that they don't have and then ask the tax examiner to sign and send it in. There are many people who will "lie" with others just for self gratification or to cover up a sin. In a court of law, witnesses are sworn to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. And Jesus said that we were His witnesses (Isaiah 43:10). He said that the truth would make us free (John 6:32). As long as we are truthful and tell the truth, we remain free from sin and ourselves. Jesus told the parable of the unjust steward who had to given an account of his stewardship, and how he had the debtors to change what they owed. They were agreeing to "lie" with the steward. When Joseph would not "lie" with Potiphar's wife she lied on him. So those who you won't "lie" with, will "lie" on you. But all liars will have their part in the lake of fire, John said inRevelations 21:8. So no matter where the ball may lie, how you lie, and who you may lie with, or even if you tell a lie, be sure that your sin will find you out.

Sing: He set me free, yes, He set me free, He broke the bars of prison for me, I'm glory bound my Jesus to see, glory to God, He set me free.

2012 February 15 - Morning Manna

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Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (Hebrews 4:14)

Today's Morsel: A father told his son, "Son, I want you to hold this rope and don't let go, no matter what." Well, when the horse took off and was dragging the young lad, the father began to shout, "Son, let go." But the boy held on. When the horse stopped, the father said to the son, "Son, why didn't you let go?" He replied, "Dad, you told me that no matter what to not let go." You used to be able to tell some people's profession by the attire that they wore. I wish this was a true statement today. Even in the church, we are left to wonder. Are they really Christians or not? Are they really true laborers for Christ or workers of Satan? Paul said that we should hold fast our profession. In other words, the one who we confess to be ours, Jesus Christ, don't let go. We must hold fast to the truth of the Gospel message and proclaim it to a dying and lost world. Paul told the church at Galatia, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:6-9). And to the church at Ephesus, put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand. Peter tells us, " But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9). Our lives must reveal Him. How well are you representing your profession? A true Christians' life reveals Him in every way and at every turn. Not just Sundays.

Sing: This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light on mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

2012 February 14 - Morning Manna

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But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him (1 John 3:17-19).

Today's Morsel: Are you living what you say you are? Does your life really reflect you as a child of God? Do those around you know that you are a Christian and that you live each day for Him? You are not just to love only in word. Just telling someone you love them is not enough. It is through your actions, your attitude, your disposition, your mood, your spirit, that you reflect you love them. I’ve heard people say, "I have to love you, but I don’t have to like you." Can someone please explain this to me? Doesn’t liking lead to loving? When is the last time you looked your spouse in the eyes, held them tight and said, “I really love you?” When is the last time your brought them their favorite soda or candy bar? When is the last time you sent them a card in the mail, just to say hi and I love you? When is the last time you treated a co-worker to lunch or dinner? When is the last time you had someone other than a saint in your home for a meal? You see, our love is not just to be in word, but also in deed and in truth. What we do is what shows others that we are walking in truth and keep our minds pure before Him. It is not our words that show people this. Peter told Jesus he loved him, but then he denied him three times. It takes action to show the love of Christ in you. Let’s put it to work. Happy Valentines Day!

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

2012 February 13 - Morning Manna

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"Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father" (Matthew 20:20-23)

Today's Morsel: Sometimes we may ask for something we desire when we are in an emotional state, and because our minds are fogged with perplexity of thoughts, we don't hear and understand the reply from the one we asked when it comes back to us. And we may miss the meaning of what they say to us. We need to ensure our minds stay clear at all times. When Esau asked Jacob to feed him with pottage, and Jacob said to him, "Give me your birthright," Esau probably wasn't thinking it through entirely. Because of his emotions, he wanted what Jacob had at the time to meet his own want. Then later in life he realized his mistake. I've had people say, "I never agreed to that." Or, "I never said that I would do that." But when the papers they signed were shown to them, they said, "Oh, well I don't remember doing that." Too late now. When the mother of James and John asked Jesus to allow her sons to sit the one on His right and the other on His left in His Kingdom, Jesus told them "Ye know not what you ask." In other words, I don't think you know what you are asking me. You think this is just a cake walk with glamour and spotlight attraction. But this is really about denying yourself and taking up your cross and following Me. This is all about dying to live. This is about self-less service. This is about drinking a bitter cup. And then Jesus said to them, "Can you drink the cup that I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?" I think they misunderstood again. I think they may have thought, If we agree, then He'll give us these positions. I don't think James and John understood the meaning of what they were being asked. They agreed, but Jesus told them they would be baptized and they would drink the cup, but to sit on His right and left was not His to give. And then Jesus told them, it is for those who it was prepared for. And this is who it is prepared, for Jesus said: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:31-40). You can't do enough to earn your salvation, because it is freely given. There is a place prepared for us called heaven, but if you want to go there you have to keep your mind clear and stayed on Jesus.

Sing: Oh! There's a highway to heaven, none can walk up there, but the pure and heart. Oh! There's a highway to heaven, walking up the Kings, highway.

2012 February 11 - Morning Manna

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Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD (Lamentations 3:19-26).

Today's Morsel: Whether we know it or not, inside each of us is that spirit of compassion even though many may not display it. There are those times when we see things that happen, such as disasters, murders, shootings, robberies, and such, and it grips our heart strings and we cry. Crying doesn't mean that you are weak. I believe that crying is one of the ways that God has made us to express our inner feelings. In many ways, crying is a cleansing. The Bible says that even Jesus wept (John 11:35) and we are created in His image. Therefore, it isn't a bad thing to cry. Sometimes our crying are tears of joy, while other times they may be tears of sadness. But John,lets us know that one day those of us who will rein forever with Jesus, will have all of our tears wiped away. There will be no tears of sadness, loneliness, or pain for us, because those former things will all be passed away. Are you looking for that day? Jeremiah said that it is of the Lords mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Each morning God, renews His compassion towards us. His loving-kindness, mercifulness, sympathy and forgiveness come to us each day. The psalmist admonishes, "Lord if thou would judge iniquities who could stand? But there is forgiveness with thee that thou should be feared." Compassion. His sympathy towards us. His willingness to help us is renewed each and every morning. I wonder how many times each of us didn't get what we deserved because of His mercy.

Sing: Mercy there was great and grace was free, pardon there was multiplied to me; There my burdened soul found liberty, at Calvary.

2012 February 10 - Morning Manna

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For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
(2 Corinthians 5:14-21).

Today's Morsel: Let me ask you a few questions:

1. Did you repent of your sins when you got saved?

2. Did you get baptized in Jesus name?

3. Did you receive the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking with other tongues as the spirit gave the utterance?

4. Are you living a holy and separated life from this world and are you following peace with all men?

5. Is Jesus number one in your life?

You may say, shouldn't question number five be question number one. No! Because if you haven't did the first 4, question number 5 will never be question number one, then you are still out. Some people say that they are in, but really they are still out. You see, you are born into Christ, not signed into Him. Shaking the preacher's hand or filling out a membership form doesn't put you in Christ. Attending church every Sunday is not a guarantee that you are in. Even the religious folks in Jesus day went to church and were still out. Jesus called them vipers. He told Nicodemus that we must be born again of the water and the Spirit. Paul said that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away and behold all things become new. When we are in Christ, there is a totally different attitude about who we are and where we are heading. We become trees of life and our fruit produces life. So are you in or out?

Sing: Born again, there has been a change in me. Born again, just like Jesus said. Born again and all because of Calvary. I'm so glad, that I've been born again.

2012 February 9 - Morning Manna

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Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. (Hebrews 4:1-2)

Today's Morsel: The book of Hebrews is called by some the book of better things. The theme of this whole book is the word "Better". The word better appears 13 time in this book. Here are just a few: A better hope (Hebrews 7:19); A better testament (Hebrews 7:22); A better covenant and promise (Hebrews 8:6); A better sacrifice (Hebrews 9:23); A better substance (Hebrews 10:34); A better country (Hebrews 11:16). And the writer closes out the 11th chapter, which is the faith chapter, by saying, "And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect" (Hebrews 11:39-40). He said that God has provided some better thing for us. It is call the Holy Ghost! Nothing is better than the Holy Ghost. Because it is the Spirit of God within us. It is Christ in you, the hope of glory. It is the spirit of the true and living God. Many today hear the Word of God, but they have problems with believing. Faith is believing. Jesus said that all things are possible to him that can believe. So that lets me know that when I hear the Word of God, I have to mix my faith with what I hear in order for things to be better for me.

Sing: There's a country far beyond the starry skies, there's a city where there never comes a night, if we are faithful we will go there by and by, tis the city where the Lamb is the Light.

In the city where the Lamb is the Light. In the city where there cometh no night, I've a mansion over there, and we're free from toil and care, tis the city where the Lamb in the light.

2012 February 8 - Morning Manna

2012-02-08T00:00:00.000-06:00

Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? (Galatians 4:15-16)

Today's Morsel: Often when we hear the word "Foes" we immediately think of those who are our enemies. When we trace throughout history and wars, we could identify our enemies and those who were suppose to be our allies. But in today's wars, this spiritual battle, the enemy has become hard to identify. Some say that they are our allies, only to find out that they are our foes. And when it comes to the church, our enemy seems to be hard to identify. But Jesus said, you shall know them by their fruit. When Jesus told the parable of the wheat and the tares, scripture says, " Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn" (Matthew 13:24-30). Notice that Jesus said, that the enemy has done this; but let them grow together and in the end, I will gather the tares and cast them into the fire. "For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works" Paul said, (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). Yes, we have enemies. And yes, they are in the church. "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. 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 1:20-23).

Sing: I'm a soldier, in God's army, and I'm fighting, claiming victory. I will not give up, I will not turn around, I'm a soldier marching heaven bound.

2012 February 7 - Morning Manna

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The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. (Jeremiah 18:1-6)

Today's Morsel: The potter makes vessels. They take clay and pound it and smash it until it's soft enough to put on the potter's wheel so they can mold and make the desired vessel. He pounds it and adds water to soften it. The potter already knows what he desires to make before the clay is ever placed on the potter's wheel. But it's that initial process when he must work with the clay to get it to the right softness which will allow him to be able to easily form what he desires to make. Have you every prayed, "Lord put me back on the potter's wheel?" What about, "God, whatever it takes to make me more like you, do it." Sometimes in our emotions of hype in services, we can see those things in our lives that aren't like Him, and so we may present such a request. And when God obliges, we may wonder why the test. The Lord sent Jeremiah down to the potter's house so that he could view the potter. And then God told him that He could change Israel again if they would allow Him. The vessel is always in the potter's hand. The clay doesn't ask the potter what he's doing, even though it may hurt or be abrasive. We, like the clay, should realize that all things work together to the good to them that love God (Romans 8:28). Paul told Timothy, "But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (2 Timothy 2:20-21). God knows what He wants your life to be like, so let Him mold you into His image the same as he did Adam. "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Genesis 2:7).

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

2012 February 6 - Morning Manna

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Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. (John 7:16-17)

Today's Morsel: I'm amazed at the number of people who don't know the doctrine of Jesus Christ. Not only that, I'm amazed at the number of people who don't even know what their church believes and teaches. Yet, they will all tell you that they know truth. I'm not being critical here, but one would think that if a person is attending a church and call it their church, and that the personb that heads the assembly is their pastor, they would at least know his/her name and what they stand for. Paul said that we are to know them that labor amongst us. I've heard people say, those people are Oneness; or they are Trinitarians; or they are Pentecostal; they are Apostolic; they are Protestant; they Mormon; they are Catholic, etc. But what does all that mean when it comes to doctrine? Nothing. Doctrine is the basic teaching and belief that one holds to be true. Doctrine serves two purposes. First, to ensure you are in compliance with higher instructions, and second, to enforce the standard. As Paul told Timothy, "As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine" (1 Timothy 1:3), and to "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee"(1 Timothy 4:16). He told the church at Rome, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them" (Romans 16:17). Jesus said, "My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself." If anyone knew the doctrine of Jesus, it was the apostle Paul. So what was Jesus' doctrine? "And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high"(Luke 24:46-49). "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2:38-39). So it really doesn't matter what you call yourself, the question is, are you in the doctrine of Jesus Christ and His apostles.

Sing: Saved and I'm happy to day, thanks be to God, for this I can say, that I'm saved and I'm happy today, walking up the Kings highway!

2012 February 4 - Morning Manna

2012-02-04T00:00:00.000-06:00

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly. (Genesis 17:1-2)

Today's Morsel: The Encarta Dictionary defines "Perfection" as: the quality of something that is as good or as suitable as it can possibly be. Somebody or something that reaches the highest attainable standard, or an instance of this . Other words for perfection are: excellence, faultlessness, rightness, flawlessness, aptness and suitability. The word "Perfection" means to reach the highest attainable standard. To become complete. To mature. So what is the highest standard? To be like Jesus. The Lord told Abraham at ninety nine years old to walk before Him and be perfect, and that He would make the covenant between them and that He would multiply him exceedingly. Perfection isn't hard to obtain. It just requires us to purpose in our hearts to do what is right. It requires not compromising our integrity. Job was called a perfect and upright man because he retained his integrity at all cost. Perfection requires us to allow the Word of God to be living in our lives and that we walk the same as He walked (1 John 2:6). Paul said that God gave us the fivefold ministry for the perfecting of the saints. Since faith comes by hearing the Word of God, and we overcome by our faith, and without faith it is impossible to please God, if we are going to become perfect, we need to be in a place where Truth is preached and instructions to grow in Christ are highly encouraged.

Sing: To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, on earth I long to be like Him, all through life's journey, from earth to glory, I only ask to be like him.

2012 February 3 - Morning Manna

2012-02-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow? or hast thou seen the treasures of the hail, Which I have reserved against the time of trouble, against the day of battle and war? (Job 38:22-23)

Today's Morsel: Last year, a young lady from our College Crew said that she had to write a poem about the snow. I told her that I would write it for her. And so I did. She was so surprised that I did it. But she chose not to use it, because she knew that she couldn't turn in someone else's writings as her own. I told her that I really appreciated her integrity. Let me share what I wrote with you.

Have you entered into the treasure of the snow? With all its beauty, white, glistening, and all aglow?

One flake, two flakes, thousands and more, one flake upon another, compact together all of its kind when joined together the beauty we can all find.

When we join together as the beauty of snow, our unity is seen by those who may not yet know.

Snow is clean, pure, and white the way our hearts will be when we do what is right.

Have you entered in to the treasure of the snow? What treasure can there be? A pearl, a diamond, or a golden ring? No one really knows but our master and king.

I wonder what is hidden in the treasure of the snow? I'll just keep on searching until someday I will know.

Sing: He is fairer than the lily of the valley, He is brighter than the morning star, He is purer than the snow, fresher than the breeze, lovelier than all of these.

2012 February 2 - Morning Manna

2012-02-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging: And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it meant. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth passeth by. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should hold his peace: but he cried so much the more, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me. And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto him: and when he was come near, he asked him, Saying, What wilt thou that I shall do unto thee? And he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight. And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight: thy faith hath saved thee. And immediately he received his sight, and followed him, glorifying God: and all the people, when they saw it, gave praise unto God. (Luke 18:35-43)

Today's Morsel: Opportunity. How many times would you say that you have allowed the opportunity to tell someone about Jesus pass you by? An opportunity is a chance, an opening, a break, or prospect. We are all given the same opportunities when it comes to the things of God. But often we allow those opportunities to slip by. Someone said that opportunity only knocks once. Solomon said, "I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all" (Ecclesiastes 9:11). He said everybody has the same chance to win and be a winner. Scripture said of Jesus, "And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord"(Luke 4:16-19). Here was an opportunity for them to have every sickness healed, every weakness made strong, every problem solved, and every life restored. And yet, they kicked Him out. They let their opportunity pass them by. And the Bible said that He did not many miracles in His own hometown because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:58). What about you? Are you going to let the opportunity pass you by this year and not tell someone about Jesus. Are you going to let the opportunity pass you by to teach a home Bible study to someone? What about doing something in your church or supporting a missionary? Remember, opportunity only knocks once; so don't miss your chance.

Sing: I'll say yes, Lord, yes, to Your will and to Your way; I'll say yes, Lord, yes, I will trust You and obey; when Your Spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I'll agree and my answer will be yes, Lord, yes.

2012 February 1 - Morning Manna

2012-02-01T00:00:00.000-06:00

"And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her" (Ruth 1:16-18)

Today's Morsel: Many people today seem to have lost their commitment. We hear that divorce rates in the church are as close to or as high as that in the world. Why does it seem that there is little or no commitment to marriage vows? Why does it seem that too few are committed to the Gospel? Commitment always gives back to commitment. What would you say was the driving factor that made Ruth committed? Was she committed to her vows? Was her commitment to obey God's Word? Did her husband tell her about his home land and his people and she wanted to see it? Did she see that going to a new place would give her a better opportunity to start fresh and anew? Did she know that God was with the children of Israel? Just what drove her commitment to her mother-in-law? The Apostle Paul was a committed man. What would you say was his driving factor? What about Daniel being committed to pray? Or Joseph willing to run rather than to sin against God? Did they each make a personal commitment to God. Did Paul vow to preach the Gospel at all cost? Did Daniel have a personal agreement with God. Or was Joseph taught by Jacob, his father? All four of their lives were at stake, yet they still chose to continue on, why? They show us great commitment, yet believers today have such a hard time with commitment? What would you say that each of us can do to maintain our commitment to God and what He has called us to do? If you will notice all four of them first made a commitment to themselves. Results of commitment are usually in proportion to commitment. For example:

1. In our personal evangelism, we fail more for lack of commitment than lack of methods.

2. In our marriages, we often fail to keep commitments because what we made was not really a commitment, but only a "We'll give it a try" contract that virtually insures failure.

3. In our effort at personal improvement, we do not get any better results than we do because we make such watered-down commitment.

What commitment comes down to is whether we trust the Lord enough to obey Him.

Sing: I am determined to hold out to the end. Jesus is with me, on Him I can depend, for I know I have salvation, for I feel Him in my soul. I am determined to hold out to the end.

2012 January 31 - Morning Manna

2012-01-31T00:00:00.000-06:00

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

Today's Morsel: Gideon, like so many, was afraid to accept God's calling. Many fear failure, others fear of responsibility, while others fear having to tell others to do things, or peer pressure. Gideon was afraid of failure. When we look at the leaders that God chose, Joshua and David seem to be the only two that weren't afraid and who didn't try to find an excuse for why they couldn't do what God was asking them to do. Moses said that he had a speech problem. God said, Good you won't talk too much!! Gideon said, I'm the least in my father's house. God said, Good, that way when great things start happening, you won't be able to say you did it. ( My wording in these). When they asked where is Saul, "And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff" (1 Samuel 10:22). God said, He's hiding. God tried to encourage Gideon by calling him a mighty man of valor. He did miracles before him to let him know that He was going to be with him. And Gideon still kept trying to find an excuse. Fear will cause you to look for why you can't rather than why you can. Someone noted that an excuse is just an opportunity to be lazy, as the carnal person often offers an excuse instead of action. God will never use a person who offers excuses instead of availing themselves. It has be stated that there are two components of personal growth in the kingdom of God: First there is discovering your calling, and second, accomplishing your calling. God isn't going to call you to do something that you aren't capable of doing. So don't fear if He calls you, He will enable you.

Sing: Here I am, Lord, here I am, I give all myself to You, here I am. Here I am ,Lord, here I am, let your spirit work through me, here I am.

2012 January 30 - Morning Manna

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. (1 Timothy 6:6-8)

Today's Morsel: I was browsing through the web and came across these sayings and thought I would share them with you. After Eden we have never been fully satisfied with anything on earth. And we’re still not satisfied thousands of years later. We always want something different.

· If we’re young, we want to be older. If we’re old, we wish we were younger.

· If it’s old, we want something new. If it’s new, we want something newer.

· If it’s small, we want something bigger. If it’s big, we want something really big.

· If we have a hundred dollars, we want two hundred. If we have two hundred, we want five hundred.

· If we have an apartment, we want a condo. If we have a condo, we want a house. If we have a house, we want a bigger house. Or a new house. Or a
nicer house. Or maybe we want to scale down and live in an apartment again.

· If we have a job, we dream of a better job, a bigger job, a closer job, a job with a bigger office, a better boss, better benefits, more challenge, bigger opportunity, nicer people to work for and with, and more vacation time.

· If we’re single, we dream of being married. If we’re married, … (you can finish that sentence yourself.).

Did any of those fit your life? What would you say it's going to take for you to be content, if your aren't already? Paul said that if we have food and clothing we should be content. In other words, we should be satisfied and happy with what we have when we have it. We should always remember what Jesus said, "Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God" (Luke 12:15-21).

Sing: I am so satisfied! I am so satisfied, with my Savior; He means more to me, than anything, anything, that this world could ever offer me.

2012 January 28 - Morning Manna

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

Let brotherly love continue. Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body. Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge. Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me. Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever. (Hebrews 13:1-8)

Today's Morsel: Consistency is being able to maintain a particular standard without wavering. James said "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord. A double minded man is unstable in all his ways" (James 1:2-8). We are called to be consistent in our walk with the Lord. When others see that consistency, they will know that we are men and women of truth. When we are consistent in our faith, our conversation, our charity, our patience, our temperance, and our purity, it will be revealed to others. Jesus said, "Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth" (Luke 18:8)? Are you going to be consistent in your faith when He comes? Now is not the time for wavering, because our salvation is nearer than when we first believed. Stay consistent and everything else will be easy to accomplish. Even making it to heaven.

Sing: I'm going through, yes, I'm going through, I'll pay the price, no matter what others do; I'll take the way with the Lord's despised few; I started out with Jesus, and I'm going through.

2012 January 27 - Morning Manna

2012-01-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour (Ecclesiastes 10:1)

Today's Morsel: I just hate flies. They are noisome and a pest. There's something about them that just bugs me. They land on anything and carry all kinds of germs. Solomon said dead flies. I can't think of a better state for a fly to be than for it to be dead. Solomon said, that they cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour. Apothecary is a historical name for a medical professional who formulates and dispenses medicine to physicians, surgeons, and patients - a role now served by a pharmacist. The first mention of an apothecary was in the Book of Exodus (Torah and Old Testament) in which Moses was given instructions by God for the preparation of the holy anointing oil that was to be used for consecrating the Tabernacle. This anointing represents the Holy Ghost today in our lives. If dead flies got into the mixture that was being made, it would not send forth a sweet smell, but a stench; the same as sin in a person's life will cause it to send forth a stench. Sin causes one's anointing to stink. I don't care how full of the Holy Ghost one may say they are, if sin is there, that life stinks in God's eye. I don't care how good one may sing or play an instrument, if sin is in that life, it stinks. I don't care if one can preach like Paul, and knows the Word better than anyone else, if there is sin in their life, they stink. If there is sin in your life, you stink and you are worse than a dead skunk in the middle of the road, so roll up the windows and hold your nose. "Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any" Paul said (1 Corinthians 6:9-12). It's time for the church to get pure and stay pure, so they send forth a sweet smelling savor.

Sing: Lord, I come to lift up Your name. Lord I come, to give You all the praise. For You alone are worthy, of the glory and the honor, Lord I come, to lift up Your name.

2012 January 26 - Morning Manna

2012-01-26T00:00:00.000-06:00

And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things. And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is far passed: Send them away, that they may go into the country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves bread: for they have nothing to eat. He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat. And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat? He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they sat down in ranks, by hundreds, and by fifties. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes, he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes divided he among them all. And they did all eat, and were filled. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments, and of the fishes. And they that did eat of the loaves were about five thousand men. And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while he sent away the people. And when he had sent them away, he departed into a mountain to pray. And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of the sea, and he alone on the land. And he saw them toiling in rowing; for the wind was contrary unto them: and about the fourth watch of the night he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have passed by them. But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they supposed it had been a spirit, and cried out: For they all saw him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them, and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I; be not afraid. And he went up unto them into the ship; and the wind ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure, and wondered. For they considered not the miracle of the loaves: for their heart was hardened. (Mark 6:34-52)

Today's Morsel: What do you think causes people to have hardness of heart? Hardened is the state or quality of being tough and unyielding. The scary thing about a hard heart is that most people don't even realize that they have it. When they make comments that they don't believe the Bible or that Jesus isn't God or the Son of God, it's because their hearts are hardened. Paul said that if this gospel is hidden, it is hid to them who are lost and who the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them that believe not. For example, Jesus said, "A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear." Jesus wanted us to see that it is the matter of one's heart that is the determining factor if the Word will get in, take root, and grow or not. When a person isn't willing to forgive, it's because of a hardened heart. When a person is selfish, prejudice toward another, or who will not listen to wise counsel, their heart is hardened. Here are some examples of a hardened heart:

· You won't do the right thing.

· You struggle in your walk with God.

· You can't hear Jesus speaking to you.

· You can't hear Jesus when He draws near to you.

· You can't hear Him calling you.

· You can't perceive what God wants you to do.

· You can't understand the scripture.

· God never occupies first place in your life.

The Psalmist said, "O come, let us worship and bow down: let us kneel before the LORD our maker. For he is our God; and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand. To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your heart, as in the provocation, and as in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my work. Forty years long was I grieved with this generation, and said, It is a people that do err in their heart, and they have not known my ways: Unto whom I sware in my wrath that they should not enter into my rest" (Psalms 95:6-11). Don't harden your heart, it will keep you out of heaven.

Sing: Come, now is the time to worship. Come, now is the time to give your heart. Come, just as you are, to worship. Come, just as you are, before your God. Come.

One day every tongue will confess You are God. One day every knee will bow. Still the greatest treasure remains for those who gladly choose you now. Come.

2012 January 25 - Morning Manna

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-06:00

Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him: for they shall eat the fruit of their doings. (Isaiah 3:10)

Today's Morsel: Isn't it comforting to know that God has your best interest at heart? Are you are righteous person? You know, one of those that does right. Those that know to do good and do it. John tells us, "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous" (1 John 3:7). If God is righteous and we do righteousness, then we belong to Him (In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother 1 John 3:10). And if we are His, that makes us righteous and all shall be well with us. So stop worrying about stuff. It's going to be well with you if you're right. When Elisha asked the Shunmite woman whose son had died, "Is all well?", she said, "All is well." How could all be well when she was coming to tell the prophet that her son was dead? Because she was righteous. And the Lord said, "Say to the righteous it shall be well with him." John wrote, "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie. I Jesus have sent mine angel to testify unto you these things in the churches. I am the root and the offspring of David, and the bright and morning star. And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely" (Revelation 22:11-17). The only reason you should be worrying is if your are not doing right. Because then it's not going to be well with you.

Sing: When you see me singing, I just want to be right. When you see me testify, I just want to be right. When you see me giving God praise, I just want to be right. When you see me worshipping the Lord, I just want to be right. Be right, be right, be right, I wanna be right!

2012 January 24 - Monring Manna

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-06:00

"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: Isaiah 6 one of my favorite passages of scripture. Isaiah's vision of what he saw in the temple carries with it some very important aspects that men and women need to observe if they are going to be used by God, or if they feel a tugging at their heart and they don't know which direction to go in their calling. I have been asked by men and women (young and old) "How do you know that you are being called by God to the ministry or to missions?" And I tell them:

1. You will begin to feel a tugging at your heart by the Holy Ghost. Dreams and visions may become regular.

2. You will begin to feel an urgency to pray more, read your Bible more, study more, fast more, and give more of yourself to the things of God.

3. You will begin to sense an urgency for witnessing to everyone you meet.

4. The things of the world will start to become dimmer and the light of Jesus will begin to shine brighter.

5. Your love for the human race and a lost people will begin to grip at your heart, and you will begin to see that you may not be doing enough for the kingdom. Even though you may be giving your best, there will be something that keeps pulling at your heart saying, "Come on up higher and I'll show you what shall be here after."

6. Attending and being at church will become an urgency and you just can't wait to get to the next service to hear what the message will be for you to obtain more wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.

God desires to use each of us the same as He did Isaiah, but we have to be willing to say as Isaiah did, "Here am I Lord, send me."

Sing: Jesus use me, 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.

2012 January 23 - Morning Manna

2012-01-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough: The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough
(Proverbs 30:15-16).

Today's Morsel: There seems to be so many today that aren't satisfied with who they are, where they are, and what is taking place in their lives. When people aren't satisfied, they start looking for change. There just seems to be so much dissatisfaction in our world today. Not only in the world, but the church doesn't seem to be satisfied with who they are. I mean, people are spending billions of dollars on trying to make themselves satisfied. We've gone from the old traditional church building look, to buildings that don't look like churches all to please and draw people. Many churches have adjusted their service times and method of preaching trying to satisfy people. Churches are spending millions on buildings to keep up with today's technology to satisfy people, instead of spending it to send the gospel to a lost and dying world. You can't please all the people all the time. People are people and they want the right place to live. They want to right environment. They want the right church. They want the right job, all to try to appease and satisfy themselves. But even when they locate the right place to live, the right environment, and the right church, they still aren't satisfied. Solomon said, "They that loveth silver and gold, shall never be satisfied." The Rolling Stones wrote a song entitled, "I Can't Get No Satisfaction." Are you satisfied? When we turn to Jesus, we should never be dissatisfied, because it is only He that can satisfy our soul.

Sing: Only Jesus can satisfy your soul. Only He that can change your heart and make you whole: He'll give you peace you never knew, sweet love and joy and heaven, too, for only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

2012 January 21 - Morning Manna

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. (Timothy 2:1-4)

Today's Morsel: It amazes me how many people will look at you when you stand and pray for your meal or for someone in public. Business owners won't stop you for praying in their establishments, because they want your money. I would love to see some of the people who are so against prayer here in America, get on one of the mid-eastern airlines and stand up and tell them that they can't prayer. When on these airlines, you don't get the safety briefing until they have showed you the Muslim prayer on the monitors for the people to say. Paul said that first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. How much time do you spend praying for your unsaved loved ones? How many dictators have been removed because of prayer? How many situations have been changed because of prayer? God can do more through our prayers than we could ever do with weapons or money. The battle isn't ours, it's the Lord's. God wants all people saved, so let's get our prayers flowing. Prayer can even change your situation.

Sing: Somebody's praying for you! Somebody's praying for you! When you feel you're alone and your heart would break in two, remember, someone is praying for you.

2012 January 20 - Morning Manna

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

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

Today's Morsel: When you became a Christian did you transfer your loyalty to Jesus, too? When the children of Israel came out of Egypt, many of them never transferred their loyalty to God. They wanted to return to Pharaoh and be under his leadership and bondage each time there was a challenge or hardship. Notice scripture: "And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt" (Numbers 14:1-4). They never transferred their loyalty. They wanted to go back. If you never transfer your loyalty to Jesus, each time you have a challenge or issue that you can't seem to find an answer for or know what to do, you will want to return to the world. Challenges and issues are for development and to see what you are made of, while also helping you learn problem solving techniques. When God called us out of darkness, we needed to come to Him with all of our loyalty, dedication, commitment and zeal no matter what uncertainty lies before us. If our God is great, and He is, and if God be for us, and He is, then when He brings us out, and says that He's taking us to a better place, we need to heed His warnings and fret not, because you can't serve two masters. "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage " Paul said (Galatians 5:1). If Jesus is your Master, then you need to let Satan go.

Sing: He brought me out of the miry clay, He set my feet on the rock to stay, He put a song in my soul today, a song of praise, Hallelujah!

2012 January 19 - Morning Manna

2012-01-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

And Abishai the brother of Joab, he was chief of the three: for lifting up his spear against three hundred, he slew them, and had a name among the three. Of the three, he was more honourable than the two; for he was their captain: howbeit he attained not to the first three. Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man of Kabzeel, who had done many acts; he slew two lionlike men of Moab: also he went down and slew a lion in a pit in a snowy day. (1 Chronicles 11:20-22)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the Army, I was sent to Alaska for Northern Warfare Training. This training was designed to train us and develop us for fighting our enemies in snowy, cold, and arctic weather and environments. I will tell you that this is one soldier who was glad when this training was over. I don't think I have ever fallen so much, eaten as much snow, and kissed as many trees as I did trying to learn to ski. Thank God for snowshoes and skis for moving in and through snow. It's tough fighting in this kind of environment. My son gave me a book for Christmas entitled, " In the Pit With A Lion On A Snowy Day." Even before I began to read it, the title grasped my heart and brought back memories of my training in Alaska. I thought to myself, "What kind of person would get into a pit with a lion on a snowy day?" A lion's paws are designed to prevent him from slipping in this pit, but not man's feet even with the proper footwear. The lion would already have the advantage. But then I thought to myself, "What was Benaiah trying to prove." Many people are doing just that. They are jumping into a pit with the enemy of their soul not realizing that he has the advantage. They are trying to fighting while standing in snow. Snow is slippery and mushy. You can easily fall and your opponent can obtain the advantage over you. Peter said that Satan is as a roaring lion and we can only defeat him by standing fast in the faith (1 Peter 5:8-9). So let me encourage you, if you decide to get into the pit and take Satan on, make sure you're prepared with the Word of God and that your faith is solid.

Sing: My God is so big! so strong and so mighty, there's nothing my God cannot do. My God is so big! so strong and so mighty, there's nothing my God cannot do.

The mountains are His, the rivers are His, the stars are His handy work too. My God is so big! so strong and so mighty, there's nothing my God cannot do.

2012 January 18 - Morning Manna

2012-01-17T23:16:00.002-06:00

Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.(Acts 2:38-39)

Today's Morsel: It has been stated that kids do not forget the things you tell them that you will do for them. And I know this to be true from firsthand experience. I have had each of my kids say to me, "Dad you said," or "Dad you promised" and I have to follow through. When Jesus told His disciples to remain in Jerusalem until they received the promise, (And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high) (Luke 24:49), they went to Jerusalem and waited for what Jesus said they would receive. And they were not disappointed because Acts 2:1-4 reveals that the promise was the Holy Ghost. Boy! What a promise. When Peter preached and told the people that the same promise that Jesus made to them was also for them and their children as well, some of them wanted it. When God makes us promises, He keeps them. The same way that Jesus didn't just die for those during the time He was on earth, but for us that would come later, and should the Lord tarry, for everyone else that will be born in years to come. The writer of Hebrews said, "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. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec" (Hebrews 6:13-20). Have you received the Holy Ghost since you have believed? It was promised to you by God over 2,000 years ago. God hasn't changed. His promise will always be there for you. Jesus said, "If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him?"(Luke 11:11-13). May I suggest that you ask Him for it.

Sing: I've got the Holy Ghost, down in my soul, just like the Bible says. I've got the Holy Ghost, down in my soul, just like the Bible says. And I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now, I've got to make it to heaven somehow, cause I'm so satisfied, Cause I've got the Holy Ghost living inside.

2012 January 17 - Morning Manna

2012-01-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another (1 John 4:7-11).

Today's Morsel: I've been pondering all the scriptures about love. God is love; For God so loved; If any man love not; Love is of God; Let us love; Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels and have not love; The greatest of these is love; Love covers all sin; Love worketh no ill; The fruit of the spirit is love; Greater love hath no man than this; Beloved, let us love; Husband's love your wife as Christ loved the church. Why is there so much emphasis in scripture on love? What is it about love that draws us to others. What is there that makes us say to someone else, "I love you?" Why can't we grasp this thing called love? I had someone ask me once, "How do I love someone who has done you wrong?" They said, "If my heart is broken, how can I love?" Why is love associated with the heart? The heart is your inner most being. It is the center of who you are. Why do certain things break our hearts? Why do certain words pierce like a sword? When we understand God, and that God is love, then we can understand all the sayings about love. What we really need to see to understand love is Calvary. God was willing to robe himself in flesh and to die for mankind to display what true love really is. Paul said, "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. 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 5:6-8). He goes on to tell us, "For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself" (Galatians 5:14). Love is really no more than putting others before you and doing your very best to allow who God is and what He has done for you show through you to others. If we do that, then divorces will decrease, abuse will diminish, and most people will get along and the church will grow. How's your love life?

Sing: Fill my way every day with love, as I walk with the heavenly dove; let me go all the while with a song and a smile, fill my way every day with love.

2012 January 16 - Morning Manna

2012-01-16T01:00:00.000-06:00

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. (Isaiah 40:29-31)

Today's Morsel: I asked a prison inmate, "What is the toughest thing that you've had to learn since you've been in prison?" To my surprise, he told me, Patience. He said that he knew that he had time to do, but it was going to take patience on his part to get through the tough times and times of uncertainty that he had before him. There are many people who do not have the patience to wait. Paul said, "But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it. Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God" (Romans 8:25-27). Patience is like character, it isn't developed in the heat of battle or a moment of crisis. It grows out of a steady application of moral values and ethical behavior in one's life. Patience grows when we trust in the Lord with all of our heart and lean not unto our own understanding. Patience grows when we allow the Word of God to be our light and our lamp. When we hide the Word in our heart, patience grows. When we are willing to say, not my will Lord, but Thy will be done, patience grows. Develop patience in your life before you need it!

Sing: Learning to lean, I'm learning to lean; I'm learning to lean on Jesus. Finding more power, then I'll every need; I'm learning to lean, on Jesus!

2012 January 14 - Morning Manna

2012-01-14T00:00:00.000-06:00

Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labour of the olive shall fail, and the fields shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will joy in the God of my salvation. The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet, and he will make me to walk upon mine high places. (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

Today's Morsel: If you had to give an account of your faith level, where would it fall on the scale if 10 was the highest and 1 was the lowest? I often wonder why Christians can't maintain the level 10 at all times. Why is it that some folk's faith is like the mercury in a thermometer. Up and down. Jesus said, "I would that you were either cold or hot." So how do we get our faith to stay at the level 10? First, we need to start trusting in the Lord with all our heart and not in our self and others above Him. Secondly, we need to understand that God's ways aren't our ways. He causes it to rain on the just and the unjust (Matthew 5:45). And thirdly, we need to get to the point in our lives that we know that God has our best interest at heart and no matter what comes our way God is working all things for our good. Habakkuk records that if everything that he depended upon failed, that it would not stop him from joying and rejoicing in the Lord. Because the Lord was his strength. Do you retain your joy and rejoicing if things begin to fail in your life? Have you allowed sickness or something else to decrease your faith level? If you maintain a 10 on your faith scale you'll have less time to focus on the pain.

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

2012 January 13 - Morning Manna

2012-01-13T00:00:00.000-06:00

When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me. Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake. Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake. He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?
(John 13:21-25)

Today's Morsel: I have heard many people say that once they reach heaven, the first thing they are going to do is ask Eve and Adam why in the world they ate the forbidden fruit. Then they are going to ask Paul how he was able to endure such pain and suffering. When Jesus said that one of His disciples would betray Him, they wanted to know who it was. So Peter asked John to ask Jesus who it was, since John seemed to be closer to Jesus. And so John said, "Lord, who is it?" Do you question who it is that keeps lying on you? Do you question who it is that every time you want to do good evil comes against you? Do you question who it is that seems to know everything you are going to do before you do it? John seemed to be close to Jesus. He is called the disciple whom Jesus loved. He is the disciple who is exiled to the island of Patmos and given a glimpse into heaven and he is the writer of the book of Revelation. Our lives shouldn't be any different than John's. We should all walk as close to Jesus as we can, and be willing to lay on His breast and hear His heart beat. We should feel so close to Jesus that we can ask Him anything. "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus" (1 Timothy 2:1-5). The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)

Sing: Just to be close to you! Just to be close to you, is my desire! Just to be close to you! Just to be close to you, is my desire.

2012 January 12 - Morning Manna

2012-01-12T00:00:00.000-06:00

And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written. Amen. (John 21:25)

Today's Morsel: The invention of the computer has made it easier to store information and data. On such a small micro-chip you can now store gigabits of information, books, and other data. With a click of a mouse, one can locate and read everything about anything in the world.

There have been many books written trying to bring people into a relationship with Jesus Christ. Many of these books stress the remedy for stress, depression, rejection, loneliness, abuse, and hurting. Many books use stories from the Bible trying to encourage and increase the faith of believers and nonbelievers alike. And some try to bring you into a daily walk with God. John said, "And there are also many other things which Jesus did, the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that even the world itself could not contain the books that should be written." The world couldn't contain the books if all that Jesus did was written. The Bible has been condensed into one book so that each of us can get just enough of what Jesus did do to increase our faith and encourage us. From the story of creation to Calvary on to the letters to the churches are all one needs to see what Jesus has done. Many other things that Jesus did that aren't written, John said, because the world couldn't contain the books if they were. What would you say some of those things are? I know some: He saved me from a life of sin and shame; He found me worthy to put me into the ministry; He saved my life so many times I can't even tell it all. But He had Paul write in his letter, "Salute Rufus chosen in the Lord." (Romans 16:13). That's all I need to know to make me see He's for real!

Sing: There was a time on earth when in the book of heaven, an old account was standing for sins yet unforgiven, my name was at the top, and many things below, I went unto the keeper and settled long ago.

Long ago, down on my knees, long ago, I settled it all, yes, the old account was settled long ago, and my record's clear today for He washed my sins away, when the old account was settle long ago.

2012 January 11 - Morning Manna

2012-01-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus. And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified. (John 12:21-23)

Today's Morsel:During the Vietnam war, many entertainers would be brought by the United Service Organization (USO) to Vietnam to entertain the troops. Many of the troops couldn't wait to see Bob Hope, Martha Rae, and some of the others as they always made them laugh and forget the time of war.

Jesus often, made the comment that His time was not yet. In other words, it wasn't time for Him to depart out of this world, because some had not come to know Him and to seek after Him. But when the Gentiles came to Philip and said, "Sir, we would see Jesus", Jesus commented to His disciple, "The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified." He was saying that now is the time that I will be lifted up and depart out of this world; now is the time that I will reveal to you who I truly am. Now will the scripture be fulfilled which says, "And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that came down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven. And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:13-15). Many are still looking for Him today and it is up to each of us to reveal Him to them. Are you looking for Jesus today? Where have you been looking? Jesus said that you can find Him, when you search for Him with all your heart. When He's your desire and hope, nothing can stop you from finding Him.

Sing: Oh I want to see Him, look upon His face, there to sing forever of His saving grace, on the streets of glory, let me lift my voice, cares all past, home at last ever to rejoice.

2012 January 10 - Morning Manna

2012-01-10T00:00:00.000-06:00

Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden? And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden: But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die (Genesis 3:1-3)

Today's Morsel: Many times I have heard people say that Eve gave the wrong message to Satan when she said that God said that they should not touch the tree lest we die. Well, after looking at the scriptures, she did really botch the message. First, God never told them to not touch the tree, nor did He tell them that they could not eat of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden. God said, "Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die" (Genesis 2:16-17). God told them that they could eat of every tree freely, but the tree of the knowledge of good and evil they shouldn't eat of because they would die if they did. He never said they couldn't touch it, nor did He even mention anything about the trees in the midst of the garden. God just said to not eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. We have to make sure that we have the message right.

I've heard people say that they will baptize people based on what Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20 before they will do what the apostle Peter said in Acts 2:38. I'm sure Eve probably thought that she had the message right, too. But because Satan knew that she had already botched what God said, and she wasn't faccurate in relaying what God said, he was able to convince her that she would not die if she ate from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Because so many don't know what Jesus said, it makes it easier for Satan to convince them to take his bait. Well, he says, if you aren't for sure about how to be baptize and if it's even essential for your salvation, then you don't need the Holy Ghost to be born again either. All you need to do is just confess Jesus and you'll be saved. And because you aren't sure about your salvation and how to be saved, he tells you to do whatever you want, just do it in moderation and God will forgive you. Because Eve wasn't for sure, she ate, and gave to Adam and he ate and their eyes were opened and man has died ever since. Disobedience is sin, and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). "For if after they have escaped the pollutions of the world through the knowledge of the Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, they are again entangled therein, and overcome, the latter end is worse with them than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them. But it is happened unto them according to the true proverb, The dog is turned to his own vomit again; and the sow that was washed to her wallowing in the mire" Peter said (2 Peter 2:20-22). Make sure you've got the message right before you listen to Satan, because he will twist God's words if you aren't for sure.

Sing: I've got my foot on the Rock and my mind's made up, though I walk through the lowly valley though I drink from a bitter cup, when the devil comes a knocking trying toshow me an easier way, I stand right flat on my feet, I throw my head in theair, I look him straight in the eye, I say my foot's on the Rock and my mind's made up.

2012 January 9 - Morning Manna

2012-01-09T00:00:00.000-06:00

"This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit" (Galatians 5:16-25)

Today's Morsel: Every so often, I like to look up the Greek meaning for what some of the English words we read in the King James Version of the Bible mean. And so I looked up the word 'witchcraft'. The Greek word for 'witchcraft' was: pharmakeia, far-mak-i'-ah, medication(“pharmacy”), that is, (by extension) magic (literal or figurative): -sorcery, witchcraft. Notice Pharmakeia, from where we get out word Pharmacy. And then I looked up the word for Pharmacy, pharmakeus. far-mak-yoos' ,pharmakon (a drug, that is, spell giving potion); a druggist(“pharmacist”) or poisoner, that is, (by extension) a magician: -sorcerer. Somewhat surprised by the meaning, as I have always associated witchcraft with witches and Halloween, my mind began to wonder. I have noticed that throughout the world, all of a sudden, there has been a major increase in the number of places to dispense medications and prescription drugs. I began to ask myself if have we become blind to another one of Satan's tricks. Why does it seem that very few people trust God for healing any more. Everyone seems to be depending on medical professionals for their healing. And I've noticed that almost everyone that visits medical personnel seem to walk out needing to have some type of medication, or it is being recommended to purchase certain medications, pain relievers, or some health drug. Is witchcraft at work here? Is Satan up to his old tricks? I s he stirring up some evil brew? Is he camouflaging evil with good. Why are there so many children on medication at such an early age. Many people never review the side effects of drugs. Why are the elderly being pulled in with drugs for sexual gratification? Why are so many people being diagnosed with the same conditions when they are sick. Does one sickness fit all? Is there something hidden here? Jude cautions us, "But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life" (Jude 1:17-21). Peter cautions us: "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world" (1 Peter 5:8-9). Are you keeping yourself in the love of God and walking in the spirit? Are you being cautious? "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ," Paul said (2 Corinthians 11:3). Stay focused, my brethren.

Sing: Greater is He that is in me, greater is He that is in me, greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.

Satan's like a roaring lion walking to and fro, seeking whom he may devour, the Bible tells me so. Many souls have been his prey to fall in some weak hour, but God has promised us today, His overcoming power.

Greater is He that is in me, greater is He that is in me, greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.

2012 January 7 - Morning Manna

2012-01-07T00:00:00.000-06:00

O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; shew forth his salvation from day to day. (Psalms 96:1-2).

Today's Morsel: What songs do you sing when you are hurting, sad, or lonely? The psalmist said to sing unto the Lord a new song. I don't think God wants to hear the old songs of murmuring and complaining. I don't think He wants to hear me mourning over my troubles. I don't even think He wants to hear me singing about Moses going down into Egypt's land and telling old Pharaoh to let His people go. He doesn't want to hear my singing the blues! The problem with some so called gospel and contemporary gospel music today is it doesn't proclaim the gospel. It seems to only elevate one's self. If it's called a gospel song, shouldn't the lyrics mention the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Shouldn't Jesus be the main focus in the song? Has the blood lost its power? Doesn't the old rugged cross still make a difference? Isn't there still victory in Jesus? Isn't Jesus still the sweetest name you know? Didn't He call you friend? So what happened to, " What a friend we have in Jesus?" Isn't the church going to move up higher one day? Didn't Jesus say that in the last days He would pour out His spirit upon all flesh? So what happened with the song, "Baptize me Jesus with the Holy Ghost?" Why do we only sing "O' come all ye faithful" at Christmas time, and "Christ Arose" at Easter? Maybe that's why we only see some people at church on Christmas and Easter. I guess that's why they come during those days as they see themselves as being faithful. They're CEOs - Christmas and Easter Only (my humor). You see, the old songs had a message with them. They were called gospel songs because when you sang them, they lifted up Jesus and gave you strength to endure the trials and situations you faced on a day to day basis. They caused you to realize what Jesus has done for you, while giving you hope for tomorrow. If you are battling depression or sickness in your soul these days, and if you listen to the songs that are called gospel music today, you are going to be more depressed because the instruments often over-power the words and you can't hear what is being said. And if you do hear the lyrics, they often talk about how the singer feels rather than the power of Jesus in a person's life. Jesus didn't record in His word to "not remove the old landmarks which your fathers sat up" for nothing. I believe that that may even include our music. So let me encourage you, let's go back to the old land marks and get Jesus back into our singing. After all, only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Sing: Only Jesus can satisfy your soul; only He can change your heart and make you whole: He'll give you peace you never knew, sweet love and joy and heaven, too, for only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

2012 January 6 - Morning Manna

2012-01-06T00:00:00.000-06:00

"Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee. My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever" (Psalms 73:25-26)

Today's Morsel: Health issues seem to take center stage these days. Many people are sick and don't know what the causes are. Many want answers to their ailments, but don't seem to be able to locate the solution to their problem. The Psalmist said, "My flesh and my heart faileth." Was he sick? Was his mind troubled? Were there things that were coming against him that he didn't understand? Job said that that thing which he greatly feared had come upon him ( Job 3:25-26). Our flesh is not designed to last forever. Peter tells us that this earthen tabernacle (tent) must one day fold up. "Knowing that shortly I must put off this my tabernacle, even as our Lord Jesus Christ hath shewed me"(2 Peter 1:14). Even Moses told us, "The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away" (Psalms 90:10). So no matter the pain, suffering, aliments, and even infirmities, that may bring with it a lack of strength, vitality and weakness, we still need to say as the Psalmist, "Whom have I in heaven but thee? and there is none upon earth that I desire beside thee... for God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever."

Sing: God is the joy and the strength of my life, removes all pain, misery and strife, He promised to keep me, never to leave me, He'll never ever come short of His Word. I've got to fast and pray, stay in the narrow way, I'll keep my life clean every day, I want to go with Him when He comes back, I've come too far and I'll never turn back.

God is, God is, God is, God is my all in all.

2012 January 5 - Morning Manna

2012-01-05T00:00:00.000-06:00

As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man. (Proverbs 27:19)

Today's Morsel: What do you see in yourself each time you look in the mirror? Do you see yourself as useless or hopeless? Have you allowed what others have said about you to cause you to see yourself in a different view than how God sees you? I believe that if we would each see ourselves as God sees us, as His creation, and not what others may call us or say about us, we would have fewer people visiting psychiatrists, fewer people with low self-esteem, fewer people on drugs and alcohol, and fewer people committing suicide. Solomon said that as face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man. In other words, how you see yourself by looking in the water is the same way it's going to be with how you think about yourself. "For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he" (Proverbs 23:7). If you allow what people say about you to take root in your life, it's going to affect you. If you listen to any negatives others say, you will always be weary when you are around them. Believe me, it doesn't matter where you were born, the color of your skin, your national origin, your family heritage, or your past; if you see yourself as a child of God, you will be able to say as the apostle Paul, "If God be for us, who shall be against us!"(Romans 8:31). "Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is" John said (1 John 3:1-2). Do you see yourself for what God calls you, or what others do? You can stand on the truth or on a lie. It's your call.

Sing: I see Jesus in your eyes and it makes me love you. I see Jesus in your heart, and I know He cares. I hear Jesus in your speech and it makes me listen. I see Him in you.

2012 January 4 - Morning Manna

2012-01-04T00:00:00.000-06:00

In that day shall there be upon the bells of the horses, HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD; and the pots in the LORD'S house shall be like the bowls before the altar. Yea, every pot in Jerusalem and in Judah shall be holiness unto the LORD of hosts: and all they that sacrifice shall come and take of them, and seethe therein: and in that day there shall be no more the Canaanite in the house of the LORD of hosts. (Zechariah 14:20-21)

Today's Morsel: When we were missionaries in Okinawa, our church had a bell choir. The children in the Bell choir had different colored bells that they rang on cue during the song. Each bell rang out a specific note for the song. It was fun to watch the kids in anticipation, hoping not to ring their bell at the wrong time. I received a letter the other day from the Salvation Army, asking for churches in the community to be "Bell Ringers" during the Christmas season. I've always wanted to do this, and so I thought we would take them up on it - let the ringing and singing begin.

Here in Wisconsin, it's usually cold during December and at Christmas, and even the horses that will pull sleighs will have on them bells for warning as well as for decoration. Zechariah said that even the bells upon the horses where to be inscribed with the words "Holiness unto the Lord." We are called to be holy. The breastplate upon Aaron, the high priest, was to be inscribed with the words "Holiness unto the Lord," and the hem of his garments were to have bells in them. Everything that we have should be considered as holiness unto the Lord, and our lives should ring of His holiness within us.

Sing: Jingle bells, Jingle bells, jingle all the way, O' what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh; Jingle bells, Jingle bells, jingle all the way, O' what fun it is to ride in a one horse open sleigh. HEY!

2012 January 3 - Morning Manna

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

For what thanks can we render to God again for you, for all the joy wherewith we joy for your sakes before our God; Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face, and might perfect that which is lacking in your faith?

(1 Thessalonians 3:9-10)

Today's Morsel: Paul said that the Lord has dealt to every man the measure of faith (Romans 12:3). The Greek word for "measure" is Metron; which is your portion, degree. It is the rate that we all have. So what you do with your "Metron" is up to you. Some people's faith is strong. Other's are semi-strong. And still other's are weak.

If God has given every man the measure of faith, what is the difference in these three types?

Ø Someone with strong faith have followed Peters advice and they have given all diligence, they add to their faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For they know, that if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. (emphasis mind 2 Peter 1:5-11)

Ø Someone with semi-strong faith have the Word within them, but, like the seed that fell on stony soil in Luke 8, they don't have any roots within themselves. In other words, they live a shallow Christian lifestyle. They see church and the things of God as a need to, but they allow other things to prevent them from doing what they know they ought to do. There is a blockage in their heart.

Ø Someone with weak faith knows what they ought to do, but they don't do it. It's the person who doesn't see themselves as worthy to step forth to do anything for God. It's the person who allows the cares of this life to choke the Word out of them. A person with weak faith wants everyone else to tell them how to live, what to do, and make the decisions for them instead of studying the Word and figuring things out for themselves. For this person to trust God is too far reaching. They are more prone to sleep in church and allow themselves to fade in and out instead of pushing themselves to listen. They are missing some ingredients in their faith. Their faith is like bread without yeast, it can't rise. Paul said that a little leaven leaventh the whole lump. Paul is referring to sin in a life; but I want to use it in relationship to increasing one's faith. If you can find the ingredient that is missing in your faith, you can cause it to rise and you can have great faith. As it is with all faith to be perfected, James said, that it takes works. Because without works, your faith is dead being alone.

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

2012 January 2 - Morning Manna

2012-01-02T00:00:00.000-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. (Matthew 7:15)

Today's Morsel: There is a movie entitled "Dancing With Wolves." Many people are dancing with wolves and don't know it. Jesus said that we should beware of false prophets which come to us in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. The only way you can discern these wolves is to know their fruit. Are they telling you to do one thing and yet they are doing another? Is their lives a display of Jesus? Are the fruit and gifts of the spirit in operation in their lives? Do they care more about the things of God than about themselves. Are they always asking for money, money, money, in every service? Each time you attend church, do you leave the same way you came through the doors? If you answered yes, you may be dancing with wolves. Paul tells us, "Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving" (1 Timothy 4:1-4). "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesseth that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God" the apostle John said, (1 John 4:1-2). We must try the spirits to see if they are of God. Remember, the devil knows the scriptures as well. Therefore, if you don't know the scriptures, it may be easy for you to dance with wolves.

Sing: Dance, dance, dance, and make music with the heavens, we will sing and shout, lift high the name of Jesus.

2011 December 31 - Morning Manna

2011-12-31T00:00:00.000-06:00

O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph. For the LORD most high is terrible; he is a great King over all the earth. He shall subdue the people under us, and the nations under our feet. He shall choose our inheritance for us, the excellency of Jacob whom he loved. Selah. God is gone up with a shout, the LORD with the sound of a trumpet. Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding. God reigneth over the heathen: God sitteth upon the throne of his holiness. The princes of the people are gathered together, even the people of the God of Abraham: for the shields of the earth belong unto God: he is greatly exalted.
(Psalms 47:1-9)

Today's Morsel: One of the things that the communist nations feared and have tried to get America to do away with is the so called, "Defense Shield." Many American leaders saw this as a way to protect America from incoming missiles from their enemies. Shields are for protection. During olden times of warfare, soldiers went into battle with shields. They were for their protection. David told Goliath, "You come to me with a sword, spear, and a shield, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of Host." Paul tells us to put on the whole armor of God. And he says that above all, we should take the shield of faith wherewith we shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. (Ephesians 6:10-18). The psalmist said that the shield of the earth belongs unto God. In other words, God is our protector. He is our defense. David said, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler" (Psalms 91:1-4). Jesus said, "The Word is truth, and I am the truth"(John 14:6; 17:17). Therefore, having this understanding, we can see who protects us in the earth. "Behold, O God our shield, and look upon the face of thine anointed. For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee" (Psalms 84:9-12). "Every word of God is pure: he is a shield unto them that put their trust in him" (Proverbs 30:5). If you put your trust in Jesus, you don't have to worry about darts from your enemy. Jesus has you covered.

Sing: I am covered, covered, covered by His blood, walking by faith, living in love; I am covered, covered, covered, by His blood, Jesus has rescued me.

2011 December 30 - Morning Manna

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. If they say, Come with us, let us lay wait for blood, let us lurk privily for the innocent without cause: Let us swallow them up alive as the grave; and whole, as those that go down into the pit: We shall find all precious substance, we shall fill our houses with spoil: Cast in thy lot among us; let us all have one purse: My son, walk not thou in the way with them; refrain thy foot from their path: For their feet run to evil, and make haste to shed blood. Surely in vain the net is spread in the sight of any bird. And they lay wait for their own blood; they lurk privily for their own lives. So are the ways of every one that is greedy of gain; which taketh away the life of the owners thereof. (Proverbs 1:10-19)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the army, they went to a new financial program thing called, "The One Fund." In other words, we were able to draw funds for use from one central source which was designed to make things operate easier. My wife always says that she's part of the one fund - what her's is her's and what's mine is her's (humor). Investors will tell you to not put all of your eggs into one basket, but to diversify. I have seen places where folks work for group tips. All the workers place all the tips in a jar until at the end of the day, and then they divide them equally among everyone who has worked that day. The problem here is that someone may not work as hard as another person. Solomon cautions that if sinners entice us, we are not to consent. Sinners always want you to be in full support of what they are doing. Not only in joining with them with money matters, but many others things, too. We must not allow ourselves to be drawn away from the right way. There is a thing called "guilty by association," and many have suffered because of it. Paul informed Timothy, "But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses" (1 Timothy 6:9-12). If you are going to have one purse, make sure it's with Jesus, because He's the only one that will give you a fair share of the profit with equity.

Sing: Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe; sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

2011 December 29 - Morning Manna

2011-12-29T00:00:00.000-06:00

"Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost"
(1 Corinthians 12:3).

Today's Morsel: I have noticed that because our world has lost its focus and has removed God from just about everything we do, there are books being written today that are trying to show people how to deal with stress, lose weight, plant a garden, care for animals, get out of debt, or find a health remedy. Very few books stress the importance of developing a strong relationship with Jesus, the One who can solve their problems. When books are written about Jesus, many authors choose their wording carefully as to not offend. The Apostle Paul wasn't concerned in his writing about Jesus Christ if it offended or not. Paul left no doubt in any mind as to what he meant when he wrote letters to the church. Paul wanted the church to know that just because Jesus was nailed to a cross (tree), that they should not think that He was accursed, as this was the law. He wanted them to know that it takes the Holy Ghost in a person's life to understand that Jesus Christ is Lord. In the Greek this translates as, kurios koo'-ree-os, which means: supremacy; supreme in authority, that is God, Lord, master, Sir. Until Jesus is given His rightful place in a person's life and allowed to be Lord over that life, stress, low self-esteem, and a lack of understanding are going to control that life. "For without me ye can do nothing. Jesus said in John 15:5. "The Lord said through the Prophet Isaiah, Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God. Yea, before the day was I am he; and there is none that can deliver out of my hand: I will work, and who shall let it"(Isaiah 43:10-13). God will work if you will let Him. Be sure you don't look elsewhere for your answers.

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

2011 December 28 - Morning Manna

2011-12-28T00:00:00.000-06:00

Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength.
(Nehemiah 8:10)

Today's Morsel: Nehemiah, who spearheaded the rebuilding of the wall around Jerusalem, told the people after their work was finished, " Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength." There is nothing like sitting down eating and drinking after you have finished a project that at the first seemed as it would take you forever to complete. When it's all over and you look back, you rejoice for what you've accomplished. This wasn't an easy task for Nehemiah and those with him. Especially when you had to be on your guard because of your enemy and someone is trying to stop you. But Nehemiah stayed focused realizing that he was doing a great work. And when it was done, he wanted the people to never stop rejoicing for what they had done. He told them to remember that their joy in the Lord would always be their fortification and defense. Paul told the church at Philippi, "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. 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 4:4-7). Like Nehemiah, Paul wanted the church to know that if they would joy in the Lord and allow their lives to reflect Christ, that God's peace would always be with them. When fiery trials come against you while you are doing a great work, remember that the joy of the Lord is always your strength.

Sing: Joy to the world, the Lord is come; let earth receive her King; let every heart prepare Him room, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven and nature sing, and heaven, and heaven, and nature sing.

2011 December 27 - Morning Manna

2011-12-27T00:00:00.000-06:00

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. (1 Corinthians 4:2).

Today's Morsel: Do you now or having you ever owned a dog? Have you ever noticed how faithful they are? You can leave them home all day long by themselves and when you come home, they will lick your face and jump on you because they are faithful. You can put them out in the cold for barking when you tell them not to, and when you let them back in, they will still show their faithfulness and loyalty. When Balaam was asked to come curse the children of Israel, and God placed an angel in his pathway to prevent him, the donkey he was riding saw the angel and did everything to prevent the angel from killing Balaam. Scripture says, "And when the ass saw the angel of the LORD, she fell down under Balaam: and Balaam's anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff. And the LORD opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times? And Balaam said unto the ass, Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee. And the ass said unto Balaam, Am not I thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? was I ever wont to do so unto thee? And he said, Nay. Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face. And the angel of the LORD said unto him, Wherefore hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? behold, I went out to withstand thee, because thy way is perverse before me: And the ass saw me, and turned from me these three times: unless she had turned from me, surely now also I had slain thee, and saved her alive" (Numbers 22:27-33). His donkey was faithful to him. We can learn a lot from God's creation. The Greek word here for stewards is the word: oikonomos,oy-kon-om'-os , which means: a house distributor(that is, manager), or overseer, that is, an employee in that capacity; by extension a fiscal agent (treasurer); figuratively apreacher (of the Gospel): - chamberlain, governor, steward. Jesus said that if you are not faithful in the little things, who will give to you that which is yours.

Sing: O' come all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant, O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem; come and behold Him, born the King of angels; O come let us adore Him, O come, let us adore Him, I come , let us adore Him, Christ, the Lord.

2011 December 26 - Morning Manna

2011-12-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. (2 Kings 6:15-17)

Today's Morsel: The Bible says that when Jesus was born in Bethlehem, there was a multitude of the heavenly host that joined with the angel that proclaimed the birth of Christ. The writer of Hebrews lists them as ministering spirits sent forth to ministers to the heirs of salvation ( Hebrews 1:14). Angels are seen throughout scriptures in strong support of what God desires to do in the earth. Jacob saw them descending and ascending upon a ladder from heaven to earth. They appeared to Abraham and even stood by Paul on the ship to Rome. Jesus told Pilate that He could call for a legion of angels if we needed them (my wording). Elisha told his servant that there were more that be with us than that be with them. Both Isaiah and John saw the heavenly host worshipping God around the throne. Both Elizabeth and Mary had the messenger angel Gabriel appear to them to tell them of their miraculous births. Michael, the warrior angel, appeared to Daniel to tell him why he was late in his arrival to his prayer, and Jude said that Michael just rebuked the devil when he contended about the body of Moses (Jude vs. 9). Angels are everywhere watching out for our well being. Knowing that we have such an heavenly force with us, we should not be afraid to take the battle to the enemy. It's time to mount up!

Sing: God's got an army, it's marching through the land, deliverance is their song, there's healing in their hands, with everlasting joy, and gladness in their hearts, well, in this army, I've got a part!

2011 December 24 - Morning Manna

2011-12-24T00:00:00.001-06:00

That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life; (For the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)

(1 John 1:1-2)

Today's Morsel: Luke wrote to Theophilus, "Forasmuch as many have taken in hand to set forth in order a declaration of those things which are most surely believed among us, Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the beginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word; It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understanding of all things from the very first, to write unto thee in order, most excellent Theophilus, That thou mightest know the certainty of those things, wherein thou hast been instructed" (Luke 1:1-4). Luke begins to set in order the things from the beginning. John said, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). He said that which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, the Word of life. Paul said, "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). The same One that was in the beginning in Genesis 1:1, was also the same One that became flesh and dwelt amongst us ( John 1:14). The child that was born in Bethlehem, was the one that Isaiah said would be called, Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). As you celebrate this holiday season, know that it was set in order from the beginning and fulfilled in Jesus Christ.

Sing: It's all in Him, It's all in Him, the fullness of the Godhead, it's all in Him; It's all in Him, It's all in Him, the Mighty God is Jesus and it's all in Him!

2011 December 23 - Morning Manna

2011-12-23T00:00:00.000-06:00

Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS. (Matthew 1:18-25)

Today's Morsel: Do you like to take risk? Some times life can put us into some risky situations. When the economy began to bottom out, many people risked whether to leave their money in the bank or take it out; to refinance their homes or leave them as is. Each time we take a flight or get into our cars to drive, we are taking a risk. Some risks we know, while others we never even consider. Joseph was taking a big risk with taking Mary to be his wife being already pregnant. How in the world would he be able to tell people that they did not commit fornication before their marriage. How would he be able to explain that this girl is with child and he had nothing to do with it. This was a big risk for him. His reputation as a carpenter and even a godly man in his community was at stake. The only way this could be pulled off was that Joseph, like Mary, had to have had a strong relationship with the Lord. Their strong relationships with the Lord was essential in order for them to hear the message from the angel of the Lord that this thing was being done by the Lord Himself. Under Jewish law, both Mary and Joseph could have been stoned. But Joseph was willing to take the risk and make Mary his wife in the face of being stoned, being talked about, being rejected, and even being labored a sinner. What about you, would you have taken this risk for God? When God chooses you to be a part of His plan, you don't have to worry about the risk nor what others will think or say about of you. He will make the way.

Sing: I'll say yes, Lord, yes, to Your will and to Your way, I'll say yes, Lord, yes, I will trust You and obey; when Your Spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I'll agree, and my answer will be yes, Lord, yes.

2011 December 22 - Morning Manna

2011-12-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

"Now gather thyself in troops, O daughter of troops: he hath laid siege against us: they shall smite the judge of Israel with a rod upon the cheek. But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting. Therefore will he give them up, until the time that she which travaileth hath brought forth: then the remnant of his brethren shall return unto the children of Israel. And he shall stand and feed in the strength of the LORD, in the majesty of the name of the LORD his God; and they shall abide: for now shall he be great unto the ends of the earth "(Micah 5:1-4).

Today's Morsel: Last year, the Green Bay Packers won the Super Bowl. The city of Green Bay, Wisconsin, is the smallest city in America with a National Football League winning team. The population of Green Bay is only about 105,000 people. But it keeps producing winners. There have been many great leaders that have come from small cities and towns. Scripture says, "Now Philip was of Bethsaida, the city of Andrew and Peter. Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see" (John 1:44-46). They knew through scripture that the Messiah was to be born in Bethlehem, as nothing had been mentioned of Nazareth. And so when Phillip said, Jesus of Nazareth, Nathanael more or less rejected it until Jesus told him, "Before Phillip called thee under the fig tree I saw thee." Immediately, his eyes were opened to truth. Zechariah said, "For who hath despised the day of small things" (Zechariah 4:10)? Micah, the prophet, had prophesied that out of Bethlehem Ephratha, though little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of it would come forth Him that would be ruler in Israel. Such a little town, but a great leader and Savior would be born there. Bethlehem was the city of Naomi, Ruth and Boaz, where Obed was born, who was the grandfather of King David, who was the lineage line to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. This is why Jesus was often referred to as the son of David. And because God had chosen this lineage line, it would be only right that He come to earth in the city where the King He had chosen after His own heart had lived. Jesus wants to be born in your city, church, and home, so don't think that it is to small.

Sing: O little town of Bethlehem, how still we see thee lie; above thy deep and dreamless sleep the silent stars go by: Yet in the dark street shineth the Everlasting Light; The hopes and fears of all the years, are met in thee tonight.

2011 December 21 - Morning Manna

2011-12-21T00:00:00.000-06:00

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)

Today's Morsel: When the angel told Mary that she would conceive and bear a child, "Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing I know not a man? And the angel answered and said unto her, The Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall overshadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God" (Luke 1:34-35). Mary was a pretty sharp girl. She knew that a woman couldn't have a child without a man. Even if it is artificial insemination, she knew that the seed has to come from a man. Because this impregnation would not be a normal impregnation with man and women, but by the power God (Holy Ghost) overshadowing the woman, the child would be called the Son of God. Thus, inside of Mary's womb, would be God Himself. Even though Joseph would serve the purpose as the earthly father, the real father would be God Himself. And many, like Mary, have questioned how can this be? But as Jesus said, "With man this is impossible, but with God, nothing shall be impossible." So don't try to figure this out with your natural mind, as you never will. God's ways aren't our ways. John wrote, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. ...And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth." (John 1:1;14). He wanted us to know that God came to earth as a human. Jesus said, "And no man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father; and who the Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him" (Luke 10:22). John said, "Whosoever denieth the Son, the same hath not the Father: (but) he that acknowledgeth the Son hath the Father also" (1 John 2:23). "Do you know the Son? Then you should have know the father also," Jesus said. And Paul said it best when he wrote, "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."

Sing: The Mighty God is Jesus, the Prince of Peace is He, the Everlasting Father, the King Eternally, the Wonderful in Wisdom, by whom all things were made, the fullness of the Godhead, in Jesus is displayed.

It's all in Him, it's all in Him, the fullness of the Godhead, it's all in Him; it's all in Him, it's all in Him, the Mighty God is Jesus and it's all in Him.

2011 December 20 - Morning Manna

2011-12-20T00:00:00.000-06:00

And Samuel told all the words of the LORD unto the people that asked of him a king. And he said, This will be the manner of the king that shall reign over you: He will take your sons, and appoint them for himself, for his chariots, and to be his horsemen; and some shall run before his chariots. And he will appoint him captains over thousands, and captains over fifties; and will set them to ear his ground, and to reap his harvest, and to make his instruments of war, and instruments of his chariots. And he will take your daughters to be confectionaries, and to be cooks, and to be bakers. And he will take your fields, and your vineyards, and your oliveyards, even the best of them, and give them to his servants. And he will take the tenth of your seed, and of your vineyards, and give to his officers, and to his servants. And he will take your menservants, and your maidservants, and your goodliest young men, and your asses, and put them to his work. He will take the tenth of your sheep: and ye shall be his servants. And ye shall cry out in that day because of your king which ye shall have chosen you; and the LORD will not hear you in that day. Nevertheless the people refused to obey the voice of Samuel; and they said, Nay; but we will have a king over us; That we also may be like all the nations; and that our king may judge us, and go out before us, and fight our battles. And Samuel heard all the words of the people, and he rehearsed them in the ears of the LORD. And the LORD said to Samuel, Hearken unto their voice, and make them a king. And Samuel said unto the men of Israel, Go ye every man unto his city.

(1 Samuel 8:10-22)

Today's Morsel: The taxing of people has been around for a long time. When Israel wanted a king like everyone else, the Lord told Samuel to tell them that one day this king would begin to tax them. He would begin to take away from them things for his own use. So really, we don't have a lot to complain about today when it come to taxes as it was the fault of people before us. Those who asked for a king instead of letting God rule over them.

Luke records, "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn" (Luke 2:1-7). God used this same thing, taxing, that He told His people Israel that their king would us against them, to bring about His plan upon the earth. Joseph and Mary were out of country, but God's plan was that this child was to be born in Bethlehem, the city of David. And thus, God used the taxing method to take them back to where the prophets had said that the Messiah would be born.

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

2011 December 19 - Morning Manna

2011-12-19T00:00:00.000-06:00

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.(James 1:17)

Today's Morsel: For the past few weeks, I've been seeing the mailman drop boxes at my door. I know I haven't ordered anything, and so I'm assuming that my dear children are starting to send gifts for Christmas to their loving Dad/Grandpa/Papa/Poppie.

James tells us that every good gift and perfect gift is from above and cometh down from the father of lights. When God robed Himself in flesh and came to the earth to save mankind, He was the greatest gift. On the day of Pentecost, the apostle Peter told the people if they would repent of their sins, and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of their sins, that they would receive the gift of the Holy Ghost (Acts 2:38). Paul, writing to the church at Corinth, told them to covet earnestly the best gift. And that gift was love, because God is love (1 John 4:8). The best gift is love, but the greatest gift is the Holy Ghost. When we allow God's love to rein within us, and we show forth that love to others, we are displaying the best gift. When we allow the Holy Ghost to lead and guide us, we are displaying the greatest gift. You can't put a price tag on the gifts from God. No amount of money can buy them. "And when Simon saw that through laying on of the apostles' hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money, Saying, Give me also this power, that on whomsoever I lay hands, he may receive the Holy Ghost. But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money"(Acts 8:18-20). You can't purchase anything from God, it's already paid for. His gifts are free and they are the best and greatest. How many of them do you want today. Jesus said that you have not, because you ask not.

Sing: So have a super-duper Christmas with Jesus this year, super-duper Christmas spreading good cheer, when you are down, your frown, will soon disappear, so have a super-duper Christmas with Jesus this year.

2011 December 17 - Morning Manna

2011-12-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways
(Haggai 1:5-7)

Today's Morsel: If someone were to ask you why you are doing what you are doing, what would you tell them. Often, we don't consider what we are doing and why we are doing it. Sometimes we just go with the flow. Solomon said, "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls" (Proverbs 25:28). How often do you consider your ways? When is the last time you just sat down and considered eternity? If you died right now, where would you spend eternity? What if you lost everything you own, what would you do? The Lord said that we should consider our ways. Are you one that agrees with others that you know aren't telling the truth? Are you one that says that you are a Christian, but you know within you there are many things that aren't like Jesus? Are you one that has trouble with faithfulness, commitment, dedication, and follow through? Are you one that gets mad easily? Are you one that nothing satisfies you or you seem to never be content with what you have or who you are? The Lord says that we are to consider our ways. He said that, "You have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes." Is God speaking to you today? Then I say that it's time you consider your ways.

Sing: Take me back! Take me back, dear Lord, to the place, where I first received you; Take me back! Take me back, dear Lord, where I first believed.

2011 December 16 - Morning Manna

2011-12-16T00:00:00.000-06:00

Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer: For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist. And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake. But there shall not an hair of your head perish. (Luke 21:14-18)

Today's Morsel: I love listening to people discuss political debates. Often, I just find myself laughing when someone says, "I can't believe that they brought those things up about a person after such a long time." I just want to say, didn't Jesus tell us, "For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested; neither was anything kept secret, but that it should come abroad" (Mark 4:22). Jesus was saying that we need to settle some things in our hearts.

And some of those things are:

The church is going to always be hated by the world.
There's always going to be attacks against anyone that calls themself a Christian.
Evil seducers are going to wax worse and worse.
Perilous times are going to come.
People are going to give heed to seducing spirits and doctrine and devils.
Earthquakes and famines are going to be in divers places.
Wars and rumors of wars are going to take place.
You are going to be lied to, hated, schemed against, and cheated. And people who say that they are born again, are going to walk out on you and accuse you.

So settle it in your heart now, so that when it come, you aren't surprised. In all of this that is to come, Jesus will still be God. The gospel will be preached to the whole world. Jesus will still heal and deliver. He will still be there when you call, and He will work on your behalf if you let Him.

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

2011 December 15 - Morning Manna

2011-12-15T00:00:00.000-06:00

(Isaiah 40:29-31)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever hit one of those points where you become discouraged and you start to feel as though you have no one you can talk to or that no one seems to care? What would you say this is or why do you think it happens? Would you say it is a attack from the enemy or you just lost focus?I believe that it is the latter, as the devil has no power over us. Often, in this fast pace life, it is easy to lose focus on what you are doing and not wait upon the Lord. Many times, we allow the things of God to become second or third instead of first place and we are soon out of whack. Isaiah said that the Lord will give power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increases strength. When we become weary in well doing, we become powerless. God's power is still there, but we forget to offer praise and stir it back up. We want to sulk instead of worship. The call here by the Lord is to wait when we don't know what to do. David could have immediately went after the men who took his family at Zitlag. But he didn't. He waited until he and his men were through being weary and faint hearted. You see if they would have taken matters into their own hands without waiting on the Lord, they no doubt when have done foolishly. We must learn patience. Learn determination. Learn commitment. And above all, learn to keep our flesh under subjection until God does what He desires to do within us. And then we will see that our strength is renewed and made perfect in Him. "In your patience possess ye your souls," Jesus said in Luke 21:19.

Sing: Thy 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.

2011 December 14 - Morning Manna

2011-12-14T21:41:00.002-06:00

Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life
(Proverbs 4:13).

Today's Morsel:For all the schooling that I've had, I've never been in a class where the teacher didn't tell us, "Listen carefully to what I am about to tell you, because one day you might need it." During my Army training, "First aid" was a continuous subject that soldiers had to become proficient in as we never knew when we would have to use it on others or even ourselves. Paul told Timothy, "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee" (1 Timothy 4:16). The doctrine of Jesus Christ and His apostles will not only save us, it will save others that hear it as well. Paul goes on to tell us, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4). Many people today are losing or have already lost their hope of living. If Scripture gives us hope, why don't we inform them before it's too late. When I'm counseling with folks, I always try to get them to read the Bible and apply what they read because I know it will make a difference in their life. Paul also says that, "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Because the scriptures are God-inspired, if we follow them, they will give us life. Take hold to instruction, correction, chastisement, discipline, and doctrine, it saves us.

Sing: When in service for my Lord, dark may be the night, but I'll cling more close to Him, He will give me light, Satan's snares may vex my soul, turn my thoughts aside, but my Lord goes ahead, He'll lead wherever betide.

O' I want to see Him, look upon His face, there to sing forever, of His saving grace, on the streets of glory, let me lift my voice, cares all past home at last ever to rejoice.

2011 December 13 - Morning Manna

2011-12-13T00:01:00.000-06:00

(1 Timothy 2:1-3)

Today's Morsel: I often wonder what things God would do if we forgot about our needs and just focused on the needs of others in our prayers. For the next 30 days, I would like you to focus on someone you know, someone that you would like God to make a change in their life. If they call you during your 30-days ofprayer time, don't tell them you've been praying for them, but just be a listening ear. When you pray, just ask God to bless them. Ask Him to bless them in whatever area that may come to your mind. Nothing else. Do it for five to ten minutes each day and see what God will do in their lives during that 30 days. The Lord said, "If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land"(2 Chronicles 7:13-14). Prayer is an invitation for God to work in the lives of people.

Sing: Someone is praying for you! Someone is praying for you! When you feel you're alone, and your heart would break in two, remember someone is praying for you.

2011 December 12 - Morning Manna

2011-12-12T00:01:00.000-06:00

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalms 46:1)

Today's Morsel: Each year during the Olympics, many men complete for the strongest man title by lifting weights. These man display their strength and abilities to outlift their opponent for the title, to be known as the strongest man in the world. But are they really the strongest? Jesus said that all power in Heaven and earth was given unto Him. With His finger He casts out devils. A man's strength is not determined by his ability to lift weights, but rather by his character. If you were to take inventory, how many people do you know that you can call on in the times of trouble and they will be there for you. If you were able to list someone, then these folks are rare and you should classify them as true friends. The psalmist said that God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. You see, God is a safe haven, sanctuary, shelter, and our protection. He covers us with His feathers and under His wing, we can trust Him. When His spirit is within us, it gives us the strength that we each need. We should never need to pray for strength, as it is always with us. We just need to stir up the gift of the Holy Ghost within us to have the strength we need. Because He is in us, His presence is with us. No matter the trouble, trial, or circumstance, He is as close as the mention of His name. So don't fret when trouble comes. But rather remember, "As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving" (Colossians 2:6-7). And then, "Speak to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ"(Ephesians 5:19-20). Jesus is a friend who won't leave you.

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

2011 December 10 - Morning Manna

2011-12-10T00:01:00.001-06:00

Judge me, O God, and plead my cause against an ungodly nation: O deliver me from the deceitful and unjust man. For thou art the God of my strength: why dost thou cast me off? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy? O send out thy light and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy: yea, upon the harp will I praise thee, O God my God. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. (Psalms 43:1-5)

Today's Morsel: It is amazing how quick darkness flees when light is present. You can walk into a dark room and turn on a light and instantly the darkness is gone. The only place the darkness remains is in those places where the light cannot penetrate. When one's heart is darkened, there is an absence of light. Paul said, "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them" (2 Corinthians 4:3-4). When we understand the Gospel, we understand that it is about Jesus Christ, the Light of the world. Those who follow Him will not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life (John 1:3). The Psalmist prayed that God would send out His light and His truth that they may lead him and bring him to the holy hill and the tabernacle. The light on the tower at an airport is to lead planes to their runway. When the light is sent out, it shows the way. Jesus said that we are cities set upon a hill that cannot be hidden. Therefore, we must let our lights shine that men can see our good works and glorify God. We are to shine so that others may see the way. When we understand that Jesus is both The Light and The Truth (John 8:12; John 14:6), we must live our lives so that He shines through us. When we spend time in His presence, His light will be renewed in us and then shine through us.

Sing: In His presence is fullness of joy, at His right hand, pleasure for ever more, oh what fellowship divine, I am His and He is mine, in the presence of the Lord, is fullness of joy!

2011 December 9 - Morning Manna

2011-12-09T00:01:00.001-06:00

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? (Psalms 42:1-2)

Today's Morsel:Many people do not understand how easy it is to dehydrate. The two types of dehydration, chronic dehydration and acute dehydration, can be caused by many things. The most common causes are: flu, vomiting, diarrhea, blood loss, malnutrition, and plain old failure to replenish liquids lost from sweating and urination (not drinking enough water). Many illnesses and diseases can trigger acute dehydration due to the increased body temperature and sweating that usually occurs. This is why your doctor tells you to drink plenty of fluids when you are ill. Your body uses fluids to expel toxins as well as to keep your system flexible, lubricated and running smoothly. Dehydration and blood pressure problems often go hand-in-hand due to the loss of electrolytes. Symptoms of dehydration are: Thirst, lost of appetite, skin flushing, dark colored urine, dry mouth, fatigue or weakness, chills, head rushes.

David said, "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 we do not get enough of God, we are going to spiritual dehydrate. The woman at the well askED Jesus to give her the water that He offered so that she would never thirst nor have to draw water again. The Holy Ghost is that living water that we need so that we never thirst again. It is the refreshing after a hot and weary day. It is the new wine that is given last at the wedding feast. As born again believers, we should never thirst for living water. We just need to prime the pump and allow the Holy Ghost to flow freely within us.

Sing: I thirsted in a barren land of sin and shame, and nothing satisfying there I found, but to the blessed cross of Christ one day I came, where springs of living waters did abound.

Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul they satisfy; drinking at the springs of living waters, oh wonderful and bountiful supply.

2011 December 8 - Morning Manna

2011-12-08T00:01:00.002-06:00

Then the king of Syria warred against Israel, and took counsel with his servants, saying, In such and such a place shall be my camp. And the man of God sent unto the king of Israel, saying, Beware that thou pass not such a place; for thither the Syrians are come down. And the king of Israel sent to the place which the man of God told him and warned him of, and saved himself there, not once nor twice. Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was sore troubled for this thing; and he called his servants, and said unto them, Will ye not shew me which of us is for the king of Israel? And one of his servants said, None, my lord, O king: but Elisha, the prophet that is in Israel, telleth the king of Israel the words that thou speakest in thy bedchamber. And he said, Go and spy where he is, that I may send and fetch him. And it was told him, saying, Behold, he is in Dothan. Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about. And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha. And Elisha said unto them, This is not the way, neither is this the city: follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom ye seek. But he led them to Samaria. And it came to pass, when they were come into Samaria, that Elisha said, LORD, open the eyes of these men, that they may see. And the LORD opened their eyes, and they saw; and, behold, they were in the midst of Samaria. And the king of Israel said unto Elisha, when he saw them, My father, shall I smite them? shall I smite them? And he answered, Thou shalt not smite them: wouldest thou smite those whom thou hast taken captive with thy sword and with thy bow? set bread and water before them, that they may eat and drink, and go to their master. And he prepared great provision for them: and when they had eaten and drunk, he sent them away, and they went to their master. So the bands of Syria came no more into the land of Israel.
(2 Kings 6:8-23)

Today's Morsel: After desert Storm/Desert Shield began in Iraq in 1991, many of the Iraqi's were taken prisoner by the allied forces. They were being carded off to prison camps in cargo truck by the load. Many of them were hungry and malnourished from a lack of care from their leaders. One of the first things the allied forces did was to give them water to drink and food to eat. Many of these men were very appreciative for the way that they were being treated. After the war, they were returned home to Iraq. When the King of Syria wanted to attack the king of Israel, Elisha asked God to blind them. And then he lead them right into the camp of their enemy. When the king of Israel ask if they should kill them, Elisha told them, "No. Feed them." And so after the men held a great feast prepared for them, they were allowed to returned home and the Syrians came no more into the land of Israel. What would you have done to your enemies. Would you have taken a more drastic measure against them? Scripture says that if our enemy hungers, to feed them, and if they thirst, give them water to drink, and so shall we heap coals of fire upon their head. In every situation, we have to remember the golden rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." And since God isn't willing that any should perish, we have to adjust our thinking to His Word. Do you have any enemies? This is the best way to rid them from you.

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, fill it up and make me whole.

2011 December 7 - Morning Manna

2011-12-07T00:01:00.000-06:00

My son, despise not the chastening of the LORD; neither be weary of his correction: For whom the LORD loveth he correcteth; even as a father the son in whom he delighteth. (Proverbs 3:11-12)

Today's Morsel: When you were a child and your parents were about to spank you, did they ever say to you, "This is going to hurt me more then it's going to hurt you?" I use to think, "How can it hurt them more than me. I'm the one getting the whipping." God corrects us through His Word. This is why many times in church, when the Word is preached, it exposes our inward thoughts and actions, or the wrong deeds we've done, and we feel a deep sense of remorse and it causes us to repent. The writer of Hebrews informs us, "And we have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth. If ye endure chastening, God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not? But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons. Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?"Hebrews 12:5-9). Therefore, we need disciplining and reprimanding for our wrong. Solomon tells us, "Withhold not correction from the child: for if thou beatest him with the rod, he shall not die. Thou shalt beat him with the rod, and shalt deliver his soul from hell"(Proverbs 23:13-14). When we truly love our children as God loves us, we will correct them so that they are being bent in the right direction. Moses told the children of Israel, "For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God: the LORD thy God hath chosen thee to be a special people unto himself, above all people that are upon the face of the earth. The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt" (Deuteronomy 7:6-8). When we are born into the family of God, we can expect correction to come from our heavenly Father, Jesus, when we do wrong. And there is no respecter of persons, we will all receive His correction.

Sing: Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so, little to ones to Him belong, they are weak, but He is strong. Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, Yes, Jesus loves me, for the Bible tells me so.

2011 December 6 - Morning Manna

2011-12-06T00:01:00.000-06:00

"My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path" (Proverbs 2:1-9)

Today's Morsel: My daughter-in-law called us one day to tell us that she had gotten a metal detector. I asked her what she was going to do with it? She said, "I'm going to look for treasures." Many people have purchased such an item and have found many things. Things such as lost coins, rings, keys, weapons, and the list goes on and on. What if we could purchase an item that found wisdom, knowledge, and understanding? I wonder how many people would purchase it. Solomon said that if we were to cry after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures;Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God. These things are within our Bibles and within our reach, but we must be zealous to locate them. We must dig around in the Word to find the hidden things of God, as "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him. But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God" (1 Corinthians 2:9-10). As one gold miner exclaimed, "There's gold in them there hills!

Sing: Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you, hallelu, hallelujah.

2011 December 5 - Morning Manna

2011-12-05T00:01:00.000-06:00

My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother: (Proverbs 1:8)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever made the comment, "If I knew what I know now back then, I would have done things differently." How many times would you say that when you were young your parents told you things to do and you thought they were dumb, and so your didn't do them only to find out later in life that they were right. It has been stated that you don't get old being a fool. The 5th commandment is the only commandment with a promise, Paul said, and it is, "Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;) That it may be well with thee, and thou mayest live long on the earth" (Ephesians 6:1-3). Paul also wrote to Timothy, that in the last days that men would be disobedient to parents ( 2 Timothy 3:1-7). Solomon calls for us to hear the instruction of thy father and forsake not the law of thy mother. This scripture not only applies to the natural, but to the spiritual as well. Paul told Timothy, "Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity"(1 Timothy 5:1-2). The mature and faithful elders in Christ, in the church, should be respected and listened to as a father and mother by the young and not so young, he said. Their advice, guidance, wisdom, and knowledge can aide many younger members in how to walked before God and to keep themselves pure from the snares of the enemy. Solomon said that if we will heed the instructions of a father and a mother, they shall be an ornament of grace unto our heads, and chains about our necks (Proverbs 1:9). In other words, they will keep you safe and your life will be secure. What would you change about your life if you could turn back the hands of time.

Sing: Trust and obey, for there's no other way, to be happy in Jesus, then to trust and obey.

2011 December 3 - Morning Manna

2011-12-03T00:01:00.000-06:00

Then the mariners were afraid, and cried every man unto his god, and cast forth the wares that were in the ship into the sea, to lighten it of them. But Jonah was gone down into the sides of the ship; and he lay, and was fast asleep. So the shipmaster came to him, and said unto him, What meanest thou, O sleeper? arise, call upon thy God, if so be that God will think upon us, that we perish not. And they said every one to his fellow, Come, and let us cast lots, that we may know for whose cause this evil is upon us. So they cast lots, and the lot fell upon Jonah. Then said they unto him, Tell us, we pray thee, for whose cause this evil is upon us; What is thine occupation? and whence comest thou? what is thy country? and of what people art thou?

(Jonah 1:5-8)

Today's Morsel:It's not uncommon when we are traveling and we want to break the ice with someone that we do not know, that we begin by asking them where they are from and what their occupation is. With today's technology and easy travel, people come from all parts of the earth and do many different things. I have met many people during my travels, and when I ask them where they are from and they tell me, sometimes I will say, I've been there before. They are often surprised. but the opportunity to communicate with them is made easier. If we know something about others' occupations, in some cases it makes it easier to witness to them. Commonality can and does open doors. The men on the ship with Jonah wanted to know where he was from and what he did that he could be sleeping and not be concerned that they were in danger of the seas. Joseph told his family to tell pharaoh when he asked them what their occupation was, to say they were shepherds. "And Joseph said unto his brethren, and unto his father's house, I will go up, and shew Pharaoh, and say unto him, My brethren, and my father's house, which were in the land of Canaan, are come unto me; And the men are shepherds, for their trade hath been to feed cattle; and they have brought their flocks, and their herds, and all that they have. And it shall come to pass, when Pharaoh shall call you, and shall say, What is your occupation? That ye shall say, Thy servants' trade hath been about cattle from our youth even until now, both we, and also our fathers: that ye may dwell in the land of Goshen; for every shepherd is an abomination unto the Egyptians" (Genesis 46:31-34). This he considers desirable, on two grounds: first, because Goshen was best suited for pasture; and secondly, because the chosen family would thus be comparatively isolated from Egyptian society. They would be free to practice their religion without intervention by the Egyptians. Even though the Egyptians raise cattle and sheep, they did not sacrifice them to their god as the Israelites did. They saw them as sacred. If Israel represents the church, and Egypt represents the world, then our occupation must be shepherds, our people are to be the people of God, and our country is afar.

Sing:There's a country far beyond the starry skies, there's a city where there never comes a night, if we're faithful we shall go there by and by, tis the city where the Lamb is the light.

In the city where the Lamb is the light, in the city where there cometh no night, I've a mansion over there and I'm free from toil and care, it's in the city where the Lamb is the light.

2011 December 2 - Morning Manna

2011-12-02T00:01:00.000-06:00

In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. (Isaiah 38:1)

Today's Morsel: I have preached from today's passage, and my the title was, "If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, what would you do differently today?" Not a popular title, but one to cause us to consider. When God gave me this message, I immediately began to think what would I do, were there things that I should do or be doing. I thought about if I had a will in place. Had I told my family how much I loved them. Was I holding bitterness against any in my heart. Was I harboring ill feelings and unforgiveness. Many thoughts began to rush through my mind. Was my house in order. Not my natural house, but my spiritual house, since I am called the temple of God. I began to think if I had been building my life according to God's Word. Had I purged myself from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit. I even began to think of those who are on death row. Scriptures began to flood my mind of the unjust steward, the ten virgins, Belshazzar, Hezekiah. But none touched my heart as much as when Jesus said, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. 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 24:42-44). What would you do differently today, if you knew you were going to die tomorrow?

Sing: I'm getting ready to leave this place, I'm getting ready for those gates of pearls, keeping my record right, watching both day and night, I'm getting ready to leave this place.

2011 December 1 - Morning Manna

2011-12-01T00:01:00.003-06:00

And Jacob went out from Beersheba, and went toward Haran. And he lighted upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed; And thy seed shall be as the dust of the earth, and thou shalt spread abroad to the west, and to the east, and to the north, and to the south: and in thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. And, behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of. And Jacob awaked out of his sleep, and he said, Surely the LORD is in this place; and I knew it not. And he was afraid, and said, How dreadful is this place! this is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven. (Genesis 28:10-17)

Today's Morsel: As a kid, I was never afraid to climb ladders, even when they were self made out of materials that we today would never be considered safe for climbing. As I have gotten a little older, I am not afraid, just a little more cautious about how high I'm will to go up on them. Especially if they are made out of materials that I don't think will hold me.

When Jacob was sent by his mother to live with his uncle Laban, he came upon a certain place, and tarried there all night, because the sun was set; and he took of the stones of that place, and put them for his pillows, and lay down in that place to sleep. And he dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth, and the top of it reached to heaven: and behold the angels of God ascending and descending on it. And, behold, the LORD stood above it, and said, I am the LORD God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac: the land whereon thou liest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed.

What is it about dreams that we are left wondering what they are all about? Joseph had a dream that his family would one day bow to him. Peter said that in the last days, old men would dream dreams. Solomon asked God to grant him wisdom to lead His people, and God gave him more than he had asked for, when he awoke it was but a dream. Jacob's dream speaks to the effect that we always have divine protection (Hebrews 1:14), and that we can always go higher in Christ should we so desire. But it is up to each of us to climb the ladder of success and victory. When John was on the isles of Patmos, he heard a voice saying unto him, "Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne" (Revelation 4:1-2). Habakkuk said that God would cause him to walk upon my high places. God wants each of us to come up higher in Him, and it starts with making up our minds to climb the ladder to victory and unto higher places in Him.

Sing: I am, climbing, Jacob's ladder! I am, climbing, Jacob's ladder! I am, climbing, Jacobs' ladder! Soldiers, of the cross. Every, rung goes, higher, higher! Every, rung goes, higher, higher! Every, rung goes, higher, higher, soldiers of the cross. O' sinner, do you, love my Jesus? Sinner, do you, love my Jesus? Sinner do you, love my Jesus? Soldiers of the cross.

2011 December 1 - Morning Manna

2011-12-01T00:01:00.000-06:00

What is it about dreams that we are left wondering what they are all about? Joseph had a dream that his family would one day bow to him. Peter said that in the last days, old men would dream dreams. Solomon asked God to grant him wisdom to lead His people, and God gave him more than he had asked for, when he awoke it was but a dream. Jacob's dream speaks to the effect that we always have divine protection (Hebrews 1:14), and that we can always go higher in Christ should we dso esire. But it is up to each of us to climb the ladder of success and victory. When John was on the isles of Patmos, he heard a voice saying unto him, "Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter. And immediately I was in the spirit: and, behold, a throne was set in heaven, and one sat on the throne" (Revelation 4:1-2). Habakkuk said that God would cause him to walk upon my high places. God wants each of us to come up higher in Him, and it starts with making up our minds to climb the ladder to victory and unto higher places in Him.

2011 November 30 - Morning Manna

2011-11-30T00:01:00.000-06:00

Today's Morsel: General Chesty Puller, the most decorated U.S. Marine in history and the only Marine to receive five Navy Crosses, was once asked what he thought of the new Marine Corps. He replied, "Old breed, new breed, doesn't matter, as long as it is the Marine Corps breed."

Old saints, new saints, doesn't matter as long as the Gospel is preached to the whole world by the whole church. Paul said that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. One of the things that many believer sstruggle with is change. We oftentimes become accustomed to our ways and we don't like to change. We get into a rut and we want to stay there. We drive to church the same way each week. W e sit in the same seats. We tell the same old stories. We use the same old excuses. We eat the same thing each time we go out for dinner. When we become new believers in Christ, every day we should be looking at our lives to see what changes we need to make to make us more like Christ. Jesus calls for us to be perfect even as our Father in heaven is perfect. The word perfect here is to become complete. If we never strive for perfection, we will never become perfect. If we are going to be like Christ, we have to change. And that change always starts with our thinking. Because as a man thinketh so is he. Can others tell that you are a new creature in Christ or does your life still reflect the old ways? What changes would you say that you need to make in your life today?

Sing: I just started living, I found me a brand new life, changed my directions, and took away all my strife; I'm a new born believer, with a holy infilling, my days are brighter, my load is lighter, I just started living!

2011 November 29 - Morning Manna

2011-11-29T00:01:00.000-06:00

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. (1 Corinthians 3:9-14)

Today's Morsel: The story of the three little pigs was always one of my favorite childhood stories. The pigs chose certain material to build their house. One with straw, one with sticks, and one with brick. After they were all built, the big bad wolf came to attack the pigs. The pigs who's houses were built out of straw and sticks were easily destroyed by the wolf. But the pig whose house was built with brick, something solid, was still left standing. I don't know about you, but I think I'll build my house from something solid. I believe I will build my house from the Word of God as the temptedr Satan, will keep trying to blow my house down. Paul said for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. If we build on the foundational base of His Word which He has given to us, we do not have to worry about our house suffering from the fiery trials that come into our lives. Jesus said, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock"(Matthew 7:24-25). How are you building your life?

Sing: I've got my, foot on the rock and my mind's made up, though I walk through the lowly valley though I drink from the bitter cup, when the devil comes a knocking trying to show me an easier way; I stand right flat on my feet, I throw my head in the air, I look him, straight in the eye, I say my foot's on the rock and my mind's made up.

2011 November 28 - Morning Manna

2011-11-28T00:01:00.000-06:00

And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me (Mark 9:33-37).

Today's Morsel: For the past 26 years, my wife and I have done our morning devotions together when we are home together. I have read the Bible through at least 26 times, yet I am always amazed at the new insight that comes from God's Word each time I read it and study it. I have come to realize that there is no way a person can have all the insight into what God's Word means and may be speaking to. Even Jesus' disciples found themselves confounded by His teaching and ministry. Nothing was hidden from Jesus. Even when His disciples were thinking something and did not say it audibly, Jesus knew what they were thinking the same way He knew what Simon was thinking when the woman with the alabaster box of ointment came into his house to anoint Jesus for his burial. Jesus' comments were much deeper than the surface comments. Even Nicodemus was confounded by His comments about being born again. The Psalmist said that there is not a word in our tongue that God doesn't already know it (Psalm 139:4). The disciples had disputed among themselves about who would be the greatest. But Jesus sat down and called the twelve, and said unto them, "If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all." Jesus wanted them to know that it wasn't about position in His kingdom, but it was about serving. He wanted them to know that if they got into the habit of seeking for positions, they could easily become bias and begin to reject people. This is why He chose a child as an illustration for them. One who is really called and who will serve, will exercise self-less service. He will take last while placing others first. A self-less and humble servant will always be brought to the head of the class.

Sing: Jesus use me, 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.

2011 November 26 - Morning Manna

2011-11-26T00:01:00.000-06:00

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. (Matthew 26:36-39)

Today's Morsel: Have you gotten to the point of nevertheless in your walk with God? Have you made up your mind that you are going to serve God no matter what anyone else does? Often, we can become disheartened and may even think about walking away when others do us wrong or they say something that we may not like. Jesus told us that offense would come. If you knew that you were the only Christian on your job site, would you take a stand for the Lord? If you were diagnosed with an incurable illness, would you still serve the Lord? Scripture says that Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. If He's the same, shouldn't we be the same? As new creatures in Christ, our lives should reflect Him in every way. We shouldn't be hot and on fire for God today and then cold and depressed tomorrow. This is where the nevertheless comes in. When Paul asked the Lord to take away the thorn from his flesh and the Lord told him that My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness, Paul's next comment was, "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong" (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). You see, nevertheless says, "I will still worship and praise God because I love Him, not because of the things that He may do for me."

Sing: I'm gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can, I'm gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can, praise Him in the morning, praise Him all day long, I'm gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can.

2011 November 25 - Morning Manna

2011-11-25T00:01:00.000-06:00

"The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established" (Proverbs 16:1-3).

Today's Morsel: How's your commitment today? How committed are you to your marriage? How committed are you to your job? How committed are you to your country? How committed are you to your family? How committed are you to your God and to your church? If we aren't committed, then it's easy for us to quit. And we know that quitters never win and winners never quit. Scripture says that if we commit our works unto the Lord, then our thoughts shall be established. If I commit myself to my marriage, my job, my family, my God and anything else that I am doing to the Lord, then my mind will remained focused on these things and I won't give up or give in on them, but will work to see them through. Everything that we do in life should be done heartily as unto the Lord. When we look at Ruth, she was committed to go all the way upon the vows that she had taken. She committed her works unto the Lord and God honored her for her commitment. What about you? Would you like God to honor you for your commitment? Then whatsoever you find to do, do it heartily as unto the Lord.

Sing: Lord I give you my heart, I give you my soul, I live for you alone, every breathe that I take, every moment I'm awake, Lord have your way in me.

2011 November 24 - Morning Manna

2011-11-24T00:01:00.000-06:00

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (Romans 1:20-23)

Today's Morsel: Having taken a good look at our world today, there seems to be many people who are not thankful for who they are and for what they have. During the Vietnam conflict, when many of our military members returned to America, as soon as they exited the plane walkway and touched American soil, they dropped down on their knees and kissed the ground, displaying their thankfulness that God had allowed them to see and to put their feet on American soil once again.

Paul said that in the last days perils times would come. He said that people would be unthankful ( 2 Timothy 3:1-7). He also told the church at Rome,that many people, when they knew God, didn't glorify Him as God, neither were they thankful. If we say that we have a relationship with Jesus, then we must display our thankfulness at all time. "For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them," Jesus said in Matthew 13:17. As we celebrate this day of thanksgiving, let us all be thankful that God has allowed us to see another day, and that we can celebrate with family and friends. Remember, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you ( 1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Sing: Thanks! Thanks! I give you thanks, for all you have done, I am so blessed, my soul has found rest, O' Lord, I give you thanks.

2011 November 23 - Morning Manna

2011-11-23T00:01:00.000-06:00

Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? (1 Corinthians 5:6)

Today's Morsel: I was once watching a Tom and Jerry cartoon, and Tom was making a cake. It called for adding yeast to the flour. Instead of putting in just a little yeast, he threw in the enter jar. When his cake began to rise, it blow up his stove.

Paul said that sin is like yeast (leaven). Just a little and it affects the whole body. When you say that you are born again, your sin doesn't just affect you, it affects the whole body of believers. In many ways, Paul, like Jesus, always used simple life applications to address a larger issue. The church at Corinth was allowing sinful things to be accepted. They weren't realizing that it was affecting the entire body of Christ. And so Paul wanted them to understand that just the little sin they were allowing to take place was like yeast inside of bread dough. It would affect the entire church. This is why each of us who say that we are of Christ, must purge ourselves daily to ensure that we don't let sin enter or remain in our lives, because sooner or later it will affect not only us, but the entire body of Christ as well.

Sing: I came to Jesus weary worn and sad, He took my sins away, He took my sins away. And now on Him, I roll my every care, He took my sins away.

2011 November 22 - Morning Manna

2011-11-22T00:01:00.000-06:00

So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water. And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the LORD; and the LORD shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee. And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters. (Exodus 15:22-27)

Today Morsel: During our last visit to Taiwan, our missionary friends took us to a tea plantation on the highest mountain in South East Asia. This was some very good tea. The tea owner said that they had won as the second best tea in the world. And that was because the first place was won by China, as they were the judges. When I looked at the tea plants, they all looked like hedge bushes that you grow around your homes. The tea is made from the leaves. Tea is good for you. There are many healing remedies that come from trees, bushes, and scrubs. God placed everything here upon the earth for our healing. We just need to study which ones and use them. When the children of Israel came to Marah, they couldn't drink the water. The Lord showed Moses a tree and he cast it into the waters and the waters were sweet and able to be drank. The angel told Ezekiel in Ezekiel 47, that the leaf of the trees shall be for medicine, "And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine" (Ezekiel 47:12). When John got a glimpse into heaven in Revelation 22, the angel told John that the leaves of the tree were for the healing of nations. "And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations" (Revelation 22:1-2). Jesus said that He was the true vine and that we are the branches (John 15:1-5). Having an understanding of this, the leaves grow on the branches. When Jesus gave us the great commission, He said that we would lay hands on the sick and they shall recover. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover" (Mark 16:15-18). David said that we are to be like trees planted by the rivers of water (Psalms 1:1-4). Let me encourage you today: God has anointed you for a purpose; and that is to make the water sweet. When you preach the gospel, it is for the healing of nations, so make it sweet.

Sing: He's sweet I know, Jesus is sweet I know; storm clouds may rise, and strong winds may blow; but I'll tell the world, everywhere I go, that I've found my Savior, and He's sweet I know.

2011 November 21 - Morning Manna

2011-11-21T00:01:00.000-06:00

Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips (Psalms 141:3).

Today’s Morsel: When I use to play football in the Army, everyone had to have a mouth piece or mouth guard for protection. As quarterback, it was hard calling the plays so that the other players could all hear me with the mouth piece in, so I took it out. We ran a play and gained many yards and I looked and the referee had thrown a flag. When I asked him what the penalty was for, he said it was because I didn’t have my mouth piece in. I said, "Are you are kidding me?!" He said it was part of the safety rule. Mouth pieces serve as protectors so you don’t lose your teeth.

The Psalmist asked the Lord to set a watch before his mouth and to keep the door of his lips. When we have the protection of the Lord at our mouth, we won’t utter words that aren’t please to Him, nor will we snare ourselves with wrong wording. If you find yourself uttering and saying things that you shouldn’t, or yelling at your loved ones, then why not ask the Lord to set a watch at your mouth. Sticks and stones may break bones, but it is sure that wrong words do hurt.

Sing: I will praise Him! I will praise Him! Praise the Lamb for sinner slain! Give Him glory all ye people, for His blood can wash away each stain.

2011 November 19 - Morning Manna

2011-11-19T00:01:00.000-06:00

Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there. And there was no water for the congregation: and they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron. And the people chode with Moses, and spake, saying, Would God that we had died when our brethren died before the LORD! And why have ye brought up the congregation of the LORD into this wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there? And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink. (Numbers 20:1-5)

Today's Morsel: I use to love watching those old westerns where the people in wagon trains would be heading west, and they would come to the bad lands and there would be no water. I use to sit and wonder, "What are they going to do?" They would begin to complain. Their livestock would begin to die. They would hold their canteens, which were already empty, up to their mouth, trying to get more water to come out. And then the scout would locate some water, only to realize it was bad or someone had poisoned it. In the end, they would locate a river flowing with much fresh water.

The children of Israelwere on a journey heading to the promised land and they were without water. They began to complain to Moses and Aaron that they had been brought out into the wilderness to die. They said, Wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink. No one can live without water. Even NASA spends billions on exploring Mars looking for water, because they know that if there is life on Mars there has to be water. In John 4, when the woman of Samaria came to the well to draw water, Jesus asked her for a drink. They both needed water. Jesus needed natural water and she needed spiritual. What about you? Could you use some spiritual water today? Are you feeling a little dry and parched? You can't live without the water and only Jesus can satisfy your soul. He is The Living Water. When you are drinking from His fountain, you will never thirst again.

Sing: I thirsted in a barren land of sin and shame, and nothing satisfying there I found. But to the blessed Cross of Christ one day I came, where springs on living water did abound. Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul they satisfy. Drinking at the springs of living water, a wonderful and bountiful supply.

2011 November 18 - Morning Manna

2011-11-18T00:01:00.001-06:00

"David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men" (1 Samuel 22:1-2).

Today's Morsel: One of the things I liked about being a Drill Instructor was changing misfits into warriors. The word misfit here is not used in a negative way. It's just that most recruits don't have any knowledge about being a soldier when they first enlist. In a sense, David was a Drill Instructor. He took about four hundred men and turned them into a force to be reckoned with. These men became mighty men of valor. Many folk, when they first come into the church, have no idea what the church is all about. But after some training and directions in their lives, they too become a force to be reckoned with. They quickly put their enemy on the run. They are swift to deliver men from the fire. They become preachers, teachers, evangelist, administrators, and helpers. They immediately take hold to the Gospel and go forth with the Spirit of the Lord upon them, because they know that they have been anointed to preach the gospel to the poor; that Jesus has sent them to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recoveryg of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19).

They are mighty warriors and they won't back down from any. They see every challenge as a reason to express the hope that is within them. So if you are a pastor today, see everyone in your church as a potential warrior for Christ. Train them and help them become mighty men (and women) of valor.

Sing: Mighty warrior, dressed for battle, Holy Lord all is He. Commander in Chief, bring us to attention, lead us into battle to crush the enemy.

Satan has no authority here in this place, he has no authority here, for this habitation was fashioned for the Lord’s presence, no authority here.

Jesus has all authority, here in this place, He has all authority here. For this habitation was fashioned for the Lord’s presence, all authority here.

2011 November 17 - Morning Manna

2011-11-17T00:01:00.000-06:00

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. (Proverbs 15:1-2)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever wondered how fights get started? They often get started by words. Someone says something that the other person doesn't like and the exchange of harsh words pursue. The same way that it takes two to tango, it takes two to fight. If we would be wise, we would walk away and not allow ourselves to be drawn into confrontation that could lead to hurt and anger. Solomon said that a soft answer turns away wrath. Of all the kings of Israel, Solomon was the only one that Israel did not have war under. They went for forty years without war. Solomon was a man of much wisdom. He said that the wise uses knowledge the correct way. Are you one of those that feels you have to get the last word in? Do you feel as though when someone says something that you do not like that you have to respond to their words? Remember, a soft answer turns away anger. So don't feel as though you have to say anything when someone speaks ill of you or says something that you don't like, as "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).

Sing: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thou sight, O' Lord. Let the words that I say, be pleasing unto thee, that they bring glory unto you, O' Lord!

2011 November 16 - Morning Manna

2011-11-16T00:10:00.000-06:00

After this manner he made the ten bases: all of them had one casting, one measure, and one size. (1 Kings 7:37)

Today's Morsel: I noticed that many hat sizes say that one size fits all. Meaning that no matter the size of one's head, the hat will fit. But does one size really fit all? The Bible says that when Hiram was constructing the house of God under King Solomon's leadership, he made ten bases: all of them had one casting, one measure, and one size. They were all the same.

What about when it comes to the church, does one size fit all? Yes, it should fit all. And here's why:

· "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD" (Deuteronomy 6:4)

· "I and my Father are one "(John 10:30).

· "But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him"(1 Corinthians 8:6).

· "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all" (Ephesians 4:4-6)

· " For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one" (1 John 5:7-8).

When it come to the church, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12). And that one name, Jesus, fits all.

Sing: Jesus! Jesus! Jesus! sweetest name I know, fills my every longing, keeps me singing as I go.

2011 November 15 - Morning Manna

2011-11-15T00:01:00.000-06:00

If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. (James 2:8-9)

Today's Morsel: If someone was to ask you if you have a special preacher that you like to hear speak, who would it be? For me, I have lots of men that I like to hear preach, but I do not idolize them. Many people in the church are spiritual groupies. Some people will follow certain preachers and singers all around the world just to hear them speak or sing, but they will not follow Jesus. I often wonder if it is really the speaking and singing or could there is a lust issue with them? Paul and Apollos even had groupies in their day. To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote, "For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal" (1 Corinthians 3:3-4)? The Apostle Paul wanted all of his followers not to just follow him, but to become imitators of Christ. He said we are nothing but ministers of Christ. Even Jesus had groupies following Him, until He made a comment that they did not like, and then they stopped following Him. James tells us that if we have respect to persons, we commit sin and are convincted of the law as transgressors. It's okay to have our special speakers and singers that we like, but they must not become idols that we think that no one else can compare to them. We should never allow anyone or anything to assume Christ's place in our lives, because only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Sing: Follow! Follow! I would follow Jesus! Anywhere, everywhere I would follow on! Follow! follow! I would follow Jesus! Everywhere He leads me, I would follow on!