1 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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

Today’s Morsel: Wallace Johnson, co-Founder of Holiday Inns, said and I quote: “I’ve had a lot of success and my share of trials. I’ve worked long and hard, often as much as 16 hours a day, under some trying circumstances. Through them all, I’ve learned that the only answer to problems and to the future of the world - is having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The only people who are truly happy are those who have found Jesus. The one reason we’ve always had an open Bible in every room in the Holiday Inn motels is to help people find Jesus and the solution to their problems, no matter who they are. I could reminisce about how that open Bible has saved thousands. Once a man from Mobile, Alabama, who had some business reversal packed a gun and drove to Birmingham with the intention of killing himself. When he checked into a Holiday Inn and found the open Bible in his room, he read it and found Jesus.”

I can agree with Mr. Johnson. The word of God has the answer to life's problems, but we must open it and study it to find our answer. I believe that when Jesus said, "You can find me when you seek for me with your whole heart," He was referring to studying His Word. He is the living word. Friend, no matter what the personal problems, social problems, or any other kind of problem you may have, the solution is found in the Word of God, and you coming into knowledge and having a personal relationship with Him. He’s made the difficult way perfect in my life, why not allow Him to do the same in your?

Sing: God will make way, where there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see, He will make a way for me. He will be your guide, hold you closely to His side. With loving strength, for each new day, He will make a way, He will make a way.

27 February 2010 - Morning Manna

According to the eternal purpose which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord: In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of him. Wherefore I desire that ye faint not at my tribulations for you, which is your glory. For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named
(Ephesians 3:11-15).

Today’s Morsel: When God placed you into His family, He took responibility for your life and your problems. David probably stated it best when he said, “The Lord is my Shepherd I shall not want.” God owns the cattle on a thousand hill, the earth is His and the fullness thereof. God doesn’t run out of things. His compassion and mercy is renewed every morning, Jeremiah said. (Lamentation 3:22-24) God has unlimited resources. As He told David, if what I had given you was not enough, all you had to do was ask. When we trust God, we move beyond our understanding and comprehension, into a dimension of belief where we are willing to relax because you know that He’s watching over us. When we reach the place that everything we own belongs to God, then we will realize that everything that God owns belongs to us because we are a part of the family. One of the problems with us humans is we always want to know what God’s will is, so that we can determine if we will trust Him and do what He wants us to do. But God reveals His will only to those who are committed to follow it. God simply says, "Trust me." And if you aren’t willing to do that, then you’ll never know nor understand His will.

Sing: I trust in God, wherever I may be, upon the land or on the rolling sea, for come what may, from day to day, my Heavenly Father watches over, over me.

And I trust in God, I know he cares for me, on the mountain bleak, or on the raging sea; though billows roar, He keeps my soul, my Heavenly Father watches over, over me.

26 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And all the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink. Wherefore the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD? And the people thirsted there for water; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, Wherefore is this that thou hast brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us and our children and our cattle with thirst? And Moses cried unto the LORD, saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me. And the LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go. Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel. And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah, because of the chiding of the children of Israel, and because they tempted the LORD, saying, Is the LORD among us, or not? (Exodus 17:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: The current weather patterns and earthquakes that have been taking place can make one wonder if God is among us. Rest assured, God is right here with us. He knows everything that is taking place and when it is going to happen. Isaiah said, “Behold, the LORD'S hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear. For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness. None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity” (Isaiah 59:1-4). If you ever get to a point that you think God isn’t present, then you need to do as the Apostle Paul admonishes us, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates” (2 Corinthians 13:5) Are you walking and living by and in the faith? If you are, then you should never question God's presence, as you know that He is as close as the mention of His name.

Sing: I’m going to make it, He already said that I would. He goes before me, and He’s working everything for my good. He walks beside me, and heaven is in my view, Oh, I’m gonna make it through.

25 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her (Ruth 1:11-18).

Today’s Morsel: The book of Ruth is probably one of the most power-packed books in the Bible. Ruth reveals to us just what commitment is. She is also an example for the Christian to never lose hope. Ruth reveals that sometimes life may not be fair, but we should not allow things to push us into depression and low self -esteem. Ruth is also a book of faith. When she chose the God of Israel to be her God, God took notice. When she chose to make God’s people her people, God took notice. When she chose to dwell in the land where God’s people were, God took notice. This is an example of being committed to your vows and not allowing your location and situation affect your consecration to God. Let me encourage you, if your situation looks dim, don’t regress. Stay with God, His people, and in His church. God will honor your faith and give you a successful end the same as He did Ruth.

Sing: When gloom and sadness whisper you’ve sinned 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.

24 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Then came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of Jerusalem, saying, Why do thy disciples transgress the tradition of the elders? for they wash not their hands when they eat bread. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also transgress the commandment of God by your tradition? For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by me; And honour not his father or his mother, he shall be free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none effect by your tradition

(Matthew 15:1-6).

Today’s Morsel: Is the belief that Jesus is God Biblical or traditional? Is the belief of Jesus being a second person in the Godhead Biblical or traditional? Is the belief of no God at all Biblical or traditional? What would you say are some of the traditions you hold to that you may feel are true and that you don’t want to let go of? In some instances, tradition can be bad for you, especially if it goes against the Word of God. The Scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus why his disciples went against tradition of the elders by not washing their hands before they ate bread. I guess this is one of those traditions that our parents picked up, as they always says, “Go wash your hands before you eat.” But Jesus asked the Scribes and Pharisees a question, too. And that question was, “Why do you transgress the commandment of God by your tradition?” If we are not careful, we can assume that something is according to the Word of God because we’ve heard it for so long, or because our parents and others did it, we just think that it's based on God's Word when it may just be a tradition that is not based on God’s Word at all. I know of two things that can destroy a person when it comes to religion. One is sticking with man-made traditions that are not Biblically sound when it come to salvation; and two, not making a change in your life once you see Biblical truth. So just how much of what you are doing in the church today is tradition and how much is of real Biblical truth? Solomon tells is, "Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding" (Proverbs 23:23).

Sing: I serve a risen Saviour, He's in the world today; I know that he is living, whatever men may say, I see his hand of mercy, I hear His voice of cheer, and just the time I need Him He's always near. He lives, He lives, Christ Jesus lives to day! He walks with me and talks with me along life's narrow way. He lives, He lives, salvation to impart! You ask me how I know He lives? He lives within my heart.

23 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Now these are the judgments which thou shalt set before them. If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing. If he came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him. If his master have given him a wife, and she have born him sons or daughters; the wife and her children shall be her master's, and he shall go out by himself. And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free: Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever (Exodus 21:1-6).

Today’s Morsel: Reading and following through history, slavery has been around for quite sometimes. It didn’t begin in America, as far as we can tell, slavery actually began with the children of Israel. However, they were set free, but some of them maintained a slave mentality. You see, when you are a part of something for so long it becomes a part of you and you begin to take upon you its ways, and it becomes hard for you to break. After being set free, many of the Israelite, were used to the ways of Egypt and they wanted to return. The same is true with many people today. Jesus came to set them free from the world and the ways of the world, but because they have become so attached to the world, it’s hard for them to let go, and so they want to return to that lifestyle and way because they became so accustomed to it.

The Lord told Moses “Now these are the judgments which thou shalt set before them. If thou buy an Hebrew servant, six years he shall serve: and in the seventh he shall go out free for nothing. If he came in by himself, he shall go out by himself: if he were married, then his wife shall go out with him. If his master have given him a wife, and she have born him sons or daughters; the wife and her children shall be her master's, and he shall go out by himself. And if the servant shall plainly say, I love my master, my wife, and my children; I will not go out free: Then his master shall bring him unto the judges; he shall also bring him to the door, or unto the door post; and his master shall bore his ear through with an aul; and he shall serve him for ever.” They were to be given a choice to stay or they could go. So my question to you today is this, are you making yourself a self inducted slave to this world and the ways of the world? Have you allowed Satan, the master of this world, to put you against a door post and pierce your ear and make you his forever? Friend, Jesus came to make us free and if the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (John 8:36). You did your time in the world under Satan, harsh taskmaster leadership, and Jesus has paid your bail. Which choice will you make? Let me encourage you, go, and live free.

Sing: Once like a bird in prison I dwelt, no freedom from my sorrow I felt, but Jesus came and listened to me, and glory to God, he set me free.

He set me free, yes, He set me free; He broke the bonds of prison for me. I’m glory bound my Jesus to see, glory to God He set me free.

22 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God (Matthew 14:22-33).

Today’s Morsel: Now that I live here in Wisconsin, during these winter months I’ve seen many folks walking on water. That’s right; the ice fishermen here are always walking out onto the frozen lakes and rivers fishing. Even though the water is frozen, it still takes faith to go out there. I guess my faith hasn’t gotten there yet, because I can't imagine sitting on a block of ice trying to catch a fish.

When Jesus came walking on the water to His disciple in the storm, they were afraid, until Jesus told them who He was, to which Peter replied, “If it be you, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?” The focus always seems to be that Peter took his eyes off the Lord. Is that really what happened that caused him to sink, or was there something else? Remember, they thought that they saw a ghost. Did Jesus disappear after Peter got out of the boat and start toward Jesus walking on the water, and now Peter was confused and began to sink? You see faith is being able to see Jesus in the dark. It’s being able to know that wherever He was when He bid you come is where He still is. He’s still there even though you may not be able to see Him. Jesus is the living water, and anytime we do not do what He tell us to do through His Word we are walking on Him. When we are disobedient to Him, He will only allow us to walk on Him but for so long, and then He will let us sink in our own ways until we cry out unto Him to save us as Peter did.

Sing: He said come unto me; all ye who are weary, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and learn of me, and your soul shall be blessed.

20 February 2010 - Morning Manna

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: In the 70’s, Tony Orlando and Dawn wrote a song title, “Tie A Yellow Ribbon Around The Old Oak Tree.” Today, with many of our military members being deployed, I have noticed many yellow ribbons tied around trees and on car bumpers. They are saying, "Yes I/we still want you back." When you truly love someone or something, there is always a craving within to see or to hold that someone or something. The psalmist said of the Lord, “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 forever.” Like the psalmist, I find myself saying and wanting to caress the Lord. There are times I want to be like the apostle John and just lay my head upon His bosom. Sometimes this old world just seems to get a little bit too big and I want to convert to my childhood and just crawl up on my Daddy’s knee. Sometimes my flesh and heart fail me, but because I know that He is my strength and my portion forever, I am able to lift my hands in praise to Him, and feel the joy and pride that it brings when I feel His presence surrounding me. Friend, when the Lord is your portion, nothing else will satisfy you, and you never have to worry about being empty of anything you have need of. And you never need to worry, He always wants you.

Sing: God is the joy and the strength of my life, He moves 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 His narrow way, keep my life clean everyday; I want to go with Him when He comes back, I've come to far and I'll never turn back.

God is (3x), God is my all in all.

19 February 2010 - Morning Manna

For in the hand of the LORD there is a cup, and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and he poureth out of the same: but the dregs thereof, all the wicked of the earth shall wring them out, and drink them (Psalms 75:8).

Today’s Morsel: Looking around our house, I seem to have quite a few cups that I have accumulated over the years of my travels. I have cups with military logos, cups with pictures of my kids and grand-kids, and cups from different countries. Cups service many purposes. Some cups are for drinking coffee, while others are for drinking tea. Jesus asked His disciples James and John if they were able to drink from the cup that He drank from (Matthew 20:22). Paul said that we cannot drink of the cup of the Lord and the cup of the devil (1 Corinthians 10:21). The psalmist said that in the hand of the Lord there is a cup and the wine is red; it is full of mixture; and He poureth out of the same. But can you drink from His cup. Sad to say, too many that are called Christians aren’t drinking from the cup of the Lord, but have chosen to drink from the cup of the devil. The apostle Paul said of this cup, “The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:16)? He further stated, “For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord. But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. For he that eateth and drinketh unworthily, eateth and drinketh damnation to himself, not discerning the Lord's body. For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep. For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged” (1 Corinthians 11:23-31). Paul said that some had taken it unworthily. When you drink the cup of the Lord, it requires commitment and dedication to serve. If you aren’t going to serve and allow your life to be an example of Him, maybe you shouldn’t drink of this cup, as this cup of the Lord is designed so that you will stay in communion with Him. It is designed to make you like Him, so that blessings may be imparted upon you. Even if you have to suffer for drinking from this cup which is in His hand, the reward which is to be achieved will still outweigh the suffering. Let me encourage you, drink of His cup, but do it worthy.

Sing: Fill 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!

18 February 2010 - Morning Manna

When he slew them, then they sought him: and they returned and enquired early after God. And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer. Nevertheless they did flatter him with their mouth, and they lied unto him with their tongues. For their heart was not right with him, neither were they stedfast in his covenant. But he, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity, and destroyed them not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath. For he remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again (Psalms 78:34-39).

Today’s Morsel: I have heard people say that God isn’t fair. But when we read Scripture, we can see that God goes above and beyond to provide and care for us. But we, often times, do not thank Him for all that He does for us. Scripture says that they flatter (sweet-talked) God with their mouth, they lied to Him, and neither was their heart right with him, nor did they keep his covenant. And after they did all of this, God, being full of compassion, forgave their iniquity and destroyed them not. Many a time turned he his anger away and did not stir up all his wrath. He remembered that they were but flesh; a wind that passeth away, and cometh not again. If you don’t think that you are serving a good God, what more proof do we need. Jeremiah said of Him, “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). Jeremiah said that God didn’t allow him to be destroyed, but had compassion on him and delivered him. Friend, stop and think about how good Jesus has been to you. Paul said that God is not willing that any should perish, but that all would come to repentance. When we turn from our wicked ways and come unto Him, He will abundantly pardon. If you need forgiveness today, He is a God that hears and a God that cares.

Sing: Amazing grace, shall always be my song of praise; for it was grace that brought my liberty. I do not know, just why He came to love me so, He looked beyond my faults, and saw my need.

I shall forever lift my eyes to Calvary, to view the cross where Jesus died for me, how marvelous the grace that caught my falling soul, He looked beyond my faults and saw my needs.

17 February 2010 - Morning Manna

The priests said not, Where is the LORD? and they that handle the law knew me not: the pastors also transgressed against me, and the prophets prophesied by Baal, and walked after things that do not profit. Wherefore I will yet plead with you, saith the LORD, and with your children's children will I plead. For pass over the isles of Chittim, and see; and send unto Kedar, and consider diligently, and see if there be such a thing. Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit. Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this, and be horribly afraid, be ye very desolate, saith the LORD. For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water

 (Jeremiah 2:8-13).

Today’s Morsel: I wonder, just how much of our health issues is cause due to a lack of water consumption? When I was a kid, we were told in health class that we should drink at least eight (8) eight ounce glasses of water each day. That means, we would consume at least a gallon of water per-day. We may not realize it, but our body uses water in many ways that we may not even be aware of and therefore it needs to be replenished. We can live without just about anything except water. When we have a lack of water in our bodies, we begin to dehydrate, thus we are taking a chance of causing injury to our bodies. We must do everything we can to stay hydrated, both naturally and spiritually. Sodas, coffee, tea, power drinks, and juices are all substitutes for water that may quench thirst but they will never meet the required need of the body. They may make you feel good temporarily, but they will not meet the need of your body that water does.

The Lord told Jeremiah that his people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water. They had gone from the Living Water and tried to meet their needs by themselves. Friend, nothing can replace Jesus. No matter how hard we may try, you aren’t going to find a substitute for Him. Jesus told the woman at the well, “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life” (John 4:13-14). Notice, she would have a well within herself. Not a natural well of water, but a spiritual well of water that would give her everlasting life. So let me encourage you today as the apostle Paul tells us, “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking 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 5:18-20). Remember, only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Sing: I thirsted in a 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 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, oh wonderful and bountiful supply.

16 Februay 2010 - Morning Manna

For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones (Isaiah 57:15).

Today’s Morsel: Have you considered eternity lately? Have you stopped to evaluate just where you plan to live after this life? What preparations are you making? Are you working daily to establish a plan that will ensure your eternal salvation in your heavenly home? The Bible says in 2 Kings 7:3 “And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die?” This is a very good question for all of us. Why in the world would anyone just sit and do nothing about getting ready for eternity? The five foolish virgins had no oil and they missed out. You need to start now t ensure you are ready. As the old leadership saying goes, " If you fail to plan, you plan to fail." The Bible has a pattern that we must all follow after we have been born again of the water and the Spirit. And that pattern is to “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord” (Hebrews 12:14). Friend it's never to late to get ready. Tomorrow is not promised.

Sing: I've a home prepared where the saints abide, just over in the glory land, and I long to be by my Savior's side, just over in the glory land

Chorus
Just over in the glory land, I'll join (yes join) the happy angel band, Just over in the glory land, Just over (over) in the glory land, There with (yes with) the mighty host I'll stand, Just over in the glory land.

15 February 2010 - Morning Manna

In Judah is God known: his name is great in Israel

(Psalms 76:1).

Today’s Morsel: The book of Matthew begins with the words, “The book of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham” (Matthew 1:1). When we look into scripture, we can see that both Jesus and David were of the tribe of Judah. Isaiah said, “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). He also recorded that , “And he said, Hear ye now, O house of David; Is it a small thing for you to weary men, but will ye weary my God also? Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:13-14). The sons name would be called Immanuel. Matthew, who opens the lineage line of Judah, said, “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 1:21-25). The Psalmist said that in Judah is God known. Judah means praise. Therefore, in your praise is God known. How you exalt and magnify Him will make Him known unto others and they will be able to see just how great He truly is.

Sing: VERSE 1: The splendor of a King, clothed in majesty, Let all the earth rejoice, all the earth rejoice. He wraps himself in light, and darkness tries to hide, it trembles at his voice, trembles at his voice.

CHORUS 1:
How great is our God, sing with me, How great is our God, and all will see, How great, how great is our God

VERSE 2:
And age to age He stands, and time is in His Hands, Beginning and the End, Beginning and the End; The Godhead, three in one, Father, Spirit, Son; the Lion and the Lamb, the Lion and the Lamb.

CHORUS 2:
Name above all names, Worthy of all praise, My heart will sing, how great is our God, Name above all names, you are worthy of all praise, and my heart will sing, how great is our God.

13 February 2010 - Morning Manna

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).

Today’s Morsel: Doctrine serves two purposes. First: To ensure compliance to established regulations and publications written by higher headquarters; and Second: To ensure standards are enforced and maintained. During my Army days, when I conducted military inspections upon units, when I walked into the unit, the first thing I asked for was to see their doctrine. In other words, I wanted to see all the regulations and publications for the area I was inspecting. If a unit had outdated regulations or publications or they were missing some, they always received a failing mark in that area and other areas, unless they had them on order and they had not arrived at the unit yet. I knew there was no way the unit could be ensuring and enforcing the standard if they didn't have the proper regulations or publications, because the standard is set forth by higher headquarters based on doctrine.

I was once asked by a man in the church that I pastored which Bible is the right Bible to usd. My reply to him was that I use the King James Version (KJV) of the Bible, because that was what I had always used, and that was what I used to determine and set the standards for the church. To me, the KJV is Biblical doctrine. Jesus and the apostles enforced doctrine. Jesus said to the religious leaders, “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. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no unrighteousness is in him. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you keepeth the law? Why go ye about to kill me?” (John 7:16-19. Notice, Jesus said His doctrine was from higher headquarters and they weren’t enforcing it. Thus, Jesus was giving them a failing grade. This scenario that Jesus mentioned here was the same way in the military. When units received a failing grade for not enforcing the standard, they always became angry and wanted to kill the inspector for their own lack of compliance. 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). They were to teach no other doctrine. He said 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). Paul said that the scriptures were given by inspiration of God, (they came from Higher Headquarters; Heaven) and is profitable for use in ensuring compliance and enforcing the standards in the church. The fivefold ministry ( mentioned in Ephesians 4:11) was for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine (Ephesians 4:12-15). So I ask you today, do you get upset and angry when someone tells you what to do in the church that you attend? Do you see the standards as being too hard? Let me encourage you, before you walk away from a church because of its stand of holiness and requiring you to separate yourself from the ways of the world, you may want ask the pastor what Bible is he is using to enforce his standards. And then, you read your Bible to see if what they are saying and teaching is true. You just might be surprised by what you find. Inspection day is coming, and God forbid the soul that is not in compliance with God’s word.

Sing: Show me Your ways that I may walk with You. Show me Your ways, I put my hope in You. The cry of my heart is to love You more, to live with the touch of Your hand, stronger each day, show me Your ways.

12 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord (Romans 8:35-39).

Today’s Morsel: Paul said that we are more than conquerors. We don’t just win, but we trash our opponents. We go beyond just winning, we pour it on. We are so much stronger and better than our opponent that we gain a decisive victory, just by showing up. If we were in a game, the people would rise and head home, because they would know that there is no way that our opponents can we. Friend, there is no way that Satan can win. He has been defeated and there is no chance of him winning, as long as we keep piling and pouring on the praise and worship to our God. There is nothing better than watching the home team win. The writer of Hebrews says, “Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God” (Hebrews 12:1-2). The patriarchs of old are watching the game to see if we will keep pouring it on. Because we are more than conquerors, nothing should be able to separate us from Christ. The apostle Paul was a conqueror over anything and everything that came his way, and if we say that we are apostolic and believers of Jesus Christ, we must do the same.

Sing: I’ve got the victory, over the enemy, and the world can’t do me no harm. I’ve got the victory, over the enemy, and the world can’t do me no harm. No harm! No Harm! No Harm! No Harm! Cause I’ve got the victory, over the enemy, and the world can’t do me no harm.

11 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Then spake the chief butler unto Pharaoh, saying, I do remember my faults this day: Pharaoh was wroth with his servants, and put me in ward in the captain of the guard's house, both me and the chief baker: And we dreamed a dream in one night, I and he; we dreamed each man according to the interpretation of his dream. And there was there with us a young man, an Hebrew, servant to the captain of the guard; and we told him, and he interpreted to us our dreams; to each man according to his dream he did interpret. And it came to pass, as he interpreted to us, so it was; me he restored unto mine office, and him he hanged. Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh (Genesis 41:9-14).

Today’s Morsel: After spending many years in prison, Joseph's day finally came for him to be released from prison. Joseph was being summoned to meet the king. If you will notice the first thing that Joseph did was get himself prepared to meet the king. He shaved himself and changed his garments. Joseph was not about to appear before the king looking any old way. This is a great lesson for each of us. We should never appear before Jesus looking just any old way. Joseph saw it as an honor and an opportunity that the king would send for him. He saw it as an honor because only certain people were able to get close to the king or come before his presence. Joseph also saw it as an opportunity to be used of God for His purpose. We should always strive to come before God with thanksgiving in our heart, and into His court with praise wearing and looking our very best. It seems as though many of God’s people today are starting to come before Him dressed and looking any old way. All of us, if we were summoned by the president of our country, would go out of our way to look our very best before we appeared before him or her; how much more when we appear before the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Always remember, you represent Jesus 24-hours a day no matter where you are. We never know when He will call for us to come before Him. Does your attire and countenance show others that you belong to Jesus? One of the things the military taught me was that I do not represent myself only, but the entire military. And therefore, when I put-on my uniform, I should always look my best, as I was a recruiting tool. Would God place you on a recruiting poster for His church?

Sing: Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, lift up your voice to God, pray in the spirit, and with understanding, Oh magnify the Lord!

10 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And he left them, and went out of the city into Bethany; and he lodged there. Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he hungered. And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away. And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying, How soon is the fig tree withered away! Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive
(Matthew 21:17-22).

Today’s Morsel: There have been many speculations as to why Jesus cursed the fig tree because it had no figs but only leaves. Some have speculated that it was not the season for figs yet and therefore there would not have been any figs on the tree. But Jesus saw differently. Apparently this action by our Lord was a teaching lesson for the disciples and those of us who follow Him. Let’s look at this. David said “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper” (Psalms 1:1-3). Jeremiah said, “Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit” (Jeremiah 17:7-8). Taking what Jeremiah said here as an example, the fig tree that Jesus went to had leaves but had ceased from yielding her fruit. Therefore, it would have been in violation of what it should have continued to do, bear fruit. Jesus said in John 15: 2 “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.” The Lord saw it as a tree in the way and one not fulfilling it duties. Something was wrong with it. Like many saints of God, this tree had stopped yielding fruit, not knowing that the Lord was going to appear to eat from the tree. Let me encourage you today, never stop bearing and yielding fruit. If you say you are born again, that means, as Jeremiah said, your leaves should always be green and you should be bearing fruit. Jesus should always find the Fruit of the Spirit upon you. David said, “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him” (Psalms 92:12-15). We are trees of righteousness, the planted of the Lord, that He might be glorified. Have you done any pruning of the soul lately? Don’t let Jesus catch you barren.

Sing: I shall not be, I shall not be moved. I shall not be, I shall not be moved; just like a tree, planted by the water, I shall not moved.

9 February 2010 - Morning Manna

But what I do, that I will do, that I may cut off occasion from them which desire occasion; that wherein they glory, they may be found even as we. 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 (2 Corinthians 11:12-15).

Today’s Morsel: Beware of terrorist groups in church. Latest news reports are that five terrorist cell groups have been operating in many of our churches. They have been identified as: Bin Sleeping, Bin Arguing, Bin Fighting, Bin Complaining, and Bin Missing. Their leader, Lucifer Bin Working, trained these groups to destroy the body of Christ. The plan is to come into the church disguised as Christians and to work within the church to discourage, disrupt, and destroy. However, there have been reports of a sixth group. A tiny cell known by the name Bin Praying is actually the only effective counter terrorism force in the church. Unlike other terrorist cells, the Bin Praying team does not blend in with whoever and whatever comes along. Bin Praying does whatever is needed to uplift and encourage the body of Christ. We have noticed that the Bin Praying cell group has different characteristics than the others. They have Bin Watching, Bin Waiting, Bin Fasting, and Bin Longing for their Master, Jesus Christ to return. NO CHURCH IS EXEMPT! (However, you can spot them if you bin looking and bin going.)

Can you identify the true workers of the Lord from the false ones? The apostle Paul said “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.” Let me encourage you today, get into the Word of God study to ensure that you aren’t being lead by false prophets and teachers of Satan. Remember, Satan knows the Word of God and can preach a good message, too. But if you have been studying and have a strong relationship with Jesus, you’ll be able to identify them by the little things that they say and do. So keep you heart with all diligence for out of it are the issues of life.

Sing: There is none like you, no one else can touch my heart like you do; I can search throughout eternity long and find, there is none like you.

8 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And the children of Israel did so: and Joseph gave them wagons, according to the commandment of Pharaoh, and gave them provision for the way. To all of them he gave each man changes of raiment; but to Benjamin he gave three hundred pieces of silver, and five changes of raiment. And to his father he sent after this manner; ten asses laden with the good things of Egypt, and ten she asses laden with corn and bread and meat for his father by the way. So he sent his brethren away, and they departed: and he said unto them, See that ye fall not out by the way (Genesis 45:21-24).

Today’s Mosel: When I first joined the Army, they would always use the guys that were overweight to be the road guards. The road guard's purpose was to run ahead of the formation as fast as possible to the intersections or road crossings to stop the traffic. The Drill Instructors felt that by making the overweight soldiers run often it would help them lose weight. I can remember once when one of the guys in our platoon was called upon to take his post as road guard, but he was not present. He had fallen out by the way. He couldn’t take all the running that was required of him. Like that road guard, many people are carrying too much weight of the world and cares of their past, and they aren’t able to be where they are supposed to be when they are called upon, because they have fallen out by the way. I’m sure that many of you have seen people that come into the church and they are immediately on fire for the Lord, but all of a sudden they wane and you don’t see them anymore and you wonder what happened to them. Well the answer lies in the fact that they fell out by the way. They allowed something to pull them off the pathway. When Joseph sent his brothers to go get his father Jacob he told them, “See that ye fall not out by the way.” In other words, don’t you allow anything to stop you or cause you to stop along the way. We must not allow anything to pull us off the path that Jesus has placed us upon. We are heading to our heavenly home and there will be things trying to tempt you, but as the apostle Peter tell us,” Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 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. But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you” (1 Peter 5:6-10). So stay the course and do not fall out by the way, there is a great reward waiting for you.

Sing: For me for me for me, there’s a mansion there for me, in glory land so bright and far, where the victory crown I soon shall wear; come and go with me, for I won't be back you see, if anybody’s gonna be happy over there it’s me me me me me.

6 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And they took Joseph's coat, and killed a kid of the goats, and dipped the coat in the blood; And they sent the coat of many colours, and they brought it to their father; and said, This have we found: know now whether it be thy son's coat or no. And he knew it, and said, It is my son's coat; an evil beast hath devoured him; Joseph is without doubt rent in pieces. And Jacob rent his clothes, and put sackcloth upon his loins, and mourned for his son many days. And all his sons and all his daughters rose up to comfort him; but he refused to be comforted; and he said, For I will go down into the grave unto my son mourning. Thus his father wept for him. And the Midianites sold him into Egypt unto Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh's, and captain of the guard (Genesis 37:31-36).

Today’s Morsel: When Joseph's brothers wanted to deceive their father Jacob for their error of hating and selling their brother Joseph into slavery, they took his coat of many colors and dipped it into blood to make it appear as though a wild animal had killed him. Joseph's brothers took his garment from him. I wonder if Joseph's brothers cast lots upon his coat before they decided to dip it with blood to see who would get it. They dipped his coat in blood. Why blood? The apostle John's writing in the book of Revelation speaking of Jesus said, “And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God” (Revelations 19:13). Joseph's brothers saw him as their enemy because he would tell his father of their evil doings. Why not rip his coat into pieces? Because this garment was special the same way as Jesus' garment was special. Joseph is a type and shadow of Jesus Christ. David said of Jesus, “They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture” (Psalms 22:18). Matthew completes the fulfillment by writing, “And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture did they cast lots” (Matthew 27:35). Because Joseph's coat was of many colors, it represented the body of Christ, as Jesus is no respecter of persons. Therefore, every born again believer who has repented of their sins and is baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of those sins has been dipped in His blood. “And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission” (Hebrews 9:22). Joseph was sold for 20 pieces of silver. Jesus was sold for 30 pieces of silver. Joseph was sold into slavery, Jesus was crucified. And this happened all because of hatred for them both. But both Joseph and Jesus were sent forth by God to preserve life. And as Paul Harvey would say, and now you know the rest of the story.

Sing: The blood that Jesus shed for me, way back on Calvary, it's the blood that gives me strength, from day to day, it will never lose its power. For it reaches, to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley, it’s the blood, that gives me strength, from day, to day, it will never lose its power.

5 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is brutish (Proverbs 12:1).

Today’s Morsel: How many of you would say that you always follow the instructions? I have come to realize that very few people follow instructions given to them. I’m sure that some of you may have attended a school course and the instructor, wanting to see if you were paying attention to his instructions, gave you this so called fast test. When he said go, people were running and jumping, calling out their name, and so on and so forth, and when they finished and read the instructions again, it just said, "Read through the entire test before doing anything." And then the last question on the test said to only sign the paper and turn it in. The word Bible stands for, “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” Therefore, we need to follow what it tells us to do. Solomon said,"Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge." Knowledge is all that can be known. It’s all the information, facts, truths, and principles we can learn throughout our time. Solomon also said, “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding” (Proverbs 9:9-10). When God says to us, you have not obeyed My word, He’s saying, you have not followed the instructions I’ve given you. A man’s ways are cleansed by the Word of God. God knows what’s best for us, and so He gave us instructions to follow. I have come to realize that most problems, circumstances, and hardships that come a Christians way, are often because they do not follow Biblical instructions. If “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), should not all Christians have the same way for people to be saved? There cannot be more than one way. Let me leave you with a question today. Is your salvation based on Biblical instructions or man’s instructions? Who's instructions are you following?

Sing: Saved! Saved! Saved! I’m happy on my way. Saved! Saved! Saved! I love Him more each day. Saved! Saved! Saved! I know He’s mine each hour, cause He saves and He keeps and He satisfies me by His power!

4 February 2010 - Morning Manna

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

Today’s Morsel: If you know anything about the Olympics or follow the Olympics, it’s the chance of a lifetime for the athlete to win a crown. When those participates enter the field, they know that they have to give it their all if they in every way to stand a chance of being in the winner’s circle at the end. The same is true for the Christian. We have to give it our all. A false start, enhanced drug usage, illegal promotional contracts, and many other things can disqualify a participant in the Olympics. False doctrine, traditions, philosophies, and continual usage of the world’s ways can disqualify a Christian in this race. Using this analogy of a race Paul said, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” Every believer is in this race, the race for eternal life. And we are running for the finish line. And we must cross to win. But the rules in this race are a little different than a natural race. The only person you are running against is yourself. This race will test your integrity as you run. It will test just how honest you are with yourself. It will also test your endurance, self-control, discipline, patience, and your faith. You only get one shot to cross the finish line. So my question to you today is this, will the crowd of witnesses which have gone on before us cheer as you cross the finish line or will they hang their head in shame? What will Jesus say to you? Will He say, "Well done, thy good and faith servant", or will He say "Who did hinder you that you should not have obeyed the truth."

Sing: Many once started to run in this race, but with our Redeemer they could not keep pace; others accepted because it was new, but not very many seem bound to go through.

But I’m going through, yes, I’m going through, I’ll pay the price, whatever others do; I’ll take the way, with the Lord’s despised few; I started out with Jesus, and I’m going through.

3 February 2010 - Morning Manna

And when he was come to the other side into the country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man might pass by that way. And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God? art thou come hither to torment us before the time? And there was a good way off from them an herd of many swine feeding. So the devils besought him, saying, If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine. And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come out, they went into the herd of swine: and, behold, the whole herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and perished in the waters. And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into the city, and told every thing, and what was befallen to the possessed of the devils. And, behold, the whole city came out to meet Jesus: and when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out of their coasts (Matthew 8:28-34).

Today’s Morsel: When the demons asked Jesus to let them go into the swine, I wonder if this is where the term “Deviled ham” came from? Sometime when you read through scripture we can get some good humor, as laughter is the best medicine for the soul.

I don’t know about you, but I don’t like it when I hear saints of God glorifying the devil at every turn in their life by saying what the devil is doing to them. Why so much elevation of the enemy? Are they not aware that each time they glorify and elevate the enemy of their soul they give him ammunition to defeat them and other weak Christians as well? When they do such things, either they themselves are outside of the sheepfold or they do not have a strong relationship with Jesus. You see, people who glorify the devil by talking about what the devil is doing in their life instead of what Jesus is doing in their life do not understand their God. People who do this are working and operating in their own strength and power and have forgotten that Jesus gave them power over every enemy of their soul. In Matthew 10, scripture says, “And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease…. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give” ((Matthew 10:1;7-8). Are you a disciple of Jesus? Friend, if you say that you are a born again believer, you must be it in more than just word only, you must be it in action and demonstration of God’s Spirit and power working in and through your life. The same way the devils begged Jesus to let them go into the swine, they should be requesting the same thing from you when you step on the scene.

Sing: God is great, and greatly to be praised, God is great in my soul. God is great, and greatly to be praised, God is great in my soul.

2 February 2010 - Morning Manna

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. But when ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him. After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. (Matthew 6:1-13)

Today’s Morsel: I’m sure if you have been around the church for long, you’ve heard a lot about prayer and the importance of prayer. Why did Jesus place so much emphasis on prayer? Part of Jesus’ teaching to His disciples was be careful how you pray. What did Jesus see in the temple that He was displeased with? What did He see when He saw the two men praying, that He felt that He needed to use as a teaching point for His disciples? Apparently, one of them was focused on himself in his praying, while the other was more focused on his repentance. There are many books and lessons that can be purchased to teach about prayer and how to pray, but Jesus gives us the best example when He said, "Enter into your secret closest, and close the door and there pray." Your secret closest is within yourself. In other words, you do not have to yell and scream at the top of your voice when you pray to make someone think that you are spiritual. In many ways, praying is a quiet time alone with just you and the Lord; you talking with Him and Him talking with you. If you are talking one on one with the Lord, I don’t think you focus on yourself and your achievements, I think you need to listen to what He desires to impart unto you. I don’t believe that you have to yell and scream at Him to get your point across. I believe that this is what Jesus wanted us to see in these two men's prayer lives.

The apostle asked Jesus, "Lord teach us to pray even as John taught His disciples to pray." Were they looking for a way of how to pray? Were they wanting to know what to say when they prayed? Did they see Jesus praying and they wanted to emulate His actions in their praying? Did they notice that Jesus accomplished great things after He prayed? Prayer, more than anything else, is communication with God and intercession for others. Jesus already knows the things that we have need of, therefore, we shouldn’t have to elevate ourselves during our pray time, nor ask Him for things for ourselves. I think that we should thank Him in advance for providing the things we have need of and for hearing our prayer for others. The key to feeling good about your prayer time is when you depart and you know that you have been in the presence of the Lord.

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.