2010 March 31 - Morning Manna

And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven (Matthew 16:17-19).

Today’s Morsel: Jesus, the greatest leader who every walked the earth, got to a point where He felt He need to check and see how His training of the disciples was going. "And so when Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, He asked His disciples, saying, “Who do men say that I the Son of man am?” And they said, some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God" (Matthew 16:13-16). I believe that Jesus may have said 'Thank goodness somebody is paying attention and listening here. Somebody finally understands what I’ve been trying to show you for the past three years. Peter you pass the test. And because you’ve been listening and know what I’m talking about, and where I’m coming from, I’m choosing you to be the leader after I’m gone. So I’m going to give you the keys to the kingdom of heaven and here they are.' Repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem (Luke 24:47). Have you been listening to Jesus when He speaks? Every time you open His word He is speaking to you. Are you grasping the meaning of what He is saying to you? The apostle Paul told the church at Galatia, "Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth?" (Galatians 5:7). Solomon said, "Get wisdom and with all thy getting, get an understanding." Peter seems to be the only one of Jesus disciples that had an understanding of what He was teaching and instructing them, until after the resurrection, and then they all understood. What about you? How is your understanding today? Are you still confused about who Jesus is? Through the prophet Isaiah, the Lord said: "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). Jesus said: “Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins (John 8:23-24). Do you know Him? Is your understanding of Jesus clear or is there still some fog? Peter got it because he was observant. If you really want to know Him, ask Him to reveal Himself to you and you just might be surprised what He shows you.

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 is Him. It’s all in Him, it’s all in Him, The Mighty God is Jesus and it’s all in Him.

2010 March 30 - Morning Manna

In your patience possess ye your souls (Luke 21:19).

Today’s Morsel:  If you were asked, "How long is your patience", what would you say? In this life of instantaneous gratification, it seems that very few people have patience to wait any more. Someone said that this is the instant popcorn generation. Anytime over 2 minutes to cook or be gotten is too long. People use the drive through windows because they don’t like to wait and if there is a line at the drive through they go some place else with a complaint of slow service. Almost everything you buy, as far as food, comes with microwave instructions to allow you to have it faster and quicker. Automatic timers are placed on appliances to allow you to set the food for the correct time to cook. Having to wait 30 minutes for a table at a restaurant is entirely too long for some folks to wait. Church services that last longer than an hour are too long for many these days. People just don’t seem to have the patience to wait. How did we get to this point in our lives? How did we allow the enemy of our soul to trick us into making us believe that we have to have everything faster? We’ve heard it said that good things come to those who wait, an off spin of Lamentations 3:25-26 which says, “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.” Jesus said in your patience possess ye your soul. In other words, if you want to make it to heaven, you need to learn how to have patience in your life. Notice I didn’t say pray for patience, I said learn patience. If you pray for patience, you will reap tribulations, as tribulations worketh patience. You must learn patience and that comes through believing and trusting in Jesus no matter what you are going through or what trial you face. You put your trust in Him and you believe that He will see you through. Paul said that it is through patience and comfort of the scripture that we find hope (Romans 15:4). So when you are in the wilderness or valley of the shadow of death, get a scripture and hold on.

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

2010 March 29 - Morning Manna

And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come (Matthew 24:4-14).

Today’s Morsel: There seems to be trouble on the horizon. It seems as though everything we read or hear is dealing with troubles. Jesus said in Matthew 24:12 that because iniquity (wicked injustice) shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. He goes on to say in Luke 21: 26 that man's heart would fail him for looking at the things that are coming upon the earth. When Thomas Paine cried out in Valley Forge, “These are the times that try men’s souls,” I think he might have been giving us a prophetic look at what we would be facing today. Trouble just seems to be standing in the wing waiting to attack. The Psalmist said “I am so troubled that I cannot speak” (Psalms 77:4). What could drive you to a point of so much trouble that you can’t speak? Beloved, if you ever get to this point in your life, always remember that Jesus is the antidote for the troubled mind. He tells us, “Let not your hearts be troubled you believe in God believe also in me” (John 14:1), and “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matthews 11:28-30). When life seems confused, Jesus still offers us hope through His Word. So read it and heed it, it is the only thing that will get you through these troubled times.

Sing: Jesus is here right now, reach out and touch him; Jesus is here right now, yours to receive; Jesus is standing near, ready your heart to cheer, Jesus is here right now, only believe.

2010 March 27 - Morning Manna

Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again (Luke 6:38).

Today’s Morsel: Why has giving to the church and the work of the Lord taken on such an evil meaning? Why do people not want to give to the churches anymore? I’m not talking about finances only, but also time and talents as well. Where have we gone wrong? One of the problems with giving to the church is most people give grudgingly versus giving willingly and freely. The children of Israel were to give their offerings freely and willingly. Now that we have been engrafted into the church, we must give of our time, talents, and treasures willingly and freely. Paul said that God loves a cheerful giver. Just because a minister dresses nice, lives in a nice home, or drives a nice vehicle, should not stop you from giving to the church. It was God that ordained that the minister live from the tithes given to the church. Paul said you should not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn. Jesus said give and it shall be given to you. We should give because we love God, not because of who is ministering. If he’s not right, God will deal with him. Let me encourage you, don’t stop giving to the work of the Lord. God sees your heart and will reward you for doing what you know is right to do. That $20-$50 you give to missions just may save a soul or help feed the hungry. Remember, you can’t put a price tag on a lost soul. It may someday be one of your own.

Sing: I dreamed I went to heaven and you were there with me, we walked upon the streets of gold beside the crystal sea; We heard the angels singing, then someone called your name, you turned and saw this young man and he was smiling as he came. And he said, "Friend you may not know me now" And then he said, "But wait" You used to teach my Sunday school when I was only eight. And every week you would say a prayer before the class would start, and one day when you said that prayer I asked Jesus into my heart."

(Chorus)
Thank you for giving to the Lord I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord I am so glad you gave.

2010 March 26 - Morning Manna

My hands also will I lift up unto thy commandments, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes (Psalm 119:48).

Today’s Morsel: The two huddled together, working line by line, bar by bar, composing the hymn, “Love Lifted Me.” The words were jotted down by James Rowe, and the music was hammered out at the piano by his friend, Howard E. Smith, whose hand were so twisted from arthritis that his friends wondered how he could play the piano at all. But there they were, James pacing back and forth while Howard banged away at the melody. When they finished, the world had the song, “Love Lifted Me.”

Often, we may think that it was our own power that lifted us from the situations and trials we went through, but if we were to look again, we would see that it was God that lifted us. The psalmist said, "My hands will I lift up unto thy commandements, which I have loved; and I will meditate in thy statutes." When we lift our hands in praise and adoration to Jesus, there is a freedom of submission of our will to His. When we lift our hands, it can be for many purposes, but none like praise to Him. With our hands lifted and our mouth filled with praise, it releases a sweet smell to our Saviour. I don't know about you, but with all my being I want to praise Him; and if that means lifting up my hands, that is what I will do, for He alone is worthy of my praise.

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

Chorus: Love lifted me! Love lifted me! When nothing else could help, Love lifted me; Love lifted me! Love lifted me! when nothing else could help--- Love, lifted, me.

2010 March 25 - Morning Manna

But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak (1 Corinthians 8:9)

Today’s Morsel: One of the responsibilities that every country has is that of protecting its citizens. But how do you feel when people begin to use that freedom for the wrong reason? How do you feel when you see people demonstrating against your government when you know, in your heart, that they only have your best and their best interest at heart? Jesus came to set the captives free, but many of the people He set free are misusing their freedom. They are using the freedom and liberty for the wrong reason. Many of them speak blaspheme against Him. They use His name in vain. They denounce the church, not realizing that the church's goal is to help them and their families continue to enjoy the freedom that Jesus came to give us all. When people do not understand the mission of the church, they denounce the church. Paul was using his freedom to arrest and persecute Christians until he met Jesus on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) and Jesus asked him, Saul, Saul why are you persecuting me? In other words, Paul, what have I done to you that you are doing this? Don’t you understand what I did by giving my life was for you, too. Until people really understand what it means to be free, they will never understand true freedom. You see, those who denounce the church don’t understand freedom. They haven’t talked to the man or woman that has been delivered from an addiction of drugs and alcohol, to hear their story after coming in contact with Jesus. They don’t know that man or woman who has been delivered from sexual or physical abuse. They haven’t talked to the person whose finances have been restored, or whose prodigal son or daughter has come home from a cesspool of sin. Paul said that we should not allow our liberty to become a stumbling block to them that are weak. Don’t use your liberty for the wrong reason, but use it for worshipping the King of kings and Lord of lords. Freedom isn't free!

Sing: Through You the blind will see. Through You the mute will sing. Through You the dead will rise. Through You all hearts will praise. Through You the darkness flees. Through You my heart screams, I am free!

I am free to run (I am free to run). I am free to dance (I am free to dance). I am free to live for you, (I am free to live for you). I am free (I am free), yes I am free.

2010 March 24 - Morning Manna

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:1-2).

Today’s Morsel: The Bible seems to call upon us to continue to renew our mind. How we think will determine our successes and failures in life. Vince Lombardi Jr., head coach of the Green Bay Packers, in his book, “What It Take To Be #1” said; and I quote; “Continuous renewal is an umbrella term for anything you can do to keep in touch with your values and your life purpose. This is a discipline that all successful people fashion for themselves. The will to win---the will to achieve---goes dry and arid without continuous renewal.”

The Apostle Paul said that we must be transformed by renewing of our minds. When we realize who we are in Christ, our thinking is renewed. Our minds should continuously be upon heaven and what Jesus has chosen for us to do while we are here upon the earth. Even when we are faced with difficult circumstances and situations, how we see them with our renewed spiritual mind will determine if we will come through them victorious or defeated. Joshua and Caleb saw the same thing the other ten spies saw in the Promised Land. The only difference was Joshua and Caleb saw what God had promised them instead of who was there and how big they were. Paul said, "If you be risen with Christ, then seek those things which are above." We must renew our minds and see every trial and circumstance as a stepping stone propelling us toward our goal.

Sing: Change my heart O’ God, make it ever true, change my heart O’ God, may I be like you!

23 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. Then shall the earth yield her increase; and God, even our own God, shall bless us (Psalms 67:5- 6).

Today’s Morsel: Are we holding God hostage? Could we be preventing God from doing all the great things He desires to do for us because we have overlooked in the scripture the word, “Then?” I have noticed that often times in scripture, God doesn’t respond or do anything until we exercise our faith in and towards Him. The Red Sea wasn’t parted until the children went forth. The Jordan River didn’t part until the priest put their feet in. The battle wasn’t won until Moses' arms were held up. Paul and Silas weren’t set free from prison until they prayed and sang psalms. Lazarus wasn’t raised from the dead until they removed the stone. Sometimes we quickly quote 2 chronicle 7:14, “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.” Have you noticed that there is a little word in there called, “Then”? God says, O’ I will forgive you of your sins and heal the land, but not until you humble yourself, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from your wicked ways. Notice what David says, “Let the people praise thee, O God; let all the people praise thee. “Then” shall the earth yield her increase, and God shall bless us. Do you need a blessing today? “Then” begin by praising God. What would you like for God to do on your behalf today? Just remember to do your part first and “Then” God will do His.

Sing: When the praises goes up, the blessings comes down; where sin use to dwell, his grace now abounds. There’s healing and hope, and love all around. When the praises goes up, the blessings come down.

22 March 2010 - Morning Manna

And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf. And when Moses saw that the people were naked; (for Aaron had made them naked unto their shame among their enemies:) Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD'S side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him (Exodus 32:21-26).

Today’s Morsel: How many of you are on the Lord's side today? When you are on the Lord's side, there are lines drawn in the sand that you will not cross over. When you are on the Lord's side, even though things may be lawful for you, you won’t cross over the line, because you’ve determine that they are not expedient for you. In other words, they do not reward you with a good outcome. Aaron had made the people naked. Aaron was the high priest. He was anointed of God to ensure that the people were doing the right thing and not going against the things that God had commanded. He was to ensure that only the clean things came into the camp for worship and he was not to allow the people to worship false idols. Like Aaron, I’m afraid that some ministers today are making the people naked. They are telling them that it doesn’t make any difference how they dress and look when they come to the house of God or even day to day as His children. A miniskirt, halter top, short pants, sleeveless tops, or sleeveless t-shirts should never be seen on a born again woman and man of God, as these things expose your nakedness before God and can cause others to stumble and fall. God told Moses when he came to the altar, “Neither shalt thou go up by steps unto mine altar, that thy nakedness be not discovered thereon”(Exodus 20:26). The only way that Adam and Eve knew they were naked was through disobedience. When we begin to worship the idols we make in our lives more than the One True God, we will soon become naked. So let me encourage you today, come over to the Lord's side. He is Holy and we are called to magnify Him.

Sing: Magnify Jesus, Magnify the Lord. Magnify Jesus, Magnify the Lord. Magnify Jesus, Magnify the Lord. Magnify Jesus, Magnify the Lord. For He is worthy, for He is worthy, for He is worthy, to be praised, to be praised.

Alaba a cristo, alaba al senor(4X) Porque el es digno(3X) De adoracion, adoracion.

20 March 2010 - Morning Manna

There was a man in the land of Uz, whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed evil. And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters. His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east. And his sons went and feasted in their houses, every one his day; and sent and called for their three sisters to eat and to drink with them. And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually (Job 1:1-5).

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever wondered why Job was able to endure when He went through what he went through in his life? The answer lies in the fact that Job had prepared himself while he was still in his right mind. You can’t wait until trials and circumstances hit you and then decide you want to serve God and stand strong in Him. You need to do it while you are in your right mind, as trials and circumstances will wear you out and prevent you from being able to think right and make intelligent decisions. Joseph didn’t wait until he was sold as a slave to Potiphar to decide he wouldn’t lay with Potiphar’s wife, he made that decision while he was still in his right mind. As he told her, “There is none greater in this house than I; neither hath he kept back anything from me but thee, because thou art his wife: how then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God” (Genesis 39:9)? You can’t wait until it seems as if there is no hope for you, you have to decide now that you are going to serve God and worship Him in every situation life may bring. If you don’t decide when you are in your right mind, as soon as you begin to have problems or trials come, your focus will be on your problems instead of Jesus who can give you strength to endure in any circumstance. When Job was hit with the first wave of the storm, he worshipped God because it was already in him to do so. So let me encourage you today, settle some things in your life today before you face trials or difficult circumstances. One of those things should be that nothing will be able to separate you from the love of God which is in Jesus Christ our Lord.

Sing: I’ve got my mind made up to serve the Lord! I’ve got my mind made up to service the Lord. I’ve got my mind made up, I’ve got my mind, I’ve got my mind made up to serve the Lord.

19 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, (Jude 1:24)

Today’s Morsel: Walking includes a procedure by which each step keeps you from falling. You cannot change your mind in the middle of a step. To do so would cause you to fall flat on your face or ata a minimum to stumble. Another thing is for certain, you cannot go backward and forward at the same time. The Bible warns us to walk circumspectly; walk honestly; walk in the Spirit; walk in love,; and walk openly before others. Peter tells us, “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your 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 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, (Those things listed above) ye shall never fall” (2 Peter 1:5- 10) If you will trust Jesus and allow Him to order your steps in His word, there is no way you can fall. Jude said, "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling." That’s right, Jesus is the only one that can keep you from falling, for His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our pathway. Always remember, we learn to walk by taking one step at a time, and you can only learn to run after you have learned to walk.

Sing: Walk with me Lord, walk with me; Walk with me Lord, walk with me; while I’m on this tedious journey, I want Jesus, to walk with me!

18 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us (1 John 4:15-19).

Today’s Morsel: Just how much do you know about the love of Jesus? Have you tasted of His love? John said that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son (John 3:16). 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). Friend if you really want to know what true love is, just look back to Calvary, for greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for His friend. So before you start to complain about what you don’t have or how bad your situation might be, think of God’s love for you. We love Him, because He first loved us.

Sing: If anybody knows about the love of Jesus, I do, I do! If anybody knows about the love of Jesus, I do! Yes I do!

If anybody knows about the grace of Jesus, I do, I do. If anybody knows about the loving grace of Jesus, I do! Yes I do!

If anybody knows about the power of Jesus, I do, I do! If anybody knows about the power of Jesus, I do! Yes I do!

17 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content (Philippians 4:11).

Today’s Morsel: What state are you in today? Are you in Wisconsin, New York, Taiwan, or Japan, just where are you today? Really, I’m not talking about a place of residence when I say state; I’m talking about the condition of your mind. One of the things we sometimes have trouble with in life is that when things aren’t going our way, we don’t know how to be content. The dictionary defines content as, “Satisfied with where a person is or what he has; not wanting more or anything else.” So no matter what my condition or situation is, I have to learn to be content. Jesus said, “Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth” (Luke 12:15). Therefore, we must realize that contentment is a state of the mind and we have to learn to be content with what we have and where we are and not try to keep up with the Joneses. If you are not content today, stir-up that gift that’s within you. Contentment comes by keeping your mind stayed on Him.

Sing: Why should I feel discouraged, and why should the shadows come, why should my heart feel lonely, and long for heaven and home. When Jesus is my portion, a constant friend is He, His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches over me.

I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free. His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches over me.

16 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest (Joshua 1:6-9).

Today’s Morsel: Courage does not always roar. Sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day, saying, “I will try again tomorrow.” Breaking bad habits can sometimes be difficult. The physical and mental pain that they cause can be grueling and hurtful. If you try to exercise more, quit smoking, quit drinking alcohol, eating healthier, or work less, it is never easy. Breaking a bad habit starts with courage, ends with discipline, and is fueled by desire. I read the following article recently, and would like to share it with you:

I am your constant companion. I am your greatest asset or heaviest burden. I will push you up to success or down to disappointment. I am at your command. Half the things you do might just as well be turned over to me, for I can do them quickly, correctly, and profitably. I am easily managed, just be firm with me. Those who are great, I have made great. Those who are failures, I have made failures. I am not a machine, though I work with the precision of a machine and the intelligence of a person. You can run me for profit, or you can run me for ruin. Show me how you want it done, educate me, train me, lead me, reward me, and I will then do it automatically. I am your servant. Who am I? I am a habit.

The author of this article is unknown, but the words are right on target. If you make good habits, they in turn will make you. But like weeds in a garden, bad habits can take over your life. We must develop habits that will keep us strong and of good courage and will discipline us to walk away from bad habits. Always remember, courage is a door that can only be opened from the inside by you.

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

15 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Rejoice in the Lord always 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).

Today’s Morsel: As born again believers, we should not fret or have anxiety about anything; but in every circumstance and in everything by prayer and petition with thanksgiving we should continue to make our wants and needs known to God. One of the things we have to learn as children of God is to be patient once we ask Him. We have no need to beg or continue to press Him to try and cause Him to hurry. He already knows what we need before we ask Him. Sometimes we ask God for things, but often we do not have the patience to wait upon Him to deliver. The Bible says, “Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit” (Ecclesiastes 7:8). Therefore, we should rejoice in the Lord while we are waiting on Him to come through. Excitement about our God and the things of God should cause us to rejoice no matter what is going on in our live, as we know He will deliver in His time. If we keep seeking Him, and taking our wants in prayer to Him, the peace that passeth all understanding will keep us. Scripture tells us that He will keep us in perfect peace, when our minds are stayed on Him, because we trust in Him (Isaiah 26:3).

Sing: He’s an on time God, yes He is. He’s an on time God, yes He is. He may not come when you want Him, but He’ll be there right on time; He’s an on time God, yes He is.

13 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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 (1 John 3:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: Many people seem to be struggling in their lives these days. But how many of us ever stop to see what God is doing through our struggles. The story is told of a man who once saw a butterfly struggling to get out of its cocoon. The man began to break off what he thought was part of the cocoon to free the butterfly, only to realize later that he had broken a part of the butterfly’s wing, and now the butterfly would not be able to fly. Thus, what the man thought was a help, actually became a hindrance. Sometimes when people are struggling, we may just need to leave them alone and let them struggle for a while, as we may not know what God is doing in molding the person into a beautiful butterfly who can fly. God is at work changing them from an ugly caterpillar crawling around on the ground to a beautiful butterfly who can fly. God wants all of His children to soar as eagles. And sometimes the process may place you in a struggle to perfect you. So let me encourage you today, if you know of someone who is struggling in their life, don’t try to help them out of it, as you may become a hindrance more than a help. We all have good intentions, but sometimes the best action is to do nothing. Simply be an encouragement to them and allow God to complete that He is doing in them. If they are truly born again, and they love the Lord and are called according to His purpose, they’ll be alright. John said, “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” (1 John 3:2).

Sing: Make me what I ought to be, Lord, make me to be more like thee. Bid me come up higher, till thy face I see; Lord make me to be more like thee.

12 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments. Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them (Psalms 119:164-165).

Today’s Morsel: Is there anyone out there today that needs a praise break? Praise breaks are needed when you’ve been offend. Praise breaks are needed when people have lied on you and have not been truthful. Praise breaks are needed when people show up late for church. Praise breaks are needed when the one you have loved walks out on you. Praise breaks are need when someone cuts in line in front of you. Praise breaks are needed when the guest's children break your favorite vase and they don’t offer to buy you a new one. Praise breaks are needed with the neighbor’s dog uses your yard for their bathroom and the owner doesn't offer to clean it up. The next time you start feeling offended, take a praise break so you don’t lose your salvation. Anytime you feel like people are doing you wrong; have lied on or to you; take a praise break. When you feel like those you thought you could rely on have left you standing alone; take a praise break! Don’t take a coffee, a rest break, or ask Calgon to take you away, but take a praise break. “For Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God” (Psalms 50:23).

Sing: I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in thee Lord, the humble shall here thereof and be glad. O’ magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together, I sought the Lord and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

11 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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 40:31).

Today’s Morsel: The word “wait” doesn’t mean to sit back and just do nothing, it means to entangle oneself in the Lord. When we wait on the Lord, we can look at it in two ways. We can see ourselves serving God, as the word “wait” is the root word for waiter and waitress; or we can see it as a pause or delay in action. Even though we may use it in either way, as children of God, we must serve, and through that service we will obtain strength to continue on. We must always be about our Father’s business in prayer, fasting, worshipping, witnessing, studying His word, attending church, and fellowshiping with like believers. To mount up as an eagle means to soar higher than your problems or situations. Eagles have been spotted by airline pilots during storms to be seen over 20,000 feet high in the air (that’s almost 4 miles high). Eagle’s don’t allow the storms of life to deter them, but they use the violent wind from the storm to propel them higher than the storm. So if you feel as though there is a storm brewing in your life, don’t allow it to toss or destroy you, but use it to propel you higher in the Lord. For in the times of trouble He will hide you in His pavilion, in the secret of His tabernacle shall He hide you and He shall set you upon a rock and your head shall be lifted up above your enemies round about you. My brothers and sisters, I encourage you as the Apostle Paul encouraged those who were with him on the ship in Acts chapter 27, “Be of good cheer.”

Sing: I want to scale the utmost height and catch a gleam of glory bright; but still I’ll pray till heaven I’ve found, “Lord, lead me on to higher ground.”

Lord, lift me up and let me stand, by faith on heaven’s table land; a higher plane than I have found, Lord, plant my feet on higher ground.

10 March 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 responsibility 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 hills, the earth is His and the fullness thereof. God doesn’t run out of things. He has unlimited resources. His compassion and mercy is renewed every morning, Jeremiah said (Lamentation 3:22-24). The Lord told King David that if what I had given you was not enough, all you had to do was ask. When we trust God, we can move beyond our understanding and comprehension to a dimension of belief where we are willing to lie down and just relax, because we know that He’s watching over us. When we reach the place in our lives that everything we own belongs to God, then we will realize that everything that God owns belong to us, because we are a part of His family. The problem with us humans often times 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 will you understand His will.

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

I trust in God, I know He cares for me, On the mountain bleak or on the stormy sea;Tho' billows roll, He keeps my soul, My heavenly Father watches over me.

9 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD: This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter. I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it (Psalms 118:19-24).

Today’s Morsel: When a mason is laying brick or stone, often times they will come across a brick or stone that is chipped or broken or that may have a defect, and they cannot use it at that time in the wall or construction they are building. But after a while, they may get to a place where they may need a certain piece of a brick or stone, and so they look for the piece that they have discarded. And once they find it, they rejoice that it fits in the place just the way that they need it to. The psalmist said that the stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. Many people reject Jesus at the onset in their goals and plans for life. They begin by trying to build their lives without Him, but after a certain period of time, when things aren’t going well or right, they begin to look for Him to fill that gap. The psalmist said that this is the Lord's doing. God will allow you to reject Him if you so choose. But He’s also excited when you realize that you can do nothing without Him (John 15:5), and that you need Him in your life. Solomon said, “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it” (Psalms 127:1). Let me encourage you today, if you are going to build, why not start by making Jesus the chief corner stone so that your foundation will be solid, steadfast, and firm. Anything that will be shaken will be shaken, and if your foundation isn’t solid, your building will crumble.

Sing: My hope is built on nothing less, than Jesus’ blood and righteousness. I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly trust in Jesus’ Name.

8 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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

Today’s Morsel: Power projection (or force projection) is a term used in military and political science to refer to the capacity of a state to conduct expeditionary warfare, i.e. to intimidate other nations and implement policy by means of force, or the threat thereof, in an area distant from its own territory. The church is a force to be reckoned with. Any church that is able to direct its forces outside the limited bounds of its territory might be said to have some level of power projection capability, but the term itself is used most frequently in reference to militaries with a worldwide reach (or at least significantly broader than one's own immediate area). Jesus said, “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); “And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:18-20). The church must always be looked at as a military force to be reckoned with, because we are in a spiritual warfare. Every member in the church has to be involved if that church is going to be seen as a power projecting force. Churches who do not support missions, by either supporting other missionaries monetarily or sending forth missionaries from its rank, are not a power projecting church, because it is unable to reach beyond its own boundaries. The enemy isn’t afraid of these churches, because they are exposing their weakness. We are the church. Jesus said, “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8). Are you in full support of the great commission? Does Satan see you as a force to be reckoned with? I say that it’s time that we project our power against his forces and set the captives free.

Sing: I’m going to the enemy’s camp, I’m gonna, take back what he stole from me. I’m going to the enemy’s camp, I’m gonna, take back what he stole from me. He’s under my feet, under my feet, under my feet, he’s under my feet, Satan is under my feet.

6 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:10-12).

Today’s Morsel: Tensile Strength is an item's ability to endure pressure before it breaks. If you were to look at the small cords on a parachute, you would probably say that there is no way those small cords couldn hold a 250-300 pound person in the air. But we all know that it does. The reason is it has been tested and proven to withhold a certain amount of weight and pressure. Therefore, it has been given a rating of how many pounds per square inch of pressure and weight it can withstand. Some of the ways you can test your tensile strength is to observe how much pressures of life, trials, and circumstances you can endure before you break. Solomon said, “If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small” (Proverbs 24:10). If you give up under hardships, difficulties, danger, misfortunes, hard times, or under harsh conditions, you are not able to withstand much because your strength is small. You need allow God to stretch you a little bit more to increase your strength. He sees that you are able to endure. And, then you yourself will be able to see just how steadfast and rooted you really are. The difference between a tree being able to withstand the storm and the tree that doesn't is the depth of the roots. If the roots are shallow, then most likely the tree will be uprooted when the storm comes. Peter said, “We are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time (1 Peter 1:5). Notice, we are kept by the power of God. It’s faith that keeps us strong. He goes on to say that it is the testing of our faith that is more precious than gold tried in the fire, that it may be still intact when Jesus returns. “Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls”(1 Peter 1:6-9). Paul said that we must be strong in the Lord so that we can withstand in the evil day. Let me encourage you today, get yourself rooted and ground in the Word and things of God, so that you may be able to endure in these last days.

Sing: 1.Glory hallelujah, I shall not be moved, I’m anchored in Jehovah, and I shall not be moved, just like a tree planted by the water, I shall not be moved.

2. Though all hell assails me, I shall not be moved, because Jesus will not fail me, and I shall not be moved, just like a tree planted by the water, I shall not be moved.

3. Though the tempest rages, I shall not be moved, I am on the rock of ages and I shall not be moved, just like a tree planted by the waters, I shall not be moved.

5 March 2010 - Morning Manna

My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth (Psalms 57:7-11).

Today’s Morsel: The Psalmist said that his heart is fixed. That means that he is firm, steadfast, unmovable, and solid as a rock in God, doctrine, understanding, and faith. When your mind is fixed, you aren’t easily shaken. When our hearts are stayed on Jesus, we remain unshakable when trials, tests, and unexpected circumstances come. When our roots go deep in Jesus, Jeremiah said, “We 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 17:8). When your heart is fixed, things aren’t going to faze you because your trust and hope is always in the Lord. The psalmist also says, “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). I know that you have your heart fixed today, so sing with all your heart to the Lord, because nothing shall be able to separate you from His Love.

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.

4 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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 (Jeremiah 2:10-11).

Today’s Morsel: May I ask you a question today, how’s your glory? How’s your splendor and illustrious beauty? The Lord said, "My people have changed their glory." Is He speaking of you today? Why would a person want to change what God has given them? We are created in His image and not the image of this world. I’ve noticed that we humans are the only one of God's creation that tries to change how God has made them. The animal kingdom has allowed how the Lord made them to continue as they were. The Lord asked Jeremiah, “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil” (Jeremiah 13:23). The Bible says “And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house that he had built, And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her” (1 Kings 10:4-5). Notice that she fainted after what she saw. Do the people of this world who do not yet know Jesus take notice of you when you walk by or do they see you as just one of them? The Temple of God was beautiful. Paul said that we are the temple of the Holy Ghost. Our beauty is accomplished not by adding worldly things to us, but the things that God gives us, His Spirit. Our beauty begins with an internal change of heart and by allowing the fruit of the Spirit to manifest itself within us and work its way to our outward actions and appearance. Paul says that a woman''s long hair is her glory (1 Corinthians 11:15), and that if a woman cuts off her hair what did it profit her; it is a loss of her glory. Are you trying to change how God has made you? Let me encourage you, if you are going to change, change your heart and not your glory!

Sing: Change my heart Oh God, make it ever true, change my heart Oh God, may I be like you.

3 March 2010 - Morning Manna

Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal
(1 Corinthians 13:1).

Today’s Morsel: The driving force behind every person should be that of love. Love for God first and foremost, and then love for his neighbor. If someone were to ask you to define love other than it being God, just how would you describe it? When John wrote that God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son (John 3:16), he was calling our attention to how God operates. God always operates in love, even if it’s through chastisement. The writer of Hebrews informs of this when he said, “And ye 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”(Hebrews 12:5-6). We may sometimes see God’s love as harsh, but it all works together for our good if we love God and are called according to His purpose. In writing to the church at Corinth, Paul wanted them to know that even though they had the Spirit of God and spoke in tongues, it did them no good unless they had love along with it. You see, speaking in another tongue as the Spirit gives you the utterance (speaking in another language other than your own native tongue) is a sign that you have been filled with God’s Spirit (Acts 2:1-4; Acts 10:44-48; Acts 19:1-6). And the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, etc. So Paul wanted this church to know that with the fruit and the gifts of God’s Spirit, it served them no purpose as far as being spiritual or having spirituality without the love of God being the driving force behind it. Some people have tried to denounce speaking in tongues in the church because they fail to have an understanding of what Paul is speaking to. Paul said, “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all” (1 Corinthians 14:18). He also said, “Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serveth not for them that believe not, but for them which believe” (1 Corinthians 14:22). No matter what fruit or gift of the Spirit you may possess, if you do not have the love of God operating in your life it profits you nothing.

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

2 March 2010 - Morning Manna

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. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another (Galatians 5:22-26).

Today’s Morsel: The three bears returned to their house and noticed that someone had been eating their porridge. Mama bear must have been a very good cook for Goldilocks to eat all of Baby Bear's porridge. What are people eating from you? Is your tree full of spiritual fruit, or have you allowed temptations to dry up your roots so that you aren’t producing any fruit? Have you allowed the cares, riches, and pleasures of this world to choke the Word from you? Paul says that there is no law against the fruit of the Spirit. But the fruit of the flesh has a law against it. And that law is that they that are in the flesh cannot please God (Romans 8:8). How well do you understand the fruit of the Spirit? Do you know what Love is? Love is time. Time with God and time with those you care the most about. Do you know what Joy is? It’s self-esteem. It’s keeping yourself motivated. Do you know what Peace is? Peace is when all hell breaks loose in your life and anything that can go wrong has and is going wrong, but yet you can still see God working on your behalf and for your good and you can say as Job, “But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold” (Job 23:10). Do you know what Meekness is? It’s unselfishness. It’s placing others and the mission ahead of yourself. It’s keeping yourself humble and in check, when you really just want to reach out and touch somebody. Do you know what Long-suffering is? It’s maintaining your patience when someone rains on your parade. Do you know what Faith is? Faith is that shove you receive to push you onward to your hope. Do you know what Goodness is? Goodness is possessing an abundance of good things within yourself that you can share with others. It’s that fruit that’s driven by being kind one toward another, tenderheartedness, and forgiving others. Do you know what Gentleness is? Gentleness is being able to rub over one's sores, bruises, and hurts, and not cause the other person to feel you’re rubbing them. Do you know what Temperance is? Temperance is maintaining your self-control when there’s a sale on and everyone is rushing and pushing trying to get through the door all at the same time.

When we look at the fruit of the Spirit, it’s Christ operating in your life affecting others. How's your spiritual tree today?

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.