2010 October 30 - Morning Manna

 Then Job answered and said, Even to day is my complaint bitter: my stroke is heavier than my groaning. Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat! I would order my cause before him, and fill my mouth with arguments. I would know the words which he would answer me, and understand what he would say unto me. Will he plead against me with his great power? No; but he would put strength in me. There the righteous might dispute with him; so should I be delivered for ever from my judge. Behold, I go forward, but he is not there; and backward, but I cannot perceive him: On the left hand, where he doth work, but I cannot behold him: he hideth himself on the right hand, that I cannot see him: But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold (Job 23:1-10).

Today's Morsel: I have heard many people questioning their faith, because they can't seem to find God or they keep falling.  Well, I don't know of too many babies that walk without first falling.  A baby has to get his bones and muscles strong to be able to stand.  When you start out on this walk, you are a baby, and you have to have your spiritual bones and muscles developed before you can stand and walk on your own.  Like a baby, you need help at the start.  That's why God gives you a pastor.   Many people want to hear that audible voice from God, or see Jesus' face before they will believe.  But that's not faith.  It may increase your faith, but faith isn't predicated on seeing, but it is based on trust and believing the unseen.  As Jesus told Thomas,  "Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (John 20:29).  When Job  was suffering, he wanted to find God so he could ask the reason of his suffering.  He said, I'm looking for him, but I can't find him. But one thing was certain, Job knew that God knew the way that he took and where he was, and when he appeared before God, he would come forth as gold, pure.  What about us when we stand before him?  Will we be pure as gold?  Will our lives reflect that we've held true to our faith and trust in God?  Will we still be set apart as vessels fit for the Master's use?  Let me encourage you, keep walking the walk and maintaining a steady pace.  Remember, mustard seed faith is little faith that grows to big faith.  Friend, don't question your faith because others may seem to be more spiritual than you.  Jesus is the one who determines our faith, not man.

Sing:  Faith, faith, faith, just a little bit of faith.  Faith, faith, faith, just a little bit of faith.  You don't need a whole lot, just use what you've got. Faith, faith, faith, just a little bit of faith!

2010 October 29 - Morning Manna

Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock for ever! For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: And though after my skin worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God: Whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes shall behold, and not another; though my reins be consumed within me (Job 19:23-27).

Today's Morsel:  There seem to be many books written, and that are still more being written.  The book of Job is a book that I believe that everyone should read.  Job shows how Christians should respond when things that are not good or expected come into their lives.  It is a reflection of how we should remain focused when we are unfairly accused.  It shows how we should react when the things we've heard that have happened to others, are now happening to us.  It even shows us how to live through pain and suffering.  When Job said, "Oh that my words were now written! oh that they were printed in a book! That they were graven with an iron pen and lead in the rock forever," someone heard him, and they did.  And the words that came from him have been an inspiration for so many.  When the apostle James wanted to get his point across about faith to the church, he said, "Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy" (James 5:11).  Somewhere, James read and heard how Job was patient and waited on the Lord.  There are many books that can bring enlightenment to your situation, but none of them will get you through it like the Bible will.  Paul said, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope" (Romans 15:4).  I believe that Paul used Job as an example during his time of suffering and afflictions.  As the Psalmist said, "This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me" (Psalms 119:50).  Thank God for His Word, the Bible.  It is the number one best seller year after year.  Do you have a copy?  Heaven and earth will pass away, but My Words will not pass away, Jesus said.

Sing:  In the book it's written "Saved by Grace", O the joy that came to my soul! Now I am forgiven, and I know, by the blood I am made whole.

Chorus: There's a new name written down in glory, and it's mine, O yes, it's mine! And the white robed angels sing the story, "A sinner has come home."  For there's a new name written down in glory, and it's mine, O yes, it's mine! With my sins forgiven I am bound for heaven, never more to roam.

2010 October 28 - Morning Manna

Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! (Isaiah 30:1-2)

Today's Morsel:  We've started to receive mail order catalogs and  other periodicals in our mailbox for the purchase of cold weather clothing.  Stores know that after autumn comes winter, and that people will want to cover themselves from the cold winds and snow.  The Lord knows we need a spiritual covering.  He says, "Woe to the children that take counsel from others but not of Him, and that cover with a covering, but not His Spirit, that they may add sin to sin."  Without the Holy Ghost covering you, you will continue to add sin to sin. Therefore, the only thing that can keep you from sinning is the Holy Ghost, The Spirit of God.  The apostle John says,  "And ye know that he(Jesus) was manifested to take away our sins; and in him(Jesus) is no sin. Whosoever abideth in him(Jesus) sinneth not: whosoever sinneth hath not seen him, neither known him. Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God" (1 John 3:5-9).  Are you born of God?  Then your covering is His Spirit, and we are not called to add sin to our lives.  As Peter tells us, "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, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 1:5-11).  If you are having problems with continual sinning, this I say then, walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh!

 Sing:  It's all over me and it's keeping me alive. Keeping me alive, it's keeping me alive.  It's all over me and it's keeping me alive, this Holy Ghost is keeping me alive.

2010 October 27 - Morning Manna

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. But if I live in the flesh, this is the fruit of my labour: yet what I shall choose I wot not. For I am in a strait betwixt two, having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better: Nevertheless to abide in the flesh is more needful for you. And having this confidence, I know that I shall abide and continue with you all for your furtherance and joy of faith; That your rejoicing may be more abundant in Jesus Christ for me by my coming to you again. (Philippians 1:21-26)

Today's Morsel:  If someone were to ask you what the most difficult decision you've had to make in your life was, what would it be?  Some decisions are easy, while others may be tough to make.  Sometime swe may even have to ask others for their opinion about our decisions, to ensure that we do not make the wrong decision.  Even though the final decision is up to us, there is always that calm assurance when we know that what we are thinking is right for us, and that others agree.  Paul had a big decision to make here. He says, I am in a strait between two.  He said, I want to go and be with the Lord, which is better for me, but for you, it is better that I remain here for your furtherance of joy and faith. Talk about a self-less servant.  Placing the needs of others above your own.  Not everyone will do that.  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).  But when you understand who you are in Christ, and what He has called you to do, you then understand that the more you can carry with you to heaven, the better it is.  It is much better than going alone. What decision are you faced with today? Have you looked into God's Word for His help?  Joel said, "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the LORD is near in the valley of decision" (Joel 3:14).

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

2010 October 26 - Morning Manna

Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. (Ephesians 5:1-4)

Today's Morsel:  I like walking into our house when my wife is baking. There is nothing like smelling that sweet aroma of  good food as it hits your nose.  Cookies, pies, and cakes just seem to permeate into the air and cause me to want to taste what is being cooked.  Paul said that we are to be followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor.  Paul said that Jesus' offering was as a sweet smelling odor or fragrance to God.  Therefore, he calls for your life to be as such.  Everything that we do should permeate a sweet smell unto the Lord.  But he also tells us, "But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks."  There are things, if we are not careful, that will send forth a foul smell from us onto God and cause our sacrifice (praise) to be rejected.  And none of us should desire this to happen.  As Solomon said, dead flies in the apothecary cause the ointment to send forth a stench!

Sing: I love you Lord, and I lift my voice, to worship you, O' my soul, rejoice. Take joy my King, in what you hear; let it be a sweet, sweet, sound in your ear.

We exalt Thee! We exalt Thee! We exalt Thee, Oh Lord! We exalt Thee! We exalt Thee! We exalt Thee, Oh Lord.

2010 October 25 - Morning Manna

O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:55-58).

Today's Morsel: Have you ever been stung by a wasp or a bee?  Those stingers  are painful when they are injected into you.  My parents use to tell us to stay away from them, leave them along, and they want bother or sting you.  If you notice, they cause swelling and redness, and they may even cause you to have a reaction that can kill you.  Paul says that death has a sting, and it's call sin.  James says that this sting is also inside of lust.  Lust is like a bee or wasp, and it, too, carries the sting of sin.  And once lust attaches itself to you, it will inject its sting into you as well.  Sin is like an insect sting.  Once it is injected into you, it can cause you to swell up with pride, envy, jealousy, deceit, sedition, hatred, lust, evil, and emulation. It can cause redness of eyes from drugs, alcohol, and watching things that can destroy your eyesight and good judgment.  And the end result of sin is always death (Roman 6:23).  Therefore, the key to survival from the sting of death is to get the stinger out as quickly as possible.  "Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:37-38).  Stay away from sin, and it won't sting you!

Sing: I wanna be washed in the blood of the Lamb. I need a cleansing from the fountain.  My soul is hungry, I've got this aching within. I wanna be washed, in the blood of the Lamb.

2010 October 23 - Morning Manna

But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me?
(2 Corinthians 2:1-2)

Today's Morsel: Paul said that he had determined some things in his life. He said that he was determined not to make the church burdened or sad, because he would have to be the same one that would be required to make them glad. He said to them that he had determined to know nothing among them but Jesus Christ and Him crucified. Job said that he had made a covenant with his eyes that he would not look upon a maid (Job 31:1). The Psalmist said, "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes (Psalms 110:3). These men determined things in their lives. There must come a time in all of our lives that we determine things that we will or will not do. If we say that we are born again, then we must determine that we will not do anything contrary to the Word of God or His commandments. We must decide that we will serve no other God but Jesus Christ. We must settle on truth and not on error. We must establish within ourselves that we will not let go of truth, and we must resolve within ourselves that we are going to make heaven at all cost. And finally, we must also determine to keep others edified and exalted in Christ so that they, too, can become overcomers and make it to heaven as well.

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

2010 October 22 - Morning Manna

And after these things he went forth, and saw a publican, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom: and he said unto him, Follow me. And he left all, rose up, and followed him. (Luke 5:27-28)

Today's Morsel:  What was it about Jesus disciples that when He called men to follow Him, they did?  What was it that caused them to just stopped what they were doing and follow Him?  How is that some people can speak and others will follow them and others will not?  I wonder if the disciples were tired of what they were doing and felt that maybe Jesus was getting ready to open a new business, and they would be better off than what they were?  Were they radical in mind and were thinking that Jesus was getting a group together to go against the Romans, and they would have a position in His government?  We can speculate and view this in many ways, but the real question is, are you willing to leave all to follow Him?  Is this what Jesus meant when He said, "Many are called but few are chosen?"  Is it few because many aren't willing, as the disciples, to leave all and follow Jesus?   Jesus holds some very high standards for His followers, and especially those in leadership.  You see, His followers have to be committed to the mission of preaching the gospel.  It's not a part-time mission, or part-time commitment, but it's an all or nothing.  It's a mission of self-less service, duty, loyalty, and commitment.  It's being ready to give the ultimate sacrifice if asked.  When James and John wanted the positions of honor, Jesus asked them are you able to drink the cup that I drink and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with?  And they said, we be able.  Many people are being baptized and filled with the Holy Ghost, but few are willing to drink that cup.  The cup was rejection, loneliness, bitterness, persecution, and even death.  If Jesus calls you, and you accept, can you drink the cup?  The Name of the 12 apostles are on the twelve foundations of the city, of the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:14), because they followed when He called them.  Where will your name appear?

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

I'll be somewhere listening, I'll be somewhere listening, I'll be somewhere... listening for my name.  I'll be somewhere listening, I'll be somewhere listening, I'll be somewhere listening for my name.

2010 October 21 - Morning Manna

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:51-58).

Today's Morsel: What do think it will be like when that final trumpet sounds? Are you anticipating that day? After much reading of the New Testament, I find in it pages the continual exaltation by the writers to get ready for that day of Jesus return. The Bible says in Acts 20:7, "And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them, ready to depart on the morrow; and continued his speech until midnight." Was this his message title? I think so. Be Ready To Go; and he preached until midnight. A pretty lengthy sermon. But he wanted to get the message across.

Jesus said that no man knows the minute nor the hour of His return. Therefore, we should always be ready. Peter cautioned us, that in the lasts days, many would come saying that everything is continuing just like it always has been and they will deceive many (2Peter 3,my wording). But Paul is a little more forceful and says, "Behold, I shew you a mystery; we are going to be changed." We aren't going to stay in the flesh forever. This body has got to be changed, it has to put on immortality. Are you ready should Jesus sound the trumpet today? Don't wait until the last minute and think that you have time. Paul said that it is going to happen in a moment, in the twinkling of eye. That's pretty fast. There isn't going to be time for death-bed repentance, or asking for forgiveness. Those who are ready will be out of here. Heaven is getting ready now for that final call. So be proactive and not reactive.

Sing: If we never meet again, on this earth, my precious friend; But if to God, you have been true, and you've lived above all sin, then for us, there'll be a meeting, with hallelujah greetings, I'll see you in the rapture some sweet day.

Hallelujah! I'll see you in the rapture. I'll see you in the rapture. I'll see you in the meeting in the air.

2010 October 20 - Morning Manna

Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. (2 Corinthians 5:6-9)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever had anyone say to you, "Let's go sightseeing?" I've thought about that saying many times, and thought to myself, shouldn't it be "Site seeing?" If I'm seeing, don't I already have sight? If I want to see buildings and things, aren't they called "Sites"? Okay, I'm not an English major, but a Sergeant Major. Are you walking by faith with Jesus, trusting completely in His Word with assurance that He will guide you over the land and weary ways? Are you trusting without having any cause of fear and dread for what may lie ahead? Are you finding great joy along your way, as you are walking with Jesus every day, knowing that while you walk with Him you will never roam and that He will never leave you alone? Are you truly walking by faith and not by sight, and trusting Him with great delight? If you can see where you are going, it isn't a faith walk, it's a sight walk.

Are you daily trusting in His grace each hour? Let me encourage you today, push your faith button a little bit more, and give Jesus first shot to take care of anything that seems wrong in your life. Try Jesus before you take matters into your own hands. See what He will do for you.

Sing: Walking by faith with Jesus the Lord on my way home. Walking by faith with Jesus the Lord, striving each day, to gain the reward, till I reach home, no more will I roam, because I am walking by faith with Jesus the Lord on my way home.

2010 October 19 - Morning Manna

"Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the LORD your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: That thou mightest fear the LORD thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son's son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the LORD God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage" (Deuteronomy 6:1-12).

Today's Morsel: Do you remember the childhood stories that your parents told you about Jesus? What about those Sunday school stories of how the children of Israel crossed the Red Sea and Moses parting the water. What about David killing Goliath, the bear, and the lion? What about Daniel in the lion's den? Jesus turning the water into wine? Opening the blinded eyes, causing the lame to walk, and raising Lazarus from the dead? What about the story of the Resurrection at Easter, and the feeding of the multitude with 5 loaves and 2 fish? Those stories are just as fresh today as they were when we were young. God's Word is always the same. Moses told the children of Israel that they were to never forget who God was and what He had done for them. They were to teach it to their children and to talk about it always. Are you still sharing those Bible stories with your children? You are never too old to impart wisdom and knowledge to them, and they are never too young nor too old to hear it. Don't leave it up to the church to tell them the stories of Jesus. It will mean a whole lot more in their lives as they grow older when they know that you, mom and dad, told it to them.

Sing: I heard an old, old story, how a Savior came from glory, how He gave His life on Calvary to save a wretch like me; I heard about His groaning, of His precious blood's atoning, then I repented of my sins, and wonder the victory.

Chorus: O' victory in Jesus, My Savior forever, He sought me and brought me with His redeeming blood; He loved me ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him, He plunged me to victory, beneath the cleansing flood.

2010 October 18 - Morning Manna

Jesus went unto the mount of Olives. And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst, They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou? This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not. So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her. And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more. (John 8:1-11)

Today's Morsel: What words do you think Jesus wrote on the ground? Here we see a woman caught in adultery, and under the law of Moses, she was to be stoned. But when the men asked Jesus what they should do, He just stooped down and wrote on the ground. Be confident of this, Jesus was not giving His permission for anyone to committ adultery by not answering them. Jesus knew their cunning and sly methods of trying to trick Him. He knew they knew the law by what they said to Him. And so He said unto them, "You without sin cast the first stone." The law stated, "Thou shall not bear false witness against thy neighbor." And many of these men may not have even seen her in the act of adultery, but only what they heard others say. How many times have you agreed based on what someone says, instead of gathering the facts for yourself before you make a judgment call? Jesus said, "For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them" (Luke 9:56). When all the men were gone, Jesus was left alone and the woman standing in the midst. When Jesus looked up and saw none but the woman, he said to her, "Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more." Jesus also said, "For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved"(John 3:17). Do you need forgiveness today? Then why not come to Jesus and allow Him to forgive you of your sins.

Sing: God is so good, God is so good! God is so good; He's so good to me. God cares for me, God cares for me, God cares for me; He's so good to me.

2010 October 16 - Morning Manna

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. (Acts 9:1-6)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the Army and I would see soldier just sitting around doing nothing, I would ask them, "Why aren't you working?" They would sometimes say, "No one has told us what to do?" And I would say, "Who did you ask?" And then I would get that deer in the headlight stare because most times they hadn't asked anyone. You know, many folks are like that in the church. They never ask anyone what there is that they can do to enhance the kingdom of God. Have you stopped to ask God what He wants you to do for His Kingdom? I believe that many saints become frustrated because they don't know what God wants them to do. And they aren't too eager to ask Him, for fear of what He might say! I have found that most people are more happier when they know what they are suppose to be doing and doing it, than just sitting around doing nothing or doing something that they don't like doing. Jesus wants you to be happy laboring in His vineyard. Therefore, you need to find out what He wants you to do and where He wants you to be. You may be an unhappy Sunday school teacher because that's not where the Lord wants you. He might want you to be an usher or greeter because of your great personality. Because of your attention to details and great work ethics, He may want you to be the church janitor. He may want you to be a teacher instead of a pastor, because you have the ability to research and apply stories with understanding and clarity. Or He may want you to be the Sunday school superintendent, instead of a ladies or men's leader, because of your love for children and teaching. But you'll never know if you don't ask Him. And you will continue to be an unhappy, frustrated saint of God in your labor. The apostle Paul wasn't about to be unhappy in his calling, and so he said, "Lord what will you have me to do?" And we see the love and passion that he had for the work of the Lord. Jesus said, "You have not because you ask not."

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

2010 October 15 - Morning Manna

And the sons of the prophets said unto Elisha, Behold now, the place where we dwell with thee is too strait for us. Let us go, we pray thee, unto Jordan, and take thence every man a beam, and let us make us a place there, where we may dwell. And he answered, Go ye. And one said, Be content, I pray thee, and go with thy servants. And he answered, I will go. So he went with them. And when they came to Jordan, they cut down wood. But as one was felling a beam, the axe head fell into the water: and he cried, and said, Alas, master! for it was borrowed. And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. Therefore said he, Take it up to thee. And he put out his hand, and took it (2 Kings 6:1-7).

Today's Morsel: I think probably one of the hardest things to do when you've borrowed something from someone else and you lose it is to go back and tell them you've lost it. I think one of the reasons it's hard is that we think that the person may not believe us. But on the other hand, if we go and say, "I lost the item that you let me borrow and I am willing to replace it or to pay you for it," then our apprehension is lessened. The man in today's passage was concerned because the axe was borrowed and he knew the value of an axe, as they were not easy to come by. And so he cried to the man of God for his help in getting it back. Apparently this man was a man of faith, as he knew who to turn to in his dilemma. Elisha asked him where did it fall? And he showed him the place. Jesus told the church of Ephesus in the book of Revelation, "Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent"(Revelation 2:4-5). Have you lost any of the things that Jesus has let you borrow? Since everything that we have belongs to Him, do you still have it in your possession? As Jesus prayed in the garden, He said, "While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled"(John 17:12). Do you still have the peace and joy that He gave to you? Let me encourage you today, hold fast to the things that He's entrusted you with. You will someday have to give an account.

Sing: I've still got my joy. I've still got my joy. After all things I've been through, I've still got my joy. I've still got my joy. I've still got my joy. After all things I've been through, I've still got my joy.

2010 October 14 - Morning Manna

Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ by the will of God, and Timothy our brother, unto the church of God which is at Corinth, with all the saints which are in all Achaia: Grace be to you and peace from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God (2 Corinthians 1:1-4).

Today's Morsel: I'm sure that most of you have heard the term "Train the Trainer." It is a term that is used when one leader (instructor) trains other leaders (instructors), teaching them how to train others. As Paul told Timothy, "And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also" (2 Timothy 2:2). Who have you provided comfort to today? What about yesterday? Paul said that Jesus comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort others which are in trouble, by the comfort that we were comforted with from God. Jesus said, "Freely you have received, freely give." When God gives and does things for us, we are to use the same methods to comfort and aid others. How much money has God given to you to support missions, so that others can be comforted through the gospel? Did you use it for that purpose? God does so many wonderful things for us, but if we hoard up everything we receive and never use any of it to aid others, who will comfort us when we need help in our tribulations and trouble? Remember, we are called to edify and not tear down. If you see someone today that look as though they need a little help, you be the one that do it, and fulfill the love of Christ. You never know when the shoe might be on the other foot!

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.

2010 October 13 - Morning Manna

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. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Hebrews 12:1-3)

Today's Morsel: Airlines have become stricter for overweight bags. They now charge you extra for any bag weighing over 50 pounds. It seems as though they are trying to get us to travel light. When traveling within Asia, most Asian airlines will only allow you to carry 20 kilos (44 pounds). Travel light or pay the fine. The writer of Hebrews says that we need to lay aside every weight and the sin which doth so easily beset us. Just what weights are you carrying around? What cares are you holding on to? What weight can't you shake? Peter tells us to cast all our care upon Jesus for he careth for us (1 Peter 5:7). I think it's time that every believer unload anything they are carrying that isn't like Christ. If you've been hurt, lay it aside. If you been lied on, lay it aside. If you've made a bad decision, lay it aside. If you've just gone through an ugly divorce, lay it aside. Whatever weight is impeding your progress in Christ, lay it aside, as you can't bring it into heaven with you anyhow. As Paul said, you brought nothing into this world and you for certain can't carry it out. So lay it aside. You can't run the race carrying them.

Sing: 1. I'm trading my sorrow. I'm trading my shame. I'm laying it down for the joy of the Lord. I'm trading my sickness. I'm trading my pain. I'm laying it down for the joy of the Lord. (Chorus)

2. I'm pressed but not crushed, persecuted not abandoned, struck down but not destroyed. I'm blessed beyond the curse for his promise will endure, and his joy's gonna be my strength. Though the sorrow may last for the night, His joy comes with the morning. (Chorus)

Chorus: And we say yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes Lord. Yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes Lord. Yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes Lord, Amen!

2010 October 12 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel: Today, almost all automobiles need gasoline to run. The manufacturer made it to run off of a certain type of fuel. The gas that is used must be clean and of a certain octane if the automobile is to run without problems. The Lord formed man from the dust of the earth. But all living creatures have blood within them and none of them can live without the blood. If the blood becomes unclean or defiled, orif there is a large loss of blood, it can cause serious aliment or death. Under the law, the blood was instituted by God for purification. The blood was used for the remission of one's sins. It brought about cleansing and forgiveness. It was the blood that the high priest took when he went into the Holy of Holies before the Mercy Seat of God once a year to present an atonement for the sins of the people. The writer said that almost all things were purged by blood. Somethings were purged by water and fire, but when it came to the forgiveness of sins, God said only blood would be used. Therefore, any person who desires for their sins to be remitted will have to be baptized in Jesus name, as that is when the blood of Jesus is applied to one's life. As Peter said on the Day of Pentecost "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost" (Acts 2:38). Jesus shed His blood on Calvary for all. And today that is the only blood that can be used for the forgiveness of sins!

Sing: What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again? Nothing but the blood of Jesus. Oh precious is the flow, that makes me white as snow. No other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus!

2010 October 11 - Morning Manna

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, Say unto thy brethren, This do ye; lade your beasts, and go, get you unto the land of Canaan; And take your father and your households, and come unto me: and I will give you the good of the land of Egypt, and ye shall eat the fat of the land. Now thou art commanded, this do ye; take you wagons out of the land of Egypt for your little ones, and for your wives, and bring your father, and come. Also regard not your stuff; for the good of all the land of Egypt is yours. 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 45:17-24).

Today's Morsel: Christopher Columbus had a vision of discovering an unknown land. So many who have had dreams of a better place, but because of the uncertainties, they are oftentimes afraid to venture forward. Columbus seems to have been a man of adventure, a man that was willing to take the challenge and to take the risk. He was a man that was not afraid to explore the unknown. Reading through his ship log, something got a hold of him, that possessed him to continue on his journey even in the face of hardships, loss, and amidst auguring, bickering, and fighting among those who traveled with him. Some even questioned the legitimacy of his mission. Yet Columbus pressed on until he discovered the new land, America.

When Joseph sent his brother to get his father Jacob and the rest of his family, he told them, "See that ye fall not out by the way." In other words, don't you allow anything to stop you, deter you, or cause you to lose your way. Today, there are many things out there that will try to get you off course, or to prevent you from reaching your dreams and goals. Let me encourage you, don't fall out of the way. Make sure that you stay in the straight and narrow path, as Jesus is leading you to a better place.

Sing: I'm pressing on the upward way, new heights I'm gaining every day; still praying as I'm onward bound, "Lord, plant my feet on 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.

2010 October 9 - Morning Manna

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (Matthew 7:13-15).

Today's Morsel:  If you've ever seen the movie "The Wizard of Oa", Dorothy is told that to find the wizard, the one who could show her how to get home, she must follow the "Yellow Brick Road."  In order to get home, she had to follow the instruction, stay on the Yellow brick road, and it would lead here where she was trying to get to.  How many times have we received instruction, but, yet chose our own way of how we will do it?   Instructions are for a purpose.  They are designed to ensure that we do things the correct way, and to also get us to where we are trying to get without getting lost or encountering danger.  Jesus had just told his follower, "Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (Matthew 7:13-15).  His instructions were clear.  But even today, many do not heed His instructions, and they are still following false prophets and wolves in sheep clothing.  Jesus said that not everyone who calls Him Lord will enter the kingdom. But only those that obey His Word. The Word is the instruction to get us on the straight road that will lead us to and through the gates of pearls and onto the streets of gold.  Are you heeding the instructions.

Sing:  Turn your eyes upon Jesus.  Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of this earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

2010 October 8 - Morning Manna

For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth (Zechariah 4:10)

 Today's Morsel:  I can remember in elementary school when our math teacher would explain addition problems to us. She would always stress the importance of not forgetting to add the number that you carried over into the next column.  She  said, "It may not seem important, and may seem very small, but if you forget to add that number, you answer is always going to be incorrect.  Even if it's only a 1, and you don't added it, it's wrong."  Small, but important.  When I attended my first Non-Commission Officers School, the instructor would always tell us, "Minor details will make you or break you." In other words, it's those small details that if you overlook them can destroy you.  The opposite is also true, if you do them, they can make you successful.  Little things.  Solomon said that it's the little foxes that spoil the vine.   If you have ever ridden in a helicopter, those big blades that cause it to fly are held on by a very small nut.  The crew chiefs and pilots call a "Jesus Nut."  If that nut isn't secured correctly, those blades are going to come off, that chopper will be headed for the ground, and everyone onboard is going to scream," Oh Jesus!"  Who had despised the day of small things?  Don't just look for the big miracles that God can do for you, but focus on the small things that He does for you. Like waking you in the morning; providing food on your table; giving you a job; keeping your senses intact.  Small things.  A $3.00 bouquet of roses can keep a marriage from heading south.  A 99 cent "just thinking of you card" can prevent someone from taking their life.  A phone call of encouragement can turn someone's life around.  A small gift at Christmas can show a child just how much they are loved.  Small things.  Small words. "Hi!" "How are you?" "I pray you have a great day!"  "Jesus loves you!" "You are really a nice person!" "Thank you so very much!"  We never know what small thing will make a difference in the lives of others.  Small things, don't despise them!

Sing:  Little is much when God is in it, Labor not for wealth or fame; there's a crown and you can win it, if you go in Jesus' name.

2010 October 7 - Morning Manna

I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed (Galatians 1:6-9).

Today's Morsel:  If you've ever been summoned to appear as a character witness for someone in a court of law, you know that prior to them putting you on the stand, they ask you, "Do you solemnly swear, to tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth so help you God?"  If a person lies, then they perjure themselves, and render their testimony irrelevant to the case.

 

Paul asked the church at Galatia, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? "(Galatians 3:1-3).  Paul knew that this church was established upon truth.  And now they had gone away from truth and Paul wanted to know who had tricked them into believing something else.  He told them that he marveled that they were so soon removed from the grace of God unto another gospel.  This Gospel came with grace.  Do you know what grace is?  Grace is getting something that you didn't work for.  It's a free gift.  That's why you are saved by grace.  It's a free gift that you don't have to work for.   Is the Gospel you are hearing truth? Are you at a cross road, that you no longer know what you believe because the leaders over you have changed their stance on certain issues.  Let me encourage you today, truth will always be truth.  No matter how you cut it, slice it, or dice it, it's still going to be truth.  No matter who is teaching, preaching, or writing it, it's still going to be truth.  And truth will always make you free (John 8:31&36).  Look at your life right now.  Do you feel liberty, excitement, and good about yourself as a Christian?  If not, you may not be in complete truth.  Paul said,  "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 11:14-15).   But to receive liberty, be excited, and feel good about yourself, you just can't hear truth, you have to live truth.   The next time you attend church, make sure you've got your Bible with you.  You will want to compare what you are hearing to what is written in the Word, to ensure that what you are hearing is correct.

Sing:  I'm gonna take a trip on that good Old Gospel Ship, I'm going far beyond the sky;  Oh I'm gonna shout and sing until the heavens ring, when I bid this world good-bye.

2010 October 6 - Morning Manna

Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come (John 16:13).

Today's Morsel:  It seems that almost all automobiles, manufactured these days are equipped with a Globe Positioning System (GPS).  And for those older models that were not manufactured with them, people have purchased one for their travels to ensure that they know where they are going and are able to get to the right location/destination.  Why are we afraid of getting lost? Why do we want to know where we are going in this world, but not after?  Are you plotting your course for heaven?  Jesus said that the Holy Ghost, the Spirit of Truth, will guide you into all truth.  You see, the only way to get to heaven is by Truth.  And so Jesus has developed a GPS, to get you to heaven, and the name brand is not "Garmen"or "Tom Tom",  but "Truth."   Solomon said, "Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding." (Proverbs 23:23).  Once you purchase this positioning system, don't you sell it.   It's the only one of its kind and no amount of money will ever replace it.  When it tells you where to turn or exit, obey it, as it has all the current updates to ensure you know and arrive at the right location.  

 

Sing:  Where He leads me I will follow.  Where He leads me I will follow.  Where He leads me I will follow, I'll go with Him, with Him, all the way!

2010 October 5 - Morning Manna

Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly, that God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ. Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.

(Acts 2:36-39)

Today's Morsel: In January, our Daughter, called all excited that our Grandson had just received the Holy Ghost in their morning church service. And then she called back in the evening service so we could hear him speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gave him the utterance. Then, on September 5, she called all excited again that our Granddaughter had just received the Holy Ghost, same sign, and was getting ready to be baptized by her Dad after morning service. Thank God that His promise is still as true today as when it was spoken over 2,000 years ago. On the Day of Pentecost when Peter said that the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call, he was speaking prophetically of this day and time also. The Holy Ghost just wasn't for the Day of Pentecost, as some teach, but it is still for us today. When He prayed in the Garden, Jesus said, "Neither pray I for these alone, (His disciples) but for them also which shall believe on me through their word" (John 17:20). The Holy Ghost comes by believing in Jesus Christ, because neither is there salvation in any other. I think the apostle John said it best when he said, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth" (3 John 1:4).

Sing: I've got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible says. I've got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible says. Well, I've been to the water and I've been baptized in Jesus Name, my soul got happy and I'm so satisfied. I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now, just like the Bible, just like the Bible, just like the Bible says!

2010 October 4 - Morning Manna

And there came unto me one of the seven angels which had the seven vials full of the seven last plagues, and talked with me, saying, Come hither, I will shew thee the bride, the Lamb's wife. And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it. And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there. And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it. And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life (Revelation 21:9-27).

Today's Morsel: The Apostle John gives us a glimpse of that great city, the Holy Jerusalem, that we alllong to enter someday. The description he provides us is one of beauty and splendor. Who wouldn't want to enter those gates and be with Jesus forever? But John tells us that the only ones that can walk in the light of it are those who are saved. Are you living according to the Word of God? Are you doing everything in your power to ensure that you are not defiling yourself with this world's ways and its activities? Friend, sin cannot enter there. Therefore, we must take heed to Paul's advice and come out from among the world and be separated unto the Lord (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). Are you ready? What will Jesus say to you? Will He say well done or go away? The children of Israel could not enter the Promise Land because of unbelief. We must also take heed lest we, too, come short of the promise given to us.

Sing: I am going to a city where the streets with gold are laid, where the tree of life is blooming, and the roses never fade.

Chorus: Here they bloom but for a season, soon their beauty is decayed; I am going to a city where the roses never fade.

2010 October 2 - Morning Manna

I will extol thee, O LORD; for thou hast lifted me up, and hast not made my foes to rejoice over me. O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me. O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit. Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning (Psalms 30:1-5).

Today's Morsel: How many times would you say in your life that you have been sick and God healed you? Do you believe that Jesus still heals? Isaiah said "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed"(Isaiah 53:5). The Psalmist said, "O LORD my God, I cried unto thee, and thou hast healed me." Has God healed you and you don't realize it? Are the medical personnel still giving you medication to take and God has already healed you? Do you feel that you aren't healed because of the pain that you still feel? I saw a sweatshirt once that said, "Pain is just weakness leaving the body." The Psalmist today is full of encouragement with this Psalm. He said, "O LORD, thou hast brought up my soul from the grave: thou hast kept me alive, that I should not go down to the pit." And then he tells us, "Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of his, and give thanks at the remembrance of his holiness. For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." Our instructions from Paul are, "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 5:19-20). Let me encourage you, don't focus of the pain, but focus on the Healer. Sing songs of praise to Him and see what He will do for you.

Sing: By and by when the morning comes, and all the saints of God are gathering home, we will tell the story, how we've overcome, and we'll understand it better by and by.

2010 October 1 - Morning Manna

And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept. For since by man came death, by man came also the resurrection of the dead. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive (1 Corinthians 15:17-22).

Today's Morsel: The resurrection is probably one of the most misunderstood subjects to many people, as they do not understand how it apply to their lives. Those who have not been born again of the water and the spirit cannot understand how it applies. We are all born in sin and shapen in iniquity. Paul told the church at Ephesus, "And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins" (Ephesians 2:1). In other words, he said that they were dead in their sins, but God raised them up. Until a person repents of their sins and is baptized in Jesus name, they are still dead in their sins. And sin cannot enter heaven. We must be resurrected to walk in newness of life. Jesus told Martha in John 11:25, "I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live" (John 11:25). The apostle John said in the book of Revelation, "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years" (Revelation 20:5-6). Speaking of the people of old before the flood, Peter said, "Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 3:20-21). Peter said that baptism saves us the same as the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Paul said, for since by man came death (Adam), even so by man also came the resurrection (Life) by Jesus Christ. We all possessed that Adamic nature when we are born into this world. Therefore, we must repent of our sins, be baptized in the name of Jesus, and be filled with His Spirit, and then rise and walk in newness of life. "For as in Adam all died," Paul said. But he also said, "Even so in Jesus Christ shall all be made alive by the resurrection." If you don't feel as though you have life within yourself, how were you baptized?

Sing: I serve a risen Saviour, He's in the world today; I know that He is living, no matter what men 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 today! 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.