2010 November 30 - Morning Manna

And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost (Luke 19:1-10).

Today's Morsel: There seems to be so many today without the knowledge of Jesus Christ.  Jesus came to seek and to save that which was lost, but because so many think that their salvation is intact, there seems to be no urgency by some to added spiritual things to their life.  Zacchaeus had status in life.  He had money.  He had a house to live in.  By today's standard, Zacchaeus, could have been a millionaire.  But Zacchaeus was missing something in his life. He was sinking in loneliness and despair.  He was without salvation.  Zacchaeus was lost.  Zacchaeus needed Jesus, and many around him never noticed.  He was like so many today, they have all the things that would cause most people to say that they are millionaires and that they must be happy.  But this is where so many error. Money and things don't meet salvation needs.  As Peter told Simon, your money perish with you that you thought you could buy the Holy Ghost.  Material things only help you present a front of  everything being alright.  But a true front and a life of contentment  will only be founded in a person when Jesus is the center of their lives.  If Jesus isn't first priority in a person's life, sooner or later, that life is going to become meaningless.  I believe that this is the point which Zacchaeus had reached and he went looking for Jesus.  Yes, he got into a tree to see, but I believe that he was hoping that Jesus would see him as well. And Jesus did not  disappoint him as He came to seek and to save that which was lost.  Are you lonely today?  Do you need a friend or someone to talk to? Then Jesus is seeking for you. Open your heart and He will come in and make Himself known unto you, as loneliness is a sign of something missing.

Sing:  One night while on life's raging sea, it looked as if I would suffer defeat. As the blackness of night closed off the light, my heart sank with fear.  My desperate cry rang out with fright; all I could see was no hope in sight.  With faith all but gone, I met the one, who came looking for me. (Chorus ) 

2.  Satan had already picked out my grave, his plan had moved forward to put me away. I'd drifted so far, would anyone care that I'd soon be lost. I knew my destruction was a matter of time, but Jesus appeared and said, "This one is mine." Now I'm safe with no harm, for he walked through the storm, He came looking for me. (Chorus) 

Chorus:  He came looking for me, He came looking for me. He made a way when there was no way that I could see. When I drifted so far, Jesus was near, to rescue my soul, and calms all my fears. Now I'm safe from all harm, since I met the one,  who came looking for me.

2010 November 29 - Morning Manna

"The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever "(Psalms 23:1-6).

Today's Morsel:  How strong is your confidence in God?  Is it as David's?  Psalms 23 is often heard during the times of bereavement more than any other time.  This has been known as the comforter psalm.  This psalm seems to give people strength in those low-estate times more than some of the other ones.  All of God's Word is designed to strengthen us in our affliction, but Psalms 23 seems to have a special place for many during those tough times.  David, who had been through so much in his life, gives us a portrait of this psalm by using the analogy of a shepherd to His sheep.  He says that the Lord is his shepherd.  Jesus is our Shepherd (John 10:11&14).  Therefore, He will protect us and provide for us. We have no need to fret of things and our needs as the Shepherd will provide them for us.  David said that the shepherd (Jesus) will make us to lie down in green pastures and will lead us by still waters.  Still waters run deep, and Jesus is the living water (John 4).  When we are weak, lonely, and without joy, the Shepherd will restore our soul.  He sends us help from the sanctuary and strengthengths us out of Zion (Psalms 20:1-2).  And because we are His (1 John 3:1-4), His goodness and mercy will always be with us no matter where we are or where we go.  So don't worry, He will never leave you nor forsake you.

Sing:  He leadeth me!  He leadeth me!  By His own hand He leadeth me; His faithful follower I will be, for by His hand He leadeth me.

2010 November 27 - Morning Manna

For thus saith the LORD; We have heard a voice of trembling, of fear, and not of peace. Ask ye now, and see whether a man doth travail with child? wherefore do I see every man with his hands on his loins, as a woman in travail, and all faces are turned into paleness? Alas! for that day is great, so that none is like it: it is even the time of Jacob's trouble; but he shall be saved out of it. For it shall come to pass in that day, saith the LORD of hosts, that I will break his yoke from off thy neck, and will burst thy bonds, and strangers shall no more serve themselves of him: But they shall serve the LORD their God, and David their king, whom I will raise up unto them
(Jeremiah 30:5-9).

Today's Morsel: Each morning, as I open the newspaper to read, I see many folks who are in lots of trouble.  Murder, drugs, drinking and driving, abuse, child negelect, so much pain and suffering and that it would be the same as the time of Jacob's trouble.  What was Jacob's trouble? Jacob's trouble was a time of suffering and captivity.  It was a time that the children were taken from their homeland and made slaves.  It was 70 years of bondage.  Many wondered why God would allow His chosen to face such suffering, and allow them to go into captivity.  The answer lies in the fact that they were rebellious and did not obey God's commands.  Even though God allowed them to go into captivity, it was an example to us, that we might learn from their mistake  and not end up in captivity.  As Paul said, "For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them" (Romans 1:20-32).  When you know God, and yet you refuse or fail to glorify Him as God, you may want to get ready for captivity.  Captivity has a way of teaching us.  Right now, you may feel as though you are in captivity and the weight is upon your shoulders.  Your troubles may not have been caused by you but by others.  But as God's children, He won't forget you.  So stay faithful and He will deliver you.

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

2010 November 26 - Morning Manna

And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and despised others: Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a Pharisee, and the other a publican. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. I fast twice in the week, I give tithes of all that I possess. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner. I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted (Luke 18:9-14).

Today's Morsel:  Jesus said that two men went up to pray; one a Pharisee, the other a sinner.  Are you a Pharisee or sinner when you go to pray?  If you say neither, you may want to stop and look again.  The Pharisees believed in the resurrection and angels.  Where as sinners say that they believe, but don't confess it with their lifestyle or conversation (manner of life).  Jesus said that both of these men went to pray.  But the Pharisee allowed pride to control him in his prayer time.  Even though he believed an important part of the gospel, the resurrection, he saw himself as being better than others, and his focus was more on who he was during his pray time, than repentance and seeking for change.  In a way, this reflect many Christians.  They put themselves on a pedestal, and their prayers are about them, their needs, who they are, and what they have done.  But the sinner, on the other hand, knows that he is not right when he comes before God, and therefore, he sees his need and wants to change.  When we come before God, we must always come with a broken spirit and a contrite heart, as these things God will not despise.  God knows who we are and where we are.  If we say that we are His, then neither of these descriptions, Pharisee nor sinner, should identify us.  But woe to him to whom it does.  Remember, those who are born again, understand that we are just sinners saved by grace and not prideful Pharisee's.

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

2010 November 25 - Morning Manna

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

Today's Morsel:  Thanksgiving or Thanksgiving Day, celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November in America, has been an annual tradition in the United States since 1863.   Thanksgiving was historically a religious observance to give thanks to God.  It is thought that the first Thanksgiving was celebrated to give thanks to God for helping the pilgrims of Plymouth Colony survive their first brutal winter in New England.  The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days providing enough food for 53 pilgrims and 90 Native Americans.  The feast consisted of fowl, venison, fish, lobster, clams, berries, fruit, pumpkin, and squash.  William Bradford's note that, "Besides waterfowl, there was great store of wild turkeys, of which they took many,"  probably gave rise to the American tradition of eating turkey at Thanksgiving. 

We must learn to give thanks in all things and for everything.  When we praise God, we are thanking Him for all the things that He has done for us and will continue to do for us. We must always possess an attitude of gratitude  and not ingratitude.  We must be thankful and not unthankful.  If we would take inventory, we would see that we are blessed and, in more cases than not, have more than what we need.  The Psalmist said, "O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever" (Psalms 136:1).  Mercy is not getting what we deserve.  If God would mark iniquity, none could stand.  But because there is forgiveness with God, we should thank Him for His loving-kindness toward us.  They say that the most ungrateful people in the world are those who do not share with others the things that they have.  Are you thankful?  Are you thankful for your family and friends?  Are you thankful for your freedom?  Are you thankful for your salvation and life?  Paul said that we should give thanks in everything for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning us.  Are you in His will?

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

2010 November 24 - Morning Manna

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.  Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples (John 15:1-8).

Today's Morsel: Well, Fall is here and Winter is coming on.  And that means, pruning time for the fruit growers is at hand.  It's time to cut back the limbs and branches that produced fruit this past year, and also those that didn't so they may produce more next year.  The reason the branches that produce fruit have to be pruned or cut back, is because the limb will break from the tree or vine once the large quantities of fruit comes next year.  The closer the limb is to the tree, the stronger it becomes and the more weight it can handle.  Jesus is the tree and we are the branches.  As we produce fruit, He prunes us to keep us closer and closer to Him that we may produce more fruit, and also able to handle the weight.  He also prunes us to keep us close to Him so that we will remain strong in Him.  The pruning process sometimes hurts.  But Jesus knows that if He doesn't cut us back, we can break away from the tree, through the weight of pride, self-conceit, and self-elevation.  Therefore, we should say as the apostle Paul "Yet not I, but Christ, that liveth in me" (Galatians 2:20).  It is He that does the work.  If you stay close to Jesus, you will always be fruitful and fit for the Master's use.

Sing:  Jesus, keep me near the cross, there a precious fountain. Free to all a healing stream, flows from Calvary's mountain.  In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever; till my raptured soul shall find, rest beyond the river.

2010 November 23 - Morning Manna

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. (John 14:1-6)

Today's Morsel: I had  a man tell me once that his wife thought the TV soap opera "Guiding light"  was a religious program, until she started to coming to the church where I pastored.  What humor. 

Now days, with the Global Positioning Systems (GPS), it seems much easier to find your way to wherever you want to go.  You just put in the address, and that puppy will take you right to your location.  It's too bad that this system doesn't computer to get you to heaven.  If you are going to go to heaven, you are going to have to revert back to the old way of travel, the Word of God.   We are going to have to use that original light.   Jesus is the light which rules the day and the night, and He is the bright and morning star.  He is the one that orders our steps in His Word.   So if you are going to make heaven, you are going to have to follow His directions as He leads you.  "No man can come unto the Father,  but by me," Jesus said.  Jesus is the only way to heaven.  As Jacob said, "This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven" (Genesis 28:17).  If you are going to heaven, you have got to be in the church.  You can't make it on your own.  The church is for the perfecting of the saints and the working of the ministry.  There is no other way.  Check the Bible.  It's your heavenly GPS.

Sing:  There's just one, one, one; one way to God. There's just one, one, one; one way to God. There's just one, one, one; one way to God, baptized in Jesus name.

2010 November 22 - Morning Manna

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavoured to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them. Therefore loosing from Troas, we came with a straight course to Samothracia, and the next day to Neapolis; And from thence to Philippi, which is the chief city of that part of Macedonia, and a colony: and we were in that city abiding certain days. And on the sabbath we went out of the city by a river side, where prayer was wont to be made; and we sat down, and spake unto the women which resorted thither. And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us. (Acts 16:9-15)

Today's Morsel:  They say that during slavery time, when the slaves wanted to meet for prayer, they had a song or signal they gave to let the other slaves know where they would be meeting.  One of the songs they would sang was, "Meet Me Down By The River."  This way, the slaves could have a prayer meeting and fellowship with one another.  The apostle Paul received in a vision of a man saying come over and help us.  Luke records that after they came into Macedonia on the Sabbath, they went down by the river to pray.  And as they talked with the women who were there, Lydia, who was a fabric seller and a worshipper of God, heard them and the Lord opened her heart.  In other words, God gave her an understanding as to what Paul was talking or preaching about.  When she gained understanding, she wanted to be baptized and her household as well.  The teaching and preaching of the gospel is always going to open someone's heart.  The next time you go to the river to fish, or just take a dip, why not have a prayer meeting. Someone one may be listening.

Sing:  Let's go down, by the river. Let's go down, by the river.  Meet me down, by the river.  Meet me down, by the river.  There is joy, by the river.  There is joy, joy by the river.  I'm going down, by the river.  I'm going down, by the river.

Chorus: Let's go down, let's go down, by the river.  Let's go down, let's go down, by the river.

2010 November 20 - Morning Manna

Give unto the LORD, O ye mighty, give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.(Psalms 29:1-2)

Today's Morsel:  The Hebrew word for holiness is kodesh, which means something which is cut off, separate or set apart.  It describes that which is anti-secular (secular of or relating to the worldly or temporal), in a category all its own.  Kodesh describes something that is elevated out of the sphere of what is ordinary.  The New Testament word hagios also means set apart, separate, and so in a class by itself.  It follows that for believers, the call to be holy is a call to be separated from common use and set apart, or reserved, for special use.  In both Old and New Testaments, the term is applied to things, persons, and pre-eminently to God Himself.  A beautiful illustration of the inherent idea of separation that is found in the word holiness comes from the world of nature.  I read the following article in my daily devotion which I feel address holiness.

In the forests of northern Europe and Asia lives a little animal called the ermine, known for his snow-white fur in winter.  He instinctively protects his white coat against anything that would soil it.  Fur hunters take advantage of this unusual trait of the ermine.  They don’t set a snare to catch him, but instead they find his home, which is usually a cleft in a rock or a hollow in an old tree.  They smear the entrance and interior with grime.  Then the hunters set their dogs loose to find and chase the ermine.  The frightened animal flees toward home, but doesn’t enter because of the filth.  Rather than soil his white coat, he is trapped by the dogs and captured while preserving his purity.  For the ermine, purity is more precious than life.

What an awesome example of holiness.  Willing to give one's life to remain pure.  To be willing to die rather than  defile oneself with the filthy and grime of this world.  Paul says that nature itself teaches us.  We are called to be holy because the Lord is holy (1 Peter 1:16).  We are to be set apart and meet for the Master's use.  As Isaiah said, "And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called the way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein" (Isaiah 35:8).  If you plan on seeing and being with Jesus, you must be holy (Hebrews 12:14).

 

Sing:  I'm not doubting about the way!  Oh, Oh, Oh! I'm not doubting about the way!  Walking in the light, holiness is right, and I'm not doubting about the way!

2010 November 19 - Morning Manna

Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it. And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings, the people were astonished at his doctrine: For he taught them as one having authority, and not as the scribes. (Matthew 7:21-29).

Today's Morsel:  When we lived in Okinawa, it wasn't uncommon during the summer and fall for a typhoon to pop up on the radar screen and head for Okinawa.  Therefore, we always had to be ready.  We needed to have a typhoon kit for that uncertain destruction should it come.  Jesus said that everyone that hears his Word and doesn't do it, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it.  The storm is going to come unexpectedly to see what you are made of.  How will your house stand?  When the waves of doubt, and winds of doctrines begin to pound against you, will you fall, or will you be able to stand?  You can stand if your life is built upon the rock, Jesus Christ and His word.  But if not, you may suffer loss.  So let me encourage you today, every house needs a little remodeling every now and then, so why not do a self-evaluation to ensure you are ready for the winds and rain that may come upon you unexpectedly.

Sing:  There's a storm out on the ocean, and it's moving, this a way; If your soul's not, anchored in Jesus, you will surely, drift away.

2010 November 18 - Morning Manna

This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men. (Titus 3:8)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the military, and each time I chose to reenlist, I had to recite the oath of enlistment.  It was more or less an affirmation that I would continue to perform the oath I had taken when I first enlisted to serve.  They used to have us swear, but then someone said that Bible says that we should not swear, and so they began to allow soldiers to swear or affirm their commitment.  No matter which word the soldier chose to use, (swear or affirm) he was confirming his commitment to fulfill his duty and his oath.

 

Paul said that there are things that must be affirmed constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works.  We must constantly affirm our commitment to God.  We must affirm our love and faith.  We must affirm our commitment to set the captives free.  We must affirm to a life of holiness and separation from this world.  We must affirm that we will hold fast to sound doctrine.  We must affirm family values, convictions, and promises.  Are you affirming your commitment to God regularly?  Are you reenlisting in the Lord's Army?  There is no discharge in this war.  King Solomon informs us,  "There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it" (Ecclesiastes 8:8). When we affirm to live our lives according to His Word, these things become good and profitable unto men.

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

2010 November 17 - Morning Manna

And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea: for they were fishers. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren, James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with Zebedee their father, mending their nets; and he called them. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and followed him (Matthew 4:18-22).

Today's Morsel:  What were you doing when Jesus called you?  Do you know where your were?  What many fail to realize about Jesus' call to His disciples is what they were doing.  If you were to ask most people what the disciples were doing, they would tell you that they were fishing.  But not all of them were fishing. Peter and his brother Andrew were fishing, but James and John were helping their family mend and repair their nets.  When you look at the writings of Peter, James and John, you will notice that Peter's message is always casting the vision, while James' and John's writings are about repairing and mending.  A church can have a great vision, but if no one is repairing, restoring, and fixing, it isn't going anywhere.  Great ideals are just a dream that never get off the ground, without great men and women to carry them out and be a part of it bringing the vision to fruition. When you look at what Paul wrote to the church at Ephesus in Chapter 4, He said that God gave some apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers for the perfecting of the saints, for the working of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; till we all come into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man (Ephesians 4:11-15). Notice,  some of these cast vision for the church, while others repair and fix the church.  As one man wrote, the apostles governed, the prophets guided, the evangelists gathered, the pastors guarded, and the teachers grounded.  No matter what each one does, it is all for the building up of the Kingdom of God.  But it all has to start with a willingness to leave where you are when God calls you and go on to perfection.

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

2010 November 16 - Morning Manna

Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities (2 Corinthians 11:24-30).

But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24)

  

Today's Morsel:  Have you noticed that all those commercials and advertisements you hear about the longest lasting batteries really aren't  true?  I don't think that the Energizer Bunny lasts longer than any other battery.  He may beat for a while, but he's coming to an end sooner or later.  If you are looking for something to keep you running and running, and going and going, get the Holy Ghost in your life.  Look at the apostle Paul.  From the time he heard the truth of the Gospel, received the Holy Ghost, and applied it to his life, he didn't stop running until he was bound and couldn't run any more.  And then the only way they could stop him from running was to kill him.  But that really didn't stop him either.  What his death did was cause people to seek for the "product" Paul was selling.  Have you found the product that bears Jesus' name, the One that will keep you running forever?  It's called "Holy Ghost Power."

"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).  

 "And when they had set them in the midst, they asked, By what power, or by what name, have ye done this? Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel, If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole; Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole. This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:7-12).

 If you are going to keep on going to make it to the end, you are going to need that Holy Ghost Power.

Sing:  I got it, the Holy Ghost power.  Do you want it, the Holy Ghost power.  I need it, the Holy Ghost power.  Go back to the altar, Down on your knees, Stay there ‘til you get the Holy Ghost power.

2010 November 15 - Morning Manna

And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints, and to be admired in all them that believe (because our testimony among you was believed) in that day (2 Thessalonians 1:7-10).

Today's Morsel:  The way that the world is going, so many people are on edge and full of unrest.  People seem to be stressed, despaired, perplexed, and hopeless.  I don't know why Christians are so concerned about the way the world is going; they get themselves into such a knot over the way things are.  This isn't our home, we're just passing through.  We are to become insulated from this world.  Remember when the Lord told Noah to pitch the Ark within and without with pitch.  In other words, seal it tight.  You need to be sealed within and without with the Holy Ghost and the Word of God.  Don't think that people who are doing wicked are going to get away. They shall soon be gone as the chaff with the wind.  Don't think that God doesn't see their wicked ways.  He will judge them (Psalms 1). Therefore, you keep your mind and focus stayed on Jesus, keep praying, watching, and you'll see what He does about their wickedness.  You shouldn't sweat the small stuff.  God always has His children's best interest at heart.  Paul said, "And to you who are troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, In flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power; When he shall come to be glorified in his saints."  Don't let what you see taking place in this world trouble you.  Keep witnessing for Jesus.  Live your life as a His chosen vessel, and you'll be able to rein with Him when it's all over.

Sing: I am weak but thou are strong, Jesus keep me from all wrong; I'll be satisfied as long as I walk, let me walk close to Thee.

 

Chorus: Just a closer walk with Thee, grant it, Jesus is my plea; daily walking close to Thee, let it be, dear Lord let it be.

2010 November 13 - Morning Manna

And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint (Luke 18:1).

If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small.
(Proverbs 24:10)

Today's Morsel: "Quitters never win and winners never quit."  I'm sure you've heard that quote.  But why are so many winners quitting? You see those who are born again or winners, but yet today, we see so many of them are quitting.  I'm not talking about quitting a career, a profession, or even a position in the church.  I'm talking about how people are just giving up on God.  They are throwing in the towel and walking away.  For some reason, they have become weary in well doing.  I think that weariness has been caused by a shadowed prayer life.  When Jesus told Peter to watch and pray, that he enter not into temptation; He told him, "The Spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41). When you quit, you have been over-come by the temptation called "Quit."  I'm sure many of you have faced this enemy of your soul.  He's always going to be there when you are working for the Lord.  Let me show you how he works.  This spirit will tell you to Quit trying to be so holy; Quit trying to be Miss/Mr. Goodytwoshoes; Quit trying to be so perfect; Quit trying to make people like you;  Quit talking about Jesus all the time; Quit wasting your time on those people, they don't won't to hear about Jesus anyway.  And the spirit to quit will over power you if you don't pray. Solomon said that if you quit in the day of adversity, your strength is small.  Do you need to exercise your faith more?  Jude said that we need to build up ourselves in our most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost (Jude 20).  If you are going to be strong in the Lord, you have to pray without ceasing and give thanks in everything.  Jesus said that if you pray you won't quit.  This is because the more you pray, the more you will see the need to keep doing the right things in your life.

Sing:  I'm learning how to lean, and depend on Jesus.  He's my friend, and He's my guide.  I'm learning how to lean, and depend on Jesus; I found out, if I trust Him, He will provide!

2010 November 12 - Morning Manna

For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works

(2 Corinthians 11:13-15).

Today's Morsel:  They say that people who are labeled as being identical twins, really aren't identical, but each of them have some differences from the other.  They may look alike from a distance, but once up close, you are able to see some of the differences that each of them possess.  Their eye color may be different; or one may have a different head shape, or nose size.  There will always be something different.  And they will have a unique DNA.  Even though Jacob and Esau were twins, they were different in many ways.  Paul said that Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.  Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as ministers of righteousness.  In other words, they may look like the real ministers of the gospel, but they are totally different in many ways when you get up close.  They may be able to preach the Word with boldness and know the scriptures from Genesis to Revelation; but when you get up close to them, if you know Truth, you will be able to identify those marks that aren't like Christ.  Jesus said, "You shall know them by their fruit."  Their fruit won't be sweet.  They will say that they know Jesus, but their attitude and character won't be like His.  Even their lifestyle will reflect the worlds ways and not Christ's.  They will tell you one thing, but do another.  They will preach to you to do, but they won't do.  They will preach to you to give, but they won't give.  But you won't be able to see this from afar.  You will have to get up close to them in order to see them for who they really are.  As Jesus said, "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (Matthew 7:15).

Sing: 1. Satan's like a roaring lion, roaming to and fro; seeking whom he may devour, the Bible tells me so.  Many souls have been his prey, to fall in some weak hour, but God has promised us toda,y His overcoming power.(Chorus)

         

2. On the day of Pentecost a rushing might wind, blew into the upper room, and baptized all of them, with a power greater than any earthly foe, and I'm so glad I've got it too, I'm gonna let the whole world know. (Chorus)

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

2010 November 11 - Morning Manna

Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  (2 Corinthians 3:17)

Today's Morsel:   I watched the flag pass by one day, it fluttered in the breeze; a young Marine saluted it, and then he stood at ease.  I looked at him in uniform, so young, so tall, so proud; With hair cut square and eyes alert, he'd stand out in any crowd.  I thought ... how many men like him, had fallen through the years?  How many died on foreign soil?  How many mothers' tears?   How many pilots' planes shot down?  How many died at sea?  How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?  No ... Freedom is not free.   I heard the sound of Taps one night, when everything was still; I listened to the buglar play, and felt a sudden chill; I wondered just how many times that Taps had meant "Amen," When a flag had draped a coffin of a brother or a friend; I thought of all the children, of the mothers and the wives, of fathers, sons and husbands ... with interrupted lives.  I thought about a graveyard, at the bottom of the sea, of unmarked graves in Arlington ... No ... Freedom is not free!  

 

Freedom isn't free.  And today I salute all the veterans who have served that we may have liberty and freedom in our country. 

 

In order for us to be free from our trespasses and sins, Jesus died for us.  Paul said that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.  Do you have the Holy Ghost dwelling inside of you?  If you do, than you should be free from yourself.  Solomon said, "The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways: and a good man shall be satisfied from himself" (Proverbs 14:14).  The best freedom is freedom from self.  Jesus said that He came to set the captives free (Luke 4:18).  Are you free?

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

 

Happy Veteran Day, my fellow comrades!

2010 November 10 - Morning Manna

Oh that my head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for the slain of the daughter of my people! Oh that I had in the wilderness a lodging place of wayfaring men; that I might leave my people, and go from them! for they be all adulterers, an assembly of treacherous men. And they bend their tongues like their bow for lies: but they are not valiant for the truth upon the earth; for they proceed from evil to evil, and they know not me, saith the LORD (Jeremiah 9:1-3).

Today's Morsel:  Have you ever seen a child trying to get an older person's hand open, a hand where one of their toys or a piece of candy they've been promised has been placed?  If you will notice, those little hands seem to have a strong pull in their effort to get what they want.  When we lived in Okinawa, I would watch church people sleep outside the post and base exchanges (PX/BX) all night just to be first in line for toys or clothing; yet you could never get them to be on time for church!  It's amazing the amount of strength and energy we seem to have when it's something that we want.  But when it comes to truth, people don't always seem to be too  valiant about it.  How eager are you for the truth?  Daniel said, "And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits" (Daniel 11:32).  Are you avid for the truth?  Are you breaking down the doors of the church to get a front row seat so that you will know more about God?  Are you pushing your way through the crowds at Christmas to get a new Bible?  James said, "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning" (James 1:17).  Jesus said the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).   So let me encourage you today, put some energy and strength towards getting the truth more than other things.  Without Jesus, you can do nothing.

Sing:  It shall be light in the evening time; the path to glory you will surely find through the water way; it is the light today.  Baptized in Jesus' name. Young and old, repent of all your sin, then the Holy Ghost will enter in, the evening time has come; 'Tis a fact that God and Christ are one.

2010 November 9 - Morning Manna

If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan
(Jeremiah 12:5)?

Today's Morsel:  Over the years, I have heard students say, "That was a hard test.  Man, I don't know if I passed or failed. That was the most difficult test I've ever taken."  They live a life of stress and worry because of a test.   Jeremiah said, "If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?"  In other words, he says if you think it's hard when it's easy, what are you going to do when it really gets tough?  Some tasks and tesst come easy.  But as you advance, you realize that i gets harder. Therefore, you have to buckle down  a little bit more and study a little bit harder, so that you know how to do what you need to do, or else you will become weary and faint in your mind.  Paul said, "This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Timothy 3:1-7).  The times we are now living in will try your soul. These are times that will push you harder to see what your faith is made of. These are the times that will determine if you have a relationship with Jesus, or just an acquaintance.  As Paul again admonishes us, "Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived (2 Timothy 3:12-13).  These are the times that are going to try your faith in the fire.  But if you can't run with the horses, and you can't swim the Jordan, how will you get to the other side?  Here's how: "But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works" (2 Timothy 3:14-17).  Don't let go of the Word of God, it is where your strength lies.

Sing:  I can run through a troop, and leap over a wall, Hallelujah! Hallelujah!  I can run through a troop, and leap over a wall, Hallelujah! Hallelujah!  He's the Rock of my salvation, in Him there is no condemnation.  I can run through a troop, and leap over a wall, Hallelujah! Hallelujah!

2010 November 8 - Morning Manna

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life
(Proverbs 4:23).

Today's Morsel:  There seem to be many people suffering with heart problems these days.  Heart attacks, strokes, heart failure.  So many problems seem to be caused by the heart.  Without the heart, we can't live.  Why doesn't everyone have a healthy heart?  Why do so many have blockage to their heart?  Are you having heart problems and don't know it?  Heart problems can kill at a moment's notice without warning.  You may think that you have a good heart, but Jeremiah said, "The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it "(Jeremiah 17:9)?  Your heart can fool you.  Solomon said that you have to guard your heart.  You have to protect it.  You have to ensure that nothing is coming in, and going into your heart that can destroy you.  David, the beloved psalmist, had committed adultery with Bathsheba and had her husband killed, and when his sin was revealed to him by God, prayed, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me" (Psalms 51:10). David realized that he had a heart problem and only God could fix it.  He wasn't aware that this evil had gotten into his heart. He failed to guard his heart. Even with all the praising and acknowledging the great God, and how good God had been to him, he failed to guard his own heart.  Are you having heart issues?  Are you still clinging to past hurts, bitterness, envy, prejudices, and bad decisions?  If so, be careful. These things can affect the heart and cause it to stop working at a moment's notice.   If you don't guard your heart and ensure it remains clean and pure, it's going to destroy you.

Sing:  Create in me a clean heart, Oh God, and renew a right spirit within.  Create in me a clean heart, Oh God, and renew a right spirit within.  Cast me not away from thou presence, Oh Lord. Take not thou Holy Spirit from me.  Restore unto me, the joy of thy salvation, and renew a right spirit within me.

2010 November 6 - 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).

That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind  (Ephesians 4:22-23).

For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he: Eat and drink, saith he to thee; but his heart is not with thee (Proverbs 23:7).

Today's Morsel:  What are you thinking right now?  I'll give you a penny for your thoughts.  Isn't it strange that we will become what we think.  Is it any wonder that the apostle Paul calls for us to renew our mind.  What many fail to see, is that once we become new creatures in Christ, through our new birth experience, we have to change the way we think.  I have counseled with many people during my ministry, and I have noticed that in every session, whether it's marriage, finances, job, or family related problems, the cause of every issue, is that people have not changed their way of thinking.  They continue to operate and walk in the flesh and not in the Spirit.  People who say that they are born again and are Christians, have to learn to think anew and afresh.  If you think the way you've always thought, you will always do what you have always done.  And there is nothing new about that.  And this is why so many people in the church are having so many issues.  If you want to have a good marriage, don't get a divorce and look for someone else, try changing your way of thinking and you'll realize that the knight in shining armor, and the princess in white silk lace is still right there with you.  And all those people you think are mean, micro-managing, and foul-mouthed that you work with, if you change your thinking, you'll see that they need to be delivered from the snares of the devil which haveh taken them captive at his will.  Really, renewing your mind doesn't change others, it changes you.  And when we realize that, then we'll be able to see just how beautiful the things around us really are.

Sing:  Today, no condemnation, abides to turn away; My soul, from His salvation, He's in my heart to stay.

Chorus: I see, a crimson stream of blood, it flows from Calvary. It's waves which reach the throne of God, are sweeping over me!

2010 November 5 - Morning Manna

No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD (Isaiah 54:17).

Today's Morsel:  What has always intrigued me about the U.S. Military, is the number of weapon systems.  Boy, does these young men and women have toys to play with.  You name it, it's there.  There have been so many weapons developed by man, that it's hard to even name them all.   But even with all the weapons that have been developed, the Lord said that none of them that are formed shall prosper against you.  That means, that there are weapons the enemy of your soul has already developed that he will come against you with, but you can be confident that none of them will destroy you.  His weapons are lies, deceit, envy, jealousy, hatred, lust, temptations, sickness, distress, indebtedness, and discontentment, just to name a few.  But none of them can defeat you if you keep your armor on and prove it every day (Ephesians 6:10-18).  You must remain strong in the Lord.  And that comes through reading and study of His Word and keeping yourself in His love.  You must not allow what people say about you to cause you to become bitter and angry.  Remember, Satan's soldiers  also appears as soldiers of light.  Therefore, you have to give vengeance to the Lord, allow Him to work on your behalf.  The devil has nothing in his arsenal that can defeat you.  He will use physiological warfare, too, in trying to defeat you.  But you must be sober, vigilant, and steadfast in the faith.  Don't lose heart when the darts of his weapons start to fly your way.  Remember, your shield of faith, which has been give to you by God, can repell them all.  So the next time you feel that the enemy's attack is coming against you, stand your ground, because yielding pacifies offenses.  And we are not about to give Satan what he wants!

Sing:  See the glorious banner waving! Hear the trumpet blow! In our Leader's name we'll triumph over every foe.

Chorus:  "Hold the fort, for I am coming," Jesus signals still; wave the answer back to heaven, "By Thy grace we will."

2010 November 4 - Morning Manna

But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more; And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you (1 Thessalonians 4:9-11).

Today's Morsel:  During World War II, there was a song made entitled, "Lose Lips, Sink Ships."  In other words, talking too much and providing too much information could aid the enemy. And even today, we hear terms such as OPSEC (Operation Security), TMI (Too Much Information), and as one of my friends use to say, "You talk too much, you'll make grown folks hate you."

 

Paul said that we need to study to be quiet, and to do our own business, and to work with our own hands.  Why do some people feel that they need to share everything that they know.  I've heard it said that Satan can't read your mind, but he understands every word you say and will use them against you.  So I guess if people that are having problems and circumstances would learn to be quiet and let God handle the matter, they may get through it faster.  Solomon said, "What Say Ye?  Life and death or in the power of the tongue" (Proverbs 28:21).  Remember, you don't want to aid the enemy of your soul!

Sing: Deeper, higher, everyday in Jesus, till all conflict pass, finds me conqueror, and in His own image, perfected at last.

O deeper yet, I pray, and higher every day, and wiser, blessed Lord, in Thy precious holy word.

2010 November 3 - Morning Manna

In the LORD put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain? For, lo, the wicked bend their bow, they make ready their arrow upon the string, that they may privily shoot at the upright in heart. If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalms 11:1-3)

Today's Morsel:  A few years ago, there was an earthquake in Taipei, Taiwan.  And an apartment building fell and lives were lost. When the inspectors reviewed the structure of the building, they noticed that the foundation had been filled in with old metal drums, cans, and other materials, and thus it was not strong enough to withstand the massive tremble that took place.  Lives were lost because someone chose to take a shortcut.  Many churches today are taking shortcuts.  They aren't sticking with the original foundation.  The book of Acts establishes the church's foundation.  What kind of material is your spiritual foundation built on?  Paul said, "We are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:20-22).  That means that the church's foundation is solid because Jesus is The Rock upon which it is built.  David said that the wicked tries to shoot arrows at the heart of the upright.  In other words, the wicked is trying to destroy the foundation of the righteous.  If you follow the media and politics, then you know that the wicked is trying to destroy the foundation of Jesus Christ and what the Christian faith stands for.  Jesus said that we would be hated for His name sake.  But let me encourage you, preach the gospel.  It is the foundation of the church, and it is still the only life changing message for the world.  

Sing: My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly lean on Jesus' name.

On Christ the solid Rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand.

2010 November 2 - Morning Manna

"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit "(Proverbs 15:4)

Today's Morsel:  When I arrived in Vietnam for combat duty, we were first given an orientation on how the enemy can breach our parameters.  It was amazing to watch how the enemy could get through razor sharp concertina wire.  One guy would slowly and tediously open a hole big enough for the others to easily get through and into the parameter without being seen, and it would be through this breach in the defense that many enemy soldiers would come and destroy lives and material.

Satan's goal is to establish a breach in your defense.  Solomon said, "A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit."  How we speak can bring about life to others.  But if we use our words incorrectly or perversely, we have a breach (an opening) in our spirit for the enemy to enter through.  Somehow we have allowed the enemy to get inside.  Somehow we have allowed the works of the flesh to manifest themselves within us.  Therefore, we need to search our hearts and ensure that the gap is repaired and filled so that no other enemies can come in.   Solomon tells us to guard our hearts for out of it are the issues of life.  We must become as the psalmist when he prayed,  "Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips" (Psalms 141:3).  Sticks and stones do break bones and words sure do hurt.

  

Sing:  He touched me, Oh He touched me.  And Oh the joy that floods my soul.  Something happened, and now I know, Jesus touched me, and made me whole.

2010 November 1 - Morning Manna

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows (1 Timothy 6:6-10).

Today's Morsel: Are you content with your life?  We like to say, “Change my circumstances and then I’ll be happy.”  James says, “Draw nigh to God and He will draw nigh to you."  If I allow God to get close to me, He will take care of my circumstances.   We have to learn to serve God where we are until He clearly calls us elsewhere.  It’s not wrong to better yourself, but more money or a new position doesn’t necessarily mean a better situation nor a change in your outlook.  Jesus said, "But seek ye first the Kingdom of God and all these things shall be added unto you." That’s the key to coming into the knowledge and knowing God’s will.  If I’m going to live for God, I can do that at any place or at any location.  I use to have people ask me, "How can you serve God in the military?" And I would reply, "The same way you serve God at Wal-mart, K-mart, Burger King or at any other location, I made up my mind."  You see, I can be content driving a Dodge or Cadillac; while living in a nice home or a military tent.  I can be content serving God whether I'm in Okinawa Japan, or 29 palms  California.  I can serve God single or married.  It doesn’t matter. The ball is in my court and I can choose to serve or let it pass.  It's up to me.  Therefore, I conclude that, contentment is totally up to me.   So the issue is not God nor is it my circumstances, but me, myself, and I.  It doesn't matter if ya person a cook, cleaner, clerk, painter, bank teller, washes the sheets, keeps the lawn, tends the animals, or serves the meals and bus tables, etc.  What does it matter what we are asked to do?  Nothing!  All children of God are honored in His sight no matter what our occupataion or location in this life.  Jesus said, "But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat? And will not rather say unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward thou shalt eat and drink? Doth he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" (Luke 17:9-10).   So no matter your location or your position in life, keep your eyes on Jesus and keep Him first in your life.  Do all heartily as on to the Lord, and just say that was my duty and then you will be content.

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