2011 January 31 - Morning Manna

So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.
(Romans 8:8-15)

 

 

Today's Morsel: It is amazing to me that my parents tried to teach me to save at such an early age.  We give children piggy banks and say, "Make sure to save your money in here."  How many of you still use a piggy bank?  My kids use to love Christmas around our house, because I would always open my piggy bank and let them have what was inside of it.  They each got half.  For kids, fifty bucks each was a great gift!  Statistics says that almost all families are in debt.  Many people have maxed out the use of at least two (2) of their credit cards, and are at the verge of having to file for bankruptcy to avoid jail.  How does a born again believer get themselves into such debt?  It's easy if we do not apply the Word of God to our lives, and exercise self control.  Solomon said that he that hath no rule (control) over his own spirit is like a city broken down and without walls (Proverbs 25:28).   We must control money and not let money control us.  Just because we have plastic (credit cards) we must not allow it to be used for the wrong reasons.  How much of your pay do you invest into God's kingdom?  Are you a supporter of the things of God, or does your pay all go for things that you want?   If you aren't investing anything into God's kingdom, you can't expect to receive any interest or dividends to help you out.  Paul said that if we have the Spirit of God within us, then we are no longer indebted to the flesh to live after the flesh.   But now, we must live after and according to the Spirit.  Therefore, if you allow the Spirit of God to lead you, you will find that you aren't going to be in debt, because the things of this world will no longer appeal to your spirit like the things of God dos.   

 

 

Here are a few debt trap warning signs.

 

1. You are living on credit

2. You pay your bills late

3. You are not a giver

4. You are not a saver

5. You dream of getting rich quick and living an extravagant lifestyle

6. You worry about money

7. You over spend, and over-draw your checking account

 

Remember, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away!

 

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

 

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

2011 January 29 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel: How often do you allow Jesus to pass you by without asking for His help?  Most people feel that they can take care of things by themselves, and so they don't care to ask Jesus for His help.  I've heard people say that Jesus is for those who are weak. Yeah, that is a true statement, but when I am weak then am I strong through Jesus.  I wonder just how many people were in the crowd that day as Jesus passed through Jericho, that had a need and never asked Him for His help.  But on the outskirts of town, the place where beggars would sit to ask for help and beg for alms, sat a blind man.  And hearing the commotion and multitude pass by, he asked what it meant.  Maybe he asked what festival was going on.  Maybe he asked, if there was a royal entrance taking place. Or maybe he asked if it was a legion of soldiers.  But they told him that Jesus of Nazareth was passing by.  Maybe he had heard about what Jesus had done for others.  Maybe he had heard that the Messiah would come.  And now he had an opportunity to exercise his faith to see if Jesus would help him, since no one else seemed concerned about his situation.  And so he cried out, "Jesus thy son of David, have mercy on me."  To his surprise, Jesus heard him and stopped to see what he wanted of Him.  Isn't it amazing that Jesus always hears faith and a sincere heart when they cry out to Him.  When Jesus asked Him what he wanted Him to do for him, the blind man said, "Lord, that I may receive my sight."  And Jesus said to Him, "Receive thy sight, thy faith have saved thee."  Friend, you can't afford to let Jesus pass you by.  You never know when you'll get another chance.

Sing: Pass me not, O gentle Savior, hear my humble cry; while on others thou are calling, do not pass me by.  Savior, Savior, hear my humble cry; while on others thou art calling, do not pass me by.

2011 January 28 - Morning Manna

So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. (Romans 8:8-15)

Today's Morsel: Isn't it amazing that my parents tried to teach me to save at such an early age.  We give children piggy banks and say, "Make sure to save your money in here."  How many of you still use a piggy bank?  My kids use to love Christmas around our house, because I would always open my piggy bank and let them have what was inside of it.  They each got half.  For kids, fifty bucks each was a great gift!  Statistics says that almost all families are in debt.  Many people have maxed out the use of at least two (2) of their credit cards, and are at the verge of having to file for bankruptcy to avoid jail.  How does a born again believer get themselves into such debt?  It's easy if we do not apply the Word of God to our lives, and exercise self control.  Solomon said that he that hath no rule (control) over his own spirit is like a city broken down and without walls (Proverbs 25:28).   We must control money and not let money control us.  Just because we have plastic (credit cards) we must not allow it to be used for the wrong reasons.  How much of your pay do you invest into God's kingdom?  Are you a supporter of the things of God, or does your pay all go for things that you want?   If you aren't investing anything into God's kingdom, you can't expect to receive any interest or dividends to help you out.  Paul said that if we have the Spirit of God within us, then we are no longer indebted to the flesh to live after the flesh.   But now, we must live after and according to the Spirit.  Therefore, if you allow the Spirit of God to lead you, you will find that you aren't going to be in debt, because the things of this world will no longer appeal to your spirit like the things of God dos.   

 

Here are a few debt trap warning signs.

1. You are living on credit

2. You pay your bills late

3. You are not a giver

4. You are not a saver

5. You dream of getting rich quick and living an extravagant lifestyle

6. You worry about money

7. You over spend, and over-draw your checking account

Remember, if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away!

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

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

2011 January 27 - Morning Manna

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. (Ephesians 2:8-9)

Today's Morsel:  We don't hear a lot of preaching about grace these days, do we?  Grace is God's unmerited love.  It is God's divine influence operating in our lives.  Grace is getting something that you didn't earn.  Paul said that it is by grace, through faith that we are saved.  When we exercise our faith in God and His Word, because without faith it is impossible to please God (Hebrews 11:6), He honors that faith.  For example, when the lepers asked Jesus to heal them, they were exercising their faith and God was pleased. When the Centurion told Jesus to just speak the word and his servant would be healed, he was exercising his faith and God was pleased.  And when we do things that please God, we receive for our faith, too.  You can't be saved without faith in God.  You aren't saved by grace alone, you are saved by grace through your faith in God.  Paul said that God has dealt to all of us the measure of faith (Romans 12:3).  What we do with that faith will determine if we become saved or not.  How's your faith?  Do you have trouble exercising your faith in God?  Do you believe that God can do anything?  Solomon said, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths"(Proverbs 3:5-6).  Faith without works is dead.  Dead means without life.  So if your faith is dead, then you don't have life and that means that pretty soon your well is going to run dry.

Sing:  I know I'm saved, and I'm so glad about it, I found the joy my spirit craved, it is so real that I could never doubt it, Oh praise the Lord I'm glad to  know I'm saved.

2011 January 26 - Morning Manna

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly together, thou, and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink. And Moses took the rod from before the LORD, as he commanded him. And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock? And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also. And the LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron, Because ye believed me not, to sanctify me in the eyes of the children of Israel, therefore ye shall not bring this congregation into the land which I have given them.
(Numbers 20:7-12)

Today's Morsel: What a price to pay for disobedience.  God told Moses to speak to the rock and it would give forth water; but Moses was so angry with the people because of their rebellion, murmuring and complaining, that he smote the rock with the rod instead of speaking to it the way that God had told him to do.  God had already prepared the rock to give forth water.  All Moses had to do was be obedient and speak to it.   When Jesus gives us instruction of things He wants us to do, we must follow it.   Never get to a point in your life that you allow what others are doing to cause you to take matters into your own hands.  For example, many people are depending on politicians to fix the country of  job loss, corruption, and indebtedness.  But government can't fix what sin and greed causes.  The Lord said, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land" (2 Chronicles 7:14).  If we want our land to be what it was before, it's going to take humility among God's people, along with prayer and intercession for the land.  That's speaking to the Rock, not smiting it.

Sing:  Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done, in earth, as it is in heaven.  Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.  And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil; for Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever and ever, Amen.

2011 January 25 - Morning Manna

And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.
(Genesis 4:1-7)

Today's Morsel:  The Lord told Cain that sin wanted him, but he must rule over it.  We must take God's instruction to Cain to heart.  Sin wants you, but you must rule over it.  Satan, the originator of sin, wants you and many are giving in to him.  Jesus told Peter, "Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak" (Matthew 26:41).  If we aren't alert and on guard, sin will overtake us and we will become a slave to it.  Many people have fallen for the trap of sin and now they can't get away. Until they pull that sting of death out of themselves, they are going to remain hooked and under satan's  control.   Paul said,  "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace. What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:1-23).

 

Sin shall not have dominion over you, you belong to Jesus Christ, not Satan.

Sing:  I command you, Satan, in the name of the Lord to pick up your weapons and flee, for God had given me authority, to walk all over thee.

2011 January 24 - Morning Manna

And he said unto them,  Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.  He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16:15-18).

Today's Morsel:  There is nothing like hearing the Gospel preached in spirit and in truth.  The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. This Gospel of Jesus Christ sets the captives free, breaks chains that have people bound, mends broken hearts, and saves people from their trespasses and sins.  When people really apply this Gospel to their lives, it makes a difference.  When there is a complete understanding of  what the Gospel is,  it gives knowledge on how one should live, move, and exist.  No Christian should ever have a dull and boring lifestyle.  I don't care how we feel or how much pain is in our body, there should still be joy unspeakable and full of glory in  our life.  When  people stop serving God, leave the church, and head back into the world, it's because they don't have an understanding of the Gospel.  The Gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And when people don't understand why Jesus did what He did for them, there is no love for Him.  Paul said that the love of God constraineth us.....that if one died for all, then were all dead (2 Corinthians 5:14).  We were all dead in our sins, but Jesus gave His life so that we could live.  He became our offering for sin and if that isn't worth telling others about, then what is?

 

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

2011 January 22 - Morning Manna

And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead. And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him,  Go, and do thou likewise. (Luke 10:30-37)

Today's Morsel:  Placing and purchasing things on credit seems to be the way the world system is heading these days.  I believe that every family has at least one credit card, and maybe more.  When you don't have the money on hand, just charge it and pay a little bit here and a little bit there. Put it on my account and I'll pay it, they say.  Most people don't realize that when you pay the little bit, it's going towards the interest, and you never get it paid off, and so you are servant to the lender, which is what Solomon warned us of.

 

When Jesus told the parable of the good Samaritan, He said that the man helped one who was hurt.  But because he didn't have enough to leave with the inn keeper, he said, put it on my account and I'll pay you when I come again.  We see a few good qualities about this man.  First, the Samaritan had a good reputation within his community.  Second, He had proven to others that he could be trusted.  Thirdly, he showed great promise to pay by putting something up front.  Fourth, he allows brotherly love to continue and he was not afraid to entertain and help a strangers.  Fifth, he showed us the principle of doing unto others as you would have them do unto you.   How's your reputation in your community?  Can you be trusted?  Is your word your bond?   Do people know that you will pay when you say that you will, or do you have to keep getting notices of  the debt as a reminder to pay what you owe?  Even though we are not of this world, we live in this world, and we are subject to its system.  Therefore, when it comes to our moral and rightful obligations to pay our debts, we must follow through.  As Paul said,  "Let not then your good be evil spoken of' (Romans 14:16).

Sing:  He paid a debt He did not owe, I owed a debt I could not pay, I needed someone, to wash my sins away.  And now I sing a brand new song, Amazing Grace, for Jesus paid a debt, that I could never pay!

2011 January 21 - Morning Manna

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Today's Morsel: Are you in Christ or out of Christ?  If your focus in on the past, you are probably out.  If your desires are for riches, fame and glory, you are probably out.  If your hopes are obtaining some position, or a better car, home, or location, you are probably out.  If your mind is often drawn to politics, sports, or worldly entertainment, amusement, and gadgets, you are probably out.  But on the other hand, if your focus is looking ahead to what new thing God is going to do in and through you, you're probably in.  If your discussion oftentimes lead you to talk about or write about Jesus, you're probably in.  If heaven is your hope, dream, desire, and want, you are probably in.  To be in Christ is to have put on Christ (Galatians 3:27).  It's to be free from continual worry, terror, and unrest.  It is to be a vessel fit for the Master's use.  It's being willing to go wherever and to do whatever Jesus asks of you.  Paul said that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature. Therefore, you can't be the same as you were before.  You are new.  When you are new, you realize what you use to be, and that you've been given another opportunity to be what God intended for you to be when He created you.  But because of sin in our lives, we became defiled.  But when we repented of our sins and were baptized in His name, His blood cleansed us from our sins and we became new creatures.  And now we are in Christ and old things are gone.  So until one obeys Peters instructions, "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 2:38), they are not yet in.  Paul also lets us know why we need the Spirit of Christ in us,  "But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his" (Romans 8:9).  In or out, which are you?

 

Sing: He's changing me! My Blessed Savior, I'm not the same person that I use to be. Well it's been slow going, but there's a knowing, that someday perfect I will be.

2011 January 20 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them,  Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. (Luke 17:11-19)

Today's Morsel:  When we look through scriptures, we see that many people were willing to just let Jesus pass them by without asking Him for His help in their condition and their situations.  But on the other hand, we see those who did cry out to Jesus, and Jesus didn't disappoint them.  Talk about free medical care!  The great physician was on hand and they let Him walk away. Talk about free advice from a therapist.  The great counselor was there for them, and they didn't even ask Him for any advice.  And it hasn't changed.  Jesus said, "You have not because you ask not."  I'm not saying you have to or need to ask Him for every little thing you may want, or to have Him remove every little toe ache, but we do need to get into the habit of taking our need to Him.  The writers would have never told us to cast all of our cares upon Him, and that God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus, and that when we are weary to come to Him, if God didn't want them to tell us and if He didn't mean it.  Sometimes we allow to many opportunities to pass us by.  These ten lepers were outcasts, and somehow they knew that Jesus could fix their dilemma and condition.  So they called out to Him when He was passing by.  They said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.  And when He saw them, He said to them,  Go shew yourselves unto the priests.  And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. They could have let Him pass and said nothing, but their need was greater than their pride and so they spoke up.  What about you?  Are you letting your opportunity pass you by?

Sing:  Pass me not O' gentle Savior, hear my humble cry; while on others Thou are calling, do not pass me by.

Savior, Savior, hear my humble cry; while on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by.

2011 January 19 - Morning Manna

And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. (Revelation 21:1-4)

Today's Morsel:  Whether we know it or not and even though many may not display it, inside each of us is that spirit of compassion.  There are those times that we see what happens, such as disasters, murder, shooting, robbery, etc., and it grips our heart strings and we cry.  Crying doesn't mean that you are weak.  I believe that crying is the way that God has made us to express our inner feelings.  In many ways, crying is a cleansing.  The Bible says that Jesus wept (John 11:35), and we are created in His image.  Therefore, it isn't a bad thing to cry.  Sometimes, our crying is tears of joy, while other times, they are tears of sadness.  But John lets us know that one day, those of us who will reign forever with Jesus, will have all of our tears wiped away.  There will be no tears of sadness, loneliness, or pain, for those former things will all be passed away.  Are you looking for that day.

Sing: No tears in heaven, no crying in glory; all God's children will be happy, don't you see.  No pain, no sorrow, no more worrying about tomorrow, no tears in heaven for you and me.

2011 January 18 - Morning Manna

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength (Isaiah 26:3-4).

 

Today's Morsel: Telescopes are some neat gadgets. This device makes distant objects appear nearer and larger by means of compound lenses or concave mirrors. Back in the days of 110 film cameras, which many of you probably don't remember, when I would be sightseeing and come upon a site that had a telescope, I would put my 110 camera lens right up against the telescope lens and take a far away picture.  I was often surprised at the pictures that I got back. Some were very clear and beautiful.  Jesus said, "If our eye be single, the whole body will be full of light."  In other words, if we keep our focus upon Him, as He is the light, our body would be full of light. When our focus is on Jesus, we can see what we are looking for and where we are heading.  Isaiah said that He will keep him in perfect peaces whose mind is stayed on Him.  Do you have peace of mind?  I've heard many people say, "I think I'm losing my mind."  It's hard to lose your mind when it is stayed on Jesus. Where is your focus?  Is it on Jesus, or are you looking elsewhere for your peace?  Because He is the Prince of Peace, He is able to keep you in prefect peace. Prefect peace is peace without worry. Peace without cares. Peace without bothersome times.  It is tranquility.  It i's calmness.  As one writer wrote, "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference."   He said, "God grant me the peace to accept the things I cannot change."  When we can't change our situation, if our  focus is on Jesus, we will retain peace during it all.  Paul said, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:6-7).  Stay focused!

Sing:  I know the peace speaker, I know Him by name, I know the peace speaker, He controls and winds and rain; when He says, peace be still, it has to obey, I know the peace speaker, yes I know Him by name.

2011 January 17 - Morning Manna

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:31-32)

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

Today's Morsel:  Freedom! What comes to your mind when you hear that word?  Whether many know it or not, they, like some of the children of Israel, were born into slavery.  Paul said, by one man (Adam) disobedience made many sinners, but by one man's (Jesus Christ) obedience, were many made righteous.  When we are slaves to sin, we have no freedom.  As Solomon said, "The ways of a transgressor is hard."  It isn't easy being a sinner.  Don't let the world fool you.  Sinning in hard business.  You have to cheat, lie, steal, deceive, and compromise your integrity to be a sinner.  When you are a sinner you have to be on the lookout for who is going to backstab you at every corner. There isn't any freedom in this way of life.   But Solomon also said that a just man is satisfied from himself.  In other words when I am free from me, I'm free.  And that's what Jesus came to do, to make me free.

In August 1963, Dr. Martin Luther King, stood on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and spoke about bringing about justices for all. At the end of his famous, "I have a dream speech," he concluded with these words, "When we let freedom ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Are you free?

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

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!

2011 January 15 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:  Snow!  The beautiful white powdery stuff that comes down one flake at a time that seems like nothing much is happening when it first starts, but within a few hours you can have as much as 10 to 15 inches on the ground before you.  Snow can make it impossible to travel.  Snow can make roadways impassable.  It can ground airplanes and cause people to be stranded and snowbound.  And it all begins with just one flake on another.  The Lord asked Job, "Hast thou entered into the treasures of the snow?" There is something inside of snow.  Purity.  Snow represents holiness.  Holiness makes a person pure and clean.

Paul said, "And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ: From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love" (Ephesians 4:11-16).  When saints of God come together in one mind and one accord, we become compacted together and a force to be reckoned with.  The devil fears when saints are compacted together.  The whole body must be fitly joined together in doctrine and truth.  We all come one at a time, but then each one reaches one, and before you know, we are compacted as a mighty army of God and ready for battle.  The enemy of the soul can't defeat a united body of Christ.   Jesus chose twelve, but He began one at a time.  And after three years, multitudes were following Him.  Always remember, "Unity" begins with the letters UNI.  When we come together in Christ, we become one the same as a massive snow fall and it is beautiful in God sights.

Sing:  When the redeemed are gathering in , washed like snow, and free from all sin, how we will shout and how we will sing, when the redeemed are gathering in.

2011 January 14 - Morning Manna

And there were certain Greeks among them that came up to worship at the feast: The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Bethsaida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see Jesus. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew: and again Andrew and Philip tell Jesus. And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come, that the Son of man should be glorified
(John 12:20-23).

Today's Morsel: When is the last time you went to church looking for Jesus?  Did you go to church to see Him or someone else?  Are you one of those that just checks the block to say, "Well, I went to church this week", or do you go to see Jesus?  Some folk go to church just to see other people.  Maybe a boy friend or girl friend. Or maybe they are looking for a future spouse.  Their motive isn't Jesus, but someone or something else.  The scripture says that there were certain Greeks that came to worship and they told Philip, "Sir, we would see Jesus."  I don't know about you, but when I go to church, I'm like these Greeks, I want to see Jesus.  I want to see the Spirit moving in the place.  I want to see people being filled with the Holy Ghost.  I want to see people being baptized in His name. I want to hear people talking about what Jesus has done for them in their lives.  I really only want to see Jesus.  I don't care what people are wearing nor who the preacher is, as long as he's making it plain where I can see Jesus. 

 

As the story is told of a visiting minister who was preaching at an old southern church.  He was preaching his heart out, and he went on and on for almost an hour, but never made mention of Jesus. So finally, and elderly lady, who could take it no more, stood up and pointed her finger towards the minister, and with a loud voice shouted, "Get Him up now!"  In other words, Jesus isn't dead so start talking about Him and let us see Him.

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

2011 January 13 - Morning Manna

But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.
(Proverbs 4:18).

Today's Morsel:  The other day, I was focusing on the word "just".   Since it seems to have evaded many, I wanted to see exactly what it meant in the Greek.  The Greek word for just is "tsad-deek", which means lawful and righteous.  It is also the root word for "justification" and "justices".  Paul said that we should think on things that are just (Philippians 4:8).  Solomon said that a just man (lawful and righteous) walketh in his integrity: his children are blessed after him (Proverbs 20:7).  He further states that a just man is satisfied from himself (Proverbs 14:14), and then he says that the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day.  Because God is a righteous God, He wants us, His children, to be just.  Jesus said that we are the light of the world, a city set on a hill that cannot be hidden (Matthew 5:14).  Because we are lights set on a hill, we must now show forth the praise of Him that has called us out of darkness into his marvelous light.  Our lives must reflect Christ, who is the light of the world.  The psalmist said, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path"(Psalms 119:105).  When we understand that Jesus is the Word (John 1:1), we understand who is shining in and through us and why our path is bright.  In order to be just, you have to live according to the Word of God.  We must be doers of the Word.  And when we are doers of His Word, and continue to add the Word of God daily to our faith, it keeps showing us the way to that perfect day; that day that Jesus will return for His church.  Are you shining for Jesus? Make sure your light doesn't go out or you may stumble.

Sing:  This little light of mind, I'm gonna let it shine.  This little light of mind, I'm gonna let it shine.  This is light of mind, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let is shine, let it shine.

2011 January 12 - Morning Manna

"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:1-2).

Today's Morsel: When I took carpentry in high school, our teacher developed a project by taking all the old school desks and having us refurbish them for the younger elementary classes.  If you've ever did anything like that, you know that it's a lot of hard work.  Putting on rubber gloves, pouring and mixing chemicals to break down the old paint and varnish, scraping off old coats of paint, sanding down the desks afterwards, and then repainting and re-varnishing them takes awhile to have a good completed project.  Paul said, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:1-2).  Restoration isn't an easy task.  It takes time and hard work to restore a relationship.  Pastor David Jeremiah said, "Approaching, talking, confessing, forgiving, it's not easy.  In order to restore a relationship to its rightful state, resentment, hurt, and distrust have to be removed."  If you want to be restored to your rightful state, you have to remove somethings from your life.  Paul said that God has given to us the ministry and word of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:17-18).  God reconciled us to himself by Christ Jesus, and now we have the Gospel to reconcile others to Him and back to their rightful state.  Restoration always begin with wanting to see a change. 

Sing: Something beauty, something good, all my confusion, Jesus understood; all I had to offer Him, was brokenness and strife; but He made something, beautiful out of my life.

2011 January 11 - Morning Manna

For we know him that hath said, Vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord. And again, The Lord shall judge his people. It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:30-31)

Today's Morsel:  Why, when others do us wrong, do we feel that we have to get even?  Aren't we told "let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you" (Ephesians 4:31-32).  There are certain things that belong to God, that He hasn't given them to anyone else.  David said, "God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God.  Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work" (Psalms 62:11-12).  So we see that God retained His power and mercy.  Peter told Simon, Thy money perish with thee for you thought you could buy the Holy Ghost with money(my wording) Acts 8:20.  Peter said, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).  Therefore, salvation belongs to God.  David again said, "The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein" (Psalms 24:1).  Maybe someone can explain to me why we have to pay for water, electric, and a license to fish and hunt.  We can see that God owns everything!   The Lord told Moses that vengeance belongs to Him (Deuteronomy 32:35).  Therefore, if it belongs to God, we don't own it, and we can't use it, unless He gives it to us to use.  And I don't read anywhere in scripture that He's given it to you, so you can't use it.   Therefore, "Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men. If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men. Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord. Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good" (Romans 12:17-21).  The next time that  someone does you wrong, and you want to get even, you can't do it because that would be becoming vengeful, and that belongs to God.  So next time you'll have to use forgiveness.  That's the only way you can resolve your differences, because, vengeance belong to God.

Sing: S how me Your ways, that I may walk with You.  Show me Your ways  I put my hope in You.

Chorus: The cry of my heart is to love You more, to live with the touch of Your hand.  Stronger each day, show me Your ways.

2011 January 10 - Morning Manna

This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us. (1 John 1:5-10)

Today's Morsel: Text messaging seems to be the big thing these days.  I was reading in the paper about a trolley car operator that ran into another trolley car and people were hurt, because he was texting his girl friend while driving.  Sometimes it's annoying when my cell phone tells me I've got a text message.  But I guess that's technology and I'm the one who signed up for it; I must be losing my mind.

In the old days, in the military during battles,  men were used as runners. Their job was to get a message from one commander to the other across the battlefield.  The message, once received by the commander, could make the difference in the outcome of the battle being fought.  Whether we like it or not, we are in a spiritual  battle and we need to heed the message.  John was a runner for Jesus Christ, our Commander and Chief.  And he said, "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."   The outcome of the fight you are in is going to be depended on how you apply the message you've just received.  Not only is your life at stake, but those you are leading and the others who are on your right and left flanks are at stake, too.  This message can cause you to lose your family, or lose your friends.  It can cause you to lose your church, or lose your ministry.  It's all predicated on how you apply it.  But if applied swiftly and  correctly, victory is always imminent.

Sing:  What a fellowship, what a joy divine, leaning on the everlasting arms; what a blessedness, what a peace is mine, leaning on the everlasting arms.

Leaning, leaning, safe and secure from all alarm, leaning, leaning, leaning on the everlasting arms.

2011 January 8 - Morning Manna

A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it. And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture. And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried,  He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be? And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand. Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience. (Luke 8:5-15).

Today's Morsel:  The parable of the sower touches just about everyone's life.  Jesus said that a sower went forth to sow seed.  The sower is born again believers.  We have been commissioned to go preach the Gospel (Mark 16:15-18). The seed is the word of God.  And the ground is the heart of man.  How many times have you shared Jesus with others and nothing happens or the person looks at you like you are from another planet?  This is because we oftentimes do not do anything to break up the fallow ground, or the heart of man, before we share the Gospel with them.  Many peoples' hearts are as hard as rocks, because they have been hurt, abused, lied to, misused, or cheated on.  Therefore, the first step is to break up the fallow ground.  Dirt is always softened with water.  The Holy Ghost in you is living water.  Therefore, you must use some of it to soften the ground before you can plant the seed (the Word).  The love, compassion, and kindness you show, can prepare the heart for the Word.  Offering words of encouragement, buying lunch, or offering to help whenever you can, can work wonders.  As Paul said, "And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will" (2 Timothy 2:24-26).  Remember, your goal is to sow the seed in good ground so that it will bring forth fruit and be meet for the masters use.  Never plant if the ground isn't ready.  You will become frustrated and lose your joy.

Sing:  Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness, sowing in the noontide and the dewy eve; waiting for the harvest, and the time of reaping, we shall come rejoicing, bring in the sheaves.

Bringing in the sheaves, bringing in the sheaves, we shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.

2011 January 7 - Morning Manna

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.  Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.
(John 15:13-15)

Today's Morsel:  How many people do you know that when you introduce them to others you begin by saying, "Let me introduce you to my friend, ________?"  Why do we have so few real friends?  Solomon said that a man that would have friends, must show himself friendly.  Are our friends few because of  we ourselves?  Why don't we go out of our way to make more friends?  Are we afraid of being let down?  True friendship begins with us.  Even if others hurt us, we must learn to practice being friendly.  Jesus said to His disciples, "I have called you friends."  What does that mean to you? How do you translate that? What did Jesus do to make them as well as us His friend?  He was willing to give His life for us, His friends.  What do you do to make others your friend.  Here are a few ways to recognize true friendship.  First, friends will comfort and support you when trouble or disaster shows up in your life.  Second, friends are devoted to you, they are loyal and willing to change their plans just for you. Third, friends love you no matter the situation or what you have done.  Through thick and thin they are still there.  Fourth, friends will speak constructively - even when it hurts.  And finally, friends will help you.  "A friend is a person who knows all about you, and still likes you." Elbert Hubbard.  I wonder if that's why they say a dog is a man's best friend!

 

Sing: What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!  What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry
everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share? Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? Precious Savior, still our refuge; take it to the Lord in prayer.  Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! In his arms he'll take and shield thee; thou wilt find a solace there.

2011 January 6 - Morning Manna

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. (Romans 1:16-17)

  

Today's Morsel: Many people say that they are born again Christians.  And many state that they love the Lord and that they would do anything for Him.  But many of those same so-called Christians are ashamed of the gospel.  The Gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Once it is applied to our lives, others must be able to see Christ in us.  No matter where we are and where we go, God's character should be visible within us.  Paul said that he was not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ because it was the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes.  Does everyone you work around and with know that you are a born again Christian?  How many people are you working with that you know they are having family and personal issues, and yet you aren't doing anything about it?  You see, to be born again is to be filled with God's Spirit and baptized in His name.  When His Spirit is in us, we have been anointed to preach the gospel to the poor, heal the broken-hearted, preach deliverance to the captives, to set at liberty them that are bruised, and to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.  If you don't share Christ with somebody each day, and that can includes your family, you are ashamed of the Gospel.

Sing: We are not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of salvation; to everyone, to everyone that believes it.  And it's to everyone; to everyone that receives it, we shall have everlasting life.

2011 January 5 - Morning Manna

For God is my King of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth. (Psalms 74:12).

Today's Morsel:. The Psalmist said that God is my King of old.  The writer of Hebrews said "For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually" Hebrews 7:1-3). Melchisedec was the King that met Abraham when He returned from battle, "And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God" (Genesis 14:18).  But notice, Melchisedec is first translated as King of righteousness and King of Peace.  And Jesus was made a High priest forever after the order of Melchisedec (Hebrews 6:20).  Jesus is the God of righteousness and the God of peace. When we understand that it was the King's job to ensure that the people under him remained safe, we can understand why Jesus, who is the King of Kings and Lord of Lord, provides us with salvation in the earth.  As the Psalmist again said, "The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; Remember all thy offerings, and accept thy burnt sacrifice; Selah. Grant thee according to thine own heart, and fulfil all thy counsel. We will rejoice in thy salvation, and in the name of our God we will set up our banners: the LORD fulfil all thy petitions. Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God" (Psalms 20:1-7). Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name among heaven given unto men whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12).

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

2011 January 4 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:  What treasures have you laid up in heaven?  Just what do you own in heaven?  If we were to check closely, we would realize that the only thing we have in heaven is Jesus, as He owns everything else.  If He's our desire, then that will be where our hearts are.  Heaven is His home and the earth is His footstool.  Our hopes and desires should be to be where He is.  Peter said, "But, beloved, be not ignorant of this one thing, that one day is with the Lord as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day.... Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness" (2 Peter 3:8&13).  Peter was a man whose goal was heaven.  What about you?  Do you want to go where your heart and hopes are?  Jesus said that where your treasures are, there will your heart be also.  Our number one desire, whether in heaven or on the earth, should be Jesus.  If we keep Him at the center of our hearts and minds, everything else will work out just fine.

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

Chorus: God is, God is, God is, God is; God is my all in all.

2011 January 3 - Morning Manna

I will bless the LORD, who hath given me counsel: my reins also instruct me in the night seasons. I have set the LORD always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved. Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. (Psalms 16:7-11)

Today's Morsel:  If someone were to ask you where you live, would it be hard for you to give them the directions to your house?  You would be surprised at the number of people who drive to their homes each day, but still don't know how to tell someone how to get there.  They never look at the landmarks or identifiable constructions to be able to use as marker to help people find their way.  I had one lady say to me, "Do you have a GPS? Just put it in and it will bring you here."  I just laughed and said to myself, "Can't believe she doesn't know how to tell me the directions."  If someone is looking for joy, can you tell them how to find it?   Do you know where joy dwells?  David said, "In his presence is fullness of joy and at His right hand there are pleasures for evermore."  Joy dwells in the presence of Jesus.  So if you want to find joy, all you have to do is locate Jesus and you should find joy there too. Where is Jesus, He's suppose to be in your heart.

Sing:  I have found the joy no tongue can tell, How its waves of glory roll!  It is like a great over flowing well, springing up within my soul.

It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory, full of glory,  It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, Oh, the half has never yet been told.

2011 January 1 - Morning Manna

When Jesus came into the coasts of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am? And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am
(Matthew 16:13-15)?

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure (1 John 3:1-3).

  

Today's Morsel:  What are your goals for this year?  I know that many people will set out to do many things, but will not accomplish them because of one reason or another.  They will find excuses as to why they didn't get it done by the end of the year.  All spiritual accomplishments in your life will happen if you know two things.  First:  Who Jesus is, and second:  Who you are in Him.  Everything in a Christian's life flows from your knowledge of these two questions.  When we understand who Jesus truly is, it moves us into a more personal relationship with Him.  It enhances our worship, as worship is acknowledging Him for who He is.  And it purifies our praise, as we can see more clearly the things He is doing and has done for us.  Moses received his understanding at the burning bush; Job, received his when he went through his afflictions; Isaiah received his when King Uzziah died; Paul received his understanding on the road to Damascus (Acts 9); Peter received his when he was told to launch out into the deep and let down his net for another draught (Luke 5:4); and I received mined in a cold, German, Adolph Hitler Officers Club, which had been turned into a church.  Jesus said that truth shall make you free (John 8:32).  As Jesus He 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 we believe on Him as the Scriptures have said, we will not only see Who He is, but also who we are in Him.  Then out of our belly's shall flow rivers of living waters.

 

SING:  I've got a river of life flowing out of me, it makes the lame to walk and the blind to see.  It opens prison doors, sets the captive free.  I've got a river of life flowing out of me.

 

Spring up, oh well, within my soul.  Spring up, oh well, and make me whole.  Spring up, oh well, and give to me, that life abundantly.