2011 August 31 - Morning Manna

I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:

(Philippians 1:3-6)

 Today's Morsel: Over my 26 years of being saved, I have come to know quite a few folks.  My wife always tells me, you know so many people.  I seem to have the ability to remember people from years gone by and I pray that I never lose that ability.  And in so many ways, I feel as Paul, I thank my God upon every remembrance of you.  And I remember you in prayer, making request with joy.  Many of these people have made a difference in my life.  Many times we don't know who God will bring into our lives, at what point and for what purpose.  But He does and one day we will understand why He did what He did.  I always try to give people my undivided attention, because I don't know what God's purpose is in having us meet.  So let me encourage you today, I am confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.  So if you are one of those whom I have encountered in my life, I am so thankful for you and I want to remind you that God loves you more than you will ever know.

Sing:  If we never meet again, on this earth, my blessed friend, but if to God we have been true, and you live above all sin, then for us, there will be a greeting, for there's going to be a meeting, I'llsee you in the rapture some sweet day. 

2011 August 30 - Morning Manna

In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes. And there was a young man out of Bethlehemjudah of the family of Judah, who was a Levite, and he sojourned there. (Judges 17:6-7)

Today's Morsel: It seems as though we have reverted back to those times when every man does that which is right in his own eyes.  Everything seems to be out of control and no one seems to know what to do. And so everyone is choosing their own way.  Solomon said, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12).  If there has ever been a time that we need to know what we are doing and where we are heading, it is now.   We must understand that God's ways aren't ours and neither His thoughts our thoughts.  If our way isn't in line with what God requires of us, pretty soon God will take action the same as He did with the children of Israel.  When man starts doing and going their own way, he is heading for destruction.  Every way of a man is right in his own heart, but God weighs the spirit.  Therefore, we must choose our ways carefully and ensure that they are align with God's desire for our lives.  Don't let your mind lead you where the Holy Ghost won't keep you.  As the Lord admonishes us through Moses: "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: That thou mayest love the LORD thy God, and that thou mayest obey his voice, and that thou mayest cleave unto him: for he is thy life, and the length of thy days: that thou mayest dwell in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give them" (Deuteronomy 30:19-20).

  

Sing: Lead me Lord, I will follow! Lead me Lord, I will go! You have called me and I will answer, lead me Lord I will go.

2011 August 29 - Morning Manna

Now it came to pass, as they went, that he entered into a certain village: and a certain woman named Martha received him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at Jesus' feet, and heard his word. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me. And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her. (Luke 10:38-42)

Today's Morsel: Someone wrote a book of having a Mary's heart in a Martha's world.  In other words, don't let all the things you have to do distract you from spending time with Jesus. My wife often says that if Mary would have helped Martha get the work done, then they both would have been able to enjoy time with Jesus!  It is said that in the church, 80% of the work is done by 10% of the people.  Many people seem to be so distracted by the things they have to do, that they don't seem to have time for Jesus.  The enemy seems to have inundated them with so much work, that  Jesus isn't in the priority line anymore.  Backsliding just doesn't start with walking away from the church.  It starts when our priorities are not in order.  It has been stated that families begin to fragment as soon as work and other things take first place in a person's life or a family's home above Jesus.  It has also been stated that Jesus began the family before He did the church. Thus, our first priority is Jesus and the next is our family and then the church.  If they aren't in order, nothing else will be in order.  Is your name Martha?  Is Jesus speaking to you when He says, "Thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful."  Do you want to spend time with Jesus, but work and other things have taken all of your time? Let me encourage you. All the work you do and all the money you make in the world, can never replace the loss of your family or your salvation.  So why not stop killing yourself and get yourself as close to Jesus as you can.  As Ford Motor's says, "Quality is job one."  Jesus is quality and He must be your first priority.

Sing: I am thine O' Lord, I have heard Thy voice, and it told Thy love to me; but I long to rise in the arms of faith, and be closer drawn to Thee.

Draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, to the cross where Thou hast died; draw me nearer, nearer blessed Lord, to Thy precious bleeding side.

2011 August 27 - Morning Manna

Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: (Philippians 2:12-14).

Today's Morsel: Why does it seem as though complaining has taken over the church?  It seems as though saints are murmuring and complaining about everything.  We don't have enough rain, or it's too much rain.  We have to much snow.  The weather is too cold or too hot.  The food isn't right and doesn't taste good.  The economy is bad.  How did we let this evil spirit of complaining invade our lives?  Why can't we go to church without complaining?  Aren't we taught to cast all our cares upon the Lord?  Aren't we taught to be careful for nothing, but in everything with prayer and supplication to let our request be made known unto God?  Aren't we taught that if we complain, we become overwhelmed?  Aren't we taught that God knows the things we have need of before we ask Him?  So why all the murmuring and complaining in the church?  Paul said that we should do all things without murmurings and disputings.  Why are so many opposed to what God is doing?  Shouldn't we get into the habit as Paul said, "In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).  I wonder what God would do if we thanked Him for the weather that He sends our way?  Remember, God's ways aren't ours nor is His thoughts our thoughts.  I am of a firm belief that God knows all things and that all things do work for our good if we love God and keep His commandments.  I don't complain about the snow, because I knew when I moved to Wisconsin it was going to come and we are going to get a lot of it.  That's why I brought a snow thrower and  snow shovels.  When it comes and I'm out shoveling, I just remember what the Lord asked Job, "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).  Remember, we are in a warfare, so let go of the murmuring and complaining and thank God in and for all things.

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

2011 August 26 - Morning Manna

And the word of Samuel came to all Israel. Now Israel went out against the Philistines to battle, and pitched beside Ebenezer: and the Philistines pitched in Aphek. And the Philistines put themselves in array against Israel: and when they joined battle, Israel was smitten before the Philistines: and they slew of the army in the field about four thousand men. And when the people were come into the camp, the elders of Israel said, Wherefore hath the LORD smitten us to day before the Philistines? Let us fetch the ark of the covenant of the LORD out of Shiloh unto us, that, when it cometh among us, it may save us out of the hand of our enemies. So the people sent to Shiloh, that they might bring from thence the ark of the covenant of the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth between the cherubims: and the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, were there with the ark of the covenant of God. And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again. And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, What meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the LORD was come into the camp.
(1 Samuel 4:1-6)

Today's Morsel:  I was once watching Memorex advertise the quality of their CD's by having Ella Fitzgerald, a jazz singer,  record on one of them.  They played the CD with a wine glass before the speakers and it caused the glass to break.  What caused them to break?  Was it the quality of the CD or the sound?  It has been stated that sound has to have a source for it to travel through called a medium.  A medium such as air, water, glass or metal.  As long as these mediums are available, sound will travel through them.  But if we remove the medium, then there is no sound.  Satan is known as the prince and the power of the air. (Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience. Ephesians 2:2)  So if we remove this airbag, then we can't hear his sound in our ears.  As this is why we are commanded in scripture to shout?  David said that we should shout unto God with a voice of triumph.  What does shouting do?  It breaks the molecules.  It splits air.  It sends out waves that breaks the air.   Satan doesn't like you to shout out the name of Jesus.  It's sends a shock wave through his kingdom.  When the  children of Israel received the Ark into the camp, they began shouting.  And when the Philistines heard the noise of the shout, they said, 'What meaneth the noise of this great shout in the camp of the Hebrews? And they understood that the ark of the LORD was come into the camp.'  It immediately instilled fear in them.  James said,  "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble" (James 2:19).  So every time your shout of the name of Jesus, hell trembles.  Mark records, "And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house"(Mark 2:1).  When Jesus is present, there should always be lots of noise.  When they were filled with the Holy Ghost in the upper room on the day of Pentecost, scripture says, "Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language" (Acts 2:6). Notice, there was noise that Jesus was in the house.  If Jesus is in the house, than the gifts of the Spirit should be in operation in the house.  Is anyone speaking in tongues in your church?  Are there any testimonies of what the Lord has done?  Is the preacher on fire with the Holy Ghost?  Is there shouting, running, leaping, and praising God?  If you want to get Satan out, then shout.

Sing:  Triumphant in battle, we are victorious, God is most high, over all the earth; Satan's defeated, Jesus has conquered, the enemy is under my feet.

So I will shout with a voice of triumph, shout with a voice of praise; Shout with a voice of triumph, shout with a voice of praise, shout unto God for the victory, Hey! Hey! Give the Lord a shout of praise.

2011 August 25 - Morning Manna

And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the LORD, mine horn is exalted in the LORD: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation. There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God. (1 Samuel 2:1-2)

Today's Morsel: Hanna said, "There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God."  David said, "The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence. I will call on the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies. .....For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God?" (2 Samuel 22:2-4;32).   Paul informed the church at Corinth, "Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ" (1 Corinthians 10:1-4).  Hearken unto me, O house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, which are borne by me from the belly, which are carried from the womb: And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you. To whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be like?... Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is none else; I am God, and there is none like me, Declaring the end from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all my pleasure" (Isaiah 46:3-5; 9-10).  There is nobody like My Jesus.  Full of mercy and compassion.  A comforter, healer, deliverer, protector, a strong tower, and a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.  There is none like Him.  Who can compare to Him or would even dare?  Like Hanna, my heart rejoices in the Lord who is the rock of my salvation.

Sing: Who is like the Lord, nobody.  Who is like the Lord, no, no, no, no, no, nobody.  Lord we declare, who can compare, who would even dare; there is no one like You.

2011 August 24 - Morning Manna

Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. (Colossians 2:8-9)

Today's Morsel: If someone were to ask you, "Is Jesus in the Godhead or is the Godhead in Jesus," what would your reply be?  When we say "Godhead" we are referring to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Jesus asked His disciples, "Who do men say that I the son of man am?"  Then He went on and asked them, "But who do you say that I am?"  There are many questions that surround people's thoughts as to who Jesus really was.  Even when He was on the earth, many were confounded by the things they saw Him do and say.  Nicodemus, a religious leader, was so concerned that he went to Him to asked Him questions.  They even tried to catch Him in trickery with scripture.  But each time, they were confounded by His reply and understanding of the scriptures.  When we become true born again believers, dominations are set aside for truth and the desire for even more truth. The enemy of your soul isn't too concerned about defeating you if you don't know truth.  But he becomes very concerned when you know truth and you keep striving and seeking for more truth.  He knows that the truth makes men free.  Everything in a born again believer's life flows from their true understanding of who Jesus Christ truly was and is.  If you never gain or obtain the knowledge and understanding as to who Jesus was and is, you will be lacking.  You can attend church all you want, be the best person that you could ever be, give all your goods and possessions to feed the poor, dress the best that you have ever dressed, sing the best you could ever sing, but until you have the knowledge of truth, you still will not be free from yourself and the enemy will defeat you before you cross the finish line.  "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory"(1 Timothy 3:16).

Sing: It's all in Him! It's all in Him! The fullness of the Godhead, it's all in Him! It's all in Him! It's all in Him! The Mighty God is Jesus, and it's all in Him!

2011 August 23 - Morning Manna

For every battle of the warrior is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood; but this shall be with burning and fuel of fire. (Isaiah 9:5)

Today's Morsel: In the Marine Corps and Navy, the bathrooms are often referred to as "The Head."  Once one female drill instructor heard her new Marine recruits making a lot of noise in the bathroom.  As most drill instructors like to inflect fear into their new recruits, she screamed at the top of her lungs as drill instructors often do,  "Who's that making noise in my head?"

Is it time for you to improve your armor?  When is the last time you took a strong look at your armor?  Can you identify each piece and how it is to be worn?  How many dents are in your armor from close combat?  How many of your buckles have been broken off? Are you repairing the damaged pieces?  Does it seem as though a lot of strange noises have been coming your way lately?  Are your thoughts becoming cloudy and dim?  Are you hearing things that you hadn't heard before?  Are there noises that keep coming, trying to tell you to give up?  In every battle, the enemy has always tried to use psychological warfare to distract the mind of men and cause them to quit.  Goliath would be classified as using psychological warfare.  He was to inflect fear into the men of Israel heart.  And he would have succeeded if God had not sent David, the anointed, to bring him down.  During other wars, the enemy has used radio, television, and other means of technology to inflict fear into the hearts of the warrior.  And even today, the enemy of our souls is using these same technologies to distract the warrior.  People are giving up because of what they are seeing and hearing taking place throughout  the land and in the churches.  But Isaiah said, "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).  We are in a battle for our soul, therefore, we must keep our minds stayed on Jesus.  Because if the enemy of your soul can distract you, he'll defeat you.

 Sing:  Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His Glory and Grace.

2011 August 22 - Morning Manna

And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship. And when they had taken up the anchors, they committed themselves unto the sea, and loosed the rudder bands, and hoised up the mainsail to the wind, and made toward shore. And falling into a place where two seas met, they ran the ship aground; and the forepart stuck fast, and remained unmoveable, but the hinder part was broken with the violence of the waves. And the soldiers' counsel was to kill the prisoners, lest any of them should swim out, and escape. But the centurion, willing to save Paul, kept them from their purpose; and commanded that they which could swim should cast themselves first into the sea, and get to land: And the rest, some on boards, and some on broken pieces of the ship. And so it came to pass, that they escaped all safe to land. (Acts 27:39-44)

Today's Morsel: It has been stated that no one cares about the storms you face at sea, what matters is - did you bring the ship into port!  Scripture doesn't tell us who the captain of the ship that Paul and the 275 others on board with was.  But I'm sure after this experience, he was probably more willing to listen to Paul than to others.  Storms of life are going to come.  It rains on the just and the unjust, Jesus said (Matthew 5:45).  Many ships have been lost at sea due to inexperienced captains.  The sea represents the waters of afflictions and the river of depression.  Many churches, homes, and families are lost within these waters, because they don't know how to pilot the ship.  When afflictions and depression come, you have to learn how to maneuver and  ride the waves.  You have to learn when to hoist sail and when to lower it.   The sail represents your arms.  Up gives you speed. Lowering the sail will slow you down.  Sometimes in the storm, you may just need to slow down and allow the waves to carry you.  Then, on the other hand, you may need the speed to push you forward.  But more important than all of this, is that you need to ensure that Jesus is always onboard with you.  Even if it seems as though He's sleeping in the hinder part of the boat, He can still calm the storm at your beckoning call.  For he said,  "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour" (Isaiah 43:2-3). Do you have Him onboard your ship?

Sing: Standing on the promises I cannot fail, when the howling storms of doubt and fear assails, by the living Word of God I shall prevail, Standing on the promises of God.  

Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God my Savior; Standing, Standing, I am standing on the promises of God!

2011 August 20 - Morning Manna

Are they Hebrews? so am I. Are they Israelites? so am I. Are they the seed of Abraham? so am I. Are they ministers of Christ? (I speak as a fool) I am more; in labours more abundant, in stripes above measure, in prisons more frequent, in deaths oft. 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? (2 Corinthians 11:22-29)

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: Football legend Bobby Bowden said, "Don't go to your grave with a life unused."  How are you using your life?  Are you using it for Jesus or are you just letting it sit idle. Solomon said, "I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man" (Proverbs 24:30-34).  This man's life was being wasted right before his own eyes.  He was not using his life wisely. Are you a good manager of your time?  Time is one the most precious commodities that we have. It is what our life is made up of.  Paul said, "For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of Christ. For it is written, As I live, saith the Lord, every knee shall bow to me, and every tongue shall confess to God. So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God" (Romans 14:10-12).  Paul didn't waste his life, he used every moment he could for Jesus, to preach the gospel.  How will Jesus view your life?  Well used or wasted?

Sing:  When He calls me, I will answer.  When God calls me, I will hear. When He calls me, I will answer, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.  I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord; I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.

2011 August 19 - Morning Manna

Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away. I, even I, am he that comforteth you: who art thou, that thou shouldest be afraid of a man that shall die, and of the son of man which shall be made as grass; And forgettest the LORD thy maker, that hath stretched forth the heavens, and laid the foundations of the earth; and hast feared continually every day because of the fury of the oppressor, as if he were ready to destroy? and where is the fury of the oppressor? (Isaiah 51:11-13)

Today's Morsel:  One of the things that Jesus spoke, was that no man knows the minute or the hour that He would return.  Many people have been deceived into thinking that Jesus was going to come on a certain day or at a certain time.  And many of these people have become heart-broken and disappointed when it didn't happen.  Listen, God is not the author of confusion.  He's a God of peace.  If you are living daily according to the Word of God, you should never be afraid to die, and you shouldn't be focusing all our time wondering when He's coming back.  Jesus came to give you life and that more abundant.  An abundant life and a joy-filled life. A life of excitement.  The more we serve the Lord, the more excited we should be.   I've heard people say, "I'm not afraid to die, I just don't want to suffer."  Didn't Jesus suffer?  Doesn't scripture tell us that if we suffer, we shall also reign with him (2 Timothy 2:12).  Isaiah said, "Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away."  We have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus Christ.  Therefore, we should be singing and having joy upon our heads.  There should be no sorrow and mourning within us, because the joy of the Lord is our strength.   Stay focused and know that Jesus is your comforter and Lord!

Sing: Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain, gladness and joy, and sorrow, and mourning, shall flee away. Therefore the redeemed of the Lord shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their heads.

2011 August 18 - Morning Manna

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. (1 Timothy 1:12-15).

Today's Morsel:  I love to tell how Jesus saved my soul, when I was lost and facing dark despair.  But my mortal tongue could never tell the whole nor give Him enough thanks for such wonderful love.  Every so often, I pinch myself and say, "Is this really real?"  God has placed me into the ministry to preach this precious saving Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.  My, what an election and calling.  If you knew where I was when He found me, you would understand why I love Him so.   All my secular positions and selections can never compare to this calling.  Someone said that the highest calling one could ever receive, is the calling by God to place a man or woman into the ministry to preach the Gospel; because there is no one higher than God that can call them.  Paul, who was a persecutor of the church, found himself in the ministry of Jesus Christ, and I am honored to follow in his footsteps as well as all the ministers before me.  Paul said, "And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief."  There are many people who persecute the church today because they don't yet know Jesus.  But once they realize who He truly is, as Paul did, it's going to change their lives and they, too, may find themselves in the ministry of Jesus Christ.  "Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you" Jesus said, (John 15:16).  Are you thankful and excited about the work the Lord has called you to?  I pray so.

Sing:  He is more than all the world to me, the dearest friend that I have ever known; and it will take the whole eternity, to thank Him for the love that He's has shown to me.

2011 August 17 - Morning Manna

Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice. For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple. The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head. I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God. When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple. They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy. But I will sacrifice unto thee with the voice of thanksgiving; I will pay that that I have vowed. Salvation is of the LORD. And the LORD spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land. (Jonah 2:1-10).

Today's Morsel:  Are any of you like Jonah? Are you running trying to get away from what God has called you to do?  This second chapter is what Jonah experienced while in the belly of the whale.  He found himself in a mess. Jonah said that he cried unto the Lord in his affliction and the Lord heard him.  I'm sure you've heard the old saying that you can run but you can't hide.  Sooner or later, God will find you.  There are many people today afraid to confess Christ because of fear of what others may say or think.  They are afraid of losing their job or being ridiculed for their belief.  But wouldn't it be easier to just let people know up front what you believe and stand for so that you aren't stressed, unhappy, and trying to cover up who you are?  Sooner or later, they are going to find out who you are because God has a purpose to save people's lives and He is going to use you to do it and no one else.  So you might as well get busy about His business.

Sing: Here I am Lord! Here I am! I give all myself to you, here I am. Here I am Lord, here I am, let you spirit work through me, here I am.

2011 August 16 - Morning Manna

Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit. (Hebrews 6:1-3)

Today's Morsel:  Spiritual growth  is not about numbers, but about quality.  It's about excellence and worth.  If you had to judge the people you attend church with on a weekly basis, how many of them would you say are ready to meet Jesus?  All?  Three-quarters? Half?  One or two? None?  Many churches focus on numbers instead of quality.  It will be the quality of the Christian that gets them into heaven.  It will be the ones who have grown in Christ ( 2 Peter 1:5-11). That have kept themselves in the love of God and have had compassion on others (Jude 21-22).  Ford  Motor company used to say, "Quality is job one!"  In other words, the most important output is quality.  If a church isn't sending forth quality saints into the harvest field, than their saints will soon be found on the road dead.  Dead to the truth.  Dead to the gospel.   And dead spiritually.  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"  (Ephesians 4:11-15). Quantity or Quality, which would you say is the most important?

Sing:  Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true; and with thanksgiving, I'll be a living, sanctuary for you.

2011 August 15 - Morning Manna

The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him. (Psalms 92:12-15)

The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.  (Proverbs 16:31)

The glory of young men is their strength: and the beauty of old men is the gray head. (Proverbs 20:29)

Today's Morsel:  Aging. They say that from the time we come into the world we begin to age and that we are moving from life to dead.  Solomon said that the gray hair is a crown of glory; it is gained by living a godly lifestyle. And he says that the glory of the young is their strength; the gray hair of experience is the splendor of the old.  When I turned fifty, a friend of mine gave me a hat that said, "Over the hill." I thought to myself, "I'm not over the hill, I'm just on the back nine!"

It is said that you can tell you are growing older when:

Ø You get winded playing checkers.

Ø Your children begin to look middle-aged.

Ø You look forward to a dull evening.

Ø You know all the answers, but nobody's asking the questions.

Ø You join the health club - and don't go.

Ø You sit in a rocking chair and can't get it going.

Ø Your knees buckle, and your belt won't.

Ø You burn the midnight oil at 9:00 P.M.

Ø Dialing long distance wears you out.

Ø Your back goes out more than you do.

Ø You have too much room in the house and not enough in the medicine cabinet

Ø You sink your teeth into a steak and they stay there.

Ø Everything hurts, and what doesn't hurt doesn't work.

Ø You can stand people who are intolerant.

As Solomon said, A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.  (Proverbs 17:22).

 

I pray that you laughed a little today.

Sing: The joy of the Lord is my strength. The joy of the Lord is my strength. The joy of the Lord is my strength. The joy of the Lord is my strength.

2011 August 13 - Morning Manna

My soul cleaveth unto the dust: quicken thou me according to thy word. I have declared my ways, and thou heardest me: teach me thy statutes. Make me to understand the way of thy precepts: so shall I talk of thy wondrous works. My soul melteth for heaviness: strengthen thou me according unto thy word. Remove from me the way of lying: and grant me thy law graciously. I have chosen the way of truth: thy judgments have I laid before me. I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame. I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. (Psalms 119:25-32)

 Today's Morsel:   A few year ago, "Band Aid"  came out with a little song that said: " I am stuck on Band-aids brand, cause Band-aids stuck on me."  It was a cute little song to entice parents to buy band-aids to put on their children should they get a cut or scrape while playing, because they would stick and not come off.  And even if they became wet, they would still stick and cover the wound.   So my question to you today is, are you stuck on Jesus and is Jesus stuck on you?  The Psalmist said, "I have stuck unto thy testimonies: O LORD, put me not to shame."  It means that he had adhered to the testimonies of God as if he had been glued to them, or as if he and they were firmly united together.  He had so adhered to them that he could not be detached from them.  What about you are, you glued to the testimonies of God?  David said, "The testimonies of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple."  Not until we attach ourselves to Jesus  can we saw as Paul: "Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:35-39).  Jesus said that he came to set at liberty them that was bruised.  He will cover any scar or wound that you have received.  But you have to allow Him to attach Himself to you so He can cover you with His love.  Are you stuck on Jesus and is Jesus stuck on you?

Sing: Jesus got a hold on my life and He won't let me go, Jesus got into my heart, He got into my soul; I use to be oh so sad, but now happy, free, and glad, cause Jesus got a hold of my life and He won't let me go.

2011 August 12 - 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. And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful. And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.  He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death. (Revelation 21:1-8)

  Today's Morsel:  It's always encouraging to me when I've been away from a place for a long time and I return and see what changes have been made.   In 1970, I landed on the island of Okinawa enroute to Vietnam.  When we landed on the island at Kadena  Airbase, there wasn't hardly anything there.  The  island hadn't recovered or rebuilt much from World War II.  We were able to buy a sandwich from an old military bus window used as a snack truck.   It was somewhat  depressing.  And I felt for the people.   But when I returned again in 1993, things had changed. And then when I left in 2009, things had really changed and the island is now up to modern technology, colleges, and has state of the art buildings and constructions.  Even Starbucks  and many other national restaurants and cuisine occupy the island.  The island has become totally international.

John said that he 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.  Are you looking for that holy city, the new Jerusalem? Are you ready to occupy your new home?  You see, the heaven and earth that we now occupy will be changed.  It will be gone Peter said ( 2 Peter 3:10-14).  Those of us who know that this will happen should be preparing ourselves to get ready for our new home.   So while we walk this pilgrim pathway, clouds will over spread the sky; but when traveling days are over, there will be not a shadow nor a sigh.  Aren't you excited?  I am!

Sing: When we all get to heaven, what a day or rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, we will sing and shout the victory.

2011 August 11 - 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:  What would classify as a true friend?  Would you say it is someone who calls to check on you to ensure that you are doing okay?  Would you say that it is someone who lets you have the last piece of cake?  Would you say it's someone that is willing to die for you?  In each of these cases, Jesus fits the category.  He checks in on us every day.  You may ask how.  As soon as the light of morning arises, He's check on us.  He feeds us with good things so that our youth is renewed like the eagle.  And He was willing to die for us.  That's what a true friend will do for you.  Would you do the same for Him?  Solomon said, " A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17).  Some people are part time friends.  When things are going good, they will be with you.  But as soon as you correct them for wrong doing, or something that they know that they shouldn't have done, they leave you.  Again, Solomon tells us, "Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful" (Proverbs 27:5-6).  If someone who says they are your friend is willing to correct you when they see you doing something wrong or something that makes you a bad witness for Jesus before others, it may hurt but you better keep them around because they are few and far between. Solomon said, "Faithful are the wounds of a 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! Oh what peace we often forfeit, Oh what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer.

2011 August 10 - Morning Manna

And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed. And Simon and they that were with him followed after him. And when they had found him, they said unto him, All men seek for thee. And he said unto them, Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also: for therefore came I forth. (Mark 1:35-38).

Today's Morsel:  I've noticed a lot of billboards, newspaper articles, and poster boards are reflecting missing persons.  These people who others are trying to be locate so they can be reunited with their families and loved one.  So there is an all points bulletin looking out for them. Because many knew that Jesus was the cure for their illness and could fix their hunger and other needs, they sought for Him.  Often they came to the disciples looking for Jesus.  Can people find Jesus when they come to you?  Can they locate Him when they see you?  Can they tell that you are one of His disciples?  Jesus said that love one to the other is the evidence that you are His disciple.  Peter told Jesus, "All men seek for Thee."  And it is no different today.  People are looking for Jesus. Many are looking in the wrong places because many churches have become camouflaged and are not reflecting the truth.  I heard one lady say that she once went to a church and that they had so many strobe lights going, that she thought that she was back in the night club.  We are the church, and we must not blend in with the world.  We must let the true light shine.  People want Jesus.  They are hurting, sick, and suffering.  They are crying out as the man in the tombs.  Are you going to lead them to Him, or are you going to hide your light and blend in with the world?  Jesus said if you deny Him before men, He will deny you before His father in heaven. Jude tells us, "And of some have compassion, making a difference"

(Jude 1:22).  Who will say that you showed them the way to Jesus?

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

2011 August 9 - Morning Manna

And the men of Ephraim said unto him, Why hast thou served us thus, that thou calledst us not, when thou wentest to fight with the Midianites? And they did chide with him sharply. And he said unto them, What have I done now in comparison of you? Is not the gleaning of the grapes of Ephraim better than the vintage of Abiezer? God hath delivered into your hands the princes of Midian, Oreb and Zeeb: and what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him, when he had said that. And Gideon came to Jordan, and passed over, he, and the three hundred men that were with him, faint, yet pursuing them. (Judges 8:1-4)

Today's Morsel:  I have read many stories of runaway slaves whose masters chased  them for many days trying to locate them and bring them back into slavery.  Many of the men and women, boy and girls ran and ran until they had to no more energy to run in pursuit of their goal, freedom.  They knew that in most cases if they could get north of the Mason Dixon Line, they would have a good chance of being free. Faint, yet pursing.  Gideon and his men were tired, weary, and faint, yet they kept pursing their enemy the Midianites.  Sometimes when you are pursuing your goals and dreams you may become faint, but you must not quit in pursuit of  the finishing line.  Paul said that we should not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not" (Galatians 6:9). Remember, heaven is not your goal, it's your destiny.  The more sweat in peace, the less blood in combat!

  

Sing:  Lord, you know I need a brand new touch, my strength from yesterday is gone; but if you'll give me, Lord, another touch, I'll have the strength to carry on.

2011 August 8 - Morning Manna

I love the LORD, because he hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because he hath inclined his ear unto me, therefore will I call upon him as long as I live. The sorrows of death compassed me, and the pains of hell gat hold upon me: I found trouble and sorrow. Then called I upon the name of the LORD; O LORD, I beseech thee, deliver my soul. (Psalms 116:1-4)

Today's Morsel:  Have you ever seen the Norman Rockwell portrait  of the dog clinched to the backside of a little boy.  He portrays the dog has having a pretty firm grip on this kid, doesn't he?  Have you gotten super glue or krazy glue between your fingers?  That stuff really sticks to your skin, if you aren't careful. It's grips pretty good.

 

The psalmist said that sorrows of death compassed him and the pains of hell got hold of him.  Do you ever feel like hell has a strong hold on you? The man in the tombs did.  The woman whose daughter was grievous vexed did.  Job did.  And some of you reading this right now may feel as though he does too. When hell grasps hold of you, it seems that nothing is going right for you.  Pain, agony, sorrows, grief, and despondency are on every side.  The psalmist said that sorrow and death compassed him and all he found was more trouble.  It's almost like General Armstrong Custer.  Indians on every side.  When all you can find and see is trouble, what do you do?  The Lord said through  the prophet Isaiah, "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness" (Isaiah 41:10).  David 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" (Psalms 20:1-2).  Solomon said, "The name of the LORD is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe" (Proverbs 18:10).   Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom" (Luke 12:32).  The psalmist said that he called upon the name of the Lord and asked Him to deliver his soul.  Any time the situation gets too tough for you to handle, the Lord says that we should, "Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me" (Psalms 50:15).  If you feel the devil has a grip on you, call JESUS.

Sing: Hail! Hail! Lion of Judah! Lord I know how great you are. Lamb that sits upon the throne, Holy One that's who You are.  Hail! Hail! Lion of Judah! Great and Mighty God You are. I want to see Your Kingdom come, not my will but Thine be done. Hail! Hail! Lion of Judah! Lord I know how great you are.

2011 August 6 - Morning Manna

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. Our feet shall stand within thy gates, O Jerusalem. Jerusalem is builded as a city that is compact together: Whither the tribes go up, the tribes of the LORD, unto the testimony of Israel, to give thanks unto the name of the LORD. For there are set thrones of judgment, the thrones of the house of David. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee. Peace be within thy walls, and prosperity within thy palaces. For my brethren and companions' sakes, I will now say, Peace be within thee. Because of the house of the LORD our God I will seek thy good. (Psalms 122:1-9)

Today's Morsel: I really love going to the house of the Lord. There is nothing like being in a Holy Ghost power packed worship service.  There is nothing like seeing lives changed and people moving into a relationship with God.  David said, I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord.  Why was he so excited about going to the house of God?  Because the house of the Lord is a safe haven.  It is a place to regain strength and comfort in times of trouble.  It is a place where people of like precious faith join together to worship the one and only true God. It is a place where we can bring our burdens and cares and find relief.  It is a place of fullness of joy and pleasure for evermore.  I can't wait for those  times to come.  Do you need a friend?  Do you need someone to just listen?  Do you need a place of quietness where you can be free from the cares of this life for a bit?  Then why not try the house of God, because there is peace within the walls and prosperity within its palaces.

Sing: In His presence is fullness of joy, at His right hand, pleasures forevermore; oh, what fellowship divine, I am His and He is mine, in the presence of the Lord is fullness of joy!

2011 August 5 - Morning Manna

Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. (Hebrews 10:35-11:1)

Today's Morsel:  When people ask me if I receive the newspaper, I always tell them, "Yes".   And when they ask me why, I say it is because I want to check the obituary column to see if my name is in there!   I know that if my name is in there I wouldn't be checking!!  Many people are passing on to their eternal reward.  None of us know when it will be our time.  Paul said that our salvation is nearer than when we first believed.  Therefore, we must not cast away our confidence which has a great recompense of reward.  Paul told Timothy, "I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing" (2 Timothy 4:7-8).  He spoke of Moses this way: "By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter; Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward" (Hebrews 11:24-26).  There is a crown waiting for each of us, but we must endure to the end to receive it.  So then, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  So whatever you desire and are waiting for, your faith will determine if you will receive it or not.  Let me encourage you, cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith.

Sing: Faith can move mountains, mountains of fear and of doubt, faith can move mountains, so why don't you try your faith out.

2011 August 4 - Morning Manna

Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Rest in the LORD, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass. Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. For evildoers shall be cut off: but those that wait upon the LORD, they shall inherit the earth. (Psalms 37:4-9)

Today's Morsel: What comes to your mind when you think of delighting and resting in the Lord?  If we delight in something, we take pleasure in it.  If we rest, we are refreshed and free from exertion.  So, we need to take pleasure in serving the Lord and get excited about doing it.  On any given Sunday, the people of the world will get so excited about their favorite sports team.  Many will be so excited that they will stand in freezing sub-zero degree weather and watch them play and shout until they are hoarse and cannot speak.  But when it comes to the Lord and His church, many so called Christian won't even venture out of their house to go to the house of God to worship, citing, it's too cold.  Why can't we delight ourselves in the same way for God?  David said, "Shout unto God with a voice of triumph."  Yell, scream, holler, whatever it take to give Him praise. We already know that we win, so why not start getting excited and acting like it.  I believe that if more born again believers would get excited about serving God, they wouldn't be so stressed, weary, and without hope.  And that is because God would give them the desires of the heart. 

Sing: I'm gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can! I'm gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can! Praise Him in the morning, praise Him all day long, I'm gonna praise the Lord any way that I can.

2011 August 3 - Morning Manna

Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away. Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous. For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish. (Psalms 1:1-6)

Today's Morsel:  Where do you seek most of your counsel from? Do you seek it from your pastor, or do you seek it from those in the world.  King Rehoboam consulted with the old men that stood before Solomon his father while he yet lived, and said, How do ye advise that I may answer this people?  And they spake unto him, saying, If thou wilt be a servant unto this people this day, and wilt serve them, and answer them, and speak good words to them, then they will be thy servants for ever. But he forsook the counsel of the old men, which they had given him, and consulted with the young men that were grown up with him, and which stood before him: And he said unto them, What counsel give ye that we may answer this people, who have spoken to me, saying, Make the yoke which thy father did put upon us lighter? And the young men that were grown up with him spake unto him, saying, Thus shalt thou speak unto this people that spake unto thee, saying, Thy father made our yoke heavy, but make thou it lighter unto us; thus shalt thou say unto them, My little finger shall be thicker than my father's loins. And now whereas my father did lade you with a heavy yoke, I will add to your yoke: my father hath chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions. So Jeroboam and all the people came to Rehoboam the third day, as the king had appointed, saying, Come to me again the third day. And the king answered the people roughly, and forsook the old men's counsel that they gave him; And spake to them after the counsel of the young men, saying, My father made your yoke heavy, and I will add to your yoke: my father also chastised you with whips, but I will chastise you with scorpions (1 Kings 12:6-14).  He didn't heed the advice of his elders and it divided the kingdom of David his father.   I have had many men and women come to me to seek my counsel and advice on certain issues in their life.  Some wanted to know if they should marry a certain individual, or take a certain job. When I gave them what I felt was godly counsel, many of them rejected what I told them, and sought counsel from those in the world about the same issue.  I in no way am an expert or genius when it comes to selecting mates for others, but I do know what the Word of God says, and that is to be not unequally yoked together with unbelievers.  If you marry someone who isn't sold out to serving God with all their heart, mind, soul, and strength, you are going to run into trouble sooner or later. Jesus didn't say a house divided against itself cannot stand for nothing.  So my counsel was Bible based, yet some did not heed it.  David said that if you want to be blessed of God, you need to walk not in the counsel of the ungodly. Therefore, you need to seek godly counsel if you are going to stand.

Sing: Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be add unto you, hallelu, hallelujah!

2011 August 2 - Morning Manna

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)

 

Today's Morsel:  Do you have trouble with trusting God?  Do you have trouble waiting on Him to bring to pass what you've asked of Him?  You know, there are going to be many times that you find your back against the wall.  And it's during those times that you are going to have to learn to trust God, or you may make the wrong decision.  To trust God means to rely and hope and believe that He will come through for you.  Paul informs us that the just must live their whole life by their faith.  No matter what we are facing or what we are up against, we must never lose our confidence and belief in God.  Solomon said that all the ways of  a man are right in his own heart, but the Lord weighs the spirit. Jeremiah said that the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked who can know it.  Our minds can fool us when our backs are against the wall.  So don't lean to your own understanding when facing difficult times.  But keep believing what God's Word says and He'll bring you through.

 

Sing:  Keep believing because His Word is true, Keep believing you know that Lord will see you through, when troubles rise in your life and you don't know what to do, you'll be fine, if you just keep believing.

2011 August 1 - Morning Manna

For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints. Then shalt thou understand righteousness, and judgment, and equity; yea, every good path. When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee: (Proverbs 2:6-11)

Today's Morsel: I don't know the artist of the song Pants On The Ground, but I like what he says.  Some of the lyrics say:  "Pants on the ground, pants on the ground, lookin like a fool with your pants on the ground."  These  lyrics speak  of those who are wearing saggy pants, waistbands hanging below their backside.  There seems to be many people without discretion these days.  Many of them display no maturity, sound judgment, or caution in their lives.  Sad to say, the spirit of worldliness is slowly creeping into the church.   Paul told Titus, "But speak thou the things which become sound doctrine: That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The aged women likewise, that they be in behaviour as becometh holiness, not false accusers, not given to much wine, teachers of good things; That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed. Young men likewise exhort to be sober minded. In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you" (Titus 2:1-8).  Paul wanted them to be discreet because he knew that discretion would preserve the church and maintain its holiness and good stand for Jesus.   Solomon said that when wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee.  In other words, when we hide the Word of God in our hearts and minds, we become like the psalmist and we do not sin against God.  Sin is caused by a lack of wisdom and good judgment in a person's life.  The church must teach people how to make good and wise decisions so that we won't become foolish in thinking and believe that everything we see the world doing is alright. 

Sing: Show me Your ways, that I may walk with You. Show me Your ways, I put my hope in You.  The cry of my heart is to love You more.