2011 November 30 - Morning Manna

For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. Wherefore henceforth know we no man after the flesh: yea, though we have known Christ after the flesh, yet now henceforth know we him no more. 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 5:14-17)

Today's Morsel: General Chesty Puller, the most decorated U.S. Marine in history and the only Marine to receive five Navy Crosses, was once asked what he thought of the new Marine Corps. He replied, "Old breed, new breed, doesn't matter, as long as it is the Marine Corps breed."

Old saints, new saints, doesn't matter as long as the Gospel is preached to the whole world by the whole church. Paul said that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away; behold all things are become new. One of the things that many believer sstruggle with is change. We oftentimes become accustomed to our ways and we don't like to change. We get into a rut and we want to stay there. We drive to church the same way each week. W e sit in the same seats. We tell the same old stories. We use the same old excuses. We eat the same thing each time we go out for dinner. When we become new believers in Christ, every day we should be looking at our lives to see what changes we need to make to make us more like Christ. Jesus calls for us to be perfect even as our Father in heaven is perfect. The word perfect here is to become complete. If we never strive for perfection, we will never become perfect. If we are going to be like Christ, we have to change. And that change always starts with our thinking. Because as a man thinketh so is he. Can others tell that you are a new creature in Christ or does your life still reflect the old ways? What changes would you say that you need to make in your life today?

Sing: I just started living, I found me a brand new life, changed my directions, and took away all my strife; I'm a new born believer, with a holy infilling, my days are brighter, my load is lighter, I just started living!

2011 November 29 - Morning Manna

For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building. According to the grace of God which is given unto me, as a wise masterbuilder, I have laid the foundation, and another buildeth thereon. But let every man take heed how he buildeth thereupon. For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. (1 Corinthians 3:9-14)

Today's Morsel: The story of the three little pigs was always one of my favorite childhood stories. The pigs chose certain material to build their house. One with straw, one with sticks, and one with brick. After they were all built, the big bad wolf came to attack the pigs. The pigs who's houses were built out of straw and sticks were easily destroyed by the wolf. But the pig whose house was built with brick, something solid, was still left standing. I don't know about you, but I think I'll build my house from something solid. I believe I will build my house from the Word of God as the temptedr Satan, will keep trying to blow my house down. Paul said for other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. If we build on the foundational base of His Word which He has given to us, we do not have to worry about our house suffering from the fiery trials that come into our lives. Jesus said, "Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock"(Matthew 7:24-25). How are you building your life?

Sing: I've got my, foot on the rock and my mind's made up, though I walk through the lowly valley though I drink from the bitter cup, when the devil comes a knocking trying to show me an easier way; I stand right flat on my feet, I throw my head in the air, I look him, straight in the eye, I say my foot's on the rock and my mind's made up.

2011 November 28 - Morning Manna

And he came to Capernaum: and being in the house he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves by the way? But they held their peace: for by the way they had disputed among themselves, who should be the greatest. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them: and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name, receiveth me: and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me, but him that sent me (Mark 9:33-37).

Today's Morsel: For the past 26 years, my wife and I have done our morning devotions together when we are home together. I have read the Bible through at least 26 times, yet I am always amazed at the new insight that comes from God's Word each time I read it and study it. I have come to realize that there is no way a person can have all the insight into what God's Word means and may be speaking to. Even Jesus' disciples found themselves confounded by His teaching and ministry. Nothing was hidden from Jesus. Even when His disciples were thinking something and did not say it audibly, Jesus knew what they were thinking the same way He knew what Simon was thinking when the woman with the alabaster box of ointment came into his house to anoint Jesus for his burial. Jesus' comments were much deeper than the surface comments. Even Nicodemus was confounded by His comments about being born again. The Psalmist said that there is not a word in our tongue that God doesn't already know it (Psalm 139:4). The disciples had disputed among themselves about who would be the greatest. But Jesus sat down and called the twelve, and said unto them, "If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all, and servant of all." Jesus wanted them to know that it wasn't about position in His kingdom, but it was about serving. He wanted them to know that if they got into the habit of seeking for positions, they could easily become bias and begin to reject people. This is why He chose a child as an illustration for them. One who is really called and who will serve, will exercise self-less service. He will take last while placing others first. A self-less and humble servant will always be brought to the head of the class.

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

2011 November 26 - Morning Manna

Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. (Matthew 26:36-39)

Today's Morsel: Have you gotten to the point of nevertheless in your walk with God? Have you made up your mind that you are going to serve God no matter what anyone else does? Often, we can become disheartened and may even think about walking away when others do us wrong or they say something that we may not like. Jesus told us that offense would come. If you knew that you were the only Christian on your job site, would you take a stand for the Lord? If you were diagnosed with an incurable illness, would you still serve the Lord? Scripture says that Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. If He's the same, shouldn't we be the same? As new creatures in Christ, our lives should reflect Him in every way. We shouldn't be hot and on fire for God today and then cold and depressed tomorrow. This is where the nevertheless comes in. When Paul asked the Lord to take away the thorn from his flesh and the Lord told him that My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness, Paul's next comment was, "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong" (2 Corinthians 12:9-10). You see, nevertheless says, "I will still worship and praise God because I love Him, not because of the things that He may do for me."

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 anyway that I can.

2011 November 25 - Morning Manna

"The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD. All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits. Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established" (Proverbs 16:1-3).

Today's Morsel: How's your commitment today? How committed are you to your marriage? How committed are you to your job? How committed are you to your country? How committed are you to your family? How committed are you to your God and to your church? If we aren't committed, then it's easy for us to quit. And we know that quitters never win and winners never quit. Scripture says that if we commit our works unto the Lord, then our thoughts shall be established. If I commit myself to my marriage, my job, my family, my God and anything else that I am doing to the Lord, then my mind will remained focused on these things and I won't give up or give in on them, but will work to see them through. Everything that we do in life should be done heartily as unto the Lord. When we look at Ruth, she was committed to go all the way upon the vows that she had taken. She committed her works unto the Lord and God honored her for her commitment. What about you? Would you like God to honor you for your commitment? Then whatsoever you find to do, do it heartily as unto the Lord.

Sing: Lord I give you my heart, I give you my soul, I live for you alone, every breathe that I take, every moment I'm awake, Lord have your way in me.

2011 November 24 - Morning Manna

For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. (Romans 1:20-23)

Today's Morsel: Having taken a good look at our world today, there seems to be many people who are not thankful for who they are and for what they have. During the Vietnam conflict, when many of our military members returned to America, as soon as they exited the plane walkway and touched American soil, they dropped down on their knees and kissed the ground, displaying their thankfulness that God had allowed them to see and to put their feet on American soil once again.

Paul said that in the last days perils times would come. He said that people would be unthankful ( 2 Timothy 3:1-7). He also told the church at Rome,that many people, when they knew God, didn't glorify Him as God, neither were they thankful. If we say that we have a relationship with Jesus, then we must display our thankfulness at all time. "For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them," Jesus said in Matthew 13:17. As we celebrate this day of thanksgiving, let us all be thankful that God has allowed us to see another day, and that we can celebrate with family and friends. Remember, in everything give thanks for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you ( 1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Happy Thanksgiving!!!

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

2011 November 23 - Morning Manna

Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump? (1 Corinthians 5:6)

Today's Morsel: I was once watching a Tom and Jerry cartoon, and Tom was making a cake. It called for adding yeast to the flour. Instead of putting in just a little yeast, he threw in the enter jar. When his cake began to rise, it blow up his stove.

Paul said that sin is like yeast (leaven). Just a little and it affects the whole body. When you say that you are born again, your sin doesn't just affect you, it affects the whole body of believers. In many ways, Paul, like Jesus, always used simple life applications to address a larger issue. The church at Corinth was allowing sinful things to be accepted. They weren't realizing that it was affecting the entire body of Christ. And so Paul wanted them to understand that just the little sin they were allowing to take place was like yeast inside of bread dough. It would affect the entire church. This is why each of us who say that we are of Christ, must purge ourselves daily to ensure that we don't let sin enter or remain in our lives, because sooner or later it will affect not only us, but the entire body of Christ as well.

Sing: I came to Jesus weary worn and sad, He took my sins away, He took my sins away. And now on Him, I roll my every care, He took my sins away.

2011 November 22 - Morning Manna

So Moses brought Israel from the Red Sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur; and they went three days in the wilderness, and found no water. And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the LORD; and the LORD shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee. And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters. (Exodus 15:22-27)

Today Morsel:  During our last visit to Taiwan, our missionary friends took us to a tea plantation on  the highest mountain in South East Asia.  This was some very good tea. The tea owner  said that they had won as the second best tea in the world.  And that was because the first place was won by China, as they were the judges.  When I looked at the tea plants, they all looked like hedge bushes that you grow around your homes.  The tea is made from the leaves.  Tea is good for you. There are many healing remedies that come from trees, bushes, and scrubs.  God placed everything here upon the earth for our healing.  We just need to study which ones and use them.  When the children of Israel came to Marah, they couldn't drink the water.  The Lord showed Moses a tree and he cast it into the waters and the waters were sweet and able to be drank.  The angel told Ezekiel in Ezekiel 47, that the leaf of the trees shall be for medicine, "And by the river upon the bank thereof, on this side and on that side, shall grow all trees for meat, whose leaf shall not fade, neither shall the fruit thereof be consumed: it shall bring forth new fruit according to his months, because their waters they issued out of the sanctuary: and the fruit thereof shall be for meat, and the leaf thereof for medicine" (Ezekiel 47:12).  When John got a glimpse into heaven in Revelation 22, the angel told John that the leaves of the tree were for the healing of nations.  "And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb. In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations" (Revelation 22:1-2).  Jesus said that He was the true vine and that we are the branches (John 15:1-5).  Having an understanding of this, the leaves grow on the branches. When Jesus gave us the great commission, He said that we would lay hands on the sick and they shall recover. "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).  David said that we are to be like trees planted by the rivers of water (Psalms 1:1-4).  Let me encourage you today: God has anointed you for a purpose; and that is to make the water sweet.  When you preach the gospel, it is for the healing of nations, so make it sweet.

Sing:  He's sweet I know, Jesus is sweet I know; storm clouds may rise, and strong winds may blow; but I'll tell the world, everywhere I go, that I've found my Savior, and He's sweet I know.

2011 November 21 - Morning Manna

Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips (Psalms 141:3).

Today’s Morsel: When I use to play football in the Army, everyone had to have a mouth piece or mouth guard for protection. As quarterback, it was hard calling the plays so that the other players could all hear me with the mouth piece in, so I took it out. We ran a play and gained many yards and I looked and the referee had thrown a flag. When I asked him what the penalty was for, he said it was because I didn’t have my mouth piece in. I said, "Are you are kidding me?!" He said it was part of the safety rule. Mouth pieces serve as protectors so you don’t lose your teeth.

The Psalmist asked the Lord to set a watch before his mouth and to keep the door of his lips. When we have the protection of the Lord at our mouth, we won’t utter words that aren’t please to Him, nor will we snare ourselves with wrong wording. If you find yourself uttering and saying things that you shouldn’t, or yelling at your loved ones, then why not ask the Lord to set a watch at your mouth. Sticks and stones may break bones, but it is sure that wrong words do hurt.

Sing: I will praise Him! I will praise Him! Praise the Lamb for sinner slain! Give Him glory all ye people, for His blood can wash away each stain.

2011 November 19 - Morning Manna

Then came the children of Israel, even the whole congregation, into the desert of Zin in the first month: and the people abode in Kadesh; and Miriam died there, and was buried there. And there was no water for the congregation: and they gathered themselves together against Moses and against Aaron. And the people chode with Moses, and spake, saying, Would God that we had died when our brethren died before the LORD! And why have ye brought up the congregation of the LORD into this wilderness, that we and our cattle should die there? And wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink. (Numbers 20:1-5)

Today's Morsel: I use to love watching those old westerns where the people in wagon trains would be heading west, and they would come to the bad lands and there would be no water. I use to sit and wonder, "What are they going to do?" They would begin to complain. Their livestock would begin to die. They would hold their canteens, which were already empty, up to their mouth, trying to get more water to come out. And then the scout would locate some water, only to realize it was bad or someone had poisoned it. In the end, they would locate a river flowing with much fresh water.

The children of Israelwere on a journey heading to the promised land and they were without water. They began to complain to Moses and Aaron that they had been brought out into the wilderness to die. They said, Wherefore have ye made us to come up out of Egypt, to bring us in unto this evil place? it is no place of seed, or of figs, or of vines, or of pomegranates; neither is there any water to drink. No one can live without water. Even NASA spends billions on exploring Mars looking for water, because they know that if there is life on Mars there has to be water. In John 4, when the woman of Samaria came to the well to draw water, Jesus asked her for a drink. They both needed water. Jesus needed natural water and she needed spiritual. What about you? Could you use some spiritual water today? Are you feeling a little dry and parched? You can't live without the water and only Jesus can satisfy your soul. He is The Living Water. When you are drinking from His fountain, you will never thirst again.

Sing: I thirsted in a barren land of sin and shame, and nothing satisfying there I found. But to the blessed Cross of Christ one day I came, where springs on living water did abound. Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul they satisfy. Drinking at the springs of living water, a wonderful and bountiful supply.

2011 November 18 - Morning Manna

"David therefore departed thence, and escaped to the cave Adullam: and when his brethren and all his father's house heard it, they went down thither to him. And every one that was in distress, and every one that was in debt, and every one that was discontented, gathered themselves unto him; and he became a captain over them: and there were with him about four hundred men" (1 Samuel 22:1-2).

Today's Morsel: One of the things I liked about being a Drill Instructor was changing misfits into warriors. The word misfit here is not used in a negative way. It's just that most recruits don't have any knowledge about being a soldier when they first enlist. In a sense, David was a Drill Instructor. He took about four hundred men and turned them into a force to be reckoned with. These men became mighty men of valor. Many folk, when they first come into the church, have no idea what the church is all about. But after some training and directions in their lives, they too become a force to be reckoned with. They quickly put their enemy on the run. They are swift to deliver men from the fire. They become preachers, teachers, evangelist, administrators, and helpers. They immediately take hold to the Gospel and go forth with the Spirit of the Lord upon them, because they know that they have been anointed to preach the gospel to the poor; that Jesus has sent them to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recoveryg of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Luke 4:18-19).

They are mighty warriors and they won't back down from any. They see every challenge as a reason to express the hope that is within them. So if you are a pastor today, see everyone in your church as a potential warrior for Christ. Train them and help them become mighty men (and women) of valor.

Sing: Mighty warrior, dressed for battle, Holy Lord all is He. Commander in Chief, bring us to attention, lead us into battle to crush the enemy.

Satan has no authority here in this place, he has no authority here, for this habitation was fashioned for the Lord’s presence, no authority here.

Jesus has all authority, here in this place, He has all authority here. For this habitation was fashioned for the Lord’s presence, all authority here.

2011 November 17 - Morning Manna

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. The tongue of the wise useth knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools poureth out foolishness. (Proverbs 15:1-2)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever wondered how fights get started? They often get started by words. Someone says something that the other person doesn't like and the exchange of harsh words pursue. The same way that it takes two to tango, it takes two to fight. If we would be wise, we would walk away and not allow ourselves to be drawn into confrontation that could lead to hurt and anger. Solomon said that a soft answer turns away wrath. Of all the kings of Israel, Solomon was the only one that Israel did not have war under. They went for forty years without war. Solomon was a man of much wisdom. He said that the wise uses knowledge the correct way. Are you one of those that feels you have to get the last word in? Do you feel as though when someone says something that you do not like that you have to respond to their words? Remember, a soft answer turns away anger. So don't feel as though you have to say anything when someone speaks ill of you or says something that you don't like, as "He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding" (Proverbs 17:27-28).

Sing: Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thou sight, O' Lord. Let the words that I say, be pleasing unto thee, that they bring glory unto you, O' Lord!

2011 November 16 - Morning Manna

After this manner he made the ten bases: all of them had one casting, one measure, and one size. (1 Kings 7:37)

Today's Morsel: I noticed that many hat sizes say that one size fits all. Meaning that no matter the size of one's head, the hat will fit. But does one size really fit all? The Bible says that when Hiram was constructing the house of God under King Solomon's leadership, he made ten bases: all of them had one casting, one measure, and one size. They were all the same.

What about when it comes to the church, does one size fit all? Yes, it should fit all. And here's why:

· "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD" (Deuteronomy 6:4)

· "I and my Father are one "(John 10:30).

· "But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him"(1 Corinthians 8:6).

· "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all" (Ephesians 4:4-6)

· " For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word, and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one. And there are three that bear witness in earth, the Spirit, and the water, and the blood: and these three agree in one" (1 John 5:7-8).

When it come to the church, "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). And that one name, Jesus, fits all.

Sing: Jesus! Jesus! Jesus! sweetest name I know, fills my every longing, keeps me singing as I go.

2011 November 15 - Morning Manna

If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors. (James 2:8-9)

Today's Morsel: If someone was to ask you if you have a special preacher that you like to hear speak, who would it be? For me, I have lots of men that I like to hear preach, but I do not idolize them. Many people in the church are spiritual groupies. Some people will follow certain preachers and singers all around the world just to hear them speak or sing, but they will not follow Jesus. I often wonder if it is really the speaking and singing or could there is a lust issue with them? Paul and Apollos even had groupies in their day. To the church at Corinth, Paul wrote, "For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men? For while one saith, I am of Paul; and another, I am of Apollos; are ye not carnal" (1 Corinthians 3:3-4)? The Apostle Paul wanted all of his followers not to just follow him, but to become imitators of Christ. He said we are nothing but ministers of Christ. Even Jesus had groupies following Him, until He made a comment that they did not like, and then they stopped following Him. James tells us that if we have respect to persons, we commit sin and are convincted of the law as transgressors. It's okay to have our special speakers and singers that we like, but they must not become idols that we think that no one else can compare to them. We should never allow anyone or anything to assume Christ's place in our lives, because only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Sing: Follow! Follow! I would follow Jesus! Anywhere, everywhere I would follow on! Follow! follow! I would follow Jesus! Everywhere He leads me, I would follow on!

2011 November 14 - Morning Manna

But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee
(1 Samuel 13:14).

And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will (Acts 13:22)

Today’s Morsel: David, like his great grandmother Ruth, possess the traits of faithfulness, commitment, determination, and obedience as a young man in his time. If one is to be holy, then he too must possess the character traits of God. The fruit of the Spirit is not just fruit, but qualities and character traits of God. It’s called the fruit of the Spirit, because this is what the spirit brings into a life of a person. Even though David was a man after God’s own heart and he possessed these qualities, he also shows us how easy it is to allow ourselves to violate these qualities if we do not keep ourselves in check and accountable to someone.

J. Oswald Sanders wrote, “It was the breaking of the Tenth commandment (Coveting his neighbor’s wife) that led David to commit adultery, thus breaking the seventh commandment. Then, in order to steal his neighbors wife (thereby breaking the eighth commandment), he committed murder and broke the sixth commandment. He broke the ninth commandment by bearing false witness against his brother. This all brought dishonor to his parents and this broke the fifth commandment. In this way he broke all the ten commandments that relate to loving one’s neighbor as oneself (Commandments five through ten). And in doing so, he dishonored God as well, breaking, in effect, the first four commandments” (J. Oswald Sanders, Bible Men of faith, P. 13).

When God sent the Prophet to David, David didn’t blame someone else, but he repented of his sin, revealing the characteristic that made him a man after God’s own heart. Godly sorrow. As Paul said, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death” (2 Corinthians 7:10). Only when we are willing to repent of our sins, can we become what God wants us to be; people after His own heart.

Sing:I love Him too much to fail Him now; too much, to break my vow. For I promised the Lord that I would make it somehow. And now I love Him too much to fail Him now.

2011 November 12 - Morning Manna

"

"And again the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel, and he moved David against them to say, Go, number Israel and Judah... So when they had gone through all the land, they came to Jerusalem at the end of nine months and twenty days. And Joab gave up the sum of the number of the people unto the king: and there were in Israel eight hundred thousand valiant men that drew the sword; and the men of Judah were five hundred thousand men. And David's heart smote him after that he had numbered the people. And David said unto the LORD, I have sinned greatly in that I have done: and now, I beseech thee, O LORD, take away the iniquity of thy servant; for I have done very foolishly"

(2 Samuel 24:1;8-10).

Today's Morsel: One of the tricks of the trade that the enemy uses against the church is the numbering system. Some pastors and saints become so discouraged because they see or hear of churches that have what they call large congregations, and they only see their 10-15 each Sunday and during mid-week. They try using every developed program for church growth and revival, yet nothing seems to work. And so they become discouraged. Me, I don't worry about numbers, because my Bible says that where two or three are gathered together in His name, He is in the midst. So as long as Jesus is there, nothing else matters. The numbers are not what is important, as long as I am doing what He asks me to do. Paul said, "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. So then neither is he that planteth any thing, neither he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase. Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building" (1 Corinthians 3:6-9). I know that as a leader, you can't directly supervise more than five people at one time. Anymore than that, you will need help. Ask the mother who has more than three children. Or the Toddler Sunday school teacher who has more than three tots in her classroom. She is ready to pull her hair out by the end of class if she doesn't have some help. When I was in the Army, the largest unit I oversaw was 250 people. But I only directly supervised two of them, the two secretaries. The rest of the unit was broken down into smaller elements for supervision. As Moses' father-in-law told him, you better get yourself some help or you will kill yourself (my wording). When King David wanted Joab to number the people, Joab said unto the king, "Now the LORD thy God add unto the people, how many soever they be, an hundredfold, and that the eyes of my lord the king may see it: but why doth my lord the king delight in this thing?" (2 Samuel 24:3) In other words, why, other than for pride! But David wanted to know. And scripture says that after he was told the number, his heart smote him and David realized that he had sinned against God in doing it. And seventy thousand men lost their lives ( 1 Samuel 24: 15). Always remember, it's not about numbers with God. It's about quality. Five hundred people who aren't ready for heaven is spiritual leadership failure. But ten who are, that is spiritual leadership success.

Sing: I'm yours Lord, everything I am, everything I'm not, everything I've got; I'm yours Lord, try me now and see, see If I can be completely yours.

2011 November 11 - Morning Manna

Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread. Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah. And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept. And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people. And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her. So they two went until they came to Bethlehem.
(Ruth 1:6-19)

Today's Morsel: I really love the book of Ruth. Within its four chapters we find some very good and godly character traits. Loyalty, faithfulness, commitment, candor, courage, initiative, dependability, endurance, unselfishness, and will. It would have been easy for Ruth to turn back. But there was something inside of her that caused her to see and follow through with her commitment to her husband and his family. According to Paul's writing to the church at Rome, Chapter 7, she was free from her vows of marriage. There were no more legal bindings for her to this family, as her husband was dead. But when we look a little closer at the writings, we can see that even though she was loose from the law, she saw that there could be more by continuing on in the law. And even today, some folks discard the law and jump ahead to grace. But you can't have grace without the law being written in your heart and mind, as the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. If you don't understand the law, you won't understand grace. This is why some misuse God's grace, because they don't understand God's law. Paul said, "What shall we say then? Is the law sin? God forbid. Nay, I had not known sin, but by the law: for I had not known lust, except the law had said, Thou shalt not covet"(Romans 7:7). We don't know a whole lot about Ruth's upbringing through Scripture, but her life reflects somethings that we, as Christians, surely ought to be, know, and do.

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

2011 November 10 - Morning Manna

"Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.  He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the Father: so he that eateth me, even he shall live by me. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever. These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in Capernaum. Many therefore of his disciples, when they had heard this, said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it? When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you? What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and who should betray him. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father. From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God" (John 6:53-69)

  

Today's Morsel: Since I have been in the church, I have noticed that many people are quickly offended over the smallest things.  It's too cold.  It's too hot.  Nobody likes my opinion.  It's too loud.  That's not the way that song was written to be sung.  The music was off beat. The drummer was way too loud.  The pastor preached too long. The kids made too much noise.  I don't believe that they don't have a nursery for the kids and someone to watch them.  Because of these things, many folks walk away from the church.  These little things were more important to them than Christ.  You aren't going to find a church that is perfect in every way.  If you allow the little things to push you away, you will soon be lost. The enemy of your soul knows that without faith you can't please God, and that faith comes by hearing the Word of God.  I'm sure you've heard the saying, "I know you think you heard what I said, but I'm not sure you understood what I meant."  I have had people say to me, "But you said....."  And I would have to say, "No, that is not what I said.  That is what you thought I said."  They were offended over what they thought I had said.  When Jesus made the comment, "Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you;" many of his disciples said, This is an hard saying; who can hear it?  And from that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. They were offended at His saying.  And when Jesus turned to the twelve, which He had chosen, He asked them, "Will ye also go away?"  Simon Peter answered him, "Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God."  When you know truth, little things don't offend you and push you away from the Truth.

Sing: I'm going through, yes, I'm going through, I'll pay the price, whatever others do; I'll take the way, with the Lord's despised few; I started out with Jesus, and I'm going through.

2011 November 9 - Morning Manna

If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalms 11:3)

Today's Morsel: Every so often, I like to walk around my house and look at the foundation. My purpose is to see if there are any cracks.  Most homes and buildings that are built seem to have pretty good foundations, and the structure seems to last a long time. But when it comes to building our lives, most people don't consider what goes into the foundation.  Jesus said,"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it."(Matthew 7:21-27).  Notice the house that fell wasn't built on a firm foundation.  It wasn't built according to the Word of God.

  

Paul said" Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:19-22).  Paul said that we are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, which is Jesus Christ. If you aren't building your life on this foundation, when the winds of doctrine, waters of afflictions and depression come into your life, you are going to crumble and fall.  When John the Revelator got a glimpse into heaven, he said, "And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb"(Revelation 21:14).  John was an apostle of Jesus Christ.  He saw his own name on one of the foundations. Therefore, he knew that he had built right.  What John wrote for us in the gospel and epistle of John are the things we need to use to build our life, the Word of God.  Let me encourage you, go back and read the gospel of John and the epistles which he wrote and see if you are building your life correctly on this sure foundation.

Sing: Standing on the promises of Christ my King, through eternal ages let His praises ring; Glory in the highest I will shout and sing, standing on the promises of God.

Standing, standing, standing on the promises of God my Savior.  Standing, standing, I'm standing on the promises of God.

2011 November 8 - Morning Manna

"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light" (1 Peter 2:9)

Today's Morsel:  The Yellow Light - The light turned yellow just in front of him.  He did the right thing, stopping at the crosswalk, even though he could have beaten the red light by accelerating through the intersection.  The tailgating woman was furious and honked her horn, screaming in frustration, as she missed her chance to get through the intersection, dropping her cell phone and makeup.  As she was still in mid-rant, she heard a tap on her window and looked up into the face of a very serious police officer.  The officer ordered her to exit her car with her hands up.  He took her to the police station where she was searched, fingerprinted, photographed, and placed in a holding cell.  After a couple of hours, a policeman approached the cell and opened the door.  She was escorted back to the booking desk where the arresting officer was waiting with her personal effects.  He said, ''I'm very sorry for this mistake.  You see, I pulled up behind your car while you were blowing your horn, flipping off the guy in front of you and cussing a blue streak at him.  I noticed the 'What Would Jesus Do' bumper sticker, the 'Choose Life' license plate holder, the 'Follow Me to Sunday-School' bumper sticker, and the chrome-plated Christian fish emblem on the trunk, so naturally I assumed you had stolen the car.''  Priceless!

 

Peter said that we were chosen by God to show forth The One who has called us out of darkness.  How do you act when you are driving?  How do you act when you are in the mall or grocery store?  Do you yell and scream at your kids?  Do you rant and rave about the prices and the long lines and bark orders to your spouse?  Are you a complainer about what is going on in government before others?  Can people tell that you are a Christian or do they see you as they see everyone else?  The only way to be a Christian is to be one all the time, and in every situation.

Sing:  To be like Jesus, to be like Jesus, on earth I long to be like Him; all through life's journey from earth to glory, I only ask to be like Him.

2011 November 7 - Morning Manna

"Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee" (Psalms 143:8)

Today's Morsel: This past spring, I got to hear the birds outside our bedroom window each morning.  Just to hear the sweet sound of a robin singing was always so refreshing.  I sometimes wondered what they were saying, their sound was always so sweet.  The Psalmist said to the Lord, "Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning."  In other words, let the first thing that I hear in the morning be You.  Let me know that Your presence is near me.  Let Your tender mercy and grace awaken me.  Let the soft touch of Your hand touch me that I may awaken with You on my mind and in my heart.  How do you wake in the morning?  Do you wake with overwhelming fear or distress?  Do you wake knowing that your day will be filled with only work or trouble? Or do you wake knowing that your trust is in the Lord and that He will order your steps throughout the day?  Every day that we are awakened, we should see it as the hand of God touching us and awakening us to rejoice in His presences and lovingkindness.

Sing: Thy lovingkindness is better than life. Thy lovingkindness is better than life. My lips shall praise thee, thus will I bless Thee, I will lift my hands unto Thy name.

2011 November 5 - Morning Manna

Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and put your trust in the LORD. (Psalms 4:5)

Today's Morsel: I believe that we are living in the times that every man is doing that which is right in his own eyes.  Therefore, as children of God, we must learn to do right and obey God's Word.  Why is there so much compromise with wrong, with political officials?  Do they not know that, "The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to David, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God" (2 Samuel 23:3).  Do they not know that"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).  John said that those who do not do right and love their brother belong to the devil (1 John 3:10).  How do we get a people that is so accustom to doing wrong become righteous?  We lead them back to the altar of repentance so they will know how to do what is right.  John said, "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous"(1 John 3:7).  God wants His children to do right and trust in Him.  Paul said, "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name" (Hebrews 13:15).  When we offer the sacrifices of praise, we are doing what is right and God is well pleased.  Don't compromise with wrong, but let's learn to do right. Because we are serving a righteous God.

Sing: Lord, I lift up my hands, standing unashamed, I worship you Father, exalting Your name, You've captured my heart, now my life is changed, I lift up my hands.

2011 November 4 - Morning Manna

"LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah."(Psalms 3:1-2).

Today's Morsel: Does the current world situation trouble you?  Are you concerned about what you see coming upon the earth?  Jesus said that in the last days men's hearts would fail them for looking at the things which are coming upon the earth.  Paul even said the evil seducers would wax worst and worst, deceiving and being deceived.  If we aren't careful, we can allow these things to trouble us.  But since this world is not our home and we are just passing through, we should keep our focus on Jesus, where we are headed, and see how many of the wicked we can pull out of the fire. Hell is real, you know.  And it's the wrong place for you to spend eternity.  So let me encourage you today to always remember the six (6) "W's" as you live for the Lord.   Worship the Lord with all your heart, Watch your surroundings, Witness to everyone you meet, Wait upon the Lord, be Wise as a serpent and harmless as a dove, and Walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God.  If you follow these six "W's," you won't be troubled.

Sing:  LORD, how are they increased that trouble me! Many are they that rise up against me. Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God; but thou O' Lord are a shield for me, the glory and the lifter of my head, but thou O' Lord are a shield for me, the glory and the lifter of my head.

2011 November 3 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost. And he said unto them, Unto what then were ye baptized? And they said, Unto John's baptism. Then said Paul, John verily baptized with the baptism of repentance, saying unto the people, that they should believe on him which should come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues, and prophesied.(Acts 19:1-6).

Today's Morsel: Do you have the Holy Ghost?  The question that Paul asked these believers is not a question of rudeness, but a question of clarification.  So many folk say that they have the Holy Ghost, but their lives reflect otherwise.  If someone says that they are a Christian and a follower of Christ, they should know when and how God filled them with His Spirit.  The evidence that you have been filled with God's Spirit is that you will speak in another tongue as the Spirit gives the utterance.  I know that there are many that will disagree with this statement, but what is your evidence of the infilling?  You can't have the Fruit of the Spirit nor the Gift of the Spirit without the Spirit.  Don't get me wrong, I am not elevating speaking in tongues, but there is no other evidence in scripture after Jesus' death, burial, resurrection and ascension where any were filled without speaking in tongues. John wrote in the Gospel of John, "In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.  He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)" (John 7:37-39).  So let me warn you, the devil has always tried to imitate everything that God does, even speaking in tongues.  But when you are truly filled with God's Spirit, you are going to speak with another tongue just like they did in Acts 2:1-4, Acts 8:12-17,  Acts 10:44-48, and Acts 19:6, and it's going to be for real and not an imitation of the real thing.  The Apostle Paul, who also wrote, I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than you all (1Corinthians 14:18) knowing that these were believer would have never asked them if they had received the Holy Ghost since they had believed if it was not a separate and distinct experience with precise evidence.  As he told the church at Rome, "For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged" (Romans 3:3-4). The Holy Ghost is the Spirit of Christ and Paul informs us that if any have not this Spirit, they are none of His (Romans 8:9).  

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

2011 November 2 - Morning Manna

"A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD" (Psalms 122:1).

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching" (Hebrews 10:25)

Today's Morsel: I don't know about you, but I love attending church.  David said he, too, was glad when they said unto him, "Let us go into the house of the LORD."   I get excited in every service about what God is doing. When I see the worshippers arise and the sons and daughters of God singing and crying out to God, my heart is filled and overwhelmed with the awesome power and joy of God.  Only He can satisfy your soul.  If you don't like attending church, let me ask you why?  Is there something that you are allowing to come between you and God?  Has someone said something that you did not agree with?  Well, let me tell you, if you allow someone or something to keep you from the house of God, they are closer to God than you are.  Church is about you building a relationship with God and increasing your faith.  Let me share with you some ways to have better church:

1. Get up in the morning and anticipate a great service.

2. Plan your day so as not to permit anything to keep you from attending church.

3. Call someone and ask them to come with you.

4. Pick someone up in your car and bring them to service.

5. Prepare your heart and mind with repentance.

6. Arrive early enough to pray before service begins.

7. Greet visitors and members alike with a smile and a handshake.

8. Avoid lengthy conversations, especially about heavy or non-spiritual subjects, before service.

9. Sit as close to the front as you can.

10. Focus on worship.

11. Do not watch the clock.

12. Refuse to allow your mind to wander or become distracted.

13. Don't get up and walk out.

14. Don't allow a thoughtless word or act by someone ruin the service for you.

15. Remain sensitive to the Holy Ghost throughout the service.

16. Continually ask God to apply the Word to your life.

17. Assist people who want to pray at the altar.

18. Thank the minister for the message, both generally and specifically.

19. Determine how you will act differently when you leave the service.

20. Intercede for souls at the close of the message.

21. Always keep your focus on God.

  

Sing: I was glad when they said unto me, I was glad when they said unto me, I was glad when they said unto me, come let us go into the house of the Lord.