2012 February 29 - Morning Manna

Moreover the Philistines had yet war again with Israel; and David went down, and his servants with him, and fought against the Philistines: and David waxed faint. And Ishbibenob, which was of the sons of the giant, the weight of whose spear weighed three hundred shekels of brass in weight, he being girded with a new sword, thought to have slain David. But Abishai the son of Zeruiah succoured him, and smote the Philistine, and killed him. Then the men of David sware unto him, saying, Thou shalt go no more out with us to battle, that thou quench not the light of Israel. And it came to pass after this, that there was again a battle with the Philistines at Gob: then Sibbechai the Hushathite slew Saph, which was of the sons of the giant. And there was again a battle in Gob with the Philistines, where Elhanan the son of Jaareoregim, a Bethlehemite, slew the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the staff of whose spear was like a weaver's beam. And there was yet a battle in Gath, where was a man of great stature, that had on every hand six fingers, and on every foot six toes, four and twenty in number; and he also was born to the giant. And when he defied Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea the brother of David slew him. These four were born to the giant in Gath, and fell by the hand of David, and by the hand of his servants.

(2 Samuel 21:15-22)

Today's Morsel: Even though there were other battles, it seems that Goliath was the first giant Israel had to face. They seem to have seen nothing like Goliath before. He was a threat. A tormenter. A force to be reckoned with because of his size. The size of a man can cause you to be intimidated and fear if we aren't careful. That is what Satan tries to do, is intimidate you. He tries to make you think that he is some big giant. But Isaiah said that when we see him we are going to say, "Is this the man that made the earth to tremble, that did shake kingdoms; That made the world as a wilderness, and destroyed the cities thereof; that opened not the house of his prisoners?" (Isaiah 14:16-17). Peter said that all he is as a roaring lion walking about seek whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:7). Basketball superstar Shack O'Neal was like a giant when he came into the NBA. Because of his size, everyone feared him. And because of his size, he pushed players around and he dominated the courts. But soon, other giants started coming into the league. And now other teams have giant players and Shack is out because they began to stand up to him and push him back. Giants are going to keep on coming. There are going to be giant problems and giant situations that you are going to face. There are going to be things that really put fear into your life. There are going to be problems so big that you are going to wonder how they got so big. But when these giants start coming, you just need to heed the Word of God and remember, "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4). There is NO weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD" (Isaiah 54:17). So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him" (Isaiah 59:19). Whose report will you believe? I choose to believe the report of the Lord.

Sing: Whose report will you believe, we shall believe the report of the Lord; Whose report will you believe, we shall believe the report of the Lord; His report says I am heal, His report says I am fillec, His report say I am free, His report says victory!

2012 February 28 - Morning Manna

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meekand lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke iseasy, and my burden is light.  (Matthew 11:28-30)

Today'sMorsel:  What is stress?  Stress is mental, emotional, or physical strain caused by anxiety or overworking. It may cause such symptoms as raised blood pressure or depression.  It is caused by the demands placed upon our bodies. If you are suffering from extreme stress or long-term stress, your body will eventually wear itself down.  But sometimes, small amounts of stress can actually be good for us. Understanding our stress level is important.  If nothing in our life causes us any stress or excitement, we may become bored or may not be living up to our potential.  If everything in our life, or large portions of our life, cause us stress, we may experience health or mental problems that will make our behavior worse.  Recognizing when we are stressed and managing our stress can greatly improve our life.  Some short-term stress; for example, what we feel before an important job presentation, test, interview, or sporting event;  may give us the extra energy we need to perform at our best.  But long-term stress; for example, constant worry over our job, school, church or family; may actually drain our energy and our ability to perform well.  Everyone faces stress. But the key is learning how to manage it and not allow it to manage you.  Knowing that we would face stress, Jesus says,"Come unto me, all ye that labourand are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learnof me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto yoursouls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light." Are you feeling alittle stress today? Then why not go to Jesus and allow Him to give you rest.Remember, He is the antidote for the troubled mind (John 14:1-2).

Sing: When I am burdened, or weary and sad, Jesus is all I need; never He fails to uplift and make glad, Jesus is all I need.  All that I need He will always be, all that I need till His face I see; All that I need through eternity, Jesus is all I need.

2012 February 27 - Morning Manna

"Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec" (Hebrews 6:17-20).

Today's Morsel: The size of your vessel will determine the size of anchor you will need to stabilize your ship. Anchors are rated by their holding power, which is the anchor's ability to hold a given weight. You may not need a heavy anchor on a calm day, but when the storm hits, the strength and velocity of the storm will determine the anchor you need. Do you ever feel like you are in a storm and things are blowing and moving a little bit too fast for you and you want to slow it down? When you are battling the storms of life, you hope something or someone will slow things down. Paul said that we have an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil. He said that the foundation of God stands sure. When you connect to the Ark of the Covenant, you are connecting to Jesus for He is the one who sits on the mercy seat. It is Jesus that shows compassion and mercy towards us and delivers us from the storm. The psalmist said "This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me" (Psalms 119:50). There is an anchor of hope in the Word of God. We just need to connect with it. To realize the strength of the anchor you’ve chosen, you’ve got to endure the storm. So let me encourage you today, don't wait for the storm to come, but prepare yourself now by attaching yourself to the right anchor. It can be the difference between life and death.

Sing: I've anchored in Jesus, the storms of life I'll brave, I've anchored in Jesus, I fear no wind or wave, I've anchored in Jesus, for He hath power to save, I've anchored to the Rock of Ages.

2012 February 25 - Morning Manna

My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments: For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. Let not mercy and truth forsake thee: bind them about thy neck; write them upon the table of thine heart: So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man. 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 3:1-6).

Today's Morsel: Have you ever had to deal with the trust factor? In every life, we seem to run into that wall called “Trust.” We are taught at an early age to not trust everyone. And so we run into that wall whether we will trust people or not. This is especially true if we have ever been done wrong, and I think we all have been at one time or another. If someone says something we do not like; they mistreat us, lie on us, backstab us, never invite us to be with them, they cheat on us, or they promise they will do something for us and they don’t come through, we run into the trust factor. When I conduct a faith Promise service (this is where people pledge money for missions), I ask the people, "Can God trust you with money?" Some said yes while others don't fill out a slip, and so I take that as a no. No, God can’t trust them with money. Because Faith Promise says, "I don't have it, but God will provide it." So I ask you today, just what can God trust you with? Can He trust you with the Gospel? Can He trust you with His power and authority? Can He trust you with His people? Can He trust you with His gifts? Can He trust you with His Spirit? What can He trust you with? Can He trust you with you? You see, that trust factor is always going to be there because human beings are going to do you wrong. I’m sure there have been those who have told you of someone you can't trust. And the reason they tell you that is that they don't want you to fall into the same trap that they did and get hurt. Good friends will do that for you. But deep within each of us, even though we are told such things, we still want to give the person a chance to prove that what was told us isn't true. Solomon tell us, "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding." You see, trusting God is not like trusting man. Man will fail you, but God will not fail you. When we trust God with all our being, it brings us into a relationship with Him that no matter what comes our way, we know that God has our best interest at heart.

Sing: Now know I that the LORD saves His anointed; He will hear him from His holy heaven, with the saving strength of His right hand, they are brought down and fallen: but we are risen, and stand upright.

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we will remember the name of the LORD our God.

2012 February 24 - Morning Manna

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass. And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof" (Revelation 21:10-23)

Today's Morsel: Heaven! The final resting place. Home for the saints of God. A place of no more suffering and pain. But I'm afraid that so many who talk about heaven, don't really want to go there. From all indications, many people are trying to extend their life upon the earth for as long as possible. Even medical professionals are trying to find ways to extend life. Me, I don't want any heroics. When it's my time, let me exit stage right. For some, as soon as there is an abnormality, it is doctor here I come. If pain last longer than a day, something must be wrong with them. Does the church really believe in heaven, or are we Christian atheists?

Do we talk about heaven just to win souls and make others happy, or do we talk about heaven because we really want and plan to go there? I believe that one of the fallacies with the church is that we aren't having heaven here on earth. Jesus said that we should pray that God's will be done in the earth as it is in heaven. Well, when sinners repent, heaven rejoices, Jesus said. But the church doesn't get excited until someone gets baptized or receives the Holy Ghost. The next time you see someone in your church that you know who wasn't living according to God's Word repents or lift up their hands to God, get excited with heaven and rejoice! Worship God. It'll make it easier for you when you get there.

Sing: I want to know how it feel, to make my way down the streets of gold. I want to know how it feels, to have a talk with the saints of old. I want to know what it's like, to rest my feet by the river of life; I've heard of heaven and I know that it's real, I want to know how it feels.

2012 February 23 - Morning Manna

Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches. Who is weak, and I am not weak? who is offended, and I burn not? If I must needs glory, I will glory of the things which concern mine infirmities. The God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which is blessed for evermore, knoweth that I lie not. In Damascus the governor under Aretas the king kept the city of the Damascenes with a garrison, desirous to apprehend me: And through a window in a basket was I let down by the wall, and escaped his hands (2 Corinthians 11:24-33)

Today's Morsel:When we look at the book of Deuteronomy in the Old Testament, the key word is “Remember.” Moses wanted the children of Israel to remember everything that the Lord had done for them, how He brought them out of Egypt, how He fought for them, how He had provided for them, and how He delivered them. So he said, all the commandments which I command thee this day shall ye observe to do, that ye may live, and multiply, and go in and possess the land which the LORD sware unto your fathers. And thou shalt remember all the way which the LORD thy God led thee these forty years in the wilderness, to humble thee, and to prove thee, to know what was in thine heart, whether thou wouldest keep his commandments, or no. And he humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, and fed thee with manna, which thou knewest not, neither did thy fathers know; that he might make thee know that man doth not live by bread only, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of the LORD doth man live. Thy raiment waxed not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years." He wanted them to remember because there is always a great danger when we forget too soon. When we forget what God has done for us, it causes us to be lifted up with pride and we say we don’t need the church, we’ve done all this by ourselves. When we look at the life of the apostle Paul, he is calling our attention to what God had done for him. This is done to enhance and increase our faith. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. Paul went through many things in his life for the Gospel. Like Paul, there are many storms we encounter, not only natural, but also physical and spiritual storms as well. The account Paul gives of his life would have been enough to make even the strongest man in the world turn around and give up. But Paul had had an encounter with The One that can calm the storm. And so he said that none of those things moved him. Paul didn’t give up. He said "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). Someone said, "No one really cares about the storms you faced at sea, they are only concerned if your brought the ship into port safely."

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

2012 February 22 - Morning Manna

Peter said, Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever
(1 Peter 1:22-23).

Today's Morsel: At the beginning of each New Year, people make New Year’s resolutions of things they are going to do. But few make it out of the first month. And that is because they have not changed their way of thinking. Israel was only three days into their journey from four hundred years of slavery and they wanted to turn around. To be born again, is to start anew; it is a refreshing and it takes time for growth. Peter said that we need to be born again of the incorruptible seed, the Word of God. James said that we must become doers of the word and not hears only. And Jesus said that except a grain of wheat falleth into the ground and die, it abideth alone, but if it dies, it will bring forth fruit, some 30, 60, and some 100 fold. So I ask you today, are you born again according to the Word of God? Jesus said that heaven and earth would pass away but His Word would not pass away. Corruptible seed perishes, while incorruptible seed is undecaying and immortal. That means the Word of God lives and abides forever. When we understand that Jesus is the Word made flesh (John 1:14), and our new birth is to be according to His Word (John 3:3-5;Acts2:38), then we can understand why Paul told Timothy, "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen. (1 Timothy 1:17). Jesus is after the order of Melchisedec; without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually (Hebrews 7:3); so we can see why we must be born of that incorruptible seed, Jesus! When you are born into this world, you are born of corruptible seed. When you die physically, you go back to the dust. But when you are born again spiritually, of the water and the spirit (incorruptible seed) according to the Word of God, and you have lived a holy and separated life unto God, you never die, but will always have eternal life,not only in this world, but in the world to come.

Sing: Born again, there's been a change in me. Born again, just like Jesus said. Born again, and all because of Calvary, I'm so glad that I've been born again.

2012 February 21 - Morning Manna

By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. For there they that carried us away captive required of us a song; and they that wasted us required of us mirth, saying, Sing us one of the songs of Zion. How shall we sing the LORD'S song in a strange land? (Psalms 137:1-4)

Today's Morsel: There is a tree called the Weeping Willow. It is a tree full of small limbs and leaves. Even though its branches and limbs are always pointing downward toward the ground, they are still pretty strong. I know because I have received many spankings from those limbs and branches! The psalmist gives us a picture of Israel heading into captivity. He said, by the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept, when we remembered Zion. We hanged our harps upon the willows in the midst thereof. Many saints today are hanging their harps on the willow. They have sat down and lost their zeal. They've lost their resolve, their determination, and their tenacity to serve God and the things of God. They no longer have a song to sing, or an instrument to play. They've shut their mouth and instrument cases. They don't see Psalm 150 as encouragement to praise God with every instrument and their voices. They've allowed the world situation to control their reverence. They've become captivated in their thinking and in their minds. They've allowed their situations and locations to affect their consecration to God. They wanted out! They wanted rest! They wanted peace! Like the weeping willow, they are sagging. Sometimes, I believe that the church forgets just how strong she really is. (See Luke 10:19;Acts 1:8; Dan 11:32.) But Micah lets us know that every saint of God should say, "But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin" (Micah 3:8). So if you are one of them who have hung their harp on the willow, or one of them who has closed their mouth from singing, get that harp off the willow and start praising God. Because, "Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me: and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I shew the salvation of God" (Psalms 50:23).

Sing: Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me! Whoso offereth praise glorifieth me! And to him that ordereth his conversation aright, will I show the salvation of God.

2012 February 20 - Morning Manna

This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. (Galatians 5:16-21)

Today's Morsel: When we look at the works of the flesh that Paul spoke of, we see that there are 17 things Paul mentioned that will kill you spiritually and cause you to miss heaven. Some of them may not seem as major as others, but they are like a serpent upon a rock. They will bite and sting like an adder. Even though God will forgive us of all of these things, if we allow them to hang around our lives, they will eventually kill us. The works of the flesh are enmity against God. Paul said that these things will keep you out of heaven. These things will make the oil in the apothecary send forth a stink. These things will make rottenness in your bones. These things will cause you to be of none effect for the kingdom of God. These things will cause you to struggle in your faith. These things will snuff out your lamp. These things, James said, are devilish, sensual, and every evil work. These things, Paul said, make you an enemy of God and they will cause you to miss the mark of the prize. Don't fool around with the "Deadly Seventeen." But be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.

Sing: What can wash away my sins, nothing but the Blood of Jesus. What can make me whole again, nothing but the Blood of Jesus. O' precious is the flow, that makes me white as snow, no other fount' I know, nothing but the Blood of Jesus!

2012 February 18 - Morning Manna

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:13)

Today's Morsel: Temptation is the same for everyone. We are all tempted with the same temptations. I've had people say to me, it's easy for you to avoid temptation, you are a preacher. Wrong! It's harder for me in some cases, because I have to live what I preach. The Bible says in Hebrews 4:15: "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15). Jesus was tempted also, He just made up His mind not to sin and we have to do the same thing. Hebrews 2:18 says: "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted" (Hebrews 2:18). Jesus gives us His Spirit to help us overcome the temptations that come into our lives. The way to defeat temptation is contentment. When we are content with who we are, what we have, and where we are, it makes it easier to see the temptations when they come and we can decide if we will give in or walk away. Paul said, There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able." You need to maintain a close walk with God so that when He speaks to you, you are able to listen and avoid the tempter.

Sing: When gloom and sadness whisper, you've sin no use to pray, I look away to Jesus, and He tells me to say.

I see a crimson stream of blood, it flows from Calvary, its waves which reach the throne of God, are sweeping over me.

2012 February 17 - Morning Manna

"I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread" (Psalms 37:25)

Today's Morsel: What comes to your mind when you hear or think about being forsaken? Do you think of being deserted? Do you think of being abandon? Or do you think of being isolated? When we lived in Okinawa, Japan, members of the military would purchase a dog or cat for their children. Then when it was time to depart the island, many of them would abandon the pet and just leave them on the island to fend for themselves. Every day, children are being abandoned. They are being left with no one to care for them. When we look at the story of Joseph, he was hated by his brothers because he was his dad's favorite. First they cast him into a pit and left him for a while. Then they sold him into slavery. His master's wife accused him of trying to take advantage of her. He is then placed into prison. But God is with Joseph. I'm sure there were times Joseph felt forsaken. I'm sure there were times he felt that he would never see his family again. I'm sure there were times he felt he'd never see his beloved father again. Year after year! Month after month! Week after week! Day after day! Minute after minute! Each day he got to hear the prison door slam. Each day he got to see a new face. Feeling abandoned. But Joseph went about his daily task. Holding to his dream. Thinking to himself "One day." And one day Pharaoh cast his butler and baker into prison, they each had dreams and Joseph interpreted their dreams for them. Joseph told them, "When you get out, don't forget me. Say a word to the king for me." But they each forgot him. I'm sure that Joseph probably thought, "Yea, even they have forgotten me." But God hadn't forgotten him.

Minute after minute! Hour after hour! Day after day ! Month after month! A year passed! And then a year and a half! And a year and three quarters! Maybe Joseph was starting to feel forsaken again. Paul said: "But when the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father"(Galatians 4:4-6). My friend, don't think that God has forgotten you. Keep doing what you know to do that is right and you'll see that He'll come through for you the same as He did Joseph.

Sing: He'll do it again! He'll do it again! Just take a look at where you are now and where you have been. He has always come through for you, He's same now as then. You may not how, you may not know when, but He'll do it again.

2012 February 16 - Morning Manna

And Joseph was brought down to Egypt; and Potiphar, an officer of Pharaoh, captain of the guard, an Egyptian, bought him of the hands of the Ishmeelites, which had brought him down thither. And the LORD was with Joseph, and he was a prosperous man; and he was in the house of his master the Egyptian. And his master saw that the LORD was with him, and that the LORD made all that he did to prosper in his hand. And Joseph found grace in his sight, and he served him: and he made him overseer over his house, and all that he had he put into his hand. And it came to pass from the time that he had made him overseer in his house, and over all that he had, that the LORD blessed the Egyptian's house for Joseph's sake; and the blessing of the LORD was upon all that he had in the house, and in the field. And he left all that he had in Joseph's hand; and he knew not ought he had, save the bread which he did eat. And Joseph was a goodly person, and well favoured. And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me. (Genesis 39:1-7)

Today's Morsel: In school, we learned that a "homonym" is a word that is spelled or pronounced in the same way as one or more other words, but has a different meaning. For example the word "lie", it can mean to lounge, recline, or to sleep with; it can mean to deliberately say something that isn't true; and it can be the position of your golf ball on a golf course. But today, I want to use if from the second meaning, that of deliberately saying something that isn't true. Many people will fill out an application for a loan and ask you to cosign with them knowing that the information isn't true. Or when they fill out their tax returns, they may claim deductions that they know that they don't have and then ask the tax examiner to sign and send it in. There are many people who will "lie" with others just for self gratification or to cover up a sin. In a court of law, witnesses are sworn to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. And Jesus said that we were His witnesses (Isaiah 43:10). He said that the truth would make us free (John 6:32). As long as we are truthful and tell the truth, we remain free from sin and ourselves. Jesus told the parable of the unjust steward who had to given an account of his stewardship, and how he had the debtors to change what they owed. They were agreeing to "lie" with the steward. When Joseph would not "lie" with Potiphar's wife she lied on him. So those who you won't "lie" with, will "lie" on you. But all liars will have their part in the lake of fire, John said inRevelations 21:8. So no matter where the ball may lie, how you lie, and who you may lie with, or even if you tell a lie, be sure that your sin will find you out.

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

2012 February 15 - Morning Manna

Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. (Hebrews 4:14)

Today's Morsel: A father told his son, "Son, I want you to hold this rope and don't let go, no matter what." Well, when the horse took off and was dragging the young lad, the father began to shout, "Son, let go." But the boy held on. When the horse stopped, the father said to the son, "Son, why didn't you let go?" He replied, "Dad, you told me that no matter what to not let go." You used to be able to tell some people's profession by the attire that they wore. I wish this was a true statement today. Even in the church, we are left to wonder. Are they really Christians or not? Are they really true laborers for Christ or workers of Satan? Paul said that we should hold fast our profession. In other words, the one who we confess to be ours, Jesus Christ, don't let go. We must hold fast to the truth of the Gospel message and proclaim it to a dying and lost world. Paul told the church at Galatia, "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed" (Galatians 1:6-9). And to the church at Ephesus, put on the whole armor of God that ye may be able to stand. Peter tells us, " 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). Our lives must reveal Him. How well are you representing your profession? A true Christians' life reveals Him in every way and at every turn. Not just Sundays.

Sing: This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light on mine, I'm gonna let it shine. This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

2012 February 14 - Morning Manna

But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him? My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. And hereby we know that we are of the truth, and shall assure our hearts before him (1 John 3:17-19).

Today's Morsel: Are you living what you say you are? Does your life really reflect you as a child of God? Do those around you know that you are a Christian and that you live each day for Him? You are not just to love only in word. Just telling someone you love them is not enough. It is through your actions, your attitude, your disposition, your mood, your spirit, that you reflect you love them. I’ve heard people say, "I have to love you, but I don’t have to like you." Can someone please explain this to me? Doesn’t liking lead to loving? When is the last time you looked your spouse in the eyes, held them tight and said, “I really love you?” When is the last time your brought them their favorite soda or candy bar? When is the last time you sent them a card in the mail, just to say hi and I love you? When is the last time you treated a co-worker to lunch or dinner? When is the last time you had someone other than a saint in your home for a meal? You see, our love is not just to be in word, but also in deed and in truth. What we do is what shows others that we are walking in truth and keep our minds pure before Him. It is not our words that show people this. Peter told Jesus he loved him, but then he denied him three times. It takes action to show the love of Christ in you. Let’s put it to work. Happy Valentines Day!

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 some how, and now I love Him too much, to fail him now.

2012 February 13 - Morning Manna

"Then came to him the mother of Zebedee's children with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing of him. And he said unto her, What wilt thou? She saith unto him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy right hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask. Are ye able to drink of the cup that I shall drink of, and to be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with? They say unto him, We are able. And he saith unto them, Ye shall drink indeed of my cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with: but to sit on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of my Father" (Matthew 20:20-23)

Today's Morsel: Sometimes we may ask for something we desire when we are in an emotional state, and because our minds are fogged with perplexity of thoughts, we don't hear and understand the reply from the one we asked when it comes back to us. And we may miss the meaning of what they say to us. We need to ensure our minds stay clear at all times. When Esau asked Jacob to feed him with pottage, and Jacob said to him, "Give me your birthright," Esau probably wasn't thinking it through entirely. Because of his emotions, he wanted what Jacob had at the time to meet his own want. Then later in life he realized his mistake. I've had people say, "I never agreed to that." Or, "I never said that I would do that." But when the papers they signed were shown to them, they said, "Oh, well I don't remember doing that." Too late now. When the mother of James and John asked Jesus to allow her sons to sit the one on His right and the other on His left in His Kingdom, Jesus told them "Ye know not what you ask." In other words, I don't think you know what you are asking me. You think this is just a cake walk with glamour and spotlight attraction. But this is really about denying yourself and taking up your cross and following Me. This is all about dying to live. This is about self-less service. This is about drinking a bitter cup. And then Jesus said to them, "Can you drink the cup that I drink and be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?" I think they misunderstood again. I think they may have thought, If we agree, then He'll give us these positions. I don't think James and John understood the meaning of what they were being asked. They agreed, but Jesus told them they would be baptized and they would drink the cup, but to sit on His right and left was not His to give. And then Jesus told them, it is for those who it was prepared for. And this is who it is prepared, for Jesus said: "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" (Matthew 25:31-40). You can't do enough to earn your salvation, because it is freely given. There is a place prepared for us called heaven, but if you want to go there you have to keep your mind clear and stayed on Jesus.

Sing: Oh! There's a highway to heaven, none can walk up there, but the pure and heart. Oh! There's a highway to heaven, walking up the Kings, highway.

2012 February 11 - Morning Manna

Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD (Lamentations 3:19-26).

Today's Morsel: Whether we know it or not, inside each of us is that spirit of compassion even though many may not display it. There are those times when we see things that happen, such as disasters, murders, shootings, robberies, and such, and it grips our heart strings and we cry. Crying doesn't mean that you are weak. I believe that crying is one of the ways that God has made us to express our inner feelings. In many ways, crying is a cleansing. The Bible says that even Jesus wept (John 11:35) and we are created in His image. Therefore, it isn't a bad thing to cry. Sometimes our crying are tears of joy, while other times they may be tears of sadness. But John,lets us know that one day those of us who will rein forever with Jesus, will have all of our tears wiped away. There will be no tears of sadness, loneliness, or pain for us, because those former things will all be passed away. Are you looking for that day? Jeremiah said that it is of the Lords mercies that we are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning. Each morning God, renews His compassion towards us. His loving-kindness, mercifulness, sympathy and forgiveness come to us each day. The psalmist admonishes, "Lord if thou would judge iniquities who could stand? But there is forgiveness with thee that thou should be feared." Compassion. His sympathy towards us. His willingness to help us is renewed each and every morning. I wonder how many times each of us didn't get what we deserved because of His mercy.

Sing: Mercy there was great and grace was free, pardon there was multiplied to me; There my burdened soul found liberty, at Calvary.

2012 February 10 - 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. And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
(2 Corinthians 5:14-21).

Today's Morsel: Let me ask you a few questions:

1. Did you repent of your sins when you got saved?

2. Did you get baptized in Jesus name?

3. Did you receive the Holy Ghost, evidenced by speaking with other tongues as the spirit gave the utterance?

4. Are you living a holy and separated life from this world and are you following peace with all men?

5. Is Jesus number one in your life?

You may say, shouldn't question number five be question number one. No! Because if you haven't did the first 4, question number 5 will never be question number one, then you are still out. Some people say that they are in, but really they are still out. You see, you are born into Christ, not signed into Him. Shaking the preacher's hand or filling out a membership form doesn't put you in Christ. Attending church every Sunday is not a guarantee that you are in. Even the religious folks in Jesus day went to church and were still out. Jesus called them vipers. He told Nicodemus that we must be born again of the water and the Spirit. Paul said that if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature, old things are passed away and behold all things become new. When we are in Christ, there is a totally different attitude about who we are and where we are heading. We become trees of life and our fruit produces life. So are you in or out?

Sing: Born again, there has been a change in me. Born again, just like Jesus said. Born again and all because of Calvary. I'm so glad, that I've been born again.

2012 February 9 - Morning Manna

Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into his rest, any of you should seem to come short of it. For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. (Hebrews 4:1-2)

Today's Morsel: The book of Hebrews is called by some the book of better things. The theme of this whole book is the word "Better". The word better appears 13 time in this book. Here are just a few: A better hope (Hebrews 7:19); A better testament (Hebrews 7:22); A better covenant and promise (Hebrews 8:6); A better sacrifice (Hebrews 9:23); A better substance (Hebrews 10:34); A better country (Hebrews 11:16). And the writer closes out the 11th chapter, which is the faith chapter, by saying, "And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect" (Hebrews 11:39-40). He said that God has provided some better thing for us. It is call the Holy Ghost! Nothing is better than the Holy Ghost. Because it is the Spirit of God within us. It is Christ in you, the hope of glory. It is the spirit of the true and living God. Many today hear the Word of God, but they have problems with believing. Faith is believing. Jesus said that all things are possible to him that can believe. So that lets me know that when I hear the Word of God, I have to mix my faith with what I hear in order for things to be better for me.

Sing: There's a country far beyond the starry skies, there's a city where there never comes a night, if we are faithful we will go there by and by, tis the city where the Lamb is the Light.

In the city where the Lamb is the Light. In the city where there cometh no night, I've a mansion over there, and we're free from toil and care, tis the city where the Lamb in the light.

2012 February 8 - Morning Manna

Where is then the blessedness ye spake of? for I bear you record, that, if it had been possible, ye would have plucked out your own eyes, and have given them to me. Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? (Galatians 4:15-16)

Today's Morsel: Often when we hear the word "Foes" we immediately think of those who are our enemies. When we trace throughout history and wars, we could identify our enemies and those who were suppose to be our allies. But in today's wars, this spiritual battle, the enemy has become hard to identify. Some say that they are our allies, only to find out that they are our foes. And when it comes to the church, our enemy seems to be hard to identify. But Jesus said, you shall know them by their fruit. When Jesus told the parable of the wheat and the tares, scripture says, " Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed in his field: But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares among the wheat, and went his way. But when the blade was sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares also. So the servants of the householder came and said unto him, Sir, didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn" (Matthew 13:24-30). Notice that Jesus said, that the enemy has done this; but let them grow together and in the end, I will gather the tares and cast them into the fire. "For such are false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ. And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light. Therefore it is no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works" Paul said, (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). Yes, we have enemies. And yes, they are in the church. "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" (Jude 1:20-23).

Sing: I'm a soldier, in God's army, and I'm fighting, claiming victory. I will not give up, I will not turn around, I'm a soldier marching heaven bound.

2012 February 7 - Morning Manna

The word which came to Jeremiah from the LORD, saying, Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it. Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying, O house of Israel, cannot I do with you as this potter? saith the LORD. Behold, as the clay is in the potter's hand, so are ye in mine hand, O house of Israel. (Jeremiah 18:1-6)

Today's Morsel: The potter makes vessels. They take clay and pound it and smash it until it's soft enough to put on the potter's wheel so they can mold and make the desired vessel. He pounds it and adds water to soften it. The potter already knows what he desires to make before the clay is ever placed on the potter's wheel. But it's that initial process when he must work with the clay to get it to the right softness which will allow him to be able to easily form what he desires to make. Have you every prayed, "Lord put me back on the potter's wheel?" What about, "God, whatever it takes to make me more like you, do it." Sometimes in our emotions of hype in services, we can see those things in our lives that aren't like Him, and so we may present such a request. And when God obliges, we may wonder why the test. The Lord sent Jeremiah down to the potter's house so that he could view the potter. And then God told him that He could change Israel again if they would allow Him. The vessel is always in the potter's hand. The clay doesn't ask the potter what he's doing, even though it may hurt or be abrasive. We, like the clay, should realize that all things work together to the good to them that love God (Romans 8:28). Paul told Timothy, "But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (2 Timothy 2:20-21). God knows what He wants your life to be like, so let Him mold you into His image the same as he did Adam. "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul" (Genesis 2:7).

Sing: He's changing me, my blessed Savior, I'm not the same person that I used to be, well it's been slow going, but there's a knowing, that someday perfect I will be.

2012 February 6 - Morning Manna

Jesus answered them, and said, My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself. (John 7:16-17)

Today's Morsel: I'm amazed at the number of people who don't know the doctrine of Jesus Christ. Not only that, I'm amazed at the number of people who don't even know what their church believes and teaches. Yet, they will all tell you that they know truth. I'm not being critical here, but one would think that if a person is attending a church and call it their church, and that the personb that heads the assembly is their pastor, they would at least know his/her name and what they stand for. Paul said that we are to know them that labor amongst us. I've heard people say, those people are Oneness; or they are Trinitarians; or they are Pentecostal; they are Apostolic; they are Protestant; they Mormon; they are Catholic, etc. But what does all that mean when it comes to doctrine? Nothing. Doctrine is the basic teaching and belief that one holds to be true. Doctrine serves two purposes. First, to ensure you are in compliance with higher instructions, and second, to enforce the standard. As Paul told Timothy, "As I besought thee to abide still at Ephesus, when I went into Macedonia, that thou mightest charge some that they teach no other doctrine" (1 Timothy 1:3), and to "Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee"(1 Timothy 4:16). He told the church at Rome, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them" (Romans 16:17). Jesus said, "My doctrine is not mine, but his that sent me. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself." If anyone knew the doctrine of Jesus, it was the apostle Paul. So what was Jesus' doctrine? "And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high"(Luke 24:46-49). "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call" (Acts 2:38-39). So it really doesn't matter what you call yourself, the question is, are you in the doctrine of Jesus Christ and His apostles.

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

2012 February 4 - Morning Manna

And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect. And I will make my covenant between me and thee, and will multiply thee exceedingly. (Genesis 17:1-2)

Today's Morsel: The Encarta Dictionary defines "Perfection" as:  the quality of something that is as good or as suitable as it can possibly be. Somebody or something that reaches the highest attainable standard, or an instance of this . Other words for perfection are: excellence, faultlessness, rightness, flawlessness, aptness and suitability.  The word "Perfection" means to reach the highest attainable standard. To become complete. To mature.  So what is the highest standard?  To be like Jesus.  The Lord told Abraham at ninety nine years old to walk before Him and be perfect, and that He would make the covenant between them and that He would multiply him exceedingly.  Perfection isn't hard to obtain.  It just requires us to purpose in our hearts to do what is right.  It requires not compromising our integrity.  Job was called a perfect and upright man because he retained his integrity at all cost.  Perfection requires us to allow the Word of God to be living in our lives and that we walk the same as He walked (1 John 2:6). Paul said that God gave us the fivefold ministry for the perfecting of the saints.  Since faith comes by hearing the Word of God, and we overcome by our faith, and without faith it is impossible to please God, if we are going to become perfect, we need to be in a place where Truth is preached and instructions to grow in Christ are highly encouraged.

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.

2012 February 3 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:  Last year, a young lady from our College Crew said that she had to write a poem about the snow.  I told her that I would write it for her.  And so I did.  She was so surprised that I did it. But she chose not to use it, because she knew that she couldn't turn in someone else's writings as her own.  I told her that I really appreciated her integrity.  Let me share what I wrote with you.

Have you entered into the treasure of the snow? With all its beauty, white, glistening, and all aglow?

One flake, two flakes, thousands and more, one flake upon another, compact together all of its kind when joined together the beauty we can all find.

When we join together as the beauty of snow, our unity is seen by those who may not yet know.

Snow  is clean, pure, and white the way our hearts will be when we do what is right.

Have you entered in to the treasure of the snow? What treasure can there be? A pearl, a diamond, or a golden ring?  No one really knows but our master and king.

I wonder what is hidden in the treasure of the snow? I'll just keep on searching until someday I will know.

  

Sing: He is fairer than the lily of the valley, He is brighter than the morning star, He is purer than the snow, fresher than the breeze, lovelier than all of these.

2012 February 2 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:  Opportunity. How many times would you say that you have allowed the opportunity to tell someone about Jesus pass you by?  An opportunity is a chance, an opening, a break, or prospect.  We are all given the same opportunities when it comes to the things of God. But often we allow those opportunities to slip by.  Someone said that opportunity only knocks once.  Solomon said, "I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all" (Ecclesiastes 9:11).  He said everybody has the same chance to win and be a winner.  Scripture said of Jesus, "And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place where it was written, The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord"(Luke 4:16-19).  Here was an opportunity for them to have every sickness healed, every weakness made strong, every problem solved, and every life restored.  And yet, they kicked Him out.  They let their opportunity pass them by. And the Bible said that He did not many miracles in His own hometown because of their unbelief (Matthew 13:58). What about you?  Are you going to let the opportunity pass you by this year and not tell someone about Jesus.  Are you going to let the opportunity pass you by to teach a home Bible study to someone?  What about doing something in  your church or supporting a missionary?  Remember, opportunity only knocks once; so don't miss your chance.

 

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

2012 February 1 - Morning Manna

"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" (Ruth 1:16-18)

Today's Morsel: Many people today seem to have lost their commitment. We hear that divorce rates in the church are as close to or as high as that in the world. Why does it seem that there is little or no commitment to marriage vows?  Why does it seem that too few are committed to the Gospel?  Commitment always gives back to commitment.  What would you say was the driving factor that made Ruth committed?  Was she committed to her vows?  Was her commitment to obey God's Word?  Did her husband tell her about his home land and his people and she wanted to see it?  Did she see that going to a new place would give her a better opportunity to start fresh and anew?  Did she know that God was with the children of Israel?  Just what drove her commitment to her mother-in-law?  The Apostle Paul was a committed man.  What would you say was his driving factor?  What about Daniel being committed to pray?  Or Joseph willing to run rather than to sin against God?  Did they each make a personal commitment to God. Did Paul vow to preach the Gospel at all cost?  Did  Daniel have a personal agreement with God.  Or  was Joseph  taught by Jacob, his father?  All four of their lives were at stake, yet they still chose to continue on, why?  They show us great commitment, yet believers today have such a hard time with commitment?  What would you say that each of us can do to maintain our commitment to God and what He has called us to do?  If you will notice all four of them first made a commitment to themselves. Results of commitment are usually in proportion to commitment.  For example:

1.  In our personal evangelism, we fail more for lack of commitment than lack of methods.

2.  In our marriages, we often fail to keep commitments because what we made was not really a commitment, but only a  "We'll give it a try" contract that virtually insures failure.

3. In our effort at personal improvement, we do not get any better results than we do because we make such watered-down commitment.

What commitment comes down to is whether we trust the Lord enough to obey Him.

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