2012 March 31 - Morning Manna

And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORDbefore Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was noopen vision" (1 Samuel 3:1)

Today'sMorsel:  How much value do you put on memorizing theWord of God.  Amos tells us, "Behold,the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not afamine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD"(Amos8:11).  The Lord said through the prophet Hosea, "My people are destroyedfor lack of knowledge "(Hosea 4:6). ) Solomon said, "Where there is no vision, the people perish"(Proverbs29:18).  And Samuel said, "That the word of the Lord was precious becausethere was no open vision."  The people hadno direction. When something is precious, it is dear to you. You value it withyour whole heart. The Word of the Lord should be precious to us.  We should do everythingin our power to hold on to it.  The Word of God is a light unto our feet and a lightunto our pathway.  It is a comfort in our times of affliction.  So the next time you are facing a low pointin your life, ask yourself, what scripture could I quote to myself right nowthat would give me strength and encouragement to carry me through what I'mgoing through.  If you can't think of one, if you cannot quote one, or don't have one that comes to mind,the Word may not be too precious to you, and you may wan to spend more time hiding it in your heart through memorization and meditating on it.  Remember, it was the Word that Jesus  used to defeat Satan.  Let me encourageyou, hide the Word in your heart because trials will come.  Ask Job!   And thebetter prepared you are with the Word of God, the more likely you are to survivethe test.

Sing: Deeper, deeper in the love of Jesus, daily let me go,higher, higher, in the school of wisdom more of grace to know.

O' deeper yet, I pray, and higher, everyday, andwiser, blessed Lord, in thy precious holy word.

2012 March 30 - Morning Manna

And after the reading of the law and the prophets the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on. (Acts 13:15)

Today's Morsel: Encouragement is one of those spiritual gifts that is used very little in the church today. Yet it should be used by all those who are born again. Words that edify, lift up, and build up, help us stay focused and on the right path. Our messages of encouragement must not become a substitute for the Gospel in order to make people feel good. If I make you feel good but do not give you anything to hold on to, you will soon be back into the dumps. Truly, the Gospel is the most encouraging message and words that one can receive. Just knowing that Jesus died for us, can change a person's life. Paul tells us that the servant of the Lord must be gentle (2 Timothy 2:24-26). After they read of the law and the prophets, the rulers of the synagogue sent unto them, saying, "Ye men and brethren, if ye have any word of exhortation for the people, say on." Well my word of exhortation for you today is this: WOW! Now say it backwards.

Now go and tell someone: WOW! You look good. WOW that was a good meal. WOW! You did a great job. WOW! I had lots of fun. WOW! I can't wait to get to heaven to see Jesus. WOW! That was a great message.

Sing: Lord lift me up and let me stand, by faith on heaven's table land, A higher plane than I have found, Lord plant my feet on higher ground.

2012 March 29 - Morning Manna

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. (1 John 4:18)

Today's Morsel: What would you say is the number one thing you are afraid of? When I was young, I was afraid of Roller Coasters, Ferris Wheels, and the Bullet ride at the carnival. But over a period of time, I was able to convince myself as President Roosevelt said, "All we have to fear is fear itself." Fear, John said, torments us. In other words, it causes pain, suffering, distress and anguish. If you allow it, fear will drive you bonkers. John tells us that he that feareth is not made perfect in love. He also tells us that God is love. "He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love"(1 John 4:8). So if we fear, we have an avoidance of God in our lives. And John again tells us, "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). God is greater than all our fears. Because we are His children, we should not fear. So fret no little flock because God is perfect and God is love, and if we allow Him to be in us, fear will have to depart from our lives. God doesn't give us fear but love, power, and a sound mind.

Sing: He's bigger than all my problems, bigger than all my fears, he is bigger than anything this world can or cannot see.

2012 March 28 - Morning Manna

The LORD is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him  (Nahum 1:7).

Today's Morsel: Do you really trust God? Do you trust God more than man or yourself? The psalmist tells us, "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man" (Psalms 118:8). How long are you willing to wait for God to come through for you, before you turn to man? When Saul saw the multitude of the Philistine, out of fear he took matters into his own hands instead of waiting for the prophet to come do the sacrifices. Fear will cause you to not trust in God. Fear will cause you to take matters into your own hands. To trust God is to wait upon Him at all cost. Nahum said that the Lord knows them that trust him. So when we say that we trust God are we being truthful to ourselves? I believe that one of the problema with us not trusting in the Lord is that we ask God, but we already have our preconceived ideas as to how it should be done. God's ways aren't our ways. If they were we would not need faith. Faith is the substance of things hoped for. For example, when we are sick, we may pray or have someone pray for us for healing, but because we don't immediately see the tangible answer, we don't believe that God is doing or has done anything for us. And so over a period of time, we begin to trust man over God. I believe every word that God says in His Word. I believe that when we pray, things are happening on our behalf. We just need to cling to the Scripture and believe that His grace is sufficient for me and that all things are working together for my good. I don't think that God will be mad or upset with us if we take the initiative in trying to fix things we are facing or our own problems, trusting Him for the wisdom and strength needed. David encourages us, "The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion; Now know I that the LORD saveth his anointed; he will hear him from his holy heaven with the saving strength of his right hand" (Psalms 20:1-2;6). The word "Trust" has the word "Us" in it. Therefore, it takes "US" to bring about "Trust."

Sing: I trust in God, wherever I may be, upon the land or on the raging sea, for come what may, from day to day, my Heavenly Father watches over, over me.

2012 March 27 - Morning Manna

O sing unto the LORD a new song: sing unto the LORD, all the earth. Sing unto the LORD, bless his name; show forth his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the heathen, his wonders among all people. For the LORD isgreat, and greatly to be praised: he is to be feared above all gods (Psalms 96:1-4).

Today's Morsel: They say that the humpback whale is not only known for his acrobatic abilities to display great maneuvers in the water, but also for his ability to sing. They say that his sound can reach from 20-9000 megahertz and that the deeper that he goes, the louder he can sound and sing. The humpback has been recorded not only singing the same song, but many new songs and tones. Are you singing the same old tone? Does your daily song begin with the words, “Woe is me?” Is your song, “Gloom despair and agony on me, deep, dark depression, excessive misery, if it wasn’t for bad luck I’d have to luck at all, gloom despair and agony on me?” Is it why is everybody always picking on me? Is it, they’ve offended me, so I’m not going back? Is it, I don’t have the money and nothing to wear? Is it, my spouse won’t help me with the kids? Is it, I have to work and I’m tired? Is it, you’ve picked a find time to leave me Lucille? Well, if these are the songs you’ve been singing, it’s time to stand flat on your feet and come up with a new song. Maybe you need to do some acrobatic maneuvers in the waters of affliction and rivers of depression. Maybe you need to go a little deeper and sing a littler louder. The Psalmist said that the Lord wants to hear a new song. God wants to hear a song of praise and adoration for His goodness. God is not a gloom and doom God, and His children are not to be a bunch of gloom and doom Christians. Paul said that we need to speak to ourselves in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in our hearts unto the Lord; giving thanks always for all things unto God the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 4:19-20). It’s time that we realize that great is the Lord and that He is greatly to be praised. He has given you a garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. He has clothed you with a cloke of zeal, and it’s time to declare His glory among the heathen and His wonders among all the people. God doesn’t want to hear a gloom song; He wants to hear a new song of praise. In the 80’s, Diana Ross made a song that said, “I’m coming out.” Well, if you are still in the gloom and doom, you need to look yourself in the mirror and say, I’m coming out and I’m going to sing a new song. For the LORD is great, and greatly to be praised: He is to be feared above all gods. For I know that His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches over me. He’ll pick you up if you will let him?

Sing: I sing because I'm happy, I sing because I'm free, His eye is on the Sparrow and I know, He watches over me.

2012 March 26 - Morning Manna

And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life? He said unto him, What is written in the law? how readest thou?And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: this do, and thou shalt live.But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And who is my neighbour
(Luke 10:25-29).

 

Today's Morsel: Why is it that people always want to justify themselves when they don’t want to obey? I mean, they read the same Bible as you, hear the same sermons as you, attend the same church with you, but because they don’t want to obey the Word of God, they want to justify themselves. So they say things like, I don’t think you have to do that to be saved; or I don’t think I have to get rid of that from my life to be saved; I can dress and wear what I want; I can go where I please and listen to what I want. They want to justify themselves. Paul tells us to walk in the Spirit and we will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. You see, the flesh wars against the Spirit. So when one desires to justify themselves, they are trying to appease the flesh not the Spirit. Remember, you are justified in the Name of the Lord Jesus and the Spirit of our God, (1 Corinthians 6:11) not the flesh. My prayers are with you for Spiritual justification!

Sing: Search me, O God, and know my heart today; try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray: see if there be some wicked way in me: cleanse me from every sin, and set me free.

2012 March 24 - 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? (Exodus 15:22-24)

Today's Morsel: What things make you bitter?  Do what others say and do to you make you bitter?  Do politics make you bitter?  Do people at church make you bitter?  What about co-workers?  The children of Israel could not drink the water because they were bitter.  Naomi changed her name to Marah because she was bitter.  Often, when things don’t go our way, we can become bitter.  Been there and I’ve even got a t-shirt to prove it.  The body craves for water.  Nothing quenches the thirst like water.  Jesus said he would be in you a well of water springing up unto eternal life. But if you are bitter, (in other words, harsh and cruel) then no one can drink from you.  This is why we have to watch our attitudes, what we partake of, and with whom we partake with. When a person is thirsty for spiritual things, they are going to look for the living water.  On that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried and said, if any man thirst let him come unto me and drink.  For out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water, but this spake he of the spirit, that they which believed on him would receive (John 7:37-39).  Has anyone been to you for a drink lately?  Remember, you attract more flies with honey them vinegar. So stay sweet!

  

Sing: How sweet the living waters from the hills of God, it makes me glad and happy all the way; now glory grace and blessing, mark the path I’ve trod, I’m shouting “hallelujah” every day.

Chorus:  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.

2012 March 23 - Morning Mana

But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.(Romans 13:14).

Today's Morsel: Do you have trouble deciding what you are going to wear?  I know of people who have attended classes on “colors” so that what they wear, highlights their skin complexion; so that the attire they wear will make them look good.  This is a highly paid professional business these days.  Dress for success they say.  In other words, wear the right attire when you are going looking for that high paying job and you just might get hired; and once you get the job, where the right clothes for the position to portray your professionalism. Paul said that we are to put on the Lord Jesus Christ and make not provision for the flesh. How do we put of Christ?  Well, he tells us in Galatians 3:27 that as many as have been baptized into Christ, have put on Christ.  So since you have on Christ, how should you look? Well, some think that your outward attire does not matter.  Let me ask you a question? If you were going to interview for a high paying job, would you wear a pair of Daisy Dukes, hot shorts, or short pants?  What about a T-shirt that says, “Born to be Wild?” What about a Mini Skirt, or pants with the knees missing?  What about body piercing, or tattoos visible for everyone to see?  You see, when you put on Christ, people must be able to see Christ in you. And that means even your outward appearance.  Jeremiah was told to put the evidence in an earthen vessel.  Some of it was sealed and some of it was open.  However, what was sealed was the same as that which was open.  How’s your attitude today?  How’s your disposition? What’s outward should be what is inside; and what is on the inside should also be showing on the outside.  The fruit of the Spirit should be seen from without, as the Holy Ghost is suppose to be what is within.  Remember, you only get one chance to make a first impression on someone else.

Sing: I’ve got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, Oh! What a change in my life; I’ve got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, Oh, what a change in my life; I’ve got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, Oh, what a change in my life, Oh what a change, in my life.

2012 March 22 - Morning Mana

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident.One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to inquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.  Psalm 27:1-6

Today's Morsel: Do you have the gotta wanna?  It means you’ve got to want to.  You gotta wanna serve God.  You’ve gotta wanna be in church.  You've gotta wanna make it to heaven. You’ve gotta wanna live holy for Jesus.  You've gotta wanna labor in his vineyard.  You’ve gotta wanna see your marriage work. You’ve gotta wanna see your kids know their memory verses.  You’ve gotta wanna see others and yourself grow in Christ.

  

David had the gotta wanna.  He only desired one thing, and he said that that would be what he sought for.  His one desire was that he may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of his life.  When you have the gotta wanna, Paul said that nothing will be able to stop you from testifying of the gospel of grace of the Lord Jesus Christ.  When the gotta wanna gets into your soul, nothing shall be able to separate you from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.  The way you get and keep the gotta wanna in you, is always remembering Calvary.  Don’t forget, you’ve got to have the gotta wanna!

Sing: I’m gonna serve the Lord anyway that can; I’m gonna serve the Lord any way that I can, I’ll serve Him in the morning, serve Him all day long, I’m gonna serve the Lord anyway that I can.

2012 March 21 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:  Do you ever find yourself being critical of other's prayer life and style of prayer?  When I first became a Christian, I felt many people were being showy with their prayer life by their continuous praying out loud in tongues, raising their voices loud when calling out people's names and needs in their prayers.  There were even times that I felt that people weren't praying long enough, and that most of them weren’t even serious about prayer.  People would come for prayer, kneel down for a few moments, and up talking within a matter of minutes.  So I was critical of their prayer life.  You know, I found myself thinking I was more spiritual than they were.  I mean, I was at a higher level in my prayer life than they were and there was no way that their little prayers were getting through to God.  They just didn’t seem to pray long enough in my eye.  This might have all been true, but God checked me.  In God's eyes, my attitude about prayer and other's prayers  stunk.  We should never become critical of another persons prayer life or their style of prayer, nor should we try to fit others into our mold of prayer.  A square peg, as my son always says, is not going to fit into a round hole.  Scripture says that we must all work out our own salvation, and I believe that that even includes our prayer life.  Remember, it’s not how long you pray, when you pray, where you pray, nor how loud you pray; it’s your attitude when you pray that God is concerned with.  My prayers are with you today!

Sing:  Whisper a prayer in the morning, whisper a prayer at noon, whisper a prayer in the evening, to keep your heart in tune.

 

2012 March 20 - Morning Manna

Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? ²For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. ³He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. ⁴Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. ⁵But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. ⁶All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. ⁷He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. ⁸He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken (Isaiah 53:1-8).

Today's Morsel:  Most Christians understand that these scriptures pertain to Jesus Christ.  This is the same passage of scripture the Eunuch in the desert was reading; (Acts 8 verses 26-40) when the Spirit of the Lord sent Philip the evangelist to him. When we as Christian read these verses, they should encourage us, since we are always encouraged to consider Jesus when we are going through things in our lives (Hebrews 12:3).  Rejections, afflictions, sorrow, grief, bruises, pain, and suffering should make us rejoice.  Isaiah asked us another question, "Who shall declare his generation?"  How aware are you of Jesus’ generation?  Do you know what He did while He was upon the earth?  Do you know any of the miracles that He performed while here?  Do you know who He is?  Are you aware of the power of His resurrection?  In order to be an effective witness for Jesus, we must know His birth, life, death, and resurrection. This is all covered in the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Jesus said that we are His witnesses and His servant whom He had chosen that we may know and believe that He is God (Isaiah 43:10-12).  We are also called to be His witnesses to the whole world.  Are you being effective in what He’s chosen you to do?  Let’s declare to our world who Jesus is.  It’s time we allow freedom to ring.  And it began with declaring to the world who Jesus was.  If I be lifted up from the earth, I will draw all men unto me, Jesus said. The only way one can be set free is through a relationship with Jesus.

Sing: Everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, who Jesus is (2x). He’s the Lily of the valley, He’s the Bright and Morning Star, He’s the fairest of ten thousand, everybody ought to know.

2012 March 19 - Morning Manna

After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I amthy shield, and thy exceeding great reward (Genesis 15:1).

Today's Morsel: When we look into scripture, we see that often times those that were called by God were sometimes fearful to obey what God was asking them to do. God, our Creator, knows this and so constantly throughout scripture He offers unto us His reassurance that He is there with us. Maybe Abraham questioned God as to what kind of protection he would have and what his reward would be if he did what God was asking him to do. This is nothing new. As humans, there is something inside all of us that sometimes causes us to fear the unknown and we also want to know what we’ll get for doing what others ask us to do. You know, the proverbial "What’s in it for me?" God was asking Abraham to leave his comfort zone, to leave his own country. How do you feel when you need to step out of your comfort zone? There is something about the unknown that grips us. Wanting to give Abraham reassurance, God said unto him, “I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward.” In other words, God was saying, "Don’t worry Abraham; I’m with you and I’ll protect you and bless you."

Since we are the seed of Abraham, those same promises are for you and me today. If you have been thinking about doing a work for the Lord this year, don’t fear. God is with you. He’s right beside you every step of the way. Don’t worry what kind of reward you’ll receive, just to be in His presence and look upon His face will be worth it all.

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

2012 March 17 - Morning Manna

In the fear of the LORD is strong confidence: and his children shall have a place of refuge. The fear of the LORD is a fountain of life, to depart from the snares of death (Proverbs 14:26-27).

Today's Morsel: Do you ever wonder why there is so much talk in scripture about fear? There are different kinds of fear. T here is the “Fear” that torments according to 1 John 4:18. There is that “fear” that is not given from God according to 2 Timothy 1:7. And then there is the “fear” of reverence spoken about here. Now let’s look at these verses for a moment. When we understand the position of God; King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Master, Mighty God, Father, Prince of Peace, and Creator; we can see that His position requires honor. In the military, when a general or admiral enters into a building, they are shown reverence by someone calling everyone to attention. Not for the person, but for the rank and the position they hold. When we reverence the Lord, Solomon said, it brings about strong confidence and a fountain of life. And not only does it give us these things, but when our children see us reverencing God, they too will learn that they have a place of refuge and strength to keep them from the snares of death. Always remember, the best training tool is to set the example.

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

2012 March 16 - Morning Manna

Now the LORD had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee: And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing: And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed. So Abram departed, as the LORD had spoken unto him; and Lot went with him: and Abram was seventy and five years old when he departed out of Haran. And Abram took Sarai his wife, and Lot his brother’s son, and all their substance that they had gathered, and the souls that they had gotten in Haran; and they went forth to go into the land of Canaan; and into the land of Canaan they came. And Abram passed through the land unto the place of Sichem, unto the plain of Moreh. And the Canaanite was then in the land. And the LORD appeared unto Abram, and said, Unto thy seed will I give this land: and there builded he an altar unto the LORD, who appeared unto him. And he removed from thence unto a mountain on the east of Bethel, and pitched his tent, having Bethel on the west, and Hai on the east: and there he builded an altar unto the LORD, and called upon the name of the LORD. And Abram journeyed, going on still toward the south (Gen 12:1-8).

Today's Morsel: How long have you been waiting for your promise from God? Are you aware that Abraham received his promise at 75 years old but did not have a son until he was 100 years old? That is 25 years later. That kind of sheds some light on why he and Sarah didn't wait on God!

We, too, are often times like Abraham and Sarah and take matters into our hands after a long time of waiting. But we must learn patience. Not that you should pray for it. I’m sure Abraham felt that his promise would happen within a few years after God told him, since he was obedient and departed when God ask him to. Even today, some ministers close their church doors and go somewhere else because they knew that they heard from God to start a church in a certain area, but it just didn’t happen in their timing and so their patience runs out. It has been said that patience is a virtue. I read some facts in my devotion the other day and would like to share it with you: "It takes an unborn elephant 22 months to mature to birth. The shark known as the spiny dogfish has a pregnancy of 22-24 months. And at the elevation of 4600 feet, the Alpine Salamander endures a gestational period of up to 38 months." I can’t think of any woman that would like to be pregnant that long, do you? Paul said that even nature teaches us. We must always remember that God’s ways and His timing are not according to our scale. Friend, if you have a promise from God, just hold on. It will come to pass, even if you have to wait 25 years - or longer.

Sing: The Lord of my life, he has never failed, on my own I could never succeed; this one I came to know, there’s so much I owe, and I cannot fail the Lord.

2012 March 15 - Morning Manna

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ (Ephesians 4:11-15).

Today's Morsel:  I am thankful that God didn’t set an age limit on what it would take for one to grow in Him. When we realize that we all get on the train at a different stop in this life, and that each of us determine our own spiritual growth, we then must realize that we are the ones that set our own limits as to how high we will go in Christ. The prophets of old said that God would make our feet like hinds feet and cause us to walk upon our high places. Spiritual growth takes you to a higher level. When you study God's Word and apply it to your life, you grow and move to a higher plateau. We are commanded to study to show ourselves approved unto God, workmen that needeth not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). One of the ways to determine a mature saint of God is through their love and commitment toward the things of God. The storms of life do not shake them, and fear doesn’t grip them. They are as bold as a lion with love and patience. They walk with confidence and they know where they are heading. The cares of the world don’t drag them down and they are willing to do what is asked of them for the kingdom of God. We must not just grow in Him in somethings, but we must grow in Him in all things. What rung of the ladder are your hands on today? If you think you are at the top, then turn around and help someone else up.

Sing: Deeper, higher, everyday in Jesus, daily let me go; higher, higher, in the school of wisdom, more of grace to know.

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

2012 March 14 - Morning Manna

For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God (Hebrews 3:4).

Today's Morsel: Do you ever stop and consider the amount of time and work that went into the home that you now live in. It all began with a thought. And that thought was placed on paper and drawn to scale called a blue print. The blue print was handed to man called a builder and that builder was hired to ensure it met the specifications of the blue print. So the builder hired carpenters, electricians, plumbers, and masons to get the job done. Much time and effort just to please you. We can look at this and go wow! But none of the items they used were created by the builder or the people that he hired. From the human that does the work, to the materials that were used, they were all made by God. John said that all things were made by Him and without Him was not anything made that were made (John 1:3). Jesus has made all things. The psalmist said, "Except the LORD builds the house, they labour in vain that build it" (Psalms 127:1). As temples of God, Paul said, we must be careful how we build. Our structure will be tested to see how we’ve built. The story is told of a father who owned a building company and his son was his helper. One day the father placed his son in charge and gave him the details for the construction of a new home. The son decided to take shortcuts and use cheaper materials to save money and cost. When the home was finished he showed it to his father. The father asked him if he was proud of the home he had built. Smiling from ear to ear, the son said, “Yes sir!” The father handed him the keys and said, "Good because this in your new home." We must not take short cuts, but stay in the straight and narrow way. We all need the Lord to prefect us. If He’s not the one that’s building us, we will surely fall.

Sing:Now I belong to Jesus, Jesus belongs to me, not for the years of time along, but for eternity.

2012 March 13 - Morning Manna

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you (Philippians 4:8-9).

Today's Morsel: I’ll give you a penny for your thoughts! What are you thinking right now? Would I waste my penny if you were to sell your thoughts to me? I saw a little boy's t-shirt the other day that said, “I’m not ignoring you; I’m just in deep thought.” We are commanded to bring every thought into the obedience of Christ. Joseph's brothers called him a dreamer every time they saw him coming. Joseph's mind must have been filled with many thoughts from his dreams. I’m sure many of his thoughts were on the Lord. Like David, when you get an understanding of the Lord and His goodness, you can’t help but think good thoughts about Jesus. Maybe that is where the song comes from that says, “When I think of the goodness of Jesus and all He’s done for me, my soul cries out hallelujah and I think God for saving me.” The apostle Paul said that we should think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of a good report, those things of virtue and praise. When you think of Jesus, all of these things should run through your mind. Remember, the mind is a terrible thing to waste, especially if you are a Christian. Isaiah said that He will keep you in perfect peaces whose mind is stayed upon Him, because you trust in Him (Isaiah 26:3). Where’s your mind? Keep it on Jesus or you may stumble.

Sing: I’ve got a made up mind, I’ve got a final destination; I’m gonna keep on pressing on, to my final destination, gonna burn all the bridges behind me, break all the ties that bind me, I’m gonna keep on pressing on, til I reach that home sweet home, the new Jerusalem.

2012 March 12 - Morning Manna

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints (Ephesians 6:10-18).

Today's Morsel: The U.S. Military has spent much on insuring that its soldiers have the right equipment to protect them in times of war. They know that warfare is nasty business. Lives are lost and people get hurt. The enemy isn’t about to take it easy on on them. Therefore, much is spent to ensure that the soldier is well equipped and prepare for battle. They know that the right equipment can help save a soldier'slife. Knowing this, the apostle Paul tell the Christian soldier to put on the whole armor of God that they, too, can stand against the tricks, schemes, and fiery dart of the devil. Our Commander in Chief, Jesus, wants us to be protected. He has provided us with the best equipment to protect us, so don’t take these pieces of armor lightly. Put them on, keep them on, and use them to fight the battle. They are designed to protect your soul. Are you equiped? Are you ready for battle? Can you endure hardness as a good soldier of the Lord.

Sing: For above all else, I must be saved; for above all else, I must be saved; Lord, whatever you have to do to me, don’t let me be lost for eternity; for above all else, I must be saved.

2012 March 10 - Morning Manna

Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant" (1 Corinthians 7:21-22).

Today's Morsel: The Granite state, New Hampshire, has on its license plate, “Live Free or Die.” What an interesting motto! These plates are being stamped out day by day by men who are in captivity serving prison terms for crimes they’ve committed, or maybe not have committed. You must not misconstrue what I’m saying when I speak of living free. You see, in the sixties and seventies, this was the way of life for most people. They lived free. In other words they did whatever they wanted. They stood on the premise that no one could tell them what to do. This is my life, they said, and I'll live the way I want to. If it feels good, do it, was their attitude. And that attitude has spilled over in to today’s generation of young people and sin is running ramped throughout the land. Paul said that if we are servants of the Lord, then we are His freeman. Nothing should have us captivated nor hold us captive. Nothing should have us bound. Even our past should be wiped away (2 Corinthians 5:17). Don’t go back to the old ways; you have to live free; rid of worldly lust; having and avoiding all ungodliness in your life or you will die. I believe the reason some people don’t remain free spiritually but return to the ways of the world is because they don’t know truth. They dip and dab in truth, but they never become a doer of the truth and apply it fully to their life. Like the children of Israel, they want to return to the world. In Korea, on the DMZ , there is a bridge called,“The Bridge of No Return.” At the end of the Korean war and the signing of the armistice, they traded prisoners. Each prisoner could cross over that bridge to freedom or stay in North Korea and be a communist and have no freedom. But once you crossed, there would be no going back. I want you to know today, that Jesus has laid a bridge for you to cross over to freedom. The Gospel is the bridge that brings you into freedom. But you have to walk across from your sins, your hurts, your loneliness, and the problems of your past. It is your choice. Scripture says, "I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live" (Deuteronomy 30:19). Are you the Lord's servant? Then you are His freeman. So live free or die.

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 March 9 - Morning Manna

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. John 14:1

Today's Morsel: Is your mind ever troubled. Do you find yourself worrying and being concerned about many things? Well, Jesus is the antidote for your troubled mind. Webster defines an antidote as: A remedy or other agent used to neutralize or counteract the effects of a poison. A troubled mind can be poison. It can begin to spread through your system like wild fire. A troubled mind can affect every area of your body if not taken care of immediately. Sleeplessness; aches; pain; loss of focus; weird dreams; perplexity; and despair can eat away at your thoughts like a canker. Many people today are suffering from troubled minds. Do I or Don’t I; Shouldn’t I or Should I; Do I buy or Don't I buy; Do I go or stay; Do I tell or don’t I tell. Joel said, "Multitudes, multitudes in the valley of decision: for the day of the Lord is near in the valley of decision"( Joel 3:14). We must follow the apostle Paul's advice and bring every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ (2 Corinthians 12:5). Remember, the mind is a terrible thing to waste. You need it.

Sing: I've got my mind made up to serve the Lord. I've got my mind made up to serve the Lord. I've got my mind made up to serve the Lord. Yes, I've got my mind made up to serve the Lord.

2012 March 8 - Morning Manna

And the angel of God spake unto me in a dream, saying, Jacob: And I said, Here am I. And he said, Lift up now thine eyes, and see, all the rams which leap upon the cattle are ringstraked, speckled, and grisled: for I have seen all that Laban doeth unto thee. I am the God of Bethel, where thou anointedst the pillar, and where thou vowedst a vow unto me: now arise, get thee out from this land, and return unto the land of thy kindred. And Rachel and Leah answered and said unto him, Is there yet any portion or inheritance for us in our father's house?

Today's Morsel: I saw a bumper sticker on a car that said, "We are on vacation and we are spending our kid’s inheritance." In school we were taught if Sally's mother baked a pie and she gave Johnny ¼ of the pie and Billy ¼ of the pie, what portion of the pie did she give them? Of course we would say, ½. What would you say is your portion in the Lord? Have you really considered your portion? As a child of God, what is your portion in the kingdom? You see, the word inheritance comes from the root word inherit. Which means, to come into possession of, or receive, esp., as right of divine portion. Jeremiah said, "The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him" (Lamentations 3:24). Aren't you glad that Jesus is your portion? What are you doing with your portion? Are you sharing it with others? Are you dividing it evenly among the saints when you preach? Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35). The early church,sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all men, as every man had need (Acts 2:45). "Then he said unto them, Go your way, eat the fat, and drink the sweet, and send portions unto them for whom nothing is prepared: for this day is holy unto our Lord: neither be ye sorry; for the joy of the LORD is your strength" (Nehemiah 8:10). How much of are you going to give away? Freely you have received, freely give, Jesus said.

Sing: Give! And it shall be given, good measure pressed down shaken together and running over, give and it shall be given, when you give, you give to the Lord!

2012 March 7 - Morning Manna

"Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean" (John 13:6-11)

Today's Morsel: When the company who developed the cleaning solution "Mr. Clean" began to advertise their product, they came out with a neat little song that said, "Mr. Clean gets rid of dirt and grime and grease in just a minute, Mr. Clean will clean your whole house and everything that’s in it." To me, Jesus is Mr. Clean. He drove out the money changers and those that sold things in the temple (John 2:13-16), He cast out the unclean spirits from the man in the tombs (Mark 5), and He cleanses us by His Word (Psalms 1119:9;John 15:3). Like Peter, many may think that they are clean and don't need Jesus to wash them. They don't realize that they are carrying bad attitudes, hurts, and unclean spirits. But as Jesus told Peter, "If I wash thee not, you have no part with me." The Lord spoke through the prophet Isaiah, "Wash you, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil"(Isaiah 1:16). If you will notice in scripture, before each river crossing, the children of Israel were required to sanctify themselves. They had to become clean. Jesus said that we are clean through the Word (John 15:3). The Word of God has cleansing powers. It’s stronger than Ajax, Comet, 409, and even Mr. Clean. "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart" (Hebrews 4:12). It will get rid of the tough stains of sin. It will remove the hard areas where you just can’t seem to get into. It will get into the cracks in your mind and heart where you just can seem to get the dirt of the world out of. Now is the time to sanctify yourself because sin cannot enter there (heaven).

Sing: Are you washed in the blood, in the soul cleansing blood of the Lamb? Are you garments spotless? Are they white as snow? Are you washed in the blood of the Lamb?

2012 March 6 - Morning Manna

Art thou greater than our father Abraham, which is dead? and the prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself? Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing: it is my Father that honoureth me; of whom ye say, that he is your God: Yet ye have not known him; but I know him: and if I should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you: but I know him, and keep his saying. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yet fifty years old, and hast thou seen Abraham? Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am. John 8:53-58.

Today's Morsel:Clint Eastwood use to say, "Go ahead make my day!" To make someone's day could be to do something nice to them or assist them with whatever project that they are trying to complete. It means to bring about excitement, joy, happiness, or to brighten up someone else life. It may even mean going out of your way to help someone. As Christians, we should always trying to make other's day. Paul said: "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith" (Galatians 6:10). Good comments lift another’s life. Solomon said, "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:1.) As Jackie Gleason would say, "How sweet it is!" Solomon also tells us that everyone enjoys a fitting reply; it is wonderful to say the right thing at the right time! (Proverbs 15:23) We must have the mind of Christ (Philippians 2:5). Jesus went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. James tells us that true religion before God and the father is this to visit the fatherless and widows (James 1:27). I’m sure if I gave each of you a $100 right now, I’d make your day. Some people don’t realize it, but when someone gives you a gift, or says something nice to you, they are trying to make your day. How's your day? Something to realize is that you're day will be great if you go ahead make someone else's day!

Sing: Make me what I ought to be, help me to be more like Thee; bid me come up higher, till Thy face I see; Lord help me be more like Thee.

2012 March 5 - Morning Manna

But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? (Nehemiah 4:1-2.)

Today's Morsel: When we think of reviving someone, our minds automatically think of bringing them back to life or helping them regain their breathing. There's many kinds of CPR. Chest pressure arm-lift method. The Heimlich Maneuver. And Mouth to Mouth resuscitation. When we understand the setting of what is taking place in today's scripture, we can see the need for revival and encouragement. Having received approval from the king to go and rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, Nehemiah and the people which had a mind to work found themselves being tormented by their enemies. Saballat came and mocked the Jews. He said, "What does these feeble Jews?" It was like him saying - what are these weak, frail, shabby, meager, and pathetic saints going to do? You see that’s what the enemy of your soul wants you to think. He wants you to think that you are weak frail, shabby, and pathetic. He wants you to think that there is nothing to you. But John lets us know that greater is he that is in you then he that is in the world. Paul said, when I am weak, than I’m I strong. Saballat asked, will they fortify themselves? In other words will they make themselves strong? Will they strengthen themselves? Will they reinforce themselves? Will they build up themselves? Will they become more secure? Are they going to brace themselves? What are they going to do? What are you going to do when you are trying to build a life like Christ and the enemy of your soul keeps tormenting you? What are you going to do when you keep trying to reestablish the wall around your home and church and the enemy keeps mocking you? Well my friend, my suggestion to you is to do as Nehemiah and say, "I'm not coming off the wall because I've got work to do."

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

202 March 3- Morning Manna

And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt? And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God. (Matthew 14:22-33).

Today's Morsel: Can you worship God in the storm of your life? As we look into the setting of this story, Matthew tells us that John the Baptist is beheaded; the 5000 are fed with 2 fish and 5 loaves; Jesus placed His disciples into a ship to send them to the other side while He goes up into a mountain apart to pray. Matthew records that when evening was come, Jesus was there alone. But the ship the disciples were in is now in the middle of the sea tossed with waves, for the winds were contrary (they were opposing winds, they were fighting waves that they could not control. They were battling the element that they could not do anything about). But notice, Jesus is observing and praying from the mountain top. Jesus is always watching over us. I wonder what He was praying? Maybe that they wouldn't lose their faith in the storm. We don’t get a time line for all that is taking place. However, we do know that it’s just before the break of day, the fourthwatch. Between 3-6 am. If you ever notice in scripture, when Jesus places his disciples in the boat to give them training, the storm always seems to arise when they are in the middle of the sea. It's never near the shore where they depart from, nor is it near the other side where they are heading. It’s in the middle of the sea. Deep water. It is like the place where you will have to make the tough decision. A place that will determine if you are going to continue on or turn back. But the writer of Hebrews tells us, "Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man drawback, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul" (Hebrews 10:38-39). The middle of the sea is a place that will make you or break you. The middle of the sea is a place of fear, because your life is at stake. It is a place of uncertainty. You don’t know if you will live or die. It's a place of perplexity. It causes confusion. It can even cause despair because when you don't see help and you start feeling hopeless. All these things get into your mind because you aren't sure if you are going to make it to the other side or not. This is what storms of life do and why God has designed such situations and circumstances to see if you are really who you say you are. Storms are designed to blow you, turn you, twist you, and rattle you, to see what you and your house are made of. A good ship will always take the storm head on. So my question to you is, can you worship God in the storm? If you can worship Him in the storm, your boat is in pretty good condition, and your eyes are set on the shore you are headed to.

Sing: Master, the tempest is raging, the billows are tossing high; the sky is overshadowed with blackness, no shelter or help is nigh. The wind and the waves shall obey Thy will, peace be still! Peace be still! Whether the wrath of the storm tossed sea, or demons, or men, whatever maybe, no water can swallow the ship where lies, The Master of ocean and earth and skies, they all shall sweetly obey Thy will, peace be still! Peace be still.

2012 March 2 - Morning Manna

So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi? And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me? So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law,with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest. (Ruth 1:19-22)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever feel as though you are running on empty. My friend and I were returning from Milwaukee and his truck kept beeping saying that we were low on gas. I said, do you think we should stop and get some gas? He pushed a button and said, "We can go thirty more miles." Great faith! Me, if it gets down to a quarter, I'm pulling in the station to fill up. Why is it that once we are filled with the Holy Ghost, we sometimes have a hard time remaining full. Has the Holy Ghost left you, or have you left it? The Lord told Jeremiah, "Wherefore I will yet plead with you, saith the LORD, and with your children's children will I plead. For pass over the isles of Chittim, and see; and send unto Kedar, and consider diligently, and see if there be such a thing. Hath a nation changed their gods, which are yet no gods? but my people have changed their glory for that which doth not profit. Be astonished, O ye heavens, at this, and be horribly afraid, be ye very desolate, saith the LORD. For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water"(Jeremiah 2:9-13). Why in the world would anyone choose another God or depart from God? Bethlehem means the city of bread. Even though there was a famine in the land, it was Naomi's husband's own doing to go from the city. Or maybe she talked him into leaving and go to Moab. Some wives have been known to do that! Now she says that she went out full, but returned empty. It amazing how quickly the world will destroy and drain you after you have tasted the fountain of living water and then choose to walk away from it? The world will drain you dry and cause you to be bitter, mad, sad, hurt, sour, unpleasant and very disagreeable. It will make you harsh, cruel, unkind, unsympathetic, ruthless, inconsiderate of others, and unforgiving. Naomi had become cold, uncaring, heartless, and hard. In other words she was saying, "Stay away from me." Let me encourage you today, don't let this world cause you to become bitter and uncaring. Even though your church may seem like it's going through a famine, stay put. As long as the Word of God is being preached, and there is bread and living water there, you can be full. But if you walk away, you may find yourself as the five foolish virgins without any oil when the call comes to meet the bridegroom. You may end up like Naomi, going out full but returning empty.

Sing: Fill my cup Lord, I lift it up Lord, come and quench this thirsting of my soul, bread of heaven, fill me till I want no more, here's my cup, fill it up and make me whole.

2012 March 3 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick. And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom? And Saul eyed David from that day and forward. (1 Samuel 18:6-9)

Today's Morsel: "Fear not, little flock; for it is your father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom," Jesus said. The unfolding of today's scripture passage begins with the return from the battle where David had killed Goliath. What many fail to realize is that at this point David had already been anointed King of Israel, and Saul had already been rejected by God. As they are returning, the women began to sing, "Saul has killed his thousands." Saul probably rode higher in his saddle upon his horse as he heard this verse sung. But then in the next verse they sang, "But David hath killed his ten thousands." When Saul heard this, something turned inside his heart towards David. At this point, David had only killed one man, Goliath. But to the people and to the Philistines, Goliath was worth more than ten thousand men. He was their champion. He was their victor. To Israel, it was like killing ten thousand men. One would have thought that Saul would have been excited about the destruction of his enemy, Goliath. But no, he became jealous and bitter in his heart. And the Bible says he eyed David from that day forward. In other words, he sought to kill him. It was fine as long as Saul himself received the praise, but when David received it, it took the wind out of Saul’s sail. He saw his kingdom in jeopardy. Saul couldn’t take being given second honor. You see the devil doesn't like it when you’re blessed. Let me encourage you today, when others are given praise over you, rejoice with them and remember what James said "Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work"(James 3:13-16). Good leaders always allow their followers to receive the honor for the things they do. And strong Christians rejoice with those who rejoice.

Sing: Give God the Glory! Give God the Glory! Give God the Glory, and He will give you the victory.

2012 March 1 - Morning Manna

And the LORD said unto Joshua, Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have even taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also, and they have put it even among their own stuff. Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed from among you. Up, sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against to morrow: for thus saith the LORD God of Israel, There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, O Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies, until ye take away the accursed thing from among you. (Joshua 7:10-13)

Today's Morsel: The children of Israel found themselves face to face with what they felt was a little battle that could be easily won and should have been won without the loss of life. But they were not aware that there was sin in their camp. Achan had violated the commandment of God by taking things from the city of Jericho and God allowed them to feel their sin. Isn't it amazing how one person's sin can destroy others. Isn't it amazing how someone who says that they are a Christian and doesn't do right can affect so many others. The Encarta Dictionary defines sin as: an act, thought, or way of behaving that goes against the law or teachings of a religion, especially when the person who commits it is aware of it. To sin is to transgress; to go against God's Word and His command. Solomon said that the way of a transgressor is hard. Ask yourself, is my sin affecting someone else. When I tell a lie, who is it affecting in the body? Sin doesn't have to be big to affect you or someone else. Solomon said that it's the little foxes that spoil the vine. The church can't grow until we get sin out of the camp. We can't defeat our enemies until we get sin out of the camp. God isn't going to be with us until we eradicate sin from the camp. Paul said that sin shall not have dominion over us. If we will search our hearts and purge ourselves from all unrighteousness, we will see the power of God operate in our midst.

Sing: Create in me a clean heart, O' God, and renew a right spirit within me. Create in me a clean heart, O' God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from Thy presence O' God, take not Thy Holy Spirit from me, restore unto me, the joy of Thy salvation, and renew a right spirit within me.