2012 May 31 - Morning Manna

Behold my servant, whom I uphold; mine elect, in whom my soul delighteth; I have put my spirit upon him: he shall bring forth judgment to the Gentiles. He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause his voice to be heard in the street. A bruised reed shall he not break, and the smoking flax shall he not quench: he shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he have set judgment in the earth: and the isles shall wait for his law. (Isaiah 42:1-4)

Today's Morsel: Isaiah's song here describes Jesus as the Messiah and His ministry. Of all the prophets which wrote, none seem to bring to the forefront who Jesus was like the prophet Isaiah. I believe that when Uzziah died, and Isaiah saw the glory of the Lord (Isaiah 6), there was an immediate revelation as to the Mighty God in Christ. When Jesus said in Luke 4:16-22, "Today is this scripture fulfilled in your hearing," He was quoting from the prophet Isaiah (chapter 61). No description of Jesus could be more encouraging to us as we seek deliverance from hurts and our fragile emotions. God is gentle; He will not crush us. He will encourage us and bring about fairness for the wrong we may have suffered. Even as children, many of you may have endured abuse or wrongdoings that you did nothing to deserve. But we need to let go of the hurt and bitterness that we may feel and be clinging to, because Jesus will judge those who have done you wrong. Isaiah said that He shall bring forth judgment unto truth. He shall not fail nor be discouraged, till he has set judgment in the earth. "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 4:18-19). God will come through for you. So hang in there.

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

2012 May 30 - 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: This passage in the book of Lamentations, like so many others in the Word of God, has become my mainstay. Jeremiah seems to hit on many facets of life with His writings. He seems to grease the wheel with each word and story. He seems to captivate us with scriptures that cause us to ponder on the goodness and mercy of God. Even though his writings are during the captivity of Israel, he still shows God's faithfulness and goodness in the times of captivity, pain, and suffering. After he poured out his own pain to God, he reflected upon God's faithfulness. He said, "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning." What could possibly deliver him from this terrible anguish that he was going through other than to understand the goodness and faithfulness of God. Like Jeremiah, we too should understand that nothing except the mercy of a gracious and loving God can aid us in the times of hardship and suffering. God's love is always unfailing, His purpose is always clear; His righteousness is unquestionable, and His compassions are renewed daily. When we come to God with our pain, we are sure to get a fair hearing because He is a righteous Judge. In His mercy and grace, God will help us overcome our setbacks and gain a new perspective on life when we seek Him. The writer of Hebrews admonishes us, "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people. For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted"(Hebrews 2:17-18). "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. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need"(Hebrews 4:15-16). Always remember, it is of the Lord's mercies that you are not consumed, because His compassions fail not. They are new every morning.

Sing: Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Morning by morning new mercies I see. All I have needed Thy hand hast provided. Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord unto me.

2012 May 29 - Morning Manna

I will bless the LORD at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in the LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad. O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the LORD, and he heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. They looked unto him, and were lightened: and their faces were not ashamed. This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the LORD encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them. (Psalms 34:1-7)

Today's Morsel: When we experience deliverance through the power of God, it should be natural for us to praise Him and share the gospel with others. Jesus said, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth" (Acts 1:8). If we care about other people who may be suffering as we have or did, then we should not be selfish when it comes to telling them how God delivered us. Boasting about our God and the things that He has done for us and given to us is one kind of boasting and bragging that is good for the soul. This kind of godly boasting will not only encourage others in their overcoming process, but will also strengthen our faith in God.

Sing: I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth; my soul shall make her boast in Thee LORD: the humble shall hear thereof, and be glad; O magnify the LORD with me, and let us exalt his name together; I sought the LORD, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears.

2012 May 28 - Morning Manna

Lord, how long wilt thou look on? rescue my soul from their destructions, my darling from the lions. I will give thee thanks in the great congregation: I will praise thee among much people. (Psalms 35:17-18)

Today's Morsel: It seems as though the whole world is fighting against the church today. It seems that people only want the church for hand-me-outs and not for salvation and change in their lives. They cry, 'Shut the church down! Christian's are mean!' But when they face hardships and despair, they want the church to come to their rescue and give them handouts. In this Psalm, David expresses feelings of desperation. He felt that God had forgotten him. At times, we too may feel the same way. Especially when it seems that the wicked are prevailing. But when our relief from God comes, we should, like David, rejoice and encourage others who may be feeling the same way we were. We need to tell and show them of God's goodness. We need to keep crying out to God for His wisdom and power to help us continue to do what is right. If we continue to do what is right and those who have stood with us see our progress, they will rejoice with us as we stand in the congregation and tell others about our great and loving God.

Sing: I lean on you Lord! I lean on you Lord! For the things that I need, I lean on You; When I don't know, just what to do, I've got the faith You're gonna see me through, You supply my every need, and I lean onYou.

2012 May 26 - Morning Manna

Comfort ye, comfort ye my people, saith your God. Speak ye comfortably to Jerusalem, and cry unto her, that her warfare is accomplished, that her iniquity is pardoned: for she hath received of the LORD'S hand double for all her sins. The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain: And the glory of the LORD shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it. (Isaiah 40:1-5)

Today's Morsel: If you have ever read Isaiah 40:1-5, then you know that this passage which was used by Dr. Martin Luther King in his famous "I Have A dream Speech." When he quoted "Every valley shall be exalted, and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough places plain," he was speaking a word of comfort to the people from the book of Isaiah. God's message to His people is one of comfort and blessing. God never gives up on us, no matter how bad the things are that we've done or may be going through. The punishment will end, the hardship will cease, and God will restore us to a loving relationship with Himself. John said, "If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin" (1 John 1:6-7). Therefore, if we are going to have a relationship with God, we have to clear out things in our life that aren't like Him. Sin, pride, addictions, hypocrisy, greed, and such things will have to go because they will block our relationship with God. But when these things are dealt with, then and only then will we become free to become the people God wants us to be and maintain that relationship.

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 your presence O' God; take not your Holy Spirit from me, restore unto me, the joy of Thy salvation, and renew a right spirit within me.

2012 May 24 - Morning Manna

I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it. He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
(Ecclesiastes 3:10-11)

Today's Morsel: La Crosse, Wisconsin, is probably one of the most beautiful small cities during the spring and summer that you could see. The people just seem to go out of their way to make it look beautiful. They plant flowers, have beautiful lawns, and in most cases, the people have very beautiful attitudes, which also add to its beauty. Solomon said that God hath made everything beautiful in His time. Isn't it amazing how God can take some of the ugliest things and make them beautiful. Look at the butterfly which comes from a caterpillar. Look at the peacock which is just like any other bird until it spreads it's feathers. And look at mankind. He can be ugly in action, attitudes, and decorum, but once God fills him with His Spirit and he allows that Spirit to lead and guide him, he becomes beautiful in so many ways. When we allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit of God, the fruit of that spirit is manifest within us and we reflect Christ in our lives. The beauty of a man is reflected by his personality, and that comes from his character. If we possess the fruit of the spirit within us, then we have the character of God and the ability to reflect our beautiful Savior. Scripture tells us, "O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth"

(Psalms 96:9). Our worship should be beautiful. "Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever" (Psalms 93:5). Remember, we are the temple of God. Holiness is beautiful and holiness right.

Sing: I'm not doubting about the way! I'm not doubting about the way! Walking in the light, holiness is right, and I'm not doubting about the way.

2012 May 23 - Morning Manna

And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. (Matthew 26:37-42)

Today's Morsel: Just suppose that God searched through heaven and He couldn't find one willing to be the supreme sacrifice that was needed, the one that would buy eternal life for you and me. I'm so glad that Jesus was willing to drink that bitter cup, although He prayed that it may be taken away, He also prayed the Father's will be done. Death, sorrow, loneliness, pain, rejection, all sin in one cup to be placed upon the shoulders of one man, the Man Christ Jesus. Had it not been for Jesus where would we be? If He had not been willing to drink that bitter cup, what would life now hold for you and me? I am so thankful that He was willing to be the ultimate sacrifice for mankind. The writer of Hebrews informs us, "And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission" (Hebrews 9:22). It took royal blood to remove our sins. Thank God for Calvary.

Sing: Had it not been for a place called Mount Calvary, Had it not been for the old rugged cross; Had it not been for a Man called Jesus, then forever my soul would be lost.

2012 May 22 - Morning Manna

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. (Ecclesiastes 12:13-14)

Today's Morsel: When I was a boy scout, the first line in our motto was, "On my honor I will do my duty to God and my country...." Jesus said, "So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" (Luke 17:10). What is the duty of man? Solomon said that it is to fear God and keep his commandments. His father David said in Psalms 19:7-10 that the fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever. When we reverence God with a pure heart, it keeps our mind, thoughts, and way clean. The worshipper must worship the Father in spirit and in Truth. Truth makes us free. Someone has said that cleanliness is next to godliness. David also said that the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes. Jesus said, "The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these" (Mark 12:29-31). When we exercise love towards God with all our being and love each other as we love ourselves, we are fulfilling the commandments of God and at the same time doing part of our duty. Solomon said that God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil. Are you fulfilling your duty?

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

I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord. I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.

2012 May 21 - Morning Manna

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven
(Ecclesiastes 3:1).

Today's Morsel: Do you ever worry about the time? We get up early and rush to the airport because we don't want to be late. We leave home fifteen minutes early for work to beat the rush hour traffic because we don't want to be late. We map out our trips for the shortest route so we will know how much time it will take us to get there. The bad part about all of this is, no matter if we are going on a trip, or going to work, if we aren't careful we won't enjoy the trip because we are so preoccupied with the time. I wonder just how much we've missed seeing because we were so focused on the time instead of what God was doing. I wonder what would happen if we planned a trip and didn't worry about our arrival time, just took our time and we got there when we got there. I wonder what all we could see and how less stressful our lives would be. Many people take vacations and return more tired than before they left because they are focused on the time and not their vacation. Many of them say, "Well, we can only be gone for so long before we have to get back." And because they are worried about the time, they don't enjoy the trip. Solomon said that there is a time to every purpose under heaven. Have you stopped and asked God how's your time with Him?

Sing: Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand; build your hopes on things eternal, hold to God's unchanging hand!

Hold to God's unchanging hand! Hold to God's unchanging hand! Build your hopes on things eternal, hold to God's unchanging hand!

2012 May 25 - Morning Manna

Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; Because ye have spoken vanity, and seen lies, therefore, behold, I am against you, saith the Lord GOD. And mine hand shall be upon the prophets that see vanity, and that divine lies: they shall not be in the assembly of my people, neither shall they be written in the writing of the house of Israel, neither shall they enter into the land of Israel; and ye shall know that I am the Lord GOD. Because, even because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace; and one built up a wall, and, lo, others daubed it with untempered morter: Say unto them which daub it with untempered morter, that it shall fall: there shall be an overflowing shower; and ye, O great hailstones, shall fall; and a stormy wind shall rend it. Lo, when the wall is fallen, shall it not be said unto you, Where is the daubing wherewith ye have daubed it? Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even rend it with a stormy wind in my fury; and there shall be an overflowing shower in mine anger, and great hailstones in my fury to consume it. So will I break down the wall that ye have daubed with untempered morter, and bring it down to the ground, so that the foundation thereof shall be discovered, and it shall fall, and ye shall be consumed in the midst thereof: and ye shall know that I am the LORD. (Ezekiel 13:8-14)

Today's Morsel: Last year, we had a tornado touch down here in LacCrosse, and it destroyed many things. The old fable was that where three rivers meet and the bluffs are, tornadoes won't touch down. And so for many years, many have lived under that false pretence that this was truth. This storm brought hailstones the size of golf balls that damaged many roofs and automobiles. I am very thankful that God spared our home, vehicles, and lives. The Lord said through the prophet Ezekiel, "Because they have seduced my people, saying, Peace; and there was no peace." Paul told the church at Thessalonica, "But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-5). There are many significant problems that come into our life, but claiming that everything is all right will never solve them. In fact, such denial will only make things worse. It is unwise to claim peace when there is no peace. If problems exist, we need to admit them and respond with the appropriate actions. Many of us tend to look the other way, pretending everything is all right. This will only lead us into deeper slavery to the problem and eventually cause us self destruction. If you are having troubles today, don't pretend that all is at peace, get help with your problem, because God really does want you to have His peace.

Sing: Peace, Peace, wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above. Sweep over my spirit forever In pray, In fathomless billows of love.

2012 May 19 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel: Warfare is nasty business. Isaiah said that it is with confused noise, and garments rolled in blood. I guess that's why when people walk into an apostolic church service, they think the people are out of their minds with their loud worship! We're just putting the enemy on the run. When the Philistines heard the loud noise in the camp of Israel, they asked, "What's all this loud noise in the camp of the Israelite?' It was because the Ark of the Lord was brought into their midst. When God is in the house, there should always be noise of rejoicing and praise. When Chuck Yager broke the sound barrier, there was a big boom. When we shout, the prince of the power of the air, Satan, and his demonic force are scattered, because we are breaking the sound barrier. Each time you shout, "Jesus" the enemy scatters. So let me encourage you, don't hold back your praise. Not only does it gets heavens attention, but it put the enemy of the run.

Sing: Let God arise and His enemies be scattered. Let God arise and His enemies be scattered. Let God arise and His enemies be scattered. Let God, let God, arise.

2012 May 18 - Morning Manna

If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small. (Proverbs 24:10)

Today's Morsel: Many people cannot handle adversity. They have great trouble dealing with any kind of hardship or misfortune. But for the Christian, adversity should not be hard to handle because Jesus has already told us in His Word that adversity is going to come. Therefore, we should prepare for it before it comes so that way we can easily combat it. Let me give you three tools to combat adversity.

1. A good conscience: A good sense of right and wrong will help you with adversity. Isaiah said: "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength" (Isaiah 26:3-4). When your mind is stayed on Jesus, you will see what He's doing and not what the advesary is trying to do.

2. Hope: Is something that brings pleasure. You have to be able to see beyond the adversity. Paul said, "For we are saved by hope: but hope that is seen is not hope: for what a man seeth, why doth he yet hope for? But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it"(Romans 8:24-25). Solomon said, "Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life" (Proverbs 13:12). You must keep hope alive.

3. The Presence of God: When you keep yourself in the love of God, the presence of God will be there with you. I won't leave you nor forsake you scripture says (Hebrews 13:5). When Paul and those on the ship with him on the way to Rome were faced with a tempestuous storm, Paul said: And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me"(Acts 27:22-25). When you know that God's presence is with you, you can face the adversity.

Sing: When in service for my Lord, dark may be the night, but I'll cling more close to Him, He will give me light. Satan's snares may vex my soul, turn my thoughts aside, but my Lord goes ahead, He leads wherever betide.

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 life my voice, cares all past, home at last, ever to rejoice.

2012 May 17 - Morning Manna

And there came an angel of the LORD, and sat under an oak which was in Ophrah, that pertained unto Joash the Abiezrite: and his son Gideon threshed wheat by the winepress, to hide it from the Midianites. And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour. And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites. And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?
(Judges 6:11-14)

Today's Morsel: What comes to your mind when you hear the word "Potential?" What do you think when someone says they have the ability, but they aren't living up to their full potential? There is always a whole lot more with people than what they display or are putting forth. When a father, mother, pastor, or teacher says, "You can do better than that", they are saying, "You aren't living up to your potential." Potential says that there is more within you that you aren't using. Are you reaching your maximum potential? Are you using your abilities to the fullest? I'm sorry to say that many people aren't living up to their potential to be godly men, godly husbands, godly fathers, godly women, godly wives, godly mothers, or godly examples to others. Do you ever ask yourself these questions:

ØWhat does God want me to be?

ØWhat could I be doing for the Lord that I'm not doing?

ØWhat could I be doing for my family that I'm not?

ØAm I really living up to my potential?

ØAm I really living up to being a child of God?

ØWhere have I failed in my potential?

ØHow do I reach my maximum potential?

Scripture says: "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you" (Luke 10:19).

Like Gideon, many are hiding behind the winepress of their fears, past, and hurts. They aren't putting forth the effort to reach their potential. God saw what potential was in Gideon the same as He saw potential in Abraham, Moses, David, Paul, and the other apostles, and He knows what your capabilities are, too. When you stand before God, He's not going to ask you why you didn't praise like David or lead like Moses. He's not going to ask you why you didn't preach like Paul or pray like Daniel. He's not even going to ask you why you weren't a successful soul winner. But He is going to ask you why you didn't reach your maximum potential, because He gave you the power to do so.

Sing: I'm pressing on the upward way, new heights I'm gaining every day; still praying as I'm onward bound, " Lord, plant my feet on higher ground."

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 May 16 - Morning Manna

So Hannah rose up after they had eaten in Shiloh, and after they had drunk. Now Eli the priest sat upon a seat by a post of the temple of the LORD. And she was in bitterness of soul, and prayed unto the LORD, and wept sore. And she vowed a vow, and said, O LORD of hosts, if thou wilt indeed look on the affliction of thine handmaid, and remember me, and not forget thine handmaid, but wilt give unto thine handmaid a man child, then I will give him unto the LORD all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head. And it came to pass, as she continued praying before the LORD, that Eli marked her mouth. Now Hannah, she spake in her heart; only her lips moved, but her voice was not heard: therefore Eli thought she had been drunken. And Eli said unto her, How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee. And Hannah answered and said, No, my lord, I am a woman of a sorrowful spirit: I have drunk neither wine nor strong drink, but have poured out my soul before the LORD. Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto. Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace: and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him. (1 Samuel 1:9-17)

Today's Morsel: Does it pay to pray? Sometimes you may wonder, "Why pray?" When we pray, we can use the hand method for praying. The thumb is the closest, so you should pray for those closest to you; your family and loved ones. Next is the pointer finger. We should pray for those who are pointing us in the right direction; pastors, teacher, etc. Then the middle finger is for leadership; church officials, national leaders, etc. Next is the ring finger. These are the people who are weak. This can be those who are struggling in their Christian walk, those who keep giving in to temptation, those who are afraid to make decisions, and it also includes those who are sick. And finally, the pinky is you, because you are the smallest! You pray for your needs and situations. What I often find when I pray, is that after I have spent time praying for others, when it gets to me, my needs are usually minimal and I spend less time focusing on myself than I did on the needs of others. Prayer does work. Luke said,"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint"(Luke 18:1). T he more we pray, the more things that get done. We just need to make sure that when we pray we aren't praying amiss and for the wrong reasons. Remember, prayer isn't to change someone else, it's to change us.

Sing: Here my cry O' God, attend unto my prayer, from the end of the earth, will cry unto Thee; and when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the Rock, that is higher than I, so much higher than I.

2012 May 15 - Morning Manna

In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

(John 7:37-39)

Today's Morsel: Florence Chadwick knew she excelled at endurance swimming, especially in open water. This kind of swimming demands special talents and a perseverance far beyond that expected of shorter-distance athletes. The English Channel was considered the greatest challenge by swimmers in Chadwick's time. As the Encyclopedia of World Sport notes, "Channel swimming is one of sport's most taxing challenges, with very high rates of failure. The fact that less than seven percent [of those] who attempt to swim across the English Channel complete the trip is a testament to the difficulty of the task. Only the very strong succeed." But Florence Chadwick swam across it twice (both ways) breaking all records in 1950/51.

When we look into scripture, there are channels of truth that just seem to flow our way. Jesus said that the Holy Ghost would be as a river of water flowing out of you. Ezekiel saw this flowing truth issuing from inside the temple of God and it proceeded into the dry places (Ezekiel 47). Jesus told Nicodemus that it was a requirement for the New Birth (John 3:1-5), and Paul said that without it we are none of His (Romans 8:9). This Spirit of Truth can make a blind man see, a lame man walk and the dumb man talk. Once it begins to flow, Jeremiah said, it's like fire shut-up in your bones. "But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take no thought beforehand what ye shall speak, neither do ye premeditate: but whatsoever shall be given you in that hour, that speak ye: for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost", Jesus said (Mark 13:11). When you are in the flow, the Truth will make you free.

Sing: It's that Holy Ghost and fire that's keeping me alive, keeping me alive, keeping me alive; it's that Holy Ghost and fire that's keeping me alive, Jesus is keeping me alive.

2012 May 14 - Morning Manna

"O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. For thou hast made of a city an heap; of a defenced city a ruin: a palace of strangers to be no city; it shall never be built. Therefore shall the strong people glorify thee, the city of the terrible nations shall fear thee. For thou hast been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall" (Isaiah 25:1-4)

Today's Morsel: There are many nice canopies that we can purchase that would help protect us from the sun and other insects. My wife has even mentioned to me about getting one to place in our back yard to ward off the evening sun and bugs. When we turn to scripture there are canopies of blessing from the Lord. God desires to protect us and shelter us. Isaiah said that the Lord has been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible one is as a storm against the wall. Jeremiah said the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit (Jeremiah 17:6-7). The Psalmist informs us, "He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler" (Psalms 91:1-4). Because of His canopy of blessings, we don't have to worry about things coming against us. We are safe in the shadow of His wing.

Sing: Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His word. Just to rest upon His promise; just to know, "Thus saith the Lord."

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I've proved Him o'er and o'er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more!

2012 May 12 - Morning Manna

And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them. (Matthew 4:23-24)

Today's Morsel: A traveling preacher who was gifted in healing came to a church and he was praying for people. A young boy was in the line and the preacher asked him what his problem was? The boy said, "It's my hearing." The preacher took him by the ears and prayed for him. Then the preach asked him how his hearing was. The young boy said, "I don't know, it isn't until Friday." Humor!

The Bible said that they brought all sick people to Jesus and He healed them. I'm sure many will say, "Well why aren't people we pray for today healed?" My wife constantly suffers with voice loss and migraine headaches. She has battled this for many years. She has been prayed for over and over again, year after year, and there is no outward sign of her physical healing. But when you ask her how she is doing, she replies, "All is well with my soul." That's all that really matters, how's your soul? You see, as Paul said, "Though our outward man perish, yet our inward man is renewed day by day." It's our attitude. We have to learn how to endure hardness as a good soldier for Jesus Christ. This body is temporal and we are going to suffer while in it. Therefore, we need to ensure that our soul is intact with Christ. Because as Peter said, One day, we are going to put off this tabernacle the same as Jesus did. So don't worry too much about this outward man, just make sure your inward man is well. John lets us know that one day this suffering will be over and the pain gone. He said, "And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea. And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away" (Revelation 21:1-4). Just remember, pain is just weakness leaving the body.

Sing: Would you do service for Jesus your King? There's power in the blood, power in the blood; would you live daily His praises to sing? There's wonderful power in the blood.

There is power, power, wonder working power in the blood, of the Lamb; there is power, power, wonder working power in the precious blood of the Lamb.

2012 May 11 - Morning Manna

And now I am no more in the world, but these are in the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory,which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. (John 17:11-24)

Today's Morsel: Do you every pray for your children and family that they will be kept by God. When Jesus prayed for His disciples , He prayed that they would be kept in the Father's name (vs.11); that they would be kept in safety (vs. 12); that they would be kept in joyfulness (vs.13);kept in purity (vs. 15); kept from the world (vs. 16), kept in truth (vs.17), kept in active service (vs. 18); kept in perfect unity (vs. 20-21), and kept for His coming glory (vs. 22-24). What an awesome prayer for those you love. And Jesus said in verse 20, "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us." If you are a born again believer, then Jesus has prayed this prayer for you as well. Aren't you thankful that you are kept by the prayers of God.

Sing: Jesus got up early one morning and He went out to pray. He said, Father keep them, and show them the way. Please keep them, and hold them in the palm of your hand, and save them from the evil one, until I come again.

Chorus: Hold them close to you, dear Lord, hold them by your right hand, Love them forever until they learn to stand. Surround them with your mercy and your loving grace, until they understand, that you died in their place.

2012 May 10 - Morning Manna

For I say unto you, That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven. (Matthew 5:20)

Today's Morsel: There are certain things that are absolutely spiritually necessary for your life if you are going to make it to heaven. And one of those things is righteousness. Jesus said that if our righteousness doesn't exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, we shall in no case enter the kingdom of heaven. God calls for us to do right at all cost. Therefore, we must not compromise or integrity in any area. We must live truth and stand for truth even if it cost us our careers, friendships, or jobs. Our world seems to have lost the value of integrity and it is spilling into the church. People say one thing and do another. It seems as though integrity has no personal value anymore. But Job said, "God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me"(Job 27:5).

Because our Heavenly Father is a God of righteousness, we too must reflect His righteousness in our lives. If we do not admit our problems and sins, there can be no cure for us. But when we humble ourselves before God and openly confess our sins and faults, He brings about righteousness within us. The only way you will ever be able to do right is to first realize that you are wrong. Always remember, character counts.

Sing: A little talk with Jesus makes it right, all right. A little talk with Jesus makes it right, all right; A little talk with Jesus makes it right, all right, trials of every kind, praise God I always find, a little talk with Jesus makes it right all right.

2012 May 9 - Morning Manna

And all the angels stood round about the throne, and about the elders and the four beasts, and fell before the throne on their faces, and worshipped God, Saying, Amen: Blessing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and honour, and power, and might, be unto our God for ever and ever. Amen. And one of the elders answered, saying unto me, What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve him day and night in his temple: and he that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. They shall hunger no more, neither thirst any more; neither shall the sun light on them, nor any heat. For the Lamb which is in the midst of the throne shall feed them, and shall lead them unto living fountains of waters: and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes. (Revelation 7:11-17)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever had anyone ask you if you were saved? What went through you mind when they asked you? Did you have a moment of doubt because you needed to search yourself to ensure that you are still doing what the Lord has asked you to do; or maybe you suddenly realized that you may be on the wrong course? Once we have repented of our sins and have been baptized in Jesus name, and filled with His Spirit, there should be no doubt within us when it comes to our salvation, if we are continuing on in Christ and obeying His Word. Everyday should be a day that we look toward that heavenly city. That New Jerusalem. When we look at our salvation, we should immediately see an abundance of life. That's what salvation brings with it, an abundant life. The old life is gone and the new life now shines brighter than before. This Gospel of Jesus Christ should be even brighter than you have ever known. When John was asked, "What are these which are arrayed in white robes? and whence came they? And I said unto him, Sir, thou knowest. And he said to me, These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." Notice, they came through pressure (literally or figuratively) affliction, anguish, burdens, persecution, tribulation, trouble. They didn't allow anything to prevent them from reaching glory. What about you? Do you regress or progress in your tribulations? In Romans 8:35, Paul asked the question who shall separate us from the love of Christ? He said, shall tribulations? These things should not separate us from Christ's love because our robes have been washed in the blood of the Lamb in the waters of baptism and this abundant salvation we now have will lead us home where we too will worship forever.

Sing: Thou art worthy! Thou art worthy! Thou art worthy O' Lord. To receive glory, glory and honor, glory and honor and power. For Thou hast created, hast all things created, Thou hast created all things. And for Thy pleasure they are created, Thou art worthy, O' God.

2012 May 8 - Morning Manna

I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:1-7).

Today's Morsel: To abide is to remain or stay. Jesus desires that our life be like the fruitful branches of a grapevine. The only way to be fruitful is to remain connected to Him, the vine, and to allow Him to prune us so that we can bear fruit. We must allow Him to cultivate, de-weed, and prune our lives so that we can bring forth spiritual fruit and develop our character. Jesus calls for us to remain and stay in Him. He said that if we would stay and remain in Him, then we can ask what we will, and it shall be done unto us. But sad to say, too many do not want to abide in Him. The writer of Hebrews says, "For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come, If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put him to an open shame" (Hebrews 6:4-6). So how do we abide in Christ? When we hide His Word in our hearts we are abiding in Him. When we become doers of His word we are abiding in Him. When we tell others about Him, we are abiding in Him. When we attend church so that we can be developed we are abiding in Him. John also tells us, "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him" (1 John 2:27). Are you abiding in Him? Let me encourage you, stay in Christ. He gets sweeter as the days goes by.

Sing: Glory hallelujah! I shall not be moved; anchored in Jehovah, and I shall not be moved, just like a tree planted by the waters, I shall not be move.

I shall not be I shall not be moved, I shall not be, I shall not be moved, just like a tree planted by the waters, I shall not be moved.

2012 May 7 - Morning Manna

And the officers shall speak unto the people, saying, What man is there that hath built a new house, and hath not dedicated it? let him go and return to his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man dedicate it. And what man is he that hath planted a vineyard, and hath not yet eaten of it? let him also go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man eat of it. And what man is there that hath betrothed a wife, and hath not taken her? let him go and return unto his house, lest he die in the battle, and another man take her. (Deuteronomy 20:5-7)

Today's Morsel: I have had people ask me when they move into a new house or an apartment if I will come and anoint and dedicate their new dwelling to the Lord. And I have done that for many of them. What they are asking for is the blessings of the Lord upon their dwelling. Even though these are temporal structures, they see what the Lord is doing in their lives and they want to use it for God's glory. I believe that the main house we need to dedicate is this earthly temple that we dwell in. If we dedicate that to the Lord for His use, I think that that would be a much better investment than our earthly dwellings. Have you been baptized in Jesus Name and do you have the Holy Ghost? If you have, then you are a dedicated house to God and fit for His use. Paul told Timothy, "Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let everyone that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. 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 2:19-21). John said, "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him "(1 John 2:27). I n Luke chapter 4, Jesus said, "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 4:18-19). If you haven't dedicated your house to Jesus, it's not to late. Now is the acceptable time, now is the day of salvation.

Sing: From this day I dedicate my life to you oh Lord. From now on I promise I will serve you. For better or worse I'll will keep you first, no matter what I go through, Lord I dedicate my life to you. Lord I dedicate my life to you to praise you, to bless you, tell the world about you, forever I will glorify, You're the reason why I sing; to praise you, to bless you, tell the world about you; Lord in everything I do, I will dedicate my life to you.

2012 May 5 - Morning Manna

And the people took their dough before it was leavened, their kneadingtroughs being bound up in their clothes upon their shoulders. (Exodus 12:34)

Today's Morsel: One of the things the children of Israel brought out of Egypt with them was their kneading troughs. The kneading trough was where they made their bread. It was here in the kneading trough that they added the yeast, or no yeast depending on the time of year, so the bread could rise. Often they were to eat unleavened bread, so no yeast would be added. When we flip the pages forward, we can see that this was a type and shadow of Christ. The Bible says, "And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn." (Luke 2:1-7). The Encarta Dictionary defines manger as a trough from which livestock eat. The kneading trough was for making bread and allowing it to rise. Jesus said, "I am that bread of life. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are dead. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven, that a man may eat thereof, and not die. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world" (John 6:48-51). It was here in this trough in the stable that Jesus began to rise. Mary cooked up a pretty good loaf of bread. What do you think?

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

2012 May 4 - MJorning Manna

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)

Today's Morsel: It has been stated that most people can count their true friends on one hand. We just don't seem to have many in whom we can truly trust and those we are able to call friends. We may have associates and acquaintances, but true friends are hard to find. Solomon says, "A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity" (Proverbs 17:17). A true friend will always be there for you. A true friend will stick by you no matter what. A true friend doesn't mind coming to pick you up at midnight. He may not like it, but he will come. Would we say that Job's friends were true friends or were they acquaintances? I believe that Job's friends were really his friends. Some people have said that if they were true friends they wouldn't have treated him that way. But stop and think about it. They traveled a long way to come and see him. And they sat and mourned with him. And they asked him some tough questions. A true friend will sometimes accuse you of wrong doing not to others but to your face. Remember, a true friend knows you and things about you. And so if they hit you with the hard questions, don't get angry because iron sharpeth iron.

Abraham was called a friend of God. Jesus called His disciples friends. Even though Judas betrayed Jesus, he was still a friend of Jesus. He didn't need to kill himself for what he did as he was still a friend. Solomon said that friends loveth at all times. And Jesus said, "I have called you friend." So if you are a friend of Jesus, don't kill yourself when you do wrong, you're still His friend and He will help you through whatever you are having to deal with.

Sing: Friend, there will never be a friend, as dear to me as You, there will never be another, closer than a brother; Friend, always worth the wait, faithful as the day, You say we are friends.

You know all about me, the good and the bad, You know when I rise and fall. You see my beginning, You stand at the end, and yet You remain faithful to say I'm Your friend.

Every time You call me I receive Your healing, Every time You call me friend (Repeat Chorus)

2012 May 3 - Morning Manna

Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:13-16)

Today's Morsel: The other day, I began to think about my prayer life. I began to ask myself if my prayers were repetitious. You know, saying the same old thing over and over. And I had to be honest with myself and realize that they were becoming that way because of so much sickness, and saints who are struggling with sickness, that I found myself calling their names out before the Lord all throughout the day. In a sense my prayers were becoming repetitious. The Greek word for "Effectual fervent" is, energeō; en-erg-eh'-o, which is to be active, operative, powerful, efficient. If we repeat the same thing over and over, pretty soon, they will lose power and effectiveness. Don't get me wrong, I believe that we need to pray for the saints and for one another, but at what point do we trust God that He heard us the first time that we prayed and move on so that our prayers for others and other things are effectual and doesn't lose their effectiveness. It's almost like singing some songs, you know the ones that we call seven-eleven; seven words sung eleven times! After about the fifth time through, your voice isn't as loud as it was when you began and your mind can begin to wander. You begin to lose your effectiveness and power. Hezekiah's prayer is an example of an effective, fervent prayer. "Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, And said, Remember now, O LORD, I beseech thee, how I have walked before thee in truth and with a perfect heart, and have done that which is good in thy sight. And Hezekiah wept sore. Then came the word of the LORD to Isaiah, saying, Go, and say to Hezekiah, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will add unto thy days fifteen years. And I will deliver thee and this city out of the hand of the king of Assyria: and I will defend this city. And this shall be a sign unto thee from the LORD, that the LORD will do this thing that he hath spoken; Behold, I will bring again the shadow of the degrees, which is gone down in the sun dial of Ahaz, ten degrees backward. So the sun returned ten degrees, by which degrees it was gone down" (Isaiah 38:2-8). If we walk in truth and with a perfect heart, God will hear us and answer expediently.

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