2012 June 30 - Morning Manna

And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands; That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
(Ephesians 2:1-13)

Today's Morsel: We may feel like we aren't good enough to be an example to others. We may realize that we need other people, but find it hard to believe that our story of deliverance could help someone else. Paul said that we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them. In order for us to have a true view of where we fit into the scheme of things, we need to realize that God has a purpose for each of our lives. My purpose may be totally different from yours. We each need to find out our purpose or we will soon become frustrated and quit. God created each of us with certain talents and abilities. And when He saved us, He knew what they were and for what purpose He desired to use them for His kingdom. God had already prepared Hiram for the work of the temple before Solomon was chosen to be King. He had the talent and the abilities. Paul likened us to the human body. Eyes, noses hands, feet, etc. all work together to achieve a purpose. And Paul said that wike the part of the natural body, we, in the church, all need each other. If the kingdom of God is going to grow, we each need to find where we are to be and put our talents and abilities to work.

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

2012 June 29 - Morning Manna

Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word. (Psalms 119:9-16)

Today's Morsel: Psalms 119:9 and John 15:3 say that we are cleansed by the Word of God. The writer of Hebrews tells us, "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water"(Hebrews 10:22). And Peter tells us, "Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently: Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever." (1 Peter 1:22-23). When we obey God's Word, it produces wholeness within us. Therefore, it would seem logical that we should do everything we can to obey iI. If we want to know what God's will is for us, then we have to study His Word. God has left clear guidelines for us to follow if we want to be His servants and reign with Him after this life. He has also promised to help us carry out anything He may ask us to do (Matthew 28:20). When we study and apply God's Word to our lives, it should be a joyful experience that will plant God's truth in our mind and in our hearts. As the psalmist said, "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."

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

2012 June 28 - Morning Manna

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. (Acts 9:1-6)

Today's Morsel: I always like to ask people to tell me about their conversion to becoming a Christian. Where were you and what happened? Surprisingly, some people don't like to talk about their religion nor their personal conversion. I would think, and I don't care the denomination one belongs to, that if Jesus saved me, I would be telling someone else about it and not hiding one second of it. It's amazing to me the number of people who call themselves Christians and never tell anyone about Christ Jesus. When the apostle Paul was met by Jesus on the road to Damascus, he asked two questions. "Who art thou, Lord?" and "What wilt thou have me to do?" But Jesus knew that before Paul (Saul) could do what He wanted him to do, Paul (Saul) had to be born again of the water and the spirit. This is why he was sent to the street called straight so Ananias could baptize him and he could receive the Holy Ghost. After his new birth experience, Paul went everywhere preaching Christ Jesus and Him crucified. And Scripture says that when he was in Athens, "Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars' hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious. For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you. God that made the world and all things therein, seeing that he is Lord of heaven and earth, dwelleth not in temples made with hands; Neither is worshipped with men's hands, as though he needed any thing, seeing he giveth to all life, and breath, and all things; And hath made of one blood all nations of men for to dwell on all the face of the earth, and hath determined the times before appointed, and the bounds of their habitation; That they should seek the Lord, if haply they might feel after him, and find him, though he be not far from every one of us: For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring" (Acts 17:22-28). He told the church at Rome, "I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith" (Romans 1:14-17). Don't say that you are a Christian if you aren't telling others about the One who saved you, Jesus!

Sing: We are not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation. And it's to everyone! Everyone, that believes it. And it's to everyone! Everyone, that receives it. We shall have, everlasting life.

2012 June 27 - Morning Manna

The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity. Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD. God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. (Psalms 118:22-29)

Today's Morsel: It's amazing to me, how some people can take things that others discard and make a fortune out of them. I like to walk into antique shops and just look around. Some of the stuff I see in those places I say to myself, "As a kid I used a lot of those things, and now people are selling them for three to four time more then what we paid for them." I guess the person who said that one man's junk is another man's treasure was correct.

The psalmist said, "The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes." God's ways aren't our ways and we often hear this in the church. What some people may cast aside as unfit for use, God uses to do His work. Some of you may have been a drunk, druggie, or called trash by some folks. But God saw the good in you when everyone else around you could only see the worst in you. Sometimes you may feel that your life is beyond repair and that God won't use you for anything significant. But what I've found is that God often time use things and people that others had written off as no good. When we look at the men Jesus chose to preach this Gospel, it makes you shake your head. But God's ways aren't ours are they? Paul told Timothy, "But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work" (2 Timothy 2:20-21). When the world writes you off and casts you aside, Jesus will pick you up and use you in His building crew. He loves those that the world classifies as no good.

Sing: He saw the best in me, when everyone else around me, could only see the worst in me. You see He’s mine, and I am His. It doesn’t matter what I did, He only sees me for who I am; because He only see the best in me, when everyone else around me, could only see the worst in me.

2012 June 26 - Morning Manna

I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore. (Psalms 121:1-8)

Today's Morsel: Many scriptures show us that God is our protector and our defense. Like an umbrella in the rain, He covers us and protects us from the storm. But to have an understanding of this protection and defense requires us to trust Him. For example; when I was in the military, I couldn't see the entire military force, but I knew that they were there. Did I trust them? You bet you. Did I believe that they would come through for me? Right again, I sure did. And all that was, was me having faith in the system that I was a part of.

Yet when we turn to the church, many people struggle with their faith in God because they can't see God. And that is exactly where faith comes in. We walk by faith and not by sight. You can't see every place that God is. You can only see where He is based upon your vision and surroundings. But your faith should cause you to believe that He's everywhere and that He will come to your defense every time you need Him, the same as I knew that the military I was a part of would come to help me should I needed them. The Psalmist said, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. The sun shall not smite thee by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve thee from all evil: he shall preserve thy soul. The LORD shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore." The same way the U.S. Military is on call twenty-four seven, Jesus too is on call. I can't think of a better help. Can you?

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

2012 June 25 - Morning Manna

Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding. He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.
(Isaiah 40:28-31)

Today's Morsel: When we are sick and not feeling well, we all want to recover as quickly as possible. It's hard lying there when you know that there are things to be done. It's hard to be patient as we wait for God to come through for us. But even Paul says, "Yet I supposed it necessary to send to you Epaphroditus, my brother, and companion in labour, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. For he longed after you all, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. For indeed he was sick nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him; and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow" (Philippians 2:25-27). Isn't it amazing that medical personnel call you a "patient" when you are in the hospital. They put you in a bed and do their best to make you better. Many (most) of us want to hurry and get out of that place the same way they do when we are sick at home. God knows that sometimes we just need some rest and recovery. The Lord tells us to be still and know that He is God. Ouch!! Therefore, we need to learn how to wait on God to come through for us. Isaiah gives us this promise, "But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." And Jeremiah, even tells us, "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 3:25-26). So my question to your today is this :How many prophets will it take before we heed God's warning to wait? We must learn to wait on God and not lean unto our own understanding. As we learn to trust and wait upon God, He will give us the strength and endurance to move forward.

Sing: They that wait upon the Lord, shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint, teach me Lord, teach me Lord, to wait!

2012 June 23 - Morning Manna

And when Samuel had caused all the tribes of Israel to come near, the tribe of Benjamin was taken. When he had caused the tribe of Benjamin to come near by their families, the family of Matri was taken, and Saul the son of Kish was taken: and when they sought him, he could not be found. Therefore they enquired of the LORD further, if the man should yet come thither. And the LORD answered, Behold, he hath hid himself among the stuff. And they ran and fetched him thence: and when he stood among the people, he was higher than any of the people from his shoulders and upward. (1 Samuel 10:20-23)

Today's Morsel: Many people spend their entire life in a state of hiding, ashamed of who they are inside. They may hide by living a double life, by using drugs, alcohol or other addictions to make them feel like someone else. They may spend thousands or even millions on make-up, clothing, jewelry, or other things trying to hide who they really are. After Adam and Eve had sinned in the garden, they realized they were naked and so when they heard the voice of God, they hid themselves from His presence. When God chose Saul to be king of Israel, he hid himself amongst the stuff. When the people were saying where is he, he was hiding from who he was. He was now their king. He was now the one chosen to lead. But He was hiding. One of the things I've learned in my life is that when the real person comes out, you are going to have to deal with some muck. But the best way to deal with the mask I was wearing was to take it off. I had to come clean. I had to make known to myself who I really was. And so when I gave my heart and life to Jesus, I was no longer ashamed for who I was. I realized that I was now a child of the King, and that kings kids don't have to hide because they are royalty.

Sing: I'm trading my sorrow, I'm trading my shame, I'm laying it down for the joy of the Lord. I'll say yes, lord, yes, Lord, yes, yes, Lord, Amen.

2012 June 22 - Morning Manna

Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Today's Morsel: I was watching this police documentary about how people commit and get away with robbery. The conclusion was that most of them have someone on the inside aiding them in their efforts to pull off such crimes. In other words, there is someone inside that works in the bank or store that is helping them. When we turn to the New Testament church, Paul said that we are the temple of the Holy Ghost ( 1 Corinthians 3:16). With the Holy Ghost inside of us, we have a helper to aid us in pulling off the things that we desire to do. The Holy Ghost is our helper. The Writer of Hebrews says, "For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted" Hebrews 2:18). Jesus said: " And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you.... If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him" (John 14:16-18; 23). We have this Comforter on the inside to help us overcome fear, loneliness, hardship, pain, and suffering. It's an inside job. Thank God He is working on the inside to ensure that I make the right choices and right decisions.

Sing: I 've got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, O' what a change in my life. I've got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, O' what a change in my life. I've got Jesus on the inside, working on the outside, O' what a change in my life, O' what a change, in my life.

2012 June 21 - Morning Manna

And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. (Genesis 4:8)

Today's Morsel: One of the things I often with Scripture, is that we are left to draw our own conclusions on somethings. For example, Scripture doesn't tell us why Cain killed his brother Abel. It just says that Cain talked with Abel his brother: And it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him. No explanation to the reason. Somewhat like others when we hear that someone kills someone, we ask why. And because so many plead insanity, we are left to draw our own conclusions. We do know that the writer of Hebrews said that God had respect to Abel's offering (Hebrews 11:4), but the reason for killing his brother isn't known through that passage. And we know that Paul tells us that the love of money is the root of all evil (1 Timothy 6:10), but even that doesn't tell us why Cain killed Abel, does it? If the love of money is the root of all evil, then maybe it was a strife over money, land, livestock, or maybe it was just a brother-to-brother dispute that ended in death. Or maybe Abel was like Joseph and told their dad what his brother was doing that wasn't right. If it was over water rights and land; as Abraham's and Lot's men had strife over, then we can learn how to handle such conflicts. Abraham handled it diplomatically. He allowed his nephew to choose so there would be no strife. But what do we learn from the story of Cain and Abel? I think what we should learn is that we need to control our anger. Scripture tells us to be angy and sin not. We need to be willing to talk, even when angry, in a way that do not bring hurt to others. We should also learn that we are called to love one another as Christ loved us. Especially brothers. And we should learn that God is always watching our every move and actions and we will be accountable for them.

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

He took my sins away! He took my sins away! He keeps me singing every day. I'm so glad He took my sins away, He took my sins away.

2012 June 20 - Morning Manna

Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye. (Matthew 7:1-5)

Today's Morsel: There have probably been times when we have ignored our own sins and problems and have pointed the finger at someone else. We may be out of touch with our internal affairs because we are still blaming others for our moral choices. Or perhaps we avoid self-examination by taking moral inventory of others around us. Many of us are like Adam and Eve, we blame others for our wrong doing. When God asked Adam, "Have you eaten from the tree I told you not to eat from?" Adam said, "The woman you gave me gave to me." And when God said to Eve, "What have you done?" Eve said, "The serpent beguiled me." (My wording). They each fail to take responsibility for their actions. It seems to be human nature to blame others as our first line of defense. We may also avoid our own problems by criticizing and blaming others. But Jesus tells us, "Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's eye." We need to get the beam out of our eye before we can get the speck out of someone else's eye. The best kind of examination is self-examination. If we judge ourselves, we won't have to worry about others judging us.

Sing: To be like Jesus! To be like Jesus! On earth I long to be like Him. All through life's journey from earth to glory, I only ask to be like Him.

2012 June 19 - Morning Manna

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. (Proverbs 11:30)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever wonder why Jesus placed so much emphasis on soul winning? Why did He tell His disciples that they wouldn't be fishers of fish in the sea but fishers of men? Why did He tell them, "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). Why did He tell them to lift up their eyes and look on the harvest field for it was ripe to harvest? Why do many of the Scriptures point to the fact the God will divide the wheat from the chaff? The answer to these questions is that God isn't willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Because God is just, He wants everyone to have an opportunity to be saved. And since He died for all, then all need to know the salvation message. As Paul said, "Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God: I speak this to your shame" (1 Corinthians 15:34). You see, witnessing about Jesus is important because Jesus knew that there would come a time when people who did not know what He had done for mankind. He knew that there would be those who denied that He ever existed and would live a life of brokenness and hurts. Therefore, the Holy Ghost made us witnesses to share with others so that none would be without knowing about the love of God. As I counsel with men who are incarcerated, many of them tell me, "I sure wish that I knew what you are now telling me before I came into this place." We need to seek every opportunity to share the Gospel. As Jude said: "But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh" (Jude 1:20-23).

Sing: There's a call comes ringing over the restless waves, "Send the light! Send the light!" There are souls to rescue, there are souls to save, "Send the light! Send the light!"

Send the light! The blessed gospel light, let it shine from shore! Send the light! The blessed gospel light let it shine forever more.

2012 June 18 - Morning Manna

And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? (Luke 11:5-13).

Today's Morsel: Our pride can keep us from asking for what we need. We may have grown up in a family where we were consistently ignored or disappointed. Perhaps our needs were seldom met. S ome of us may have reacted by becoming self-sufficient and we made a decision to never ask anyone else for help again. We became so hurt that we purposed in our hearts to never ask anyone to help us for fear of being let down and hurt again. And so we harden our hearts and live as though we don't need anything for fear of rejection again. It's this type of pride that will hold us back from asking God to help us to deal with situations and shortcomings in our lives. It can even keep us from being born again of the water and the spirit. Pride can destroy a life, if we let it. The same pride that causes a person with a Mercedes to park in the front of the church is the same pride that makes the person driving the car with the widows held up with duct tape park in the back! Pride is pride. Jesus tells us that we have not because we ask not. He said, "Ask and ye shall receive. Seek and you shall find. Knock and the door shall be open unto you." We have to get to the place where we get over our prideful ways and trust God at all cost. He isn't like everyone else. He works on faith and trust and He wants you to have the best things in life. He will never let us down.

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 going to see me through; You supply my every need and I lean on You.

2012 June 16 - Morning Manna

Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed. And they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort. If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness; He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself. (1 Timothy 6:1-5)

Today's Morsel: There are many false doctrines out there. And if we aren't careful, we can be drawn into them. Paul told the church at Ephesus, "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). He told the church at Rome, "Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them. For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple" (Romans 16:17-18). And he warned Timothy about those who spread false teaching among the believers. Paul wanted to protect Timothy and the message of free salvation offered by Jesus Christ. Paul's advice is still valuable to us today as we travel this pathway to heaven. Only God can deliver us from our sins and we can't join the church, we must be born into it. As Jesus told Nicodemus, "You must be born again of the water and the spirit." Shaking the preachers hand, signing some church form or reciting some pledge or liturgy does not make you a Christian or put you into the church. There is only one church, but many denominations. We are birthed into the church. If you read your Bible, you will notice that Jude said that the apostles had a common salvation (Jude 3). That salvation was Jesus Christ (Acts 2:38; Acts 4:12). Don't take my word for it, read your Bible.

Sing: There's just one, one, one, one way to God! There's just one, one, one, one way to God! There's just one, one, one, one way to God, baptized in Jesus Name!

2012 June 15 - Morning Manna

Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom. Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. (Proverbs 23:4-5)

Today's Morsel: Perhaps the most common and unrecognized addiction in our culture today is greed or materialism. Many people wear themselves out trying to get more and more money so they can buy more goods and do more things. The pleasure that money buys is only temporary; it doesn't satisfy the longing of the heart. A wise person learn the secret of delayed gratification and resist the greedy impulses that bring quick and fleeting pleasure. Instead, the wise seek to have their needs met through a healthy relationship with God and others. As Paul said, Godliness with contentment is great gain (1 Timothy 6:6). The wise understand as Solomon says that riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward heaven. If we aren't careful, materialism can sneak in and destroy us. We must learn how to possess our souls, live a balance dlifestyle, and not trust in riches. We brought nothing into this world, and it is for certain that we shall take nothing out.

Sing: He's all I need! He's all I need! Jesus, is all I need. He satisfies, my needs supplies, Jesus, is all I need!

2012 June 14 - Morning Manna

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

Today's Morsel: The New Living Translation of the Bible quotes this scripture (Proverbs 22:6) by saying, "Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it." The most important part of being a parent is teaching our children to follow a godly lifestyle. If children learn to respect authority and obey God while they are young, they usually stay on that path when they are older. Many people grow up in dysfunctional families where godly values have been shunned or laughed at. We can now see how that has led many of them to their codependent lifestyle. Solomon said, "The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame" (Proverbs 29:15). Our children deserve better; they need all the advantages of a moral and loving family environment. They need training and correction if they are going to succeed in this life. Moses told the children of Israel:

" Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates" (Deuteronomy 6:4-9)

The most important letter in the word success is "U". If your child has any chance at succeeding in life, it will take "U", their parents to get them on the right path and to do your best to keep them there.

Sing: Lead me! Guide me! Along, along the way. Lord, if you lead me, I cannot stray. Lord, let me walk, each day, with Thee; lead me O' Lord, lead me O' Lord, lead me!

2012 June 13 - Morning Manna

And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers. And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat. And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again. And the angel of the LORD came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee. And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God. And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah? And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away. (1 Kings 19:3-10)

Today's Morsel: Loneliness and isolation go along with the guilt and shame we feel about who we are or what we have done. We may feel so cut off from others that we even feel lonely when we are around other people. Guilt, fear of being hurt, and self-hatred can make us unable to believe in the love that others have for us. We can feel all alone in our struggles, challenges, problems, and difficulties even when there are people beside us who want to help. We must be willing to accept their help if we are going to be overcomers. Loneliness can break us and defeat us in any overcoming process. Elijah found himself feeling lonely and all alone. I'm sure his servant would have helped him, but he chose to leave him at Beersheba and he himself went into the wilderness. One of the worst things you can do when lonely is isolate yourself. Being around others can help you overcome and allow you to see that you aren't alone. Elijah became so depressed that he requested that God take his life. As believers, we should never get to this point in our life because there are so many people that we can talk to or rely upon to help us. As Paul said, "There has no temptation taken you but such as is common to man." You aren't the only one going through what you may be dealing with. Someone else has already gone through it and can offer you some help. Jesus tells us to call upon Him in the times of troubles. If you want someone to really listen when you are feeling lonely, get yourself a cool glass of tea or ice water, sit down for few minutes and listen to the voice of Jesus. Within a few moments, you will hear a bird singing you a love song.

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

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

2012 June 12 - Morning Manna

"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

Today's Morsel: Supportive family, friends, and a good church are key to healthy relationships. When we make mistakes or fall down, we need help to get up and get started again. If we stand by ourselves, we are a sure target for the enemy of our soul. We must learn to trust others, reach out to others, help others, and admit our needs to others. This will help us gain strength, wisdom, and protection against the things that may come against us. Solomon said, "Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up." Now you understand why Jesus sent His disciples out by two and the early church did likewise, because they knew that two are better than one.

Sing: Here we are together again just praising the Lord. Here we are together again just praising the Lord. It's been a while since we've seen each other, glad to be with my sisters and brothers, here we are, together again, just praising the name of the Lord.

2012 June 11 - Morning Manna

And Elihu the son of Barachel the Buzite answered and said, I am young, and ye are very old; wherefore I was afraid, and durst not shew you mine opinion. I said, Days should speak, and multitude of years should teach wisdom. But there is a spirit in man: and the inspiration of the Almighty giveth them understanding. (Job 32:6-8)

Today's Morsel: There will always be people like Elihu, who think they have all the answers. I am sure you've ran across some of these people in your life. They will give us reasons for our actions and condemn our lifestyle, thinking that wisdom has been given to them only. As a pastor once said, "They are so heavenly minded that they are no earthly good." We need to be careful about listening to these kind of people. We must consider when they speak, do they have our best interest at heart? Do their words build us up or tear us down? Is what they are saying in line with the Word of God? If the answer to any of these questions is no, then these aren't the people you want to listen to for counsel in your life. Elihu meant well, but his word, like Job's other three friends, did little to help Job cope with his suffering. Elihu set himself up as someone with an upright heart who spoke sincerely, and yet he accused Job of being prideful. The sins we accuse others of are often the very sins we may commit ourselves. When we identify a particular fault in others, we need to ask our self, "Am I guilt of this too?" If we hope to recover from our sins and be more like Jesus, we need to be honest and pinpoint the areas of denial in our own life and take them to Jesus for correction. Seek godly counsel, do not listen to everyone who tries to speak into your life.

Sing: Take your burdens to Jesus, your burden He'll share, tell Him your sorrows, your sorrow He'll share; He's wait there to bless you, with an outstretched hand, tell Him your trouble, oh yea, and He'll understand.

2012 June 9 - Morning Manna

But if the ministration of death, written and engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which glory was to be done away: (2 Corinthians 3:6-7)

Today's Morsel: Paul's contrast between the old covenant (the law of Moses) and the new covenant (Salvation through Jesus Christ) is applicable to any recovery process. The glory of the law, as well as the light shining upon Moses' face when he came down from the mountain before God, soon faded. This teaches us that the law was not a long-term solution to the sin problem. "And this I say, that the covenant, that was confirmed before of God in Christ, the law, which was four hundred and thirty years after, cannot disannul, that it should make the promise of none effect. For if the inheritance be of the law, it is no more of promise: but God gave it to Abraham by promise. Wherefore then serveth the law? It was added because of transgressions, till the seed should come to whom the promise was made; and it was ordained by angels in the hand of a mediator. Now a mediator is not a mediator of one, but God is one. Is the law then against the promises of God? God forbid: for if there had been a law given which could have given life, verily righteousness should have been by the law. But the scripture hath concluded all under sin, that the promise by faith of Jesus Christ might be given to them that believe. But before faith came, we were kept under the law, shut up unto the faith which should afterwards be revealed. Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith. But after that faith is come, we are no longer under a schoolmaster. For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ" Paul said (Galatians 3:17-27). And the writer of Hebrews tell us, "And every priest standeth daily ministering and offering oftentimes the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins: But this man, after he had offered one sacrifice for sins for ever, sat down on the right hand of God; From henceforth expecting till his enemies be made his footstool. For by one offering he hath perfected for ever them that are sanctified. Whereof the Holy Ghost also is a witness to us: for after that he had said before, This is the covenant that I will make with them after those days, saith the Lord, I will put my laws into their hearts, and in their minds will I write them; And their sins and iniquities will I remember no more. Now where remission of these is, there is no more offering for sin" (Hebrews 10:11-18).

Likewise, there are many humanistic programs and other means for dealing with people's problems. These programs spend millions to look good and say that they can help, but success through them seems to fade so rapidly. Jesus told Nicodemus, "You must be born again." The new life that Jesus offers is the only way to fully recover from your sins. "For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions that were under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament is, there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament is of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth. Whereupon neither the first testament was dedicated without blood. For when Moses had spoken every precept to all the people according to the law, he took the blood of calves and of goats, with water, and scarlet wool, and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book, and all the people, Saying, This is the blood of the testament which God hath enjoined unto you. Moreover he sprinkled with blood both the tabernacle, and all the vessels of the ministry. And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission" (Hebrews 9:13-22). If you want your sins remitted, get baptized in Jesus name. Because "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved" (Acts 4:12).

Sing: The Blood, that Jesus shed for me, way back on Calvary, it's the blood that gives me strength, from day to day, it will never lose it power.

For it reaches to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley, it's the blood that gives me strength from day to day, it will never lose its power.

2012 June 8 - Morning Manna

Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand. But I determined this with myself, that I would not come again to you in heaviness. For if I make you sorry, who is he then that maketh me glad, but the same which is made sorry by me? And I wrote this same unto you, lest, when I came, I should have sorrow from them of whom I ought to rejoice; having confidence in you all, that my joy is the joy of you all. For out of much affliction and anguish of heart I wrote unto you with many tears; not that ye should be grieved, but that ye might know the love which I have more abundantly unto you. (2 Corinthians 1:23-2:4)

Today's Morsel: One of the things in leadership is to know when to put the steel on the target. Paul seemed to be a leader who knew when to do just that. Too many leaders allow things to continue, thinking that they will correct themselves. Paul wasn't insensitive to the church's struggles and trials that they faced. But he wasn't about to allow them to just continue on without some form of correction for their wrong doings. He told them, "And I was with you in weakness, and in fear, and in much trembling. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power." Paul really wanted to be positive, but he concluded that there was no way to avoid honestly confronting them about their responsibility to God and others. Sometimes we too need to be comforted; but sometimes we need to be confronted. Good, honest confrontation can help us grow and become what God wants us to be. Someone said, "If you never need correcting, you aren't doing anything." When we confront others about their failures and wrong doings, we need to be ready to accept correction when others confront us about our's as well. It is often easy to judge others in order to cover up our shortcomings, but we need to learn to be open and honest in all ways. Remember Solomon said, "Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful" (Proverbs 27:5-6). So the next time someone confronts you about a wrong don't become angry, but look to see what God is doing in it.

Sing: Jesus paid it all, all to Him I owe; sin had left a crimson stain, and He washed it white as snow.

2012 June 7 - Morning Manna

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. (Colossians 3:1-3)

Today's Morsel: One of the things I always like to tell people when they are going through things in their lives is to stay focused. It's easy to lose sight of where you are headed if your mind is fuzzy and cluttered with other/evil thoughts. I'm sure there are some of you, like me, who have been headed somewhere and you miss your turn only to realize that now you have to drive another two or three miles just to turn around to get back to where you were headed because you were not paying attention to where you were going. This is what Paul was warning the church at Colossi. He wasn't urging them to deny the harsh reality of life; he was simply reminding them of where their focus should be. When our eyes are on Christ, we see this life from a different perspective. Notice what Isaiah said, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee" (Isaiah 26:3). In many ways, Paul wants us to realize the same thing that Isaiah spoke of. If we stay focused on Christ, our affections will be on heavenly things and not on things of this earth.

Sing: I'm going to a city, there'll be no more night. I'm going to the city where Jesus is the light. The trumpets gonna sound, and I'll be caught away, I'm going to a city some day.

6 June 2012 - Morning Manna

God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by his Son, whom he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also he made the worlds; Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; Being made so much better than the angels, as he hath by inheritance obtained a more excellent name than they. For unto which of the angels said he at any time, Thou art my Son, this day have I begotten thee? And again, I will be to him a Father, and he shall be to me a Son?
(Hebrews 1:1-5)

Today's Morsel: Like the book of Deuteronomy, the book of Hebrews is a book of remembrance. These two books call us to remember what the Lord has done, not only for Israel, but for us as well. All of us have felt the tug of old habits of our former lifestyle. Some have even given in and returned. Many of you have known the frustration it creates as you long for the familiar, even if it is destructive. Perhaps at times the challenge of being an over-comer seems too hard for you. That old life just seems to beckon, tempting us with that old familiar sources of comfort. This is what happened to Israel. They wanted to return to their old way of life even when they saw what God was doing for them. If we allow complacency to set in, we will want to return to the old life. The writer of Hebrews dealt with the doubt of many Jewish believers by showing how salvation in Jesus Christ is clearly superior to the way of the Jewish law. Reading through the book of Hebrews, like Deuteronomy, they are told to hold on to their faith, to encourage each other, and to look for the return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The key to remembrance is to always remember where you came from and to know that there is something better ahead of you.

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

2012 June 5 - Morning Manna

Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye lands: Sing forth the honour of his name: make his praise glorious. Say unto God, How terrible art thou in thy works! through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee. All the earth shall worship thee, and shall sing unto thee; they shall sing to thy name. Selah. Come and see the works of God: he is terrible in his doing toward the children of men. He turned the sea into dry land: they went through the flood on foot: there did we rejoice in him. He ruleth by his power for ever; his eyes behold the nations: let not the rebellious exalt themselves. Selah. (Psalms 66:1-7)

Today's Morsel: Both Psalms 66:1 and Psalms 100 begin with the same words: Make a joyful noise unto God, all ye land. When God demonstrates His power and His care for us, we need to share what He has done for us with others. We are not alone in our troubles. Some of our struggling friends and loved ones face the same problems we do. In many ways, I guess that's why scripture says that there hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man, but God is faithful (1 Corinthians 10:13). When others see us praising God for His deliverance, it can become a source of hope and inspiration for them as they too seek God for victory over whatever they may be going through or depending upon. We never know but that our praise may be the key to making someone free from themselves or their dependencies. Paul admonish us, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:1-2). The psalmist said, "You have turned my mourning into dancing and my sorrow into joy." John said, "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death" (Revelation 12:11).

Sing: You have turned, my mourning into dancing, you have turned my sorrow into joy. You have turned, my mourning into dancing, you have turned my sorrow into joy.

This is how we overcome! This is how we overcome! This is how we overcome. This is how we overcome.

You have turned, my mourning into dancing, you have turned my sorrow into joy.

2012 June 4 - Morning Manna

O God, thou knowest my foolishness; and my sins are not hid from thee. Let not them that wait on thee, O Lord GOD of hosts, be ashamed for my sake: let not those that seek thee be confounded for my sake, O God of Israel. Because for thy sake I have borne reproach; shame hath covered my face. I am become a stranger unto my brethren, and an alien unto my mother's children. (Psalms 69:5-8)

Today's Morsel: One of the toughest things for us all is to admit our sins. We all know when we do what isn't right. But for some reason we allow our flesh to control our emotions and turn our hearts from doing the right thing by repenting and seeking forgiveness from God. John said that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us of our sins, and cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9). David knew how important it was to recognize his sins and to admit them to God. This is an essential step toward recovery in our own life from any wrong or sin. We must accept responsibility for our actions and for what we have done in the past that may have brought about our sins. Then, like David, we should turn to God for forgiveness and restoration. The same way that God forgave David, He will forgive you if you will come to Him with a broken spirit and a contrite heart; because these things God will not despise.

Sing: One drop of blood washed away all my guilt and shame, he swept over my soul, removed all the hurt and pain, there's not even a spot, down in my heart, in fact, it's better than new; for it's amazing to me, what one drop of blood can do; and it's amazing to me, what one drop of blood can do.

2012 June 2 - Morning Manna

Make haste, O God, to deliver me; make haste to help me, O LORD. Let them be ashamed and confounded that seek after my soul: let them be turned backward, and put to confusion, that desire my hurt. Let them be turned back for a reward of their shame that say, Aha, aha. Let all those that seek thee rejoice and be glad in thee: and let such as love thy salvation say continually, Let God be magnified. But I am poor and needy: make haste unto me, O God: thou art my help and my deliverer; O LORD, make no tarrying. (Psalms 70:1-5)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the Army and serving as a First Sergeant, each morning at the end of formation I would ask the soldiers if anyone had any problems. I knew that if they had any issues we needed to address them so that they could take care of them, this way the problem would not grow and impact our unit readiness. And they knew that if they had problems and they did not seek out help at the earliest stage, if it came to me later, they would be as Solomon said, standing before a mean man (my wording). This prayer of David is short and to the point. He cried out to God for His help in the face of an emergency. It's possible to pray at any time and any place, and it is especially important when we are faced with a sudden temptation or dilemma. For many people, prayer is the last solution they think of in times of trouble. They try all kinds of human solutions before looking to God for help. But we who are born again and wise should always pray about everything. Paul admonishes us, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus"(Philippians 4:6-7). And he also told the church at Thessalonica, "Pray without ceasing"(1 Thessalonians 5:17). Jesus spake a parable unto them to this end, "That men ought always to pray, and not to faint" (Luke 18:1). We need to get into a habit of prayer about everything. Let's say that prayer is the way of staying in touch with heaven before things happen.

Sing: Hear my cry, oh God, attend unto my prayer, from the ends of the earth will I cry unto thee; and when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to that rock that is higher than I, so much higher than I.

2012 June 1 - Morning Manna

And David assembled all the princes of Israel, the princes of the tribes, and the captains of the companies that ministered to the king by course, and the captains over the thousands, and captains over the hundreds, and the stewards over all the substance and possession of the king, and of his sons, with the officers, and with the mighty men, and with all the valiant men, unto Jerusalem. Then David the king stood up upon his feet, and said, Hear me, my brethren, and my people: As for me, I had in mine heart to build an house of rest for the ark of the covenant of the LORD, and for the footstool of our God, and had made ready for the building: But God said unto me, Thou shalt not build an house for my name, because thou hast been a man of war, and hast shed blood. Howbeit the LORD God of Israel chose me before all the house of my father to be king over Israel for ever: for he hath chosen Judah to be the ruler; and of the house of Judah, the house of my father; and among the sons of my father he liked me to make me king over all Israel: And of all my sons, (for the LORD hath given me many sons,) he hath chosen Solomon my son to sit upon the throne of the kingdom of the LORD over Israel. And he said unto me, Solomon thy son, he shall build my house and my courts: for I have chosen him to be my son, and I will be his father. Moreover I will establish his kingdom for ever, if he be constant to do my commandments and my judgments, as at this day. Now therefore in the sight of all Israel the congregation of the LORD, and in the audience of our God, keep and seek for all the commandments of the LORD your God: that ye may possess this good land, and leave it for an inheritance for your children after you for ever. And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever. Take heed now; for the LORD hath chosen thee to build an house for the sanctuary: be strong, and do it.
(1 Chronicles 28:1-10)

Today's Morsel: David took time to pass God's wisdom on to his son, Solomon. He began by acknowledging God's promise of a dynasty that would rule Israel forever. But David recognized that in order to receive the blessings of this great promise, Solomon and his descendants were responsible to obey God's commands. Likewise, obedience to God's will is the only pathway to blessings for us and our descendants. If we desire the blessings of the Lord upon us, we, too, must be obedient to His will. As Paul told King Agrippa, "Whereupon, O king Agrippa, I was not disobedient unto the heavenly vision"(Acts 26:19). When our obedience excels, the blessings of the Lord will flow unto us.

Sing: I am blessed! I am blessed! Every day that I live I am blessed. When I wake-up in the morning, till I lay my head to rest, I am blessed, I am blessed.