2012 October 31 - Morning Manna

But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king: at his wrath the earth shall tremble, and the nations shall not be able to abide his indignation. (Jeremiah 10:10)

Today's Morsel: Probably the most excited moment in my life was not when I graduated from High School; got promoted to Command Sergeant Major in the U.S. Army; met the most wonderful woman in the whole world, my wife; being called of God into the ministry; watching my wonderful daughters being born; being the best man in my son's wedding; receiving the phone calls of all my wonderful grandkids being born; or being filled with the Holy Ghost. All those are great and wonderful things. But the most exciting moment in my life was when Jesus revealed to me who He is, The Mighty God. When I received this revelation, my life just seemed to fall into place. Where there was no joy, joy filled my soul. Where there was no love, love grew. Where life was out of control, temperance prevailed. A life that was turned upside down was made straight. Paul received his revelation of the Mighty God in Christ on the road to Damascus (Acts 9). Once you have this truth of The Mighty God (John 1:1-2;14), and you understand who you are in Him (1 John 3:1-3), everything else in your life flows freely. Jeremiah said, "But the LORD is the true God, he is the living God, and an everlasting king." John said, "And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life" (1 John 5:20). And Paul wanted Timothy to understand this truth, so he wrote, "And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory"(1 Timothy 3:16). To the church at Colossi Paul wrote, "Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power" (Colossians 2:8-10). Don't allow someone tell you that Jesus isn't God, because if you do you are going to die in your sins (John 8:24). Thank God for the revelation of truth.

Sing: Everybody ought know! Everybody ought know! Everybody ought know, who Jesus is. Everybody ought know! Everybody ought know! Everybody ought know, who Jesus is.

He's the Lily of the valley. He's the Bright and Morning Star. He's the Fairest of ten thousand, everybody ought to know.

2012 October 30 - Morning Manna

"This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth" (2 Timothy 3:1-7)

Today's Morsel: Often when I read scripture, I like to determine if it is something I should be looking to come or if it is taking place right now. I am somewhat like John the Baptist when he sent his disciple to Jesus. He said, "Art thou he that should come, or do we look for another?" (Matthew 11:2-3). So when I read scripture I try to determine if it is being fulfilled now. Paul told Timothy the above mentioned scriptures and he said in the last days that these things would happen. The same way that he wrote to the church at Roman, "For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet" (Romans 1:26-27). I believe that today's passage of scripture is being fulfilled right before our eyes from 1600 Pennsylvania North West, Washington D.C. But with all that said, I still cling to God's promise to Solomon when he said, "If I shut up heaven that there be no rain, or if I command the locusts to devour the land, or if I send pestilence among my people; If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land"(2 Chronicles 7:13-14). And I also believe what Paul told Timothy even though he instructed him about the perilous times in the last days when he said, "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time" (1 Timothy 2:1-6). I still believe that prayer changes things no matter how bad things may look.

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 October 29 - Morning Manna

The LORD of hosts hath sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand: That I will break the Assyrian in my land, and upon my mountains tread him under foot: then shall his yoke depart from off them, and his burden depart from off their shoulders. This is the purpose that is purposed upon the whole earth: and this is the hand that is stretched out upon all the nations. (Isaiah 14:24-26)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the army, each time we had to teach a class, we always had to explain the purpose for the class. In other words, why was the class important and what did they need this class for. How will the class benefit them? Many people will ask the question for what purpose was the attack on 911? Or they may ask for what purpose did you buy that or for what purpose did you do that? Purpose. For what reason. For what point. For what intention or for what use. Solomon tells us that to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1). He said that every purpose has a time. There is the time for the purpose and once people understand the purpose we can silence the critics. The woman with the alabaster box was criticized for wasting such precious ointment because those present didn't understand the purpose. But once Jesus told them that she had come to anoint His body for burial, they were silenced. Jesus knew His purpose on the earth was complete. Therefore the time had come to fulfill the purpose and so the woman least expected was chose by God at the right time to fulfill the purpose. What is God's purpose for your life? Are you fulfilling that purpose? The LORD of hosts has sworn, saying, Surely as I have thought, so shall it come to pass; and as I have purposed, so shall it stand.

Sing: He's the only reason I live, and oh what a reason. He's the only reason I live, and ohwhat a reason. There's nothing in this world, worth living for, it only leaves you empty and longing for more; He's the only reason I live, and oh what a reason.

2012 October 27 - Morning Manna

"For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars" (2 Chronicles 16:9)

Today's Morsel: There used to be this program called Candid Camera. They would hide their cameras and then have people do foolish things or play tricks on them and then they would tell them to smile that they were on candid camera. In other words we've been watching you. In many ways, we are on candid camera. God sees everything that we do. Scripture says that the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong io the behalf of them whose heart are perfect toward him. God knows and see everything that we, His children, do and the places that we go. The Psalmist says, "O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it. Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea; Even there shall thy hand lead me, and thy right hand shall hold me" (Psalms 139:1-10). Notice what the writer says that His eyes run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. God doesn't do this for everyone. It is a sign of divine protection and oversight on behalf of those whose heart is complete in Him. Jesus wants to ensure that nothing happens to His sheep. So fret not little flock. Are you complete in Him?

Sing: 1. I have a Maker, He formed my heart, before even time began my life was in his hands. (Chorus)

2. I have a Father, He calls me His own, He'll never leave me, no matter where I go. (Chorus)

Chorus: He knows my name, He knows my every thought, He sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call.

2012 October 26 - Morning Manna

And the LORD spake unto Moses, Go unto Pharaoh, and say unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Let my people go, that they may serve me. And if thou refuse to let them go, behold, I will smite all thy borders with frogs: And the river shall bring forth frogs abundantly, which shall go up and come into thine house, and into thy bedchamber, and upon thy bed, and into the house of thy servants, and upon thy people, and into thine ovens, and into thy kneadingtroughs: And the frogs shall come up both on thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants. And the LORD spake unto Moses, Say unto Aaron, Stretch forth thine hand with thy rod over the streams, over the rivers, and over the ponds, and cause frogs to come up upon the land of Egypt. And Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt; and the frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. And the magicians did so with their enchantments, and brought up frogs upon the land of Egypt. Then Pharaoh called for Moses and Aaron, and said, Intreat the LORD, that he may take away the frogs from me, and from my people; and I will let the people go, that they may do sacrifice unto the LORD. And Moses said unto Pharaoh, Glory over me: when shall I intreat for thee, and for thy servants, and for thy people, to destroy the frogs from thee and thy houses, that they may remain in the river only? And he said, To morrow. And he said, Be it according to thy word: that thou mayest know that there is none like unto the LORD our God. And the frogs shall depart from thee, and from thy houses, and from thy servants, and from thy people; they shall remain in the river only. And Moses and Aaron went out from Pharaoh: and Moses cried unto the LORD because of the frogs which he had brought against Pharaoh. And the LORD did according to the word of Moses; and the frogs died out of the houses, out of the villages, and out of the fields. And they gathered them together upon heaps: and the land stank. (Exodus 8:1-14)

Today's Morsel: Frogs. We have heard people say, "I've got a frog in my throat" meaning they are hoarse and can't talk. My wife has a thing that she places in the base of her flower vase to hold the flower stems and that is called a frog. I often call my granddaughter frog. We have a sister in the church in Taiwan and if her name is pronounced incorrectly it means frog and so we call her Froggie. Then there are those green looking and blackish looking creatures that hop that we call frogs and this is what came upon the land of Egypt. They were everywhere. The Lord said "And the river shall bring forth frogs abundantly, which shall go up and come into thine house, and into thy bedchamber, and upon thy bed, and into the house of thy servants, and upon thy people, and into thine ovens, and into thy kneadingtroughs: And the frogs shall come up both on thee, and upon thy people, and upon all thy servants.

Can you imagine going to bed and there's a frog, sitting down to eat and there's a frog, getting ready to make dinner and there's a frog. Instead of pigs in the blanket (the small hot dogs inside of bread) you've got frogs in a blanket! The boys don't have to chase the girls with the frogs, they are going to be chasing them themselves. There isn't a shortage of frog legs there in Egypt. Frogs are everywhere. All these frogs came about because of Pharaoh's disobedience to let the children of Israel go. "And Aaron stretched out his hand over the waters of Egypt; and the frogs came up, and covered the land of Egypt. And the magicians did so with their enchantments, and brought up frogs upon the land of Egypt"(Exodus 8:6-7). How dumb can one be? The Lord sends something against you, and because you want to prove yourself, so you double the problem trying to prove you have power. Scripture tells us that there is no power but of God. Why didn't Pharaoh get the magicians and astrologers to get rid of the frogs if they were able to produce them. I'll tell you why. Because Satan only has power to get you into a mess, he doesn't have the power to get you out of it! Satan has this world in a mess. You can select all the politicians you want. You can be democrat, republican or even independent. The only way we are going to get out of this mess is we have to have a delivered. The only way Pharaoh could get rid of those frogs was by the hand of God. Man isn't going to get us out of this mess, we need someone greater. And Jesus knowing this 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). Thank God for His delivering power.

Sing: In sin I wandered sore and sad with bleeding heart and aching head, till Jesus came and sweetly said, "I'll take your sins away."

Thank God for the blood! Thank God for the blood! Thank God for the blood that washes white as snow.

2012 October 25 - Morning Manna

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: (Hebrews 12:14)

Today's Morsel: One of the ways that I can tell people are starting to grow cold in the Lord and may starting to become a little weary is they will begin to say, "I don't believe that" or "That is your opinion" or "Is it a heaven or hell issue?" When they say is it a heaven or hell issue they are saying, "If it won't keep me out of heaven, then it's okay for me to do. But if it will land me in hell, then I won't do it." Funny how some think, isn't it? Are you aware that many people don't know what is a heaven or hell issue. I have found a few things in scripture that are heaven and hell issues. So let me share them with you:

"Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).

"But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him"(Hebrews 11:6).

"For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: But if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses" (Matthew 6:14-15).

"Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin" (James 4:17).

"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord" (Romans 6:23)

"But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death"(Revelation 21:8).

So the next time someone asks you if it is a heaven or hell issue, give them Jesus' advise:

"Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock. And every one that heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built his house upon the sand: And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell: and great was the fall of it"(Matthew 7:21-27).

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 October 24 - Morning Manna

Then Job answered and said, Even to day is my complaint bitter: my stroke is heavier than my groaning. Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat! I would order my cause before him, and fill my mouth with arguments. I would know the words which he would answer me, and understand what he would say unto me. Will he plead against me with his great power? No; but he would put strength in me. There the righteous might dispute with him; so should I be delivered for ever from my judge. (Job 23:1-7)

Today's Morsel: Job, while going through his trial and in the discussion with his friends said, "Oh that I knew where I might find him! that I might come even to his seat! I would order my cause before him, and fill my mouth with arguments." Really what Job is saying was, "If I could come face to face with God, I'd give Him a piece of my mind." Have you ever had one of those moments that you felt like you would like to talk with God face to face? I'm sure there are a lot of people who would. But even the most bravest person would soon come to their senses when it came to appearing before God. Even the centurion said, I'm a man under authority, but I'm not worthy that you should even come under my roof (paraphrased). And whether many people know it or not, God is right there in front of them. Therefore, they could speak to Him at anytime. But many of them are like Job, when he said, "Therefore am I troubled at his presence: when I consider, I am afraid of him" (Job 23:15). Job realized his error in speaking because he was in pain and listening to criticism and so he was just speaking foolishly. Even King Hezekiah was troubled and feared when Isaiah told him what God had said (Isaiah 38:1-3). Even though we are serving an Almighty, loving and compassionate God, He still requires and demands our respect.

Sing: You know the Lord's been good, He's really been good. He's been so good to me, I just can't let Him down, I can't let Him down, I can't let Him down, He's been so good to me.

2012 October 23 - Morning Manna

 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort. Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon. (Daniel 3:26-30)

Today's Morsel: We hear a lot about different agencies that are responsible for the protection people.  Agencies such as The Environmental Protection Agency, whose duty calls for keeping  the air and water ways clean; The Custom and Border Agency, whose duty is to protect illegal people from crossing the boards; The Federal Trade Commission, whose duty is consumer protection; The Protection and Advocacy Systems (P&As) work at the state level to protect individuals with developmental disabilities by empowering them and advocating on their behalf; and the list goes on.  But God's people also have their protection agency.  It s called the church.  It is governed by the Holy Ghost, and it's rules and laws are taken from the Bible. As the Lord said, "Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me" (Hebrews 13:5-6).  When Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to the king's command, they were cast into the fiery furnace.  But to the king's surprise, they were not burned as he thought because they knew the head of the agency that would protect them, Almighty God.  The psalmist informs and admonishes us, "I called upon the LORD in distress: the LORD answered me, and set me in a large place. The LORD is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me? The LORD taketh my part with them that help me: therefore shall I see my desire upon them that hate me. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes."(Psalms 118:5-9).  Who is your protection agency?

Sing: I got a God who with His angels watches over me, I've got a God who puts my enemies beneath my feet, I got a God who's with me when I'm sick and when I'm feeling well, I've got a God, I've got a God, and my God, will never fail, I have a God.

And that's why, He brought me out of the miry clay, He set my feet on a Rock to stay; He puts a song in my soul today, a song of praise, hallelujah.

2012 October 22 - Morning Manna

For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away. When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity. (1 Corinthians 13:9-13)

Today's Morsel: Just a few weeks ago, when I went out to exercise at 4:30 or so in the morning, I could see everywhere I was going and what was on the road before me because it was light out.  But now, at the same time, it still dark out and I can't see what is on the road before me.  Paul said that we now see through a glass darkly. When we look into scripture, we don't really understand it all. But as we keep reading and studying God's word, it begins to illuminate before us and bring about an understanding. This is one of the reasons that each year as you read your Bible through, new things are revealed to you.  It was there before, but your eyes were not open to it.  Paul said, "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them. For we preach not ourselves, but Christ Jesus the Lord; and ourselves your servants for Jesus' sake."(2 Corinthians 4:3-5).  The gospel is the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  So until the scales are removed from one's eyes, as the apostle Paul's were, they will continue to live, talk and walk in darkness.  The apostle Peter tells us, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy" (1 Peter 2:9-10).  Spiritual enlightenment begins with the knowledge of truth. "Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us. Jesus saith unto him,  Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?"(John 14:6-9).  Once we have that truth, that same truth enlightens us.

Sing: Light of the world You stepped down into darkness. Opened my eyes, let me see. Beauty that made this heart adore You, Hope of a life spent with You.

Here I am to worship, Here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You're my God. You're altogether lovely, All together worthy, All together wonderful to me.

2012 October 20 - Morning Manna

He that hath knowledge spareth his words: and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. (Proverbs 17:27-28)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever seen those people that every time someone starts to say something, they always seem to have to take over the conversation and they think that they know what the person was going to be talking about? Talk radio and news programs do that a lot and that's one of the reasons I don't listen to them. To cut someone off in the middle of a sentence so you can interject what you want to say, is rude and bad manners. Really, it shows a lack of etiquette, which seems to have vacated the premises not to the mention the church. It seems that more people today have a hard time listening. People just don't seem to have the time to sit and listen any more. Children are trying to talk when their parent are talking; one spouse is trying to get the other spouse to listen; saints are trying to get the ministry to listen them; everyone seems to be talking and no one seems to have the time to listen. To be a good counselor and to assist people, you have to be a person of few words. Solomon said, "He that hath knowledge spareth his words and a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit. Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding." Did you hear what Jesus said to you today through His word, or were you talking and thinking of all the things you had to do? If you can't repeat what you read back to yourself, chances are you weren't listening.

Sing: He speaks, and the sound of His voice is so sweet the birds hush their singing, and the melody that He gave to me, within my heart is ringing.
And He walks with me and talks with me, and He tells me I am His own; and the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.

2012 October 19 - Morning Manna

Thou, O king, hast made a decree, that every man that shall hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, shall fall down and worship the golden image: And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. There are certain Jews whom thou hast set over the affairs of the province of Babylon, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego; these men, O king, have not regarded thee: they serve not thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then Nebuchadnezzar in his rage and fury commanded to bring Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. Then they brought these men before the king. Nebuchadnezzar spake and said unto them, Is it true, O Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, do not ye serve my gods, nor worship the golden image which I have set up? Now if ye be ready that at what time ye hear the sound of the cornet, flute, harp, sackbut, psaltery, and dulcimer, and all kinds of musick, ye fall down and worship the image which I have made; well: but if ye worship not, ye shall be cast the same hour into the midst of a burning fiery furnace; and who is that God that shall deliver you out of my hands? Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: therefore he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated. And he commanded the most mighty men that were in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their other garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, and spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. (Daniel 3:10-25)

Today's Morsel: How do you respond when the odds are against you? Do you cave in or do you take a stand for your opinion and convictions? I believe that in these last days, we are going to have to take a stronger stand for what we believe and not cave in to peer pressure and what others may think about us. Scripture says, " If the spirit of the ruler rise up against thee, leave not thy place; for yielding pacifieth great offences"(Ecclesiastes 10:4). It would have been easy for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to bow to the king's command knowing that they were already in captivity, but they chose to take a stand for their God, and their God, the living God, came through for them. So the next time you are faced with taking a stand against unrighteousness, "Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" (Ephesians 6:14-18). Anytime you take a stand for truth, Truth will come through for you.

SING: God will take care of you, through every day, o'er all the way; he will take care of you, God will take care of you.

2012 October 18 - Morning Manna

And I saw an angel come down from heaven, having the key of the bottomless pit and a great chain in his hand. And he laid hold on the dragon, that old serpent, which is the Devil, and Satan, and bound him a thousand years, And cast him into the bottomless pit, and shut him up, and set a seal upon him, that he should deceive the nations no more, till the thousand years should be fulfilled: and after that he must be loosed a little season. (Revelation 20:1-3)

Today's Morsel: When I was a kid, our neighbor had a very large dog that they kept attached to a chain for their home protection. In every way, this dog seemed to be very vicious. We never knew if they would have him chained or not. And so each time we had to pass their house, we would do our best to be as quiet as possible so as to not arouse the dog. We didn't want the dog to hear us passing if he wasn't chained and have him chase after us. Thankfully, they usually did keep him on a chain. Satan is on a chain. He is bound. He can't do you any harm. Therefore, you should not fear what he can do to you. Jesus gave you power over him (Luke 10:19). We shouldn't even be hearing any testimonies about what he is doing to us. He should not be receiving any credit of what he's accomplishing in and against the church during our testimonies. So anytime you start to think that he's causing you harm or that he can get to you, just remember that he's on a chain and at the mention of the name of Jesus, Satan begins to tremble.

Sing: Well, I command you Satan in the name of the Lord, to pick up your weapons and flee. For God has given me authority, to walk all over thee.

2012 October 17 - Morning Manna

For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you. (John 13:15).

Today's Morsel: Are you a good example? Whether you think so or not, you are influencing someone else every day. Whether it is for the good or the bad, you are influencing someone else. Mothers and fathers are influencing their children by the things they say, do, watch, read, and the places they go. Pastors are influencing their congregations. Businessmen are influencing their employees. And presidents influence their nations and constituents. It is sad to say, many of us may never consider what influence we are having on others until it is too late. I was in a store once, and I heard all this profanity taking place, and so I was going to correct the situation. And as I rounded the corner to see where it was coming from, to my surprise, it was a little 3 year old in a shopping cart, using this language towards his father. I'm sure many of you have seen and heard the same thing, especially in today's world. A good example always starts at home, as the parents of the home are leadership. Good leadership always sets a good example. Jesus told His disciples, "I have given you an example." It's one of the main principles of leadership. Setting the example. Leaders who do not set a good example before their followers, will see the same example from them. Solomon said, "If a ruler hearken to lies, all his servants are wicked"(Proverbs 29:12). Scripture says, "Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said, The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain" (2 Samuel 23:1-4). The best example you can give to others is a godly example, because that's what Jesus left us.

Sing: Show me Your ways, That I may walk with You. Show me Your ways, I put my hope in You. Chorus: The cry of my heart, Is to love You more, To live with the touch of Your hand. Stronger each day, Show me Your ways.

2012 October 16 - Morning Manna

Because I have called, and ye refused; I have stretched out my hand, and no man regarded; But ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none of my reproof: I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you.
(Proverbs 1:24-27)

Today's Morsel: After 911, many people became afraid to fly. And even today, many will not travel to foreign countries for fear of flying and the unknown. Even here in this land of plenty, many are now fearful of what is taking place throughout the land and the world. Many are asking what is going on. Why is there so much unrest and fighting? Jesus said, "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken" (Luke 21:25-26). Is what we are seeing because of us not heeding the Lord's call? Is it because we have not accepted his counsel and obeyed His word? Scripture tells us, "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that forget God" (Psalms 9:17). The last time I checked, the word "all" means all, everyone. Therefore, there is no nation or people that forgets God that will survive His destruction. Are there misfortunes in your life? Does it seem as though your world is being turned upside down? As an individual, have you refused God's call to you? Have you refused to take hold of His hand? To understand the Lord of God, you have to answer His call and take hold of His hand. "But I say, Have they not heard? Yes verily, their sound went into all the earth, and their words unto the ends of the world. But I say, Did not Israel know? First Moses saith, I will provoke you to jealousy by them that are no people, and by a foolish nation I will anger you. But Esaias is very bold, and saith, I was found of them that sought me not; I was made manifest unto them that asked not after me. But to Israel he saith, All day long I have stretched forth my hands unto a disobedient and gainsaying people" (Romans 10:18-21).

Sing: Jesus, hold my hand, Lord I need Thee every hour. Through this pilgrim land, protect me by Thy saving power; hear, my feeble plea, Oh Lord, look down on me, when I kneel in prayer, I know I'll meet You there; blessed Jesus hold my hand.

2012 October 15 - Morning Manna

Hear, O heavens, and give ear, O earth: for the LORD hath spoken, I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me. The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. (Isaiah 1:2-3)

Today's Morsel: When I was a kid, we farmed using mules. It was amazing to me how well those old mules knew their way home as well as how well they knew our voices. When I came home from school, I could just call to them and they would come.

The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah that the ox knows his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. Why don't the people of God know and understand their master? Why do they not consider that the things they do and that the places they go may go against the word of God? Jesus said, "Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am" (John 13:13). He further admonish, "And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say" (Luke 6:46)? Should not we know our Master and Lord? Should we not do what He has commanded of us to do? When is the last time you sat down and considered if you are doing what God has commanded you. The Lord said through the Prophet Haggai, "Now therefore thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways. Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways" (Haggai 1:5-7). Have you considered why your aren't being satisfied? Are your ways according to His word? If we don't consider our ways, we could easily end up in the wrong way and doing the wrong thing. If we say that we know Him, then we ought to walk the same as He walked, John said (1 John 2:6), and we should always be considering our ways.

Sing: The other day I sat down to ponder, on all the Lord had done for me. And I said Lord I want to thank you for the way you have brought me through. As I rose to depart from His presence, I heard His voice speaking softly to me.

Don't forget, to tell others about me. Don't forget to meantion My name. Don't forget tell them how much I love them, and don't forget the reason I came.

2012 October 13 - Morning Manna

For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? (Matthew 20:1-6)

Today's Morsel: The biggest discussion in the upcoming presidential election is the economy. All I hear about is people being out of work. Are they really out of work, or do they just don't won't to work? Are they out of work or do they not want to work where the jobs are being offered or the pay isn't what they want to accept? Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. These men Jesus spoke of were willing to work for a penny a day. And everyone that was willing to work in his vineyard, he hired them and sent them in the field to work. Notice, they all started with the same salary. They were all offered the same thing. None of them were selected to be higher than the other. This parable isn't about money, it's about all being on the same level in God's kingdom. It's about all laboring to seek and to save the lost regardless of the price being offered. You see there are many who will not work in the kingdom of God because there is no monetary value given. Working in God's kingdom isn't about monetary value, it's about spiritual value. When you work in God's kingdom, He supplies all your needs, both spiritual and physical. You will never have to worry about being without. As David said, "I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread" (Psalms 37:25). Paul told the church at Thessalonica , "For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies. Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread. But ye, brethren, be not weary in well doing. And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed"(2 Thessalonians 3:7-14). Are you working?

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

2012 October 12 - Morning Manna

But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Having a good conscience; that, whereas they speak evil of you, as of evildoers, they may be ashamed that falsely accuse your good conversation in Christ. For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing. (1 Peter 3:15-17)

Today's Morsel: If someone were to ask you what the will of God is could you tell them? How many of you know what the will of God is for your life? Have you ever heard someone say, "I wish I knew what the will of God is for my life?" Well, let me give you a few scriptures to help you:

"See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men. Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:15-18).

"And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint" (Luke 18:1).

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).

"Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good. Abstain from all appearance of evil" (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22).

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."(2 Peter 3:9).

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

And finally, "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks" (Ephesians 5:1-4).

As Peter said, "For it is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for well doing, than for evil doing."

Sing: Have thine own way Lord! Have Thine own way! Thou art the Potter, I am the clay. Mould me and make me after Thy will, while I am waiting yielded and still.

2012 October 11 - Morning Manna

And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God, Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal; And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel: On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates. And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb. And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof. And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal. And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel. And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass. And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald; The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst. (Revelation 21:10-20)

Today's Morsel: When we look at our new home in heaven as displayed by John, we see that it is not only going to be robust and huge, but it is also going to be beautiful. As I looked at this building, John reveals the beauty of the foundation by identifying precious gems that are within them. Aaron's breast plate was also displayed with precious gems representing each tribe of Israel. Therefore, we can see the type of shadow from earthly things for heavenly things. The breast plate worn by Aaron, represented the beauty of righteousness and holiness and strength and power in one. The church is one. Paul said, "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord: In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit" (Ephesians 2:19-22). That means that born again believers' lives must be built upon a solid foundation. Why did John draw our attention to the beauty of the foundation, and why must our lives be built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets? Because beauty is the quality presented in a thing or person that gives intense pleasure or deep satisfaction to the mind, whether it arises from sensory manifestations, a meaningful design or pattern, or something else such as a personality in which high spiritual qualities are manifested. We don't usually look at a foundation of a building as being beautiful because it isn't seen. This is why Peter tells us, "Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price" (1 Peter 3:3-4). Peter said that your beauty is hidden within. And when beauty is hidden within, it will be revealed outward for all to see. This is why scripture admonishes us, "Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness" (Psalms 29:2). Holiness sets us as believers apart from nonbelievers. All because the beauty of holiness is the foundation of the church.

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 moved.

2012 October 10 - Morning Manna

And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:1-4)

Today's Morsel: Acts chapter 2 is a fulfillment of many prophecies from the Old Testament scriptures, and no born again believer should be surprised at what happened. The Psalmist had recorded, "Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope. For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore"(Psalms 16:9-11). The Prophet Isaiah recorded, "For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little: For with stammering lips and another tongue will he speak to this people. To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear" (Isaiah 28:10-12). And the Prophet Jeremiah recorded, "Thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Take these evidences, this evidence of the purchase, both which is sealed, and this evidence which is open; and put them in an earthen vessel, that they may continue many days." (Jeremiah 32:14). And even the Prophet Ezekiel penned, "And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them."(Ezekiel 36:27). Micah, one of the minor prophets recorded, "But truly I am full of power by the spirit of the LORD, and of judgment, and of might, to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin" (Micah 3:8). And Jesus Himself said, "But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you" (John 14:26). He also told His disciples, "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high," (Luke 24:49). Luke records the fulfillment of these prophecies when he wrote, "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." There are other indicators that you have been filled with God's Spirit as displayed by the fruits of the Spirit in one's life (Galatians 5:22-23). But the undisputable evidence to oneself of being filled with God's Spirit is speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives the utterance, the same as it did upon the 120 in the upper room on the Day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts chapter 2, and the Gentiles in Acts 10:44-48. As Jesus said, "Search the scriptures" (John 5:39-40).

Sing: The wind is blowing again! The wind is blowing again! Just like the day of Pentecost, the wind is blowing again!

On the day of Pentecost, a mighty rushing wind, blew into the upper room, and baptized all of them; with a power greater than any earth foe, I now I'm so glad I've got it too, I want to let the whole world know.

Because greater is He that's within me, greater is He that's within me, greater is He that's within me, than he that is in the world.

2012 October 9 - Morning Manna

And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him? (Mark 4:35-41)

Today's Morsel: When I was a kid, attending the Methodist Church where I grew up, when you came through the front door of the church, there wasn't any light switches to turn on the lights. I don't know who designed or wired the church, but the light switches were in the back of the church behind the choir loft and preaching area. So to tell a teenager to go turn on the lights when he got to church was like walking on pins and needles, especially after we had just had a funeral. Thank God for His Redeeming Power.

When the apostles of Jesus found themselves in a storm and they felt that their lives were going to be lost, yes they had fear, and Jesus asked them why were they so fearful, how was it that they had no faith. I can identify with the apostles. The same way for me to go turn on those lights was testing my faith, this storm was testing theirs'. Even though Jesus was with them and He was with me, I still didn't know if anything or anyone else was in there or not. Fear is FalseEvidence Appearing Real. There's just something about that apprehension that we just don't know. I'm sure the apostles were like the man when he said, "Lord I believe, but help Thou my unbelief." John said that fear torments us. And I totally agree. There are just somethings that this humanity has to overcome, and fear is one of them. God didn't give it to us. And thanks be to God who has given me the victory over this enemy and He will give it to you too.

Sing: Precious Lord, take my hand, lead me, on let me stand, I am tired, I am weak, I am lone, through the storm, through the night lead me on to the light, take my hand precious Lord and lead me home.

2012 October 8 - Morning Manna

"Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end. And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him; Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into his hands, and that he was come from God, and went to God; He riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments; and took a towel, and girded himself. After that he poureth water into a bason, and began to wash the disciples' feet, and to wipe them with the towel wherewith he was girded. Then cometh he to Simon Peter: and Peter saith unto him, Lord, dost thou wash my feet? Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter. Peter saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet. Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with me. Simon Peter saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but also my hands and my head. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to wash his feet, but is clean every whit: and ye are clean, but not all. For he knew who should betray him; therefore said he, Ye are not all clean. So after he had washed their feet, and had taken his garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye what I have done to you? Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well; for so I am. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you" (John 13:1-15)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever gotten to the point where you have felt like just stopping giving and doing things for others because they never seem appreciative of what you are doing for them? I mean you bake them a meal and they never say thanks. You give them a ride to work and they give you a look as if to say this is what you're suppose to do as a Christian. They send their kids to your house without being cleaned and fed and you take care of them and not a word of thanks is given back to you. And so after a period of time you start feeling like you are being used. And so you say, that's it, I'm not going to do this again. And then you find yourself doing it all over again for them because you think this just might be the time that the light bulb goes on, and they give their lives to Christ. And it's the same old thing all over again. Nothing changes. Sound familiar? Well, welcome to Jesus' world. The Bible says, "Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that his hour was come that he should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world, he loved them unto the end." Jesus knew He was going to be crucified and yet He still loved people. He still gave us an example of servitude. Do you know that He washed Judas' feet as well as Peter's. Judas sold him for 30 pieces of silver, and Peter denied Him three times and yet He still loved them to the end. But after Peter's conversion, He wrote to encourage us, "Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf" (1 Peter 4:12-16). God's love isn't about us, it's about Jesus.

Sing: There've been times when giving and loving brought pain, and I promised I would never let it happen again; but I found out that loving was well worth the risk, and that even in losing you win.

I'm going to live the way He wants me to live, I'm going to give until there's just no more to give; I'm going to love, love till there's just no more love, I could never, never out love the Lord.

2012 October 6 - Morning Manna

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (Hebrews 6:9-20)

Today's Morsel: One of the things I always look for when I get on board a boat is its anchor. The anchor is designed to hold the boat in place and prevent it from moving. No matter how rough the storm, waves or the wind, the anchor, if correct, will hold the boat in place. The writer of Hebrews said that we have an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil. And he said that anchor is Jesus Christ. When our souls are anchored to Christ, we aren't going anywhere. This is why you shouldn't sweat the small stuff if your soul is anchored in Him. Hell can't uproot you. Sinners can't unloose you. And church divisions can't divide you. David said "For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God? " (2 Samuel 22:32). Jesus is solid and unmovable. He's the same yesterday, today, and forever. When you connect to Him, He holds you in the palm of His hand and no man can pluck you out. John said, that greater is he that is within you, than he that is in the world. And Paul said that nothing shall be able to separate you from the love of God, because God is love and love is of God. Are you connected to the Rock? Jesus is the only Rock that cannot be shaken or moved.

Sing: My hope is built on nothing less, Than Jesus' blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, but wholly, lean on Jesus name.

On Christ the Solid Rock, I stand; all other ground is sinking sand, all other ground is sinking sand.