2013 April 30 - Morning Manna

Then spake Solomon, The LORD said that he would dwell in the thick darkness. (1 Kings 8:12).

Today's Morsel: Faith is being able to see God in darkness. When you are inundated with trials, troubles and circumstances it is often hard to see God at work in your life. These are what I like to call dark times. But Solomon says that God said that he would dwell in the thick darkness. So no matter how dark it may seem to you, God is right there working it out with you. One of the things we find in scripture is that in the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, Moses was not told to put any light in the Holy of Holies. The candle sticks were only to be placed in the sanctuary. The Lord dwelt in the Holy of Holies. Therefore, because He is the Light, there was no need for light within the Holy of Holies. Once you are exposed to the light in the sanctuary, you should always have that light with you and no matter how much darkness you encounter, you should always be able to see God's presence.

 

Sing: 1. I wandered so aimlessly in life filled with sin, I wouldn't let my dear saviour in, then Jesus came like a stranger in the night, Praise the Lord I saw the light. (Chorus)

2. Just like a blind man I wandered along, worries and fears I claimed for my own, then like the blind man that God gave back his sight, Praise the Lord I saw the light. (Chorus)

Chorus
I saw the light, I saw the light, no more in darkness no more night, Now I'm so happy, no sorrow in sight, Praise the Lord I saw the light.

2013 April 29 - Morning Manna

The spider taketh hold with her hands, and is in kings' palaces. (Proverbs 30:28)

Today's Morsel: The Itsy Bitsy spider climbed up the water spout, down came the rain and washed the spider out, out came the sun and dried up all the rain, and the Itsy Bitsy spider went up the spout again!

I don't care how big a house is and how much you clean it, the spider just seems to find a way to get inside. The spider is persistent when it comes to going where it wants to go. Since we already know our destiny, then we too must be persistent and ensure we get there. Solomon said that the spider takes hold with her hands and is in king's palaces. I believe that we need to take hold of Jesus' hand and not let go and we will find ourselves in The King's palace, as He is the King of kings and Lord of lords. Even if the waters of afflictions and rivers of depression are trying to keep us from reaching our destination, we must press on toward the mark for the prize. "For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again " (Proverbs 24:16).

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

2013 April 27 - Morning Manna

"And it came to pass after this, that Absalom prepared him chariots and horses, and fifty men to run before him. And Absalom rose up early, and stood beside the way of the gate: and it was so, that when any man that had a controversy came to the king for judgment, then Absalom called unto him, and said, Of what city art thou? And he said, Thy servant is of one of the tribes of Israel. And Absalom said unto him, See, thy matters are good and right; but there is no man deputed of the king to hear thee. Absalom said moreover, Oh that I were made judge in the land, that every man which hath any suit or cause might come unto me, and I would do him justice! And it was so, that when any man came nigh to him to do him obeisance, he put forth his hand, and took him, and kissed him. And on this manner did Absalom to all Israel that came to the king for judgment: so Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel" (2 Samuel 15:1-6)

Today's Morsel: One of the goals of the enemy of your soul is to steal your heart. Satan is no fool. He knows that if he can get you to focus on yourself and on what you don't have, then he can steal your heart by offering you those things. Paul said, "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ"(2 Corinthians 11:3). He stole Eves' heart by making her think that God was hiding something from her. He stole Judas' heart for thirty pieces of silver; Solomon's heart by many strange women; and Demas' heart for the things of this world. Scripture says that Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel by showing them kindness. So many have been snared by the enemy of their soul because their enemy has used kindness through others to deceive them and lead them astray. One of the gifts of the Spirit, is the discernment of spirits. Therefore, we must be able to discern and try the spirits to see if they be of God, because many false prophets are gone out into the world. Many today are in bad relationships and are suffering from hurts because they had their hearts stolen by someone who wasn't true. The enemy will come to steal, kill and destroy; don't be fooled by his tricks.

Sing:Satan's like a roaring lion walking to and fro, seeking whom he may devour the Bible tells me so. Many souls have been his prey to fall in some weak hour, but God has promised us today, His overcoming power.

Greater is He that is with me, Greater is He that is in me, greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world.

2013 April 26 - Morning Manna

"In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple. Above it stood the seraphims: each one had six wings; with twain he covered his face, and with twain he covered his feet, and with twain he did fly. And one cried unto another, and said, Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. And the posts of the door moved at the voice of him that cried, and the house was filled with smoke. Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts" (Isaiah 6:1-5)

Today's Morsel: When the children of Israel were preparing to depart Egypt, the Lord told Moses that when they cooked their lamb, they were not to eat of it raw. "And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it. Eat not of it raw, nor sodden at all with water, but roast with fire; his head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof" (Exodus 12:8-9). I don't believe that Jesus ate Sushi and Sashimi! "As soon then as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread" (John 21:9). Jesus cooked his food. And even after his resurrection, "And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat? And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb" (Luke 24:41-42).

Isaiah said that when He saw the Lord, he realized that he was undone. He was not ready, he needed to be 'cooked' some more. And so he had to be touched from the altar with a live coal before he was ready. He had to have some more fire upon his life. If you are still struggling with things of this world in your life, you may need to go back on the altar because Jesus wants you well done. Jesus desires you to be complete in Him.

Sing: The disciples came to land, thus obeying Christ's command, for the Master called to them, "Come and dine." There they found their heart's desire, bread and fish upon the fire; thus he satisfiesthe hungry every time.

"Come and dine," the Master calleth, "Come and dine" You may feast at Jesus' table all the time; He who fed the multitude, turned the water into wine, to the hungry calleth now "Come and dine."

2013 April 25 - Morning Manna

Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.

(1 Thessalonians 5:17-18)

Today's Morsel: Have you ever heard someone say that they don't have anything to be thankful for? You know, being thankful doesn't have anything to do with having things; being thankful is an attitude of the heart. Just because someone does something to you that you do not like, doesn't mean that you shouldn't be thankful. Jesus said to pray for your enemies. If He wants you to pray for your enemies, He also must want you to be thankful for them as well. Sometimes it's our enemies that cause us to see who we really are when we pray for them because we may be the enemy and not them. As the old saying goes, "It takes two to tango."

When you know who Christ is and who you are in Him, you should always be thankful. Paul told the church at Philippi, "I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" (Philippians 1:3-6). When others come to your mind, do you thank God for them? Do you thank Him for your home, your family, your current situation and circumstance, or do you complain? If our hearts aren't filled with gratitude, they will become evil.

Sing: Thanks! Thanks! I give you thanks, for all you have done. I am so blessed, my soul has founded rest, O Lord, I give you thanks.

2013 April 24 - Morning Manna

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

(1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)

 

Today's Morsel: On the outskirts of a small town, there was a big, old pecan tree just inside the cemetery fence. One day, two boys filled up a bucketful of nuts and sat down by the tree, out of sight, and began dividing the nuts.

"One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me," said one boy. Several dropped and rolled down toward the fence. Another boy came riding along the road on his bicycle. As he passed, he thought he heard voices from inside the cemetery. He slowed down to investigate. Sure enough, he heard, "One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me."
He just knew what it was. "Oh my," he shuddered, "It's Satan and the Lord dividing the souls at the cemetery." He jumped back on his bike and rode off. Just around the bend he met an old man with a cane, hobbling along. "Come here quick," said the boy, "You won't believe what I heard! Satan and the Lord are down at the cemetery dividing up the souls." The man said, "Beat it kid, can't you see it's hard for me to walk."
When the boy insisted though, the man hobbled to the cemetery. Standing by the fence they heard, "One for you, one for me. One for you, one for me..." The old man whispered, "Boy, you've been tellin' the truth. Let's see if we can see the Lord himself." Shaking with fear, they peered through the fence, yet were still unable to see anything.
The old man and the boy gripped the wrought iron bars of the fence tighter and tighter as they tried to get a glimpse of the Lord. At last they heard, "One for you, one for me." And one last "One for you, one for me. That's all. Now let's go get those nuts by the fence, and we'll be done."
... They say the old man made it back to town a full 5 minutes ahead of the boy on the bike. (A little humor to start the day)

Paul said that the dead in Christ shall rise first. He told the church at Rome, "What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection" (Romans 6:1-5). Are you dead in Christ? We must be dead to the things of this world, and alive to Christ. To be like Jesus must be our ultimate goal. We must strive every day to be more like Him at all cost. Because one day there will be a dividing of nuts. Some nuts are going into eternal life and the others are going into eternal damnation (Revelation 20:11-15). The nutty person who lived according to God's Word will belong to the Lord, and the nutty person who didn't will belong to Satan. 

 

Sing: Go ahead, drive the nails in my hand, laugh at me, where you stand. Go ahead, and say it isn't true, but the day will come when you will see.
Cause I'll rise again, aint' no power on earth can tie me down. Cause I'll rise again, death can't keep me in the ground.

2013 April 23 - Morning Manna

That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death; If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead. Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:10-14)

Today's Morsel: During the Civil War, as the Union Soldiers were closing in on the Confederate Soldiers around Appomattox, Virginia, General Grant sent President Lincoln a telegram that said, "If the thing be pressed, it will surrender." President Lincoln's reply was, "Then let the thing be pressed."

Paul said, "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." If there has ever been a time for Christians to press on, the time is now. Now is not the time to set back and wonder when will Jesus return. Now is the time to give it your all and press towards the mark. Now is the time to renew your energy and get your second wind and turn it on. The finish line is coming near. Now is not the time to say that I can't do it. Now is the time to say as Paul said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13). Now is not the time to weep and cry over hurt feelings and for being misunderstood and about wrong choices made, now is the time to press. Now is the time to link arm and arm with Jesus and say, "Let the thing be pressed."

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

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

2013 April 22 - Morning Manna

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. And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. (Deuteronomy 6:4-13)

Today's Morsel: One of the things about military training,is that it is repetitious. They don't want you to forget what you have been taught. They retrain over and over again to standard so that every soldier knows what they are to do on the battle field. Moses told the children of Israel that they were to teach their children about the things of God to ensure that they did not forget what God had said. He told them that even when they came into the land of promise and everything started going good for them, they must not forget God. Sad to say, people today forget God too soon. From health to jobs, many so soon forget God because their comfort zones are upset. When you are in your comfort zone for a long period of time, you become accustom to it; and when it's upset, you lose focus of God and start trusting in yourself and leaning unto your own understanding. You should see everything that you have as temporary and nothing permanent, because it can soon fade away. Moses warned the children of Israel don't forget God, and to make sure that they taught their children about Him, because he knew the things in life were temporal. But they forgot Him. And because they forgot Him, their enemies took them away into captivity. If you are feeling trapped, ask yourself, "Have I forgotten God?"

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

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

2013 April 20 - Morning Manna

"Now Peter and John went up together into the temple at the hour of prayer, being the ninth hour. And a certain man lame from his mother's womb was carried, whom they laid daily at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, to ask alms of them that entered into the temple; Who seeing Peter and John about to go into the temple asked an alms. And Peter, fastening his eyes upon him with John, said, Look on us. And he gave heed unto them, expecting to receive something of them. Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God: And they knew that it was he which sat for alms at the Beautiful gate of the temple: and they were filled with wonder and amazement at that which had happened unto him"(Acts 3:1-10).

Today's Morsel: You know, many people are asking why there aren't miracles today like the one we read about in Acts 3. Well, notice what was going on. Peter and John were on their way to prayer. Most people will not come to church for prayer. They want to arrive when it's convenient for them. They want to come and talk about all the things going on in the world; how bad things are going in the world, on their jobs and in their lives. They fail to realize that Jesus told us,that His house shall be called a house of prayer. "Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting" (Matthew 17:19-21). James tells us, "Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord: And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months. And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit. Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins" (James 5:13-20). The church has got to get back to the basics. And that starts with prayer.

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

2013 April 19 - Morning Manna

Then Jerubbaal, who is Gideon, and all the people that were with him, rose up early, and pitched beside the well of Harod: so that the host of the Midianites were on the north side of them, by the hill of Moreh, in the valley. And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people that are with thee are too many for me to give the Midianites into their hands, lest Israel vaunt themselves against me, saying, Mine own hand hath saved me. Now therefore go to, proclaim in the ears of the people, saying, Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart early from mount Gilead. And there returned of the people twenty and two thousand; and there remained ten thousand. And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go. So he brought down the people unto the water: and the LORD said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink. And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water. And the LORD said unto Gideon, By the three hundred men that lapped will I save you, and deliver the Midianites into thine hand: and let all the other people go every man unto his place. So the people took victuals in their hand, and their trumpets: and he sent all the rest of Israel every man unto his tent, and retained those three hundred men: and the host of Midian was beneath him in the valley. And it came to pass the same night, that the LORD said unto him, Arise, get thee down unto the host; for I have delivered it into thine hand. But if thou fear to go down, go thou with Phurah thy servant down to the host (Judges 7:1-10).

Today's Morsel: One of the most controversial topics in Christendom is water baptism. Some say that you need it to be saved, while others say that you do not. But what does the Bible say? Jesus said that you must be born again of the water and the spirit. The Bible says that on the day of Pentecost, after Peter preached, 3000 souls were baptized(Acts 2:37-42). Peter also said that baptism saves us (1 Peter 3:20-21). When Gideon had chosen the men that he thought that he could use to deliver the children of Israel from the hand of Midianites, God told him that he had too many. After the first 22,000 departed for fear, God told him to bring the other 10,000 down to the water and he would prove them there. Of that 10,000, God chose 300 that lapped like a dog to deliver Israel. Why did He choose the one's that lapped like a dog? Because it shows that they were alert and watchful. When a dog laps, he's still able to see what is going on around him. God wanted men that would be observant and could see what He was doing. The water is always the proving point. As Jesus answered Nicodemus, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:5). Read also Acts chapters 8, 9, 10, and 19. And as Paul told the church at Rome, " Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life" (Romans 6:3-4). Baptism should never be controversial for anyone who says that they know Jesus. As the Eunuch asked Philip, "I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing" (Acts 8:34-39). Jesus told His disciples,"I have given you an example." He showed them what to do. Jesus was baptized by immersion in water by John The Baptist (Matthew 3). If we say that we are His, then we must follow the pattern He left us. People who do not think they need to be baptized to be saved aren't lapping like a dog. They aren't observant to the Scripture. They are listening to man.

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

2013 April 18 - Morning Manna

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ; Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God. Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing. Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it; That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.(Ephesians 5:20-27)

 

Today's Morsel:One of the things about submission is that many people do not understand the importance of it. Some people think that to be submissive is to allow someone to rule and lord over them. But really, submission is for protection. When a wife submitts to her husband, she comes under his umbrella of protection. When a man submits to God, he comes under God's umbrella of protection and his family is protected. James tells us, "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you" (James 4:7). So if we submit our lives to God, then we don't have to worry about the devil. Peter tells us, "Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well" (1 Peter 2:13-14); "And that Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5). When we submit to God's order of authority, there is always protection and blessings that continue to flow.

 

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

2013 April 17 - Morning Manna

There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway. He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, Cornelius. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God. And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do. And when the angel which spake unto Cornelius was departed, he called two of his household servants, and a devout soldier of them that waited on him continually; And when he had declared all these things unto them, he sent them to Joppa. (Acts 10:1-8)

Today's Morsel:How much prayer and giving would you say that you have to do before you build a memorial to God. Some folks question giving to the church and the work of the Lord, because they think that they are giving to man and not the work of the Lord. Jesus told His disciples, "Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly" (Matthew 6:1-4). I'm sure that no one knew how much Cornelius had given. Maybe he didn't even know himself. But when the angel of the Lord told him ,"Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God", I think he was shocked. I know that many churches give statements of annual giving and many people are surprised by what they have given. They realized that God had provided for them, and their faith was increased. All because they had not gone without because they seem to have more than what they had started with. I am of the belief that the more you pray, the more you will give into the kingdom of God. It belongs to Him anyway. God is just looking for willing vessels that He can channel His finances through. Cornelius proved that He was faithful with it and I choose to be too.

Sing: You may be down today, but help is on the way, dark clouds may dim your sky, but He'll answer you by and by; He'll drive away all your fears, I know 'cause He's been with me down through the years, and I've never seen the righteous forsaken, nor His seed begging for bread.

2013 April 16 - Morning Manna

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, Who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? Gird up now thy loins like a man; for I will demand of thee, and answer thou me. (Job 38:1-3).

 

Today's Morsel: A few years ago, a guy wrote a song entitled, "Pants On The Ground. " Some of the lyrics were, "Pants on the ground, pants on the ground, lookin' like a fool with your pants on the ground." The song was written about people who were walking around with sagging pants revealing their backside. The Lord told Job to gird up his lions like a man. I wonder if Job's robe was starting to sag because of what he was going through (humor). You know sometimes when we are going through things we can start to mope and drag along. You see, real men and women don't reveal their backside. As a matter of fact, the Lord told Moses to make linen breeches for Aaron and his sons to put under their garments because he didn't want to see their nakedness. "And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach: And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity, and die: it shall be a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him" (Exodus 28:42-43).

Breeches were pants with legs that came from the waste to the knees. They were not worn as outer garments, but they were to be under their other garments. Once we become born again, Peter says that we become part of a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). That means that we too are priests of this holy temple, our bodies. If we are priests, then that means our nakedness must be covered. Goodbye short pants. Hello long pants. Goodbye miniskirts, hello long skirts. No more nakedness here.

 

Sing: Cover me when I'm not strong, cover me when I am going through the storm, cover me when all seems hopeless, cover me when my faith is gone, let the peace that passes all I understand Cover Me..... Cover Me...

2013 April 15 - Morning Manna

Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. (Proverbs 3:25)

Today's Morsel:I've noticed that a lot of people suffer from panic attacks. They jump at sudden noises, are afraid to talk to people, and in some cases, they are even afraid to be around people. Many of them dread the thought of even having to apply for a job because of fear. God forbid that someone with authority comes around, they become a total basket case. Some of them are terrorized at the thought of having to meet new people. Panic attacks cause torment and sleepless nights in people. People become stressed, anxious and worried about things that really do not matter. A person who suffers from these types of attacks keep their talents and abilities hidden. If those who suffer from these attacks aren't careful, they can become claustrophobic; unpleasantly or uncomfortably confined to their homes and dark rooms. Panic attacks are demonic driven because as Paul told Timothy, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7). Because Jesus gives us people, there is no need for fear. John said, "There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love" (1 John 4:18). If you want to know the answer to conquering panic attacks, become complete in Jesus. Because He is God and He is love and He casts out all fear. So when you are in Christ, you can say as we say down south for not being afraid or fearful,"Aint' Scared!"

Sing: He's bigger than all my problems, bigger than all my fears; Yes, He's bigger than any thing that I can or cannot see.

He's bigger than all my questions, bigger than all my thoughts; Yes, He's bigger than any thing that I can or cannot see.

2013 April 13 - Morning Manna

But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable.
(1 Corinthians 15:13-19)

Today's Morsel: There is a saying, "Misery loves company." In other words, those who are miserable will always look for others who are miserable to hang with. Paul said that if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. WOW! His call is not for us to not trust and serve God here and now, his call is for us to look to the future. Where we are headed. Where are we going. Jesus went to prepare a place for us. Therefore, we should be seeking to go there. We are going to a better city. A city where there will be no night; a city where Jesus is the light. But if one doesn't look forward to that city, he won't find it and he will be miserable. Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven is like a man who finds a treasure in a field. He sells all to buy the field. What he has is not as important as what he has found. I know for me, this world cannot compare to Jesus. Peter said, "Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless. And account that the longsuffering of our Lord is salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you; As also in all his epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction. Ye therefore, beloved, seeing ye know these things before, beware lest ye also, being led away with the error of the wicked, fall from your own stedfastness. But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen" (2 Peter 3:13-18). If you are filled with misery, where is your focus? Jesus has gone to prepare a place for us, we can look forward to that day with joy and expectation.

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

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

2013 April 12 - Morning Manna

And, being assembled together with them, commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence. When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel? And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 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 1:4-8)

Today's Morsel: Someone said that the person who has the most money, has the most power. I guess I could agree with that statement, since Jesus has more than anyone else. The psalmist said, "God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God"(Psalms 62:11). The different between a person filled with the Holy Ghost and has power, and a person in the world who thinks that they have power, is temperance. God's power causes one to react differently. They do not exalt themselves, but they use their power to exalt the Giver of the power, Jesus Christ. But those who think that they have power in this world, use it to exalt themselves. Jesus said that once we receive His power, we would be witnesses for Him throughout the entire world. When the Holy Ghost is within you, you never have to worry about your power running out as it will be a continual flow. If I were you, I would not seek for worldly power, I would seek for godly power. Because with godly power, your life is renewed every day.

Sing: Did-ya, Did-ya,Did-ya, Did-ya, get that power! Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, get that power! I'm talking about the Holy Ghost. It'll get all in your walk. It'll get all in your talk. It'll make you feel real good. It'll make you shout for joy. Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, get that power! Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, Did-ya, get that power!

2013 April 11 - Morning Manna

Then Philip went down to the city of Samaria, and preached Christ unto them. And the people with one accord gave heed unto those things which Philip spake, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with loud voice, came out of many that were possessed with them: and many taken with palsies, and that were lame, were healed. And there was great joy in that city. But there was a certain man, called Simon, which beforetime in the same city used sorcery, and bewitched the people of Samaria, giving out that himself was some great one: To whom they all gave heed, from the least to the greatest, saying, This man is the great power of God. And to him they had regard, because that of long time he had bewitched them with sorceries. But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. Now when the apostles which were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost: (For as yet he was fallen upon none of them: only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.) Then laid they their hands on them, and they received the Holy Ghost. (Acts 8:5-17)

Today's Morsel: I can remember as a kid I brought this black eight ball. You could ask a question, turn it over and it would give an answer. For the longest, I thought that thing was true. The devil always has tricks up his sleeve. You know, I'm starting to see more palm reading businesses springing up as well. Many people buy the paper just so they can see what their horoscope says. So many people are starting put their trust and confidence in man when they are seeking for an immediate answer, rather than God. When Phillip went down to Samaria the people had been bewitched by a fortune teller. But once Phillip began to preach and teach them about Jesus Christ, they were baptized and even the fortune teller himself was baptized. Every time I go to Africa, this chapter is always revealed. There are many witch doctors who are coming to the Lord Jesus and being baptized in His name the same as the people in Samaria. An understanding of Jesus Christ always bring about salvation. Paul told Timothy, "And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth; And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will" (2 Timothy 2:24-26). People are trapped today, but a clear understanding of the gospel will still set the captives free.

Sing: Tell me the story of Jesus, write on my heart every word, tell me the story most precious, sweetest that ever was heard; Tell how the angels, in chorus sang as they welcomed His birth, Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good tidings on earth.

2013 April 10 - Morning Manna

Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do. And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; And to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake. And be at peace among yourselves. Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men. 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 5:11-18)

Today's Morsel: "How far you go in life depends on your being tender with the young, compassionate with the aged, and sympathetic with the striving, and tolerant with the weak; because in your life you will have been all of these" said George Washington Carver. It's really about who we are as children of God. If we follow Jesus' pattern, we will see just how to treat others as well as care for them. I've come to realize that bitterness is not developed in a person when they are old, it's developed when they are young. They just carry it with them into older life. But those who make it to the top will have been tender, compassionate and sympathetic towards others.

Jesus said, "When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all the holy angels with him, then shall he sit upon the throne of his glory: And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth his sheep from the goats: And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the goats on the left. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me no drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me not in: naked, and ye clothed me not: sick, and in prison, and ye visited me not. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee? Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye did it not to me. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal" (Matthew 25:31-46).

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.

2013 April 9 - Morning Manna

And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:5-8)

Today's Morsel: Frank Tyger, editorial cartoonist, columnist and humorist for the Times of Trenton, said, "Your future depends on many things, but mostly yourself." If we would stop and consider his statement, we would see just how true it really is. Some like to blame their failures and the failure of others on someone else instead of placing the blame where it lies, with oneself. I believe that if people are taught that all choices have consequences, and they are held to a standard for their actions, people would learn self discipline and responsibility. When the ball falls into my court, it's up to me to serve or let it pass. But I need to be aware that opportunity usually only knocks once. I've learned that every day that the Lord lets me live, the older I am going to become. Therefore, I have to look ahead and prepare for the things that may come that I am unaware of. As my parents used to say, "Save something for a rainy day." I've also learned, that no one can get me to heaven. It will be totally up to me where I spend eternity. But Peter gives me instruction on how to prepare for it. He said, "And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ... Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."

Sing: There's a happy land of promise over in the Great Beyond, where the saved of earth shall soon the glory share, where the saints of God shall enter and live on for evermore, everybody will be happy over there.

Everybody, will be happy, will be happy over there. We will shout and sing God's praise, everybody will be happy over there.

2013 April 8 - Morning Manna

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)

Today's Morsel: I read an article that said Nordstrom, the department store known for their great service, had mastered the art of, "Simplifying For Success." When it comes to taking care of the customer, they only have one rule for their employees: "Use good judgment in all situations." One employee summed it up by saying, "Because we don't have many rules, we don't have to worry about breaking them. We are judged on our performance, not on our obedience to orders."

God had already made it simple for success. He just simply said that if we do what His word says, we'll have good success. How much simpler can you get.

Sing: One, two, three, Jesus loves me. One, two, Jesus loves you. Two, three, four, He loves you more; more than you've ever been loved before!

2013 April 6 - Morning Manna

LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved. (Psalms 15:1-5)

Today's Morsel: Do you ever consider what it's going to take for you to get into heaven? I find many scriptures that should leave no doubt in any of our minds. For example: Jesus told Nicodemus, "Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb, and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God" (John 3:3-5). The writer of the book of Hebrews tell us, "Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). And David asked the LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? And this reply was given, "He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved." Jesus said that if you know these things happy are ye. The reason you should be happy is because you still have time to get it right so that you don't miss the mark.

Sing: Show me Your ways, That I may walk with You. Show me Your ways, I put my hope in You.
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.

2013 April 5 - Morning Manna

As for me, I will call upon God; and the LORD shall save me. Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and he shall hear my voice. He hath delivered my soul in peace from the battle that was against me: for there were many with me. God shall hear, and afflict them, even he that abideth of old. Selah. Because they have no changes, therefore they fear not God"
(Psalms 55:16-19)

Today's Morsel: Our current administration ran their campaign on "Change." Change is not easy and some people have a hard time adjusting and accepting change. Someone said, "If you always do what you've always done, you will always get what you've always gotten." And so I guess that's why some are reluctant to change. All change isn't bad. I guess you could say it all boils down to how you handle it. If you do not see how change can benefit you, then most likely you are not one for it. But on the other hand, if you see that the change could offer you betterment, then you are more apt to accept it. For example, the way our forefathers had church was great. But now we have to learn how to have great church without compromising the doctrine. If your change compromises the doctrine of Jesus Christ and His apostles, you aren't going to have great church, you are going to have a mess. People who have been used to having church a certain way for a long period aren't going to accept change very easily. So if you are a leader in the church, you must be aware of that. David said that because people don't fear God they have no change. In other words, people today do not reverence and respect God, that's why we don't see a lot of change taking place in their lives. I believe we are dealing with the generation that scriptures says knows not God. Some people can attend church every week and still not change. And the reason is a lack of respect for God and the things of God. But I believe that if a person is touched from the altar, as Isaiah was, there will be a change. If we are planning to see Jesus and reign with Him forever, then there is going to have to be a change in each of us.

Sing:Change my heart, oh God, make it ever new, change my heart, oh God, may I be like you.

2013 April 4 - Morning Manna

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.
(1 Peter 5:6-7).

Today's Morsel: Because people seem to be living longer, many are starting to wonder about what kinds of health care and other types of care should they have in place in the event that they should live longer. Some people are starting to put insurance plans in place so that their kids and family will not have to care for them. Shouldn't a family care for family. Yet what I find today is that many parents do not want to be a bother to their children, so they make other arrangements. And many people do not want to be bothered with their aging parents or family members. Since when was this the case? The golden rule seems to be slipping from the forefront of people lives. "Do unto others, as you would have them do unto you." But what about the things that we are concerned and worry about. Do you worry and fret over your health? Do you worry and fret over unforeseen situations and circumstances? When we worry and fret, these things can become burdens to us. Peter said that the things we are concerned about, we should not allow them to become a burden to us, but that we should give them over to the Lord because He careth for us. If we would release our cares to God at the onset, they will be easier to deal with, because we will know that His perfect will will see us through. But the problem isn't that Jesus will not take care of our cares, the problem is we won't let them go. Someone said, "If Jesus says let go, then you turn loose the rope."

Sing: Give it all. Give it all. Give it all to Jesus, shattered dreams wounded hearts broken toys. Give it all. Give it all. Give it all to Jesus and He will turn your sorrow into joy.

2013 April 3 - Morning Manna

"And David was greatly distressed; for the people spake of stoning him, because the soul of all the people was grieved, every man for his sons and for his daughters: but David encouraged himself in the LORD his God" (1 Samuel 30:6).

Today's Morsel: A lady said me once, "I am always so stressed." I told her to eat more desserts. She looked at me as if to say, how is that going to help me. I told her that stressed spelt backwards is desserts. So I guess if you eat more desserts it'll help your stress. She just laughed. But really, the best remedy for stress is a balanced lifestyle. When people tell me that their job and family are causing them stress, what I've found is that they don't have things in balance and in the right order. Their priorities are out of order. Usually, God isn't first, and their family isn't second. It's job first, sporting events and a second job next, family third and God fourth. Even though people may read their Bible sometime during the day, God still isn't given the first hour or minutes of the day when they awake. Their mind immediately goes to their job and what they have to do. Jesus will allow you to work in your own strength and ability until you get Him back in his rightful place. When life is out of balance, there isn't any fun in what you are doing. You begin to see it as a drudgery instead of something that you love and what rewards you. David was distressed. But what did he do? He encouraged himself in the Lord His God. When you are excited about God and His abilities, it will relieve your stress.

Sing: I've found a new way of living, I've found a new joy divine, I have the fruit of the spirit, I'm abiding, abiding in the vine. Abiding in the vine, abiding in the vine, love, joy, health, peace; He has made them mine. I have prosperity, power and victory; abiding, abiding in the vine.

2013 April 2 - Morning Manna

"A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight" (Proverbs 11:1).

Today's Morsel:When dealing with our grandkids, my wife always like to keep things even. If she gives to one, she givesto the other 8 as well. The parents even tease her that she sits and counts how many sprinkles she puts on cupcakes to make it fair and equal! It has been reported that some butcher shops used to use unbalanced scales to cheat people on the amount of meat they were buying. Many of the scales had not been calibrated for years. So when the people bought a certain amount of meat, they thought they were getting 10 pounds but may only have been getting 7 or 8 because of the uncalibrated or unbalanced scales.

Solomon said that a false balance is abomination to the Lord. He said that God hates it when people are cheated. In other words, Solomon was saying that it turns God's stomach. Even in ministry, people need to be given the full truth even if it hurts. That's what they are coming for. I know that there will be those that only want you to tell them what they want to hear. But there are others that want the full truth. Jesus said that we should do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Therefore, equality and impartiality should be the hallmark of us all. And that should even include counting sprinkles.

Sing: Count your blessings name them one by one. Count your blessings see what God has done. Count your blessings, name them one by one, count your many blessing see what God has done.

2013 April 1 - Morning Manna

Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea; And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea; And did all eat the same spiritual meat; And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness. Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer. Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come. Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (1 Corinthians 10:1-13)

Today's Morsel:The military always uses After Action Reviews (AARs) following training exercises and wars to help them see if their doctrine is working, training is to standard, and how life saving measures can be enhanced. Soldiers and leaders sit down and go over what went well, what didn't go well, and why. Good feedback is always great for tactics.

Paul wrote to the church at Corinth that the things that happened to Israel when they came out of bondage were examples to us as to how we should live and operate as Christians on a daily basis to save lives. He told them that 23,000 people died in one day uselessly because of fornication, and many more because they murmured against God. Paul was really sharing with us an AAR so that we do not make the same mistakes. The children of Israel were a type and shadow of the born again believers. Paul said they came out of bondage, were baptized by Moses in the cloud (spiritual) and all passed through the Red Sea (water); fulfilling what Jesus had told Nicodemus that one must be born again of water and spirit. Paul also wanted us to see that you are not always saved; that once saved, you aren't always saved. Sad to say some people who say that they are Christians think that they can continue to do what they want and be okay. But Paul's After Action Review shows us otherwise. He said, "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall." Brethren, Jesus' doctrine still saves lives. We must be born again of the water and the Spirit; and we must continue on living according to His Word.

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