2013 August 31 - Morning Manna

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace. What profit hath he that worketh in that wherein he laboureth? I have seen the travail, which God hath given to the sons of men to be exercised in it. He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end.
(Ecclesiastes 3:1-11)

 

Today's Morsel: The group Chicago wrote a song entitled, "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is, Does Anybody Really Care?" Do you know what time it is? Do you really care. So many don't seem to care because they aren't doing anything their time. They are just allowing it to waste away. So many people exit this world, having made no impact in it or in the life of others. So many people seem to be depending on the government to save them. But the Lord said, "Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD"(Ezekiel 14:14). No other person can save you. As Peter told the people on the day of Pentecost, "Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers" (Acts 2:40-42). Do you know what time it is? "For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2). Are you concerned about the time?

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 unchanging hand!

2013 August 30 - 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:Military personnel have their own language. When a military person receives orders for an overseas assignment or is required to move to another military base, they do a permanent change of station, or PCS. When they arrive overseas, they are immediately given a DEROS date, or a date to return back to the states. Some people will extend their time overseas because they like their duty station, location, or their job. While others can't want to leave and get back to their homeland and families. You know, from the time we are born, we are given a DEROS date and it will be a PCS move. Granted, some people try to get extended, but Jesus usually says no, it's time to come home. Would you say that you are ready to PCS to your home of record? Shouldn't we who say that we are Christians be excited about the move? Like the military, we all have an ETS, Expiration Time of Service. Paul said, "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." Are you ready?

Sing: When Jesus steps out on the cloud to call his children, the dead in Christ shall rise to meet Him in the air; and those that remain, will be quickly change, at the midnight cry, we'll be going home.

2013 August 29 - 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: Being filled with the Holy Ghost, speaking in another tongue, is an awesome and uplifting feeling. It's like a cup of cold water to a thirsty soul. It's refreshing. It's powerful. Some people have never spoken in another tongue as the spirit gave them the utterance, because they have never been taught the importance of receiving the baptism of Holy Ghost, God's Spirit. When Jesus told His disciples to tarry at Jerusalem until they be endued with power from on high (Luke 24:47-49), they didn't know that speaking in tongues would be their initial evidence that they were filled. They just knew that God had told them that they would be filled. And once it happened, Peter knew that this was what Jesus meant when He said, " If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)" (John 7:37-39). He knew because of the prophet Joel's prophecy (Joel 2:28-32; Acts 2:16-20). Wouldn't you want to know for sure that you have received what God promised you, rather than to walk around wondering if you have received it or not? "And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him" (Luke 11:9-13)? There was no longer any doubt in Abraham's mind, once he saw Isaac, about the promise God made him. And there won't be any doubt in your mind either that you've been filled with God's Spirit once you speak in tongues as the Spirit gives you the utterance.

Sing:Breathe on me! Breathe on me! Holy Ghost power, breathe on me. Yesterday's gone, today I'm in need, Holy Ghost power, breathe on me.

2013 August 28 - Morning Manna

Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever (Hebrews 13:8).

 

Today's Morsel: Why does it seem that the church is trying to keep pace with the world? Many are changing their church schedules, music, teachings, and even preaching trying to stay in tempo with the world. Isn't Jesus the head of the church? Isn't the Holy Ghost its power and the Word its guide? If Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever, why do we keep changing? Why are we writing new Bibles, doesn't the one I have now still serve its purpose? I was told not to add to nor take away from the Word of God. Why are we trying to adapt our Sunday Schools to the way kids are taught at secular school? Didn't Jesus tell us, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen" (Matthew 28:19-20). Shouldn't kids be exposed to God's ways? As Paul told the church at Galatia: "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh" (Galatians 3:1-3)? And as he told the church at Colossi: "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). Since Jesus doesn't change, I think I'll just remain old school, in faith, hope, love, doctrine and the Word.

Sing:There's just one, one, one, one way to God (3x), baptized in Jesus Name!

2013 August 27 - Morning Manna

Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone... For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also. (James 2:17; 26)

Today's Morsel:Back in 1989, I brought an old Datsun (which today is Nissan) pickup. The gas gauge said it had a half tank of gas, and I wasn't aware that the gauge wasn't working (like some folks faith). So when it stopped along the highway, my first reaction was that I had bought a lemon. But once two angels showed up, reviewed the situation and told me that I was out of gas, I was surprised (I don't have enough space in this manna to tell you what transpired, but angels did appear and helped me). Once I obeyed what they told me, I got gas and the truck ran well again. I could have disregarded their instruction and said, "It's not out of gas." But once I stepped out on faith and got some gas in it it ran perfect. James said faith without works is dead. If you say that you have faith but you have no works your faith is going to be dead. Sometimes you just have to do what you are told to do, God may be testing your faith. "Let brotherly love continue. (Hebrews 13:1) Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares"(Hebrews 13:2). Through my truck experience, my faith is stronger in support of angels working on our behalf.

Sing: Faith! Faith! Just a little bit of faith (2x). You don't need a whole lot, just use what you've got. Faith! Faith! Just a little bit of faith.

2013 August 26 - Morning Manna

For many deceivers are entered into the world, who confess not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist. Look to yourselves, that we lose not those things which we have wrought, but that we receive a full reward. (2 John 1:7-8)

 

Today's Morsel: There seems to be an onslaught against the things of God. Many are trying to erode the faith of Christians and the church. But hell shall not prevail. Let me encourage you today, keep examining yourself to ensure that you remain in the love of God and that you are living according to His Word. If the enemy can distract you from your ultimate goal of heaven, he wins. So each day conduct a self examination to ensure you are on track and heading in the right direction, because many false prophets and antichrists are in the world today.

Sing: I'm not sorry! I'm not sorry, I've answered the Master's call; Jesus took my heaven load, now I'm on the glory road, and I'm not sorry! I'm not sorry, anymore.

2013 August 24 - Morning Manna

"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised" (Proverbs 31:30)

 

Today's Morsel: It has been stated that cosmetic companies make billion of dollars yearly on their products, and all because people aren't satisfied with who they are. So many seem to be discontent with how they look and who they are; both men and women. The Bible says of Jesus, "For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him"(Isaiah 53:2). Sad to say, if Jesus was on the earth today, I don't think many women or men would want to be seen with Him. But what you find in Christ is that it was not about His outward beauty, it was about His inward character. You see, character is what makes a person beautiful. Granted, there is nothing wrong with being outwardly beautiful and taking care of yourself, but spending money trying to make yourself into something that God didn't intend for you to be is just going to frustrate you and depress you. Trying to change who you are shouldn't be the start of your day. Maybe this is why Paul told Timothy, "In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works" (1 Timothy 2:9-10). Always remember, the woman or man who praises and worships God in Spirit and in truth is already beautiful.

Sing: He gave me beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise, for the spirit of heaviness; that we might be trees of righteousness, the planted of the Lord, that He might be glorified.

2013 August 23 - Morning Manna

Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: (1 Corinthians 15:1-4)

 

Today's Morsel: They say that of the kids who participate in Bible quizzing, 99% of them remain in the church. Because they are required to memory scripture the Word is being hidden in their hearts and it will not return void. Sometimes I like to ponder on the things that my parents taught me when I was young. A lot of those things keep me on the right path and prevent me from making wrong decisions and making wrong actions. When we can remember right from wrong, it can also prevent hardships and unwarranted circumstances. Paul told the church at Corinth that if they kept in memory the things that he had preached to them, they would remain saved. Think about that for a moment. There is no doubt that when people stop doing the right things they were taught, they end up in trouble or backslide from the ways and things of God. God isn't willing that any should perish but that all would be saved. I believe that some folks think that they are always saved. But Paul lets us know that unless you keep in memory the Gospel, you aren't going to be saved. "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you" (Philippians 4:8-9). When you spend quality time memorizing the Word of God, you will find that it will be there when you need it and it will carry you through those tough times.

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!

Chorus:Hold to God's unchanging hand! hold to God's unchanging hand! Build your hope on things eternal, hold to God's unchanging hand.

2013 August 22 - Morning Manna

"For the hurt of the daughter of my people am I hurt; I am black; astonishment hath taken hold on me. Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered?"
(Jeremiah 8:21-22)

 

Today's Morsel:I'm apalled at the number of pharmacies I now see. Even inside of department stores and grocery stores are pharmacies. Why is there so many people sick or having such chronic pain and diseases that we need a pharmacy on every corner? You know the Greek word for witchcraft is pharmakeia, far-mak-i'-ah; medication(“pharmacy”). I often wonder how my parents, grandparents and great grandparents make it without such places. They didn't have the money for doctors, so how did they make it through? I believe more than anything, they placed their trust in the Lord and prayed to God for healing and deliverance. Has the church lost her ability? Is there no balm in Gilead? Is there no physician there, the Lord asked? Are we putting our trust more in man when it should be in the Lord? Have we chosen man's ways over the Lord's? Many are putting their credit card into a medical ATM for more pills, and the machine is giving them what they are asking for but without the healing or help. Why aren't my people healed, the Lord asked? Where have we erred? Where are the true apothecaries? Doesn't the Word tell us that by His stripes we are healed? Why aren't we calling on the elders of the church the way the Word tells us? "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" (James 5:14-15). Always remember, satan is subtil with his ways are contrary to the ways of God. Jesus ripped the curtain open so you could see what was behind the veil. Satan conceals what is behind his.

Sing: There is healing in the name of Jesus! There is healing in the name of Jesus! There is healing in the name of Jesus! To break every chain, to break every chain, to break every chain.

2013 August 21 - Morning Manna

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved"(Acts 4:12)

 

Today's Morsel: I get calls from people trying to sell me stuff. It's amazing how well they have been trained in selling the product. They will tell all the great things that their product can do for me and what is included in the warranty program and how much better their product is then someone else's. But I usually have a question for each of them. I ask them, "Tell me how does yours work?" That question usually catches them by surprise. Because now they have to back pedal if they don't own the product they are trying to sell. They either have to be honest with me or tell me a lie. The reason it is hard for some people to sell the gospel which brings us salvation is because they don't know what is in it. They've heard what is in it, but they haven't experienced it personally yet. Paul told the church at Thessalonica, "For our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance; as ye know what manner of men we were among you for your sake" (1 Thessalonians 1:5). "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek" (Romans 1:16). Do you know what came with your salvation? Have you had a personal experience?

 

Sing: There is power, in the name of Jesus! (3x) To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain.

There is healing, in the name of Jesus! (3x) To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain.

There is victory in the name of Jesus!(3x) To break every chain, break every chain, break every chain.

2013 August 20 - Morning Manna

"And it was so, when the days of their feasting were gone about, that Job sent and sanctified them, and rose up early in the morning, and offered burnt offerings according to the number of them all: for Job said, It may be that my sons have sinned, and cursed God in their hearts. Thus did Job continually... And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD. In all this Job sinned not, nor charged God foolishly"
(Job 1:5;21-22)

Today's Morsel: How much time do you use to prepare for the hard and difficult times? What I find is that, most people do no preparation for what I would call hard and difficult times. It seems that when unexpected hardship and circumstances strike us, they knock the wind out of our sail and leave us in a depressed and despondent state. Some people even begin to blame God for their hardship because though they didn't plan or prepare. Every time I go in to see my doctor, the nurse and doctor always ask me if I have an "Advance Directive." You know, that paper that says how I want things to be handled in case of a life or death situation. Do I want the heroics from the medical folks to prolong my life, or just let God have His perfect way with me. They are trying to get me to prepare in advance so that this hardship isn't placed on my family. You know, loss is something that many have a hard time dealing with, and I believe it is all because many give very little time to discussing it in advance. I believe that the more prepared we are, the easier it will be to get through the hardship and difficulty of the loss. The same is true with other unexpected situations that come our way. The more prepared we are, the better we can face them. We need to have our confidence built ahead of the storm.

Sing: Falling in love with Jesus! Falling in love with Jesus! Falling in love with Jesus, is the best thing I've ever, ever done.

In His arms, I feel connected, and in His arms, I'm never disconnected; In His arms I feel connected, there's no place I'd rather, rather be.

2013 August 19 - Morning Manna

There is a generation, O how lofty are their eyes! and their eyelids are lifted up. There is a generation, whose teeth are as swords, and their jaw teeth as knives, to devour the poor from off the earth, and the needy from among men. The horseleach hath two daughters, crying, Give, give. There are three things that are never satisfied, yea, four things say not, It is enough: The grave; and the barren womb; the earth that is not filled with water; and the fire that saith not, It is enough (Proverbs 30:13-16).

Today's Morsel:I often wonder, when is enough enough. Solomon lets us know that there are certain things that are never satisfied. Many people seem to have more than they could ever need, yet they keep wanting more and more. They have a good paying job, but they try to win millions in the lottery. They have a great home, but they bid on the tracks. Many humans are never satisfied. Divorce rate is on the rise because humans aren't satisfied. Killings are on the rise because humans aren't satisfied. Greed has taken center stage because humans aren't satisfied. There is a gang called, "Get Money." When is enough enough? Paul informs us, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows" (1 Timothy 6:6-10). Be careful that you do not fall into the trap of thinking that you do not have enough. We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.

 

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

2012 August 17 - Morning Manna

And they shall come from the cities of Judah, and from the places about Jerusalem, and from the land of Benjamin, and from the plain, and from the mountains, and from the south, bringing burnt offerings, and sacrifices, and meat offerings, and incense, and bringing sacrifices of praise, unto the house of the LORD. (Jeremiah 17:26)

Today's Morsel: There is nothing like a good worship service unto the Lord. I just love it when God saturates me and the house of God with His Spirit. Even King Solomon found that when you worship the Lord in sincerity and truth God will descend in to the meeting place. Every time we come to church, we should come bringing sacrifices of praise into the house of the Lord. Paul admonishes us to be living sacrifices ( Romans 12:1-2). Peter said that we as lively stones are built up as a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ (1 Peter 2:5). Therefore, as lively stones, we should follow the Psalmist's advice and, "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations" (Psalms 100:1-5). "By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name" (Hebrews 13:15). Living sacrifices and lively stones always bring sacrifice of praise to the house of the Lord.

 

Sing: We bring a sacrifice of praise unto the house of the Lord! We bring a sacrifice of praise unto the house of the Lord! And we offer unto You, the sacrifice of thanksgiving, and we offer unto to You, the sacrifices of praise.

2013 August 16 - Morning Manna

Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. (Hebrews 3:7-19)
 

Today's Morsel: Highway signs are to give us warning. They either tell us how fast or how slow we are authorized to drive, where we can and cannot turn, some even warn us of the danger of animals crossing, bumps, curves, and sliding rocks. These signs are to help us stay safe, even though some may see them as a hindrance The writer of Hebrews gives us a warning sign. He said that we must not harden our hearts as Israel did when God gave them warnings not to do the things that the other people were doing in the land. He said because they hardened their hearts and did not obey the warning signs given them, they were not allowed to enter into the promised land. Someone said that we gain wisdom by not doing what others do that is wrong, while at the same time seeing what they do that is right and doing it. If you miss heaven, rest assured you didn't obey a warning sign from the Word of God or the minister of God. Just because one driver speeds and gets away with it, or they make an illegal U-Turn, it does not mean that if you do the same thing you won't get caught and be punished. Heed the warnings signs from God. Eternity in hell is a long time.

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 August 15 - Morning Manna

"The LORD called thy name, A green olive tree, fair, and of goodly fruit: with the noise of a great tumult he hath kindled fire upon it, and the branches of it are broken. For the LORD of hosts, that planted thee, hath pronounced evil against thee, for the evil of the house of Israel and of the house of Judah, which they have done against themselves to provoke me to anger in offering incense unto Baal. And the LORD hath given me knowledge of it, and I know it: then thou shewedst me their doings. But I was like a lamb or an ox that is brought to the slaughter; and I knew not that they had devised devices against me, saying, Let us destroy the tree with the fruit thereof, and let us cut him off from the land of the living, that his name may be no more remembered. But, O LORD of hosts, that judgest righteously, that triest the reins and the heart, let me see thy vengeance on them: for unto thee have I revealed my cause"(Jeremiah 11:16-20)

Today's Morsel:  There is a bug called the pine beetle. His goal is to kill the pine tree. The pine tree is an evergreen tree. It has life in every season. The only way to destroy it is to uproot it or if some kind of insect such at the pine beetle comes in and destroys it. I have seen many such trees destroyed by the devilish critters. If you see a group of pine trees and one of them is brown you can see that the beetle has been there or something has killed the tree's roots. In no time they can destroy a forest. I like to refer to Satan as a beetle. He knows that in Jesus and His believers is life. And so he goes about to destroy them. Jesus said that he comes not but for to kill, steal, and to destroy (John 10:10). So if you look into a church and you see many who have life and some who are downtrodden or without life, you can easily tell that the enemy has attacked them. If something isn't done to help them, they will soon die. To protect the pine from the destruction of the beetle, the trees must be sprayed. Because the enemy desires to destroy us, we must be sprayed and covered with the blood of Jesus to our bodies from this evil critter. We must be buried in the waters of baptism. For it is only through the blood that our sins are remitted and our lives are made new. You don't have to worry about Satan destroying you if you stay under the blood.

Sing: There is power, power, wonder working power, in the Blood, of the Lamb; there is power, power, wonder working power, in the precious Blood of the Lamb.

2013 August 14 - Morning Manna

I hate vain thoughts: but thy law do I love.
(Psalms 119:113)

 

Today's Morsel: Have you ever stopped to consider just how many thoughts are running through your mind? Isn't it amazing the amount of information and data that passes through our eyes and ears that go into the brain for us to process. But the psalmist lets us know that not all of those thoughts are good ones. He said, I hate vain thoughts. If you are like me, you can be thinking on good things, reading your Bible, and out of nowhere comes a worthless or evil thought. If we aren't careful, we can begin to focus on them and forget all the good thoughts we were thinking about. Even Paul knew that our minds can sometime get side tracked. And so he tells us, "Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you" (Philippians 4:6-9). Wouldn't it be neat if all our thoughts could be good? But since they aren't, we must allow the law of the Lord to be our focus point as that is the only thing that will convert the soul. And we must keep hating worthless thoughts as they will gender to no good.

 

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

2013 August 13 - Morning Manna

Ye shall not round the corners of your heads, neither shalt thou mar the corners of thy beard. Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD (Leviticus 19:27-28).

Today's Morsel: I am amazed at the number of people who have tattoos. It seems that this trend has taken on a new meaning. When I was young, the only people you saw with tattoos were sailors or those who had been stationed overseas in the military. But today, this practice of art has become a billion dollar a year business. It not only reached men, but to women and men alike. To the young and the old. Some do it just to be a part or distinct, while others try fitting into the fad of the times not considering the hereafter. Most people, once they are saved, will tell you that when they got their tattoo, they were not in the right mind. They were living in sin or in a state of sin. Either they got it while drunk, on drugs, or they allowed peer pressure to persuade them to get one. But no person in their right mind gets a tattoo and marks their body; even if the person says that they are saved and gets a tatoo, hey aren't in their right state of mind. The Lord told Moses to write in the law, "Ye shall not make any cuttings in your flesh for the dead, nor print any marks upon you: I am the LORD." And you may say that was under the law. If you are born again, the law is now to be written upon your heart so that you do not do wrong things. As James admonishes us, "Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren" (James 1:12-16). Beloved keep yourself in the love of God, your minds stayed upon Him, and your body will remain pure.

Sing: At the Cross, at the Cross, where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away; it was there by faith I received by sight and now I am happy all the day.

2013 August 12 - Morning Manna

And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. (Acts 16:9)

Today's Morsel: I have heard many people say that they have had dreams and seen visions. Paul was a man of vision. He seemed to have vision into many things of the workings of the Lord. In Acts 16:9, Paul sees a man in Macedonia saying come over and help us. And because of this vision, Paul changed his course and headed into Macedonia. But when Paul arrived, he found himself teaching, baptizing, and teaching again(Acts 16:13-15); no men but women; and fulfilling Matthew 28:19. But it wasn't until he cast a devil out of a woman, was beaten and cast into the inner prison that he got to meet the man in the vision (Acts 16:16-40). What if Paul had not followed his vision? What if he had just assumed that it was a dream and would come to pass later? No, Paul followed his vision and Macedonia received the gospel and the church at Philippi was birthed because a man prayed that someone would come over and help them. There is a cry for help these days. Many families and people are crying out to God for someone to come and help them. So the next time you receive a vision of someone praying and calling out to you, don't stand still, but follow your vision. It just might be a door of opportunity opening to you.

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

2013 August 10 - 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: The first time I visited Korea, a street vender asked me if I wanted to buy a genuine imitation ROLEX watch. I just laughed and said to him why I would want to buy a genuine imitation? But sad to say, many folks cannot tell the difference between a real and a genuine imitation watch. Many people today are worshipping a false God, thinking that they are worshipping the one true God. But all the prophets of the Bible and the apostles of Jesus let us know who the true God is. Jeremiah said that the Lord is the true God, He is the living God, and an everlasting King. The apostle Paul informs us, "Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost"(1 Corinthians 12:3). And the apostle John tells us of Jesus, "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. Little children, keep yourselves from idols. Amen" (1 John 5:20-21). The only way you aren't going to worship a false God is if you have to know the One True God. And that One True God's name is Jesus Christ.

Sing: His name is Wonderful! His name is Wonderful! His name is Wonderful, Jesus my Lord. He is the Mighty King! Master of everything, His name is Wonderful, Jesus my Lord.

He's the Great Shepherd, The Rock of All Ages, Almighty God, is He; Bow down before Him, love and adore Him, His name is Wonderful, Jesus my Lord.

2013 August 9 - 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: You know, there are those days that just begin as an ordinary days and then disaster happens, bad news comes, or things we did not expect come our way apparently just out of nowhere. 9/11 started with an ordinary day, and then America and the world found themselves in shock as those planes crashed into the World Trade Center and The Pentagon. I'm sure the people in Joplin, Missouri, Moore, Oklahoma, and New Orleans, Louisiana all began their day as just be ordinary, but then disaster hit. James tells us that we don't know what a day may bring forth. "Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that" (James 4:13-15). To many, Pentecost was just another Jewish feast day or holiday that they were to keep under the law. I'm sure it began just as other ordinary feast days. Little did they know that this day would be the day that God would begin to build His New Testament Church. This day would be the day that many prophecies would be fulfilled. This day would be no ordinary feast day, this day would be 3,120 peoples' new birthday. And every day since, someone starts their day as ordinary but soon find themselves being born again. Friend, once you experience Pentecost, there will be no more ordinary days for you!

 

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

2013 August 8 - Morning Manna

Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
(2 Timothy 4:14-18).

 

Today's Morsel: There are those people that you know you can depend on, and then there are those who you cannot. Paul found this to be true in his ministry, but he said that Jesus stood with him. I believe that we should all understand this. How many times have we heard that God will not leave us nor forsake us? In this life, there are going to be those that will withstand you and will try to do you harm because they aren't kingdom minded, and there will be those who will stand with you. When people are kingdom minded, they will rejoice with you, help you, stand with you, and weep with you. But if they aren't, evil will proceed them the same as Alexander the coppersmith did to Paul; or depart from you as Demas did. But David's psalms show us that God won't leave us, nor forsake us. If the things written afore were for our example and learning, then we need to heed the advice given and be prepared for those who depart and for those who stand.

Sing: He leadeth me! He leadeth me! By His own hand He leadeth me; His faithful follower, I will be, for by His hand He leadeth me.

2013 August 7 - Morning Manna

"I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry"(2 Timothy 4:1-5)

 

Today's Morsel: I was recently asked by someone what I thought about same sex marriage. I asked them what they meant by same sex marriage? They said, y"Yu know, two women marrying each other or two men marrying each other." So I asked them what their your definition of marriage was? And they told me it was a man and a woman joined together is holy matrimony. I said to them, "So you believe that marriage is between one man and one woman?" And they agreed. I asked them what difference would it make what I think? If you believe that marriage is between one man and one woman, then you need to hold to that view or conviction and not allow anyone to persuade you otherwise, no matter what other people do, say or believe. I told them that just because I don't agree with someone doesn't mean that I don't love them. And just because I see things differently then others, doesn't mean that I don't care for them and am not willing to help them. I told them that the last time I checked, the Gospel of Jesus Christ was for the whole world. Then I asked them what the purpose of marriage is? And they said they thought it is to be united with the person you love. I said that is partially true. But according to the Bible, the real purpose of marriage is to prevent fornication and for reproduction, as fornication is a sin and causes spiritual death. I also told them that the second purpose for marriage was for reproduction. The Bible said that God made them male and female and told them to be fruitful and multiply (reproduce) after their kind (Genesis 1:27-28). I told them that if you really want to know what I think, I think that God's love and mercy can reach to everyone and allow each of us to see our errors when we commit them. And so until He does, I will follow the apostle Paul's advice to Timothy and continue to preach the Word.

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

2013 August 6 - Morning Manna

"For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water." (Jeremiah 2:13)

 

Today's Morsel: Everything seems to be a substitute these days. We have substitute teachers., substitute pastors, and substitute employees. We even use substitute sugar, drinks, and milk in trying to meet our needs and the needs of others. We have gotten to the point that we'll take anything if we don't have the real thing because we don't have patience to wait. It seems that the people of the world don't want the real thing anymore. Many of them are being served a fake Jesus and they don't even know it because they have become so accustom to substitutes. The Lord told Jeremiah, "For my people have committed two evils; they have forsaken me the fountain of living waters, and hewed them out cisterns, broken cisterns, that can hold no water." Friend, when you go away from Jesus for something else that you think will satisfy your thirsty soul, you are soon going to find out that it doesn't meet your need. Only Jesus can satisfy your soul. He is the real deal, there is no substitute for Him.

Sing: For only Jesus can satisfy your soul, and only He can change your life and make it whole; He'll give you peace you never knew, sweet love and joy and heaven, too, for only Jesus can satisfy your soul!

2013 August 5 - Morning Manna

After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus? And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir. And, behold, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir. And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be. And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness. And he said unto him, I am the LORD that brought thee out of Ur of the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it. And he said, Lord GOD, whereby shall I know that I shall inherit it? And he said unto him, Take me an heifer of three years old, and a she goat of three years old, and a ram of three years old, and a turtledove, and a young pigeon.
(Genesis 15:1-9)

Today's Morsel: We may often hear people use the phrase, "Holy Cow!" I used to wonder what made a cow holy! In some countries, the cow is considered holy. Maybe when Abraham was told to offer a heifer to God, and Samuel was told to take a heifer when he went to anoint David to be king of Israel, because these cows were used as sacrifices to God, they were considered to be holy cows. But today, I thank God that I can use the cow for a good old juicy hamburger, and present myself as a living sacrifice to Him. I am the only sacrifice that God desires.

Sing: Lord prepare me, to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true, and with thanksgiving, I'll be a living, sanctuary, for You.

2013 August 3 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel: Do you ever wonder why so many books have been written about prayer? If you were to add them up, how many prayers do you think you have said or presented to God? What has been the result of your prayers? My wife keeps journals of prayer requests and places a star next to requests when they are answered. I can remember in Germany, when she first started doing this it was amazing at the end of the year the number of stars that were in her book. Sometimes, because we don't see the results we want immediately, we may think that God isn't answering us. But Jesus would have never told us to ask if He wasn't going to answer. I think the key element that is often missing from our prayers is, "Thou will be done!" When Jesus taught His disciples to pray, He told them once you acknowledge God, pray that His kingdom come and that His will would be done on earth as it is in heaven. If you will notice, James said that if a person is afflicted, let him pray. Afflictions are a condition of great physical or mental distress, or something that causes these. Notice, the it is placed upon each of us to pray for our own afflictions and to keep ourselves happy. But if we are sick, we should call for the elders of the church to anoint and pray for us. I believe that if we get into the habit of praying before the storm, we'll get through the storm so much easier when it comes.

Sing: Pass me not, O' gentle Savior, hear my humble cry, while on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by.

I'm calling you Savior, Savior, hear my humble cry, while on others Thou art calling, do not pass me by.

2013 August 2 - Morning Manna

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5:14-16)

 

Today's Morsel: Lighthouses not only serve as directionals, they also gives warnings of danger. Whether in the middle of an airport or along the coast line, lights from a houselight can be seen for miles and miles away. When Jesus calls us lights, He's saying that we have two purposes: To give direction and to warn. We are to direct those who may not know the ways of Christ, and also give warning to those who may be venturing off course into danger. This is why our lights must be shining bright. Our light must be burning. If you will study and apply God's Word to your life, not only will you be burning bright when Jesus comes, but you will be able direct others to safety. "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 5:19-20).

Sing: This little light of mine, I'm going let it shine; This little light of mine, I'm going let it shine; This little light of mine, I'm going let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine!

2013 August 1 - Morning Manna

He stretcheth out the north over the empty place, and hangeth the earth upon nothing. (Job 26:7)

 

Today's Morsel: How much do you think the earth weighs? Think about it for a moment. We know that dirt, and sand are both heavy. So taking that into consideration, and then all the people, rocks, cars, boats, trains, and things, what do you think the earth weighs? Job said that it has nothing holding it up. He said God hangs it upon nothing. So shouldn't it be falling? And if it's falling, what will it hit? Job said it's hanging in an empty place. The Lord asked Abraham, "Is anything to hard for the Lord" (Genesis 18:14)? That includes our problems and situations. It's not too hard for God to handle the situations in our life. When Job found himself face to face before God, God asked him, "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. Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth? declare, if thou hast understanding. Who hath laid the measures thereof, if thou knowest? or who hath stretched the line upon it? Whereupon are the foundations thereof fastened? or who laid the corner stone thereof; When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy" (Job 38:1-7)? When we understand the awesomeness of God and who He is, we can see how He does such awesome and wonderful things.

 

Sing: God is great and greatly to be praise, God is great in my soul. God is great and greatly to be praised, God is great in my soul.