2013 October 31 - Morning Manna

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. (Psalms 101:2)

 

Today's Morsel:With today's social media, etiquette seems to have flown the coop. So many seem to have no respect for others when it come to cell phone usage. Wouldn't it have been nice, if when a person purchased acell phone the phone companies had issued a book on etiquette and required them to sign a contract that they would live by the rules of phone etiquette for usage before the phone would be turned on, and if a person violated it they would cancel the service? So many seem to have lost their etiquette when it come to their cell phone usage. Some sit and text in church. Texting when others are speaking or talking. People answer their phones at the table when dining and in the presence of others. The list goes on and on. Even the transportation safety board has become concerned because accidents and deaths are on the rise because many are no longer paying attention when driving due to phone usage while driving. Paul said, "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices" (2 Corinthians 2:11). The phone has a great purpose, but we must learn to use it correctly. I don't know about you, but I think I will begin to behave myself a little better with my phone and good manners in general.

Sing: Jesus on the mainline, tell Him what you want, Jesus on the mainline tell Him what you want, Jesus on the mainline tell Him what you want, call Him up and tell Him what you want.

2013 October 30 - Morning Manna

And Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. And, behold, there was a man named Zacchaeus, which was the chief among the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was; and could not for the press, because he was little of stature. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree to see him: for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house. And he made haste, and came down, and received him joyfully. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner. And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. (Luke 19:1-10)

Today's Morsel:  As I observe our world today, so many people seem to be friendless. I have had many people tell me that they are glad that I am in their life and I tell them likewise. I am so thankful for the men and woman in my life who are encouragers and steady supports to me. But many do not have that in their lives. They are despondent, lonely and hurting. Zacchaeus, by all indications, was friendless and lonely. He seemed to have no one who was his friend. But Jesus knew his hurt and his loneliness. When Jesus saw him in the tree and summoned him to come down, Zacchaeus was elated and repented of his wrong doings. You know, when you as a child of God allow your light to shine and go with you, when you come into the house of those who are doing wrong, they too will repent and begin to make things right with God. Remember, Jesus has sent us into the world to seek and to save that which is lost.

Sing: But if we are the body, why aren't His arms reaching? Why aren't His hands healing? Why aren't His words teaching? And if we are the body, why aren't His feet going? Why is His love not showing them there is a way? There is a way.

(Casting Crowns)

2013 October 29 - Morning Manna

"But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us eat, and be merry: For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found. And they began to be merry"

(Luke 15:22-24).

 

Today's Morsel: When I was a kid, it was always great at Christmas time or other holidays to see our siblings come home. I'm sure there were times that our parents didn't know if they were dead or alive, because in those days few if any had phones and most kids never wrote home. And so for a mother or father to see their sons or daughters it was a great delight. The prodigal's father too probably wondered about his son who had left home. Communications home by his son probably weren't forthcoming. And so imagine how glad the father was to look down the road and see his son coming home. But because of his son's state and condition and repentance, the father knew that his son was dead in his trespasses and sin and needed restoration. So the father began to restore him to newness of life. Friend, no matter how low you get in this world, Jesus, your Heavenly Father, will always welcome you back home. All you have to do is make the decision to come home.

Sing: I've a home prepared where the saints abide, just over in the glory land. And I long to be, by my Savior's side, just over in the glory land.

Chorus: Just over in the glory land, I'll join the happy angel band, just over in the glory land; just over, in the glory land, there with the mighty host I'll stand, just over in the glory land.

2013 October 28 - Morning Manna

"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit."
(Psalms 51:10-12).

Today's Morsel: Do you remember the day you received the Holy Ghost? Do you remember how much joy and excitement you had in your life? If you recall, it was such a great feeling that you wanted to tell everyone about it. You probably felt like the whole world was lifted off your shoulders. If you were like me, you wanted to hug on everyone. You wanted everyone so they could feel what you were feeling. For me, I saw everyone in that church as a brother or sister in Christ. It didn't matter what they looked like, smelled like, or how they talked. The Holy Ghost brought about a change in me. David knew what it was like to be anointed of the Lord. He knew that that anointing had brought great joy in his life and now the thought of losing God's presence from his life for his actions caused David to be broken, hurt, and crushed. And so he prayed, "Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit." I don't know about you, but I'm like King David, take not thy Holy Spirit from me, because it is joy unspeakable and full of glory.

Sing: Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me; Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence, O God; and take not thy Holy Spirit from me, restore unto me, the joy of thy salvation, and renew a right spirit with me.

2013 October 26 - Morning Manna

"What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where he was before? It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."  (John 6:62-63)

 

 Today's Morsel: Do you ever think about the things you've done and then wonder what would have been the outcome if you had done it a different way?  You know, there is always going to be those questions of, "What if" looming on the horizon. This is why we must consider every decision carefully, because they each have a consequence attached to them.  What if you had been one of the apostles that Jesus chose, what would be your story?  What if you had been in the upper room on the Day of Pentecost when the 120 were filled with the Holy Ghost? What if you had been present when Jesus ascending back into heaven?  What if your had been there when Jesus raise Lazarus from the grave?  What if you could give your testimony to the world of what Jesus has done for you?  Well, the door is wide open because that is why He saved you, so that you could share with others what He's done for you. Don't wait too late, because someday the "what if's" will all be over.

 

Sing:  If we never meet again, on this earth my precious friend, if to God, we have been true, and have lived above all sin, then for us, there'll be a greeting, for there's going to be a meeting, I'll see you in the rapture some sweet day.

2013 October 25 - Morning Manna

"There was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews: The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him, Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him. Jesus answered and said unto him, 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 3:1-5)

 

Today's Morsel: Do you ever get that stirring in your heart that something could be missing from your religion?  I was talking with my cousin once, and he said to me, "I'm just not growing at all in my church. It's dead and nothing is happening, so I'm going to look for a new church."  Sad to say, this is happening in  a lot of churches.  There are many reasons a person can feel this way.  If a church is absent of sound Biblical teaching, people will become disheartened.  So many churches avoid teaching about baptism in Jesus name and the infilling of the Holy Ghost.  One would think that this would be the core value of all church doctrine and teachings.  The New Testament church began in Acts with the outpouring of the Holy Ghost upon 120 believers in an upper room and another 3,000 people were baptized that same day after they heard Peter's preaching (Acts 2:1-4; 38-42).  If a person isn't filled with God's Spirit and water baptized in Jesus name by immersion, they are not born again and will struggle in their walk because they lack power.  Nicodemus really wanted to know how Jesus was doing all the miracles He was doing.  Maybe he wanted an up on the others so he could brag a little, and so he came to Jesus by night.  He wasn't looking for what he received.  When he said that no one can do these miracle that You do except God be with him, Jesus told him it was because he wasn't born again (my wording).  You can only understand the miraculous things of God by the Spirit of God. "But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned" (1 Corinthians 2:14).  If you really want to know God, how the church is supposed to work, and Spiritual gifts, become born again of the water and the Spirit.  Have you been born again?  If you have, then you should never be discouraged in Christ.

 

Sing:  I've got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible said!  I've got the Holy Ghost down in my soul, just like the Bible said! Well I've been to the water and I've been baptized in Jesus name, my soul got happy and I'm so satisfied, I wouldn't take nothing for my journey now, just like the Bible, just like the Bible, just like the Bible said.

2013 October 24 - Morning Manna

"Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword? As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter. Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord"
(Romans 8:35-39)

 

  Today's Morsel:  I think that it is about time for the saints of God to be persuaded.  I get so tired of people coming to me with excuses as to why they can't live holy and serve God.  I am totally convinced that if you have the Holy Ghost, nothing should be able to stop you from serving God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.  Paul told the Hebrews, "But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak" (Hebrews 6:9). I'm always persuaded that people can do better than they are doing if they would just make up their minds and do it. Norman Schwarzkopf, Jr. said, "We all know what to do is right, the problem is just doing it." Paul said, "For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."  I say it's time we get persuade in these last days or the devil is going to steal our crown.

 

Sing: Well, I'm going through, yes, I'm going through, I'll pay the price no matter what others do, I'll take the way with the Lord's despised few, I started out with Jesus and I'm going through.

2013 October 23 - Morning Manna

"Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."  (Philippians 4:15-19)

 

 Today's Morsel:   I believe that if people would focus more on their needs than their wants, they would probably not be in debt or suffering from stress and depression.  Often, depression and stress are brought on by indebtedness.  When you can't see the light at the end of the tunnel because debt ceiling is weighing us down, it becomes stressful.  Paul lets us know that lust is attached to our wants and not to our needs. (Romans 7:7).  He lets us know that God will supply all our need because He knows the things we have need of before we ask Him.  If you get into the habit of letting God provide for your needs, you'll not be stressed or depressed because of excessive debts.  "Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him" (Matthew 6:8).

 

Sing: There's a blessing in the house waiting for you! There's a blessing in house waiting for you! Just have faith to believe it, just have faith to receive it, God knows that you need it.  There's a blessing in the house waiting for you!

2013 October 22 - Morning Manna

It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.

(Lamentations 3:22-23).

 

 Today's Morsel:   I was relating to the church in Bible study that each new day brings about new things, and so they might as well forget about what happened yesterday because they cannot change it. I told them, "So you might as well forget every hurt, mistake, and lie, and start fresh and anew, because you can't change yesterday. Just purpose not to make the same old mistakes and lies"   But sad to say, too many people want to live in the yesterday. They want to hold on to past hurts and wrongs in hope of getting even.  But holding on to the things of yesterday will prevent you from moving forward and growing. The children of Israel were provided new manna every morning. They couldn't get manna from the day before. It was gone.  Jeremiah said that the Lord's mercies are new every morning. David said that His joy and loving kindness comes in the morning (Psalms 30:5; Psalms 92:2).  God does want us to think He runs out of things for us. The psalmist even lets us know that He daily loads us with benefits (Psalm 68:19), and He calls for us to not forget those benefits. "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's" (Psalms 103:2-5). Don't think that God can't provide for you. As He asked Abraham, "Is there anything to hard for the Lord" (Genesis 18:14).  I know not any.  And He told Jeremiah: "Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches: But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD" (Jeremiah 9:23-24). If you are in need of His mercy, it's already there for you.

 

Sing: Every day with Jesus, is sweeter than the day before. Every day with Jesus I love Him more and more. Jesus saves and He keeps me, He's the One I'm waiting for, every day with Jesus, is sweeter than the day before.

2013 October 21 - Morning Manna

And they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the country of the Gadarenes. And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand;) and were choked in the sea. (Mark 5:1-13)

 

Today's Morsel:   You know as a child, I thought that Halloween was all fun and games.  I used to think what's the purpose of scaring kids for a piece of candy.  I had an aunt that hated Halloween.  She was terrified at all the images and masks that people wore.  As I grew older, and got an understanding of this day, I realized that it isn't all fun and games as it is made out to be.  Halloween is all about witchcraft, demonic spirits, and evil.  It is amazing that our schools will teach children about demons, and require (or allow) teachers and school administrators to make bulletin boards of witches on brooms, but will ridicule them if they mention Jesus  (or prohibit them from mentioning His name) .  Even today, we hear and read of people putting drugs and objects in candy given to children during Halloween, and yet parents don't intervene.  Haunted houses, evil spirits, and death are all associated with the forces of evil that are a part of Halloween.  Paul said, "Lest Satan should get an advantage of us: for we are not ignorant of his devices" (2 Corinthians 2:11).  When Jesus came into the country of the Gadarenes, immediately there met Him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, who had his dwelling among the tombs.  This man was possessed of demons.  But when Jesus stepped on shore, his Halloween days were over!  No more grave yard.  No more torment.  No more suffering and no more pain, because Jesus ended his Halloween.  "Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble" (James 2:19).  We need to be aware of the celebrations we participate in, and what we allow our children to be a part of.  Be not deceived!

 

Sing: He set me free, yes, He set me free, He broke the bonds of prison for me, I'm glory bound my Jesus to see, glory to God, He set me free.

2013 October 19 - Morning Manna

And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. (Luke 22:31-32)

 

Today's Morsel: God not only loved the world that He gave His only begotten son, but God loved us so much that He prays for us as well. When we understand that Jesus is a mediator for us, we can understand that He is our intercessor. When Jesus was praying for His disciples in the garden, He said, "Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word" (John 17:20). I believe in Him. And by having this understand, I have nothing to worry about. WOW ! What a feeling of assurance just knowing that God prays for me and has prayed for me before I was ever born. I don't have to worry about the devil defeating me or anyone else. I guess that's why each time I quote my favorite scripture, "If God be for us, who can be against us?" I find myself saying, "Then everyone else might as well be, too." If you really want someone to pray for you, get through for you, and get an answer, try taking your request to Jesus. His prayers never fail.

Sing: I'm not sorry! I'm not sorry! I've answer the Master's call. Jesus took my heavy load, now I'm on the glory road, and I'm not sorry, I'm not sorry, I'm not sorry, any more.

2013 October 18 - Morning Manna

O LORD, rebuke me not in thy wrath: neither chasten me in thy hot displeasure. For thine arrows stick fast in me, and thy hand presseth me sore. There is no soundness in my flesh because of thine anger; neither is there any rest in my bones because of my sin. For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me. My wounds stink and are corrupt because of my foolishness. (Psalms 38:1-5)

Today's Morsel: How much of what you are going through right now in your life is of your own doing? We hear people say, "If I could just turn back the hands of time, I would do things so much differently." But would they? Or would they make the same foolish mistakes? Why does it seem that people only want God when things don't seem to be working for them. Why does it seem they only want Him when their marriages are failing and they've lost their jobs or health? It's because their wounds are starting to stink. They can smell the wrong that they've done. There is this vile odor that comes into their nostrils, that says, "You are rotting away." David said, "My wounds stink because of my foolishness." Sin in your life will cause you to stink. Solomon said, "Dead flies cause the ointment of the apothecary to send forth a stinking savour: so doth a little folly him that is in reputation for wisdom and honour"(Ecclesiastes 10:1). If you know that what you are doing is wrong, then why keep doing it causing yourself heartache and pain? If you want to get foolishness out of your life, tell God not to spare the rod. Allowing Him to purge you and cleanse you.

Sing: He set me free, yes, He set me free. He broke the bonds of prison for me, I'm glory bound my Jesus to see, glory to God, He set me free.

2013 October 17 - Morning Manna

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints
(Ephesians 6:10-18).

Today's Morsel: Warfare is nasty business. And in that business comes hurts, suffering, and loss of life. Even though we have spiritual armor to wear, there will always be some that will not take it serious; thus, either losing their life or the life of others. Some folk see church, personal development, spiritual growth and spiritual maturity as optional things, and not as a necessity. Paul uses the metaphor of a soldier's armor to stress the importance of preparation. I'm sure he had seen how those Roman soldiers marched into Jerusalem and the equipment they wore and carried for their protection. Maybe he had seen how those soldiers' equipment had protected them from some of the Jewish attacks by Barabbas and his henchmen. And now, being a soldier of Christ, he felt the need to call our attention to the armor we have and how we should wear it for our own protection. Truth, righteousness, gospel of peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God are some of the best protection a child of God can have. Because once you have proven these things, you have Christ surrounding you, and there is no foe in hell that can defeat you.

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

2013 October 16 - Morning Manna

"We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old" (Psalms 44:1).

 

  Today's Morsel: I like teaching Bible studies and I believe that every born again believer should be excited about teaching them as well. Bible studies share with others what God has done in times past for others and how it relates to us today. Every father and mother should teach a Bible study to their children at the earliest stage of their lives so the children can learn to determine truth from err when it comes to religion. Granted, there will be times that they will have to make tough choices, but once they know truth, it will make it so much easier for them in that decision making process. The psalmist said, "We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old." Their fathers told them what God had done. Paul admonished fathers, "And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). The entire book of Deuteronomy is a book of remembrance. Moses wanted the children of Israel to remember what God had done for them and to ensure that they relayed it to their children and the generations to come. Isn't it great knowing that you know the God of creation? His name is Jesus.

Sing: Tell me the story of Jesus, write on my heart every word, tell me the story so precious, more precious than ever was heard.

2013 October 15 - Morning Manna

"O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth. Say among the heathen that the LORD reigneth: the world also shall be established that it shall not be moved: he shall judge the people righteously. Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; let the sea roar, and the fulness thereof. Let the field be joyful, and all that is therein: then shall all the trees of the wood rejoice Before the LORD: for he cometh, for he cometh to judge the earth: he shall judge the world with righteousness, and the people with his truth" (Psalms 96:9-13).

 

Today's Morsel: I am afraid that so many people are going to be left behind when Jesus comes again. You know, having faith is more than just believing in God, it's believing that He is coming back again just as He said. The entire Bible is filled with prophesies of His coming and soon return. But I am afraid that people who say that they are Christians are going to get left behind. The psalmist said that the Lord is coming to judge the earth; and the guidelines He is going to use to determine who goes back with Him are righteousness and truth. Righteousness represents those who have behaved themselves according to the Word of God; and truth represents those who have kept it and obeyed it. Having knowledge of how God will judge, the apostle John wrote, "Little children, let no man deceive you: he that doeth righteousness is righteous, even as he is righteous. He that committeth sin is of the devil; for the devil sinneth from the beginning. For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil. Whosoever is born of God doth not commit sin; for his seed remaineth in him: and he cannot sin, because he is born of God. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother" (1 John 3:7-10). Remember, holiness calls for a separation from this world. Are you ready for that judgment day?

Sing: Oh my brother are you ready for the call? To crown your Savior King and Lord of all? The kingdoms of this world, shall soon before Him fall, we shall see the King when He comes.

 

We shall see the King! We shall see the King! We shall see the King when He come, He's coming in His power, we'll hail the blessed hour, we shall see the King when He comes.

2013 October 14 - Morning Manna

Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye. Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which shewed before of the coming of the Just One; of whom ye have been now the betrayers and murderers: Who have received the law by the disposition of angels, and have not kept it. When they heard these things, they were cut to the heart, and they gnashed on him with their teeth. But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God

(Acts 7:51-55).

Today's Morsel: Probably one of the greatest messages ever preached was preached by Stephen. The entire chapter 7 of Acts is his message. When he was questioned, he took them back to the beginning of the Bible and walked them through to the present moment they were at. And because they were following the pattern of their forefathers by resisting the things of God, Stephen said that they were stiff-necked. In other words, they were stubborn and not listening to nor observing what God was doing. And because of this, he told them they were resisting the Holy Ghost. So many seem to be resisting the Holy Ghost today ,following the same pattern. Jesus said, the Holy Ghost would be a comforter to you in the time of trouble and need. It would come along beside you to give you that peace that passes understand, and assure you when things aren't going your way. It would be a helper to lift you back up when you fall or when you are knocked down. It would be a light when the dark times surround you. But like the Sadducees, Pharisees and Scribes, people today reject the Holy Ghost when it comes. They are still looking for someone or something else to help them. But Jesus said, "I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins" (John 8:24). The next time someone tries to tell you to go to church, pray and read your Bible when you are going through a trial or difficult circumstance, don't resist, but obey and see what the Lord will do for you.

Sing: He brought me out of that miry clay, He set my feet on a rock to stay, he put a song in my soul today, a song of praise hallelujah.

2013 October 12 - Morning Manna

"Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly, And said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the LORD, and he heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and thou heardest my voice. For thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas; and the floods compassed me about: all thy billows and thy waves passed over me. Then I said, I am cast out of thy sight; yet I will look again toward thy holy temple. The waters compassed me about, even to the soul: the depth closed me round about, the weeds were wrapped about my head. I went down to the bottoms of the mountains; the earth with her bars was about me for ever: yet hast thou brought up my life from corruption, O LORD my God. When my soul fainted within me I remembered the LORD: and my prayer came in unto thee, into thine holy temple" (Jonah 2:1-7)

 

 Today's Morsel:  I like watching documentaries about the ocean and seas.  It's amazing what is under those waters and how deep they really are.  It has been reported that, "The Challenger Deep in the Mariana Trench is the deepest known point in earth's oceans.  In 2010 the United States Center for Coastal & Ocean Mapping measured the depth of the Challenger Deep at 10,994 meters (36,070 feet or 6.8 miles) below sea level with an estimated vertical accuracy of ± 40 meters.  If Mount Everest (29,029 feet or 5.5 miles), the highest mountain on earth, was placed at this location it would be covered by over one mile of water."  And Jonah found himself in the belly of a whale at the ocean's bottom.  Don't know if it would have been this place or not, but either way, Jonah prayed and the Lord heard him.  How deep does the waters of affliction and the rivers of depression have to be in your life before you cry out to God for deliverance?  If you feel as though you are in over your head, why not call out to God, He is as close as the mention of His name.

 

 Sing:  I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shore, very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more, but the master of the sea, heard my despairing cry, from the waters lifted me, now safe am I.

 

 Chorus: Love lifted me! Love lifted me! When nothing else could help, love lifted me. Love lifted me! Love lifted me! When nothing else could help, love lifted me. 

2013 October 11 - 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. (Acts 10:1-6)

 

 Today's Morsel:  I always like stopping and reading monuments when I'm traveling. You never know that you are going to come across. Monuments relay history or tell stories that are noteworthy.  When the angel appeared to Cornelius, he told 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."  In other words, he had a great record in heaven of the things he'd done.  The Bible speaks of another lady who had done great things.  "Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did. And it came to pass in those days, that she was sick, and died: whom when they had washed, they laid her in an upper chamber. And forasmuch as Lydda was nigh to Joppa, and the disciples had heard that Peter was there, they sent unto him two men, desiring him that he would not delay to come to them. Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them. But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and when she saw Peter, she sat up. And he gave her his hand, and lifted her up, and when he had called the saints and widows, presented her alive. And it was known throughout all Joppa; and many believed in the Lord" (Acts 9:36-42).  Even though they both had done great things, they were both dead without the spirit.  They both needed Peter, the man of God, to come from Joppa to them.  And when he came to their houses, they both received what they needed; newness of life.  They both needed to be born again. Friend, you aren't saved by your good works.  You need to be born again of the water and the Spirit to be saved.

 

Sing:  We have heard the joyful sound: Jesus saves! Jesus saves! Spread the tidings all around: Jesus saves! Jesus saves: Bear the news to every land, climb the steeps and cross the waves; onward! Tis our Lord's command; Jesus saves! Jesus saves! 

2013 October 10 - Morning Manna

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; (1 Timothy 2:1-5)

 

Today's Morsel: Do you ever try to figure out what is good and acceptable to God? Do you ever wonder if what you are doing is well please with God? Most people know when what they are doing isn't pleasing to God because they will either turn off the T.V or video, pretend that they were doing something else, or they will immediately give you an excuse. Paul told the church at Rome that he was pleading with them to present their bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God which was their reasonable service (my wording Romans 12:1-2). And he told Timothy to pray for all people because this was good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. When we are praying and interceding for peoples' lives, it's good and acceptable with God.

 

Sing: Hear my cry, oh God, attend unto my prayer. From the ends of the earth will I cry unto Thee. And when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the Rock, that is higher than I, so much higher than I.

2013 October 9 - Morning Manna

Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also with them derided him, saying, He saved others; let him save himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God. And the soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and offering him vinegar, And saying, If thou be the king of the Jews, save thyself. And a superscription also was written over him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. (Luke 23:34-38).

Today's Morsel: Every so often, when I'm in Hobby Lobby or Cracker Barrel, I like to read their signs. Some folk are very creative in their signing making. Some use scriptures. Some use famous quotes. And some use song lyrics. Most military units use signs for unit moral and espirit-de-corps. Even Pilate had a sign made to put above Jesus' Cross which read, "THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS." Many didn't want this sign to be posted. But Pilate let them know that what he had written, he wasn't changing. Are you looking for a special sign to post in your home? Why not choose the cross? It will always be a reminder of God's love for you.

Sing: I love you, I love you that’s what Calvary said, I love you, I love you, I love you written in red.

2013 October 8 - Morning Manna

For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee. (Psalms 84:10-12)

 

Today's Morsel: What would you do if you knew that you could have anything you wanted just by asking? What would you ask for? The psalmist lets us know that no good thing will the Lord withhold from them that walk upright before him. The apostle Paul tells us that eyes have not seen nor ears heard the things which God has prepared for those that love him (1 Corinthians 2:9). So the question is, are you walking uprightly, do you love him, and what do you want? Paul tells us that our love must not be with dissimulation. It must be real love. God knows if we truly love Him or not. There is no faking it with Him. If you say that you love Him, He's going to test you to see. Ask Peter. The Lord told King David that if what he had given him was not enough all he had to do was ask. You didn't need to do what you did with Bathsheba and kill her husband (my wording). All you had to do was ask. So let me encourage you, don't violate your integrity to get things, if you truly love God, then ask Him for them. For he said, "Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full" (John 16:24).

Sing: Give me oil in my lamp keep me burning, give me oil in my lamp I pray. Give me oil in my lamp, keep me burning, burning, burning, keep me burning till the break of day.

2013 October 7 - Morning Manna

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil. For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God"(John 3:16-21).

 

Today's Morsel: Every so often I will come across a house here in the city that has been condemned. The building inspectors have rendered the house no longer safe for anyone to live in unless some major repairs are done to it. Jesus told Nicodemus that God did not send Him into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved. There are many in this world who are condemning themselves by not obeying God's word. But Jesus has come to show us how to fix things before they are so badly out of shape that they feel they cannot ever be repaired again. Does it feel like your home is crumbling around you? Does it seem that nothing works anymore? Jesus said that if we do not believe on Him we are going to become condemned. Why not take Jesus' advice and come to the light so you can see your errors and your house may again become a home once again.

"Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are" (1 Corinthians 3:16-17).

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 October 5 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him. (1 Samuel 16:23)

Today's Morsel: If someone were to ask you what your favorite style of music is, what would it be? I've heard people say that they love country. Some say that they love urban. While others say that they love contemporary. And then there are those who will say they like it all. To me, there are times that I like listening and hearing all of it, too. But in my home, I listen to more country gospel than the others because their singing seems to uplift Jesus and their songs remind me of heaven and what Jesus did for me, which lifts me up. I'm not downing the others, but I just find myself uplifted and feeling better when I've listened to country gospel more than other music styles. When Saul was plagued by evil spirits, he wanted someone to play some soothing music for him. And David was chosen to do that. When David played, the evil spirits departed and Saul was refreshed. If you feel as though you are being tormented by the enemy of your soul, why not listen to some uplifting music that edifies Jesus and allow it to refresh your soul.

 

Sing: The blood that Jesus shed for me, way back on Calvary, it's the blood that gives me strength from day to day, it will never lose it power. For it reaches to the highest mountain, and it flows to the lowest valley, it's the blood that gives me my strength from day to day, it will never, lose its power.

2013 October 4 - Morning Manna

For the law having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect. For then would they not have ceased to be offered? because that the worshippers once purged should have had no more conscience of sins. (Hebrews 10:1-2)

 

Today's Morsel: I think that we all go through those periods of time that we are looking for something better. Whether it be a new home, a new car, new clothes, a new job, or even a mighty outpouring of God's Spirit, we find ourselves looking for something better. There is something about us humans that we aren't content forl on. I have heard people say, "There just has got to be something better than this." They are looking for something better. People go to school, work many jobs, travel to foreign countries, trying to find something better to satisfy their soul. The writer of Hebrews says that the law foreshadowed something good to come. To the children of Israel, it was something hard and something that they couldn't follow. But Paul let us know that the law was our schoolmaster to bring us to Christ. "Wherefore the law was our schoolmaster to bring us unto Christ, that we might be justified by faith" (Galatians 3:24). So we can see that that good thing to come that the law foreshadowed was Christ. Even the governor of the feast told the bridegroom, "You've keep the good wine until now" (John 2:10); And the writer of Hebrews said that God has made some better thing for us (Hebrews 11:40). It's called the Holy Ghost. If you are looking for something better, why not try Jesus. I promise you, you will not be disappointed.

Sing:Something beautiful! Something good! All of my confusions, Jesus understood, all I had to offer him was brokenness and strife, but he made something, beautiful, out of my life.

2013 October 3 - Morning Manna

"I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins" (John 8:24)

 

Today's Morsel: Jesus often referred to Himself as the "I Am." This saying appears many times throughout scriptures. Some have questioned what Jesus meant when He said I Am He. Was He referring to the one they were looking for too come? Or was He saying I Am God? Jesus told the people to search the scripture because it was all about Him (John 5:39). When God called Moses at the burning bush, to send him to deliver the children from Egypt, scripture says,"And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you" (Exodus 3:13-14). In his commentary, Matthew Henry states of this passage, "Formerly Moses thought himself able to deliver Israel, and set himself to the work too hastily. Now, when the fittest person on earth for it, he knows his own weakness. This was the effect of more knowledge of God and of himself. Formerly, self-confidence mingled with strong faith and great zeal, now sinful distrust of God crept in under the garb of humility; so defective are the strongest graces and the best duties of the most eminent saints. But all objections are answered in, Certainly I will be with thee. That is enough. Two names God would now be known by. A name that denotes what he is in himself, I am that I am. This explains his name Jehovah, and signifies,

1. That he is self-existent: he has his being of himself.
2. That he is eternal and unchangeable, and always the same, yesterday, today, and forever.
3. That he is incomprehensible; we cannot by searching find him out: this name checks all bold and curious inquiries concerning God.
4. That he is faithful and true to all his promises, unchangeable in his word as well as in his nature; let Israel know this, I am hath sent me unto you. I am, and there is none else besides me.
All else have their being from God, and are wholly dependent upon him. Also, here is a name that denotes what God is to his people. The Lord God of your fathers sent me unto you. Moses must revive among them the religion of their fathers, which was almost lost; and then they might expect the speed performance promises made to their fathers."

 

"Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chose: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me.  I, even I, am the LORD: and beside me there is no saviour.  I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God"  (Isaiah 43:10-12).  Do you know the Great I AM?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sing: I Am, I Am you said to me, I'm the Alpha, the Omega, the in-between; I Am, I Am you said to me, I'll be what it takes to meet your need.

2013 October 2 - Morning Manna

"In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

 

Today's Morsel: Gratitude can change your life.Thanksgiving is an expression or an act of giving thanks. It is our gratitude for something rendered to us or done for us. It's the giving of thanks. The quality or feeling of being grateful or thankful. It's that warm or deep appreciation for kindness or benefits that we receive. Meister Eckhart said, “If the only prayer you said in your whole life was,“Thank you,” that would suffice.” It’s amazing how one simple, easy, good action can change so much in a person’s life. One of the things that has had the biggest affect on my life is the realization of the power of gratitude. That of simply giving thanks. It has affected everything. It has made me a better person. I believe a more productive person. A better achiever. A better husband and father and son and brother (at least, I like to think so). A happier person. I’m not perfect, but gratitude has made me better. Can it change your life as well? I can guarantee it will if we will practice it. You might not get the exact same benefits as I have, but there’s no doubt in my mind that the simple act of gratitude on a regular basis will change anyone’s life, positively and immediately. I can't think of too many other changes that can claim to be that quick, that easy, and that profound. It has been stated that the most unthankful people on the earth are born again believers. And that ought not so to be. If anyone should know how to be thankful, it should be those who have been delivered from darkness and brought into His marvelous light. Paul lets us know that in everything we should give thanks because that is God's will for our lives. Are you thankful. Do you possess an attitude of gratitude? Give it a try, you will be glad you did and so will others!

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

2013 October 1 - Morning Manna

For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice shall be salted with salt. Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his saltness, wherewith will ye season it? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace one with another.(Mark 9:49-50)

 

Today's Morsel: I don't think a day goes by what I don't hear someone talking about what is good for you and what isn't. I hear people and commercials say that fish oil is good for you. And now someone says it isn't. I heard some say an aspirin a day is good for you, and now some say it isn't. I'm sure someone will tell the farmer pretty soon that the salt block his cows are licking is bad for them. Who decides and writes in all this mess and confusion? As Paul asked the church at Galatia, "O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth...(Galatians 3:1). I'm afraid that too many people are allowing too many who do not know God to make their decisions for them about what is good and what isn't. Paul said, "For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving"(1 Timothy 4:4). You see every meat offering for sacrifice was to be salted. "And every oblation of thy meat offering shalt thou season with salt; neither shalt thou suffer the salt of the covenant of thy God to be lacking from thy meat offering: with all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt" (Leviticus 2:13). As living sacrifices we must have salt within ourselves. We must be tasty. Salt is symbolic of soundness, sweetness, wholesomeness and acceptability. But if the salt loses its power to season what it is brought into contact with, it's useless. Salt is tasty and able to prevent meats from decaying and rotting. I heard some say that salt is bad for you. I disagree with them because Jesus said that salt is good. Whose report will you believe? The last time I checked, He was still the Chief Physician and He said that we must have salt in ourselves because it is good.

Sing:  Salt! Salt ! More salt, a little bit more salt, we all need to have in us. Salt!