2013 November 30 - Morning Manna

"Then verily the first covenant had also ordinances of divine service, and a worldly sanctuary. For there was a tabernacle made; the first, wherein was the candlestick, and the table, and the shewbread; which is called the sanctuary. And after the second veil, the tabernacle which is called the Holiest of all; Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant; And over it the cherubims of glory shadowing the mercyseat; of which we cannot now speak particularly. Now when these things were thus ordained, the priests went always into the first tabernacle, accomplishing the service of God. But into the second went the high priest alone once every year, not without blood, which he offered for himself, and for the errors of the people: The Holy Ghost this signifying, that the way into the holiest of all was not yet made manifest, while as the first tabernacle was yet standing: Which was a figure for the time then present, in which were offered both gifts and sacrifices, that could not make him that did the service perfect, as pertaining to the conscience"(Hebrews 9:1-9)

Today's Morsel:I like checking company mottos and slogans. As I was checking the other day, I noticed that J.C. Penny's slogan is, "It's all inside." They want you to know that everything you want they have, but you've got to come inside to see it. Great slogan. When we turn to the church, the writer of Hebrews, lays out for us the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, by saying, it's all inside, but you have to come inside to see it. The only ones who were allowed inside of the sanctuary in the Tabernacle in the Wilderness was the priest, and into the Holiest of All, was the high priest once a year. But when Jesus was pierced in His side on the cross, He rolled back the curtain so that all could come all the way inside and unto the mercy seat. The reason many don't like the church is they have come inside the sanctuary, but they do not want to come all they way in. They have stopped short of the mercy seat. They have stopped short of the Ark of the Covenant. They have stopped short of being washed by the Word. You can be one of those who complains about the church, or you can come all the way inside and see for yourself what the Lord has inside for you.

Sing: I can go, into the Holy of Holies, I can kneel, and make my petitions known. I can go, into the Holy of Holies, for although I'm just a common man, because of God's redemption plan, I can boldly approach the throne.

2013 November 29 - Morning Manna

We then, as workers together with him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain. (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 6:1-2)

Today's Morsel: I can remember during the first Gulf War when the allied force evicted the Iraq forces from Kuwait. The Kuwaiti people were so greatful that they entered into the streets in elation and jubilation because they saw it as a day of salvation and deliverance. Like the apostles and believers,who were in the upper room on the Day of Pentecost, when they were filled with the Holy Ghost they realized that this was a new day for them. It was a day of liberation and salvation. Liberation from self, and salvation unto God. The Apostle Paul told the church at Corinth that today is the day of salvation. Every day that the Lord tarries is a day for someone to be saved. Maybe you are bound to some addiction or stronghold that you just can't seem to shake. Well, today is the day of salvation. You don't have to stay in the hog pen of life. You don't have to carry the guilt and burden of the past. Why not get up and come to Jesus. He has promised you that He will in no wise cast you out. You can be saved today.

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

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

2013 November 28 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them,  Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. (Luke 17:11-19)

 

Today's Morsel:  Wouldn't it be neat if gratitude would return to every life? Gratitude is a feeling of being thankful to somebody for doing something for you. It's showing appreciation and gratefulness at all cost. But today, there seems to be a loss of gratitude in the land.  Paul said that in the last days, man would be unthankful (2 Timothy 3:2).  We must not allow this last day spirit to invade the church nor our lives. There seems to be this cry of, " I want" rather than "I need." We must not allow a spirit of greed to invade us, we must be thankful.  You may say, "I don't have anything to be thankful for."  I say, "Yes you do."  Read Psalm 136, and notice that at the end of all 26 verses it says, "Because his mercy endureth forever." Therefore, you need to be thankful because you are not consumed because God's mercies are new for you every morning (Lamentations 3:22).  Paul informs us that in everything we are to give thanks because this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (1 Thessalonians 5:18). You may ask, How can I give thanks for everything when they hurt me, said or did bad things to me?  I believe this scripture means that we should never lose our attitude of gratitude, no matter what the situation or circumstance may be. When the 10 lepers were cleansed, only one returned to give thanks. There is always some goodness, completeness, and wholeness that takes place when gratitude returns.  When you give God thanks, He'll make you whole.

 

Sing: Thank you Lord for saving my soul. Thank you Lord for making me whole. Thank you Lord, for giving to me, Thy great salvation so rich and free.

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

2013 November 27 - Morning Manna

But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.   (1 Corinthians 12:31)

 

Today Morsel: I'm sure you've heard the story of the little boy who kept interrupting his dad trying to get his dad to play with him.  However, the dad had stuff he needed to get done.  And so he took a picture and tore it into piece and told his son, when you put this together come back, then I will have time for you. Well to the father's surprise the son was soon done and back in no time.  The father asked him how he had put it together so fast. The boy said that there was a picture of Jesus on the other side and so when I put it together, the other picture was together also.  If someone were to tell you that the job you were doing could be done easier would you let them show you?  Sometimes, when we have done things one way for so long, we don't want to change. Like the Corinth church, they were set in their ways. But Paul wanted them to know that there was a more excellent way than being caught up into spiritual gifts. And he said that that more excellent way was love.  Because Charity suffereth long and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things. Charity never faileth (1 Corinthians 13:4-8). When we are controlled by the laws of love, that more excellent way, God will always be first and our neighbor second.

 

Sing: I want to live the way that He wants me to live. I want to give until there's just no more to give, I want to love, love till there's just no more love, I could never, never out love the Lord.

2013 November 26 - Morning Manna

And they shall take of the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it... For I will pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both man and beast; and against all the gods of Egypt I will execute judgment: I am the LORD. And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and the plague shall not be upon you to destroy you, when I smite the land of Egypt.
(Exodus 12:7;12-13)

Today's Morsel:Here is America, The Affordable Health Care Act seems to have left people in a great state of confusion. Many seem to be concerned now about their health insurance and health care. The Children of Israel were also concerned about their care when God told Moses that He would smite all the first born in Egypt and bring them out. But you see, God is like American Family Insurance, All your protection is under one roof! The Lord told Moses, "When I see the blood, I will pass over you." The blood was their insurance policy. Paul said the whole family in heaven and earth is named after the name of Jesus. So if you are in the family of God, you don't have to worry about your policy being cancelled, your coverage doesn't change. You are well covered. When You obey Acts 2:38, you join the family of God. And I promise you as long as you live your life according to the word of God, you'll be in good hands just like, All State.

Sing: When I see the blood! When I see the blood! When I see the blood! I will pass, I will pass over you.

2013 November 25 - Morning Manna

My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth. (Psalms 57:7-11)

Today's Morsel:Commitment and sustainability are two things that every Christian must have in their lives. We have to be committed to make it to the other side. In order for us to do that, we must intake enough spiritual Word to sustain us during times of spiritual drought. The angel told Elijah that he must eat and drink because his journey was too great for him ( 1 Kings 19:1-7). We need to have manna from heaven and the living water from that spiritual well, so that we do not grow weary in well doing and what God is asking of us to do. The psalmist said his heart was fixed and that he would sing and give praise. He had made up his mind to stay committed. He knew that in order to do that, he had to wake up early and begin his day with singing and giving praise to God. I promise you, if you follow the psalmist's example, you too will see how easy it is to serve God and to continue on in adversity. Remember, God has given you everything you need to endure unto the end, but it is up to each of us to use it.

Sing: Be exalted O' God, among the heaven, let Thy glory be over all the earth. Be exalted O' God, among the heaven, and let Thy Glory; let Thy Glory, let Thy Glory be over all the earth.

2013 November 23 - Morning Manna

"I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD"(Psalms 122:1).

Today's Morsel: One of the goals that we established for our church this year,was that everyone would bring at least one guest to church. It's going to be great at the end of the year to see if we have met our that goal. One of the things I learned, as soon as I was saved, was to share my faith with others and to invite them to church. Even Phillip went after Nathanael and told him to come and see, when he asked if any good thing can come out of Nazareth. And Andrew went after his brother Peter. We too must go after the lost. If you don't show enthusiasm about attending church, your children and others will never see the importance for the house of God. But if you get yours and their clothes ready the night before church, allow them to see you praying and worshipping in the front of the church, they will see the importance of church. And as they grow, they will be glad to go to the house of God with you.

Sing: I was glad when they said unto me; I was glad when they said unto me; I was glad when they said unto me; come let us go to the house of the Lord.

2013 November 22 - Morning Manna

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah. There is a river, the streams whereof shall make glad the city of God, the holy place of the tabernacles of the most High. God is in the midst of her; she shall not be moved: God shall help her, and that right early. The heathen raged, the kingdoms were moved: he uttered his voice, the earth melted. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah. Come, behold the works of the LORD, what desolations he hath made in the earth. He maketh wars to cease unto the end of the earth; he breaketh the bow, and cutteth the spear in sunder; he burneth the chariot in the fire. Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth. The LORD of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge. Selah.
(Psalms 46:1-11)

Today's Morsel:How much trust and confidence do you have in God? Do you believe that He can do anything? Do you believe that He will come through for you? Do you believe that He will show up at the appropriate time and help you? Do you have faith and confidence as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to saythat yur God will deliver you, and if not, you still will not bow? The faith and confidence in a child of God must not be of arrogance, but of the belief that God will be there when you need Him. It doesn't mean that He's going to change your situation, it means that He will comfort you through your trial and circumstance. You see, your faith requires you to be still and to know that He is God. And to be still is to just let go and allow God to take care of it for you. To me, I don't worry how much the heathen rage and the wicked think they have the upper hand, for I know that God will still be exalted in the earth when it is all said and done.

Sing: He is exalted! He is exalted! He is exalted on high. Creation shall praise Him, the saints shall adore Him, for He is exalted on high.

2013 November 21 - 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"(Ephesians 6:10-13)

Today's Morsel: The Encarta Dictionary, English North America, defines evil as: Profoundly immoral or wrong. To deliberately cause great harm, pain, or upset; to be connected with the devil or other powerful, destructive forces. Paul said that we should 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. The call is for the child of God to become battle ready. We can easily see that this prophetic truth, which was spoke by Paul, is for us today. For precept must be upon percept, line upon line. Paul seems to have looked through that dark glass and he saw what was ahead. And so he said, let me warn the child of God for the battle that is to come. He cautioned us to get on our armor. He told Timothy that in the last days perils time would come. The times now are dangerous. I'm sure they were dangerous in Paul's day, and they continue to be as much so, if not more so, today. So let me encourage you, now is not the time to retreat back into the world for fear, nor is it time to lay your armor aside. But now is the time for the children of God to be fully persuaded that what God said that He will do, He will do. Now is the time for you to suit up with truth, righteousness, faith, and learn the Word of God. Because it will be by the Word of God that will determine if we live or die. When you have done all you can do to stand, stand therefore and see the salvation of God.

Sing: Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He; Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He. Lift up the banner, let the anthem ring, praises to our King, Great and mighty is the Lord our God, great and mighty is He.

2013 November 20 - Morning Manna

"As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday... Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God" (Psalms 42:1-4;11)

Today's Morsel: There seems to be this thing called depression that all of a sudden has come out of nowhere and has become so prevalent. Where did this evil come from that is out to destroy the lives of so many? Where did this beast come from that is now causing over 321 million people worldwide to suffer? It's nothing new, rather it is something old. It's been around for a long time and something that the child of God must learn to overcome. Even the psalmist found himself questioning his own soul and trying to find out why he was in a low state? He said, "Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?" Why is there all this nervousness, worry, concern, apprehension and fretfulness going on here, he said. It was as if he was asking himself, "Don't you trust in God?" He was concerned that something inside of him wasn't clicking on all cylinders. He said it's like and 8-cylinder car that keeps misfiring. It's running sluggish and has no energy or pep. And so he called for his soul to wake up. You see the psalmist knew that he could only prosper as his soul prospered and be in good health (3John 1:2). And so he began to talk to himself to encourage himself. The Lord told Joshua, "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest" (Joshua 1:9). David found that he had to encourage himself in the Lord when he was distressed. The way you beat distress is self-motivation, self-discipline, and self-encouragement, and self-exaltation. For when you do these things, you will see that God is as close as the mention of His name.

Sing: Souls in danger, look above, Jesus completely saves; He will lift you by His love out of the angry waves. He's the Master of the sea, billow His will obey; He's your Saviour wants to be - be saved today.

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 November 19 - Morning Manna

And even things without life giving sound, whether pipe or harp, except they give a distinction in the sounds, how shall it be known what is piped or harped? For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (1 Corinthians 14:7-8)

Today's Morsel: Isn't it amazing how God has made all of us different. We all have our own eye sight, finger prints, DNA, and likes and dislikes. Even a set of identical twin have their own DNA, finger prints, and eye sight. Amazing!

The psalmist said: "I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well" (Psalms 139:14). Distinction, a difference. God wants His people to be different. From the onset in scripture, when God called out His people from Egypt, which is a type and shadow of the world, He began to place a difference between His people and the people of the world. Their clothing was to be different: A woman was not to wear that which pertaineth to a man, nor a man wear that which pertaineth to a woman. Unisex had nothing to do with it. Nor did the change of times, dates, and cultures. A woman's attire was a woman's attire and a man's attire was a man's attire (Deuteronomy 22:5). A woman's and man's hair lengths were to be different (1 Corinthians 11:14-15). And the list goes on and on. But Paul told the church at Galatia, "But there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ" (Galatians 1:7). In other words, there are going to be those that try to change it. Peter said that there is this distinction about you, that once you are born again you should be set apart from those who are not (1 Peter 2:9). No matter how much the world changes around us, we who are born again and carriers of God's Word must blow the trumpet of warning, and it must be a distinct sound. "Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed" (1 Corinthians 15:51-52).

Sing: They rush on the city, They run on the wall. Great is the army, That carries out His Word.They rush on the city, They run on the wall. Great is the army, That carries out His Word. The Lord utters His voice Before His army. The Lord utters His voice Before His army.

Chorus: Blow the trumpet in Zion, Zion. Sound the alarm on My holy mountain. Blow the trumpet in Zion, Zion, Sound the alarm.

2013 November 18 - Morning Manna

Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. (John 17:17)

Today's Morsel:I can remember as a young boy that a person's word was their bond. I can remember once my Dad sent me to the store to get something for him. He told me what he wanted, and to just tell the store owner that he would pay him. I got the items my dad wanted, relayed the message my Dad had said to teh owner, and walked out with the items in-hand. After my Dad's death, many people were talking about the kind of man he was. My dad had no education, he couldn't even write his name; but he had a relationship with the Lord, and he was a man who did what he said that he would do. Jesus prayed that his disciples would be sanctified through truth. Paul informed the church at Ephesus, "That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ. In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory" (Ephesians 1:12-14). Because Jesus was the Word made flesh (John 1:14), and the truth (John 14:6), the only way a person can be made holy is by becoming obedient to that Word.

Sing: Holy, Holy, Holy; Holy, Holy, Holy; Holy is the Lord God Almighty. And worthy to receive glory, worthy to receive honor, worthy to receive all our praise today.

2013 November 16 - Morning Manna

Who is wise, and he shall understand these things? prudent, and he shall know them? for the ways of the LORD are right, and the just shall walk in them: but the transgressors shall fall therein. (Hosea 14:9)

Today's Morsel: There for a while, each Sunday when we would be coming home from church we would always get behind this truck with a bumper sticker that said, "You can't fix stupid." Meaning you may be wasting your time trying to correct someone that isn't getting it, or who doesn't want to know what you are trying to show them. Solomon said, "Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding" (Proverbs 9:9-10). Shouldn't a person who says that they are born again and are a Christian have wisdom, knowledge, and understanding? Shouldn't they know how to act, live, dress, and conduct themselves? Shouldn't they know that all the ways of the Lord are right? I don't know about you, but since I became a doer of the Word, my life has been so much simpler. If you want to be perfect, then you have to be willing to receive instruction and walk in the right path. "Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls..." (Jeremiah 6:16).

Sing: Unto Thee O' Lord do I lift up my soul; Unto Thee O' Lord do I lift up my soul; O' my God, I trust in Thee, let me not be ashamed, let not my enemies triumph over me.

Show me Thy way, Lord teach me Thy path; Show me Thy way, Lord teach me Thy path; O' my God, I trust in Thee, let me not be ashamed, let not my enemies triumph over me.

2013 November 15 - 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:I often find myself studying this passage of scripture studying over and over again. I think God wants me to know that as a soldier, I cannot take things too lightly. He wants me to know that I need to be prepared because the enemy of my soul walketh about seeking who he may devour. And so I find myself proving and ensuring that I have all my armor. I know that just missing one piece or not having an understanding of how to use a piece of it can get me killed. As my instructors used to tell me in the Army, "Minor details will make you or break you." In other words, it's the small things which are overlooked that can get you killed. So how is your breast plate of righteousness today? Or should I ask, how is your character? What about your shield of faith? Or should I say, your commitment? What about your sword of the Spirit? Or should I say, your obedience to God's Word? Do you know where your Bible is? Some people have downloaded their Bible to their social media networkings, but I often wonder how much reading and studying is actually done from them. To endure hardness as a good soldier is not only being able to endure the elements, it's being able to know and also how to use the equipment issued to you for warfare.

Sing: I'm 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 November 14 - Morning Manna

And Isaac answered and said unto Esau, Behold, I have made him thy lord, and all his brethren have I given to him for servants; and with corn and wine have I sustained him: and what shall I do now unto thee, my son? And Esau said unto his father, Hast thou but one blessing, my father? bless me, even me also, O my father. And Esau lifted up his voice, and wept. And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above; And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck. (Genesis 27:37-40)

Today's Morsel: So many people are walking around carrying weights because they cannot let go of the past or hurts that others have caused them. Even people in the church who should know how to forgive and move on seem to hold on to self-justification. They always want to see themselves as right and others as wrong. And because they want to be justified and always right, they carry this heavy heart. Solomon said that heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop (Proverbs 12:25). When one has a heavy heart, he has no joy or enthusiasm about who he is, or what he is doing. Esau was crushed because of Jacob's, his brother, doings. He even wanted to kill him. So his father Isaac told him, "Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above; And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck." In other words, when you get over your hurt, you will remove this yoke from you, but if not, it's going to weigh you down and destroy you (my wording). Are you carrying around hurts of the past. Well, let me encourage you to get dominion over it so that it does not cause you hurt and harm.

Sing: Cast all your cares, cast all your cares, cast all your cares upon Jesus; for He is truly able, so just leave them there, so cast all your cares upon Him.

2013 November 13 - Morning Manna

And Saul, yet breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the disciples of the Lord, went unto the high priest, And desired of him letters to Damascus to the synagogues, that if he found any of this way, whether they were men or women, he might bring them bound unto Jerusalem. And as he journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks. And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do. And the men which journeyed with him stood speechless, hearing a voice, but seeing no man. And Saul arose from the earth; and when his eyes were opened, he saw no man: but they led him by the hand, and brought him into Damascus. And he was three days without sight, and neither did eat nor drink. And there was a certain disciple at Damascus, named Ananias; and to him said the Lord in a vision, Ananias. And he said, Behold, I am here, Lord. And the Lord said unto him, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth, And hath seen in a vision a man named Ananias coming in, and putting his hand on him, that he might receive his sight. Then Ananias answered, Lord, I have heard by many of this man, how much evil he hath done to thy saints at Jerusalem: And here he hath authority from the chief priests to bind all that call on thy name. But the Lord said unto him, Go thy way: for he is a chosen vessel unto me, to bear my name before the Gentiles, and kings, and the children of Israel: For I will shew him how great things he must suffer for my name's sake. And Ananias went his way, and entered into the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized. And when he had received meat, he was strengthened. Then was Saul certain days with the disciples which were at Damascus. And straightway he preached Christ in the synagogues, that he is the Son of God. (Acts 9:1-20)

Today's Morsel:  Wouldn't it be neat if we could see what God sees in people? I've come to realize that what I see may not be what God sees. Abraham saw himself and Sarah as being too old to have children; God saw a man and a woman who could birth a nation. Moses saw only a stick in his hands; God saw a deliverance rod and a staff of comfort. The disciples saw only two fish and five loaves; God saw a smorgasbord. The servants only saw six pots with water in them; God saw new wine. Ananias saw Paul as a murderer and hindrance to the church; God saw an apostle to the Gentiles, a church planter, and a minister of the gospel. Let me encourage you, if you walk by faith, in most cases you'll be able to see what God sees in yourself and others. Remember, His thoughts and ways are so much higher than ours.

Sing: He was there all the time, He was there all the time; waiting patiently in line, He was there all the time.

2013 November 12 - 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: In this February 1962, 51 ago, astronaut John Glenn climbed into the Friendship 7 space capsule atop an Atlas rocket at Cape Canaveral. Not only did John Glenn make history, but a little city in Australia made history as well. That night, both John Glenn and the little town of Perth, Australia got put on the international map. The Australian government agreed to NASA's request to leave airport lights on in Perth and Queensland to see if they were visible from space. Bill King, a journalist at The West Australian, was looking for a new angle. After a pre-flight press conference, he asked Colonel Gordon Cooper, a US astronaut based at Muchea tracking station, if Lt-Col Glenn would see the lights if people left them on. Colonel Cooper didn't know. Bill King took the idea to Perth, Lord Mayor, Sir Henry "Harry" Howard, who branded it a waste of public money. But Premier David Brand approved and left street lights on until dawn and the people of Perth responded with enthusiasm, leaving on porch lights and hanging Hills hoisted with gas burners and globes and draping white sheets to amplify the light.
At 11.37 pm, Friendship 7 passed over Perth at more than 28,000km/h- more than 6.4km for every beat of Lt-Col Glenn's heart. At Muchea, Colonel Cooper suggested to astronaut Glenn, look for the light show in his honor. "That's affirmative," Lt-Col Glenn radioed back. "Just to my right I can see a big pattern of lights, apparently right on the coast. I can see the outline of a town and a very bright light just to the south of it." Colonel Cooper: "That's Perth and Rockingham you're seeing there." Glenn: "The lights show up very well and thank everybody for turning them on will you."
Jesus said that we must let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify our Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5: 16). Jesus said that we are a lights and that we are as a city sat on a hill that cannot be hid. So we must shine. You may be thinking its just me; we are just a little church; I'm the only one; we are only a few. Well, let me encourage you, turn on the light because somebody is trying to find their way home. It's dark out there and someone is trying to stay on course. Because little Perth's, Australia turned on their lights, today the city is nicknamed "City of Lights." Why not be like Motel 6 and leave the lights on.

Sing: There's a country far beyond the starry sky, there's a city where there never comes a night, if we're faithful. we shall go there by and by, tis the city where the Lamb is the light.

Chorus:In the city where the Lamb is the light, in the city where there cometh no night, I've a mansion over there, that is free from toil and care, I am going where the Lamb is the light.

2013 November 11 - Morning Manna

"If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: But verily God hath heard me; he hath attended to the voice of my prayer. Blessed be God, which hath not turned away my prayer, nor his mercy from me" (Psalms 66:18-20)

Today's Morsel: One of the things that I learned about parenting is that you do not reward bad behavior.  If you tell your kids to do something and they don't do it, then don't let them do something else until they do what you told them to do.  Sad to say, too many parents do just the opposite.  When their children don't do what they tell them, they think that their children won't love them if they don't let them have their way.  The Psalmist said that if we  hold sin, wickedness, evil, or injustice in my hearts  that my Heavenly Father will not hear us.  It's not that God doesn't love us, but as His children, He's not going to listen to us or reward bad behavior.  He isn't going to listen until we do what He's told us to do; and that is repent and get those things out of our lives.  I think all of us, when we pray, want God to hear us and to answer us.   Peter even tells husband to give honor to their wives as the weaker vessel so that their prayers will not be hindered (1 Peter 3:7).  I don't know about you, but I want God to hear me when I pray and so I am going to be obedient to what He tells me to do, and keep myself pure and in His love.

Sing: Hear my cry O' Lord, attend unto my prayer, from the end of the earth will I cry unto Thee, and when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to that Rock, that is higher than I, so much higher than I.

2013 November 9 - Morning Manna

I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalms 27:13-14)

 

Today's Morsel: I am sure most of you have told your children to wait when they are nagging you for something.  And your parents probably told you the same thing when you were younger.  I often wonder how much of the weight people are carrying is because they couldn't or wouldn't wait.  I have counseled with many people about waiting to marry or waiting to buy things, but they wouldn't and in many cases they are carrying the weights of their decision.  David said, "I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living."  David had learned the importance of waiting on God. Maybe Samuel had shared with him about what had happen to King Saul, because he didn't wait for him to come and do the sacrifices.  David was aware that God would come through for him and so he encourages us, "Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD."

 

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

2013 November 8 - Morning Manna

"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh"
(Romans 8:1-3).

Today's Morsel: What would you classify as the cause of self- condemnation? Would you say that it is because people don't see themselves as being good enough? What about feeling that they cannot measure up to other's expectations? Or maybe fear of failure? No matter how you look at it, self-condemnation, like self-discipline, self-respect, or self-restraint all begin with one's self. Many condemn themselves for no reason. Jesus told Nicodemus that He did not come to condemn the world but to save it ( John 3:17). Paul lets us know that Jesus condemned sin in his flesh, because anything that is not of faith is sin. ("for whatsoever is not of faith is sin" Romans 14:23.) Jesus condemned sin for you so you wouldn't walk around condemning yourself when you make a mistake or don't think you measure up. There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit is life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. Condemnation, whether towards others or yourself, is a sign that you are walking in the flesh and not in the spirit. When you are in Christ, you are to be free from condemnation. It really doesn't matter what others think about you. What matters is what Jesus thinks about you. As He told the woman caught in adultery, "Neither do I condemn thee, go and sin no more" (John 8:11).

Sing: I have found His grace is all complete, He supplieth every need; while I sit and learn at Jesus' feet, I am free, yes, free indeed.

It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory, full of glory, it is joy unspeakable and full of glory, oh the half has never yet been told.

2013 November 7 - Morning Manna

"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin" (Romans 6:1-7)

Today's Morsel:Every day I walk into my office and look at all the artifacts on my wall. One certificate always catches my eye, and that is my baptism certificate. It is a reminder to me of that wonderful day in Wiesbaden, Germany, when I buried my sins in that watery grave in the name of Jesus. That was 28 years ago, and I have had nothing but blessings, peace, and joy of the Lord flowing my way and in my life ever since. The apostle Paul lets us know that when we were baptized into Jesus Christ, we were baptized into His death. Therefore, sin should no long control over us and our life because we buried the old man and now Jesus should be the head of our life. Do you rememember the day you were baptized and who did it? If you don't, it probably wasn't done in the name of Jesus. Scripture says that He will write His name upon us and it shall be in our forehead.

"Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of my God, and he shall go no more out: and I will write upon him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, which is new Jerusalem, which cometh down out of heaven from my God: and I will write upon him my new name" (Revelation 3:12). "And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and his servants shall serve him: And they shall see his face; and his name shall be in their foreheads" (Revelation 22:3-4).

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 November 6 - Morning Manna

"Save me, O God, by thy name, and judge me by thy strength"(Psalms 54:1)

Today's Morsel:I don't know who came up with the requirement to call 911 when there is an emergency, but it was a great idea. I think more lives have been saved by just calling those three numbers then we will ever know. Just by dialing those numbers, help can be on the way in seconds. But David didn't have 911 or a phone to call when he needed help. But he did have another code, and that was prayer. So he prayed, O God, save me by thy name. David knew that God would come through for him. David knew He knew the one who could save. The apostle Peter lets us know that the only saving name is the name of Jesus. "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). As the angel told Joseph, "And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins" (Matthew 1:21). What name are you saved by?

Sing: I'm so glad that the Lord saved me! I'm so glad that the Lord saved me! If it had not be for Jesus, where would I be, I'm so glad that the Lord saved me.

2013 November 5 - Morning Manna

"At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day. But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him; How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests? Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless? But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day" (Matthew 12:1-8)

Today's Morsel:I like reading history books and roadside historical monuments. I figure if someone was willing to take the time to post these sites and structures, than something must be important that they want me to know. And so I stop and read them. But too many people today do not. Jesus asked the Pharisees if they had read what King David had done when he was hungry. What Jesus was getting at was that if they had read about King David, they would have known who He (Jesus) was. Many today do not know who Jesus is because they do not read the history book, the Bible. If they would read and apply His teachings to their lives, they would see things in a different light. Jesus' comment also speaks to us as well. As Paul told Timothy, "Study to shew yourself approved unto God (2 Timothy 2:15). God wants us to know Him. He doesn't want any of us in the dark about who He is. If you are lacking in your knowledge of Christ today, why not open the history book, the Bible, to the book of John and start reading and it will open your understanding. If you are looking for hope, then read the book of Psalms and you'll find it will encourage your heart because the entire book is all about Him.

Sing: Do you know the man, the man from Galilee, he made the lame to walk again and caused the blind to see. He's the lily of the valley, the bright and morning star, He's Jesus Christ, the man from Galilee.

2013 November 4 - Morning Manna

"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect" (Matthew 5:48)

 

Today's Morsel:When our son graduated from high school and college with a 4.0 GPA, he was asked how he did it. He said, " I figured I started every class with an A or 100%, so it was up to me if I wanted to have it at the end of the class. And I studiesd and applied myself to maintain it." If Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8), that means He's 100% all the time. And when we see Him, He's going to be the same because He changes not. When God fills us with the Holy Ghost, His Spirit, we are complete because there is nothing or anyone greater than He. So now it's up to us if we will have the same amount when we stand before Him. As Paul 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). Are you maintaining what you started with?

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.

2013 November 2- Morning Manna

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul? (Matthew 16:26)

Today's Morsel:When I was in elementary school, because we couldn't afford school lunches, my Mom would make my lunch. Sometimes it would be just a molasses biscuit, or a couple of ham or sausage biscuits for my lunch. The grease would sometimes seep through the bag, but boy the love that had gone into making those biscuits made them taste even better during lunch. Lots of times, my friends who had money to purchase their lunch would want to trade their money for my lunch. Some times I would, but not too often. I always wanted the love that I knew was associated with my lunch. It was like having life. Jesus said, "For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?" If you were standing before Jesus right now, and your soul was at stake because of sin, what would you have to exchange to get it back? Paul lets us know "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... 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 6:6-8;10). Jesus has prepared a great meal for you when you get home; so don't trade your soul for the emptiness of this world.

Sing: Jesus has a table spread, where the saints of God are fed, He invites His chosen people, "Come and dine." With His manna He doth feed us, and supply our every need, tis so sweet to sup with Jesus all the time.

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

2013 November 1 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel:I'm always amazed at the deer in the headlight look that some folks get when I tell them that I used to work for 50 cents an hour working in the hot fields. At the end of an eight hour day, I would only have made $4. And they say, "Yeah, but things were cheaper then." They fail to realize it was still hard work no matter how cheap things cost! I don't think some people understand the price tag for sin. Paul, thought that he was working for the Lord, only to find out he was working for Satan. After Paul's encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, he realized that the price tag was too costly. So many today are working for Satan and they haven't even stopped to consider it. People who create things that causes people to sin or are creating activities for people to sin, and thus they are working for Satan. When Satan entered into Judas' heart and caused him to betray Jesus for 30 piece of silver, Judas thought it was a good price. But when he realized out what he had done, and wanted to return his pay to his employer, the workers of Satan, the enemy of Christ, he found that he couldn't return it. Judas so soon realized that he had accepted death over life. What about you? Have you considered who will pay your wages when you die?

Sing: When He calls me I will answer, when He calls me, I will hear. When He calls me, I will answer, I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.

I'll be somewhere working! I'll be somewhere working! I'll be somewhere working for my Lord; I'll be somewhere working! I'll be somewhere working! I'll be somewhere working for my Lord.