2014 November 29 - Morning Manna

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me. To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches. (Revelation 3:20-22)

Today's Morsel: There comes a time in everyone's life that we must open our heart to God for renewal. Why does Jesus want to come in?  Well first of all, He knows what we are going through or facing in our life.  And as His people, He wants to help us. But if we are too stubborn and refuse to let Him in, it is not His fault if we suffer.  When He stood in the synagogue and read from Isaiah 61, in Luke 4, He told the people that that scripture was fulfilled in their hearing.  He wanted them to know that right then and there, what the scripture had foretold they could now receive.  But they slammed the door in His face and ran Him out of town.  Have you done the same?  If Jesus comes to your door, He want to visit with you.  You never know what you may learn from Him. Why not let Him in and see what He will reveal to you about yourself as He did with the woman at the well (John 4).  

Sing: There's a promise coming down your dusty road, with a healing hand where healing virtue flows. He holds the keys to what you need, death and hell He will defeat, there's a promise coming down your dusty road.

Thought for Today: If you  pray for Jesus to help you, then open the door.

2014 November 28 - Morning Manna

And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there: And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage. And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.
 (John 2:1-3)

Today's Morsel: I've often wonder why Mary seems to be the one that was concerned that there was no wine and not the bridegroom.  I've noticed that this same attitude and concern is also sometimes in the church.  Some people are worried about the problems in the church more than the pastor, and they want to call in someone to fix it.  They say, "Let's pray that God will send someone to take care of the problem or situation."  I believe that problems are not for you to worry over, but should be seen as challenges to strengthen one's faith; something that can cause us to grow spiritually.  I'm sure if the bridegroom had been concerned about the wine, he would have done something to fix the problem.

Sing: I thirsted in a barren land of sin and shame and nothing satisfying there I found,  but to the blessed cross of Christ one day I came, where springs of living water did abound.

Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul is satisfied; Drinking at the springs of living water, what a wonderful and bountiful supply.

Thought for Today: And be not drunk with wine wherein is excess but be filled with the Spirit.

2014 November 27 - Morning Manna (HAPPY THANKSGIVING)

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

Today's Morsel:   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 and a more productive person.  It has made me a better husband and a better father.  I know it has made me a  happier person.  I’m not perfect, but gratitude has made me better in so many areas.  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.  Paul lets us know that we  should give thanks in everything, because that is God's will for our lives.  Are you thankful?  Do you possess an attitude of gratitude? Why not practice it today by offering Jesus thanks for what He's done for you.

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.

Thought for Today: In everything give thanks!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

2014 November 26 - Morning Manna

What shall I render unto the LORD for all his benefits toward me? I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. I will pay my vows unto the LORD now in the presence of all his people. (Psalms 116:12-14)

Today's Morsel:  If we would fulfill all our obligations, people would see who we really are.  Solomon said, "Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay" (Ecclesiastes 5:5).  We must fulfill our obligations.  If we say to Jesus that we will serve Him if He helps us, then we need to fulfill our vow.  The apostle Paul, lets us know that God always fulfills His vows.  He states,  "It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with him, we shall also live with him: If we suffer, we shall also reign with him: if we deny him, he also will deny us: If we believe not, yet he abideth faithful: he cannot deny himself"

(2 Timothy 2:11-13); "For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise" (Hebrews 6:13-15).  The Bible also lets us know that God is not a man that He should lie.  "God is not a man, that he should lie; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he not do it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?" (Numbers 23:19).  The Psalmist said that he would take the cup of salvation and pay his vows to the Lord in the presence of all His people.  If you are looking to obtain eternal salvation, then you must pay your vows.

Sing:  He paid a debt He did not owe, I owed a debt I could not pay, I needed someone to wash my sins away, and now I sing a brand new song amazing grace, for Jesus paid a debt that I could never pay.

Thought for Today: How would you like to be Christ's cup bearer?

2014 November 25 - Morning Manna

There is an evil which I have seen under the sun, and it is common among men: A man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wanteth nothing for his soul of all that he desireth, yet God giveth him not power to eat thereof, but a stranger eateth it: this is vanity, and it is an evil disease (Ecclesiastes 6:1-2).

Today's Morsel:  Every day I hear of some evil that has taken place in the world.  We even list men and women as being evil.  We say that the person has an evil spirit.  But Solomon said that there is an evil common among men and it is an evil disease.   He said that evil is a man to whom God hath given riches, wealth, and honour, so that he wants nothing for his soul.  When a man has riches and wealth, he often times does not see his need for Christ.  His trust is in his wealth.  He does not consider that his soul will be lost.  His riches, wealth,  and honor can give him a sense of self-pride and self-security.  James ask, "What doth it profit a man to gain the whole world and to lose his soul."  And Paul said that the love of money is the root of all evil.  Job said, "If I have made gold my hope, or have said to the fine gold, Thou art my confidence; If I rejoiced because my wealth was great, and because mine hand had gotten much; If I beheld the sun when it shined, or the moon walking in brightness; And my heart hath been secretly enticed, or my mouth hath kissed my hand: This also were an iniquity to be punished by the judge: for I should have denied the God that is above" (Job 31:24-28). Remember, your soul is more important than riches, wealth, and honor.

Sing:  Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things of this earth will go strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

Thought for Today: Remember, your soul is more important than riches, wealth, and honor.

2014 November 24 - Morning Manna

Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. (Matthew 26:36)

 Today's Morsel:  A man asked me if Jesus is God why did He need to pray.  I told him to give you an example. Jesus wanted to stress to us the importance of communication with Him.  Jesus was all about example setting.  Everything that He did was for our learning.  Even Paul told the church at Rome, "For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope"(Romans 15:4).  Jesus wanted us to have hope as well and so he instituted prayer.  Stop and think about how much better you fell when you pray.  Think about your outlook after you have prayed.  After they pray, most people will say, Thy will be done.  Jesus' example was the same.  He wanted to avoid the cup, but after praying for this, He said, "Nevertheless, not my will, but Thy will be done."   Prayer always changes our attitude.

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

Thought for Today:  Prayer still changes us.

2014 November 22 - Morning Manna

And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude followed him. And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side, when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. And the multitude rebuked them, because they should hold their peace: but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy on us, O Lord, thou Son of David. And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, What will ye that I shall do unto you? They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened. So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him. (Matthew 20:29-34)

Today's Morsel:  I like observing parents when their toddler is crying nonstop.  The parent is trying to find out what the problem is by continually asking what is wrong, but the child keeps crying and the parent just gets more frustrated.  The parent knows that they can't help if they don't know the problem. But the child, for some reason, can't stop crying long enough to tell them.  You can't solve or help solve a problem if you don't know what is wrong. These blind men in our scripture text could have called out to Jesus all day and not had their need met if they had not answered His question.  He asked them, "What will ye that I shall do unto you?"  And they said, "Lord, that our eyes may be opened."  And so Jesus opened their eyes.  Paul said, "But if our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: In whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them" (2 Corinthians 4:3-4).  You can't have your spiritual eyes opened if you don't tell someone the problem.  Many people have problems, they are crying out for help, but they won't tell anyone what the problem is because of shame and fear.  If you want Jesus to help you, you are going have to tell Him the problem.

Sing:  Are you weary are you heavy hearted, tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus. Are you grieving over joys departed? Tell it to Jesus alone.
Tell it to Jesus, tell it to Jesus, He is a friend that's well known; You have no other such a friend or brother, tell it to Jesus alone.

Thought for Today: Problem solving begins with knowing the problem.

2014 November 21 - Morning Manna

Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

(Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Today's Morsel:  My pastor and his wife were visiting us here in Wisconsin, and she wanted to see the grave of  Bella Boyd.  Belle Boyd played the role of spy as if the war were a lighthearted game of charades.  And she lived as if she were fashioning her days into the plot of a romantic story. During her lifetime she could have read about herself in at least two historical novels, although neither did justice to her dashing exploits.  The zestful Miss Boyd became an espionage agent when she was seventeen, and served the Confederacy throughout the war, in Dixie, the North, and England as well.   I often wonder what kind of legacy will I  leave behind.  I ask myself often if I'm I do enough for Christ so that others will remember what they will hear and read about me.  Solomon said, "Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest."  Once we die, there will be nothing we can do. Always remember, what you do for Christ will last.  All else in vanity.

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

Thought for Today: What you do for Christ will last. All else in vanity.

2014 November 20 - Morning Manna

"He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform" (Romans 4:20-21)

Today's Morsel:  I often wonder why alcohol makes people stagger when they are drunk.  This stuff really messes up a person's equilibrium and the world hasn't figured that out yet.  They want to ban and bar everything but alcohol.   Even on the Day of Pentecost, they accused the apostles and the others in the upper room of being drunk.  I think they may have been staggering all over the place.  I have seen many Christians drunk on the Holy Ghost.  This is the best high you can have because there are no hangovers, and the cops can't arrest you for driving drunk.  Paul said that Abraham did not stagger at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in the faith giving glory to God; and being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.  Notice, unbelief makes you stagger.  It causes you to sway back and forth in your faith.  It causes you to be double minded and unstable in all your ways.  People who can't make up their minds whether they want to serve God are not usually suffer from the spirit of unbelief and find themselves staggering.  But those who take God at His word and walk by faith, have very good balance.  

Sing:  Standing on the promises of Christ my King, through eternal ages let His praises ring. Glory in the highest I will shout and sing, standing on the promises of God.

Standing! Standing! Standing on the promises of Christ my Savior.  Standing! Standing! I'm standing on the promises of God.

Thought for Today: Be not drunk with wine wherein is excess, but be filled with the Spirit. 

2014 November 19 - Morning Manna

And David enquired of the LORD, saying, Shall I go up to the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into mine hand? And the LORD said unto David, Go up: for I will doubtless deliver the Philistines into thine hand. (2 Samuel 5:19)

Today's Morsel:  Every man, at one time or another, seeks advice for direction and guidance.  We have pastors, teachers, counselors, mentors, commanders, sergeants, all whom God has placed in our paths to give us advice and direction.  But we must always seek God and His word, to ensure that the advice and direction that is being given is according to His word and is good for our life.  As Solomon said, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12).  I find that throughout scripture, when other kings wanted King Jehoshaphat to help them in battle he always said, "Is there not here a prophet of the LORD, that we may enquire of the LORD by him...?"  2 Kings 3:11 is just one of the examples.  What Jehoshaphat was saying was, what does God say and what does He think about it.  David said, "Seek the Lord while He may be found, call upon him while he is near."  David wanted to know if God was with him before he went into battle.  And his son Solomon would later write, "Every purpose is established by counsel: and with good advice make war" (Proverbs 20:18).  If you are facing a battle, have you sought the Lord for His counsel and direction?

Sing:  Seek Ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you, Allelu-Alleluia.

Thought for Today: Every man at one time or another seeks advice for direction and guidance. (Parker)

2014 November 18 - Morning Manna

No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. (Matthew 6:24)

Today's Morsel:  Someone wrote a secular song that says, "When you're trying to love two, sure ain't easy to do."  But of course, Jesus had already told us that.  If you try to serve God and at the same time try to obtain the riches of this world, it isn't going to work.  Jesus said you are either go to love one and hate the other or you are going to hold to the one and despise the other.  Moses told Israel what their priority must be.  He said, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates"(Deuteronomy 6:4-9).  And then he told them, when everything is going well for you, "Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage" (Deuteronomy 6:12). You see, if you try to serve God and mammon, pretty soon one of them is going to steal your heart.  I pray that you will let it be Jesus.

Sing: You are the love of my life, you are the hope that I cling to, you mean more than this world to me. I wouldn't trade you for silver or gold.  I wouldn't trade you for riches untold, you mean more than this life to me.

Thought for Today: Trying to love two, sure ain't easy to do.

2014 November 17 - Morning Manna

And they told him, and said, We came unto the land whither thou sentest us, and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it. Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there. The Amalekites dwell in the land of the south: and the Hittites, and the Jebusites, and the Amorites, dwell in the mountains: and the Canaanites dwell by the sea, and by the coast of Jordan. And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. And they brought up an evil report of the land which they had searched unto the children of Israel, saying, The land, through which we have gone to search it, is a land that eateth up the inhabitants thereof; and all the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight. (Numbers 13:27-33)

Today's Morsel: The feeling of defeat always comes from looking at the circumstance and situation you are in rather than looking to God.  Israel had a promise from God that He would fight their enemies for them.  But because of so much murmuring and complaining when their situation looked bigger than their God, they lost hope.  If you watch Christians who are habitual complainers, they carry with them that under current of defeat.  I truly do believe that murmuring is a spirit of the devil.  If you follow people who listen to a lot of talk radio and news, they carry with them the spirit of complaining, and their joy is often times depleted.  The children of Israel were right at the promise that God had promised them.  A land flowing with milk and honey.  But their focus went from God to their circumstances and surrounding, they saw themselves as grasshoppers and little in the sight of the people that were in the land,  and they talked themselves into defeat.  Most people always quit so close to the finish line.

Sing:  My God is bigger than all my questions bigger than all my fears, yes, He's bigger than any mountain that I can or cannot see; He's bigger than all my problems, bigger than all doubts, yes, my God is bigger than any mountain that I can or cannot see.

Thought for Today: The feeling of defeat always comes from looking at the circumstance and situation you are in rather than looking to God. (Parker)   

2014 November 15 - Morning Manna

And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive; I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan. Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death. (Revelation 2:8-11)

Today's Morsel:  I'm sure you have heard the slogan, "We have met the enemy and he is us."  The greatest challenge of every man is himself.  If we are not careful, we can become our own worst enemy.  Life and death are in the power of the tongue, Solomon said (Proverbs 18:20). We can defeat our own self if we think that we are losers. Jesus said that the devil is going to cast some of you into prison, that you may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.  Notice, he's going to do it to test you to see what you are made of.  Maybe there is something to what people are saying when they stand in church and say, "The devil has been trying to destroy me; the devil has been trying to steal my faith, steal my joy, steal my peace, and steal my family."  Maybe he is trying you through these things to see what you are made of.  Both gold and silver need to be tested and proved in the fire.  But Jesus said that we should just stay faithful and that He will give us a crown of life.  In other words, don't quit, and don't give in, and you can be victorious an over-comer.  

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

Greater is he that is in me; Greater is he that is in me; Greater is he that is in me; Than he that is in the world.

Thought for Today: The greatest challenge of every man is himself (Parker)

2014 November 14 - Morning Manna

But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed? Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them. These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and spake of him. Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him, lest they should be put out of the synagogue:
(John 12:37-42)

Today's Morsel:  It perplexes me the number of people who do not believe that Jesus exists or that the story of Him is true.  But we should not be surprised.  John said that God robed himself in flesh and came to the earth (John 1:14), that He did great miracles right before their eyes, and yet they still believed not in Him.  It's no different today.  People see a person go to church, they see God get a hold of their life, they see them receive the Holy Ghost, get baptized in Jesus name, have a total life change, get delivered for drugs, alcohol, fornication, adultery, they see the person's marriage restored, and then those same people say that they don't believe that Jesus did it.  Are you kidding me.  There is no program in the world, other than coming into a relationship with Jesus Christ and following Biblical principles, that can do that.  Paul said, "For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged"(Romans 3:3-4).  Whether you believe or not doesn't matter, because Jesus has the final say.  People's unbelief does not change the truth.   If people don't believe Jesus now, they will believe in Him when they stand before Him. The difference is, it will be too late to believe then.

Sing:  Faith can move mountains, mountains of fear and of doubt, faith can move mountains, so why don't you try your faith out.

Thought for Today: Whether you believe or not doesn't matter, because Jesus has the final say.

2014 November 13 - Morning Manna

Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of me, but for your sakes. Now is the judgment of this world: now shall the prince of this world be cast out. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.
(John 12:30-32)

Today's Morsel: Come on you can do better than that? Clap your hands all ye people and shout unto God with a voice of Triumph.  Who said that God doesn't like sports. He's got His own cheerleader squad every Sunday to motivate us, all because many just don't seem to want to worship.  And so the praise team and praise leader try to motivate us to get Jesus lifted up in our lives.  Jesus said, "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."  Having an understanding of this, shouldn't all of us who say that we are born again be doing everything we can to elevate Christ in our lives and to others.  Jesus didn't just say some men, He said all men unto himself.  Think about this for a moment.  If one can put a thousand to flight, and two can put ten thousand to flight, think about what you could do if you lifted Jesus up.  Lifting up your Savoir may save a lost loved one.  Let's not wait for others to have to inspire us to lift Him.  Let's lift Him because He's God.

Sing:  Lift Jesus higher, higher, higher; higher, higher, higher; Higher, higher, higher, super natural higher.

Thought for today:  Lifting up your Savoir may save a lost loved one. 

2014 November 12 - Morning Manna

For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. (1 Corinthians 1:18)

Today's Morsel: In our Military Chapels,  if a Protestant or Apostolic Service follows the Catholic Service, they always have to switch the crosses around.  Because we Apostolics believe that Jesus is no longer on the cross, they had two crosses in the front of the chapel behind a curtain with a chain to switch them around.  When the Catholic's were in service, they would draw out the one with the image of Christ on it.  When Apostolics where in service, they would switch them around again.  It was always humorous to watch how quickly the personnel got it done based on their belief.  One day I thought to myself, who cares what image is out there as long as the cross is preached and Jesus is glorified.  Paul said, "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God" (1 Corinthians 1:18).  Jesus is no longer on the cross.  He was buried and He rose again on the third day.  It's not only about the image one displays on the cross, it's about the knowledge of the cross through which we receive power.

  

Sing:  So I'll cherish the Old Rugged Cross, till my trophies at last I lay down; I will cling, to the Old Rugged Cross, and exchange it someday for a crown.

Thought for Today:  It's not only about the image one displays on the cross, it's about the knowledge of the cross through which we receive power.

2014 November 11 - Morning Manna

And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, Quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.

(Hebrews 11:32-40)

Today's Morsel:  Today we honor those who have served our country that we may enjoy the freedom that we now have.   Some people think that freedom is free.  But freedom is not free.  It always costs someone their life.  This Nation, America, and the freedom we enjoy is due to men and women who were willing to sacrifice their lives that those who would come behind them could enjoy life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  From the Revolutionary War to the current battles of today, men and women have served and are serving this great nation to maintain her freedom.  The writer of Hebrews also tells us that he doesn't have the time to tell us about all the people who sacrificed their lives that we can enjoy the religious freedom that we now enjoy.  I wonder how big of a book he would have to write.  Freedom requires boots on the ground.  Even God put boots on the ground to give us liberty.  "But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law, To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons" (Galatians 4:4-5).  You see, those who don't understand the cost of freedom are those who sacrifice nothing for freedom.

Sing:  In the beauty of the lilies Christ was born across the sea, with a glory in His bosom that transfigures you and me; as he died to make men holy, let us die to make men free; His truth is marching on.

Glory, glory, hallelujah, Glory, glory, hallelujah, Glory, glory, hallelujah, His truth is marching on.

Thought for Today: Freedom always require boots on the ground.

Thanks for service my brethren in arms!

2014 November 10 - Morning Manna

And he said, A certain man had two sons: And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of that country; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks that the swine did eat: and no man gave unto him. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and I perish with hunger! I will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee, And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me as one of thy hired servants. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son. 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. Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and drew nigh to the house, he heard musick and dancing. And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things meant. And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him safe and sound. And he was angry, and would not go in: therefore came his father out, and intreated him. And he answering said to his father, Lo, these many years do I serve thee, neither transgressed I at any time thy commandment: and yet thou never gavest me a kid, that I might make merry with my friends: But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured thy living with harlots, thou hast killed for him the fatted calf. And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and all that I have is thine. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad: for this thy brother was dead, and is alive again; and was lost, and is found. (Luke 15:11-32)

Today's Morsel:  Having just finished reading our daily devotion together, and spending time reading our individual lessons, my wife made an "Uh" sound. When she does that, I know that God has just revealed to her a good thought.  She waited until I finished reading and then said, "Your Morning Manna with the Prodigal Son spoke about the loving and caring father.  And the story is all about the father," she said.  She went on to point out that  the father waited for his wayward son to return even after he had chosen to be in the hog pen of life, and when he saw him coming he ran to him.  She pointed out that the father waited until the prodigal son made the move to come home.  Yet, when the son who had been faithful and stayed at home got upset; when he murmured, pouted, and even stomped out because he was upset; the father went to him, showed him his wrong, and invited him back in.  The story is all about the loving father, standing ready to extend love to his sons.  That is how it is with Jesus, either way - He is always standing ready to welcome us back.  He is our loving father.   

Maybe you are like the wayward son and have gone astray yet desire to come home.  Know that Jesus stands ready to welcome you and throw a party to celebrate your return.  Or perhaps you are like the second son, upset about some perceived injustice or mistreatment.  Know that Jesus is a fair and loving Father who will reason with you and invite you back.   As long as you stay home, everything the Father has is yours.

Sing: One night while on life's raging sea it looked as if I would suffer defeat.
As the blackness of night closed off the light my heart sank with fear. My desperate cry rang out with fright; all I could see was no hope in sight.
With faith all but gone I met the one who came looking for me.

Chorus: He came looking for me, He came looking for me. He made a way when there was no way that I could see. When I drifted so far Jesus was near to rescue my soul and calm all my fears. Now I am safe from all harm since I met the one who came looking for me.

Thought for Today:  God is not willing that any should perish.

2014 November 8 - Morning Manna

And when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth two of his disciples, And saith unto them,  Go your way into the village over against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find a colt tied, whereon never man sat; loose him, and bring him. And if any man say unto you, Why do ye this? say ye that the Lord hath need of him; and straightway he will send him hither. And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him. (Mark 11:1-4)

Today's Morsel:  I find it somewhat interesting that a colt would be tied at the place where two ways met for Jesus to ride upon.  Why would God put a colt there?  Yes, we know that prophecy spoken by Zachariah had to be fulfilled, which said, "Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass"(Zechariah 9:9).  But why was he at the place where two ways met?  In life, there will always be two ways for you to chose from.  Heaven or hell.  Right or wrong.  Good or evil.  Life or death.  Blessings and cursing.  Sometimes, when you come to the crossroad in life where your burdens  are too heavy for you to carry, others may help carry you  And other times, you will have to carry them on your own. If you make the wrong choice and take the wrong road, you'll have to bear your own burdens.  But if you choose the right road, God will always have something or someone at the crossroad to carry you.

Sing:  I remember when my burdens rolled away, I had carried them for years night and day; when I sought the blessed Lord, and I took Him at His word them at once all my burdens, rolled away.

Rolled away, rolled away, I am happy since my burdens rolled away; Rolled away, rolled away, I am happy since my burdens rolled away.  

Thought for Today: Cast all your cares upon the Lord for He careth for you.

2014 November 7 - Morning Manna

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

Today's Morsel: One of the big things people are doing these days are taking selfies.  They hold the camera on their phones up and take pictures of themselves.  This could very well be an example of the love for one's own-self that Paul spoke of.  Every day that passes, I believe we are drawing closer to the soon coming of the Lord.  Paul said that in the last days, men would be lovers of themselves.  Not only are people lovers of themselves, but everything else that Paul spoke of is upon us today.  Therefore, we must prepare ourselves for the soon coming of the Lord.  I believe that our Redeemer will soon drawing nigh.  What are you doing to be ready?  Are you clinging to that Old Rugged Cross? Are you pulling others out of the fire?  Are you fulfilling the Great Commission?  Now is not the time to sit back and take a chill pill.  Now is the time to let your light shine brighter than you ever did before.

Sing:  I'm gonna be ready, ready when Jesus comes. I'm gonna be ready, ready when He calls my name.  In the morning, in the evening, or at noon; I'm gonna be ready, ready, when Jesus comes.

Thought for Today: Sodom and Gomorrah were taken by total surprise. 

2014 November 6 - Morning Manna

So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

(Matthew 20:16).

Today's Morsel: When I joined the Army back in 1969, the Army's theme was, "If you are good enough to get in, you'll serve your country well.  If you are going enough to get in, you'll travel far and wide.  Oh, the future can be your's in the new action army, if you think you are good enough to get on the team, then a brighter future can be yours."  But the qualification was commitment.  You see, to do anything great requires commitment.  If we are not committed to God, His word, and the things of God, we will never be chosen.  In order for the last to be first and the first to be last, we must get ourselves out of the way  We must do away with the old man, so that the new man can take preeminence in our life.  Many are called, but few will commit to that calling.  If we never get to the point of nevertheless in our lives, we will never be committed to the things that God is asking of us to do.  Paul was committed to his calling.  He told the church at Corinth: "Of the Jews five times received I forty stripes save one. Thrice was I beaten with rods, once was I stoned, thrice I suffered shipwreck, a night and a day I have been in the deep; In journeyings often, in perils of waters, in perils of robbers, in perils by mine own countrymen, in perils by the heathen, in perils in the city, in perils in the wilderness, in perils in the sea, in perils among false brethren; In weariness and painfulness, in watchings often, in hunger and thirst, in fastings often, in cold and nakedness. Beside those things that are without, that which cometh upon me daily, the care of all the churches" (2 Corinthians 11:24-28).  And he concluded, "But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24).  The only way you will complete what God starts in you is through commitment.

Sing:  He chose me! He chose me! Out of all the people in this world. He chose me! He chose me! And He can use me, till He uses me up.

Thought for Today: Remove the "I" which represents you, from the word commitment and there is none.

2014 November 5 - Morning Manna

Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man! (John 19:5)

Today's Morsel: The best part of every day is that you get to put Jesus on display.  As Christians, we are told to let our light shine that men will see our good work and glorify our Father which is in heaven.  Pilate didn't know it, but he was putting our Savior on display for the world to see.  To show you how stupid the devil is, every time someone tried to defame Jesus, they are really putting Him on display for others to see.  Really, when the media says that Christians are being persecuted, Jesus is actually being put on display, because others come to their rescue.  "The LORD hear thee in the day of trouble; the name of the God of Jacob defend thee; Send thee help from the sanctuary, and strengthen thee out of Zion" (Psalms 20:1-2).  I don't care if people speak evil because of my beliefs, it just puts my God on display.  Scripture must be fulfilled.  "And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me"(John 12:32).

If your cheeks aren't sore, you haven't been hit enough yet for what you believe.

Sing: Lift Jesus, higher, higher, higher; higher, higher, higher; higher, higher, higher; supernatural higher.

Thought for today. If people can't see Christ in you, too much of you is being seen.  (Parker)

2014 November 4 - Morning Manna

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: Are you ready for the Savior to come?  I don't believe it will be long.  Jesus said, "And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh" (Luke 21:25-28).  Nations are being stretched at the seams.  They are falling apart faster and faster day by day.  People are confused and weary. Immorality has gone crazy.  The love of many has waxed cold.  People who forecast weather, are guessing; but of course that's what they've always done.   And Jesus said that when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.  And the psalmist said that the Lord would come to judge the earth.  So my question to you today is, "Are you ready?"  He will judge in righteousness and in truth.  Really what  the psalmist is saying is that Jesus is coming to judge us because He is the Truth and He is Righteousness.  We must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, as Paul said. John wrote that Jesus said, "He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day"(John 12:48).  The same word that we hear every Sunday in our churches from the Bibles, and the same Bible that we read during our daily devotions, is going to be the same standard that Jesus uses to determine our final destination Himself.   There will be no surprises.  "And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth"(John 1:14).  I know that many have changed the Bible to try to make it tailored to meet their wishes and desires.  But if it mentions Jesus in any of its words, the standard for judgment is printed.

Sing: Oh my brother are you ready for the call?  To crown your Savior King and Lord of all.  The kingdom 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 comes; He's coming in power, we'll hail the blessed hour, we shall see the King when He comes.

Thought for Today: The truth shall make you free. 

2014 November 3 - Morning Manna

For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled"(2 Corinthians 10:3-6)

Today's Morsel: Quitting always begins with that very thought.  People get divorced because they think it would be better to get a divorce.  People quit their job because they think they don't like working there anymore.  People drop out of school, because they think of quitting school. You see everything that we do starts with a thought.  It's no different with attending church.  If we think about how great church is, and how we can make a difference at church, we'll attend church.  If we think about sacrificial giving we will give sacrificially.  Everything that we do starts in our mind.  Solomon tells us to keep our hearts with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. And Paul tells us,  "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you" (Philippians 4:8-9).  If we do not bring every thought into the obedience of Christ, we can follow our flesh and quit before we ever reach our goals.

Sing: Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face, and the things are this earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His Glory and Grace.

Thought for Today: Quitting always begins with that very thought.

2014 November 1 - Morning Manna

Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into Galilee. Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this night, before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice. Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all the disciples. Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me. (Matthew 26:31-46)

Today's Morsel:  How do you feel when people tell you they have your back and then they change their mind on you?  Peter put up a pretty good brag about not denying Jesus didn't he?  But he soon realized that his flesh was weak.  If you will notice, each time that Jesus returned and found them asleep, He addressed Peter and not James and John.  You see, Peter, the chosen to lead, had to learn how to stay alert even when he was tired.  He had to learn how to endure hardness as a good soldier.  Jesus wanted him to watch and pray as these things are essential to the ministry. Peter needed to learn at this very moment, that protection of the flock required him to be alert and to be strengthened through prayer.  Jesus was just as tired as they were, but the thing He was now facing, was soon overcome through prayer.  I often ask myself, what if Peter had not slept in that prayer meeting.  Because he slept, his flesh was weak, and he denied that he even knew Christ.  Someone said, "Seven days without prayer makes one weak."  If you begin your day with prayer, you won't be weak and give in to the flesh before noon.

Sing: Here 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.

Thought for Today: If you begin your day with prayer, you won't be weak and give in to the flesh before noon.(Parker)