2015 February 28 - Morning Manna

In your patience possess ye your souls. (Luke 21:19)

Today's Morsel: There is an old Finnish Proverb that says, "God did not create hurry."  As the world turns, it seem as though few have patience to wait any more.  We have created restaurants with drive through, take outs, and home delivery, and take our vehicles in for quick lubes, all because we are in a hurry.  We question the barber and hair salon workers as to how long it will take to get our hair done.  We ask the wait staff  how long it will take to be seated and to get our food.  We honk our horn when the car in front of us doesn't drive off the instant the light turns green, or if they stop to talk to someone and we have to wait a minute.  We look at the clock in the back of the church or at our watches to see how long the service has been going.  Everyone seems to be in a hurry.  If the Finnish Proverb is correct, then we can assume that the spirit of hurry is coming from the enemy of our souls to wear us out.  Daniel said, "And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High... (Daniel 7:25).  If you are always in a hurry, chances are you will lose your soul.  Why not slow down and try smelling the roses, you just might discover you like what they smell like.

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.

Thought for Today: God did not create hurry (Finnish Proverb)

2015 February 27 - Morning Manna

He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come"
(Luke 19:12-13)

Today's Morsel: Occupy till I come; the word “occupy” here means not merely to “possess,” as it often does in our language, but it means to “improve,” to employ “in business,” for the purpose of increasing it or of making “profit” on it.  Baker says it means "To trade it".  Jesus wants us to take risks with what He has given us.  As He told the man with the one talent who did nothing with it, you should have at least put it in the bank and I would have had interest when I returned (my words).  And so Jesus commands His disciples to “improve” their talents; to make the most of them; to increase their capability of doing good, and to do it “until” He comes to call us.  Paul told the church at Corinth ; "But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal"(1 Corinthians 12:7). With the truth as to who Jesus is, we should be gaining more wisdom, knowledge, and understanding.  And not only that,  I believe that we should be using the finances that God gives us for the advancement of His Kingdom.  If a  $50 Partner in Missions each month will win a soul, then let's spend it.  If spending a $100 to have a ladies or men's fellowship will help to win a soul, then let's spend it.  It's all God's anyhow and He said to profit with it. I believe if we use it for His glory and purpose, He will give us more.  But if we horde it, we'll have nothing to show for it when He returns.

Sing: Hold the fort for I am coming Jesus signal still; wave the answer back to Heaven, "By Thy grace we will."

Thought for Today:  Don't hide your talents, gain more.

2015 February 26 - Morning Manna

And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could in no wise lift up herself. And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity. And he laid his hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to work: in them therefore come and be healed, and not on the sabbath day. The Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite, doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass from the stall, and lead him away to watering? And ought not this woman, being a daughter of Abraham, whom Satan hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on the sabbath day? (Luke 13:10-16)

Today's Morsel.  Sometimes we can carry hurts and bitterness in our hearts for a long time.  And these same hurts and bitterness can weigh us down to the point that we are unable to sleep or stand up straight.  We may think that we are alright, but really deep down inside we are carry more then we can handle.  The woman mentioned in scripture today had her infirmity for 18 years, and was bowed down, and could in no wise lift herself up.  Jesus said that Satan had done this.  We need to know that if Satan can get us to remain hurt and bitter with others, it will keep us burdened and bowed together and not able to lift our hands in worship and praise to the Lord.  Always remember, maintaining hurts and bitterness, only hurts you.

Sing: I'm trading my sorrow, I'm trading my pain, I'm laying them down for the joy of the Lord.

 And I'll say, yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord; yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord; yes Lord, yes Lord, yes, yes, Lord  amen.

Thought for Today:  Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop. But a good word maketh it glad.

2015 February 25 - Morning Manna

In your patience possess ye your souls. (Luke 21:19)

Today's Morsel: Every time I drive by a cemetery, I ask myself, I wonder how many of those people lost their soul. And I usually begin to reflect on my own life and ask myself the question if am I ready should Jesus come for me at that moment.  I usually find myself repenting of a thought or action because I do not want to spend eternity in hell. Because our world has gotten into a jiffy pop mode; you know - the I want it now mentality; this same mentality has crept into the church.  People are ready to hit the door as soon as the pastor begins the altar call.  Many of those people who  say they are born again, no longer seem to have time to pray with anyone else at the altar.  They seem to have no patience for anyone else to receive what they have received.  These folks are those who feel secure in themselves.   James said that even when we fall into divers temptations, we need to allow patience a chance to make us complete.  Any trial or trouble is to test your patience. You must let her (patience) have her time and space in your life so that you do not lose your soul.  A soul that is lost did not possess patience.

Sing: Learning to lean, I'm learning to lean, learning to lean on Jesus; finding more power, than I've ever dreamed, I'm learning to lean on Jesus!

Thought for Today: Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and He will strengthen your heart. Wait I say on the Lord.

2015 February 24 - Morning Manna

And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest. And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father. Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God. (Luke 9:57-62)

Today's Morsel:  The expression "looking back" has a manifest reference to "Lot's Wife."  It is not an actual returning to the world, but a reluctance to let go of the world.   Jesus was telling them to follow Him and not look back.  But like so many today, she looked back.   Jesus said, " No man having put his hand to the plough and looking back is fit for the kingdom of God."  I will tell you, as a country boy, if you are plowing and you look back, your furrows are not going to be straight but they are going to be all over the place.  Again, I believe that if you have tasted of the sweet and good gifts of God, you should be seeking for more of Him.  But if  you keep looking back to the world, or what is behind you, instead of what is ahead of you; you are going to end up short of your eternal salvation.  A distracted and divided heart leads to drawing back to perdition.  As Paul wrote, I believe that we should not, "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul" (Hebrews 10:35-39).  That soul that must be saved is our very own.

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

Thought for Today:  What's in hell that you want? (P.A. Dennis)

2015 February 23 - Morning Manna

The disciple is not above his master: but every one that is perfect shall be as his master. (Luke 6:40)

Today's Morsel: "Don't judge me pastor, the Bible tells us not to judge others" a gentleman at the church said to me one day.    I replied, "I'm not a judge, I'm a fruit inspector." This blew his mind.  I went on to say to him, "My Bible says that you shall know them by their fruit.  So are you a Christian or not?"  

I believe more than anything, we need to move on to perfection.  We must become complete in Christ.  Paul said, "Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, let us go on unto perfection; not laying again the foundation of repentance from dead works, and of faith toward God, Of the doctrine of baptisms, and of laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. And this will we do, if God permit" (Hebrews 6:1-3).  There are certain things we are going to do in the church because they are basic things.  Things  like baptism, laying on of hands, and such.  But we must go on to perfection.  Jesus said that the disciple is not above his master.  The student is never greater than his teacher while he is in training or under the tutor.   Paul told the church at Galatia, "Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all; But is under tutors and governors until the time appointed of the father. Even so we, when we were children, were in bondage under the elements of the world: 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. And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father. Wherefore thou art no more a servant, but a son; and if a son, then an heir of God through Christ" (Galatians 4:1-7). Notice, you are still in training and learning until you reach an understanding and your mentor or trainer feels that you are ready.  Jesus said though that once the disciple reaches completion, he becomes the same as his master or teacher.  A good example of this was when I was in the Army.  I had a Command Sergeant Major over me when I was a First Sergeant.  He trained and taught me how to someday become a Command Sergeant Major.  Once I was promoted to Command Sergeant Major, I was then the same as he was.  And this is what Jesus is saying.  You are not greater than your master or trainer as a disciple, but when you reach completion you'll become the same.

Sing: To be like Jesus! To be like Jesus! on earth I long, to be like Him; All though life's journey, from earth to glory, I only ask to be like Him.

Thought for Today:  Are you complete in Him?

2015 February 21 - Morning Manna

But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him: and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by him of their infirmities. And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed. And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching, that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judaea, and Jerusalem: and the power of the Lord was present to heal them. (Luke 5:15-17)

Today's Morsel: One of the things about Jesus' ministry, was that it put the false teachers to silence quickly.  They were not able to do the things that He could do.   One of the methods Jesus used to show that He was Who He said He was was that of healing people.  Whether it was physically, mentally, or spiritually, the Bible said that He healed them.  "And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among the people. And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them" (Matthew 4:23-24).  The Pharisees believed in angels and in the resurrection, that's  why they were 'fair-u-see', and the Sadducees did not believe in either, that's why they were 'sad-u-see' (my Humor).  The Bible said that after certain days, as Jesus was teaching, there was the power of the Lord present to heal them.  Because Jesus was present, and all power in heaven and earth belongs to Him (Matthew 28:18), and He who is the healer was in the house, everyone could be healed that needed to be healed.    Friend, He has not lost His power to heal.  I pray we have not lost our power to believe that He can.  For He said, "If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth" (Mark 9:23).

Sing: Only believe, only believe, all things are possible, only believe. Only  believe, only believe, all things are possible, if you will only believe.

Thought for Today: "But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him" (Hebrews 11:6).

2015 February 20 - Morning Manna

The lot causeth contentions to cease, and parteth between the mighty. (Proverbs 18:18)

Today's Morsel: During olden times, when men were chosen for positions of leadership, lots were cast. It was somewhat like the game we play of drawing the shortest or longest straw to see who goes first.  When the apostles needed someone to replace Judas in order to have twelve apostles, scripture said, "For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take. Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection. And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias. And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen, That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles" (Acts 1:20-26).  They cast lots for fairness and to ensure there were no contention.  That way the other person had no room to be angry or disagree with who was chosen and selected because it was fair for all. Matthias was chosen after the lots fell to him and we read nothing of Joseph Justus having any anger.  I believe that he continued to support the work of the Lord.  Maybe we need to return to this principle.  It would prevent hardships between people and keep the unity of the body.

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:  A man's gift will make room for itself. (King Solomon)

2015 February 19 - Morning Manna

"Counsel in the heart of man is like deep water; but a man of understanding will draw it out" (Proverbs 20:5).

Today's Morsel:  One of the things I like about book signing at General Conference each year, is I get to sit and listen to many of the elders relate their past Pentecostal experiences, and it allows me the opportunity to ask them questions.  Solomon said that counsel in the heart of man is like deep water.  Some folks have a wealth of knowledge that we  may need to hear.  But if we are not willing to sit with patience, talk with them, ask them questions, and wait for them to impart it to us, we may miss out on some very important information and instructions that could help us in our life, ministry, and keep us on the right road to salvation.  The Bible says of Jesus, "And when they found him not, they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions" (Luke 2:45-46).  The sweetest and freshest water is always at the bottom of the well.

Sing:  Drinking at the springs of living water, happy now am I, my soul they satisfy; Drinking at the springs of living water, , O wonderful and bountiful supply.

Thought for Today: "The sweetest and freshest water is at the bottom of the well" (Parker).

2015 February 18 - Morning Manna

"But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am I straitened till it be accomplished! Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I tell you, Nay; but rather division: For from henceforth there shall be five in one house divided, three against two, and two against three. The father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter against the mother; the mother in law against her daughter in law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law" (Luke 12:50-53).

Today's Morsel: When James and John wanted the positions of sitting the one on Jesus' right and the other on Jesus' left hand in glory, Jesus asked them if they could be baptized with the baptism that He was baptized with.  Jesus baptism was a baptism of death.  If we are not willing to die to this world, we can never fulfill the baptism that He was baptized with.  We must die to the world and be buried in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of our sins if we desire to be in His likeness.  Paul said, "Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death?" (Romans 6:3).   Peter said, "The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ"(1 Peter 3:21).  The baptism of death (repentance) to this world, must always proceed the baptism of water (burial), or you just got wet.

Sing: Baptize me Jesus with the Holy Ghost, I shall have power, your word says so.  Satan is busy trying to turn me around, but I'm determined to stand my ground, but I can't do it, I can't do it, until you baptize me with the Holy Ghost.

  

Thought for Today: Have you been baptized in the name of Jesus for the remission of your sins? 

2015 February 17 - Morning Manna

"I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?" (Luke 12:49)

Today's Morsel:  Wild fires consume many acres and homes each year.  The total value lost to wild fires ranges in the billions of dollars.  Some fires are caused by natural disasters and others are caused by arson.  Jesus said that He was come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?  If the Holy Ghost in each of us is burning, we should see it consuming things in our lives, homes, churches, and communities.  New preaching and teaching points.  New churches.  New labors.  New souls added to the kingdom.  Our theme this year here in Wisconsin is, "Chart Your Course... And Then Burn The Map."  In other words, each local church charts their course by making a plan for the year of where they are heading and what they want to accomplish, then they allow the fire of Holy Ghost to take charge, consume them, and burn up their plans to accomplish them.   I don't know about you, but I am excited to see what God is going to do with our course after the Holy Ghost has burned our map.

Sing: Well it's that Holy Ghost and fire that's keeping me alive, keeping me alive, keeping me alive; Well, it's that Holy Ghost and fire that's keeping me alive, Jesus is keeping me alive.

Thought for Today:  Chart Your Course....Then Burn The Map. (Wisconsin District)

2015 February 16 - Morning Manna

When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest; and finding none, he saith, I will return unto my house whence I came out. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh to him seven other spirits more wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first.
(Luke 11:24-26)

Today's Morsel: I often times watch my wife when cleans the house. Sometimes it's just a quick sweep of the floor or dusting to remove the dust and dirt that she can see.  But then other times, when she wants to do a deep cleaning, she gets down on her hands and knees with solution and a bucket of hot water to get into the corners and in hidden places to remove the dirt, grime, and scuff marks on the floor.  This is how it is with some people and their sins. They have only swept the floor.  They have only removed what others could see from the outside.  They've just swept up a little dust.  They have not gotten on their knees to get into the hidden corners of their lives.  This is why the devil finds it swept and all decorated, but there has been no deep cleaning done and he's easily able to get back in to that life.   This is why many folks can leave church, go right back to the movies, bars, sit and watch the same old worldly T.V. shows, and hang out with their same old worldly friends. They haven't gotten on their knees to do a deep cleaning.   Just sweeping the floor and decorating doesn't mean that there isn't filth still there.  You can paint the outside of the house, but if you don't scrape off the old paint, the new paint is only going to hold until the old underneath begins to wear through and peel off; then the house looks a mess. If you truly want sin out of your life, do a deep cleaning. That requires you to get on your knees at an altar in prayer. "For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death" (2 Corinthians 7:10).

Sing: I want to be washed in the blood of the Lamb, I need a cleansing from the fountain, my soul is hungry, I have this burning within; and I want to be washed in the blood of the Lamb.

Thought for Today: The blood still has power to cleanse.

2015 February 14 - Morning Manna

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. (1 John 4:7-11)

Today's Morsel: One of the most quoted scriptures by Christians and non-Christians alike  is John 3:16, " For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  There has been many songs written about love, both in the Christian and secular world alike, trying to inspire and encourage people.  What is it about love that causes us to cry?  Get married to each other? And sometimes do foolish things?  Sometimes, I think that many folks have a misunderstanding of love.  John tells us that God is love. And therefore, if we do not know God, then we will never understand the true meaning of love.  As Moses told the children of Israel, "The LORD did not set his love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: But because the LORD loved you, and because he would keep the oath which he had sworn unto your fathers, hath the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt"(Deuteronomy 7:7-8).  When we have an understanding of the One who is true love, then we will understand how to give and share that love.  "Happy Valentine's Day!"

Sing:  Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so, little ones to Him belong, they are weak but He is strong.

 Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! Yes, Jesus loves me! For the Bible tells me so.

Thought for Today:  If grass can grow through cement, love can find you at every time in your life. (Cher)

2015 February 13 - Morning Manna

 "Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars: She hath killed her beasts; she hath mingled her wine; she hath also furnished her table. She hath sent forth her maidens: she crieth upon the highest places of the city, Whoso is simple, let him turn in hither: as for him that wanteth understanding, she saith to him, Come, eat of my bread, and drink of the wine which I have mingled. Forsake the foolish, and live; and go in the way of understanding" (Proverbs 9:1-6)

Today's Morsel: Every house is built based on wisdom. From the person drawing the designs, to the carpenter, plumbers, electricians, and brick layers, everyone that has a part in building the house must have the knowledge, skills, and ability to do their part unto completion. Solomon said that Wisdom has built her house.  In other words, Jesus has built His church.  It has seven pillars, which represents the number of completion.  It has everything you will ever need.  And so she, the true church, cries out, 'Come on in, forsake the foolishness of this world and live and go in the way of understanding.'  Will you heed her call?

Sing: I'm talking about the church in the Book of Revelation, it's built on a Rock, it's got a firm foundation, it's been through the flood, it's been through the fire, but one of these days the church is gonna move up higher, it's the church triumphant , O Lord and it's built by the hand of the Lord.

Thought for Today:  Commitment to the church is key to eternal salvation.

2015 February 12 - Morning Manna

"Evil pursueth sinners: but to the righteous good shall be repayed"
(Proverbs 13:21).

Today's Morsel: It seems that the world is turned upside down and evil is on the rise.  Really what is happening is, Satan only knows he has a short time to work and so evil is pursuing sinners.  You see evil, is just one letter short of devil.  If Jesus had never taken our sins upon Himself, He could have probably lived. But as soon as He begin to took on the sins of the world, and forgave people of their sins, evil pursued Him, to kill Him (my thought). Sin is always associated with evil and wrong doing.  Evil is the reward that Satan pays to those who sin.  He knows that those who sin will soon turn to completely to evil ways.  But Jesus rewards and pays the righteous with good.  Good things!  Good life!  And a good family and friends.  Don't let sin remain in your life.  If you do, evil will soon be at your door.

Sing:  Lord I give myself to You, for all the times You've been so true. I wish that there was more that I could do. I give myself to You.

Thought for Today: Let not sin reign in your mortal body.

2015 February 11 - Morning Manna

Whoso despiseth the word shall be destroyed: but he that feareth the commandment shall be rewarded. (Proverbs 13:13)

Today's Morsel: They say that a well-worn Bible is the sign of a well feed soul.   At the end of 2013, my wife gave me a new KJV Thompson Chain Bible because the one she gave me when I got saved over 30 years ago was falling apart.  I was so used to my old one and had read it so much that I could tell you if a saying or certain scripture passage was on the left side or right side of the page.  I loved that particular Bible.  I love the new one that she gave me too, but I have had to get used to it.  How much do you love the Word?  John said, "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God... 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 1:1; 14).   You see, "The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward" (Psalms 19:7-11).  Let me encourage you today, fall in love with the Word (which is Jesus) and you'll never be destroyed.

Sing:  You are the words to my music, You are the song that I sing. You are the melody, You are the harmony, praises to Your name I bring.  You are the mighty God, You are the Prince of peace, You are the King of all kings.  Now I give back to You, the song that You gave to me, You are the song that I sing.

Thought for Today: Falling in love with Jesus is the best thing a person could ever do.

2015 February 10 - Morning Manna

He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame. (Proverbs 10:5)

Today's Morsel: How much forethought do you give to life?  I have learned some valuable lessons lately.  For example; last summer the air conditioner went out in my truck.  The first thing the mechanic said to me after he quoted me the price to fix it was, If it was winter it probably would be cheaper."  Really!  Because it was hot, they could raise the price and I would have to pay if I wanted air conditioning in my truck.  So I learned having the A/C checked in the winter might save me money in the summer.  I was also in a store one summer, and they had all their ladies' London Fog winter coats on sale.  The sale was great at  buy one at 75% off, and get another one free.  Now it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure that one out.  Needless to say, my wife got four winter coats in the summer for the coming winter.  Notice, Solomon said, "He that gather in summer is a wise son."  Don't wait till winter comes again next year to buy your family clothes, use wisdom and buy them in the coming sales.  They are cheaper and most of the times you can get them for 50-80% off the regular price.  Oh! And by the way, did you know that you find more sales in the summer than you do the winter?  Wisdom is known of her children.

Sing: To be like Jesus; To be like Jesus; on earth I long to be like Him.  All through life's journey, from earth to glory, I only ask, to be like Him.

Thought for Today: When is the last time you checked the ants?

2015 February 9 - Morning Manna

Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. (Proverbs 13:10).

Today's Morsel: Have you ever noticed that division and strife are always associated with pride.  I have been looking at this thing called pride a little bit closer than I had before.  Scripture calls for us to check ourselves to ensure that we don't allow pride to get the upper hand.  For example, "A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit" (Proverbs 29:23);  "These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look..." (Proverbs 6:16-17);

"The wicked in his pride doth persecute the poor: let them be taken in the devices that they have imagined...The wicked, through the pride of his countenance, will not seek after God: God is not in all his thoughts"  (Psalms 10:2;4); "When pride cometh, then cometh shame: but with the lowly is wisdom" (Proverbs 11:2); "Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall" (Proverbs 16:18).  And now Solomon tells us that only by pride comes angry disagreement between people.  He is letting us know that one or both of the people involved in the disagreement have pride within their heart.  Whichever one it is, they should take immediate action to rid themselves of it or else it will destroy them.

Sing: Jesus be the Lord of all; Jesus be the Lord of all; Jesus be the Lord of all the kingdoms of my heart.  Jesus I surrender all; Jesus I surrender all; Jesus I surrender all the kingdoms of my heart.

Thought for Today: Whatever you do, don't be lifted up with pride!

2015 February 7 - Morning Manna

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: ... He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end" (Ecclesiastes 3:1;11)

Today's Morsel: Everything we do seems to be measured by time. We work each day based on time.  We take exams based on time.  Doctor appointments are based on time. Our travels are based on time.  Military assignments are usually based on time.  How long we live is based on time.  Divers can only stay under water for a certain length of time.  Food is cooked based on time.  What is it about time? Who came up with this thing called time?  Most people have a watch so that they can tell the time.  Is time really correct?  Solomon said that there is a time to every purpose under heaven and that God has made all things beautiful in His time.  I guess, since God makes all things beautiful in His time, then we might as well allow Him to work in His time.  We can't control the time. "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).

Sing:  Time is filled with swift transition, naught of earth unmoved can stand; build your hopes on things eternal, hold to God's unchanging hand.

Hold to God's unchanging hand! Hold to God's unchanging hand! Build your hopes on things eternal, hold to God's unchanging hand!

Thought for Today: It's only a matter of time (Bennett) 

2015 February 6 - Morning Manna

The beginning of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of God; As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. (Mark 1:1-5)

Today's Morsel:  I'm amazed at the number of churches that do not preach the  baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. When we begin to read Marks account of the gospel of Jesus Christ, he lets us know at the onset that John the Baptist preached the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins. And there went out unto him all the land of Judaea, and they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of Jordan, confessing their sins. Why preach against sin if you aren't going to baptize people for the remission of sins.  This is why Jesus told His disciples, "And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things" (Luke 24:46-48).  Jesus told them repentance and remission of sins must be preached in His name.  John the Baptist was aware of that as well.  And so, on the Day of Pentecost, after the 120 in the upper room were filled with the Holy Ghost, Peter began to preach about Jesus Christ, and when the people asked him what they should do, Peter said unto them, "Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls" (Acts 2:38-41)."  "Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount" (Hebrews 8:5).  Peter did not change the pattern that John the Baptist and Jesus had already established.  Later in his own epistle he would write, "By which also he went and preached unto the spirits in prison; Which sometime were disobedient, when once the longsuffering of God waited in the days of Noah, while the ark was a preparing, wherein few, that is, eight souls were saved by water. The like figure whereunto even baptism doth also now save us (not the putting away of the filth of the flesh, but the answer of a good conscience toward God,) by the resurrection of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 3:19-21). Have you had your sins remitted?  Baptism still works.

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

Thought for Today: Baptism still doth save us.

2015 February 5 - Morning Manna

"Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great supper, and bade many: And sent his servant at supper time to say to them that were bidden, Come; for all things are now ready. And they all with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them: I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come. So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things. Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind. And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled. For I say unto you, That none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my supper" (Luke 14:16-24).

Today's Morsel: During the Pony Express days in America, the horse riders were tasked with delivering the mail as quickly and as safely as possible.  Each postal location along the route of delivery was responsible to provide the rider with a fresh horse.  Because the horses would tire from being ridden so fast, the riders were given a fresh and often times faster horse at the stopping point.  Today, I believe that too many have been chosen by Jesus to deliver the mail (The Gospel), and and they are riding the same horse too long and too far.  The horse that they are riding, whose name is called "Excuse",  needs to be changed out.  He's tired and worn.  He needs a break.  He's been ridden by too many for too long.  Jesus said that a supper was made by a certain man, but those who were invited made excuses why they couldn't come.  In other words, they were riding that same old horse many are riding today.  Excuse!  And they were not allowed to be a part of the supper.  There is a banquet prepared for the church, but if you are riding the horse whose name is "Excuse", you will miss out every time.  Excuse is subject to quit on you before you arrive at the supper.

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 and supplies our every need; O tis, 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 fed the multitude turned the water into wine, to the hungry calleth now, "Come and dine."

Thought for Today: The horse called Excuse needs to be changed (Parker)

2015 February 4 - Morning Manna

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: (Isaiah 26:3-4)

Today's Morsel: Joy is contentment within when there is adversity without.  Peace is calmness within when there are billows over flowing you.  Righteousness is right when others accuse you of being wrong.  When you really know Jesus, you know where these things come from. The kingdom of God is yours if you want it.  Even when weeping and sadness strikes you at unexpected times, joy still comes in the morning,  peace will still calm the strife, and righteousness will still clothe you in white linen.  Fret not little flock, it is in the storms of life that you must not lean unto your own understanding.  God is love and in Him is no guile at all.

Sing: He gives strength to me, as I worship Him, as my heart is filled praise; Jesus breaks the bands, when I raise my hands, He gives glorious victory!

Thought for Today: LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.

2015 February 3 - Morning Manna

A Psalm of David. LORD, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee. Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. (Psalms 141:1-2).

Today's Morsel: I sometimes sit and think about the number of books that I have read on prayer, prayer conferences I have attended, sermons I have heard on prayer, how many pre-service prayer services I have conducted, how many times I have closed church services and meetings in prayer, and taught on prayer, and I still  feel that I don't pray enough.  Don't get me wrong, I know how to pray, love to pray, and get strengthened through praying, but there are times when I feel that I need to turn up the tempo a little bit more.  It seems that there are more sicknesses, hurts, misunderstandings, divorces, backslidden children, discouraged ministers and ministers wives and their children, and more distresses upon saints today, all these and more that need prayer is becoming more paramount.  All these would fall in the category of intercessory prayer.  And intercessory prayer is essential.  Yet what about the prayer that just gives God thanks and praise?  Do we think that He might want to hear those more from us?  I think if we will allow this type of prayer, the ones that give Him thanksgiving, to flow from us as a sweet smell into his presence, He will hear our faintest cry and He will answer our intercessions by and by.

Sing: Now let us have a little talk with Jesus, let us tell Him about our troubles, He will hear our faintest cry, He will answer by and by, when you feel a little prayer wheel turning, you'll know a little fire is burning, you'll find a little talk with Jesus makes it right.

Thought for Today: Prayer still works.

2015 February 2 - Morning Manna

Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! (Matthew 18:7)

Today's Morsel: Some folks misunderstand offenses with spiritual correction.  Offenses are more like an attack against someone. They can be stumbling blocks in another's pathway.   Some folks, when corrected or rebuked, may feel it's an offense or a stumbling block.  But spiritual corrections and spiritual rebukes are designed to build you and strength you in truth, whereas offenses are designed to tear you down.  Peter said of Jesus, " but unto them which be disobedient... a stone of stumbling, and a rock of offence, even to them which stumble at the word, being disobedient: whereunto also they were appointed" (1 Peter 2:7-8).  Paul said of Him, "But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock..." (1 Corinthians 1:23).  Because Jesus often tried to correct the religious, they saw Him as an offense to their teachings. They felt that He was attacking them, and so they saw Him as a stumbling block.  Some people are offended by truth because they are complacent. When a person is satisfied and set in their ways or with where they are in Christ, any request of them, correction of them, or rebuke for them to change is seen as an offense by them.  If we lack spiritual knowledge, it is easy to be offended by truth.  If I make you stumble or offend you for my own selfish ways, I'm wrong and God will deal with me.  But if you get offended because of truth, judge ye (See also John 6:53-71).

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

  

Thought for Today: Get wisdom and with all thy getting get an understanding (Solomon).