2015 July 31 - Morning Manna

After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had. And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath. The Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It is the sabbath day: it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed. He answered them, He that made me whole, the same said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk. Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed, and walk? And he that was healed wist not who it was: for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a multitude being in that place. Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said unto him, Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee. The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus, which had made him whole. (John 5:1-15)

Today's Morsel: So many people today seem to be laying on the porch at the pool of Bethesda.  They are as John said, a great multitude of impotent folk, blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water.  But just like the man who was on the porch for 38 years when Jesus arrived, Jesus wants you off the porch.  Jesus did not ask the man if he wanted to be healed because He knew that his condition was caused by sin.  Rather, He asked if he wanted to be made whole.  You see, you can't heal sin.  You have to kill sin from your life because it is of the devil.  This is why the first step to salvation is repentance.  Sin must be first addressed and dealt with by you.  And then the next step is to be buried in the waters of baptism in the name of Jesus Christ.  Healing is only temporary, but wholeness is forever if you allow Jesus to rule and lead your life once He has made you whole.

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

Thought for Today: It's time to get off the porch! 

2015 July 30 - Morning Manna

The LORD is my strength and song, and is become my salvation. The voice of rejoicing and salvation is in the tabernacles of the righteous: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly. The right hand of the LORD is exalted: the right hand of the LORD doeth valiantly. I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD.
(Psalms 118:14-17)

Today's Morsel: So many people seem to be confusing life with things.  And so, because they don't have an abundance of things they don't see the value of life.  Life isn't about what we have or don't have, it is about Jesus Christ.  The question doesn't make sense for someone to ask is life worth living?  If life wasn't worth living, we would ever have been born.  The reason so many don't see life as worth living is because they aren't applying themselves to a Godly purpose.  Jesus gave us life so that we could live and glorify His name.  The psalmist said, "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the LORD."  He saw that his purpose for living was to be declaring what God had done. Sharing the gospel to set the captives free, and leading others into a right relationship and into the way of truth is a life worth living for us all.  If you don't think you have a purpose for living, just teach someone a Bible study and you will surely see that your view of life will change.

Sing: Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because He lives all fear is gone. Because I know, He holds the future, my life is worth the living just because He lives.

Thought for Today: "Is life worth living?' The question does not make sense." Erich Fromm, German sociologist.

2015 July 29 - Morning Manna

Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks; I know thy works, and thy labour, and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them which are evil: and thou hast tried them which say they are apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars: And hast borne, and hast patience, and for my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted. Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent. But this thou hast, that thou hatest the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate.  He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God. (Revelation 2:1-7)

Today's Morsel: Does it seem to you that God doesn't seem to matter to people anymore?  Why does it seem that so many of those who once loved God, don't seem to display that desire anymore?  Many seem to display the attitude of the church at Ephesus.  They have left their first love.  God doesn't matter to them.  They think they have it all together.  Many think that they know what love is until they are filled with God's Spirit.  And then they really understand what it feels like to be truly loved.  But then, because there isn't a nurturing of that love they don't want it anymore.  And so they walk away from their first love, God.  You see, when God no longer matters to you, nothing else really matters to you either.  You may think it does, but it doesn't because without Jesus you can do nothing.  Don't leave your first love.  Keep that first love alive and real in your life.  Always seeking Jesus, the giver of life.  He makes everything better, richer, and fuller.  Fall in love with Him every day.

Sing: I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and, over and over again; I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and, over and over again.  He gets sweeter and sweeter as the days go by, oh what a love between my Lord and I, I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and, over and over again.

Thought for Today: Love is really what you make it.

2015 July 28 - Morning Manna

But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived. But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. (2 Timothy 3:13-17)

Today's Morsel:  Most people today are starting to wonder where so much evil is coming from. Why does it seem that evil is lurking on every corner and in many households. Well, the answer lies in the fact that most people have forgotten, or have never heard the two greatest commandments.  Those commandments are to love God and to love thy neighbor as thyself.  Satan knows that with the removal of the commandments and teachings about God in the schools and homes, he will create more evil in people's lives.  You see, when you remove God and His word from anything or anyplace, you remove love.   And when you remove love, you create an environment for hate and evil.   But we must continue in the truth of  God's word.  Love covers all sin.  So you beloved, keep yourself in the love of God and love His word.  People still need deliverance from sin, so preach the gospel, which is based on love.

Sing: I will enter his gates with thanksgiving in my heart, I will enter his courts with praise. I will say this is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice for he has made me glad.

Thought for Today: The wicked shall not live out half their days.

2015 July 27 - Morning Manna

And he said unto his disciples, Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls? And which of you with taking thought can add to his stature one cubit? If ye then be not able to do that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith? (Luke 12:22-28)

Today's Morsel: Here in Wisconsin, they just recently raised the speed limit from 65 miles per hour to 70 miles per hour on the interstate.  The people cried that they wanted to be like the other neighboring states that had their speed limit already set at 70 miles per hour.  Indian reformer Mohandas K. Gandhi said, "There is more to life than increasing its speed."  Even Jesus  seems to call for us to slow down and take a closer look at life (Luke 12:22-28).  Life isn't about speed.  Life is about enjoying your surroundings and the people you are with.  It's not about more stuff and more things and hurrying along.  So many people are departing this world never enjoying life because they are speeding through it.   Solomon the wisest man in the world said, "I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all" (Ecclesiastes 9:11).  And James admonishes us, "Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away" (James 4:14).   Life is short, therefore we need to slow down and enjoy it.  Don't be so busy making a living that your forget to make a life.

Sing: To worship You I live! To worship You I live, I live to worship You.  To worship You I live! To worship You I live, I live to worship You.  Oh, Oh, Oh,  Oh, Oh!  Oh, Oh, Oh,  Oh, Oh!

Thought for Today: "The faster you go, the more you miss" 

2015 July 25 - Morning Manna

But after long abstinence Paul stood forth in the midst of them, and said, Sirs, ye should have hearkened unto me, and not have loosed from Crete, and to have gained this harm and loss. And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man's life among you, but of the ship. For there stood by me this night the angel of God, whose I am, and whom I serve, Saying, Fear not, Paul; thou must be brought before Caesar: and, lo, God hath given thee all them that sail with thee. Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me. (Acts 27:21-25)

Today's Morsel: Maintaining a spirit of cheerfulness in the storms of life is essential to making it to the other side.  When the people on the ship with Paul became discouraged because they felt that their lives would be lost Paul encouraged them to be of good cheer.  Paul wanted them to not lose heart and faith in their storm.  He knew that in order for them to succeed, they needed to stay cheerful. One of the reasons you need to remain cheerful in the storms of life, is if you are not cheerful, depression can set in and you take matters into your own hands and not wait on the Lord.  We see this with some of the men on board with Paul who tried to sneak out of the ship.  But Paul told them that except they abide in the ship they could not be saved (vs 30-31).  Even though we may not know the outcome of the storm, all successes begin with those who are cheerful.

Sing: We will sing, sing, sing, and make music with the heavens. We will sing, sing, sing, and be grateful that You hear us. When we shout Your praise, lift high the name of Jesus.

Thought for Today: Be of good cheer!

2015 July 24 - Morning Manna

He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls. (Proverbs 25:28).

Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. (Philippians 4:11-13)

 Today's Morsel:  Probably one the toughest people to command is ourselves.  Why are we often times harder on others than we are on ourselves?  Shouldn't we be more concerned with us than others?  The Lord told Ezekiel, "Saying, Son of man, when the land sinneth against me by trespassing grievously, then will I stretch out mine hand upon it, and will break the staff of the bread thereof, and will send famine upon it, and will cut off man and beast from it: Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD" (Ezekiel 14:12-14).  If I can't save anyone but myself, shouldn't I be more concerned with myself and than others?  You see, not until I can command myself can I command others!  Solomon said,  "He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls" (Proverbs 25:28). Don't ever deceive yourself.  Be honest with yourself and correct your own ways.  

Sing: Jesus be the Lord of all, Jesus be the Lord of all, Jesus be the Lord of all, The kingdoms of my heart.

Thought for Today: Self-discipline, Self-restraint, and Self-control all begin with self.

2015 July 23 - Morning Manna

Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
(John 14:1-7)

Today's Morsel:  Anxiety seems to be running ramped throughout the land.  I don't seem to go a day without hearing someone share their concerns or worries.  Some are concerned with the way the nation is going.  Some are concerned with the way the schools and churches are going. While others are uneasy about the stock market and life in general.  Sholem Aleichem, 19th-century Yiddish writer said, "God gave me such a good brain that in one minute I can worry more than others do in a year."  Maybe this is some peoples' problem.  That good brain that God gave them is being used for the wrong reason. Worry!  Jesus said,  "Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me."  There is no need for a born again believer to be inundated with concern.  Jesus is the antidote for the troubled mind, and He still has the power to calm the storm. "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)

Sing: I hear the sound, of a mighty rushing wind, and it's closer now, than it's ever been, I can almost hear the trumpet, as Gabriel sounds the call; and at the midnight cry, we'll be going home.

Chorus:  When Jesus steps out, on the cloud to call His children, the dead in Christ shall rise, to meet Him in the air, and then those that will remain, will be quickly changed, because at the midnight cry, we'll be going home!

2015 July 22 - Morning Manna

Be patient therefore, brethren, unto the coming of the Lord. Behold, the husbandman waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long patience for it, until he receive the early and latter rain. Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. (James 5:7-8)

Today's Morsel:   As a pastor, one of the things about the church growth process, is you have to learn how to wait.  One of the trials for some ministers is having that patience to wait for the precious fruit of the earth.  Seeds don't grow over night.  There is a time and season to every purpose under heaven.  James said that the husbandman waits for the precious fruit of the earth, and has long patience for it, until he receives the early and latter rain.  Notice, he has to have long patience.  Ouch!  If a pastor isn't patient, he can lose heart and miss the crop.  So let me encourage you today, if you are a minister of the gospel or if you are sharing the Word with someone through study, stay the course, work your plan, and allow God to give the increase.

Sing:  I lean on You Lord, I lean on You Lord; for the things that I need, I lean on You. When I don't know just what to do, I've got the faith You're gonna see me through. You supply my every need and I lean on You.

Thought for Today: Be a good husbandman and wait.

2015 July 21 - Morning Manna

A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.

(Proverbs 17:22)

Today's Morsel: I have this clean joke book that I like to keep by my bedside for when I need a good laugh.  I especially like to read a few jokes when my day hasn't been so good.  Solomon says that a merry heart does good like a medicine. In other words, it can make you feel so much better.  

Here's one for you:  A little boy was waiting for his mother to come out of the grocery store.  As he waited, he was approached by a man who asked, "Son, can you tell me where the post office is?" The little boy replied, "Sure, just go straight down the street a couple blocks and turn to your right." The man thanked the boy kindly and said, "I'm the new pastor in town, and I'd like you to come to church on Sunday. I'll show you how to get to Heaven." The little boy replied with a chuckle, "Awww, come on; how can you show me how to get to heaven, you don't even know the way to the post office!"

I bet if you look in the mirror, you can find something to laugh about.  I pray that you have a joyous day!

Sing: He fills my mouth with laughter, Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! He fills my mouth with laughter, Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! He fills my mouth with laughter, Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!  The joy of the Lord is my strength.

Thought for Today: Humor is still  good medicine.

2015 July 20 - Morning Manna

I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.
(Psalms 101:2-4)

Today's Morsel:  American comedian Woody Allen said, "Life doesn't imitate art, it imitates bad television."  It has been said that the average American household watches at least 5 hours of television a day.  If that is true, then we can see why our nation is in such a state of moral decline; especially if Mr. Allen's statement is true.  The Psalmist said, "I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me." Maybe it's time for every house to evaluate the time it spends before television.   Maybe if we all start imitating Christ, instead of bad television, we will all start getting along and morality in our nation will rise once again.  "Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).

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: Be careful what you set before your eyes.

2015 July 18 - Morning Manna

I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then I saw, and considered it well: I looked upon it, and received instruction. Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.

(Proverbs 24:30-34)

Today's Morsel: The Book of Proverbs, the book of wisdom for us, seems to shed light on so many things.  And one of those things is laziness.  Looking back over my life, I can see that the good hard work my parents made me endure really helped my work ethics.  I can remember working from sun up to sun down and at the end of the day having made only $5 for that full day's work.  We sometimes worked 10-12 hours a day for fifty cent an hour and it didn't kill us. There was no slothfulness around our house.  You didn't get to sleep in.  My dad always found something for us to do.  And today, all of my siblings have stuck with their jobs to  retirement.  Solomon said he went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; And, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down. Then he saw, and considered it well: He looked upon it, and he received instruction. The instruction he received was that:  A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep will bring poverty as one that travelleth; and thy want as an armed man.  He would later write, "Slothfulness casteth into a deep sleep; and an idle soul shall suffer hunger" (Proverbs 19:15); "The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets" (Proverbs 22:13); "For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags" (Proverbs 23:21).  Even the apostle Paul tells us that if a man will not work neither shall he eat.  There is no room for slothfulness in the Kingdom of God.  God is looking for the good and faithful servant, that includes us working faithfully each day.

Sing: Jesus use me, Lord don't refuse me, surely there's a work that I can do.  And even though it's humble, Lord help my will to crumble.  Though the cost be great, I'll work for you.

Thought for Today: "Plough deep while sluggards sleep." Ben Franklin

2015 July 17 - Morning Manna

Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:10-20)

Today's Morsel: When I was in the military, I didn't care too much for the peace time army.  I didn't care to be in the rear when everyone else was down range fighting.  I wanted to be where the action was. You see, soldiers train to go to war and to protect and defend their country. They don't care too much about sitting around and doing nothing.  They want to put their training into action. They want to destroy their enemies. I know that may sound morbid, but that's what they train for. If the church would get this mind set and get into the fight, we could take the land. Many Christian soldiers are like the children of Israel and they have hung their harps on the willow (Psalms 137:1-4), they don't want to fight.  This is a warfare. And every Sunday you sit in church it is to prepare you for battle.  If you leave church every Sunday without a challenge to save the lost, pretty soon you won't see the need for your armor. You don't see soldiers who are on the front line of battle not wearing armor.  Church is to prepare you fight. We can either take the fight to the enemy or he's going to bring it to us. I choose to take it to him. What about you. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.  If you aren't willing to fight for right, you will die for wrong!

Sing: Let God arise and His enemies be scattered; Let God arise and His enemies be scattered; Let God arise and His enemies be scattered, Let God! Let God ! Arise.

Thought for Today: If you aren't willing to fight for right you will die for wrong! (Parker)

2015 July 16 - Morning Manna

Then said he unto Zebah and Zalmunna, What manner of men were they whom ye slew at Tabor? And they answered, As thou art, so were they; each one resembled the children of a king. And he said, They were my brethren, even the sons of my mother: as the LORD liveth, if ye had saved them alive, I would not slay you. And he said unto Jether his firstborn, Up, and slay them. But the youth drew not his sword: for he feared, because he was yet a youth. Then Zebah and Zalmunna said, Rise thou, and fall upon us: for as the man is, so is his strength. And Gideon arose, and slew Zebah and Zalmunna, and took away the ornaments that were on their camels' necks. (Judges 8:18-21)

Today's Morsel:  Jesus said that He had come to give us life and that more abundantly.  If we are filled with life, shouldn't we be filled with courage?  How would you rate your courage?  Solomon said that if we faint in the day of adversity, then our strength is small (Proverbs 24:10).  Scripture says that the righteous are bold as lions. That means we should be full of courage.  When Gideon wanted his younger son to kill his  enemies, scripture says that he feared because he was yet a youth.   If we don't kill the things that can hider us in our lives while we are young, they can come back and destroy us when we are old; just ask King Saul.  Because he did not kill the Amalakites, as God instructed him when he was young, they killed him when he was old. We must have the courage to kill any unrighteousness, ungodliness, or anything that goes against the word of God in our lives while we are young so that it cannot return and destroy us when we are older.

Sing: Be bold, be strong, for the Lord thy God is with thee.  Be bold, be strong, for the Lord thy God is with thee. I am not afraid, I am not dismayed, because I'm walking in faith and victory, I'm walking in faith and victory, because the Lord my God is with me.

Thought for Today: "Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one's courage." Anais Nin, American writer. 

2015 July 15 - Morning Manna

I know that, whatsoever God doeth, it shall be for ever: nothing can be put to it, nor any thing taken from it: and God doeth it, that men should fear before him. That which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been; and God requireth that which is past. 

(Ecclesiastes 3:14-15)

 Today's Morsel: We humans seem to find ways to make people think that the new gadgets and productivity of things are all new.  But scripture lets us know, "The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun" (Ecclesiastes 1:9).  Solomon said that which hath been is now; and that which is to be hath already been.  I guess this is why I don't get too excited about new gadgets when they hit the market, because they are soon recycled into something else.  If we want something that is consistent and always new, then we should turn to Jesus. Jeremiah said of His compassion, they are new every morning, great is Thy faithfulness (Lamentation 3:24).  Isn't it refreshing to know that God changes not?  "Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever" Paul said, (Hebrews 13:8).  He's the only thing that stays the same.  Everything else changes.

Sing:  To God be the glory,  To God be the glory,  To God be the glory, for the things He has done. With His blood He has saved me, with His Power He has raised me. To God be the glory, for the things He has done.

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

2015 July 14 - Morning Manna

Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:4-5)

Today's Morsel: Often times, when pondering on the word of God, I find myself asking the question as to why it seems that many Christians are so filled with sorrow and grief.  If Jesus has borne these things for us, should we not be excited and uplifted. Why do we allow our heartaches and unhappiness to overtake us when Jesus has encouraged us to cast all of our cares upon Him?  As Christians, the scriptures give us hope (Romans 15:4).  Weeping may endure for a night, but if we focus on what Jesus has done for us then joy should come in the morning.  Remember, Jesus is the antidote for the troubled mind (John 14:1).

Sing: He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities. Surely, He bore all our sorrows, and by His stripes we are healed.

Thought for Today:  Jesus is the antidote for the troubled mind.

2015 July 13 - Morning Manna

And he came thither unto a cave, and lodged there; and, behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said unto him, What doest thou here, Elijah? And he said, I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away. And he said, Go forth, and stand upon the mount before the LORD. And, behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD; but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the LORD was not in the earthquake: And after the earthquake a fire; but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a still small voice. 

(1 Kings 19:9-12)

Today's Morsel:  Being able to discern the voice of God should be the hallmark of every believer.  Jesus said that His sheep know His voice, and He is known of them (my wording) John 10:4-5;27.   We must be able to recognize when God speaks to us.  Elijah realized that God spoke in a still small voice and not in the wind, earthquake, or fire.  It was not a scream or a yell, but a tranquil and calm voice. When one speaks from a heart of compassion and humility, as Jesus does, it is often times smoothing and easy to be entreated.  As James says, "But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy" (James 3:17).  Cory Booker, American politician said, "Real courage is holding on to a small voice in your head that says, 'I must keep going.'" This is what the Lord was speaking to Elijah, you have a journey ahead of you and you must keep going.  If Jesus has spoken a promise to you in His still small voice, then you must have the courage to stay the course and you must keep going.

Sing: There's something inside of me, telling me to go ahead; There's something inside of me, telling me to go ahead; There's something inside of me, telling me to go ahead, go ahead! go ahead! go ahead!

The Holy Ghost inside of me is telling me to go ahead; The Holy Ghost inside of me is telling me to go ahead; The Holy Ghost inside of me is telling me to go ahead, go ahead! go ahead! go ahead!

Thought for Today: "Real courage is holding on to a small voice in your head that says, "I must keep going." Cory Booker, American politician.

2015 July 11 - Morning Manna

Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up. Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. (Matthew 24:42-44)

Today's Morsel: We all seem to understand the importance of being ready. We pack our suitcases early and ensure that we are at the airport at least two hours in advance so that we do not miss our flight.  Most parents ensure that their children are ready for school so that they do not miss the bus.  Many know what time the bus, train, streetcar, and those they carpool with will come and they are ready when their ride arrives.  Most everyone prepares and is ready for the things that are important to them, yet so few seem to be getting ready for the coming of the Lord.  Jesus said that we are to watch: for we know not what hour our Lord will come. No man knows when He will come. Therefore the call is for us always to be ready. Are you ready should He come today?

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

Thought for Today: "I think the necessity of being ready increases. Look to it." (Abraham Lincoln)

2015 July 10 - Morning Manna

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.
(1 Timothy 4:12-16)

Today's Morsel: The Army used to have what it called Skill Qualification Test (SQT). Each year, based on their military occupation specialty, every soldier had to take a proficiency test to maintain their proficiency and  keep their military specialty.  If the soldier failed twice, they were either reclassified into another specialty, or discharged from the Army.  Therefore, soldiers applied themselves by studying to ensure they passed.  We must never stop learning. Today's technology has even forced some of the elderly to return to learning in order to stay abreast of the times.  Paul told Timothy until he comes, to give himself to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.  Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.  Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.  Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.  Every child of God, must be proficient in the doctrine of Christ.  A sign that you've stopped learning is you don't know how many animals Moses took with him on the Ark.   If you said two of each you are wrong.  Moses didn't take any animals on the Ark with him, Noah did! Keep on studying, we want to be workmen who need not be ashamed.   

Sing:  I shall know Him! I shall know Him! By the nail prints in His hand.

Thought for Today: The day you stop learning is the day you stop leading (Abe Lincoln).    

2015 July 9 - Morning Manna

And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, and bid them that they make them fringes in the borders of their garments throughout their generations, and that they put upon the fringe of the borders a ribband of blue: And it shall be unto you for a fringe, that ye may look upon it, and remember all the commandments of the LORD, and do them; and that ye seek not after your own heart and your own eyes, after which ye use to go a whoring: That ye may remember, and do all my commandments, and be holy unto your God. I am the LORD your God, which brought you out of the land of Egypt, to be your God: I am the LORD your God. (Numbers 15:37-41)

Today's Morsel:  When I was young and  we would watch television programs of wars between the U.S. soldiers and the American Indians,  it always amazed me that the soldiers could tell what tribe the Indians were a part of either by the arrows they used or a certain type of feather in the end of their arrow, or the feathers in their headbands.  In a War Museum, I read that the wedding band was given as a reminder of faithfulness between husbands and wives while they were apart from each other during World War 2; and that it was also a symbol to others that the person was unavailable.   Rahab was told to keep the scarlet cord in the window as identification for her and her household's salvation.  And in our scripture reading today, Israel was told to put the fringe on the borders a ribbon of blue so when they saw it they would be reminded of the commandments of the Lord.  If you hide the word of God in your heart, it will always remind you of what God said, and it will keep you unspotted from this world, and people will know who you belong to.

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

Thought for Today: Your identity can be seen in your character.  

2015 July 8 - Morning Manna

 "And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the LORD: Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me. This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. The LORD is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD" (Lamentations 3:18-26)

  

Today's Morsel:   As we already know, the word faithfulness means unwavering in belief, consistently trustworthy and loyal, especially to a person, promise, or duty.  The trait of faithfulness is essential to every child of God, and it, like the other traits of character, must be developed in each of us.  One of the things about God, among so many other things, is that He is faithful.  Even if we deny Him, He's still faithful.  He cannot deny who He is.  I oftentimes wonder if His delaying in answering prayers is because folks aren't faithful to Him.  Paul told us that if we deny Him, He will deny us ( 2 Timothy 2:12).  The psalmist said, "I will sing of the mercies of the LORD for ever: with my mouth will I make known thy faithfulness to all generations. For I have said, Mercy shall be built up for ever: thy faithfulness shalt thou establish in the very heavens" (Psalms 89:1-2).  He said that God is faithful and he's going to proclaim it to everyone. Solomon said: "Most men will proclaim everyone his own goodness: but a faithful man who can find" (Proverbs 20:6)?  Houston we've got a problem!  Paul again admonishes us "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful" (1 Corinthians 4:2).  Jesus said that if we are not faithful to that of another man's, who will give to us that which is our own (my wording).  If we aren't faithful to others, can we not expect to receive the same back in return (Galatians 6:7)?

Sing: He's been faithful, faithful to me. Looking back His love and mercy I see.  In my heart, I have questioned, even failed to believe, yet He's been faithful, faithful to me.

Thought for Today: You do reap what you sow! 

2015 July 7 - Morning Manna

And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter. And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him. And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity. And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man. Thus saith the LORD God of Israel, I anointed thee king over Israel, and I delivered thee out of the hand of Saul; And I gave thee thy master's house, and thy master's wives into thy bosom, and gave thee the house of Israel and of Judah; and if that had been too little, I would moreover have given unto thee such and such things. Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the LORD, to do evil in his sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and hast slain him with the sword of the children of Ammon. Now therefore the sword shall never depart from thine house; because thou hast despised me, and hast taken the wife of Uriah the Hittite to be thy wife. Thus saith the LORD, Behold, I will raise up evil against thee out of thine own house, and I will take thy wives before thine eyes, and give them unto thy neighbour, and he shall lie with thy wives in the sight of this sun. For thou didst it secretly: but I will do this thing before all Israel, and before the sun. And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the LORD. And Nathan said unto David, The LORD also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die.
(2 Samuel 12:1-13)

Today's Morsel: One of the things about willfully sinning, is that it is usually hard to recover from once it is exposed.  Even though God forgives men of their sin, Satan will not.  He will continue to bring it to your mind and memory in hopes of destroying you and stopping you from ever serving God again.  Remember, Jesus said that the thief comes not but for to steal, kill, and destroy; but He (Jesus) came that we might have life.  Paul lets us know that there is no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus, those who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit.  Once God forgives us, we must walk in the Spirit so that we will not fulfill the lust of our flesh.  Our flesh will desire us to keep sinning because our sins were exposed.  But Isaiah said that God will keep us in perfect peace if our minds stay upon God (Isaiah 26:3).  John tells us that if we confess our sins, God is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (1 John 1:9).  It's always better to confess our sins to God than to wait and have them be exposed by others.  Don't ever think failure is fatal, it isn't if you are willing to repent.

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

Thought for Today:  Failure is only fatal if you aren't willing to repent.

2015 July 6 - Morning Manna

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 6:13-14)

Today's Morsel: I've come to realize that the reason most people quit serving God is because they fail to gain an understanding of God's word. They hear of God's promises, but many do not have the patience to wait for them.  When God told Abraham to leave home and He would bless him, like so many of us, Abraham was looking for the bigger things instead of the smaller things of God's blessing.  Abraham had an entourage of things (that some would call a train of stuff), and people behind him. And yet, he looked for one thing as being blessed, a son of him and Sarah. Why don't we get excited about the little things that God does for us. Why don't we get excited about the church that provides the $10 offering to help as much as we do about the church that gives the $15,000.  Isn't God in the little just as much as He is in the big?  God just told Abraham I will bless you, not with what.  Let me warn you, don't pack your bags and leave the church because you don't think you have received what God has promised you.  His ways and thoughts are far above ours, and so His promises are much more than we can often comprehend.   

Sing: Little is much when God is in it, labor not for wealth or fame. There's a crown and you win it, if you go in Jesus name!

Thought for Today: Fear not little flock, it is your fathers good pleasure to give you the kingdom!

2015 July 4 - Morning Manna

For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if any man build upon this foundation gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, stubble; Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's work of what sort it is. If any man's work abide which he hath built thereupon, he shall receive a reward. If any man's work shall be burned, he shall suffer loss: but he himself shall be saved; yet so as by fire.
(1 Corinthians 3:11-15)

Today's Morsel:  Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a Federal holiday in the United States to celebrate the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from Great Britain.  Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, family reunions, and political speeches and ceremonies, in addition to various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States.  Notice, this day  it will be celebrated by fireworks.  Paul said that our works will be tested by fire. Peter tells us that our faith will be tested by fire (1 Peter 1:7-9).  And so I conclude that the fire still works. The fire of the Holy Ghost still has the ability to free man from his sin.  It still has the power to remove anything that isn't like Jesus from your life.  John the Baptist said of Jesus, "I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire" (Matthew 3:11).  If you are born again, aren't you glad that the fire still works.

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

Thought for Today:  The Holy Ghost fire still works!

2015 July 3 - Morning Manna

But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.
(Hebrews 6:9-10)

Today's Morsel: Most people looking for a job usually look for the benefit package that comes with it.  Does it provide insurance?  Does it provide workmen's comp. Does it offer vacation time and sick leave; health care benefits and a retirement plan.  Most people fail to realize that Jesus gives us these benefits in His salvation plan and yet people will not work for Him.  David wrote, "Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's" (Psalms 103:2-5).  And he also said, "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah" (Psalms 68:19).  If God daily loadeth us with benefits, shouldn't we want to work for Him. In writing to the Hebrews, Paul that he was persuaded ofbetter things of them because of the things that came with their salvation.  When an employer hires you for a job, he expects a good honest day's work for the benefits they provide you.  The same holds true with Jesus.  He saved you and therefore you should be willing to give Him an honest day's work for your benefits He is giving you.  Working for Jesus may not seem as though it pays much in this present world, but the retirement benefits are out of this world.

Sing: Jesus use me, oh Lord, don't refuse me; for surely there's a work that I can do. And even though it's humble, Lord help my will to crumble, though the cost be great, I'll work for You!

Thought for Today: Looking for a job, Jesus is still hiring!

2015 July 2 - Morning Manna

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself. But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another. For every man shall bear his own burden. Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things. Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting. And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. 

(Galatians 6:1-10)

 

Today's Morsel: It seems as though many are burdened today with the cares of life and carrying around a heavy load.  I don't understand why they don't allow Jesus to help them carry their load.  But for some unknown reason, they choose to use humans to try and help them with their loads.  If that weight is too heavy for you, then it may even be heavy for the two of us to carry together; but not Jesus.  Anyhow, I do like to help people carry their burdens, but I refuse to help them carry them if they refuse to listen.  If someone is heavy and we know how to make that load lighter, should we not use that method to lighten the load?  A refrigerator is carried easier on a dolly than on your back, so it would be foolish not to use it.  If Jesus is the antidote for the troubled mind, should we not go to Him.  If His word gives us hope, should we not read it and obey it?  I am not a rocket scientist, but if you tell me how to do something easier that is not illegal or immoral, and a way that in the end state that will make me better and give me what I need and want, than that is the method I will use.  If my pastor tells me what to do to fix my problem and it is not illegal or immoral and it aligns with the word of God that is the method I will use every time. 

Sing: In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus, we have the victory.  In the name of Jesus, in the name of Jesus, Satan will have to flee.  Tell me who can stand before us, when we call on His great name.  Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus!  We have the victory!

Thought for Today:  Casting all your care upon Him for He careth for you.  1 Peter 5:7 

2015 July 1 - Morning Manna

O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that stretched out the earth above the waters: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that made great lights: for his mercy endureth for ever: The sun to rule by day: for his mercy endureth for ever: The moon and stars to rule by night: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him that smote Egypt in their firstborn: for his mercy endureth for ever: And brought out Israel from among them: for his mercy endureth for ever: With a strong hand, and with a stretched out arm: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which divided the Red sea into parts: for his mercy endureth for ever: And made Israel to pass through the midst of it: for his mercy endureth for ever: But overthrew Pharaoh and his host in the Red sea: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which led his people through the wilderness: for his mercy endureth for ever. To him which smote great kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: And slew famous kings: for his mercy endureth for ever: Sihon king of the Amorites: for his mercy endureth for ever: And Og the king of Bashan: for his mercy endureth for ever: And gave their land for an heritage: for his mercy endureth for ever: Even an heritage unto Israel his servant: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever: And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever. Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever. O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever" (Psalms 136:1-26).

Today's Morsel: What a psalm.  The psalmist calls for us to give God thanks because of His mercy.  If we don't understand the mercy of God, we have missed the boat.  Every morning His mercy is renewed toward us (Lamentations 3:22-24).  And because of His loving-kindness and tender mercies we can obtain forgiveness for our wrong.  Do you need mercy today?  Than thank Him for His goodness toward you.  Gratitude must always be our heart's attitude.

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: God remembers us in our lowest estate, so we will praise Him in our high estate.