Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 30

 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

(1 Timothy 2:9-10)

Today’s Morsel:  There are those who say that we are not saved by our works.  No, your initial salvation isn’t by works, it is by God's grace. But once you become a born again believer, your good works must be in operation in your life.  Paul told Timothy that he was to teach women to adorn themselves in modest apparel… with that attire that make them become women professing godliness with good works (Emphasis mine).  You see godliness with contentment is great gain. The Christian life, with good works, reflects Christ in you.  The best ornaments for those who profess godliness is good works.  I have, as well as many others, an office filled with plaques that were given to me for my good works.  How much more as a Christian?   Should not our lives reflect good works for Christ?  James said, “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works” (James 2:17-18).  No we are not saved by works, but they do help us reach our eternal reward.  Good works always produce good character.

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

Thought For Today: Good works always produce good character.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 29

Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1)

Today’s Morsel: Holiness is about separation.  Many have trouble reaching this point because they do not want to crossover or come out from their old way of life.  Many fail to realize that when God called them, He was calling them to lead.  He was not calling them to be a follower of wrong, but to lead others to a state of righteousness.  If those who are being called by God would realize their purpose, they could see the value of God’s power working in their lives.  When we separate ourselves unto God for His purpose, we move unto holiness and perfection.  Perfection is holiness and holiness is perfection. Completeness in Him will help us to become perfect.  Separation unto Him will cause us to be content and become holy.  Yet it all begins with us knowing that He has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light and one separating themselves for His purpose.  The only way Abraham could receive the promise was that He had to separate himself unto God.

Sing: Jesus use me, O’ 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: Promises are only given to those who are obedient and separated unto God. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 28

I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. (1 Timothy 2:8)

Today’s Morsel:  Under the gospel, prayers are not to be confined to any one particular house or place of prayer, but men are to pray everywhere.  We must pray in our closets, pray in and with our families, pray at our meals, pray when we are on journeys, and pray in the solemn assemblies, whether in public or in private.  We must pray in love; without wrath, without malice,  and without anger against any. We must pray in faith, without doubting, and without disputing.  Paul said that men ought to pray everywhere.  Jesus said that if men pray they would not faint (Luke 18:1).  Just a few moments on one’s knees or with their hands raised can change a person's life or the life of others.  As the psalmist said, “Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!” (Psalms 107:8).

Sing:  Whisper a prayer in the morning, whisper a prayer at noon, whisper a prayer in the evening, oh keep your heart in tune.

Thought For Today: “Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!”

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 27

Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. (John 8:31-32)

Today’s Morsel: Solomon admonishes us that righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is the reproach to any people (Proverbs 14:34). “Justice, reigning in a nation, puts an honor upon it.  A righteous administration of the government, impartial equity between man and man, public countenance given to religion, the general practice and profession of virtue, the protecting and preserving of virtuous men, charity and compassion to strangers (alms are sometimes called righteousness), these exalt a nation; they uphold the throne, elevate the people's minds, and qualify a nation for the favor of God, which will make them high, as a holy nation” (Pulpit Commentary).  I therefore conclude that the absence of truth takes away righteousness. You cannot have morals without truth.  Where there is no truth, there are no ethics.  There are no standards for living.  And there are no principles of life.  Jesus said that you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.  Once we know Jesus, or are known of Him, as He is the Truth, it should cause us to do what is right at all times and at all cost.  Being bound is no life for a Christian.  Especially, since Jesus has made a way of liberty for us.

Sing: Glory! Glory! Hallelujah. Glory! Glory! Hallelujah. Glory! Glory! Hallelujah. His truth is marching on.

Thought For Today: Being bound is no life for a Christian. Especially, since Jesus has made a way of liberty for us.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 26

And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague. (Mark 5:25-34)

Today’s Morsel: The story of the woman with the issue of blood is more about faith and determination than anything else.  Her story should inspire others to put their trust in Christ for their healing.  She went to the doctors but only got worse.  She sought help from others and didn't find it.  But when someone told her about Jesus, she said  to herself that if I can but touch His clothes I shall be made whole. And when she touched Him it was not just an ordinary touch.  It was a touch of faith.  She had built her faith to believe that once she touched Him she would be made completely whole.  And when she touched Him, Jesus said, "Who touched my clothes?"  An interesting comment. Not who touched me, but who touched my clothes?  Even Jesus' clothes possessed enough power to heal others.  Peter’s shadow had power to heal.   Paul sent aprons and handkerchiefs so that others could be healed.  What about us?  Do we possess the power within our clothes to heal?  Aaron’s garment was holiness unto the Lord. The spirit within us should cause those who touch our garments to be changed within themselves as well.  

Sing: Holy! Holy! Holy; Holy! Holy! Holy; Holy is the Lord, God Almighty.  He’s worth to receive glory, worthy to receive honor, worthy to receive all our praise today.

Thought For Today:  The spirit within us, should cause those who touch our garments to be changed within themselves.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 25

When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, (Though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disciples,) He left Judaea, and departed again into Galilee. And he must needs go through Samaria.
(John 4:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: Ever​y so often when traveling, I like to take detours to see what I can ​come upon that I haven’t seen ​ before​, or visit people that I haven’t seen in a while.  Scripture says that Jesus must needs go through Samaria. We know that 

​He talked with the woman at the well and explained to her the truth of the gospel, and that many others came to know ​Him as Christ, but what was the real need there?  I believe ​He took this detour because of the division between the Jews and Samaritans. ​It is my thought  that Jesus knew that if He didn’t break down the middle walls of partition between the Jews and Gentiles while ​He was on the earth by showing others that ​He was no respecter of persons, ​H​is disciple ​might not carry the full truth of ​ the gospel to others. We are all called to make a difference in the lives of someone else.   But if we have respect of persons in our heart​,​

 we ​won't share the gospel with them, leaving them without hope and help.  The detour that you have to take today may be God’s way of saying to you​, "Someone on this route needs to hear the gospel.​"​

Sing: ​Where he leads me I will follow! Where he leads me I will follow! Where he leads me I will follow! I’ll go with him all the way.

Thought ​For ​Today: The detour that you have to take today may be because someone needs to hear the gospel. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 23

And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples followed him. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves: but he was asleep. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is this, that even the winds and the sea obey him! (Matthew 8:23-27)

Today’s Morsel:  About two years ago, I read an article that the North Korean President told his weather forecasters that the next time they got the weather reporting wrong that he would have them killed. The Bible says, Jesus and His disciples entered into a ship and when they were in the sea and Jesus was in the hinder part of the ship asleep, there arose a great tempest in the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves.  His disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying, Lord, save us: we perish.  And He said unto them, Why are ye fearful, O ye of little faith?  Then He arose, and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.  Sometimes, even when we are doing the will of God and following Jesus, there are going to be unexpected storms in our life.  Things are going to happen that we were not expecting to take place.  Some of these storms, like the disciples, are going to cause us to feel as though we are going to perish. Yet this story is about maintaining our faith in the storms of life.  If Satan can shake your faith in the storm, he’ll shake your faith in distress.  So settle it now in your heart, that you won’t lose faith in the storms when they come.

Sing: There’s a storm out on the ocean and it’s moving this away, if your soul's not anchored in Jesus, you will surely drift away.

Thought For Today: Settle it now in your heart, that you won’t lose faith in the storm (Parker).

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 22

Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. (1 Corinthians 15:51-58)

Today’s Morsel:  I like mystery movies.  Sherlock Holmes. Murder She Wrote. I like playing the game called “Clue”.  I even like searching through the Bible for mysteries.  Even Paul told Timothy that godliness was a mystery. “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory” (1 Timothy 3:16).  I believe that one of the reasons that many Christians don’t know that Jesus is God is because they will not search the scripture to find the answer.  If it’s a mystery, then you have to search for the answer.  Jesus told us: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life” (John 5:39-40).  Eternal life is in Him.  Perhaps that is the reason so many people aren’t 100% committed to God, because they don’t know who He is.  I also believe, that if people would search the scripture to know God, death wouldn’t be such a mystery to them, and many wouldn’t fear it. Paul said, “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” So how are we changed? We will take off this old tabernacle and put on a new one in Heaven. “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens” (2 Corinthians 5:1).  Have you searched out any mysteries lately?  The greatest mystery you will ever solve is to know who Jesus is.

Sing: The Mighty God is Jesus, The Prince of Peace is He. The Everlasting Father, The King Eternally, The Wonderful in Wisdom, by whom all things were made, the fullness of the Godhead in Jesus is displayed.

Thought For Today: The greatest mystery you will ever solve is to know who Jesus is. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 21

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. The LORD hath chastened me sore: but he hath not given me over unto death. Open to me the gates of righteousness: I will go into them, and I will praise the LORD: This gate of the LORD, into which the righteous shall enter. I will praise thee: for thou hast heard me, and art become my salvation. The stone which the builders refused is become the head stone of the corner. This is the LORD'S doing; it is marvellous in our eyes. This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity. Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD. God is the LORD, which hath shewed us light: bind the sacrifice with cords, even unto the horns of the altar. Thou art my God, and I will praise thee: thou art my God, I will exalt thee. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. (Psalms 118:14-29)

Today’s Morsel: I’m sure most of you can remember the day of your graduation.  Whether from school, basic training, or some other class you looked forward to that day.  You anticipated the day.  You probably had a hard time sleeping the night before.  You probably wondered if you would make a mistake crossing the stage.  No matter what your thoughts, you looked forward to the day.  The psalmist wrote, “This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” So if this is the day that the Lord has made, and if we should rejoice and be glad in it, why do we focus on yesterday?  Why do we worry about what someone said or what someone did to us yesterday?  It’s over and done, it is gone.  Today is a new gift from God.  So let's move on, let’s rejoice and be glad in today.

Sing:  This is the day, this is the day that the Lord has made, that the Lord has made!  I will rejoice, I will rejoice and be glad in it, and be glad in it.  This is the day that the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.  This is the day, this is the day, that the Lord has made.

Thought For Today:  Today is a new gift from God!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 20

Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweetsmelling savour. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

Today’s Morsel:  Probably my favor scent is Honeydew Melon.  I also like the smell of “Beyond Paradise” that my wife wears.  When I was living in Asia, you always smelled the different smells of incense.  Many of them were used in sacrifice in the temples and personal worship and sacrifices to Buddha.  One of the pieces of furniture in the temple was the brazen altar of incense.  The priest was to present incense for a sweet smell with the sacrifices unto the Lord.  Paul said that we would follow Jesus' example, “And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savour.”  As living sacrifices, we should always have a sweet savour - a sweet disposition to God and others.

Sing:  Make me an instrument, an instrument of worship, I lift my hands to Thy name.  All glory and honor to Jesus forever, I lift up my hands to Thy name.

Thought For Today:  We should always have a sweet disposition to God and others. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 19

Then said the high priest, Are these things so? And he said, Men, brethren, and fathers, hearken; The God of glory appeared unto our father Abraham, when he was in Mesopotamia, before he dwelt in Charran, And said unto him, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee.
(Acts 7:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: Some of my favorite subjects in school were U. S. History, World History, and Political Science.  Even today, I find myself studying Biblical and Military History.  So I guess I just love history.  Really, the Bible is not only a book to teach us character and salvation, but it’s also a history book.  If people would read Biblical and world history, they would see the dogma error of evolution and false religions.  Acts chapter 7 is a Biblical History Lesson given by Stephen to the religious leaders and the apostle Paul.  Even though they killed Stephen for his lesson to them, this lesson would prove valuable to the apostle Paul in years to come when he was converted to Christianity. He wrote to Timothy, “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust. And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting. Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever. Amen” (1 Timothy 1:11-17).  Though some may try, you can’t change history.  Jesus Christ the same, yesterday, today, and forever.

Sing:  All over the world, the Spirit is moving, all over the world, like the prophets said it would be; all over the world, there’s a mighty revelation, of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.

Thought For Today:  You can’t change history! (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 18

Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

(Matthew 6:19-21)

Today’s Morsel: I’ve noticed that a lot of people no longer see the importance and value of church.  Many seem to see church as a nice to do thing, but not something that they really need to go do if they feel something else is more important. What I find is that those who say such things have not invested in the Kingdom of God. They have no treasure in the house of God. They don’t tithe, so church isn’t important to them. They don’t teach, so church isn’t important to them. They aren’t involved in helping the church grow, so it’s not important to them. Jesus said where your treasure is that is where your heart will be also. How much do you have invested in your church?

Sing: Aren’t you get just a bit tired of fooling around? You try to laugh your way through life but you’re not gaining ground; why not try the Lord today, just asking him in your heart to stay, and you’ll find Jesus’ love to be the be the greatest thing you’ve even found.

Thought For Today: Where your treasure is there will your heart be also. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 16

Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go: Lest thou learn his ways, and get a snare to thy soul. (Proverbs 22:24-25)

Today’s Morsel:  When we were kids living it the country, during the winter, we would make traps to capture rabbits for food.  It was a pretty easy trap to make.  And by putting a little enticing bait of an onion or carrot on the front of the trap and placing the reminder inside the trap, the rabbit would go in after it and become trapped inside.  People who join gangs are those who learn the ways of an angry man. They become friends with them not realizing that it will soon become a snare to their souls.  Many are now trapped behind bars because they befriended angry men.  Therefore, my beloved friends, make sure your friends.  Make sure they are not angry men.  Make sure they are not those who will cause you to lose your soul.  If you make Jesus your number one friend, He’ll keep you from angry men.

Sing: I am a friend of God! I am a friend of God; He calls me friend.

Thought For Today:  Making Jesus your number one friend will keep you from make friendship with an angry man.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 15

For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny a day, he sent them into his vineyard. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others standing idle in the marketplace, And said unto them; Go ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give you. And they went their way. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and did likewise. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the day idle? They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive. So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, beginning from the last unto the first. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh hour, they received every man a penny. But when the first came, they supposed that they should have received more; and they likewise received every man a penny.
(Matthew 20:1-10)

Today’s Morsel: When I was young, I could not wait until I was old enough to get my first job and make my own money.  That day came and I was making 25 cents per hour carrying sticks.  Then as I grew older, others began to hire me and my wages increased.  I was once asked by a young man what my job was.  He didn’t see being a pastor as a job.  I pondered that question and even today I ponder it, because many do not see the ministry as a job.  The ministry should not be seen as a job, but an adventure.  It should not be seen as employment, but a way of life.  Jesus said that the kingdom of heaven was like unto a man that is an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.  When you receive the Holy Ghost, it’s not a time to be idle, but a time to labor.  It not a time to complain about your wages, but a time to share truth.  If you are laboring for Jesus, it’s not about the money, it’s  about the kingdom.  Who are you working for?  If you are working for the Lord, you are a rich person.

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

Thought For Today:  Working for Jesus may not pay much, but the retirement benefits are out of this world.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 14

For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come. 

(1 Corinthians 11:23-26)

Today’s Morsel:  I often ponder on the Last Supper that Jesus had with His disciples.  I wonder what they talked about and what He shared with them.  After three years with Him, what questions did they ask now?  What was on the dinner table for their meal?  What reminders did He give them?  Did He rehearse with them as Moses had done with the children of Israel before they went into the promise land?  We do know Paul said, “That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.”  He explained the purpose of communion to them.  When you take communion, do you remember Jesus?  Does it draw you closer to Him? Does it make you do a self-examination to ensure you are living the way that He wants you to live?  For me, communion is not a block checker.  It’s a time of remembrance of what the Lord has done for me, and I don’t have to do that every day because His creation and word are daily reminds me of this to me.  And so I offer unto Him the sacrifices of praise continually with the fruits of my lips giving Him thanks.  Yet the time of communion is a special time, one that Jesus said should be done in remembrance of His sacrifice.  We can be thankful for the sweet communion we have with our Savior.

Sing:  Lord, I lift my spirit, to Your Spirit, in holy sweet communion. And I sense Your Holy Presence, as I draw nearer; Lord I lift my spirit to You!

Thought For Today: Communion is just a sweet reminder of His love (Parker). 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 13

Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 

(1 Peter 5:6-7)

Today’s Morsel:  In today’s world, so many things can burden us. Sickness, ill health, divorce, children, coworkers, employers, employees, leaders, and even death.  These things can weigh us down and render us ineffective in the things that we need and want to do. When we have no joy or energy for what we must do, we can lose hope and go into a state of depression.  Peter tells us to cast all of our cares upon the Lord because He cares for us.  Therefore, we must take our burdens to Jesus and leave them there.  The way you leave them there is when you rise from prayer at your personal altar, you purpose to not focus on those things that once burdened you.  You now must follow Paul’s advice and, “Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage” (Galatians 5:1).  Allow Jesus to carry your burden, He is much stronger than you are.  

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

Thought For Today:   Jesus is the burden bearer. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 12

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates. And it shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land which he sware unto thy fathers, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, to give thee great and goodly cities, which thou buildedst not, And houses full of all good things, which thou filledst not, and wells digged, which thou diggedst not, vineyards and olive trees, which thou plantedst not; when thou shalt have eaten and be full; Then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage. Thou shalt fear the LORD thy God, and serve him, and shalt swear by his name. (Deuteronomy 6:4-13).

Today’s Morsel:  Today I wonder why it seems that so many are forgetful?  I hear people all the time saying, “Oh I forgot.”  There have been times when I will say to someone, “Oh I didn’t see you at church or at the event that was held.”  And they will say, “Oh, I forgot!”  Are people really forgetful, or is it that they just don’t care?  Moses didn't want the children of Israel to go and forget what the Lord had done for them.  So he rehearsed with them the entire book of Deuteronomy so that they would remember.  He told them first of all, don’t forget that there is but “One God” and he told them that they must teach this to their children.  He showed them that it would be easy for them to forget God when they came into the land of plenty.   And therefore, they must be aware of it so that they would not forget God.  Paul told the Hebrews, “And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth” (Hebrews 12:5-6).  He said that God corrects His children, and don’t forget it.   They were not to think for one moment that God did not love them because they were being corrected by Him.  Let me encourage you today, regardless of how good or how bad it gets, don’t forget God. Jesus said, “For without me you can do nothing”  (John 15:5).  When we forget God, we lose all meaning of life.

Sing:  Take the name of Jesus with you, child of sorrow and of woe; it will joy and comfort give you, take it then, wherever you go.

Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heaven. Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heaven.

Thought For Today: Don’t forget God!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 16

Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again. And they remembered his words, (Luke 24:1-8)

Today’s Morsel: I sometimes wonder why we humans mourn and are sad at the report of death.  Yes, we hate to see those that we love depart, but shouldn’t we rejoice?  The Bible tells us that precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of saints (Psalms 116:15).  Those who were close to Christ at His death were saddened, too.  Jesus had told them that He would die, but it was hard for them to grasp.  How could the One who done so much good to and for so many be put to death? His disciples probably felt as though they would now be ridiculed for following what some had called a fake or a con man.  But they had forgotten and failed to grasp that Jesus told them He would die, be buried, and even that He would rise again.  And when the angels told them that He was risen they were still perplexed.  One of the things about serving Jesus is, if you fail to understand His words, there will be sadness at death.  But if you grasp the meaning of His words, then there will be joy unspeakable and even that time of loss will be full of glory!

Sing:  There is a little morning outside, there’s a new beginning in the sky.  It’s been awhile but now the time is right to spread your wings and fly.  Silent heart sings a brand new song, the darkest night is just before the dawn, weary souls arise, wipe the pain from your eyes, there’s a little bit of morning outside.

Thought For Today: He’s not here, He has risen! 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 9

Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 

(Hebrews 13:5)

Today’s Morsel: Building your trust and confidence in someone or something that you cannot see can prove hard for some folks.  Some people have asked the question, “How can you believe in a God you cannot see?”  Well, most of us have never seen the people that build our cars or airplanes and yet we believe in them.  Many have never seen a supreme court justice, and yet they demonstrate in the streets because they believe that they will make the right decisions.  Many folks don’t know half the people standing around them when they are having a surgery and yet they believe in them.  So why do so many question God?  God doesn’t forsake anyone. Usually folks forsake Him. If God’s word tells us that He will not leave us nor forsake us, then those who trust Him will discover that He’s always right there.  Put your trust and confidence in a sure thing, place it in Christ.  

Sing:  Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, just to take Him at His Word; just to rest upon His promise; just to know, “Thus saith the Lord.”

Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I’ve proved Him o’er and o’er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more!

Thought For Today: Those who trust Him will discover that He’s always right there! (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 8

The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD. Hear, O LORD, when I cry with my voice: have mercy also upon me, and answer me. When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek. Hide not thy face far from me; put not thy servant away in anger: thou hast been my help; leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation. When my father and my mother forsake me, then the LORD will take me up. Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. Deliver me not over unto the will of mine enemies: for false witnesses are risen up against me, and such as breathe out cruelty. I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living. Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalms 27:1-14)

Today’s Morsel:  In his song, "What A Savior", Marvin Dalton wrote, "Once I was straying in sin’s dark valley, no hope within could I see; They searched through heaven and found a Savior to save a poor lost soul like me. Death’s chilly waters I’ll soon be crossing, His hand will lead me safe over; I’ll join the chorus in that great city, and sing up there forever more."  David’s 27^th Psalm is a psalm of salvation and deliverance.  He had found that no one could save and deliver like the God of Israel and that was where he put his trust.  Even today, no one can save and deliver like Him.  As Peter said, “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12).  Do you need a Savior today?  Turn to Jesus, He hasn't changed.  He is still a deliverer.  

Sing: O’ what a Savior, O’ Hallelujah, His heart was broken on Calvary; His hands were nail-scarred, His side was riven, He gave His life-blood for even me.

Thought For Today: Jesus still has the power to save.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 7

And again he entered into Capernaum after some days; and it was noised that he was in the house. And straightway many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door: and he preached the word unto them. And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee. But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and reasoning in their hearts, Why doth this man thus speak blasphemies? who can forgive sins but God only? And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that they so reasoned within themselves, he said unto them, Why reason ye these things in your hearts? Whether is it easier to say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say, Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk? But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the sick of the palsy,) I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way into thine house.

(Mark 2:1-11)

Today’s Morsel: In today’s world, many, and even many in the church, have lost focus of sin.  We don’t hear much about calling people a sinner or explaining to them what sin really is any more. People seem to be afraid of addressing the sin issue.  And when some do, to justify their comment, for fear of offending, they say, “We are all sinners.”  Well, if that is the case, then who is saved if we are all sinners?  Do we not teach that Acts 2:38 is for the remission of sins? Do we not teach that God will not dwell in an unclean temple?  So if we are all still sinners, then Jesus died for nothing.  Paul said that you who were dead in your trespasses and sins hath He quickenth together with Him (Ephesian 2:1), and in Romans 6:1 he said that we should not continue in sin, because the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23).  When Jesus forgave men and women of their sins in the Bible, He told them to go and to sin no more.  So once we have been forgiven of our sins, if we continue to sin, then a worse thing can happen to us. As Jesus told the man he healed at the pool of Bethesda. Go and sin no more lest a worse thing happen to you (John 5:1-10). Friend, if your sins have been forgiven, and you have been baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins, then don’t tell people that you are still a sinner, it will destroy your witness and discredit Jesus.  We were sinners, but now are we children of God.  He has washed our sins away!

Sing:  I came to Jesus weary, worn, and sad, He took my sins away, He took my sins away.  And now His love has made my heart so glad, He took my sins away.

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

Thought For Today: The remedy for sin is Jesus (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 6

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. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. (Hebrews 6:13-20)

Today’s Morsel: I love the book of Hebrews.  What a book that encourages and enlightens us to the past, present, and future.  Most people, when asked about the Book of Hebrews, focus on Chapter 11, which many refer to as the Faith Chapter. Yet me, I get bogged down in this book because of all the encouraging stuff that is in it. “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.”  Just think about that part for a moment.  God can’t lie.  He has to fulfill His promises to us.  These words encourage us that God will come through if we will just wait.  The Rock won’t move.   Let me encourage you today, read your Bible daily and it will enrich every day.

Sing:  He is my everything, He is my all. He is my everything, both great and small.  He gave his life for me, made everything new.  He is my everything, Oh how about you?

Thought For Today: The Rock won’t move.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 5

O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth forever. Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy; And gathered them out of the lands, from the east, and from the west, from the north, and from the south. They wandered in the wilderness in a solitary way; they found no city to dwell in. Hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted in them. Then they cried unto the LORD in their trouble, and he delivered them out of their distresses. And he led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation. Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! (Psalms 107:1-8)

Today’s Morsel: Sitting around the dinner table with our GRANDs, we get to hear the ripple comment, “Thank you Papa and Meemaw for the food!”  "Thank you Poppie and Namma for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.”  Depending on which one of the GRANDs chooses to get it in first, it sends a ripple effect to the others as if to say, “Don’t forget what mom and dad has taught us and told us to say.”  Looking back, this was what my parents taught me, to always say thank you and to be thankful for what others do for me or give me.  The psalmist said that men should praise the Lord for his goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!  When we see our kids at play, we should thank the Lord.  When they are participating in the church, we should give God thanks.  When they bring home good grades from school, we should give God thanks.  When they have their own family and give us grands, we should give God thanks.  The list could go on and on for the reasons we should give God thanks.  But none should be so great than to thank Him for loving us.

Sing:  Let’s just praise the Lord!  Let’s just lift our hearts towards heaven and praise the Lord; Let’s just praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Let’s just lift our hearts towards heaven and praise the Lord!

Thought For Today: An attitude of gratitude is paramount! (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 4

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. 

(Galatians 5:1)

Today’s Morsel:  Known as the Fourth of July and Independence Day, July 4th has been a federal holiday in the United States since 1941, but the tradition of Independence Day celebrations goes back to the 18th century and the American Revolution (1775-83).  In June 1776, representatives of the 13 colonies who were then fighting in the revolutionary struggle weighed a resolution that would declare their independence from Great Britain.  On July 2nd, the Continental Congress voted in favor of independence, and two days later its delegates adopted the Declaration of Independence, a historic document drafted by Thomas Jefferson.  From 1776 until the present day, July 4th has been celebrated as the birth of American independence, with typical festivities ranging from fireworks, parades and concerts to more casual family gatherings and barbecues. (History.com)

Many have stated that America's independence from Britain was God ordained and that God had a purpose for this new nation.  America has aided and helped many in her 240 years of existence.  She has brought independence and liberty to so many others.  And today, she fights to free many from oppression and captivity.  And as long as she keeps God first, she will herself retain her independence.  And so, as you celebrate today, remember that it is really Jesus who liberates us and give us our true independence.

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

Thought For Today: Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Galatians 5:1)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 2

Help, LORD; for the godly man ceaseth; for the faithful fail from among the children of men. They speak vanity every one with his neighbour: with flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak. The LORD shall cut off all flattering lips, and the tongue that speaketh proud things: Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail; our lips are our own: who is lord over us? For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. The words of the LORD are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O LORD, thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever. The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted. (Psalms 12:1-8)

Today’s Morsel:  Often, I sit and ponder, and I ask myself, how did we as a church allow the world to get to in such a terrible state?  Yes, I know that the world has always been evil, and that evil seducers will wax worse and worse, and that this world is not our home.  But if 75 percent of the world’s population says that they believe in God, should not we have the upper hand over the world.  Oh, I know that we win in the end.  But how many will be lost in the end because the church didn’t do what it was supposed to do?  Will those who we think will be lost prevent us from entering in because we never told them about Jesus?  David cried for the Lord to help because the godly man ceased. He said when the vilest men are exalted, the wicked walk on every side. And we see this in the world today. What is your cry today?

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:  The wicked walk on every side, when the vilest men are exalted. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 July 1

I beseech you, brethren, (ye know the house of Stephanas, that it is the firstfruits of Achaia, and that they have addicted themselves to the ministry of the saints,) That ye submit yourselves unto such, and to every one that helpeth with us, and laboureth. 

(1 Corinthians 16:15-16).

Today’s Morsel:  The person addicted to drugs, alcohol, or tobacco can’t seem to get enough.   They will spend everything that they have to get that next fix, high, or drag.  We refer to them as being hooked.  And we say, that if God doesn’t deliver them, there’s really no hope for them to be set free.  Solomon said that there are four things that are never satisfied.  The grave, the barren womb, dry ground, and fire (Proverbs 30:15-16, my wording).  I wonder what would happen if every Christian would addict themselves to the ministry as the house of Stephanas did? Wouldn’t it be great if every Christian just couldn’t seem to get enough of Jesus and the work that He’s called them to?  Paul, like Stephanas' house, had addicted himself to the ministry.  He told the church “For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” (1 Corinthians 9:16).  He also told them, “What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus. And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done” (Acts 21:13-14).  We should not try to stop those who have addicted themselves to the work of the Lord.  If they want to go to the mission’s field, let them go.  If they want to witness for the Lord, let them witness.  If they want to clean the church, let them clean.   Give them clear instructions as Paul did Timothy and Titus and let them go. As General George Patton said, “Never tell a man how to do things. Tell them what needs to be done and let them surprise you with their ingenuity.”

Sing: Set a fire down in my soul, that I can’t contain that I can’t control, I want more of You God, I want more of You God.

Thought For Today: Shouldn’t every Christian be addicted to the things of God? (Parker)