Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 30

I communed with mine own heart, saying, Lo, I am come to great estate, and have gotten more wisdom than all they that have been before me in Jerusalem: yea, my heart had great experience of wisdom and knowledge. And I gave my heart to know wisdom, and to know madness and folly: I perceived that this also is vexation of spirit. For in much wisdom is much grief: and he that increaseth knowledge increaseth sorrow. (Ecclesiastes 1:16-18)

Today’s Morsel:  Solomon speaks a lot about wisdom.  Solomon sought wisdom.  But what he found was that worldly wisdom causes grief.  And more knowledge of the world causes sorrow.  The more we know of this world, the more we realize its demise and hardships and there isn’t a lot that we can do about it.  James tells us, “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom. But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth. This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish. For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work. 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. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace” (James 3:13-18).  When we search and find the wisdom of God, we find life and obtain favor of Him.

Sing:  How great is our God, how great is His name.  He’s the greatest one, forever the same.  He rolled back the water, of the mighty Red Sea, and He said I want to lead you, so put your trust in me.

Thought For Today: Wisdom is known of her children.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 29

But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of thee, and of thine own have we given thee. For we are strangers before thee, and sojourners, as were all our fathers: our days on the earth are as a shadow, and there is none abiding. O LORD our God, all this store that we have prepared to build thee an house for thine holy name cometh of thine hand, and is all thine own. I know also, my God, that thou triest the heart, and hast pleasure in uprightness. As for me, in the uprightness of mine heart I have willingly offered all these things: and now have I seen with joy thy people, which are present here, to offer willingly unto thee. O LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and of Israel, our fathers, keep this for ever in the imagination of the thoughts of the heart of thy people, and prepare their heart unto thee: And give unto Solomon my son a perfect heart, to keep thy commandments, thy testimonies, and thy statutes, and to do all these things, and to build the palace, for the which I have made provision. (1 Chronicles 29:14-19)

Today’s Morsel:  I’m sure you’ve heard the jest about the man telling God that he could make anything that God did.  And that he could make man, too.  And when God told him to go first, the man reached down to get some dirt.  God said, "Wait, what are you doing, that’s mine. Go make your own dirt” (a little humor to start our day).  We know that David prayed a lot when we read scripture, and today's passage is included.  But what I like about this prayer is that David lets us know that everything we have comes from God.  He said in Psalms 24, “The earth is the LORD'S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein” (Psalms 24:1).  Everything belongs to God. Nothing we have belongs to us.  “For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine. If I were hungry, I would not tell thee: for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof” (Psalms 50:10-12).  Let me encourage you, learn how to be grateful when things come your way and when things are going good for you. Remember all comes from God.  Learn to tithe on everything that God gives you and He’ll give you more.  Develop an attitude of gratitude.

Sing:  I’m Yours, Lord, everything I am, everything I’m not, everything I’ve got. I’m Yours, Lord, try me now and see, see if I can be completely Yours.

Thought For Today: You belong to God.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 28

Now the Philistines gathered together their armies to battle, and were gathered together at Shochoh, which belongeth to Judah, and pitched between Shochoh and Azekah, in Ephesdammim. And Saul and the men of Israel were gathered together, and pitched by the valley of Elah, and set the battle in array against the Philistines. And the Philistines stood on a mountain on the one side, and Israel stood on a mountain on the other side: and there was a valley between them. And there went out a champion out of the camp of the Philistines, named Goliath, of Gath, whose height was six cubits and a span. And he had an helmet of brass upon his head, and he was armed with a coat of mail; and the weight of the coat was five thousand shekels of brass. And he had greaves of brass upon his legs, and a target of brass between his shoulders. And the staff of his spear was like a weaver's beam; and his spear's head weighed six hundred shekels of iron: and one bearing a shield went before him. (1 Samuel 17:1-7)

Today’s Morsel:  A few weeks ago, our revival evangelist preached a message entitled, “I Fired My Shield Bearer.”  He was citing that there comes a time that every one of us have to get to the point where we learn to fight our own battles and develop our own faith, not depending on someone else to do it for us.  That is so true.  If we, the church, keep giving handouts, and pampering saints of God and not making them responsible for their actions, and helping them mature in Christ, we are setting them up for failure.  As big as Goliath was, he still needed a shield bearer.  Goliath was afraid of Israel.  Even though he was larger in size, he was still afraid.  If not, he wouldn’t have needed a shield bearer.  But David, on the other hand, was not afraid. “Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied. This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel. And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:45-47).  Do you think that it’s time for you to fire your shield bearer, that person you are trying to ride along with?  He’s not doing you any good anyhow.

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

Thought For Today: Get rid of your shield bearer and trust God for the victory!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 27

Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. (Hebrews 10:7)

Today’s Morsel:  For humor, I like to tell people that when Paul said in Romans 16:17, to greet Rufus chosen in the Lord, he was referring to me.  Do you ever look for yourself in the Bible?  There are many times I have had people say to me after I’ve preached, “That was for me.” “That passage of scripture reflects where I am right now in my life.” The writer of Hebrews said that I come in the volume of the book written of me.  Yes, I know that this passage is referring to Christ Jesus, but think about it for a moment.  Don’t you think that Jesus knew what you would face in life?  Don’t you think that He knew that you would encounter hardships and calamities during this life time?  If the Bible is Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth, do you not think that He would put in His word for you the ways to learn how to troubleshoot your life for correction?  If you are going to learn how to do the will of God, then you need to learn how to be able to find yourself in The Book.  The Bible was written for you.

Sing:  He’s changing me, my Blessed Savior, I’m not the same person that I used to be.  Well it’s been slow going, but there’s a knowing, that someday perfect I will be.

Thought For Today: The Bible was written for you (Parker).

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 26

Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned: (For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law. Nevertheless death reigned from Adam to Moses, even over them that had not sinned after the similitude of Adam's transgression, who is the figure of him that was to come. But not as the offence, so also is the free gift. For if through the offence of one many be dead, much more the grace of God, and the gift by grace, which is by one man, Jesus Christ, hath abounded unto many. (Romans 5:12-15)

Today’s Morsel: One of the first things that most people learn about driving is where the brakes are and their purpose.  Granted, some in their learning find out after they have run through the garage, or into another car, or over something before they learn where the brake pedal is.  But just one accident and they know where it is and they know its purpose.  That being the case, why can’t we learn how to put the brakes on sin?  Why can’t we just stop it?  Why can’t we bring it to a halt?  We have the power within us.  Paul said that sin entered by one man into the world and death by the sin (my wording).  Isn’t it amazing that he doesn’t say that it was by one woman’s sin, but by one man’s sin?  You see, Adam had the power to put the brakes on sin.  He knew what God had said, but he chose to eat the forbidden fruit with his wife.  If Adam had stayed clear, I believe God would have dealt with Eve for her sin. But because Adam sinned, then they both had to be punished.  And it was because of Adam that sin entered the world and death passed unto all men.  If we want to stop sin, every man has to put the brakes on. Do you know where the brake pedal is?  Repentance is the best way to put the brakes on.

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

Thought For Today:  Repentance is the best way to put the brakes on sin. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 24

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.

(1 Peter 2:9-12)

Today’s Morsel:  How many times would you say that you have heard someone quote 1 Peter 2:9? “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light.”   What do you do when you hear it?  Do you examine yourself to see if you are living your life as it states?  Honorable living is one of those things that we must strive for if we are going to see Christ. To be called out of this world by Christ for a chosen purpose isn't something we can take lightly.  God chose us the same way that He did Israel, to reflect Him in this earth before others.  We were not a part of God’s family.  But He chose us to become a part.  He adopted us and put His Spirit in us so that we would become His sons and daughters. And now, we must reflect our Heavenly Father and His ways in our life.   Are you living honorably for your Father?

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

Thought For Today: Are you living honorably? 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 23

Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
(Philippians 4:4-9)

Today’s Morsel:  Every so often, I just like to sit and ponder on God and His goodness to me. As I look back over my life, I can see just how God has been so good to me.  I think on my childhood and the fun times playing ball in the yard on a Sunday evening with family and friends.  Working the fields, learning how to farm; or how to cook, wash and iron beside my mom.  I think about the spankings in school, fishing, and hunting.  The list could go on.  These are the things I feel that Paul may have been referring to.  Those things that were true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of a good report.  When we focus on the things of God, we will see just how good God has been to us.  And it causes us to rejoice in the Lord always.  

Sing:  You know the Lord's been good, He’s really been good. He’s been so good to me, I just can’t let Him down, I can’t let Him down, He’s really been good to me.

Thought For Today: What are you thinking on?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 22

And it came to pass, when Samuel was old, that he made his sons judges over Israel. Now the name of his firstborn was Joel; and the name of his second, Abiah: they were judges in Beersheba. And his sons walked not in his ways, but turned aside after lucre, and took bribes, and perverted judgment. Then all the elders of Israel gathered themselves together, and came to Samuel unto Ramah, And said unto him, Behold, thou art old, and thy sons walk not in thy ways: now make us a king to judge us like all the nations. But the thing displeased Samuel, when they said, Give us a king to judge us. And Samuel prayed unto the LORD. And the LORD said unto Samuel, Hearken unto the voice of the people in all that they say unto thee: for they have not rejected thee, but they have rejected me, that I should not reign over them. (1 Samuel 8:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about leadership transition is that many people will not like the new leader coming in.  They have become accustomed to the old leader and so they will not submit or support the new one.  The children of Israel came to Samuel to ask for a king to rule over them because his sons were not walking according to the word of God.  This is a good reason to ask for someone else, if the current leaders are not holding to the standard of righteousness and truth.  But instead of asking Samuel to deal with his sons, they asked for a man such as every other nation had to lead them.  What they should have done was ask Samuel to seek God for a replacement for him and not his sons.  But because they asked for a man instead of God, God said that they were rejecting Him and not Samuel.  As Christians, we should always keep God in His rightful place.  Yes, God is our head and He is the one that rules over us, yet we must submit ourselves to those He places over us as long as they are walking according to His word, His way and His truth.

Sing:  Jesus! Jesus! You know what’s best for me.  So lead on, Jesus, I’ll go wherever You lead.

Thought For Today: Be care what you ask for, you just might get it.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 21

Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labour of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that feareth the LORD. (Psalms 128:1-4)

Today’s Morsel:  Are you blessed?  Godliness has the promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.  Again and again laid down in scriptures is an undoubted truth that those who are truly holy are truly happy.  Those whose blessed state are assured of, are such as fear the Lord and walk in His ways.  Those who have a deep reverence of God in their spirits and who show evidence of it by a regular and constant conformity to His will, will be blessed.  If we fear God and walk in His ways, all shall be well with us while we live, and even better when we die, and best of all, in eternity we will reign with Him forever, and forever.

Sing: I am blessed! I am blessed! Every day that I live I am blessed. When I wake-up in the morning, till I lay my head to rest, I am blessed, I am blessed.

Thought For Today: Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 20

Now I would not have you ignorant, brethren, that oftentimes I purposed to come unto you, (but was let hitherto,) that I might have some fruit among you also, even as among other Gentiles. I am debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise. So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also. For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them. For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse: Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, And changed the glory of the uncorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things. Wherefore God also gave them up to uncleanness through the lusts of their own hearts, to dishonour their own bodies between themselves: Who changed the truth of God into a lie, and worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator, who is blessed for ever. Amen. For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature: And likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers, Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful: Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.
(Romans 1:13-32)

Today’s Morsel:  There is no doubt in my mind we are living in a world that does not have a clear understanding of God and His word.   Our education system seems to be turning out, as my mother would say, “a bunch of educated fools.”  Is it the world’s problem, or is the church's problem? For the most part, the church has almost gone away from the word of God for personal gain and financial security.  Most of them have watered down the gospel so much that Satan can sit in their pews and feel comfortable and even saved.  Paul told the church at Rome that he did not want them to be ignorant about Jesus and the end times.  He wanted this church to know that there are going to be consequences for those who err from the truth of God’s word.   Speaking of the last days, Paul told Timothy, “Men would have a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth” (2 Timothy 3:5-7). Ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. How much do you know about Jesus?  A degree on your wall without a spiritual understanding of Christ is just a wall ornament.

Sing:  We are not ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of salvation, and it is to everyone, everyone that receives it, and to everyone, everyone that believes it, we shall have an ever-lasting life!

Thought For Today: The mind is a terrible thing to waste.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 19

I cried unto God with my voice, even unto God with my voice; and he gave ear unto me. In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah. Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search. Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more? Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore? Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies? Selah. And I said, This is my infirmity: but I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High. I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?
(Psalms 77:1-13)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about trouble is that it is going to come.  Whether our own, or those of someone else that we may have to comfort them through, we will all face times of trouble.  Asaph was no different.  Asaph asked some pretty serious questions during the trials and troubles he was going through.  He said, “In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord: my sore ran in the night, and ceased not: my soul refused to be comforted. I remembered God, and was troubled: I complained, and my spirit was overwhelmed. Selah. Thou holdest mine eyes waking: I am so troubled that I cannot speak. I have considered the days of old, the years of ancient times. I call to remembrance my song in the night: I commune with mine own heart: and my spirit made diligent search. Will the Lord cast off for ever? and will he be favourable no more? Is his mercy clean gone for ever? doth his promise fail for evermore? Hath God forgotten to be gracious? hath he in anger shut up his tender mercies?” Asaph was looking for some relief. He needed to be comforted and assured that he would be alright. And then he said, I know what I’ll do, I will remember the works of the LORD: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings. Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God? He said, I’ll go to church. I’ll go to the house of God because the ways of God are in the sanctuary. As David said, “For thou wilt not leave my soul in hell; neither wilt thou suffer thine Holy One to see corruption. Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalms 16:10-11).  Are you seeking some relief today from your trouble?  Then head to the sanctuary.  “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope” (Romans 15:4).

Sing: In the presence, of Jehovah, God Almighty, Prince of Peace, troubles vanish, hearts are mended, in the presence of the King.

Thought For Today:  Relief from trouble is always in the sanctuary (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 17

Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward. As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man; so are children of the youth. Happy is the man that hath his quiver full of them: they shall not be ashamed, but they shall speak with the enemies in the gate. (Psalms 127:3-5)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about children is if they are taught right and brought up right, on the most part, they will protect their aged parents as effectually as arrows in the hand of a warrior.  But on the other hand, if not, they can become a cross.  Something you will have to bear and want to get rid of.  Children are to be seen as a gift from God.  And how we treat that gift will determine how that gift blesses us.  It’s never the gift's fault if it does not serve its intended purpose.  It’s the recipients.

Sing:  Jesus loves the little children, all the children of the world.  Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight, Jesus loves the little children of the world.

Thought For Today:  It’s never the gift's fault if it does not serve its intended purpose.  It’s the recipients. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 16

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Today’s Morsel:  It has been stated that there is no telling what a person can accomplish if they put their mind to it.  Paul said that Jesus was able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. There is no limit with God.  Solomon said that as a man thinketh in his heart so is he (Proverbs 23:7).  I like to put a spin on it and say that if you think it, you can do it.  If we have not because we ask not, then what do you want Jesus to do for you that you haven’t asked Him yet? We have, Paul said, inside of us, “This treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7).  I believe this is why He’s able to do more than you can imagine. You have the power (the Holy Ghost) in you.  Therefore, whatever you can imagine to do, you can.

Sing:  Ah,Lord God, Thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power.  Ah, Lord God, Thou has made the heavens and the earth by Thine outstretched arm.  Nothing is too difficult for Thee, nothing is too difficult for Thee.  Nothing! Nothing! Absolutely nothing!  Nothing is too difficult for Thee.

Thought For Today: He can do more than you can imagine.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 15

And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.
(Job 42:10)

Today’s Morsel:  I’m sure most people find it somewhat hard to pray for people who have mistreated them, wronged them, or said things against them that they knew were not true.  Yet Jesus tells us to pray for them as vengeance is His and He will repay.  We have to learn not to respond in kind, but respond the way that Jesus tells us.  After the trials and facing the critical jury that Job went through with his friends, they left him in a sad state without any comfort.  God, seeing the evil approach of this evil jury, stepped in to defend Job.  He told Job’s friends, “My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath. Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job (Emphasis mine). So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job” (Job 42:7-9).  WOW!  Can you imagine having to eat that humble pie.  God has a way of doing that you know.  He told them to go to Job so Job could pray for them.  I wonder if Job was reluctant to pray for them?  No matter how others may treat us or what things they may say against us, from the Cross Jesus still sends back a prayer, “Father forgive them for they know not what they do!”

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:  Prayer still works!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 14

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.
(2 Corinthians 4:7-10)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about life is that we have to learn how to manage it.  Life is one of those things that if we let it get out of hand it can create problems for us that we may not know how to deal with.  Paul said that we are troubled on every side, yet not distressed. No matter where we go, we are going to face trials and troubles. Whether it’s our own or those of others.  But that doesn’t mean that God has not given us a way of escape from them.  As Paul said, “There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it” (1 Corinthians 10:13).  This is why we should not be distressed. We can always go to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Sing:  Grace!  Grace!  God’s Grace.  Grace that will pardon, and cleanse within.  Grace!  Grace!  God’s Grace! Grace that is greater, than all our sins.

Thought For Today: The trouble you face may be to keep you humble. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 13

And the LORD said unto Joshua, This day have I rolled away the reproach of Egypt from off you. Wherefore the name of the place is called Gilgal unto this day.

(Joshua 5:9)

Today’s Morsel:  It is amazing to me the number of people who are born again yet still struggle with the past.  Why do so many cling to the past when God has rolled their reproach off them?  Didn’t Paul tell us that if any man be in Christ that he is a new creature?  Do we not believe that our past is under the blood?  Do we not believe that Jesus wiped the slate clean?  If we truly believe it, then why are so many worrying about the past?  It’s gone.  Paul said, “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14).  Your past can only haunt you if you listen to Satan and look back.  But if we listen to Jesus and look ahead to the prize. we are made free!

Sing:  No more shackles, no more chains, no more bondage, I am free. I am free to dance; I am free to run; I am free to live for You.  I am free.

Thought For Today:  This day, Jesus  has rolled your reproach off of you.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 12

There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it. (Ecclesiastes 8:8)

Today’s Morsel: When I was in the Army, we all knew that we had an expiration time in service (ETS).  We all knew that one day we would either get out or retire.  Even today, should the Lord tarry, all of us have a set time that we will die.  And there is nothing we or anyone else can do to prevent it.   Solomon said that there is no discharge in that war.  In other words, no one can prevent it from happening.  In the military you can get a discharge and get out.  But that is not the case with death.  We all have to face it.  So since there is no discharge, what are you doing to be ready for eternity?  “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call” (Acts 2:37-39).  Salvation and maintaining a life of holiness and peace will ensure an eternal life with Jesus.  That is the preparation for death we all should be making.

Sing:  Are you ready should the Savior called today?  Would Jesus say “Well done” or “Go away”?  My home is for the pure, the vile can never stay, we shall see the King when He comes.

We shall see the King, we shall see the King, we shall see the King when He comes; He’s coming in power, we’ll hail the blessed hour, we shall see the King when He comes.

Thought For Today:  There is no discharge in that war (Solomon)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 10

Wisdom is good with an inheritance: and by it there is profit to them that see the sun. (Ecclesiastes 7:11)

Today’s Morsel:  A few days ago, I was observing the flooding in Louisiana, and a man was weeping because he had lost a lot of things that he felt were valuable to him because they had been passed down to him from his parents.  I thought to myself, There is a man that understands the value of his inheritance.  Lately, I have taken up this thing of going to estate sales and yard sales.  Not that I am wanting to buy more stuff, but I like looking at things of the past.  A lot of younger folks today do not understand the value of some of the things that their parents have handed down to them.  Many of them just see it as things their parents used.  And so it isn’t worth anything to them.  Many of them do not understand their inheritance, because they are void of wisdom.  They have no idea where it came from.  I have seen Bibles, Christian books on morals and values, and many other items that are no longer produced or made, yet they hold no value to the younger person.  Many great things that if retained and read could provide great encouragement and strength to them.  But they are being sold for a dollar at a yard sale because wisdom is missing.  What about you?  Do you understand the value of your Bible?  Do you understand the value of the things your parents have handed down to you?  “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the LORD, and find the knowledge of God” (Proverbs 2:1-5).  An inheritance without wisdom is just a thing.  But with knowledge of what it is and where it came from, it may be worth millions.

Sing: The greatest thing in all my life, is knowing You; The greatest thing in all my life, is knowing You.  I want to know You more, I want to know You more.  The greatest thing, in all my life, is knowing You.

Thought For Today:  Wisdom is good with an inheritance (Solomon)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 9

And, behold, there cometh one of the rulers of the synagogue, Jairus by name; and when he saw him, he fell at his feet, And besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter lieth at the point of death: I pray thee, come and lay thy hands on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live. (Mark 5:22-23)

Today’s Morsel:  I believe that one of the tasks we have is that of bringing Jesus to others.  I believe that when we are requested to go to the hospital to pray for others, or to go to someone’s home to pray for them, we are taking Jesus to them.  Jesus has assured us that He would be in us.  Therefore, He said we shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover.  How’s your faith today.  Do you believe that when you go to pray for someone Jesus is with you?  Do you believe that He can work through you?  Remember, Jesus said, all things are possible to him that can believe.

Sing (again today):  Only believe! Only believe! All things are possible, only believe. Lord, I believe! Lord, I believe! All things are possible, Lord, I believe.

Thought For Today:  Bringing men to Jesus is one thing, but taking Him to them is another.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 8

Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness: When your fathers tempted me, proved me, and saw my works forty years. Wherefore I was grieved with that generation, and said, They do alway err in their heart; and they have not known my ways. So I sware in my wrath, They shall not enter into my rest.) Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end; While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. 

(Hebrews 3:7-19)

Today’s Morsel:  How many of you would say that most Christians do not believe what they read in the Bible?  I am of the belief that they don’t.  The reason I say that is because if they did, you would not have to worry about any of them doing what it says.  You wouldn’t have to worry about people talking behind your back.  You wouldn’t have to worry about them being unforgiving.  You wouldn’t have to worry about them doing what they are reading.  But because of their unbelief, they continue to do wrong and expect God to honor it.  Even many in Bible times didn’t believe what God said, and the writer said that they couldn’t enter the promise land because of their unbelief.  Unbelief can hinder us from obtaining the promises of God.  The writer of Hebrews tells us the story of the children of Israel missing out on the Promise Land to caution us not to allow the same spirit of unbelief to get into our hearts.  If you read the Bible, you have to believe what it says and do what it says or else you will lose your reward.

Sing:  Only believe! Only believe! All things are possible, only believe. Only believe! Only believe! All things are possible, only believe.

Thought For Today: Unbelief only produces more unbelief!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 7

For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. (Leviticus 17:11)

​​ 

Today’s Morsel: Scripture says that we are fearfully and wonderfully made.  One of the things that I have noticed, is that man has been able to​ reproduce

​ just about  everything that God has made 

​except the blood. Everyone one of us ha

​s

 our own blood type.  Unless yours is the same as mine, I cannot put yours into my body and live. God’s word says that our life is in the blood. This is why Acts 2:38 is so essential to your New Birth.   Notice: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38).  Baptism is for the remission of sin.  It’s here that the blood is applied to a person's life. If you want to live, then you have to obey the command.  You must have the blood of Christ applied to your life.  

Sing: What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus; what can make me whole again?  Nothing but the blood of Jesus.  Oh! Precious is the flow that makes me white as snow; no other fount I know, nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Thought  ​For Today:  The Life of the flesh is in the blood.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 6

I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on me should not abide in darkness. (John 12:46)

Today’s Morsel: I like it when I go outside early in the morning to walk before day.  As I look up into the sky and see that big beautiful full moon and the stars shining bright, I think to myself, WOW God, You are awesome to have created such awesomeness.  And yet He, the light of the world, robed Himself in flesh (John 1:14), came to the earth (John 1:10-11), walked among men, and still they did not know who He was (John 14:9).  And He said it was all because men loved darkness rather than the light, because their deeds were evil (John 3:19).  If you ever feel that the darkness of this world is over taking you, then please just turn to Jesus.  He’s the only Light that can get you out of darkness.

Sing: Light of the world You stepped down into darkness, opened my eyes let me see.  Beauty that made this heart adore You, hope of a life spent with You.

 Here I am to worship, here I am to bow down, Here I am to say that You're my God.  Altogether lovely, altogether worthy, Altogether wonderful to me.

Thought For Today: Jesus is the only Light that can get you out of darkness!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 5

He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.

(John 12:48)

Thought For Today: How do you receive advice when it is given to you?  I have found that most people who come to me for advice don’t want to hear what I have to tell them.  As soon as I try to tell them that their answer is located in the Word of God, they don’t want to hear it. Jesus said that the word that He had spoken would be the same word that would judge us in the last day.  God’s Word has the answer to life’s issues.  God is not saddened if we don’t obey it, because He knows that we will see it and hear it again.  Whether we like to hear it or not, punishment is based on the Word of God.  Sin is a violation of God’s Word.  Job said where the tree falls is where it will lay.  If you die a sinner, expect to appear before God as a sinner.  If you die as a righteous man, expect to appear before Him as a righteous man.  There is no purgatory for you to try to get it right. That same word that you hear preached will determine your final eternal destination.

Sing: Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path; Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.

Thought For Today: Obedience is better than sacrifice!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 3

But where shall wisdom be found? and where is the place of understanding?

(Job 28:12)

Today’s Morsel:  Often when I tell men that they should read the Book of Proverbs every day, they look at me like I’ve lost my mind.  I tell them that the Book of Proverbs is a book of wisdom for men.  I believe that the only way a man will ever learn how to become a true man of God is by reading Proverbs daily and heeding what it says. Solomon tells us that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 1:7), and that it is also the most important thing (Proverbs 4:7).  If you want to know where to find wisdom, try looking for prudence and you’ll find that is where she dwells.

Sing:  Oh deeper yet I pray, and higher every day, and wiser blessed Lord, in Thy Precious Holy Word.

Thought For Today: Wisdom is the principle thing therefore get wisdom!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 2

Unto thee, O God, do we give thanks, unto thee do we give thanks: for that thy name is near thy wondrous works declare. When I shall receive the congregation I will judge uprightly. The earth and all the inhabitants thereof are dissolved: I bear up the pillars of it. Selah. I said unto the fools, Deal not foolishly: and to the wicked, Lift not up the horn: Lift not up your horn on high: speak not with a stiff neck. For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another. (Psalms 75:1-7)

Today’s Morsel:  How do you feel when others get promoted over you?  Do you get upset or do you rejoice with them?  Scripture tells us to rejoice with them that rejoice and weep with them that weep.  Asap said that when he received the congregation that he would judge uprightly.  Many want promotion for the pay and not the responsibility.  Promotion shows that someone else is putting trust and confidence in you.  And those who are promoted and don’t do right soon see themselves being demoted.  Scripture tells us that the step of a good man is ordered of the Lord, and that promotions come from the Lord.  This world and its system may never promote you, but if you are a child of God and live righteously for him, one day you will receive your reward.  So be of good courage.

Sing:  Oh there’s a highway to heaven, none can walk up there but the pure in heart. Oh there’s a highway to heaven, walking up the King's highway.

Thought For Today: The promotion that matters is the one when you are promoted to heaven.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2016 September 1

I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

(2 Timothy 4:1-4)

Today’s Morsel:  Why does it seem that people do not want to hear and accept the truth?  Why have so many people become blinded to truth?  How can so many people call themselves Christians and yet reject truth?  Don't they know that Jesus is the truth (John 14:6)?  Don't they know that the same truth they reject will be the very same truth that will judge them in the last day (John 12:48)?  I believe that we are living in the last days.  It is just as the apostle Paul said that it would be:  Men would believe lies over truth; Women would be led away captive by lust; Men would be lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God; Evil would be called good and good would be called evil; The love of money would draw many away from God; And because sin would abound, the love of many would wax cold.  And so Paul admonished Timothy to preach the word.  We must still tell people what the word of God says. It is the only thing that can make them free from themselves and the wrong way and it is the only thing that will open their eyes to truth. Someone may decide to hear it, while others may choose to reject it. But if you have preached the word, you will have done your part.  So preach the word.

Sing:  I’m gonna serve the Lord anyway that I can! I’m gonna serve the Lord anyway that I can! I’m gonna serve the Lord, anyway that I can.

Thought For Today: The truth shall make you free.