Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 31

“This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:17-24)

Today’s Morsel:  It seems as though the world wants you to think that everything is run by aliens and super heroes. Dad and mom are no longer children' s super heroes, their heroes  are aliens.  And these heroes are all make believe heroes.  Paul told the church at Ephesus that they should not walk as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart.  So many people are blinded to truth these days.  What you see taking place in the world is this spirit that Paul spoke of.  It’s a spirit of blindness. It is a spirit of confusion. It is a spirit of alienation from God and truth.  It is the spirit of Satan in operation against itself.  Therefore, you must put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.  Holiness is separation from this world unto God. You can’t teach people what they think that they already know.  Their minds and their hearts must be changed before they can be taught.

Sing:  Change my heart, O’ God, make it ever true; change my heart O’ God, may I be like You. You are the Potter, I am the clay, mold me and make me, this is what I pray. Change my heart, O’ God, make it ever true; change my heart O’ God, may I be like You.

Thought For Today:  You can’t teach people what they think that they already know.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 30

"Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby." (1 Peter 2:1-2)

Today’s Morsel:  A few days ago, I was in a conversation  with a gentlemen about growth.  Both natural growth and spiritual growth.  So many people want natural growth and spiritual growth without being born.  A child can only grow so big inside the mother’s womb.  It must be born for it to grow to maturity.  The same holds true with the church. You can only grow so much inside of the church walls.  Until everyone takes their ministry outside those walls, they aren’t going to grow.  Therefore, Jesus knowing this,  commissioned everyone born again, to go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15-18). Peter said that “As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby.”   Jesus even told Nicodemus that growth and understanding was predicated upon one being born (John 3:1-24). What are you doing to expand your growth?

Sing: You need to tell somebody, tell somebody about Jesus; how he set you free, and gave you the victory.  You need to tell somebody, tell somebody about Jesus; tell somebody about goodness of the Lord.

Thought For Today: Birth before Growth (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 29

“For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, and to cleave unto him; Then will the LORD drive out all these nations from before you, and ye shall possess greater nations and mightier than yourselves. Every place whereon the soles of your feet shall tread shall be yours: from the wilderness and Lebanon, from the river, the river Euphrates, even unto the uttermost sea shall your coast be. There shall no man be able to stand before you: for the LORD your God shall lay the fear of you and the dread of you upon all the land that ye shall tread upon, as he hath said unto you” (Deuteronomy 11:22-25).

Today’s Morsel:  Throughout scripture, God continually encourages His people that He is with them if they obey Him, and that they do not need to fear.  Because of Him, others would know that He was with them, and would fear them.  Whenever the other nations saw the Ark of the Covenant, which God had given them as a token of His presence, nations feared.  Everyone who has been born-again of the water and the spirit has this same token, and should be courageous because He has given us His power, and His presence is always with us.  You don’t need to fear as long as you obey Him, because you have you been given the power to tread over your enemies that come against you (Luke 10:19).

Sing:  Great and Mighty is the Lord our God, Great and Mighty is He.  Great and Mighty is the Lord our God, Great and Mighty is He.  Lift up the banner let the anthem ring, praises to our King.  Great and Mighty is the Lord our God, Great and Mighty is He.

Thought For Today:  Jesus gives us encouraging power.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 28

"And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?" (Luke 12:16-20)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about being anchored to the world is it can deceive you.  The thing that I dislike about worldly status and wealth is it doesn’t last.  No matter what position or how much you have, it isn’t going to last or make you content.  I have seen many people depressed over a loss of wealth and position, and some of them are still depressed many years later.  In relating this parable of a rich man that we read today, a man whose land was plenty, Jesus is calling our attention to take notice what happened.  The man felt that he had enough to last him for the remainder of his life and so he felt to retire. However, he didn’t consider that his life would end so suddenly.  The parable also reveals to us what can happen when we put our stock in what we have and not in Christ. We must not allow our accumulation of status and wealth to trump our desire for the things of God and our eternal salvation.  We must always remember that we brought nothing into this world, and we for certain will carry nothing out when we leave.  So my morsel this morning is simply this, don’t be anchored to this world; but be anchored to Christ.  Be anchored to Christ Jesus so when He calls your number you’ll be ready to go.     

Sing: I’m going to a city, there’ll be no more night.  I’m going to city, where Jesus is the light.  The trumpet's  gonna sound and I’ll be called away; I’m going to a city someday.

Thought For Today: Don’t be anchored to the world (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 26

"And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish?"  (Mark 4:35-38).

Today’s Morsel:  One of the fundamental procedures that the military teaches its soldiers during Rifle Marksmanship Training is that of how to apply immediate action should their weapon fail to fire in combat.  This is just one of the things that a soldier must know and remember.  When the disciples found themselves in what seems to be an emergency, thinking that they would die in the storm, they took immediate action by waking Jesus from His sleep for their salvation.  They had tried what they knew to do by casting out the water that came into the ship.  But they soon realized that it wasn’t working, and they needed to take some immediate action or they would soon die.  And so they applied God’s word, which says, “And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me” (Psalms 50:15).  Do you know how to apply the correct immediate action procedures when you are facing danger or something bigger than you?  The best procedures are found in the word of God.

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

Thought For Today:  God’s word still works all the time (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 25

"Now when Ezra had prayed, and when he had confessed, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, there assembled unto him out of Israel a very great congregation of men and women and children: for the people wept very sore. And Shechaniah the son of Jehiel, one of the sons of Elam, answered and said unto Ezra, We have trespassed against our God, and have taken strange wives of the people of the land: yet now there is hope in Israel concerning this thing. Now therefore let us make a covenant with our God to put away all the wives, and such as are born of them, according to the counsel of my lord, and of those that tremble at the commandment of our God; and let it be done according to the law. Arise; for this matter belongeth unto thee: we also will be with thee: be of good courage, and do it. Then arose Ezra, and made the chief priests, the Levites, and all Israel, to swear that they should do according to this word. And they sware."  (Ezra 10:1-5)

Today’s Morsel:  One of the most important traits of character of a leader is that of courage.  Throughout scripture, God constantly tells His leaders and those that He chose to be strong and of good courage.  I believe that in today’s world, and even in the church, every leader needs to develop this trait quickly because we are going to have to deal with things that go against the word of God.  We see this time and time again in scripture when God sends His prophets to correct His people it’s not an easy walk for them.  No, it’s not always an easy task to do because many leaders are afraid of offending and turning people away. However, we must ask ourselves which is better for them, heaven or hell?  I think that most people would rather you tell them their wrong, let them be angry at you knowing that you had their best interest at heart, than to not tell them and let them burn forever.  “It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” J.K. Rowlings

Sing:  Be strong! Be brave! For the Lord, our God is with you.  Be strong! Be brave! For the Lord, our God is with you. We won’t be afraid, We won’t be dismay, because we’re walking in faith and victory; because we’re walking in faith and victory, because the Lord, our God is with us.  

Thought For Today: “It takes a great deal of bravery to stand up to our enemies, but just as much to stand up to our friends.” J.K. Rowlings

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 24

"And there was a famine in the land, beside the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went unto Abimelech king of the Philistines unto Gerar. And the LORD appeared unto him, and said, Go not down into Egypt; dwell in the land which I shall tell thee of: Sojourn in this land, and I will be with thee, and will bless thee; for unto thee, and unto thy seed, I will give all these countries, and I will perform the oath which I sware unto Abraham thy father; And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed; Because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge, my commandments, my statutes, and my laws. And Isaac dwelt in Gerar… Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him.” (Genesis 26:1-6,12-14)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about God’s blessings is that they flow through obedience.  God does not bless disobedience (see Deuteronomy 28).  Just because you may see people in the world with lots of material possessions and wealth, it does not mean that they are blessed.  Most of them are weary and stressed because they are working in their own strength and power.  They have, for the most part, foregone their integrity and have no contentment and joy.  When there was a famine in the land and everyone else was heading into Egypt, which represents the world, the Lord told Isaac to remain where he was and that He would bless him there.  You see, I believe, that God sometimes creates famines to see if we are going to walk by faith or by our sight.  When Isaac obeyed God, and remained where He said, scripture says, “Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great.”   Notice, Isaac sowed and in the first year, he received one hundredfold, because God blessed him and he went from great to very great.  How does one go from great to very great?  Only through the power of God.  You may think that you are in a famine right now, but sow where God has placed you. Don’t leave where you are.  God’s blessings only flow through obedience.

Sing: My blessing is coming my way, it’s only a matter of time, until His purpose comes to pass, it’s only a matter of time.

I’m waiting for a miracle, I’m waiting for a miracle, I’m waiting for a miracle, overtaken by a blessing!

Thought For Today: Plant where you are (Parker).

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 23

"And he rose up that night, and took his two wives, and his two womenservants, and his eleven sons, and passed over the ford Jabbok. And he took them, and sent them over the brook, and sent over that he had. And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day. And when he saw that he prevailed not against him, he touched the hollow of his thigh; and the hollow of Jacob's thigh was out of joint, as he wrestled with him. And he said, Let me go, for the day breaketh. And he said, I will not let thee go, except thou bless me. And he said unto him, What is thy name? And he said, Jacob. And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed. And Jacob asked him, and said, Tell me, I pray thee, thy name. And he said, Wherefore is it that thou dost ask after my name? And he blessed him there. And Jacob called the name of the place Peniel: for I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. And as he passed over Penuel the sun rose upon him, and he halted upon his thigh. Therefore the children of Israel eat not of the sinew which shrank, which is upon the hollow of the thigh, unto this day: because he touched the hollow of Jacob's thigh in the sinew that shrank."  (Genesis 32:22-32)

Today’s Morsel:  At the end of the Korean war, and the signing of the amnesty, many soldiers could cross what was called, “The Bridge of No Return.”  However, if they chose not to cross, they would be required to remain on the side they were and would always be an enemy to each other.  I’m sure some of you, like Jacob, have had to make a major decision in your life. This is not an easy decision for Jacob. Jacob had left home twenty years earlier to save his life, because he stole his brother’s birthright.  God had blessed Jacob as He had promised, and was now bringing him back to the place He had told him He would.  He now has eleven kids, material wealth, livestock, and servants.  But deep down within, Jacob is still plagued with the question that he had when he left home twenty years earlier; will my brother still be angry and kill me?   So many, like Jacob, are afraid to face the uncertainty.  Jacob needed confirmation from God about his life.  He knew that he had now crossed the point of no return and needed God’s assurance for his life.  And it was here at the Brook Jabbok that not only did he get his answer, but he also received a name change and a new identity.  What major decision are you facing now? How long are will you stay at Jabbok for your answer?  God is always the best counselor in decision making.  Just be sure and wait on Him for the answer.  

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

Thought For Today:  God is always the best counselor in decision making. (Parker) 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 22

"And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain apart by themselves: and he was transfigured before them. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and they were talking with Jesus." (Mark 9:2-4)

Today’s Morsel:  Probably, some of the first laundry mats or dry cleaners were done in olden times.  The fuller was a person who cleaned clothes.  When I was in Vietnam, we had a hutch maid, or lady, who did our laundry for us for a small wage.  It wasn’t uncommon to see them using a bar of soap to rub the clothes, place them in a tub of water, and stomp around on them with their feet to help make them clean.  They were like the agitator in the washing machine.  They always did such a great job of cleaning our clothes.  The fullers field and the fullers soap was the location and cleaning solution used to clean clothes.  It was usually located outside of the city walls due to the smell.  Apparently, they did a good job, as we see by Mark’s statement about Jesus' garments on the mount of transfiguration. “And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow; so as no fuller on earth can white them.”  I believe that Jesus is the greatest fuller ever.  Not only does He clean our garments, but He cleanses our hearts as well. 

Sing: He is fairer than the lily of the valley, He is brighter than the morning star, He is pure than the snow, fresher than the breeze, lovelier than all of these.

Thought For Today:  Jesus is the great fuller.  So, let Him cleanse you. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 21

"And God said unto Noah, The end of all flesh is come before me; for the earth is filled with violence through them; and, behold, I will destroy them with the earth. Make thee an ark of gopher wood; rooms shalt thou make in the ark, and shalt pitch it within and without with pitch. And this is the fashion which thou shalt make it of: The length of the ark shall be three hundred cubits, the breadth of it fifty cubits, and the height of it thirty cubits. A window shalt thou make to the ark, and in a cubit shalt thou finish it above; and the door of the ark shalt thou set in the side thereof; with lower, second, and third stories shalt thou make it. And, behold, I, even I, do bring a flood of waters upon the earth, to destroy all flesh, wherein is the breath of life, from under heaven; and every thing that is in the earth shall die. But with thee will I establish my covenant; and thou shalt come into the ark, thou, and thy sons, and thy wife, and thy sons' wives with thee. And of every living thing of all flesh, two of every sort shalt thou bring into the ark, to keep them alive with thee; they shall be male and female. Of fowls after their kind, and of cattle after their kind, of every creeping thing of the earth after his kind, two of every sort shall come unto thee, to keep them alive. And take thou unto thee of all food that is eaten, and thou shalt gather it to thee; and it shall be for food for thee, and for them. Thus did Noah; according to all that God commanded him, so did he." (Genesis 6:13-22)

Today’s Morsel:  Last September, I visited the replicate of the Ark that they say is the exact dimension spoken by God to Noah in the book of Genesis.  I was taken aback at the size and the design.  How would you have liked to have been the one chosen by God to build the Ark as Noah was? What a task.  One hundred years of labor on the same project.  But Noah shows us consistency and commitment to obeying God’s command.  The writer of Hebrews states that, “By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith” (Hebrews 11:7).  This Ark was built not only to preserve the creature’s life, but human life.  Noah found grace in God’s eyes and he was chosen by God for this great task. Therefore, I conclude, those who leave a good legacy often times are those who find grace in God’s eyes for His purpose.

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: By grace are you saved.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 19

“So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him. And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the LORD. As for me, this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.” (Isaiah 59:19-21)

Today’s Morsel:  When God gave Moses the instructions for how each tribe was to be set and displayed around the tabernacle in the wilderness, each tribe had its own standard, or flag.  That way, they knew where they were to assemble and where to report.  The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.” God will put our enemy to flight when he sees God’s flag coming because he knows that God is on our side.  If the Philistines knew that the Ark of the Covenant was in the camp of Israel, they were afraid of Israel and would not attack.  It was only when the Ark was not present that they were not afraid to attack.  God further stated, “this is my covenant with them, saith the LORD; My spirit that is upon thee, and my words which I have put in thy mouth, shall not depart out of thy mouth, nor out of the mouth of thy seed, nor out of the mouth of thy seed's seed, saith the LORD, from henceforth and for ever.”  Stay under God’s standard and you will be just fine.

Sing: I may never march in the Infantry, ride in the Calvary, shoot the Artillery; I may never soar over the enemy, but I’m in the Lord’s Army.  Yes Sir!

Thought For Today: Stay under God’s standard (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 18

"No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD."(Isaiah 54:17)

Today’s Morsel:  When I first joined the army, the Vietnam war was on going.  I can remember once in our training session on recognizing our enemy, someone asked the question, "How would we be able to know our enemy?"  At this point, one of the instructors stepped from behind the bleachers and begin to fire an AK47 assault rifle.  The instructor said to us, "Don’t ever forget this sound." 

The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn.” Notice, the weapon is already formed, but it shall not overcome us if we keep His armor on.  What are you doing to prove your armor to ensure nothing can get through it? Don’t ever forget the sound of His voice.

Sing:  There is power in the name of Jesus, there is power in the name of Jesus, to break every chain, to break every chain, break every chain.

Thought For Today:  Keep your armor on.   

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 17

"For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: thou art God alone. Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell."  (Psalms 86:10-13)

Today’s Morsel:  How do we describe God’s greatness? What yardstick could we use?  In Genesis 1, God unfolds part of His greatness when He created the heavens and the earth.  Psalm 136 lists some of His greatness because of His mercy toward us.  How do we describe His greatness?  He even asked Job, what some say, was 77 questions about His greatness (Job 38-42)?  When I’m asked this question, I simply say, I was a sinner lost and on my way to hell and He delivered me from that horrible pit.  And now I can truly say, He’s not only great, but He’s compassionate and loving for all those who seek Him.  His greatness is unsearchable and passed finding out.

Sing:  For thou art great, and doest wondrous things: Thou art God alone, teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in Thy truth: unite my heart to fear Thy name. I will praise Thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify Thy name for evermore.

Thought For Today:  His greatness is unsearchable. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 16

"For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. O LORD of hosts, blessed is the man that trusteth in thee."  (Psalms 84:10-12).

Today’s Morsel:  I love to travel and visit other places; but after a while, I long for home.  I want to sleep in my bed.  I want to eat at my own table.  I want to be in my own church. I want to see the saints that I know.  The Psalmist said, “For a day in thy courts is better than a thousand. I had rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.”  He wanted to be in God's house.  He wanted to be in God’s presence.  Sure, he could find God anywhere, because He’s omnipresent; but he wanted to be "home".  I don’t know about you.  Yes, I can find happiness, blessings, and satisfaction any place that I am; but when I’m at the church that I call my home church, and can hear my pastor (OH that’s me), it is better than thousands of days elsewhere. 

Sing: Better is one day in your courts, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your courts, than thousands elsewhere.  Better is one day in your courts, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your courts, than thousands elsewhere, than thousands elsewhere.

Thought For Today:  Neglect not the assembling of yourselves together. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 15

“Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother. He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live. Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth. Forsake her not, and she shall preserve thee: love her, and she shall keep thee. Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many.” (Proverbs 4:1-10)

Today’s Morsel:  One of my favorite books in the Bible is the book of Proverbs.  Solomon unloads so much wisdom for the man and woman of God, that if we would obey it, there is no chance of one falling, no cause of marriage failure, no cause for bad feelings, no cause for indebtedness, no cause for hate, no cause for backstabbing,  gossip, or pride, and no reason to not understand God’s requirements in life.  Solomon says that wisdom is one of the most important thing in your life.  It is the principle thing.  It’s the foundation of life and the base to stand on.  It promotes good character, values and principles in one’s life.  Therefore, he said, get wisdom, and with all our getting, we are to get an understanding.  He said that if you exalt wisdom, wisdom shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.  She shall give to your head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.  Why not make it a habit, as I have, to read a chapter of the book of Proverbs daily as part of your life study.

Sing:  Give me oil in my lamp keep me burning. Give me oil in my lamp I pray.  Give me oil in my lamp keep me burning, burning, burning; keep me burning till the break of day.  

Thought For Today:  A long and prosperous life begins with wisdom.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 14

"O bless our God, ye people, and make the voice of his praise to be heard: Which holdeth our soul in life, and suffereth not our feet to be moved. For thou, O God, hast proved us: thou hast tried us, as silver is tried. Thou broughtest us into the net; thou laidst affliction upon our loins. Thou hast caused men to ride over our heads; we went through fire and through water: but thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." (Psalms 66:8-12)

Today’s Morsel:  One of my favorite songs is “Thank God for the Blood.”  One of the verse says, “We cannot know, we may not tell how we are saved from death and hell; through faith we know that all is well, He took our sins away.”  That’s for sure.  We don’t know why we go through some of the things that we go through heading to the Promise Land. Israel wondered the same thing.  The psalmist said that they were tried, tested, afflicted, ensnared, and in some cases defeated by their enemies.  And yet God still brought them to that place He had promised.  I picture this as the church, which we are.  We are going to face things in our lives because we are in a warfare.  We have an enemy and sadly sometimes he does take some of us out.  But we know that there is a promise to those who endure to the end.  So don’t be discouraged, and don’t allow your afflictions to hinder your progression.  Hold on.  We win!  Continue thanking Him for the blood!

Sing:  Thank God for the blood, thank God for the blood, thank God, for the blood that washes white as snow.

Thought For Today:  Don’t allow your afflictions to hinder your progression. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 Aug 12

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds” (Hebrews 12:1-3).

Today’s Morsel:  One of the things about being an author is that you come across people who are excited to meet you.  You may not see being an author as a big deal but they do. I think this may be why so many people get so excited when they come to church and meet Jesus for the first time.  They have read some of His book, (The Bible) and now they get a chance to meet Him.  Paul said that Jesus is The Author and Finisher of our faith.  I don’t know if Jesus is as excited about meeting us as we are about meeting Him, but it sure does feel good knowing that you know The Author of the greatest book ever written.

Sing: Who is this who for our sorrows offers comfort and relief, bringing sunshine to the dark and shadowed life? Saying softly, “Cease repining, lift Thy soul above its grief, let the peace past understanding still the strife”

It is Jesus! Jesus! Sad one, weep no more! He will heal the broken-hearted, open will the prison door, He is able to deliver evermore.

Thought For Today:  Jesus … The Author and Finisher of our faith.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 Aug 11

“And David went out whithersoever Saul sent him, and behaved himself wisely: and Saul set him over the men of war, and he was accepted in the sight of all the people, and also in the sight of Saul's servants. And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick. And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. And Saul was very wroth, and the saying displeased him; and he said, They have ascribed unto David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed but thousands: and what can he have more but the kingdom? And Saul eyed David from that day and forward.” (1 Samuel 18:5-9)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about perception, if it is not checked and controlled, is that it can cause us to think evil about others which may not be true.  Divorces are caused because wives or husband perceive that their spouse doesn’t love them because they see them talking with someone else. People feel that others are talking about them when they see them talking with someone else and they were not included; or they are not asked to go out with the group.  When David became a servant unto Saul, he did what was asked of him by Saul.  But when he began to receive praise for his accomplishments and victories, Saul because jealous and perceived that David was vying for the kingdom; and so, he went about to destroy him and anyone who associated them self with David. We must not allow Satan to make us think evil of others when we are not included.  We cannot allow our perception to be distorted and control us.  Remember, people have a right to choose their own associates. 

Sing:  I have a friend, His name is Jesus, Jesus.  I, I have a friend, His name is Jesus, Jesus.  He's my rock that I lean on, He's my shelter from every storm.  I, I have a friend, His name is Jesus.

Thought for today: Perception… a killer of good leadership. (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 10

"And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Bethel, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother. Then Jacob said unto his household, and to all that were with him, Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went. And they gave unto Jacob all the strange gods which were in their hand, and all their earrings which were in their ears; and Jacob hid them under the oak which was by Shechem.” 

(Genesis 35:1-4)

  

Today’s Morsel:  If people didn’t know you by name or know that you were a member of their church, would they know that you are a Christian.  The world does not associate short pants, mini skits, women wearing pants, men wearing dresses, or minister’s preaching in jeans with their shirt tail out, make-up and excessive jewelry with Christianity.  If you don’t believe it, how do you think a person who has never been to church before in their life knows how and what you are supposed to act and look like as a Christian?  When Jacob returned to the land that God had promised him, he told his family, “Put away the strange gods that are among you, and be clean, and change your garments: And let us arise, and go up to Bethel; and I will make there an altar unto God, who answered me in the day of my distress, and was with me in the way which I went.”  No, clothing does not make you a Christian, but when we read scripture, we can see that there was a requirement by God for His people.  As Paul told the church at Rome, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” (Romans 12:2).  Not only should our light shine in our fruit and gifts, but it should also shine in our dress and appearance.

Sing: This little light on mine, I’m gonna let it shine. This little shine of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.  This little light of mine, I’m gonna, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Thought For Today:  Be not conformed to the world. Renew your mind.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 9

“And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light. Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying. But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof.” 

(Romans 13:11-14)

Today’s Morsel:  I believe that one of the problems with the church today is that we keep putting on darkness and calling it “Generational Change”.  Yes, in every generation things may change, but Paul said that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8). Yes, generations do change, but not God.  As He Himself states through the prophet Malachi, “For I am the LORD, I change not…"(Malachi 3:6).  The apostle Paul admonishes us to cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.  He told the church at Ephesus, “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. But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you, as becometh saints; Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.” (Ephesians 5:1-4). Generational change doesn’t trump the Bible.

Sing: Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, lift up your voice to God.  Pray in the spirit and with understanding; Oh magnify the Lord.

Thought For Today:  Generational Change doesn’t trump the Bible. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 8

"I am the LORD thy God, which brought thee out of the land of Egypt: open thy mouth wide, and I will fill it. But my people would not hearken to my voice; and Israel would none of me. So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lust: and they walked in their own counsels. Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways! I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries. The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever. He should have fed them also with the finest of the wheat: and with honey out of the rock should I have satisfied thee.” (Psalms 81:10-16)

Today’s Morsel: In today’s world, there seems to be a lack of teaching children obedience.  School administers, teachers, law enforcement, and pastors are having to deal with this evil of disobedience.  Benjamin Franklin said, “Let your child’s first lesson be that of obedience.”  One of the problems with disobedience is that it hinders the flow of God’s blessings and stifles people success.  When we read scripture, we can see how God rewards those who are obedient to His word versus those who are not.  The entire 28^th Chapter of the Book of Deuteronomy, written by Moses, shows the contrast between obedience and disobedience.  When King Saul refused to obey God’s command, he lost his kingdom and others as well as himself suffered.  You see, your disobedience doesn’t only affect you.  The Lord said, “Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways! I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries.”  God said, if they had just listened and done what I said, I would have defeated their enemies for them.  Do you have any enemies today?  What about fears, calamities, afflictions, or distresses?  Do you want them defeated and removed from your life?  Try being obedient to the Lord.  What will it take for us to realize the importance of obedience.  Obedience is how God works.

Sing: Trust and obey, for there’s no other way; to be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey.

Thought For Today:  “Let your child’s first lesson be that of obedience.” Benjamin Franklin 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 7

“But I would ye should understand, brethren, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; So that my bonds in Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; And many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. Some indeed preach Christ even of envy and strife; and some also of good will: The one preach Christ of contention, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my bonds: But the other of love, knowing that I am set for the defence of the gospel.”  

(Philippians 1:12-17)

Today’s Morsel:  In the late 50’s and early 60’s, one of my favorite television shows was “Have Gun Will Travel.” The name of the main character was a man by the name of “Paladin.”  He was always called upon to rid the town of bad guys.  Paladin is defined as a defender of a noble causes.  In so many ways, the apostle Paul could bear the name of Paladin.  Paul was set for the defense of the gospel.  Paul was willing to defend the cause.  He told those with him, when they tried to prevent him from going to Jerusalem, when the Prophet Agabus told him that he would be bound and delivered into the hands of the Gentiles (Acts 21:10-12), “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” (Acts 21:13).  Are you set for the defense of the Gospel?  Are you willing to defend what you believe in?  If we are truly born again, then we must be Paladins.

Sing:  I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of salvation; and it is to everyone, everyone that believes it, and to everyone, every that receives it, we can have everlasting life.

Thought For Today:  Let’s become Paladins (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 5

“And the LORD sent Nathan unto David. And he came unto him, and said unto him, There were two men in one city; the one rich, and the other poor. The rich man had exceeding many flocks and herds: But the poor man had nothing, save one little ewe lamb, which he had bought and nourished up: and it grew up together with him, and with his children; it did eat of his own meat, and drank of his own cup, and lay in his bosom, and was unto him as a daughter. And there came a traveller unto the rich man, and he spared to take of his own flock and of his own herd, to dress for the wayfaring man that was come unto him; but took the poor man's lamb, and dressed it for the man that was come to him. And David's anger was greatly kindled against the man; and he said to Nathan, As the LORD liveth, the man that hath done this thing shall surely die: And he shall restore the lamb fourfold, because he did this thing, and because he had no pity. And Nathan said to David, Thou art the man” (2 Samuel 12:1-7)

Today’s Morsel:  Courage is the ability to do something that you know is difficult or dangerous.  Courage comes in two forms: Physical and moral.  Physical courage is conveying bravery when facing physical pain, hardship, death or threat of death; while moral courage is the ability to make the right decisions when in situations of popular opposition, shame, scandal, discouragement, or personal loss.  Moral courage is the courage to act upon moral reasons despite the risk of adverse consequences.  Many men displayed courage on the battle field during past and current battles.  It took great courage for Nathan the Prophet to call King David on his sins.  Not only did he display physical courage, but moral courage as well.  Courage is seen when you follow your conscience instead of “following the crowd.”   When we refuse to take part in hurtful or disrespectful behavior toward others. When we are willing to sacrifice our personal gain for the benefit of others.  When we speak our minds even though others don’t agree.  When we take complete responsibility for our actions and our mistakes.  When we follow the rules, and insist that others do the same.  When we challenge the status quo in search of better ways, and when we do what we know is right regardless of the risks and potential consequences.  Courage is the character trait of those who are more concerned about what Jesus thinks of them rather than others.  

Sing:  If God be for us, who can be against us?  If God be for us, who can be against us?  If God be for us, who can be against us?  Just have faith in the power of His Word.

Thought For Today:  Ain’t scared! 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 4

“But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.” (Numbers 14:24).

Today’s Morsel:  Attitude is a settled way of thinking or feeling about someone or something, typically one that is reflected in a person's behavior.  There are basically three types of attitudes. The first, is an Upbeat attitude.  The second, is a Can-Do attitude.  And the third, is an attitude of gratitude.   Upbeat attitudes are attitudes that display a good outlook on life.  They are often filled with exaltation for others and oneself.  A person with an Upbeat attitude finds strength in what they believe in.  Things such as their God, their faith, their religion, and them self.  A Can-Do attitude is an attitude that says as Paul said, “I can do all things through Christ that strengthens me!” (Philippians 4:13).  It’s an attitude that says we can do it and we will overcome.  A Can-Do attitude lets nothing stop them from trying.  Danger doesn’t prevent them from trying. Height doesn’t stop them from trying to climb. Failure doesn’t stop them from trying again. (Ask Albert Ernestine, Abraham Lincoln, Michael Jordan.)  These men succeeded because they had Can-Do attitudes.  An Attitude of Gratitude is a thankful attitude.  No matter how much or how little they have, they are thankful.  Those with this type attitude know that there are those who are worse off than they are.  They understand that joy is not found in things, but in Christ. They have a heart of benevolence about them.  No matter which attitude a person possesses, those individuals who have good character most often portray Upbeat and Can-Do attitudes; as well as an Attitude of Gratitude in their lives.  

Sing:  Thanks! Thanks!  I give you thanks, for all You have done.  I am so blessed, my soul has found rest.  O Lord, I give you thanks.

Thought For Today:  Attitude is everything (Parker)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2017 August 3

“If ye fulfil the royal law according to the scripture, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself, ye do well: But if ye have respect to persons, ye commit sin, and are convinced of the law as transgressors.” (James 2:8-9)

Today’s Morsel:  Respect is a feeling of deep admiration for someone or something elicited by their abilities, qualities, or achievements.   Aretha Franklin sang a song title, “Respect.” R-E-S-P-E-C-T tell me what it means to me.  It had been previous sung by Otis Redding, but had not obtained such fame as it did with Aretha Franklin, because of the feminist movement of the 60’s.  Respect - everyone wants it and everyone needs it.  There are basically two types of respect.  First, is the basic human respect.  The kind we’re entitled to merely by being born. This type of respect is based on other people’s needs, hopes, rights, dreams, ideas, and inherent worth.  This is just as important and valuable as our own.  And it’s demonstrated by us treating others with dignity and courtesy.  As Jackie Robinson said, “I’m not concerned with your liking or disliking me… All I ask is that you respect me as a human being.”  The second type, is that we “Earn” by our own actions.  It’s based on who we are and it comes from our behavior.  How we live, act, and how we conduct ourselves will determine if we earn it from others.  If we want to be respected and earn others respect, then we must eliminate derogatory words and phrases from our vocabulary, treat everyone with dignity and courtesy, and we must consider others’ feelings before speaking or acting.  The Bible says that in order to have a friend we must show ourselves friendly.  I would also say that in order to be respected, we must show respect and live a life that reflects respect to others.   

Sing: Oh how I love Jesus, Oh how I love Jesus, Oh how I love Jesus, because He first loved me.

Thought For Today:  “I’m not concerned with your liking or disliking me… All I ask is that you respect me as a human being.”  Jackie Robinson