Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 6

How To Build Character

 

“Give me understanding, and I shall keep thy law; yea, I shall observe it with my whole heart.” (Psalms 119:34)

 

Today’s Morsel: In some spheres of religion and in some organizations, it is taught that the Old Testament is not for us today. It is taught that we are of the New Testament, and thus the Old Testament is not needed. But this could not be further from the truth. Paul stated: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16) Jesus even ask the religious leaders, “Have you not read?” What was He referring to? He was referring to Old Testament scriptures. So, what was the purpose of the Law, which God gave to Moses to give to the people for them to obey? The overall purpose was for behavior and character building. God’s law teaches us how to behave and to build character in our lives. No, we don’t have or need to bring an animal to be sacrificed for sin, as Jesus became that perfect sacrifice for us. But the moral law must always be adhered to. For example, if a man’s neighbor’s animal was to get out and come to his house, he was either to return it, or to keep it until the neighbor came looking for it. Not to fornicate, commit adultery, and idol worship, were all to teach us how to build character. The law brought about a change in folks. And God said that there would come a day that He was going to put His law in our hearts:  “But this shall be the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel; After those days, saith the LORD, I will put my law in their inward parts, and write it in their hearts; and will be their God, and they shall be my people. And they shall teach no more every man his neighbour, and every man his brother, saying, Know the LORD: for they shall all know me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the LORD: for I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more.” (Jeremiah 31:33-34) This is why I believe, when David wrote, “The law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul” (Psalms 19:7), he’s showing us that obedience to the law will change our way of thinking and will also change us to become more like Christ. Let me encourage you today, don’t think that you don’t need the Old Testament, that’s where we find our hope (Romans 15:4).

 

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: “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” (Joshua 1:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 5

Arise With Thanksgiving

 

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” (Psalms 136:1)

 

Today’s Morsel: How we begin our day will usually determine the outcome of our day. If we arise with murmuring and complaints, our day will usually end with murmuring and complaints. If we arise with bitterness of heart, our day will usually end with bitterness of heart. But if we arise with thanksgiving in our heart, our day will usually end with thanksgiving in our heart. We reap what we sow. Paul admonishes us: “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18) He said that God’s desire is that we give thanks in everything. Why? Because God already knows that we reap what we sow. And God wants our day to be filled with joy and excitement. He doesn’t want us to be burdened and overwhelmed with evil and evil thoughts. He wants us as His children to be thankful for who we are and what He has given unto us. Our situations and circumstances have nothing to do with whether we are thankful or not. Thankfulness should flow from our heart because we know who God is, and we know His love for us.

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” (Colossians 3:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 4

Reproof of Instructions

 

“For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:” (Proverbs 6:23)

 

Today’s Morsel: Solomon, the wisest man in the world, not only tells us to buy the truth, but also wisdom, instruction, and understanding. Instruction gives us detailed information which tells us how something should be done, operate, or assembled. We can have all the truth and wisdom in the world, but if we don’t know how to use it and when to use it, it will do us no good.  And he also tells us that reproof of instructions is the way of life. True change comes through instructions. Even in the church, our teaching ought to be instructional if we want to see change in the lives of people. People will never reach perfection, learn how to behave, and build character in their lives without instructions. I can tell my child that stealing is wrong and give them a spanking each time that they do it, but not until I sat them down, give them some solid instruction as to why stealing is wrong, or take them on a tour of a jail or prison where they can see those incarcerated for stealing, will my punishment have a true effect on their thinking. Correction must always be given with instructions if we want to see change in others. 

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 2

One Bite and You’ll Know

 

“O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.” (Psalms 34:8)

 

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever played the game where they blindfold you and you must identify certain foods? It’s really a fun game, but always remember to use only safe foods, and ask the participants if they are allergic to any food or drank.  Have you ever ordered a steak at a restaurant, and it was one of the best that you’ve ever had? And you have never forgotten what it tasted like. And now you compare every steak to that one? David said, O’ taste and see that the Lord is good. Once you have tasted the goodness of God, you will always remember that taste. It doesn’t take much to realize how good God is, if you have once tasted of His sweet word and truth, you will never forget how good it is. You ought to be able to identify it no matter where you are. You may be saying, I don’t know. Consider this, how many times have you gone to a church service and you left wondering if God was there? Do you know why? You didn’t taste what you were used to. If the God that you first tasted was there, you would have known.  It doesn’t take much to recognize God. The psalmist stated: “Gracious is the LORD, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful.” (Psalms 116:5)

 

Sing: There’s honey in the rock for me. There’s honey in the rock for me. There’s honey, honey, honey, honey, there’s honey in the rock for me.

 

Thought For Today: “If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious.” (1 Peter 2:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 November 1

I Want To Make A Difference

 

“Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” (Jude 1:21-23)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that every born-again believer ought to do is strive to make a difference in the lives of others. Scripture tells us, “That word, I say, ye know, which was published throughout all Judaea, and began from Galilee, after the baptism which John preached; How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.” (Acts 10:37-38) Jesus went about doing good to everyone. The great commission is given for us to make a difference in the lives of others. We ought to never consider going to heaven by ourselves. As a matter of fact, I don’t think that we will get there if we haven’t made a difference in someone else’s life. As scripture tells us: “And it came to pass at the end of seven days, that the word of the LORD came unto me, saying, Son of man, I have made thee a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore hear the word at my mouth, and give them warning from me. When I say unto the wicked, Thou shalt surely die; and thou givest him not warning, nor speakest to warn the wicked from his wicked way, to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Yet if thou warn the wicked, and he turn not from his wickedness, nor from his wicked way, he shall die in his iniquity; but thou hast delivered thy soul. Again, When a righteous man doth turn from his righteousness, and commit iniquity, and I lay a stumblingblock before him, he shall die: because thou hast not given him warning, he shall die in his sin, and his righteousness which he hath done shall not be remembered; but his blood will I require at thine hand. Nevertheless if thou warn the righteous man, that the righteous sin not, and he doth not sin, he shall surely live, because he is warned; also thou hast delivered thy soul.” (Ezekiel 3:16-21) We should want to warn folks because we care for their souls. There are a lot of people just needing someone to talk to, someone to listen, or someone to just show them the way. The story is told of a dog that was caught in a trap and couldn’t get out. But a young boy ventured by, saw him, and set him free. To the little boy’s surprise, the dog did not run away but licked the boy’s face as a jester of thanks. And the dog became his best friend and protector. If you make a difference in the lives of others, they just might become your best friend and protector.

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.” (Mark 1:40-41)  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 31

Who Was That Masked Man?

 

“Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son of God? He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.” (John 9:35-38)

 

Today’s Morsel: The truth about Jesus is often found when we search the scripture. You can hear much preaching and teaching, but that will not reveal to you who Jesus is. It requires each of us to search the scriptures for ourselves and then you will know Him. As Jesus said: “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13) We can find our answer when we search with our whole heart.  “All things are delivered unto me of my Father, Jesus said, and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.” (Matthew 11:27) If Jesus doesn’t reveal to you who He is, you will fight against who He is. Many people have lived their entire life attending church, calling themselves Christians, and yet have never known who Jesus is. Jesus even asked the religious leader who should have known who He was: “What think ye of Christ? whose son is he? They say unto him, The Son of David. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool? If David then call him Lord, how is he his son? And no man was able to answer him a word, neither durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.” (Matthew 22:41-46) Instead of not asking Him anymore questions, trying to justify themselves, they should have humbled themselves and asked for an explanation. Let me ask you a question? Is Jesus in the godhead, or is the Godhead in Jesus? Who do you say that He is?

 

Sing: He’s the great I Am, the everlasting Father, He’s the Prince of peace, The great eternal Wonder; Holy Counselor, and Zion’s righteous Governor, He’s the great, He’s the great I Am.

 

He’s Elohim of all the holy prophets, He’s the Elishiddai of all the seers and sages; He is the mighty One of all the sacred pages. He’s the great, He’s the great I Am.

 

He’s Jehovah God, the coming King of glory, He is the true Nissi, the Lord of grace and favor, He is Jesus Christ, Redeemer, Friend, and Savior; He’s the great, He’s the great I Am.

 

Thought For Today: “Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?” (John 14:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 30

One Thing I Know

 

“Then again called they the man that was blind, and said unto him, Give God the praise: we know that this man is a sinner. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.” (John 9:24-25)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things you learn in the military when you are advancing through the ranks is to never forget where you came from. In other words, don’t forget that you once held the same positions that those under you now hold and that you didn’t know everything when you were there and that you, too, made some foolish mistakes the same as they are. The same is true with our salvation. We weren’t always saved. If it had not been for God’s grace and mercy, where would we be. So, let’s not be too quick to judge those who may not have been in the church as long as we have been. They may still be struggling trying to get to where we are. Thus, we ought to be compassionate and reach back and give them a helping hand. When the religious leaders accused Jesus of being a sinner, the blind man whom Jesus had healed, stated: “Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.” He said, call him what you want, but this one thing I know, I was blind, but now I see. And so was I. I was blind and could not see. “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:” (Ephesians 2:4-6) And that is one thing I will never forget!

 

Sing: He touched me, o-oh, He touched me, and O’ the joy that floods my soul; Something happened, and now I know; Jesus touched me, and made me whole.

 

Thought For Today: “And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41-42)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 29

Follow Me

 

“And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” (Matthew 4:19)

 

Today’s Morsel: When I first enlisted in the army, my Military Occupation Specialty (MOS) was 11-Bravo, Infantry. Queen of Battle. And our Infantry motto was, “Follow me!” We would sing songs to express our love for the infantry. Songs such as: “Hail! Hail! Infantry, queen of battle, follow me; with a weapon in my hand, I want to be a fighting man.” The infantry doesn’t follow others into battle, they lead others into the battle, and calls for them to follow them. Paul admonishes us to: “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1); and “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 4:9). Who are you following? Jesus told the men He was calling to follow Him and that He would make them fishers of men. Would you like to learn how to properly win souls? Then open your Bible, read it, and start following Jesus’ example, and you will be totally surprised how many fish (men) you will catch. Keep your eyes on Jesus.

 

Sing: Lead me Lord, I will follow. Lead me Lord, I will go. You have called me, I will answer. Lead me Lord, I will go.

 

Thought For Today: “Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.” (Hosea 6:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 28

Don’t Change Who You Are Because Other’s Don’t Believe

 

“For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, That thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.” (Romans 3:3-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: Some folks who try to please others will change who they are trying to fit in so that others may change who they are. Some folks have tried to use Paul’s quote: “To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” (1 Corinthians 9:22) I believe what Paul is saying here is that he is willing to go anywhere and any place to preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, and even to every kindred nation and tongue, so that others may be saved. But he’s not going to change who he is to do it.  He told the Romans: For what if some did not believe? shall their unbelief make the faith of God without effect? God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar. First, let me say, none of us can save anyone. Only God can do that. But if we change who we are to be like someone else, then who does that someone else have to look to for a godly example, separation, holy living, and godly character? Be who Jesus called you to be, letting your life be an example for Him.  

 

Sing: I’ve got Jesus on the inside, He’s working on the outside, Oh what a change in my life. I’ve got Jesus on the inside, He’s working on the outside, Oh what a change in my life. I’ve got Jesus on the inside, He’s working on the outside, Oh what a change in my life, Oh what a change in my life.

 

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 26

Let Me Pray About It

 

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.” (Colossians 3:17)

 

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever had one of those moments when you asked someone on your team to fill a needed position in the church and they say to you, “Let me pray about.” Why do we think that we need to pray about everything that someone asks us to do? Shouldn’t we possess the wisdom, knowledge, discretion, and understanding of God to make wise and timely decisions. Should not these things cause us to already see the need? God has already given to us His authority and power to work on His behalf when He filled us with the Holy Ghost. So, what is there to pray about? Paul admonishes us: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24) Come on, stop using prayer for something that you don’t want to do. Do it. You may find that that was the very place that you found your joy and hone your skillset. 

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?” (1 Corinthians 3:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 25

 When God Uses You For A Pattern Of Long-Suffering

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief. And the grace of our Lord was exceeding abundant with faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief. Howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me first Jesus Christ might shew forth all longsuffering, for a pattern to them which should hereafter believe on him to life everlasting.” (1 Timothy 1:12-16)

 

Today’s Morsel: When we think of patterns, we think of something that other things are made from. Everything that is made is patterned after some original thing. Even Solomon, the wisest man that has ever lived, tells us: “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Is there any thing whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.” (Ecclesiastes 1:9-10) Paul relating his calling and ministry tells Timothy, stating that God used him for a pattern of long-suffering so that others after him would believe. Calling himself the chiefest of sinners, Paul says that God showed him grace and that he obtained mercy to show that God is long-suffering, not willing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance. Paul said that God was using him for a pattern of long-suffering to show that if God could save him, that He could forgive and save anyone. Has God used, or is God using your life to show others His long-suffering so that others may be saved? 

 

Sing: Saved and I’m happy today, thanks be to God for this I can say, that I’m saved and I’m happy today, I’m walking up the King’s highway.

 

Thought For Today: “Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount.” (Hebrews 8:5)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 24

 The Purpose for God’s Word 

“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)

 

Today’s Morsel: Are you aware that every problem that you will face in life can be overcome by obedience to the word of God? God left nothing without an example in His word. If I have a disagreement with someone, the word tells me how to fix it. It tells me how to raise my kids, treat my spouse so that we will have a great marriage, time management, financial planning, and even soul winning. But one of the most important things that it teaches us is how to maintain hope. And Paul tells us that it requires patience and comfort of the scriptures for hope to come to fruition. When we take God’s word and apply it to our lives, and give it a chance to take root, it will produce the hope that we desire and that we need in life. Not that it’s going to change others, it’s going to change us. And once it changes us, we will see the load that we are carrying, and the disagreements, and other things, that were blocking our hope, and those things are now removed, and we can see what we ought to do. Which gives us hope. Let me encourage you today. If you are feeling hopeless, read God’s word and apply it to your life and let God work through you. You will feel so much better.

 

Sing: There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus. No not one, no not one. There is no friend that is so meek and lowly. No not one, no not one. Jesus knows all about our struggles, He will work till the day is done. There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus, no not one, no not one.

 

Thought For Today: “And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” (Romans 5:5)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 23

Faintheartedness

 

“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! And wherefore hath the LORD brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? were it not better for us to return into Egypt? And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.” (Numbers 14:1-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: Bad new or news that creates fear can cause you to lose heart. The children of Israel, after receiving an evil report from the spies, lost their zeal to go further. They saw the only option for them was to go back to being slaves in Egypt. We see this same theme being played out in the lives of those who backslide and walk away from God. The evil they face is sometimes too overwhelming for them to deal with, and so they lose heart. Faintheartedness can be caused by many things. Such as being overwhelmed with duty. Terrorism. Fear. Bullying. Illness. And even divorce. These things can zap our courage and cause us to see no answer for our situation. But Jesus tells us: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10) “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32). When David was fainthearted, after returning to Zitlag and realizing that everything he had was gone and his men spoke of stoning him, he encouraged himself in the Lord, prayed, and sought God for His help. And God heard him and delivered his enemies into his hand and returned their families to them. Sometimes when we are overwhelmed and fainthearted, we may need to check our complaint meter; as complaining causes us to become overwhelmed. Seeking God through a time of praise and allowing Him to refresh us is often the best remedy for our faintheartedness. 

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not.” (Numbers 14:9)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 22

 Make Some Noise 

“A Psalm of praise. Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” (Psalms 100:1-5)

 

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture we are told to make a joyful noise unto God. David seems to like to praise God with noise: Ezra states: “And they sang together by course in praising and giving thanks unto the LORD; because he is good, for his mercy endureth for ever toward Israel. And all the people shouted with a great shout, when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. But many of the priests and Levites and chief of the fathers, who were ancient men, that had seen the first house, when the foundation of this house was laid before their eyes, wept with a loud voice; and many shouted aloud for joy: So that the people could not discern the noise of the shout of joy from the noise of the weeping of the people: for the people shouted with a loud shout, and the noise was heard afar off.” (Ezra 3:11-13). When the temple was built, they rejoiced, and shouted with joy. They followed the pattern which was set by David. David was a worshipper. David liked playing before the Lord. The people were commanded to: “Praise him with the sound of the trumpet: praise him with the psaltery and harp. Praise him with the timbrel and dance: praise him with stringed instruments and organs. Praise him upon the loud cymbals: praise him upon the high sounding cymbals. Let every thing that hath breath praise the LORD. Praise ye the LORD.” (Psalms 150:3-6) Instruments were used to praise God. “And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of the disciples began to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen; Saying, Blessed be the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disciples. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out.” (Luke 19:37-40) Care to make some noise for Jesus?

 

Sing: I’m gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can. I’m gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can. I’m gonna praise Him in the morning, praise Him all day long; I’m gonna praise the Lord anyway that I can.

 

Thought For Today: “To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. O clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph.” (Psalms 47:1)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 21

Did You Forget Your Cross?

 

“And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.” (Luke 9:23)

 

Today’s Morsel: A few years ago, I wrote a book entitled, “The True Cross Bearers.” My goal was to relate some of the methods in which we could carry our cross daily to represent our discipleship with Jesus. It is important that each of us take up our cross daily and follow Him, just as Jesus told us to do. But I am afraid that I see many who may not be carrying their cross. Do people see that you are carrying your cross daily? The cross is just a reminder of what Christ has done for us. The cross is just a reminder to us that character counts. That the resurrection did take place. That obedience is better than sacrifice.  That sin can only be destroyed from one’s life for those who have a commitment to carrying their cross daily. And that salvation stems out of a love for the cross.  Some folks have their cross around their neck, while others have them on the back of their car and some others have them mounted in their homes. But few have them on their shoulders. Remember, the cross reminds Satan of your past, but it also reminds him of his future. So don’t leave home without it.

 

Sing: At the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away; It was there by faith, I received my sight, and now I am happy all the day.

 

Thought For Today: “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:18)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 19

Partakers of The Divine Nature

 

“Simon Peter, a servant and an apostle of Jesus Christ, to them that have obtained like precious faith with us through the righteousness of God and our Saviour Jesus Christ: Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” (2 Peter 1:1-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of our ultimate goals ought to be to become like Jesus. We must be partakers of His divine nature. The Holy Ghost in us ought to display on the outside of us the attributes of God. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, faith, humility, and self-control should be seen in our lives no matter where we are and what is happening around us. God’s attribute of holiness, light, grace, mercy, and compassion should drive your actions and conduct daily. Paul told the church at Philippi: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:5) John enlightened us with these words: “And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments. He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:3-6) If we are not walking as He walked, chances are we have not partaken of His divine nature, and we need to spend more time in His presence and in His word.

 

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: “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.” (Hebrews 3:14-15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 18

Overcoming Temptation

 

“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)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about temptation is that everyone is enticed and lured by it. We are tempted to lie in the bed when we know that we ought to get up and pray. We are tempted to take another piece of pie or cake when that first piece tasted so good. We are tempted to lie and cheat when we are struggling financially, or when our backs are against the wall, and we are in trouble. We are tempted to go back to our old ways when we see what looks like fun being had by others that are not in the church. The Bible says that even Jesus was tempted in all point like as we, yet He did not sin. He did not give in to it. Paul said that there is no temptation that is not common to man. In other words, we are all tempted by the same things. The lust of the flesh. The lust of the eyes. And the pride of life. Every temptation falls into one of these categories because these are the weapons of Satan. Remember, he is called the tempter. “And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.” (Matthew 4:3) Paul told the church at Thessalonica: “For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know. For this cause, when I could no longer forbear, I sent to know your faith, lest by some means the tempter have tempted you, and our labour be in vain.” (1 Thessalonians 3:4-5) So how do we overcome temptation? Jesus gives an example by quoting and standing on the word of God. If it worked for Jesus, it will work for you. James said: “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man: But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. Do not err, my beloved brethren.” (James 1:13-16) Don’t let lust trick you. Stay firm on God and His word and He will keep you from falling.

 

Sing: I command you Satan in the name of the Lord to take up your weapons and flee.  For God has given the authority to walk all over thee. 

 

Thought For Today: “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.” (Revelation 3:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 17

The Sentence of Death

 

“And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation. For we would not, brethren, have you ignorant of our trouble which came to us in Asia, that we were pressed out of measure, above strength, insomuch that we despaired even of life: But we had the sentence of death in ourselves, that we should not trust in ourselves, but in God which raiseth the dead:” (2 Corinthians 1:7-9)

 

Today’s Morsel: If you will notice Paul’s letters to the churches, they are often written from his time in prison, or while he is facing some form of hardship or sentence. Many were out to kill Paul. Many of the Pharisees and Sadducees, religious leaders, and business owners, such as those who made the shrine of the goddess Diana, for sale, and even Satan, wanted to see Paul dead. Paul had a sentence of death on his life for his faith, belief, and his preaching and teaching about Jesus Christ. Paul knew that there was often one step between himself and death. But Paul had received a charge to preach the gospel. And he felt obligated to do so, no matter what may come his way. He did not put his trust in himself and in others for his safety. He put his trust in God who raised the dead. Even though he had a sentence of death upon his life, he told the church at Corinth: “For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” (2 Corinthians 5:1) The same way that Satan desired the kill Paul, he desires to kill the church as well. We who are born-again have a sentence of death upon us. Therefore, we must not trust in ourselves. We must trust in Him who is able to raise us from the dead. And that is our Lord Jesus Christ.

 

Sing: I trust in God, wherever I may be, upon the land or on the raging seas. For come what may, from day to day, my Heavenly Father, watches over, over, me. 

I trust in God, I know He cares for me, upon the land, or on the stormy seas; For come what may, from day to day, my heavenly Father watches over, over, me.

 

Thought For Today: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 16

 We Stand by Faith 

“Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth. Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith ye stand.” (2 Corinthians 1:23-24)

 

Today’s Morsel: The enemy’s goal is to cause you to quit, give up, and walk away from the calling of God. Many have given in to his desires. Many have quit because they did not have the patience to wait. Many have quit because they did not have the endurance to keep pursuing when they got tired. And many have quit because they lost hope and courage within themselves. When we as Christians give up, it is often because of our faith in Christ. Paul states that it is by our faith that we stand. If we fail to trust God and believe in God, we lose our ability to endure and be patient. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had faith to believe that God would deliver them from the fiery furnace. And so they stood by their faith. We know that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. But faith stands in the demonstration of the Spirit and of power. As Paul told the church at Corinth, “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5).  The Holy Ghost, the power in you, ought to cause you to keep standing no matter what comes your way. The same way that faith without works is dead, faith without belief and trust in God is dead also.  Use your faith to keep you standing strong.  

 

Sing: Standing on the promises of Christ my King, through eternal ages let His praises ring. Glory in the highest I will shout and sing. Standing on the promises of God. 

Standing, standing, standing on the promises of Christ my Savior. Standing, standing, I’m standing on the promises of God.

 

Thought For Today: “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ: By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.” (Romans 5:1-2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 15

 Comforting the Comfortless 

“Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also aboundeth by Christ. And whether we be afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope of you is stedfast, knowing, that as ye are partakers of the sufferings, so shall ye be also of the consolation.” (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that some folks fail to realize is that the gifts and blessings which God gives to us are not only for our benefit but also for the benefit of others. If we become hoarders of God’s blessing and gifts and do not use them for His purpose, He will take them away. Paul told the church at Corinth that God has comforted us in all our tribulation, so that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. Just what is the comfort of God? When we think of comfort, we think of coming along beside someone to give them assistance or aid to help in times of need. So, God comes along beside us and help us in our troubles, which shows His compassion and love, so that we can do the same for others. You know that grace and mercy that we have received from God ought to teach us how to comfort others.

 

Sing: I’m so glad that I’m a part of the family of God. I’ve been washed in the fountain, cleansed by His blood. Joint heirs with Jesus as we travel this sod. I’m so that I’m a part of the family of God.

 

Thought For Today: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 14

The Last Enemy

 

“The last enemy that shall be destroyed is death.” (1 Corinthians 15:26)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about warfare is that you must never leave your enemy in command of the battlefield. He must be destroyed. A lot of folks are afraid of death. But Jesus has already conquered death. Thus, there is nothing for us to fear about death or dying. Paul encourages us that to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord (2 Corinthians 5: 6,8). He told the church at Rome, “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:6-11) You see, if we remain in sin, and we struggle to overcome sin, we remain dead, and death will always plague us, cause us to fear, and stop us from reaching perfection. But when we are dead to sin, death has no more dominion over us, and we can rejoice daily knowing that soon we will rein with Christ forever.

 

Sing: Soon and very soon we are going to see the King. Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King. Soon and very soon, we are going to see the King, Hallelujah! Hallelujah! We are going to see the King.

No more dying there, we are going to see the King. No more dying there, we are going to see the King. No more dying there, we are going to see the King. Hallelujah! Hallelujah! We are going to see the King.

 

Thought For Today: “So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.” (1 Corinthians 15:54)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 12

Growing Your Measure

 

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 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. For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” (Romans 12:1-3)

 

Today’s Morsel: For us to move on unto perfection and to grow, it requires us to act upon ourselves. Peter admonishes us: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18) Notice, grow in grace and the knowledge of Jesus. What does that look like for you? For me, it means that I must come to a complete revelation of the truth. I must be complete in Christ. I must be fully persuaded that Jesus is God manifested in the flesh, justified in the spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the gentiles, and received back up into glory. I must be fully convinced within myself that the word of God is true and it is infallible. I must be fully persuaded that I am dead to sin, and alive in Christ. And I must do everything in my power to be ready for the coming of the Lord. If we don’t take matters into our own hands to grow, we will struggle in our walk with God. To grow our measure of faith, we must spend time in the Word of God and be at church, as faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.  On a scale of one to ten with ten being highest, where does your faith fall? “And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; And to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; And to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 1:5-8) There is your assignment for growing your faith. 

 

Sing: This faith that I have the world didn’t give it to me, this faith that I have the world didn’t give it me. This faith that I have, the world didn’t give it to me. The world didn’t give it and the world can’t take it away. 

 

Thought For Today: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”(Romans 10:17)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 11

Everything Doesn’t Edify

 

“All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” (1 Corinthians 10:23)

 

Today’s Morsel: In the church, one of the things the scriptures encourage us to do is to edify one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11). But Paul lets us know that all things do not edify us. Therefore, we must examine ourselves to ensure what we are saying to others and doing are encouraging and building them up. When we become adults, there are many things according to the law that we can do just because we are of a legal age. But just because we are of a legal age doesn’t mean that certain things are good for us, nor will they help us to grow spiritually and become more like Christ in His character. Somethings, even though they are legal, may present you as a sinner, and one who is far from God. Therefore, the things that we say and do ought to edify us and not cause us to wonder if we are pleasing to God or not. Self-edification ought to strengthen you, encourage you, and build you up. Therefore, if we are not following after those things which we may use to edify others, we will not be edified ourselves. “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.” (Romans 14:19) Do you know why you are doing what you are doing? 

 

Sing: There are so many wonderful things about Jesus, there just so many wonderful things about Him. There are so many wonderful things about Jesus, there just so many wonderful things about Him. He is the Mighty God, He’s the Everlasting Father, He is the Prince of Peace, He’s the Wonderful Counselor, there’s just so many wonder things about Him.

 

Thought For Today: “Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.” (Romans 15:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 October 10

Walking in The Spirit

 

“This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

 

Today’s Morsel: If someone were to ask you, how do you walk in the Spirit, what would you tell them? You see, oftentimes we may require others to do things that we ourselves may not know have done. For example, if you have never been married, your advice on marriage will find itself being useless to someone who may be thinking about getting married. If you have never travel abroad, again, your advice may find itself useless to someone who is thinking about traveling aboard. To tell someone to walk in the Spirit, if you yourself have never walked in the Spirit, or understand what it means, could be misleading and cause someone to become confused. To walk in the Spirit, first means that you must be filled with the Spirit. You can’t walk in what you do not have. Acts 2:1-4 says, “And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:1-4) They needed the Spirit to walk in it. And now when this happens, Christ is in you, the hope of glory. The Spirit of God. Your outward man must now be a total reflection of Christ; in actions, character, conduct, and discipline. “Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)As Christ is the Spirit. What is now inside you must be reflected outside of you. Christ in, Christ out. And to walk in the Spirit is to walk according to His Word and His leading, as Jesus is the Word made flesh. As John admonishes us: “He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:6). 

 

Sing: Let me walk with You Jesus. Don’t ever leave me alone. For without You I could never, no, never make heaven my home.

 

Thought For Today: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16)