Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 31

 Take Courage 

“And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he sent the multitudes away. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up into a mountain apart to pray: and when the evening was come, he was there alone. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with waves: for the wind was contrary. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto them, walking on the sea. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.” (Matthew 14:22-27)

 

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture we are told to be of good courage. Just what does that mean? Courage is the determination that one is not to allow fear to stop them. Being of good courage is having a faith driven boldness to stand against all opposition, fear, or any enemies that may come against you. To help Joshua be of good courage, the Lord told him to meditate on the Word of God, day, and night. There is just something about reading and studying God’s Word that builds us up. Paul says that within its pages we can find hope in time of trouble. David said that when it seems that darkness is all around us, it is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our pathway. And Jesus said that it is Truth. The disciples thought that what they were seeing was a ghost. Fear of the elements were pushing them into a state of demise and hopelessness. But from nowhere, they hear a familiar voice, the Word of God Himself saying Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. You see, this is why you need to read and study your Bible. Because that same voice that spoke to them still speaks to you and me saying the same thing. Let me encourage you today, fear not, be of good courage, wait I say on the Lord, and He shall strength your heart. 

 

Sing: Standing on the Rock of age, safe from all the storms that rages; rich but not of Satan’s wages, I’m standing on the Solid Rock.

 

Thought For Today: “And this word, Yet once more, signifieth the removing of those things that are shaken, as of things that are made, that those things which cannot be shaken may remain.” (Hebrews 12:27)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 30

 My Comforter 

“This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.” (Psalms 119:50)

 

Today’s Morsel: Jesus said that He would not leave us comfortless, but that He would come to us. He said that when the comforter is come, He will lead us and guide us into all truth. The Holy Ghost is our comforter. The psalmist said that this is my comfort in my affliction ... The word of God. It will revive him and edify him. The Holy Ghost should always keep you in a state of satisfaction and contentment. Even as Paul told Timothy: “Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:6-7) If you are feeling hopeless and unfulfilled, then stir up the Holy Ghost in you, and your relief will come. 

 

Sing: Let all God’s people praise the Lord. Let all God’s people praise the Lord. Shake off those heavy bands, lift-up those holy hands, let all God people praise the Lord.

 

Thought For Today: “Have you received the Holy Ghost since you have believed?”

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 29

 Let Go 

“A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;” (Ecclesiastes 3:6)

 

Today’s Morsel: Is it time for you to let go of something in your life that you have trusted for satisfaction? Some folks hate to lose. There are folks who go into depression because their sport teams lose a game. They become heartbroken if their friends move to a new location. The woman who lost her coin, swept until she had found it. Some people have a hard time with letting go and loss. The disciples of Jesus were even depressed after Jesus’ death. Scripture says, “And they talked together of all these things which had happened. And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them. But their eyes were holden that they should not know him. And he said unto them, What manner of communications are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad? And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast not known the things which are come to pass there in these days? And he said unto them, What things? And they said unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people: And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him to be condemned to death, and have crucified him. But we trusted that it had been he which should have redeemed Israel: and beside all this, to day is the third day since these things were done.” (Luke 24:14-21) We must be willing to let go, or it can put us in a state of depression. If we know, and we should, that all things do work together for good to them that love God, we should be willing to let go. Remember, your number one relationship, priority, and desire is Jesus. Everything and everyone else are second.  Keep Him first and He will see you through every loss. 

 

Sing: Though none go with me, still I will follow. Though none go with me, still I will follow. Though none go with me, still I will follow, no turning back, no turning, back.

 

Thought For Today: Is it time for you to let go of anything in your life that you have trusted for satisfaction?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 27

 Belief Always Proceeds Seeing 

“Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and wonders, ye will not believe.” (John 4:48)

 

Today’s Morsel: Most people will not believe until they see first. Scripture said, “And when the queen of Sheba heard of the fame of Solomon concerning the name of the LORD, she came to prove him with hard questions. And she came to Jerusalem with a very great train, with camels that bare spices, and very much gold, and precious stones: and when she was come to Solomon, she communed with him of all that was in her heart. And Solomon told her all her questions: there was not any thing hid from the king, which he told her not. And when the queen of Sheba had seen all Solomon's wisdom, and the house that he had built, And the meat of his table, and the sitting of his servants, and the attendance of his ministers, and their apparel, and his cupbearers, and his ascent by which he went up unto the house of the LORD; there was no more spirit in her. And she said to the king, It was a true report that I heard in mine own land of thy acts and of thy wisdom. Howbeit I believed not the words, until I came, and mine eyes had seen it: and, behold, the half was not told me: thy wisdom and prosperity exceedeth the fame which I heard. Happy are thy men, happy are these thy servants, which stand continually before thee, and that hear thy wisdom.” (1 Kings 10:1-8) She had heard but she did not believe until she had seen. Most folks will not believe that Jesus can heal, deliver, or set men free, until they have seen it happen. Yet once we have received the Gospel, scripture admonishes us to walk by faith and not by sight. In other words, believe and you will see it come to fruition. As the writer of Hebrews tells us, “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6) Jesus doesn’t say that all things are possible to him that can see. He says that all things are possible to him that can believe. 

 

Sing: I believe God. I believe God. That He will do, just as He said. Trust an obey believe Him and say, I believe, I believe God.

 

Thought For Today: “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.” (Mark 16:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 26

 The Gospel Still Works 

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” (Romans 1:16-17)

 

Today’s Morsel: The gospel according to the apostle Paul is the death burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The overall purpose of the gospel is to save and to change peoples lives. We are to obey Acts 2:38, “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.”   Then we are following and applying the gospel to our lives. Paul said that we are putting on Christ. And once we have the gospel applied to our lives, it is somewhat like putting on a brand-new suit for the first time. You feel good about yourself. You have a different walk. You see things differently. As Paul told the church at Rome:  For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. The gospel still works. I am a witness.  If people’s lives aren’t changed for the better, it doesn’t mean that they are bad and evil people, it means that they have not yet obeyed the gospel. “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.” (Mark 16:15-20) Have you obeyed Acts 2:38? It is never too late.   You can obey it today.

 

Sing: We have heard the joyful sound, Jesus saves, Jesus saves.  Spread the news all around, Jesus saves, Jesus saves. 

 

Thought For Today: “For for this cause was the gospel preached also to them that are dead, that they might be judged according to men in the flesh, but live according to God in the spirit.” (1 Peter 4:6)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 25

 There Is No Crash Course That You Can Take for Character 

“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)

 

Today’s Morsel: Some folks thinks that the epistles are letters written to sinners. But they are not. They are letters written to saints. The Epistles are letters of character for saints to obey and follow. You see, we are to be Christ’s witnesses in the earth, and that begins with our character. But if we do not read our Bibles, we will be void of character in our life and represent Satan more than Jesus. The same way that the book of Proverbs is designed to teach us wisdom, the Epistles are designed to teach us character. The Epistles are written to help us understand what we must be, know, and do as Christians. If you want to know how to build your character, Paul said, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16) Remember, every day you are building your character by what you say and do and the places you go. You can compromise on a lot of things, but your character had better not be one of them or you may never get it back.

 

Sing: Well, I’ve been changed, I am newborn now, all my life, have been rearranged. What a difference it made since the Lord came to stay; in my heart, oh yes, I’ve been changed. 

 

Thought For Today: “For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” (James 3:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 24

 Are You Enjoying Life? 

“Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” 

(John 5:39-40)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the reasons that Jesus told Nicodemus for His coming to the earth was so that people might have eternal life (John 3:16). But sad to say, some folks will spend their enter life on earth and will never live. They will only exist. They will spend 50, 60, 70, 80, and in some cases 90 years here on earth and will never live. Even today, there are many so called Christians that are not living but only existing. They go to church two or three time each week, go home, turn on the TV, plop down at the computer, go to bed, get up and go to work, and repeat the same old cycle repeatedly. That my friend is existing not living. Living is when you get wrapped up in Jesus and allow Him to direct your steps throughout the course of your day. It is taking the word that you hear on Sunday and Wednesday, or whenever you go to church, and sowing that seed into the heart of others. Living is knowing that you have been born-again and are now on your way to heaven to be with Jesus. Living is setting a vision for yourself and some goals and striving to see those come to fruition. Peter said “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: If so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious, Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” (1 Peter 2:1-5) We are to be lively stones not dead ones. 

 

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: Why don’t you start acting like your coat tail is on fire, or a wasp just went down the back of your blouse.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 23

 The Law 

“The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.” (Psalms 19:7)

 

Today’s Morsel: God gave the law to Moses for him to teach the children of Israel, and which is for us, to change their behavior. The law was about relationship with others. It was about unity, faithfulness, brotherly love, kindness, obedience, peace, and respect for oneself and others. The writer of Hebrews informs us, “For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God.” (Hebrews 7:19) Speaking of that better hope, Paul wrote: “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us; Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace; And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby: And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.” (Ephesians 2:14-17) The law may not be able to make a man love me, but it can restrain him from killing me. The law may not be able to change a person’s heart, but it can restrain him from being heartless. It may not be able change a man’s heart, but it sure can break his behavior.

 

Sing: I love Him too much to fail Him now, too much to break my vow. For I promised the Lord that I would make it somehow; and now I love Him too much to fail Him now.

 

Thought For Today: “Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the prophets: I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled.” (Matthew 5:17-18)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 22

 A Walk In The Park 

“And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. And the LORD God called unto Adam, and said unto him, Where art thou?” (Genesis 3:8-9)

 

Today’s Morsel: When is the last time you have gone to the park and just sat on the bench and watched people go by and children play? Or when is the last time you’ve gone to the park, got on a swing, and just returned to your childhood? To me, parks are designed to help reduce anxiety, depression, and stress, as they allow you to focus on nature and get fresh air into your lungs. One of the major causes of stress is not enough fresh air flowing to the brain. If you stay inside too much, life can close in on you. I always tell people who have office jobs and work at computer that they must get up and go outside at least once every two hours. Doing this will help you stay focused and not be overcome with stress.  When God created Adam and Eve and placed them in the garden, it was like a perfect park. They could walk and talk with God, eat from all the trees other than the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, and they could even play with and observe the animals. Come on, don’t become a couch potato or a computer junkie, get up and get outside. There’s a big park waiting for you to come to and have some fun.

 

Sing: Every day with Jesus, is sweet than the day before. Every day with Jesus, I love Him more and more. Jesus saves and He keeps me; He’s the One that I’m waiting for. Every day with Jesus, is sweet than the day before. 

 

Thought For Today: Go outside and make a snowman!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 20

 Don’t Forsake That Which Can Make You Better

“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.” (Proverbs 4:7-9)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the greatest values of the word of God other than our salvation is that it makes us better. The word of God is a character book. When we read and follow it, it will cause us to be strong and to have good success (Joshua 1:7-9).  The problem with the world today, is not that people in themselves are mean and evil, it is that they do not have wisdom within themselves to understand who they are and how they are to live. Solomon states, “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.” Wisdom will honor you if you embrace her. But if you reject her, she says “I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear cometh; When your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind; when distress and anguish cometh upon you.” (Proverbs 1:26-27). Don’t reject wisdom.  Godly wisdom is what you need to navigate through this life.

 

Sing: You can take this whole world but give me Jesus. You can take this whole world but give me Jesus. You can take this whole world but give me Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.  

 

Thought For Today: “Now ye are clean through the word which I have spoken unto you.” (John 15:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 19

 Even An Ant Understands Wisdom

“Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.” (Proverbs 6:6-8)

 

Today’s Morsel: Our picnic pests, the ants, will not be seen by us for several months now here in Wisconsin. They will be deep within their habitation enjoying the winter and living with ease because they have stored away all the hotdogs, chicken, fruit, and ribs that we threw to the ground during the spring, summer, and fall. They know that winter was coming and so they prepared. The Bible tells us to observe them. The ants reveal to us the importance of preparing ahead for the unforeseen.  They don’t wait for winter to look for food. They get it when it is most plentiful. This is why, I believe, that it is essential that we go to church as much as we can while we are able to drive, walk, and can hear. It helps us prepare. Because should the Lord tarry, there may come a time that we cannot go to church and hear the word of God as we could have when we were younger. We should even be hiding the word in our heart through memorization, and daily Bible reading, so that if our Bibles are taken away some day, we will still have the word deep within our heart. As David said: “Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” (Psalms 1:1-3) Are you getting ready?  Prepare today for what may come tomorrow.  

Sing: Well, I’m getting ready to leave this place, I’m getting ready for those gates of pearls.  Keeping my record straight, watching both day and night. Well, I’m getting ready to leave this place. 

 

Thought For Today: “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” (Matthew 24:44)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 18

 When Heaven Meets Hell at The Weak Point 

“Then was Jesus led up of the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, And saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down: for it is written, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee: and in their hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them; And saith unto him, All these things will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and ministered unto him.” 

(Matthew 4:1-11)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that you must learn and know is that Satan will not attack you or tempt you when you are strong and in your right mind. He’s going to do it when you are tired, weak, and weary. Scripture says that Jesus had fasted forty days and forty nights, and that He was afterward hungered.  And so, Satan thought that he would play upon His weakness.  But what he failed to realize was, that even though Jesus was hungry, He still had power to defeat his chief enemy. You see, Satan observes you and he does his very best to catch you at a moment of weakness so he can play on your mind to pull you down. But you must realize that Jesus has given you power to tread over him. Remember, you belong to God.  You are not your own, you have been brought with a price. You must keep the Word of God in your heart and be ready for Satan when he comes. As he will come. And often his coming is in your moment of weakness. So, when you meet hell at your weak point, just make sure you know what is in the Word of God, that it is hidden in your heart, and then Satan will leave you alone.

 

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

 

Thought For Today:  Standing on and knowing the truth will defeat your enemy every time.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 17

 Search Me, Oh God 

“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” (Psalms 139:23-24)

 

Today’s Morsel: Scripture tells us that as a man thinketh in his heart so is he (Proverbs 23:7). Just what is in your heart. Just what is in your mind? Is it a sound mind or a confused mind? Is it a mind stayed on Jesus? Or a mind stayed on itself? Is it a mind working for God? Or a mind working for the devil? Is it a mind filled with good thoughts? Or a mind cluttered with trash? When is the last time you have asked God to search your heart? David found that his heart was not right after his relationship with Bathsheba. And so he prayed “Cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me” (Psalms 19:12). Our actions are an indicator of what is inside of us.  Wrongdoing is an indicator of an unclean heart. David also prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalms 51:10). An unclean heart can be nasty, causing us to say and to do things that if it was not in such a state would not happen.  So, why do we need God to search our heart? Because He is the only one that knows what is inside of us. Jeremiah wrote, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” (Jeremiah 17:9-10) If I become what I think, then I want God to search me daily to ensure nothing that can destroy me, to be certain that nothing has crept in unawares. 

 

Sing: Search me, O God, and know my heart today. Try me, O Savior, know my thoughts, I pray. See if there be some wicked way in me; cleanse me from every sin, and set me free.

 

Thought For Today: “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” (Psalms 19: 14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 16

 Heaven 

“Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones; for I say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold the face of my Father which is in heaven.” (Matthew 18:10)

 

Today’s Morsel: What comes to your mind when you think or read about heaven? Is it a place that you are excited about going? Or is there some apprehension about your new location? Scripture says, “But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” (Hebrews 11:16) The patriarchs were looking for that new heaven and new earth. Jesus tells us not to lay up our treasures here on earth where rust and moth corrupt, and where thieves break in and steal. But to lay them up in heaven. In other words, put your treasure where you are planning and desiring to go, and that is where your heart will be. Now think about that saying for just a moment. Is it any wonder why folks are afraid of dying? Their treasures are here on earth. All their money, CDs, investments, and children are right here on earth. And so they don’t want to leave them. But if they were to commit these things to the Lord, it probably wouldn’t faze them so much about leaving. As Paul admonishes us, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4) Have you made up your mind about where you want to go? I’m going to city that is prepared for me, hope to see you there!

 

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

 

Thought For Today: Heaven or hell, they are both eternal.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 15

 Who Is the Person in The Mirror?

“But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was.” (James 1:22-24)

 

Today’s Morsel: What do you see when you look into the mirror each day? Do you see a person who is loved by God? Or do you see a person filled with anxiety, fear, and worry? Some folks when they look in the mirror and see themselves don’t like what they see. And so they immediately seek for ways to change themselves. They put on makeup, jewelry, wigs, toupees, fake eyelashes, they grow beards, get Botox shots in their face, and God forbid if they see gray in their hair. The hair dye bottle is coming out to wash it away. But that gray represents wisdom if it is found in the ways of the Lord. As Christians, when we look into the mirror, we should see the beauty of the Lord, what He has made and what he is doing in our lives. Remember, beauty is only skin deep.  So as Christians you should be more concerned with your character than your outward looks. It has been stated that folks who spend their time and efforts trying to make the flesh look good and not the Spirit, have already lost out with God. The Lord asked, “Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil.” (Jeremiah 13:23) If folks were to spend as much time looking into the prefect law of liberty, the word of God, as they do in the natural mirror and trying to make the flesh perfect, they would see just how beautiful they already really are, and they will not need to waste their time and money on falsehood. 

 

Sing: When I look into Your holiness, when I gaze into Your loveliness, and the things that around become shadows in the light of You; When I find the joy of reaching Your heart, when my will becomes enthroned in Your love, and the things that surround become shadows in the light of You.

I worship You; I worship You, the reason I live, is to worship You, You, You; I worship You; I worship You, the reason I live, is to worship You.

 

Thought For Today: Live your life for God, not this world.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 13

 Jesus Paid It All

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

 

Today’s Morsel: The story is told of a man that was very hungry. And he had no money. But he had heard a message at church that Jesus had paid it all. So he went into a restaurant and ordered a huge meal. The man dined well. When the waiter brought him the bill, the man wrote on the bill, already pain in full, Jesus paid it all (humor). I suggest that you do not try this. But then again, it might work since we walk by faith and not by sight. John 3:16, is a verse that expresses God’s love toward us. Jesus told Nicodemus that God gave His Son so that others would not perish. Jesus Christ was the spotless Lamb to take away our sins. Yes, He paid the price for our sins at Calvary. With His death, He defeated sin. This is why when we die through repentance, it is also supposed to defeat sin in our lives. Jesus paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we could live and enjoy newness of life and then later eternal life. The only cost is that you must believe it and accept it and live it.

 

Sing:  Jesus paid it all; all to Him I owe; sin had left a crimson stain, He washed it white as snow.

 

Thought For Today: “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins...” (Hebrews 10:26)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 12

Life’s Failures

 

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)

 

Today’s Morsel: The Greek word for longsuffering is Makrothymia; which means patience, endurance, constancy, steadfastness, and perseverance. And we find that many of life’s failures are due in great part because of a lack of it. Many do not have the ability to endure and remain constant in their walk with God. Especially when they are enduring difficulties in their lives. Folks do not like suffering, pain, and troubles in their lives. But these things are not bad, they are life builders. People often want peace and contentment without the challenge, which is long-suffering.  But sad to say, what we oftentimes find is that the guilty party and enemy which causes a lack of these things in our lives is us. But we don’t like to be the guilty party for our failures. It must be something or someone else that is causing these things in my life. In the movie the Wizard of OZ, why did Dorothy find herself in trouble? She kept getting off the yellow brick road. Why did Israel keep having trouble in the wilderness? They kept murmuring and complaining. Why did the Lord tell Jeremiah that the people didn’t have rest? Because they would not do what He told them to do (Jeremiah 6:16). Life’s failures have to do with you. Not someone else. You can blame someone else, but the crown and the road for a successful life was given to all by Jesus at Calvary.  It is up to me to take accountability for myself.

 

Sing: Peace! Peace! Wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above; sweep over my Spirt forever I pray, in fathomless bellows of love.

 

Thought For Today: “In your patience possess ye your souls.” (Luke 21:19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 11

My Hope Is In Jesus 

 

“But, beloved, we are persuaded better things of you, and things that accompany salvation, though we thus speak. For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister. And we desire that every one of you do shew the same diligence to the full assurance of hope unto the end: That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises. For when God made promise to Abraham, because he could swear by no greater, he sware by himself, Saying, Surely blessing I will bless thee, and multiplying I will multiply thee. And so, after he had patiently endured, he obtained the promise. For men verily swear by the greater: and an oath for confirmation is to them an end of all strife. Wherein God, willing more abundantly to shew unto the heirs of promise the immutability of his counsel, confirmed it by an oath: That by two immutable things, in which it was impossible for God to lie, we might have a strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an high priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec.” (Hebrews 6:9-20)

 

Today’s Morsel: Just what is hope that we should desire it? Solomon says that when it is delayed in coming it makes the heart sick. Paul said that we are saved by it. Peter said that God has gotten us by it. And John says that it causes us to purify ourselves. So just what is it. Hope, like faith, is the confidence in what we are hoping for. But why must our hope be in Jesus? Because He is the one that we are hoping for. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved”, Peter said (Acts 4:12) With this advice shouldn’t our hope be in the one that can save us and the One we are longing for?  Our hope must be in Jesus because He is the anchor of our soul and the only One that can save us, deliver us, and make us new.

 

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

Thought For Today: “Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.” (Proverbs 13:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 10

Faith Kills Fear If You Believe

 

“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? And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith? And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mark 4:35-41)

 

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture we are told to not fear. We know that fear is just False Evidence Appearing Real. But it is one of the weapons that Satan employs to defeat us. And sad to say, two of greatest fears that he uses are the fear of death and the fear of others. The only way you will ever defeat fear is to walk by faith and not by sight. Fear will frighten you and cause you to go into a deep state of self-torment. Fear oftentimes will cause a negative reaction instead of a positive reaction.  Nail biting, sleepless nights, excessive use of medication, and overeating. Fear will zap you of your energy and strength. When the disciples thought that they were going to die because of the storm, Jesus rebuked the wind and the waves, and then He asked His disciples why they were fearful and did not have any faith. If you want to kill fear in your life, then you must have faith within yourself to believe that you are an overcomer, and nothing will defeat you.

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God.” (Luke 1:30)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 9

One More Year

 

“He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.” (Luke 13:6-9)

 

Today’s Morsel: If you knew that you only had maybe one more year to live, what would you do differently? Have you considered eternity lately? Knowing that tomorrow is not promised, what are you doing daily to ensure that you are ready? I sometimes hear folks at funerals speaking of the deceased, “Oh, they were so young.”  Or “I can’t believe that he or she died.” I do understand the comforting statement, but tomorrow is not promised to any of us. Jesus’ simply said, Be ready. Jesus’ parable here should enlighten us to the importance of spiritual growth, bearing fruit, and soul winning. Jesus informs us with this parable that this was not the first time this man came seeking for fruit on this fig tree. It was the third time. He had been disappointed three times that this tree had produced nothing in three years. And so, he said, cut it down. You see, I believe, that if you have been born again for three years, there ought to be great spiritual growth and some spiritual fruit in your life. And you should have led somebody to Christ. But if after three years you have none of these things to showing in your life, maybe you should consider strongly what you are doing that these things are not happening. The great commission still applies to everyone or us.  Solomon states, “Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.” (Psalms 92:13-15) None of us are promised tomorrow.  Be ready today.  

 

Sing: Aren’t you just a bit tired of fooling around, you try to laugh your way through this life, but you are not gaining ground. Why not try the Lord today, just ask Him in your heart to stay; and you’ll find that Jesus is the best thing that you’ve every found. 

Jesus got ahold of my life, and He won’t let me go. Jesus got into my heart, He got into my soul. I used to be oh so sad, but now I’m happen free and glad; because Jesus got ahold of my life, and he won’t let me go.

 

Thought For Today: Is it time for you to start doing a little digging and dunging?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 8

Are You Christ’s Friend?

 

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.” (John 15:13-15)

 

Today’s Morsel: They say that friends are supposed to be those you can rely on, and those who are faithful and loyal. Jesus told His disciples that they were His friends if they did what He had commanded them. First, you must realize that someone who says that they are your friend is not going to ask you to do anything that is illegal or immoral. As a friend always loves. Even when I was in the military, we had a tele-merical that said, “Friends don’t let friends drive drunk.”  A friend is going to look out for you. They have your best interest at heart. Are you Jesus’ friend? Can He depend on you to do what He has commanded you? Do you take His word to heart and obey it? Remember, you did not choose Christ, He chose you. And He wants you to have great success.

 

Sing: Who am I that You are mindful of me, that You hear me, when I call. Is it true that You are thinking of me, how You love me? It’s amazing.

I am a friend of God, I am a friend of God, I am a friend of God.  He calls me friend.  

 

Thought For Today: “Can Jesus depend on you?”

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker -2024 January 6

I Am A Child of God

 

“He came unto his own, and his own received him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name:” (John 1:11-12)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the greatest values of the new birth is that it makes us sons and daughters of God. Paul states: “For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:26) He also told the church at Rome, “For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God: And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.” (Romans 8:14-17) When God puts His spirit in us, it brings us into His family. I hear people say that folks commit suicide because they are lonely, depressed, and saddened, and it is because they have no friends or anyone to talk to. I don’t understand that because God’s family is a very big family. Scripture tells us that a man that would have friends must show himself friendly and that there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. I have come to realize, since my new birth experience, that I have a lot of brothers and sisters of all races, colors, nationalities, and cultures. The new birth experience is for the making of sons and daughters in the kingdom and family of God. I wonder if we were to check with ancestor.com if they could link us back to our spiritual roots.  Reach out and find your family connections in the family of God.  You will be glad you did.  We need each other.  

 

Sing: You’re my brother, you’re my sister, so take me by the hand, together we will work until He comes. There’s no foe that can defeat us, when we’re walking side by side; as long as there is love, we can stand. 

 

Thought For Today: Have you considered seeking for some of your brothers and sisters today?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 5

Come As You Are You Can Change Inside

 

“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 4:21-24)

 

Today’s Morsel: A few days ago, as I was driving to church, I noticed a church’s marque which stated, “Come as you are, you can change inside.”

Sad to say, this is how some churches today think. They tell people to just come as you are, and they never tell them nor teach them what they need to do to change. Yes, you can come as you are, but God never intended for you to stay that way. The gospel is supposed to cause people to see themselves for who they are which should cause them to see that they need to change who they are. At the First New Testament Church, when they Holy Ghost was poured out and Peter began to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ, scripture says: “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:37-42) They saw that they needed to change, and they did. As Jesus told Nicodemus when he came to him by night, “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.” (John 3:5) Yes, you can come as you are, but you should not expect to stay that way. You must be born again.

 

Sing: Born-again, there has been a change in me. Born-again, just like Jesus said. Born-again, and all because of Calvary, I’m so glad that I’ve been born-again.

 

Thought For Today: If nothing changes, nothing changes!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 4

His Mercy Endureth Forever

 

“It is of the LORD'S mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.” (Lamentations 3:22-23)

 

Today’s Morsel: Mercy...Not getting what you deserve, some say. But just what is mercy that God renews it every morning? Why does the scripture tell us to come boldly to the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy? (Hebrews 4:16) Just what is it?  Mercy appears in the Bible as it relates to forgiveness or withholding punishment. I am sure that many of our parents showed us great mercy when we were kids, when we failed to do what they told us to do. When we should have received punishment for our actions, they forgave us and allowed us to go free. This is what mercy looks like. And it is what God does on a continual basis for us. But don’t take it for granted. Like your parents, God will get tired of allowing you to go free. The Psalmist states: “If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.” (Psalms 130:3-4) We need to learn to respect and honor our Heavenly Father. Aren’t you glad that He loves you enough to forgive you for your wrong? Well, if you are, then it ought to cause you to love and respect Him the way that He deserves. 

 

Sing: Years I spent in vanity and pride caring not my Lord was crucified; Knowing not it was for me He died on Calvary.

Mercy there was great, and grace was free; Pardon there was multiplied to me; There my burdened soul found liberty, at Calvary.

 

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 3

Godliness With Contentment

 

“But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.” (1 Timothy 6:6-8)

 

Today’s Morsel: Novelist David F. Wallace said, “If you worship money, you will never have enough.” “If you worship your body and beauty, you will always see yourself as ugly.” “If you worship intellect, you will always see yourself as stupid.” Maybe this is why some folks are having trouble with themselves. They are not content with who they are and what they already have. Contentment means the acceptance of things as they are, knowing that our God knows all things and what is good for us. Contentment springs out of our understanding and relationship with God. When our relationship and understanding of God is cemented, we know that nothing can separate us from Him.  As Jesus said, you don’t need worry about what you shall eat and wear.  He already knows that we have need of those things. So, all we need to do is just seek first the Kingdom of God, which is the Holy Ghost, and the things we need will be added. And that even includes our contentment with what we have and who we are. But if the Holy Ghost isn’t present and stirred up daily, discontentment will control you.

 

Sing: I have found His grace is all complete, He supplies my every need; While I sit and learn at Jesus feet, I am free, yes, free indeed. 

It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, full of glory, full of glory; It is joy unspeakable and full of glory, oh the half has never yet been told.

 

Thought For Today: “For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” (1 Timothy 6:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 2

The Key to Overcoming the Flesh

 

“Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the greatest enemies that you must defeat is yourself. Or should I say, your flesh. One of the reasons it is hard for most people to overcome their flesh is because that is where we all live. We are all humans living in this flesh.  God knew that we all would sometimes struggle with our flesh. You see, from the time that we are born our flesh is made strong so that we can grow and become strong to survive. We give it everything it needs to become successful. Well, after we along with our parents have made it strong so that we could grow and become productive men and women, we now must stop it from controlling and destroying us. Jesus told Peter, James, and John to watch and pray because the flesh was weak. Jesus wasn’t telling them that the flesh was weak in the natural sense; but I believe that the admonishment here was that God wanted them to understand that prayer would give them power and stamina to keep their flesh under control. I also, believe, that Jesus has given us the tools we need to help us combat and defeat our flesh. With the fruit of the spirit came the trait of temperance. This fruit is not separate where one is higher than the other, they are all a manifestation of that one and self-same spirit.  So, the character of temperance, which is self-control, must be used to control yourself. This is why Solomon states, “He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” (Proverbs 25:28)With the Holy Ghost in you, if you can’t control you, then Houston we’ve got a problem. Nothing is greater than God. When it seems that your flesh is trying to take over, you just need to rein yourself in and say no.  And so, to help us do that Jesus gave us His Spirit and He tells us to allow It to lead us and to guide us into obedience, and we will be strong enough spiritually and we will overcome our flesh. As Paul admonishes us: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

 

Sing: Would you be free from your passion and pride? There’s power in the blood, power in the blood.  Sin stains are lost in its life-giving flow, there’s wonderful power in the blood.

There is power, power, wonder working power, in the blood of the Lamb. There is power, power, wonder working power in the precious blood of the Lamb.

 

Thought For Today: “Walk in the Spirit and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh.”

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 January 1

 You Have Not Passed This Way Before 

“And Joshua rose early in the morning; and they removed from Shittim, and came to Jordan, he and all the children of Israel, and lodged there before they passed over. And it came to pass after three days, that the officers went through the host; And they commanded the people, saying, When ye see the ark of the covenant of the LORD your God, and the priests the Levites bearing it, then ye shall remove from your place, and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure: come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go: for ye have not passed this way heretofore.” (Joshua 3:1-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: Well, we have crossed over into another year. It seems like only yesterday that folks were calling us in Japan to see if we were still alive because of Y2K. And I thought to myself, why are they calling us? If the world has ended, it’s ended for everyone. After wandering in the wilderness for forty years, the children of Israel, now a new generation, were preparing to cross into the Land of Promise. Now God was now ready to perform His promise which He had made to their forefathers. The command given by Joshua to his leaders was that they were to tell the people which were under their control to keep their eyes on the Ark of the Covenant, because they had not been that way before. Think about that for a moment. Even in all their murmuring and rebellion, God was still willing to go before them and fulfill His promise. Talk about a loving and caring God.  And here you and I are today. We have crossed over into another year. At this moment we do not know what life ahead holds for us. But we do have God’s promise that He will not leave us nor forsake us. He has promised to be with us every step of the way if we hold to His word and commandments. Therefore, we must keep our eyes on Jesus because we have not been this way before, and then He will lead us to the Land which He has also promised us.

 

Sing: Where He leads me, I will follow; Where He leads me, I will follow; Where He leads me, I will follow. I’ll go with Him, with him, all the way.

 

Thought For Today: “Keep your eyes on the prize”