Morning Mana by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 30

 Good Qualities 

“Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.” (Proverbs 27:2)

 

Today’s Morsel: A few days ago, I talked about not allowing that narcissistic spirit to attach itself to you. The world is being overran with this spirit and few wants to help others. When I was the Commandant of the U.S. Army, Quartermaster Center and School, some soldiers would come to school and would strive to be the honor graduate of their class and they would not try to help their fellow soldiers in anyway during the course. And so I changed the rules for a soldier to be considered to receive that honor. Each class was broken down into small groups of about 12-15 soldiers. And it would be those 12-15 soldiers from each small group that would select the soldier from their group that they felt had contributed most to others and the class during their time at the school. Those who were selected had good qualities that were seen and they were being honored by others. It has been stated that it is far more impressive when others discover your good qualities without your help.

 

Sing: I want to live the way He wants me to live; I want to give, until there’s just no more to give; I want to love, love, till there’s just no more love; I can never, never out love the Lord.

 

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 April 29

Try Hard Work

 

“Hard work always pays off; mere talk puts no bread on the table” (Proverbs 14:23 The Message Bible)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that I often given God thanks for is Him allowing me to be born and raised in the country on a farm. Even though we were a sharecropper’s kids and the work was oftentimes hard, I can say that I learned so much from that experience, and it has paid off. A lot of the lessons that I learned on the farm, I was not even aware of at the time.  Yet now that I have come into the church and the knowledge of the truth, I am aware of how much I learned as a child growing up.  Once I became born again, and began to read my Bible, and hear the messages being preached, I realized that most of the things that we learned on the farm were all taken directly from the Bible. When I read and heard the parable that Jesus told about the Sower, that he went to sow his seed, I could relate to what he was talking about. Our hard work paid off and I can say that there was not a day that I can remember in my life in which there was no bread on our table. We always had food to eat and, in some cases, we were able to feed others. Paul admonished the church at Thessalonica:“Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us. For yourselves know how ye ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you; Neither did we eat any man's bread for nought; but wrought with labour and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you: Not because we have not power, but to make ourselves an ensample unto you to follow us. For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.” (2 Thessalonians 3:6-10) I promise you; hard work will not kill you. It will leave a legacy for your family and others.

 

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

I’ll be somewhere working, I’ll be somewhere working, I’ll be somewhere, working for my Lord; I’ll be somewhere working, I’ll be somewhere working, I’ll be somewhere working for my Lord. 

 

Thought For Today: Handouts are okay, but you will never see yourself as a man if you don’t go to work. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 27

 Prayer 

“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night,” (Psalms 92:1-2)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that I have noticed about people lately is many of them do not know how to pray, nor do they value prayer. I’m not being critical, but prayer isn’t being taught much in the home and in the church. People don’t pray over their food anymore. They don’t pray over the offering they receive at church. They don’t pray before trips. And they don’t pray for our nation’s leaders.  As Paul told Timothy: “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;” (1 Timothy 2:1-3). One day, I was sitting in my recliner, reading my Bible, and my cellphone lit up to tell me how much time I had spent on my phone for the week. I was somewhat taken aback at the number of hours that I had spent on it. And so I asked myself, do I give that many hours to prayer and reading my Bible? Or am I wasting valuable time strolling through social media and news feeds? Scripture says, “And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;” (Luke 18:1) prayer is associated with not quitting and giving up. The psalmist states: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: To shew forth thy lovingkindness in the morning, and thy faithfulness every night,” Prayer ought to be the key to unlocking our morning, and the lock that secures it in the night. Jesus left us many examples to emulate Him by. And one of those was prayer. As Jesus told His disciples: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” (Matthew 26:41)

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.” (Psalms 42:8)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 26

Character

 

“And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth; I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.” (Revelation 3:7-8)

 

Today’s Morsel: It has been stated that personality has the power to open doors, but it is character that will keep them open. Doors will always be open to those whose conduct and actions are beyond reproach. That is why you need to be aware of every picture that you post, or word that you say on Facebook or other social media platforms. Someone is always watching you. Even your neighbors may be called on someday to testify of your character. I have received calls and e-mails asking me to rate people’s character who have put me on their job application for a character reference. But sad to say, some of them I have had to give a no comment, because I have seen some of their social media posts. Paul told the church at Rome: “Let not then your good be evil spoken of:” (Romans 14:16) Someone is always watching you. Even those in your own household. The story is told of a family that wanted to impress their new pastor by inviting him to their home for dinner. Everything was neat and in order. The family removed the T.V. from the living room and placed the Bible out on the coffee table. After dinner, they moved from the dining room to the living room for more comfortable seating. While sitting in the living room, little Sally was curious about the Bible on the coffee table. And so, she asked her parents, “Where did this book come from? I have never seen it before. And by the way, what happened to our television?”  David said: “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me.” (Psalms 101:2-3) Let me encourage you today. Character is those personality traits that set your apart and draw others to Christ through your life. Never think that it does not count. As the psalmist said, “Thy testimonies are very sure: holiness becometh thine house, O LORD, for ever.” (Psalms 93:5)

 

Sing: Holy, Holy, Holy. Holy, Holy, Holy. Holy is the Lord, God Almighty. And He is worthy to receive glory. Worthy to receive honor. Worthy to receive all my praise today. 

 

Thought For Today: “Strength of character isn’t always about how much you can handle before you break. It’s also about how much you can handle after you’ve been broken.” Robert Tew

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 25

Humility

 

“The fear of the LORD is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.” (Proverbs 15:33)

 

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture, we see the call for us to be humble and to walk humbly before God. Jesus said, blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. A life without humility is usually one which does not have a firm and solid life of prayer. Humility is not elevating yourself above others, nor is it using your position or authority to gain pleasure, profit, or personal safety. Humility is freedom from pride and arrogance. It’s living modestly. It is as Paul said: “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 12:3) Humility is being aware of your strengthens and weaknesses, and not putting on a pretense that you are something that you are not. Humility is being willing to adapt and listen to others so that you can learn and grow. Scripture says: “For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation.” (Psalms 149:4) Micah states: “Will the LORD be pleased with thousands of rams, or with ten thousands of rivers of oil? shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the LORD require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:7-8) And again Jesus said: “For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” (Luke 14:11) If you desire to be honored by both God and man, then you must learn to walk in humility, and God will bring it to fruition in your life.

 

Sing: I’m just a nobody, trying to tell everybody, about Somebody that can save anybody. 

 

Thought For Today: Only when we have knelt before God, can we stand before men.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 24

Oppression

 

“Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you; if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also.” (John 15:20)

 

Today’s Morsel: There seems to be a great onslaught of depression, oppression, confusion, and low self-esteem in the church these days. People seem to not know where to turn. Children are not wanting to attend school because it is boring. People are sitting on church pews playing with their electronic devices because they are not interested in church. People don’t want to go to work because it is boring. People don’t want to go out into nature because they may get bit by a bug. Fear is gripping their hearts.  Satan has blinded the minds of many that believe not. People have fallen into his trap and now find themselves worrying and confused. But the answer to fix these problems in found in the gospel. As Paul told Timothy: “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” (2 Timothy 4:2) The gospel is the answer. You can’t take Jesus out of the equation and expect people to build a relationship with Him. Church songs which used to be sung drew you to and caused you to be concentrated to Christ. But now it is all about strobe lights, bust your ear drums, and go home with a headache because of too loud of sound. But when Jesus was upon the earth, the noise the people heard was because Jesus was in the house. People sat and listened to what He had to say, and they were amazed at His doctrine.  As Jesus said: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.” (Luke 4:18-19) We’ve got to get back to the basics of the gospel, or people are going to be in an even worse condition then they are now.

 

Sing: Lord, take me back to the old landmark, help me make a new commitment, and begin a fresh start. Help me find my direction, place a burden in my heart. O’ Lord, take me back to the old landmark.

 

Thought For Today: “Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls...” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 23

Knowledge Is Powerful

 

“Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established: And by knowledge shall the chambers be filled with all precious and pleasant riches.” (Proverbs 24:3-4)

 

Today’s Morsel: Solomon says, “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.” (Proverbs 1:7) He tells us that a house is built by wisdom, and by understanding is it established. You don’t build a family in a shack or ruins when you have godly wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. These things only happen when these three things are missing from a life. As Solomon again states: “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.” (Psalms 127:1) Jesus even tells us where we should build our house. And that is upon the rock. David states: “The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.” (Psalms 18:2); “For who is God save the LORD? or who is a rock save our God?” (Psalms 18:31) Are you building your house upon the true rock?  Peter tells us how to build our house so that it doesn’t 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. But he that lacketh these things is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins. Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall:” (2 Peter 1:5-10) When the knowledge of Christ is absent, folks are subject to just throw anything together and call it a home. But as Paul told the church at Corinth: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

 

Sing: I thought number one would surely be me.  I thought I could be what I wanted to be.  I thought I could build on life’s sinking sand.  But now I can’t even walk without You holding my hand.  Lord, I can’t even walk without You holding my hand.  The mountains too high and the valleys too wide.  Down on my knees that’s where I learned to stand.  Oh Lord, I can’t even walk without You holding You holding my hand. 

 

Thought For Today: “For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.” (1 Corinthians 3:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 22

A Balanced Life

 

“Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” 

(James 4:14)

 

Today’s Morsel: How would you define life? Based on your definition, would you say that you are living or just existing? Do you know how to balance your life? Do you know how to manage your life? A balanced life is one where you may have many situations and circumstances coming against you, but you are able to maintain peace, confidence, and stability in Christ, with others, and yourself in them. A balanced life is not fazed by what others do or think. Living a balanced life is essential to physical and mental health. John states: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2) But notice, for this to happen your soul must prosper. Your inner man must be kept fed and in good health. But if you cannot balance your life, your health will probably suffer because of it. As Jeremiah states: “If thou hast run with the footmen, and they have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses? and if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?” (Jeremiah 12:5) If you can’t handle life when it’s easy, what will you do when it gets hard. A balanced life is a spirit filled life without all kinds of confusion, “For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace, as in all churches of the saints.” (1 Corinthians 14:33).

 

Sing: I’ve got a river of life flowing out of me, it makes the lame to walk and the blind to see.  It opens prison doors, sets the captives free. I’ve got a river of life flowing out of me. Spring up O’ well, within my soul; spring up O’ well and make me whole.  Spring up O’ well and give to me, new life abundantly.

 

Thought For Today: LIFE ... Living In Faith Every day. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 20

Let’s Change Courses

 

“And it came to pass, when the king had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes. And the king commanded Hilkiah, and Ahikam the son of Shaphan, and Abdon the son of Micah, and Shaphan the scribe, and Asaiah a servant of the king's, saying, Go, enquire of the LORD for me, and for them that are left in Israel and in Judah, concerning the words of the book that is found: for great is the wrath of the LORD that is poured out upon us, because our fathers have not kept the word of the LORD, to do after all that is written in this book.” (2 Chronicles 34:19-21)

 

Today’s Morsel: If we are not careful, we can find ourselves on a course that isn’t working. When I was in the army, there were times during Land Navigation Training, that I would get off course and could not find the point that I was looking for. But we had been taught that if we were to get off course, that we should return to the last known point and start again. Does it seem as though things in your life aren’t working? Then why not stop and evaluate your situation and see if you need to change courses. You don’t want to stay on the same old course that isn’t working for you. The ones that may be causing you heartache and pain. When the King Josiah heard the words of the Lord given to him, he realized that they were off course and were not following what God had said in His Word. He realized that they needed to reverse course immediate. When your situations and circumstances may be rewarding you evil instead of good, you may need to check God’s Word to see if you are off course. Always remember, if you find yourself walking in darkness, you are not in the will of God. As His Word is a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path. 

 

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

 

Thought For Today: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 19

 

Don’t Take on The Spirit of the Narcissist

 

“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth. Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips. A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.” (Proverbs 27:1-3)

 

Today’s Morsel: Narcissism seems to be taking center stage in the world. People are self-centered, self-important, and self-loved. It’s all about oneself. My space, my right, my life, my body, my church, my home, my money, my, my, my, it’s all about me. When we become self-centered and egotistical, we are headed for self-destruction. Solomon states that “A stone is heavy, and the sand weighty; but a fool's wrath is heavier than them both.” In other words, when it’s all about you, foolishness is about to bring you down. Jesus has already told us that without Him we can do nothing (John 1 5:5). So, keep that narcissistic attitude as far away from you as you can. A $5 bag of potato chips still has more air in the bag than chips. And God doesn’t have a problem with letting your air out and hanging your dirty laundry on the clothesline for everyone to see.  So, let me encourage you, “Do justly, and love mercy, and walk humbly with thy God?” (Micah 6:8) 

 

Sing: I’m so glad that the Lord saved me, I’m so glad that the Lord saved me. If it had not been for Jesus, where would I be. I’m so glad that the Lord saved me.

 

Thought For Today: “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” (James 4:14)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 18

How’s Your Self-Confidence?

 

“The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.” (Proverbs 28:1)

 

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that the word of God ought to do for us is give us self-confidence. Confidence within our own self and abilities. Paul said that the gospel did not come in word only, but also in power. That means that when you received the Holy Ghost, it gave you power to make right choices and decision. The power to stand on your own two feet and not let people push you around. The power to speak up for wrong and injustice. The power to confront wrong and to show people their errors. Boldness does not mean arrogancy or bullying. It means confidence. If the great commission is to be accomplished in and through you, then you are going to need self-confidence. Solomon states: “The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.” On a scale of 1-10 with 1o being highest, how’s your self-confidence?  If you are lacking, then Jesus says: “Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. 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. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:7-9)

 

Sing: He gives strength to me, as I worship Him, as my heart is filled with praise. Jesus breaks the bands, when I raise my hands, He gives glorious victory.

 

Thought For Today: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (2 Timothy 1:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 17

Distractions

 

“And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, These men are the servants of the most high God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour.” (Acts 16:16-18)

 

Today’s Morsel: In today’s world, the enemy is using many distractions to get us off track from accomplishing God’s purpose in our lives. Things such as political division, murder, suicide, discouragement, stress, sickness, and attacks on churches and religion.  These are all disruptions to take our focus off God. The woman in today’s passage was correct. Paul and his companions were there for one purpose, and that was to make Jesus known and to bring salvation to the people. But her actions and daily proclamation proved to be only entertainment and a show to disrupt God’s purpose and plan, and to make the people think that it was all a joke. Paul recognized the enemy’s goal and cast him out of her. Thus creating more disruption in the city which caused them much hurt. They were beaten and cast into prison, but God’s purpose was still done. As Christians, we ought not to think that distractions will not come. As Simon Peter admonished: “Knowing this first, that there shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.” (2 Peter 3:3-4) He continues: “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” (1 Peter 4:12-13) Jude admonished: “Beloved, when I gave all diligence to write unto you of the common salvation, it was needful for me to write unto you, and exhort you that ye should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints. For there are certain men crept in unawares, who were before of old ordained to this condemnation, ungodly men, turning the grace of our God into lasciviousness, and denying the only Lord God, and our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Jude 1:3-4); “Yet Michael the archangel, when contending with the devil he disputed about the body of Moses, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but said, The Lord rebuke thee.” (Jude 1:9); “These are murmurers, complainers, walking after their own lusts; and their mouth speaketh great swelling words, having men's persons in admiration because of advantage. But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, 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 1:16-23)

Stay focused, as the enemy of your soul is out as a roaring lion, not only to seek whom he may devour, but also to distract you from God’s purpose in your life.

 

Sing: I’m gonna make it, He’s already said that I would, I’ll keep on trusting, because I know He’s working all things for my good; He goes before me, and heaven is in my view, and I’m gonna make it through. 

 

Thought For Today: “And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits.” (Daniel 11:32)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 16

Listen To Your Body

“Is not my help in me? and is wisdom driven quite from me?” (Job 6:13)

Today’s Morsel: Paul writing to the church at Corinth states: “For the body is not one member, but many. If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body? If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling? But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.” (1 Corinthians 12:14-18)But are you listening to your body? These members that God has given you will often speak to you of things that are not right. Your feet might start to ache. Your eyes may start to lose their ability to read. Your hands and fingers may not be able to hold things as they once did. Your head may start to pound with a splitting headache. Your blood pressure may start to rise. I’m no doctor, but these are signs that something in the body is not working right. The same is true when you start to lose interest in church, reading your Bible, prayer, and witnessing to others. It’s your body telling you that something isn’t right. And you need to listen to what it is saying. John said, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2) In order for that to happen, you must listen to your body. You must realize that when your body speaks, you need to listen. Even Jesus told his disciples to come apart and rest awhile. 

Sing: I’ll say yes, Lord, yes, to Your will and to Your way. I’ll say yes, Lord, yes, I will trust You and obey. When Your Spirit speaks to me, with my whole heart I’ll agree, and my answer will be yes, Lord, yes. 

 

Thought For Today: “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God.” (Psalms 42:11)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 15

Working On The Building

 

“Now it came to pass, when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and Geshem the Arabian, and the rest of our enemies, heard that I had builded the wall, and that there was no breach left therein; (though at that time I had not set up the doors upon the gates;) That Sanballat and Geshem sent unto me, saying, Come, let us meet together in some one of the villages in the plain of Ono. But they thought to do me mischief. And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?” (Nehemiah 6:1-3)

 

Today’s Morsel: When we read the book of Nehemiah, there are just so many wonderful and awesome insights into what is taking place here. Nehemiah is the king’s cupbearer, who has found great favor with the king. From the time that he hears the news of the state of Jerusalem, he prays for direction from God about this situation. Not only does he find favor with the king, but he has also found favor with God. Nehemiah doesn’t tell the king what is going on until he first has a little talk with Jesus. This lesson should be heeded by all. I think if we would talk with Jesus about what is going on instead of others, we might not have so much confusion going on with our problems and situations. People have good intentions, but true advice only comes from God. Once Nehemiah takes inventory of the situation, he starts to rebuild, but he is seen as a rebel and one who must be stopped. His enemies do not want to see the building reconstructed. But the more his enemies entice him and try to discourage him, the more he continues to do what he has been called by God to do. When his enemies try to pull him away from the work, he tells them that he is doing a great work and that he cannot come down to meet with them. He understands that they have an agenda to hinder and harm him, but he’s not about to give them the time of day. This is an attitude that we all ought to have about the church and God’s kingdom. We ought not to give any of our time to the enemy who is trying to distract us from accomplishing what God has called us to do. Has the enemy been enticing you to come off the wall? Well, you are not the first. And he will not quit. So, keep building and you will receive a great reward.

Sing: I’m working on a building; It’s a true foundation. I’m holding up the blood-stained banner for my Lord.  Well, I never get tired, tired of working on the building; I’m going up to heaven to get my reward.

When you see me praying, I’m working on my building. I’m holding up the blood-stained banner for my Lord. As soon as I get through, working on my building, I gonna get to heaven to get my reward.

When you see me singing, I’m working on my building. I’m holding up the blood-stained banner for my Lord. As soon as I get through, working on my building, I gonna get to heaven to get my reward.

When you see me preaching, I’m working on my building. I’m holding up the blood-stained banner for my Lord. As soon as I get through, working on my building, I gonna get to heaven to get my reward.

When you see me crying, I’m working on my building. I’m holding up the blood-stained banner for my Lord. As soon as I get through, working on my building, I gonna get to heaven to get my reward.

 

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 April 13

 Temper Tantrum  

“He that hath no rule over his own spirit is like a city that is broken down, and without walls.” (Proverbs 25:28)

 

Today’s Morsel: Your temper is like a fire. If it gets out of control it can become very destructive. Therefore, we must learn how to control it before it causes us or others heartache and pain. Isn’t it amazing that the root word for temperance is temper. If we cannot control ourselves through self-discipline, the outcome is usually a temper tantrum where someone is abused or hurt. After his rebellion, King Saul was plagued with an evil spirit. And each time that spirit came upon him he had a temper tantrum. He tried to kill both David and His son Jonathan with a javelin. So, how do we control our temper so that we do not allow it to get out of control? Isaiah said: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3) When we focus continually on Jesus through our prayers and His word, it helps remove the temper we may have. Paul said that we should:“...put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of our mind; And that we should put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:22-24) and that we should “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath: Neither give place to the devil.” (Ephesians 4:26-27) (Emphasis mind) A temper tantrum is a sign that we do not know God. As He is a God of peace. If we do not get control of our conduct and actions, we are on our way to the worst kind of destruction that there is. And that is self-destruction. 

 

Sing: Jesus keep me near the cross, there a precious fountain; free to all a healing stream, flows from Calvary Mountain.

In the cross, in the cross, be my glory ever; Till my raptured soul shall find, rest beyond the river. 

 

Thought For Today: “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)

 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 12

The Five Rebellions of The Devil

 

“How art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations! For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will be like the most High.” (Isaiah 14:12-14)

 

Today’s Morsel: I often wonder what made Satan rebel against God knowing that he could not win. And I see this same spirit in the earth today. Rebellion against God and authority is taking center stage. Isaiah said, “And the loftiness of man shall be bowed down, and the haughtiness of men shall be made low: and the LORD alone shall be exalted in that day.” (Isaiah 2:17) So, what are these five rebellions of Satan against God. (1.) “I will ascend into heaven.” Jesus said that no man cometh unto the Father but by Me. (2.) “I will exalt my throne above the stars of God.” Scripture says that he that exalteth himself shall be a base (3.) “I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north.” Scripture says that the wicked shall not stand in the congregation of the righteous. I will not share my glory with another.  (4.) “I will ascend above the heights of the clouds.” God said, heaven is My throne, and the earth is my footstool.  (5.) “I will be like the most High.” God said, to whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be like? Do we wonder where this narcissist attitude we now see in the world came from? Remember what Solomon said, “A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit.” (Proverbs 29:23) As Isaiah spoke of Satan, “how art thou fallen from heaven, O Lucifer, son of the morning! how art thou cut down to the ground, which didst weaken the nations!”  Don’t let that Satanic spirit get on you. If you rebel against God, get ready to eat some dust.

 

Sing: I will bless the Lord at all times, His praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul shall make her boast in Thee Lord, the humble shall hear thereof and be glad. O’ magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt His name together. I sought the Lord and He heard me and delivered me from all of my fears.

 

Thought For Today: “For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” (1 Samuel 15:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 11

You Better Check Yourself

 

“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” 

(2 Corinthians 13:5)

 

Today’s Morsel: How often do you check yourself based on the word of God to see if you are still on track? Because many work outside the home and are bi-vocational, it’s easy to get off track. You can slowly be drawn right back into your own way of life if you are not careful. Worldly music that you grew up with. Laughing at risqué jokes, making false comments, altering your timecards, taking shortcut instead of doing a good job. Setting a poor example in appearance, taking sick leave when not being sick. We must be careful of gradualism. Jesus said that the man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and he fell among thieves, and they wounded him leaving him half dead.  Apparently, the man didn’t check himself to see if he had anything to defend himself. You must ensure that you have the sword of the spirit, and the weapons of your warfare with you and that you are ready always. Remember what the apostle Paul said, “But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ.” (2 Corinthians 11:3). Keep a close eye on yourself and your actions.

 

Sing: I put my foot on the rock, my name on the roll, when it’s called up yonder, I won’t worry about my soul; I know my home is waiting and it’s something to behold, because I put my foot on the rock and my name on the roll.

 

Thought For Today: “How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished!” (2 Samuel 1:27)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 10

You Left Your First Love

 

“For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed. Even from the days of your fathers ye are gone away from mine ordinances, and have not kept them. Return unto me, and I will return unto you, saith the LORD of hosts. But ye said, Wherein shall we return?” (Malachi 3:6-7)

 

Today’s Morsel: The Bible tells us that the day of the coming of the Lord will be proceeded by a great falling away. People are going to stop serving and loving God, and the things of God. We are already starting to see that happen. Since the Covid-19 Pandemic, many have yet to return to church. Many no longer carry their Bibles to church. Many have no clue as to the old hymns that their forefathers sang and proclaimed about God. Many do not know if Moses built the Ark or Noah. Sunday School stories of David and Goliath, Daniel in the lion’s den, and Jonah in the belly of the whale, are being replaced with science and video games. Church services about Jesus Christ and the Gospel, are now disco lights, three songs, 15-20 minutes messages about the world and its ways, baptisms without any explanation to it purpose, getting to the coffee bar for fellowship, which is no more than gossip, and away we go. And we wonder why people are suffering with mental health and PTSD. Jesus told the church at Ephesus:  “Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love. Remember therefore from whence thou art fallen, and repent, and do the first works; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will remove thy candlestick out of his place, except thou repent.” (Revelation 2:4-5) They had left their first love. They had allowed other things to replace Jesus in their lives. “And Jesus answered him, The first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment.” (Mark 12:29-30) Israel found themselves suffering and lost because they left their first love. You cannot live without Jesus. So, remember from which thou have fallen and repent and do the first works. “Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another.” (1 John 4:10-11) If you return to Him, He will return to you.

 

Sing: I love You Lord, and I lift my voice to worship You, oh my soul rejoice; Take joy my King, in what You hear; Let it be a sweet, sweet, sound, in Your ear.

We exalt Thee. We exalt Thee. We exalt Thee, O’ Lord. We exalt Thee. We exalt Thee. We exalt Thee, O’ Lord. 

 

Thought For Today: “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” (1 John 5:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 9

A Recall to Character

 

“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: Character is defined as the way someone thinks, feels, or behaves. In general, people who are considered to have good character often have traits like integrity, honesty, courage, loyalty, fortitude, and other important virtues that promote good behave.  I believe this is why grace is not only defined as God’s unmerited love, but also God’s divine influence in your life. God’s grace ought to cause you to restrain yourself from evil deeds and practices. Solomon said, “When wisdom entereth into thine heart, and knowledge is pleasant unto thy soul; Discretion shall preserve thee, understanding shall keep thee:” (Proverbs 2:10-11) David even proclaimed, “I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes: I hate the work of them that turn aside; it shall not cleave to me. A froward heart shall depart from me: I will not know a wicked person.” (Psalms 101:2-4) Do David’s words reflect your thinking? How much do you value your character? Remember, the heart is deceitful and desperately wicked who can know it. May we pray daily asking God to keep our hearts and minds pure and stayed on Him. Character still counts.

 

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: “Let not then your good be evil spoken of:” 

(Romans 14:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 8

The Graves of Lust

 

“And there went forth a wind from the LORD, and brought quails from the sea, and let them fall by the camp, as it were a day's journey on this side, and as it were a day's journey on the other side, round about the camp, and as it were two cubits high upon the face of the earth. And the people stood up all that day, and all that night, and all the next day, and they gathered the quails: he that gathered least gathered ten homers: and they spread them all abroad for themselves round about the camp. And while the flesh was yet between their teeth, ere it was chewed, the wrath of the LORD was kindled against the people, and the LORD smote the people with a very great plague. And he called the name of that place Kibrothhattaavah: because there they buried the people that lusted.” (Numbers 11:31-34)

 

Today’s Morsel: When we read our Bibles, we will notice that God speaks strongly against and hates lust. James tells us, “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) Notice, if you will, we can become tempted by our own lust. Lust is defined as the desire for anything sinful, such as illicit sex, intoxication, ill-gotten gain, revenge, or anything else that God forbids. James says that when it is conceived in your heart (mind), it brings forth sin, and when sin is finished it brings forth death. I just wonder when we drive by graveyards, how many of those deaths are due in part to a person’s lust? Paul said that in the last days folks would, “Have a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers’ lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:5-7) Lead away with different lusts. What are these divers lusts? Greed for success, financial gain, popularity, and again even sexual misconduct. James said, do not err my believe brethren. Don’t be fooled. Jesus said, see that no man deceives you. Paul said, and because of all these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. So, what is the answer to combat lust? Again, Paul said, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

 

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

 

Thought For Today: Don’t let lust become your graveyard.

Morning Mana by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 6

God’s Measurements

 

“And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD'S anointed is before him. But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:6-7)

 

Today’s Morsel: I often ask myself; I wonder what it would be like if our thoughts and ways were like God’s. Would that make us equal with God? My wife has always liked to measure the height of our grandkids anytime that they visit our home. She has a ten-foot board mounted in the garage so that she can keep track of their height.  When God measures a man, He doesn’t put a tape around is head or beside him; He places it around his heart. When the children of Israel lost their encouragement because of the evil report of the ten spies, God said of Caleb: “But my servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.” (Numbers 14:24) As Solomon instructs, as a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. (Proverbs 23:7). When Samuel went to anoint the new king of Israel, he was measuring Jesse’s sons by their birth and stature. But when God rejected the first born, God told him not to look on their stature because He looks on the heart. David, who was chosen, was called a man after God’s own heart. We see that David had a heart for the things of God. He was a praiser and worshipper of God. He had a great love and trust in God and for the things of God. When we become born-again, God gives us a new heart and takes that old stony heart away. If God were to show you your measurements today, how tall would you be?

 

Sing: I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and, over, and over, again (2x);

He gets sweeter and sweeter, as the days go by, oh what a love between my Lord and I.

I keep falling in love with Him, over and over and, over, and over again.

 

Thought For Today: How big is your heart for God?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 April 5

Something That God Doesn’t Know, And Yet He Is Still God

 

“Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no God; I know not any.” (Isaiah 44:8)

 

Today’s Morsel: How many times have you heard that God is omniscience? All knowing.  Well ... is that really a true statement? Well, God himself says that He doesn’t know everything. He doesn’t know any other God beside himself. (Humor) God is all knowing, and yet, He doesn’t know any other God. Paul states, “But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in him; and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things, and we by him.” (1 Corinthians 8:6) The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah, “Ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, and my servant whom I have chosen: that ye may know and believe me, and understand that I am he: before me there was no God formed, neither shall there be after me. I, even I, am the LORD; and beside me there is no saviour. I have declared, and have saved, and I have shewed, when there was no strange god among you: therefore ye are my witnesses, saith the LORD, that I am God.” (Isaiah 43:10-12) He even asked Abraham, “Is anything too hard for the LORD?” (Genesis 18:14) God doesn’t even know any other God nor anything that is too hard for Him. As John said: “And we know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding, that we may know him that is true, and we are in him that is true, even in his Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” (1 John 5:20) And Paul echoes this setiment when he says, “Howbeit there is not in every man that knowledge:” (1 Corinthians 8:7)

 

Sing: Everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, who Jesus is.  Everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, everybody ought to know, who Jesus is. 

He’s the lily of the valley, He’s the bright and morning star. He’s the fairest of ten thousand, everybody ought to know. 

Thought For Today: “To whom will ye liken me, and make me equal, and compare me, that we may be like?” (Isaiah 46:5)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 4

Patience

 

“He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.” (Proverbs 16:32)

 

Today’s Morsel: Two of the traits of character that came with the Holy Ghost are that of long-suffering, which is patience, and the 0ther is that of temperance, which is self-control. But what I find is that even though we are told of nine characters that came with the Holy Ghost by Paul, Galatians 5:22-23, we must use them and apply them if they are to grow and help us in life. God gives us everything that we have need of to be successful. But He’s not going to do the job to develop them for us. If you will notice, all the traits began with love. They flow from God who is love. That means that you must have a strong love for God, or else the others will not do you any good. You must have a strong love for truth, live truth, and abide in the truth.  Once God’s love starts to flow through you, you will begin to develop your patience by contentment. You start learning how to be satisfied with who you are and what you already have. You start to hold-on in your trials while you wait to see what the outcome will be. Patience is being like Peter, asleep in the jail, knowing that after Easter you may lose your head. Patience is being like Daniel, in a den of lions, knowing that the only one that can keep the lion’s mouths shut is God. Patience is being able to suffer for what you believe in, knowing that all things do work together for good to those who love God. Patience is no more than stepping back and evaluating the situation or circumstance that may be against you and developing a course of action to fix the issue without losing your head and peace. Let me encourage you, hang in there. Jesus has already told you that He will not leave you nor forsake you.

 

Sing: They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they should run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. Teach me Lord, teach me Lord, to wait.

 

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 Apr 3

Two Bad Things

 

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” 

(Ephesians 4:29)

 

Today’s Morsel: The Bible consistently calls for us to monitor our speech and words. Solomon tells us that death and life are in the power of the tongue (Proverbs 18:21). It has been said that there are two things that are bad for the heart. Running upstairs and running down people. I might not be able to understand that first, but the latter should never be done by a Christian. We must always remember that if our brother or sister offends us, we are to go to them and tell them their fault to them and not to others. Nor should we speak ill of them, as we must not allow any corrupt communications to proceed out of our mouth. James tells us,“Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” (James 3:9-10) Our words ought to not be for destruction of ourselves and others. They ought to be for edification and exaltation.

 

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: “Speak not evil one of another, brethren. He that speaketh evil of his brother, and judgeth his brother, speaketh evil of the law, and judgeth the law: but if thou judge the law, thou art not a doer of the law, but a judge.” (James 4:11)