Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 31

Conduct

“A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.” (Matthew 12:35)

Today’s Morsel: Who are you? What do people say about you? Just who is the man in the mirror? Scripture tells us, “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. Let thine eyes look right on, and let thine eyelids look straight before thee. Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left: remove thy foot from evil.” (Proverbs 4:23-27) This is one of the reasons why we must keep an eye on our heart. David cautions us: “Who can understand his errors? cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression. 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 19:12-14); “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) Always remember, our hearts have no secrets that our conduct does not reveal. 

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 not then your good be evil spoken of:” (Romans 14:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 30

Newness of Life

“What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein? Know ye not, that so many of us as were baptized into Jesus Christ were baptized into his death? Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.” (Romans 6:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: One of the greatest blessings that comes with being born again, is newness of life. A brand-new life. Every wrong that we did prior is now washed away through the blood of Jesus Christ. This new life should reflect you trading in your old jalopy and getting a brand-new car. You get to start all over afresh and anew. Your new life now affords you the opportunity to do better, be better, and accomplish something great with your life. It affords you the opportunity to work for Jesus, teach others about Him, and share with others what He has done for you. Your new life is given to you so that you can make right choices and right decisions without things hanging over your head. You can now walk with your head up and not worry about what others may think or say about you. You have been raised from the dead. So, the next time someone accuses you of your past, just tell them that you are a new creature in Christ Jesus.  You have no past!

Sing: I’ve found a new way of living, I have a new life divine; I have the Fruit of the Spirit, I am abiding, abiding, in the vine. Abiding, in the vine, abiding in the vine, love, joy, health, peace, He has made them mine; I have prosperity, power and victory, abiding, abiding, in the vine. 

Thought For Today: “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 29

Prayer

“Now when I had delivered the evidence of the purchase unto Baruch the son of Neriah, I prayed unto the LORD, saying, Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee: Thou shewest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them: the Great, the Mighty God, the LORD of hosts, is his name, Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings:” (Jeremiah 32:16-19)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about prayer is it can be done anywhere and in any place. We don’t need to be loud or boastful with our prayers. God isn’t deaf. He even understands our thoughts. To me, prayer is just simply talking with God about what is needful at the time and making my requests and petitions known to Him on the behalf of others. The key to me for establishing a life of prayer is to always remember what God has done for me, and my desire for Him to do it for others. Jesus said that when we pray, we are not to use vain repetition. In other words, don’t keep saying useless words over and over. Yes, I know that He stated that men ought to always pray and not to faint but be particular with your prayer. What is the reason you are praying? What do you need Him to attend to. Jesus tells us the parable of the unjust judge and a widow who requested Him to rid her of her adversary (Luke 18). Yes, Jesus talks about prayer at the onset to caution us of the importance of prayer.  But this parable is more about faith than prayer. We must be consistent in prayer, but the consistency must be with our faith. When we pray, we must have the faith to believe that God will come through for us. As faith without works is dead. Jeremiah is in prison. And he is told by God to buy a piece of property from his uncle’s son. When it happens the way that God tells him, he buys it, subscribes the evidence, and then he offers thanksgiving through prayer. He said: “Ah Lord GOD! behold, thou hast made the heaven and the earth by thy great power and stretched out arm, and there is nothing too hard for thee: Thou shewest lovingkindness unto thousands, and recompensest the iniquity of the fathers into the bosom of their children after them: the Great, the Mighty God, the LORD of hosts, is his name, Great in counsel, and mighty in work: for thine eyes are open upon all the ways of the sons of men: to give every one according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” Prayer ought to always begin with thanks and end with thanks. Always remember, old prayers never die! 

Sing: Thank You, Jesus, for the blood applied. Thank You, Jesus, You have washed me white. Thank You, Jesus, You have saved my life, brought me out of darkness into Your glorious light. 

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 August 28

Put On The Armor of Light

“The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.” (Romans 13:12)

Today’s Morsel: When Paul tells us to put on the whole armor of God, he tells us the reason is due in part that we may be able to stand in the evil day. The armor of light is what he identifies in Ephesians 6:10-18. Truth, righteousness, the gospel, faith, salvation, the word, and prayer, as these things represent Christ’s character. You see, when we are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, we are putting on Christ (Galatians 3:26-29), and because Jesus is God manifested in flesh (1 Timothy 3:16), He is the light and in Him is no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). Therefore, we must remove all working of darkness from our lives and be adorned with the armor of light. “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:” (Ephesians 5:8) In this dark world, every Christian ought to stand out like a sore thumb. 

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

Thought For Today: “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:” (1 Peter 2:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 27

Silence is Golden

“Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.” (Proverbs 17:28)

Today’s Morsel: They say that silence is golden. If that be the case, then not too many people can be arrested for hoarding it. Some folks are like an old refrigerator, they can’t keep anything. Throughout scripture, we are cautioned to bridle our tongue as life and death are in it. James even tells us: “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. 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 3:5-10) He further cautions: “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God.” (James 1:19-20) This little member of the body must be disciplined so that it does not cause you or someone else hardship. If you desire to show others that you are a man or woman with Godly understanding, then you must learn when to speak and when to keep silent.

Sing: I’m going to clean up, what I messed up, I’m starting my life over again. I’m going to clean up, what I messed up, I’m starting my life over again. I made up my mind I ain’t lying no more, I’m going back to church and I’m going to walk right through the door. I’m going to clean up, what I messed up, I’m starting my life over again.

Thought For Today: “For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips.” (Proverbs 8:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 26

Look Up

“And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” (Luke 21:25-28)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever just go outside and look up into the sky? Sometimes I like to watch the cloud formations to see what pictures they are displaying. Or I like it when I observe a plane venting across the sky 5-6 miles overhead. Or the birds soaring above seeking for a prey. Or catch the majestic beauty of the rainbow in the sky after the rain. It’s amazing that loneliness, depression, anxiety, and sadness is associated with looking down, while excitement, happiness, and joy is associated with looking up. Jesus left us with some warnings about His return. He said, “And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.” All signs are pointing to His soon return. Are you looking up for your redemption?

Sing: Some glad morning, we shall see, Jesus in the air, He’s coming after you and me, joy is ours to share. What rejoicing that will be, when the saints shall rise, heading for the jubilee, yonder in the sky. ‘

Oh, what singing, oh what shouting, on that happy morning when we all shall rise. Oh what glory, hallelujah, when we meet our Blessed Savior yonder in the sky.

Thought For Today: It’s not your outlook, but your “Up look” that counts.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 24

Commitment

“A Psalm of David. LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart. He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour. In whose eyes a vile person is contemned; but he honoureth them that fear the LORD. He that sweareth to his own hurt, and changeth not. He that putteth not out his money to usury, nor taketh reward against the innocent. He that doeth these things shall never be moved.” (Psalms 15:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: Commitment requires you to have follow through. Marriages fail due to a lack of commitment. People lose their jobs due in part to a lack of commitment. People drop out of school due in part to a lack of commitment. Solomon states: “Now it was in the heart of David my father to build an house for the name of the LORD God of Israel. But the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart: Notwithstanding thou shalt not build the house; but thy son which shall come forth out of thy loins, he shall build the house for my name. The LORD therefore hath performed his word that he hath spoken: for I am risen up in the room of David my father, and am set on the throne of Israel, as the LORD promised, and have built the house for the name of the LORD God of Israel. And in it have I put the ark, wherein is the covenant of the LORD, that he made with the children of Israel.” (2 Chronicles 6:7-11) Commitment starts with vision and follow through. To reach heaven, we must each have commitment in our lives to get there. Winners always make commitments, while losers oftentimes will not. Ruth committed to Naomi and ended up in the linage line of Christ. Paul committed to Jesus and ended up being one of the greatest apostles who ever lived and is credited with writing thirteen of the New Testament books of the Bible. Daily, we ought to have heaven in view and commitment within ourselves to getting there. 

Sing: I’ve got a made-up mind; I’ve got a final destination; gonna keep on pressing on, to my final destination. Gonna burn all the bridges behind me, break of the ties that bind me; gonna keep on pressing on, till I reach my home sweet home, that New Jerusalem. 

Thought For Today: “For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.” (Hebrews 11:10)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 23

Availability

“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.” (Isaiah 6:8)

Today’s Morsel:  At one time, the U.S. military was built based on draftees and a few volunteers. In 1973 it went to an all-volunteer force, ending the long period of conscription. Many men and women proved that they were available and were willing to serve their country.  One of the things that we see in scripture is that God never asks about our ability or inability, just our availability. Each time someone God called tried to give Him an excuse as to why they could not do what He was asking them to do, God just told them that He would be with them. He knew that they did not possess the ability to do what He wanted them to do. He just needed them to be available to represent Him. Does your pastor or employer know that you are available to do what they may ask of you? We never see that Joshua asked to be the next leader of Israel after Moses. He just showed himself available and God elevated him to leadership.  The same we see with the apostle Paul. From the time of his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus, once he found out who Jesus was, his next question was, Lord, what He would have him to do. He showed that he was available, and Jesus used him mightily in ministry. Both Joshua and Paul became great leaders for Jesus, and you can too if you show yourself available.  

Sing: Here I am Lord, here I am. I give all myself to You, here I am. Here I am Lord, here I am. Let your spirit move through me, here I am.

Thought For Today: Are you available?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 22

Faith

“He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.” (Romans 4:20-21)

Today’s Morsel: For one to have strong faith, they must daily spend time in the Word of God and believe in it, as faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). Jesus Christ is the Word made flesh (John 1:14), and I believe that’s why that for our faith to be strong, we must believe in Him and take Him at His word. Your faith will always have at least three enemies fighting against it. They are yourself, fear, and uncertainty. We often see in scripture that many lacked faith because they refused to trust and take God at His Word. The ten spies looked at the size of the people and said within themselves, we are not able. And they were not able, even after having seen God part the Red Sea and they walked across on dry ground. The second enemy is fear. Fear is one of Satan’s greatest weapons, and it will always fight against your faith. If the enemy can keep you in a state of fear, he knows that you will never trust God. As John said, fear torments. In other words, fear becomes an agitator, depressant, and downright nuisance against your faith. And the third is uncertainty. It creates doubt in you. You keep getting these I’m not for sure feelings. Thomas refused to take the other disciples’ word by faith that Jesus had risen. He said, I’m not going to believe it until I see the nail prints in His hand and put my hand in His side. Another reason uncertainty fights against our faith is because we have been told that God will heal us, provide for us, and deliver us, but when it doesn’t happen in the timeframe that we desire it to, then we start doubting from that point on and it hinders our faith in those areas, and even in other areas in our lives. If you want strong faith, don’t lean unto your own understanding. Learn to do the things that you are afraid of and believe that God is alive and that He is working all things for your good.

Sing:  For the God on the mountain, is still God in the valley, when things go wrong, He’ll make them right. And the God of the good times, is still God in the bad times; The God of the day, is still God in the night.

We speak of faith, when we are up on the mountain, for faith comes easy when life is at its best. But it’s down in the valley, of trials and temptations, for that’s where our faith, is really put to the test. 

Thought For Today: “Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.” (James 2:17)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 21

Turn About

“Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into prison, he departed into Galilee; And leaving Nazareth, he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast, in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim: That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias the prophet, saying, The land of Zabulon, and the land of Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles; The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up. From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say, Repent: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” (Matthew 4:12-17)

Today’s Morsel: The first time that I was driving through Texas, I kept seeing these signs that said, “Turn About”. I kept saying to myself, I’ve never seen that sign before. What does that mean? I quickly learned that it was another way of saying U-turn. If you are heading in the wrong direction, God allows “Turn Abouts”. It is called repentance. From the time that Jesus started His earthly ministry, He began to call for people to turn around. And we see this thread throughout the entire New Testament. It’s easy to get on the wrong road when we aren’t paying attention to where we are heading and what we are supposed to be doing. Even in the church, it is easy to think that we are in the right road when things are going good for us, and we just keep going. But revival doesn’t mean that you are on the right road. In the last days God will pour of His Spirit upon all flesh, but when it comes to salvation, Paul said, we must work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12) Do you need a Turn About?  Today is your day to turn around and go in the right direction. 

Sing: When I think about the Lord, how He saved me, how He raised me, and how He filled me, with the Holy Ghost, how He healed me to the uttermost; when I think about the Lord, how He picked me up, and turned me around, and how He placed my feet, on solid ground; it makes we want to shout Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, Lord You worthy, of all the honor and all of the praise. It makes me want to shout.

Thought For Today: “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: But if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword: for the mouth of the LORD hath spoken it.” (Isaiah 1:18-20)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 20

Do Over

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

Today’s Morsel: Why is it that some folks don’t have the focus and energy to do something right the first time, but they seem to find the time to do it over? I have heard a lot of people when doing certain things, would say, “Well that’s good enough for government work.” But what they fail to realize is shortcuts get people killed. I have seen folks get upset because the announcement comes at their airport gate that their flight is being delayed due to a mechanic problem. Some of them have even looked at me with scorn when I say, “Well, I’m glad it happened down here and not up there.” Pointing skyward. You don’t get a second chance to do it over again when you are in the sky. No matter what we are doing, we ought to get in the habit of doing everything that we do as unto the Lord, and we would feel so much better about ourselves and who we are. “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. But he that doeth wrong shall receive for the wrong which he hath done: and there is no respect of persons.” (Colossians 3:23-25) Always remember, the life you save just might be your own or some of your loved ones.

Sing: I want to live, the way that 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 could never, never out love the Lord. 

Thought For Today: “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” (Colossians 3:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 19

Be Ye Ready

“And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through. Be ye therefore ready also: for the Son of man cometh at an hour when ye think not.” (Luke 12:39-40)

Today’s Morsel: One of the lessons that I learned in the military was that you always had to be ready, as you never knew if the order was going to come that you needed to go take out some bad guys. So daily, soldiers are always in a preparedness state. Each day when they report for duty, they train and prepare for the unexpected. They want to ensure that their equipment and understanding of doctrine are settled in their minds. As born-again believers, there should never be any doubt in your mind if you are ready for Jesus’ return. Daily, you ought to be reading your Bible, witnessing, and living as if Jesus could come at any moment. You should not get caught off guard, because He’s already told us to be ready. 

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

Thought For Today: “Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.” (Luke 12:37)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 17

Hang in There

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” (Galatians 6:9)

Today’s Morsel: When is the last time you’ve taken a vacation. I’m not talking about going someplace and coming home just as tired as you were when you left. Vacations are supposed to be relaxing and fun. But I have yet to meet anyone who went on their so-called vacation, who did not come back complaining about how tiring it was and how tired they are. They complained about the lines at the airport, the traffic jams they had to sit in, crowded restaurants, the rooms on the cruise ships being too small, and on the list goes. By all indications, they worried themselves tired. For me, I’ve never taken a vacation, because I already know that in the world there is going to be tribulation. And so, when I do go places, I don’t go to relax, I go to see.  Sometimes the hustles and bustles of life just might require you to hang in there. Paul cautions us to not be weary in well doing. Don’t let what you are doing weigh you down. Stay focused and Jesus will see you through.  Have fun! 

Sing: Hold to God’s unchanging hand, hold to God’s unchanging hand. Build your hopes on things eternal. Hold to God’s unchanging hand.

Thought For Today: “But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 16

Wisdom

“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” (James 1:5)

Today’s Morsel: When we study the Bible, we can see that throughout its pages God wants us to be wise. The whole book of Proverbs is a book for developing and learning wisdom. Most of its writing is given to the pen of King Solomon, the man who at 8 years old sought God for wisdom to lead His people. It has been stated that we can be knowledgeable without another man’s knowledge, but we cannot be wise with another man’s wisdom. In other words, we need our own. The apostle James tells us, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” If you really want to know how to navigate through this life and have joy, then you need the wisdom of God in your life. “Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets: She crieth in the chief place of concourse, in the openings of the gates: in the city she uttereth her words, saying, How long, ye simple ones, will ye love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? Turn you at my reproof: behold, I will pour out my spirit unto you, I will make known my words unto you.” (Proverbs 1:20-23) Jesus Christ is the wisdom of God and the power of God; and the quicker He is in your life, the wiser you will be and the better off you will be.

Sing: Jesus coming soon, morning or night or noon, many will meet their doom. Trumpets will sound; All of the dead shall rise, righteous meet in the skies, going where no one dies, Heavenward bound.

Thought For Today: “For wisdom is better than rubies; and all the things that may be desired are not to be compared to it.” (Proverbs 8:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 15

Lies

“A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin.” (Proverbs 26:28)

Today’s Morsel: Most folks do not understand that you gain nothing by lying. Once you lie, it becomes easier to tell another lie. Part of our fallen nature is to lie. But once we are born again, all the words of our mouth must be spoken in truth.  One of the things about telling secrets about someone to someone and then you tell them not to tell anyone else, in some sense you are forcing that individual to lie. If it was a secret, then we probably shouldn’t have told it to anyone. Once you tell anyone, it is no longer a secret, and it will probably be shouted from the housetop. It has been stated that sin has many tools, but a lie is the handle which fits them all. God doesn’t say how big or small of a lie it is that will keep you out of heaven. He simply says: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” (Revelation 21:8). So with God, there is no such thing as a “little lie” – a lie is a lie.  We must always remember that God is a God of truth. As Jesus told the religious leaders: “Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own: for he is a liar, and the father of it.” (John 8:44) If we get in the practice of being truthful, it will become a habit, and we will be more likely to tell the truth all the time rather than ever lie. 

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 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 August 14

In The City Where the Lamb Is The Light

“And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.” (Revelation 21:22-24)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things you will notice when God gave Moses the directions for building the Tabernacle in the Wilderness, there was no mention for a light to be placed in the Holy of Holies or the Holies of All. The reason is this was the place of the mercy seat, and here was where the presence of God descended upon.  And since God is light, there was no need to have a light placed there. When we fast forward to our new home in heaven, that new Jerusalem, John tells us, “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it. And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof. And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it.” Scripture says: “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” (John 1:29) Jesus is identified as the Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the whole world.  Scripture also says: “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” (John 8:12) If we say that we are saved, then we must follow Jesus and He will keep us in the light.  Again, John writes: “This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” (1 John 1:5). Once we are born again of the water and the spirit, we’re no longer children of the night, we become children of the day (1 Thessalonians 5:5).

Sing: It’s in that city where the lamb is the light, in that city where there cometh no night, I’ve a mansion over there and when free from toil and care, I am going where the Lamb is the Light. 

Thought For Today: “In him was life; and the life was the light of men.” (John 1:4)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 13

Loneliness

“As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God? My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? When I remember these things, I pour out my soul in me: for I had gone with the multitude, I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept holyday. Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance.” (Psalms 42:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things you must be alert to and careful of is loneliness.  Loneliness doesn’t mean that you don’t have anyone around you, it may mean that you have nothing in common with those that are around you. Or you may wish to be able to see those you know and love yet are away currently away from and have not seen for a while.  One of the things we were taught as drill instructors was to always be alert and on the lookout for those new soldiers that seemed to be withdrawn or without excitement and joy in their lives. It is easy for new recruits to start missing loved ones, and friends back home and for loneliness to set in. The same holds true in the church. We must keep an eye on our brothers and sisters to ensure that they are not being drawn into a spirit of loneliness. This can lead to isolation, depression, and even suicide. The psalmist found himself being lonely. And so he began asking himself what was wrong that he was feeling this way. If you will notice, he said that he went to church, he worshipped God, but he wasn’t feeling the presence of God. He wanted to hear God and feel his presence. What about you, are you missing God? Does it feel as though it’s been a long time since you felt the presence of God? Then stir up the gift of the Holy Ghost within you and get back on course and you will be able to lead others to Christ.  We do not need to be lonely in the family of God.  

Sing: Life here is grand, with friends I love so dear, comfort I get from God’s own Word; Yet when I face the chilling hand of death, where could I go but to the Lord?

Where could I go, where could I go; seeking a refuge for my soul? Needing a friend to help me in the end, where could I go but to the Lord?

Thought For Today: “But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,” (Jude 1:20)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 12

Godly and Worldly Sorrow 

“For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” (2 Corinthians 7:10)

Today’s Morsel: When you are studying your Bible, do you stop and look up the meaning of words and phrases that you do not know? Part of studying God’s Word is to rightly divide it. To know it’s purpose and meaning. If we do not know what something means, in its original meaning, we can lean to our own understanding or the understanding of others. And if we are not careful, we could start to believe in false doctrine and then start to teach it.  Paul informed the church at Corinth, “For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.” Notice, godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation. Godly sorrow inspires change and hope through the atoning blood of Jesus Christ. Godly sorrow leads to conversion and a change of one’s heart. While on the other hand, worldly sorrow pulls you down, crushes your hope, and causes you to keep giving in to more ungodly temptation. One of the reasons why worldly sorrow is so dangerous is that most of the time when those in the world start to feel sorrow for their wrong, sin, and conduct, they do not seek for God, they often seek for the bar to drown their sorrows and wrongs with alcohol, wine, and beer, and even illegal drugs. They often give in to more ungodly temptations. While those with godly sorrow, hear and see what God says in His word, and they repent, and turn their hearts to God. The world does not have the answers to your problems. They are going to tell you things like just trust your own heart. Well, scripture says that he that trusts his own heart is a fool.  No matter what you may be going through, godly sorrow will help you, not crush you, or pull you down. God’s Word will edify you and build you up if you let it. Godly sorrow is designed to bring about change within you.

Sing: Change my heart O’ God, make it ever true. Change my heart O’ God may I be like You.

Thought For Today: “For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world.” (1 John 2:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 10

Seek God With All Your Heart

“And thus did Hezekiah throughout all Judah, and wrought that which was good and right and truth before the LORD his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered.” (2 Chronicles 31:20-21)

Today’s Morsel: Hezekiah is listed as one of the good kings of Judah. Scripture says, that he did that which was good and right and truth before the LORD his God. And in every work that he began in the service of the house of God, and in the law, and in the commandments, to seek his God, he did it with all his heart. He was not a half-hearted king. He did that which was pleasing to God, and he did it with all his heart. And he prospered. What a testimony. Some folks like to preach about prosperity, but there is no prosperity where there is no commitment to God and the things of God. Men may have great wealth and things, but that does not mean that they are prosperous. When you prosper in God, it means that God is providing for you without having you to kill yourself. When you are prospering in God, you are not always tired, weary, and filled with anxiety. You know, Job sought God daily with his heart, and he seemed to prosper because he did that which God asked of him to do. If you want to prosper, the Lord simply says: “And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13) If you desire to prosper stay in the word and live it. 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) 

Sing: Lord, You are more beautiful than diamonds; Lord, You are, more costly than gold. Lord, You are more precious than silver, and nothing I desire compares to You. 

Thought For Today: “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 9

God is With Us

“With him is an arm of flesh; but with us is the LORD our God to help us, and to fight our battles. And the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah king of Judah.” (2 Chronicles 32:8)

Today’s Morsel: When we become born-again, we become a part of the family of God. And that means that as long as we walk according to the Word of God, God is with us.  As Paul told the church at Colossi: “That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; Strengthened with all might, according to his glorious power, unto all patience and longsuffering with joyfulness; Giving thanks unto the Father, which hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son:” (Colossians 1:10-13) When Matthew put pen to the paper he wrote: “Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.” (Matthew 1:23) Knowing that God is with us ought to encourage us to daily live, act, and conduct ourselves in a way that is always pleasing to Him and to others. We represent His family.

Sing: Immanuel, Immanuel, His name is called, Immanuel. God with us, revealed in us, His name is called, Immanuel. 

Thought For Today: “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.” (John 1:14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 8

When Faith Cannot Believe

“But though he had done so many miracles before them, yet they believed not on him: That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled, which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report? and to whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?” (John 12:37-38)

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture, we see many who could not bring their faith in line with Jesus’ teachings and miracles even though they saw them and heard Him teach them. For some unknown reason, they could not bring their faith to a point where they believed in Him. Why were people’s hearts hardened when it comes to believing it Jesus? Did they think that Jesus was like some of the other false prophets and sorcerers who had bewitched the people? Did they think that He was a magician? Why did the man who asked Jesus to heal his son, tell Jesus that he believed, but that he needed help with his unbelief? What was preventing him from believing that Jesus could heal his son. If we teach that Jesus can heal and deliver, shouldn’t we have the faith to believe that He will? Does not scripture tell us that hope that is seen is not hope? And that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. So what do we do when our faith cannot believe? Well, when faith fails to believe, then it’s not faith. It becomes a desire. A wish. A plea. True faith believes that God can, and that God will. If our faith does not move us to believe in God and His abilities, we may need more time in His Word and in prayer. “And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up by the root, and be thou planted in the sea; and it should obey you.” (Luke 17:6) Always remember, weak faith is caused by weak faith.

Sing: For I know in whom I have believed, and I’m persuaded that God is able; to keep that which I have committed, to Him against that day. 

Thought For Today: “Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” (Mark 9:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 7

How Do You Treat Others

“These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates: And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.” 
(Zechariah 8:16-17)

Today’s Morsel: The commandments give us directions concerning matters that God wants us to observe with reference to circumstances when they arise. The first four of the Ten Commandments show us what our relationship ought to be with God and the second six show us our relationship to our neighbor, or to each other. If we say that we are born again and love God, then we ought to have love for each other. John said, “If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from him, That he who loveth God love his brother also.” (1 John 4:20-21) According to Zechariah, we must not imagine evil in our hearts toward our neighbor. When David prayed and asked God who would abide in His holy temple or who would abide in His holy hills, He is told: “He that backbiteth not with his tongue, nor doeth evil to his neighbour, nor taketh up a reproach against his neighbour.” (Psalms 15:3) When we become saints of God, the treatment of others must not be the way the world treats them. It must be the way that Jesus would treat them. 

Sing: He left the splendor of heaven, knowing His destiny was the lonely hill of Golgotha there to lay down His life for me. 

If that isn’t love, then the ocean is dry, there’s no stars in the sky, and the sparrow can’t fly! If that isn’t love, then heaven’s a myth, there’s no feeling like this, if that isn’t love.

Thought For Today: “Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 6

Unity

“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love; Endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” (Ephesians 4:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: There are somethings in the church that the onus to make them happen falls upon each of us. Some of them are ethics, personal growth, holiness, discipleship, compassion, evangelism, peace, and unity. Paul said that we must strive to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. God is not divided. His church must be as He and His Father are. One. The “I” in the word unity places the onus on each of us to ensure that it happens. Like ethics, unity isn’t about the other person. It is about you. If you are not ethical, then there will not be unity in the body. And if there is no unity there is no ethics nor peace and the enemy will win. You must always remember that you must operate with the mind of Christ, not the mind of this world. Nothing today in this world is united. It is in total chaos. And this is why we must be like Christ if we are going to keep ourselves, our homes, and our churches in unity. As the Psalmist said: “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.” (Psalms 133:1-3) If you want a blessing and be able to obtain eternal life, then you must walk and live in unity with other believers in Christ. The onus is on you.  

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, for as long as there is love, we can stand.

Thought For Today: “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 5

Bless The Lord

“Behold, bless ye the LORD, all ye servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD. Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD. The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.” (Psalms 134:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever heard the saying: “You reap what you sow?” Well, think about that for a moment. Would you like to be blessed? Then scripture tells us to bless the Lord. Jesus even tells us: “Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.” (Luke 6:37-38) Do you know why I keep telling people that I am blessed and highly favored of the Lord? Because (I’m not bragging) I have made it a habit in my life to always bless the Lord for His great love towards me. You see, I know where I was and what path I was on when Jesus brought me out of darkness into His marvelous light. One foot was already in hell and the other was on a banana peel sliding me into that terrible abyss. “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved me, Even when I was dead in sins, hath quickened me together with Christ, (by grace I am saved;) And hath raised me up together, and made mesit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward me through Christ Jesus.” (Emphasis mine) Ephesians 2:4-7. If you want to be blessed, then get into the habit of blessing God and others.

Sing: Oh, 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 there of and be glad. Oh 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: “Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.” (Psalms 113:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 3

When Compassion Steals Your Heart

“After these things Jesus went over the sea of Galilee, which is the sea of Tiberias. And a great multitude followed him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that were diseased. And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sat with his disciples. And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh. When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat? And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do.” (John 6:1-6)

Today’s Morsel: One of the traits that came with the Holy Spirit is that of compassion. If we are not moved with compassion in today’s world, we may be suffering from hardness of heart. Jesus was always moved with compassion for others. When He saw the multitude coming to Him as sheep without a shepherd, He was moved with compassion for them. When He saw the widow who’s only son had died, He was moved with compassion. When the woman taken in adultery was cast before Him for judgment, He was moved with compassion. Jeremiah informs us: “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). His feeling for others never ceases. As the Lord said in Isaiah: “For a small moment have I forsaken thee; but with great mercies will I gather thee. In a little wrath I hid my face from thee for a moment; but with everlasting kindness will I have mercy on thee, saith the LORD thy Redeemer.” (Isaiah 54:7-8) God is a God who loves and cares. And we ought to have that same attitude as He did. Paul said: “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:” (Philippians 2:5) If we have the same trait of compassion as Jesus did, we will see other’s suffering and pain, and it will steal your heart.

Sing: I stay in the garden with Him, though the night around me be falling; but He bids me go, through the voice of woe, His voice to me is calling.

And He walks with me, and He talks with me, and He tells me I am His own; And the joy we share as we tarry there, none other has ever known.

Thought For Today: “Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous:” (1 Peter 3:8)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 2

The Living God

“The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.” (Psalms 18:46)

Today’s Morsel: Throughout Jesus’ early ministry, He kept informing His disciples that He would die, be buried, and rise again on the third day. And we see that according to scripture, that it happened just as He said it would. Therefore, we are not serving a dead God, we are serving a living God. As Paul told the church at Corinth: “Moreover, brethren, I declare unto you the gospel which I preached unto you, which also ye have received, and wherein ye stand; By which also ye are saved, if ye keep in memory what I preached unto you, unless ye have believed in vain. For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures: And that he was seen of Cephas, then of the twelve: After that, he was seen of above five hundred brethren at once; of whom the greater part remain unto this present, but some are fallen asleep. After that, he was seen of James; then of all the apostles. And last of all he was seen of me also, as of one born out of due time.” (1 Corinthians 15:1-8) Is your God dead? My God is not dead. Because He lives, we shall live also. Anyone who does not believe in the resurrection of Jesus Christ, might as well pack up and live in and for the world. Because there is no hope for those who do not believe in the resurrection of Christ. 

Sing: Our God’s not dead, He is alive, our God’s not dead, He is alive, our God’s not dead, He is alive. I feel Him in my hands, I feel Him in my feet, I feel in my heart, I feel Him all over me; God’s not dead He’s alive.

Thought For Today: “And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.” (John 20:26-28)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 August 1

 Meditation

“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)

Today’s Morsel: How much time to do you sit and reminisce on the Word of God? For me, I like to sit and ponder on the things that God has done and has revealed to me to help me learn and to grow. Paul informs us: “For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope.” (Romans 15:4) When we meditate on the Word of God, it can bring back hope that we may have lost. Or it can inspire us to do better than what we may think.  In one on my senior military schools that I attended during my military career, the instructor informed us that if at any time during our daily duties we started to feel overwhelmed or stressed we should just sit back, close our eyes, and meditate on something good. And so for me, I would always just close my eyes, sit back, and meditate on the Word or on God.  David seemed to mediate on God often as well. He prayed: “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) What do you meditating upon. Isaiah states: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3) Spend time thinking on the Lord and meditating on His Word, I guarantee you it will bring you great benefits.

Sing: When I think about the Lord, how He raised me, how He healed me, how He filled me, with the Holy Ghost; When I think about the Lord, how He picked me up and turned me around, how He placed my feet on solid ground; It makes me want to shout, Hallelujah, thank You Jesus, Lord You’re are worthy of all the honor, of all the praise; It makes me want to shout.

Thought For Today: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:8)