Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 30

The Importance of Prayer

“And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;” (Luke 18:1)

Today’s Morsel: One of the seven habits that I have determines that must be a part of every Christian’s life is that of prayer. Jesus said that we ought to always pray and not faint.  Is prayer the tool that God has given to us to prevent us from being weak, exhausted, faint in heart, and weary? Is it the tool that strengthens us when we feel like quitting and throwing in the towel? Is it the motivating factor that will keep us going when the mountain seems high, and the valley seems too wide? Is this what Isaiah meant when he said that God would keep us in perfect peace if we kept our minds stayed on Him? Prayer must be a part of our daily living. 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; Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus;” (1 Timothy 2:1-5) He called for us to pray for all that are in authority so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. We may not agree with a political leader or certain people, but if we will pray for them, God just might turn their hearts to where they too can become a part of the family of God and be saved. If there is someone whom you may not like, or someone that you have a hard time with, keep them on the altar before God. Jesus has a way of turning hearts around. Ask Paul.

Sing: Whisper a prayer in the morning. Whisper a prayer at noon. Whisper a prayer in the evening. So keep your heart in tune.

Thought For Today: “Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 28

Stay Alert

“Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience. Be not ye therefore partakers with them. For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them. For it is a shame even to speak of those things which are done of them in secret. But all things that are reproved are made manifest by the light: for whatsoever doth make manifest is light. Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:6-16)

Today’s Morsel: When I first enlisted into the army, it was not uncommon to hear these word: “Listen up and give me your undivided attention.” We must learn how to stay alert. This is war. And the enemy’s goal is to lure you to sleep and cause you to not to be able to see what he is doing and is up to. He wants to pull you off course so he can destroy you and your family. Jesus said: “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)With this information, we must stay alert. We must walk with caution and not allow ourselves to be lured into wrong actions and motives. Always remember, we all get to make choices, but we don’t get to determine the consequences that come with those choices. Wakeup, O’ Sleeper!

Sing: Jesus, hold my hand, Lord, I need Thee every hour. Through this pilgrim land, protect me by Thy saving power. Hear my feeble plea, o, Lord, looked down on me.  When I kneel in prayer, I know I’ll meet You there, precious Jesus hold my hand.

Thought For Today: “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23).

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 27

A Conspiracy of Interruption 

“And he shall speak great words against the most High, and shall wear out the saints of the most High, and think to change times and laws: and they shall be given into his hand until a time and times and the dividing of time. But the judgment shall sit, and they shall take away his dominion, to consume and to destroy it unto the end. And the kingdom and dominion, and the greatness of the kingdom under the whole heaven, shall be given to the people of the saints of the most High, whose kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him. Hitherto is the end of the matter. As for me Daniel, my cogitations much troubled me, and my countenance changed in me: but I kept the matter in my heart.” (Daniel 7:25-28)

Today’s Morsel: Whether we like it or not, there is a plot and scheme by Satan to interrupt your daily life. Not only is their spiritual warfare taking place, but there is physiological warfare. The airwaves are being filled with lies, deception, and disinformation.  News touting evil and division, rumors of wars, and threats of weather, is intruding on our lives. Social media platforms which were designed to build friendships and establish communications have become depressive and stressful for many. Evil is being called good and good is being called evil. As the news commentor Paul Harvey once said when speaking of the devil and his conspiracy, and I quote, “If I was the devil, I would leave things just as they are.”  The enemy’s goal is to cause continuous interruption in your life. But we must follow Jude’s call to persevere: “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. Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” (Jude 1:17-25) If you want to defeat Satan’s conspiracy of interruption against you, then you must stay on the offense and go after his kingdom and not allow him to keep attacking yours.

Sing: Peace, Peace, wonderful peace, coming down from the Father above; sweep over my spirit forever I pray, in fathomless billows of love.

Thought For Today: “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)  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 26

Life In Christ

“For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:3-4)

Today’s Morsel: One of the reasons why we are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, is because we are putting on Christ. Paul said: “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 6:3-4) He told the Church at Galatia: “For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.” (Galatians 3:27) The reason we become born-again is to be in Christ and His body. We don’t just become Christians to check a box. It must become a lifestyle. Your life must now be hidden in Christ. When others see you or encounter you, they ought to see Christ and not you. If you have an evil attitude, complain about everything, lie, dress immodest, or yell and scream at your kids, spouse, or others, and call people names, they are not seeing Christ in you. Your life is not hidden in Christ, it’s still hidden in the devil. As John admonishes us: “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him. But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:4-6) We are to be Jesus in the earth. 

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: “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.” (Colossians 3:12-13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 25

What Are You Aiming At?

“If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1)

Today’s Morsel: One of the primary lessons we taught soldiers in basic training was BasicRifle Marksmanship (BRM). And part of that training was to teach them how to properly Breathe, Relax, Aim, and Squeeze (BRAS) the trigger to prevent from jerking the rifle causing them to miss the target they were aiming at.  What are you aiming at? Do you have your sights focused and set on heaven? Paul said: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God.” (Colossians 3:1) Where is your aim? Are you focused? Solomon informs us: “I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.” (Ecclesiastes 9:11) In this race for heaven, you must learn how to stay focused so that you do not get tired and quit. You must learn how to keep your focus on where you are headed and relax. You can’t allow things or others to trouble you to where you become unsettled and fail in your mind. You can hit heaven, your target, if you are staying focused on Jesus and His Word. 

Sing: Oh Lord You know I have no friend like You, if Heaven’s not my home, then Lord what will I do? The angels are beckoning me, from heaven’s open door and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.

Thought For Today: “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved.” (Matthew 10:22)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 24

Know Love and You Will Know How to Love Others

“Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love. In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent his only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through him. 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 4:7-11)

Today’s Morsel: The first of all the commandments, Jesus said, was to love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And the second was like it. To love thy neighbor as thyself. John tells us that God is love. Therefore, if we know God, then we will know love. And when we follow Him, we will know how to love each other. There is no love for us and even for others, if we don’t know Jesus.  Marriages fail because people leave their first love. Anytime there isn’t a strong love for God, it is easy to walk away from others whom we say that we love. Paul admonishes us: “And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” (Colossians 3:14) Love must be worn by you. And if it is worn, others will see Christ in you the hope of glory and see His love in you. As Jesus said: “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” (John 14:15); “These things I command you, that ye love one another.” (John 15:17).  If we say that we know Jesus, then we ought to know how to love others.

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

Thought For Today: “And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity.” (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 23

What Is In The Volume of The Book About You?

“Then said I, Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.” (Psalms 40:7-8)

Today’s Morsel: What would you do if someone wrote a book about your life and you were not aware of it until you read it. And then you realized that it was all about you. Well, in some cases, this is what happen when Jesus came on the scene. The religious leaders who were responsible for leading and teaching God’s people should have known who Jesus was. But because they went about to establish their own agenda, they were taken by surprise. The same is true today. If we don’t read the volume of the book, the Bible, we, too, are not going to know who Jesus is. The book is about Him. Paul, who had read the book and who had met Jesus on the road to Damascus, wrote: “And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” (1 Timothy 3:16) He told the church at Phillipi: “That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;” (Philippians 3:10)Paul knew Him. He had a first-hand encounter with Christ. John the Beloved, who wrote the gospel of John, quoted Jesus as saying: “Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.” (John 5:39-40) The book, the Bible, is all about Jesus Christ, God manifested in flesh, to give us life. Have you read and received that newness of life?  What does the book say about you in its pages?

Sing: There’s a new name written down in glory, and it’s mine, oh, yes, it’s mine! And the white robed angels tell the story, “A sinner has come home.” For there’s a new name written down in glory, and it’s mine, oh, yes, it’s mine! With my sins forgiven I am bound for heaven, never more to roam. 

Thought For Today: “And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire.” (Revelation 20:15)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 21

What’s Holding You Back?

“And Joshua the son of Nun, and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, which were of them that searched the land, rent their clothes: And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying, The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land. If the LORD delight in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the LORD, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not.” (Numbers 14:6-9)

“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)

Today’s Morsel: What is holding you back from serving God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength? Are you afraid of failure? Are you concerned with what others may say if you don’t succeed? It has been stated that “Many people died daily having accomplished nothing in their lives, and neither have they not did anything with the talents and abilities which God had given them. And that there is no evidence that they were ever alive in the world.” So, what will your life reflect that you did for the kingdom of God? Who is telling others about how you taught them a Bible Study that led them to Christ? Who is telling others about the leader that you were? Think about this for a moment. Of all the people that came out of Egypt with Moses, everyone that was 20 years or older, other than Joshua and Caleb, died in the wilderness. And the reason was they allowed fear to prevent them from going forward to obtain their promise. “And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.” (1 Samuel 14:6) Are you going to let fear hold you back? Are you going to allow fear to cripple you? What has Jesus called you to do that you have not accomplished yet? The longer you wait, the harder it is going to become for you to do what God has called you to do. 

Sing: The mountains high but it’s not too steep, and the battle is rough but I’m not too weak; and I won’t turn back, oh, no, I won’t turn back. Well, the road is hot, but it’s not too long, and the enemy’s near, but he’s not too strong; and I won’t turn back, oh no, I won’t turn back.   

Thought For Today: There is no restrain with God. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 20

His Mercy Endureth For Ever?

“O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: because his mercy endureth for ever.” (Psalms 118:1)

Today’s Morsel: In the Bible, mercy is used in reference to receiving forgiveness or withholding punishment. We also see this word played out in a court of law when a judge shows leniency on a sentencing. David often spoke of God’s mercy for forgiving him of his actions and conduct. The Psalmist stated: “If thou, LORD, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared. I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning. Let Israel hope in the LORD: for with the LORD there is mercy, and with him is plenteous redemption. And he shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.” (Psalms 130:3-8) If God would judge us for our wrong, who could stand? But there is forgiveness with God, so that He may be respected by us as being our Heavenly Father. Therefore, we should continuously offer to Him our thanks for His mercy. Where would you be if it had not been for God’s mercy toward you?

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

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

Thought For Today: “O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.” (Psalms 136:26)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 19

Let’s Dump the Load

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

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about being a Christian is that you must know when to dump the load and weights that you are carrying. Some folks are still caring all the hurts and pain of what someone else said or did to them many years ago. And because they have carried it for so long, it has become a part of their life. They don’t realize that the weight is still there. Unforgiveness of heart will cause you to be overloaded and burdened. Then there are those whose sins are weighing them down. They keep saying, “Being a Christian is so hard. I just can’t overcome the temptation that is plaguing me.”  Jesus was tempted in all points just like we are, and yet He did not sin. If you truly have His Spirit living in you, and you are feeding it daily with the word of God and you are making up your mind not to give in to the temptation, you can be an overcomer of the enticement of sin. Always remember, temptation is not a sin until you give in to it. With Jesus inside of you, you can use your God given power to defeat it. 

Sing: I’m trading my sickness, I’m trading my pain, and I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord. I’m trading my sorrow, I’m trading my shame, I’m laying them down for the joy of the Lord.

Yes, Lord, yes, Lord, yes, yes, Lord. Yes, Lord, yes, Lord, yes, yes, Lord. Yes, Lord, yes, Lord, yes, yes, Lord, Amen! 

Thought For Today: Are you getting tired of carrying those weights?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 18

Jesus Take the Wheel

“Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever feel hopeless? And does it seem that everything that you are trying to do just seems to keep spinning out of control? Do you feel like your situations and circumstances are driving you insane? Do you find yourself with restless nights and troubled days? Does it feel like just when you think that you see a light at the end of the tunnel, here comes another train loaded with problems, burdens, and care? Well, if this is you, then it’s time for you to get out of the driver’s seat and tell Jesus to take the wheel. If you will move to the back seat and let Him drive, you will see that He was taking you through to the place of peace, safety, and contentment. For He says: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30)

Sing: I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus, since I found in Him a friend so strong and true. I would tell you how He changed my life completely, He did something that no other friend could do.

No one ever cared for me, like Jesus; there’s no other friend so kind as He; No one else could take the sin and darkness from me, O how much He cares for me.

Thought For Today: “For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.” (Isaiah 41:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 17

There Is More To Do In The Kingdom

“After these things the Lord appointed other seventy also, and sent them two and two before his face into every city and place, whither he himself would come. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great, but the labourers are few: pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.” (Luke 10:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: Growing up on a farm, there was always a need for laborers. There seemed to always be work that needed to be done. From sunup to sundown, from planting to reaping, work needed to be done to bring in the harvest. Jesus, being the husbandman, knew this as well. When He told the parable of the householder seeking labors in Matthew 20:1-16, He said that he went out until the 11^th hour seeking laborers. Jesus was stressing the importance of needed laborers for the bringing in of the harvest. He said, Lift-up your eyes and look on the fields for they are white unto harvest. There is more work to be done in the kingdom. Souls are ripe for the picking. Fruit is dying and drying up on the vine.  And Jesus has brought you into His kingdom for such a time as this to help Him bring in the harvest.  Solomon tells us: “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise.” (Proverbs 11:30) Can Jesus count on you to go labor in His field?

Sing: My house if full, but my fields are empty, who will go and work for me today? It seems my children all want to stay around my table, but no one wants to work in my fields, no one wants to work in my fields.

Thought For Today: Consider your ways.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 16

How Do We Get There From Here?

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest; and how can we know the way? Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:1-6)

Today’s Morsel: The GPS has taken the pain and worry out of most of our travels. We can now just put in our destination’s address into our phones, OnStar, or navigational GPS and away we go. It will take us to our destination. But back in the day, before GPS, you would need to know how to read a map or be able to take good notes and directions from the person you were heading to see or the location you were going to visit.  The children of Israel wanted to know where they were going and how they were going to get there. They were told that they were heading to the promised land, but all they saw was desert. And when they came to the Red Sea, they determined at that point that they were lost, and that Moses didn’t know where he was going. When Jesus told the disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them, Thomas wanted to know how they would get from here to there, and by what way. Jesus told him that He was the way and to just follow Him and He would find the way. Are you wondering how you are going to get from here to your heavenly mansion? Well, Paul tells us: “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4) If you have been born-again of the water and the spirit, and are following Jesus, it’s going to be like getting on an airplane, closing your eyes, falling to sleep, and when you awake you are going to be there ready to walk on those streets of gold. Hallelujah!

Sing: The captain of the vessel, he’s calling get onboard, and the destinations heaven, safe on the crystal shores, where we’ll meet our splendid Savior, and loved ones who has gone before; we’ll stand all eternity, thank God I’m going home.

I’m going home with Jesus, in the twinkling of an eye, I’ve made my reservation, for my mansion in the sky. I may not know the moment, or I may not know the day, but I know that I’ll be leaving when He call His church away.

Thought For Today: “Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:” (Hebrews 12:14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 14

The War Within

“For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good. Now then it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. For I know that in me (that is, in my flesh,) dwelleth no good thing: for to will is present with me; but how to perform that which is good I find not. For the good that I would I do not: but the evil which I would not, that I do. Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me. I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me. For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members. O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death? I thank God through Jesus Christ our Lord. So then with the mind I myself serve the law of God; but with the flesh the law of sin.” (Romans 7:14-25)

Today’s Morsel: If we are not careful, we can think that Paul is struggling with sin in his life from some of Paul’s writings.  But Paul isn’t struggling with sin. In his writings, he’s showing us what it is like to struggle when we retain sin in our lives as born-again believers. This is why we must repent of our sins and go on to perfection or we will struggle in this life. Paul gives us an example that the law of God is spiritual, but he is carnal. He’s giving us a picture of walking in the spirit versus walking in the flesh.  Remember, now he's given us an example.  And because when one is carnal, he says “for that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I. If then I do that which I would not, I consent unto the law that it is good.” Because when we walk in the flesh, we are going to do always those things which are contrary to the Spirit.  And that is why many struggle in their walk with God and are not doing His will. They have not stopped walking in the flesh. In Romans Chapter 8, Paul says: “For they that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh; but they that are after the Spirit the things of the Spirit. For to be carnally minded is death; but to be spiritually minded is life and peace. Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his. And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because of righteousness. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you. Therefore, brethren, we are debtors, not to the flesh, to live after the flesh. For if ye live after the flesh, ye shall die: but if ye through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, ye shall live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.” (Romans 8:5-14) Paul continues by saying, “Now if I do that I would not, it is no more I that do it, but sin that dwelleth in me.” He said I have sin in my life if I am not able to follow the law. And because of this, he says, “I find then a law, that, when I would do good, evil is present with me.”  You can’t do good when there’s sin present in your life.  It is always going to be war within. You know what you ought to do, but sin won’t let you and the war rages. If you want to learn how to have victory over sin in your life, then you must walk in the Spirit so that you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh.

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

Thought For Today: “For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 13

Stop Condemning Yourself

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” (Romans 8:1)

Today’s Morsel: One of the worst kinds of condemnation is self-condemnation. Self-c0ndemnation is the act or habit of condemning yourself.  Self-condemnation often rains down lies that you’re worthless and unforgivable. You are a loser just like your parents. No one cares about who you are. You’re a loser. You are no good. But we know that God’s word says otherwise. God’s word says that we have worth because we were created in His image. Peter tells us: “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: Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.” (1 Peter 2:9-10) Maybe some of this stuff may have been true before we were born-again but not now.  You don’t need to condemn yourself because you have made some mistakes. That’s what the blood of Jesus was for. To forgive us and to wash away our sins. The only way you will keep condemning yourself is if you keep walking in the flesh. “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7) So stop being guilty and beating yourself up. Jesus loves you more than you will ever know.

Sing: He knew me, and yet He loved me. He whose glory made the heavens shine. I’m so unworthy, of such mercy, yet when He was on the cross, you and I were on His mind.

Thought For Today: “And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: But I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.” (Luke 22:31-32)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 12

Foolish and Weak

“Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.” (1 Corinthians 1:25-29)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever just observe nature? What do you think when you see the ants carrying bread bigger than they are? Or what about the chameleon that can blend in with its surrounding when danger approaches it? Have you ever considered that water can cleanse, kill, and save. The same is true with fire. If we try to figure it out with our natural minds, it’s both foolish. But we need to look through a different lens to gain understanding. Paul says that God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise. Those who think that they know everything, soon realize just how little they know when it comes to God, His ways, and His creation. The Jews were totally confounded when they heard that Paul was saved and preaching the gospel of Christ. Especially after he had just had Stephen killed and had arrested others and had others killed or placed into prison. To many that would be seen as being foolish. Why would God choose someone who was killing and arresting those who He had already saved, and then make him a preacher of the same gospel? Its confounding, isn’t it? But God’s ways aren’t our ways nor are His thoughts like ours’. And even this same Paul tells us that when he is weak then is he strong. How does that work? The answer is that when we feel helpless and without strength, we must put our trust in the Lord and let Him work for us, and that will give us power to stand in our weakness. Whether foolish things or weak things, God can use both for His glory. And that includes us.

Sing: Who is this who for our sorrow offers comfort and relief, bringing sunshine to the dark and shadowed life. Saying softly cease repining, lift thy soul above its grief, let the peace pass understanding still the strife.

O’ it is Jesus, Jesus, sad ones weep no more. He will heal the brokenhearted, open wide the prison door. He is able to deliver evermore.

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 September 11

Power Belongs Unto God

“God hath spoken once; twice have I heard this; that power belongeth unto God. Also unto thee, O Lord, belongeth mercy: for thou renderest to every man according to his work.” (Psalms 62:11-12)

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever noticed that man just seems to think that they have power over others. Power is not given to us by God to rein and to control people. It is given to lead and to serve in a godly way. Even Pilate thought that he had power over Jesus, when Pilate said to him, “Speakest thou not unto me? knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and have power to release thee? Jesus answered, Thou couldest have no power at all against me, except it were given thee from above: therefore he that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.” (John 19:10-11) Jesus told him to consider again. That he didn’t have any power over Him unless He gave it to him. As the psalmist said, Power belongeth unto God. As Jesus told His disciples: “It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. 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 1:7-8) The Holy Ghost, which is the Spirit of God, gives us power. When we have this power, we have the authority to witness, stand bold, and be a godly example of who He is. How do you use your power? 

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

Thought For Today: “Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all.” (1 Chronicles 29:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 10

Trust God At All Times

“In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God. Trust in him at all times; ye people, pour out your heart before him: God is a refuge for us. Selah.” (Psalms 62:7-8)

Today’s Morsel: Trusting in God must become a habit in your life. You can’t only trust God when things are going well. You must trust Him even if it seems that things are going bad. If our homes are destroyed, we lose our job, or our health fails, or our loved ones backslide and stop serving God, we still must trust Him. As God said through the prophet Jeremiah: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end. Then shall ye call upon me, and ye shall go and pray unto me, and I will hearken unto you. And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:11-13) Job enlightened us with these words: “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him. He also shall be my salvation: for an hypocrite shall not come before him.” (Job 13:15-16); “For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease. Though the root thereof wax old in the earth, and the stock thereof die in the ground; Yet through the scent of water it will bud and bring forth boughs like a plant.” (Job 14:7-9) No matter what you are going through, don’t throw in the towel. Instead, keep washing feet with it and keep your trust in God. He that will come, will come, and not tarry. Now the just must live by faith. 

Sing: We talk of faith, when we are up on the mountain, cause faith comes easy when life is at its best; but it’s down in the valley, of trials and temptation, because that’s where faith is really put to the test.

But the God of 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; and the God of the day, is still God in the night. 

Thought For Today: “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 9

First Fruits

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning. Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.” (James 1:17-18)

Today’s Morsel: First fruits were the first. They were the first things that had to be given back to God. Moses told the children of Israel: “Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors: the firstborn of thy sons shalt thou give unto me.” (Exodus 22:29) You must not hold back from God what is rightfully His. When we fail to give to God our first fruits, we are withholding from Him, and He is not obligated to do anything for us ever again. Even our tithe and offerings must be first. Scripture says: “And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.” (Genesis 4:1-7) Notice that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering He had not respect. Cain just brought of the fruit of the ground. Scripture does not say that it was of Cain’s first. And his offering was rejected.  But scripture does say that Abel brought the of the firstlings and the fat. His best. God doesn’t need anything from us. Everything is already His. But He asks of us, to teach us the lesson of keeping Him first in our lives, and showing appreciation for what He does for us. 

Sing: Heavenly Father, I appreciate You. Heavenly Father, I appreciate You. I love You, adore You, I bow down before You; Heavenly Father, I appreciate You.

 Thought For Today: “Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.” (Haggai 1:6-7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 7

That Taste Good

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts.” (Jeremiah 15:16)

Today’s Morsel: We all need a daily intake of the Word of God. The Word of God is called the ‘Bread of Life’. And Jesus said that He is that Bread of Life (John 6:35). When we study and read God’s Word, we are partaking of Him. David said: “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him.” (Psalms 34:8) We usually develop our taste for something at a young age. For me, when I was a brand-new Christian, my pastor would always tell me that I must love the Word of God more than anything else. And I took him at his word, and Jesus has been so very good to me. I just can’t get enough of Him, because He tastes so good every day. I promise you, that if you will spend just a few minutes of your time daily reading and studying His Word, and spend some time with Him in prayer, you, too, will see how good He really is.

Sing: He gets sweeter as the days go by. He gets sweeter as the moments fly. His love is richer, deeper, fuller, sweeter; sweeter, sweeter, sweeter, as the days go by.

Thought For Today: “This is that bread which came down from heaven: not as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead: he that eateth of this bread shall live for ever.” (John 6:58)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 6

Dishonesty Only Hurts You

“Divers weights, and divers measures, both of them are alike abomination to the LORD.” (Proverbs 20:10)

Today’s Morsel: How much of what you are going through right now is of your own doing? I know that we often like to blame others for our circumstances and situations, but do we ever evaluate ourselves to see if what we are going through is of our own doing? Are you aware that if you are not honest with yourself, you won’t be honest with others? Some folks never consider that you are not honest with them, but you yourself know if you are or not. And you must live with it. When I take my vehicle in for repair, or If I must have someone come to my home to repair an appliance, I like to see the look on their faces when they say to me, this or that needs to be repaired and it’s going to cost you this much. I look them in their eyes and say, “You are the professional and I trust your integrity.” They may cheat me, but they must live with their sleepless nights and unhappiness, because of their dishonesty. Others may be dishonest to you here, but unless they repent, they will receive their reward.   

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: “And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.” (Luke 16:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 5

Don’t Reject Corrective Criticism

“He is in the way of life that keepeth instruction: but he that refuseth reproof erreth.” (Proverbs 10:17)

Today’s Morsel: The Bible tells us, “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:” (2 Timothy 3:16) God’s word is designed to correct us and to change us, so that we will become more like Him in character and actions. But if we reject those instructions for correction and reproof, then we may find ourselves outside of the ways of life and running headlong into self-destruction.  Always remember, the wise are always seeking to know and to better themselves. But the fool passes on and is punished.

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

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 4

Read The Instructions

“Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.” (Proverbs 4:13)

Today’s Morsel: The things which you need to know are usually found in the instructions. If you are making Hamburger Helper, the instructions are on the back of the box so that you make it right. If you want to make a cake or cookies like your mother and grandmother, simply read and follow their recipe. They are the instructions. If you want to pass a test, read the instructions. If you want to have friends, read the instructions. If you want to have a great spouse, read the instructions. If you want to know how to save money, read the instructions. If you want to know how to serve God and enjoy life, read the instructions. If you want to know how to stay out of trouble with the law and others, read the instructions. If you want to know how to be the best Christian ever, read the instructions. The Bible is the instruction book for life, it is just Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. Solomon said that we should take fast hold of instruction; let her not go; keep her; for she is they life. As Paul said: “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.” (2 Timothy 3:16-17) All of life’s problems and issues can be solved in your life and the life of others if you and they will read and take hold of the instructions God has given to us. The Bible is not just any book, it is your life.

Sing: Our Lord God, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy great power. Our Lord God, Thou hast made the heavens and the earth by Thy outstretched arm. Nothing is too difficult for Thee, nothing is too difficult for Thee. Great and Mighty God, in counsel, mighty indeed, nothing, nothing, absolutely nothing, nothing is too difficult for Thee.

Thought For Today: “Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.” (Proverbs 23:23)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 3

Make Up Your Mind

“Now therefore fear the LORD, and serve him in sincerity and in truth: and put away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood, and in Egypt; and serve ye the LORD. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” (Joshua 24:14-15)

Today’s Morsel: Throughout scripture we can easily see what happens when folks will not make-up their minds to serve and follow God. The children of Israel found themselves doubting and missed being able to enter the promised land. And the writer of Hebrews cautions us to not allow that same spirit of unbelief to get into our hearts or else we too will miss the mark (Hebrews 3). You see, to serve God requires you to make-up your mind if you are going to follow Him or not. God isn’t going to keep pulling the rope of your heart telling you to get up and come on. Most people who struggle in their walk with God and seem to never reach perfection are those who have not made up their minds to serve Him. You can go to church, but that doesn’t mean that your mind is made up. We saw this during the COVID 19 Pandemic.  Many who had been attending church fell away from their religions during those years.  Joshua says we must stop playing around and choose. He said, if you don’t want to serve God, don’t blame someone else, go ahead and do your own thing. But if you think that what God is offering you is better than what the world is offering you, then make up your mind and serve Him (Emphasis mine). Have you made up your mind? It’s so much easier to live for God and then to be able to navigate through life’s issues when you do. As Isaiah said: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” (Isaiah 26:3). Make up your mind, choose you this day!

Sing: I’m going through, yes, I’m going through; I’ll pay the price no matter what others do. I’ll take the way with the Lord’s despised few; I started out with Jesus, and I’m going through.

Thought For Today: “My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.” (Psalms 57:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2024 September 2

 Labor Day

“And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat.” (Mark 6:30-31)

Today’s Morsel: Labor Day is an American federal holiday to celebrate, honor, and recognize the American Labor Movement and the workers and contributions of laborers to the development and achievements of the United States. Hopefully, it will be a time for rest and relaxion for all. Work is good, but there comes a time that we all need rest. 

When we turn to the church, we each are commissioned to carry the whole gospel to the whole world, by the whole church. Our labor can sometimes be taxing. Especially when we are seeking to save the lost, perfect the saints, and edify the body of Christ. We are laboring together with Christ to build His church and His kingdom. As we labor daily to reach the lost and disciple others, it can at times become tiring, and we will need a time of rest. Scripture tells us that Jesus told His disciples to come apart and rest a while for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. Do you need a little rest from your labor? If so, why not take a day off and get the needed rest that you need so that you can be refreshed and then get back into the battle that is before us. 

Sing: When you see me praying, I’m working on the building, I’m working on the building for my Lord. Well, I never get tired, working on the building, I’m going up to heaven to get my reward.

Thought For Today: “For ye remember, brethren, our labour and travail: for labouring night and day, because we would not be chargeable unto any of you, we preached unto you the gospel of God.” (1 Thessalonians 2:9)