Morning Manna by Rufus Parker -2026 January 23

The Shocking Question

“And one of the Pharisees desired him that he would eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat down to meat. And, behold, a woman in the city, which was a sinner, when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house, brought an alabaster box of ointment, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the ointment. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that toucheth him: for she is a sinner. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have somewhat to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors: the one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. And when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both. Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most? Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon, Seest thou this woman? I entered into thine house, thou gavest me no water for my feet: but she hath washed my feet with tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. My head with oil thou didst not anoint: but this woman hath anointed my feet with ointment. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many, are forgiven; for she loved much: but to whom little is forgiven, the same loveth little. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also? And he said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.” (Luke 7:36-50)

Today’s Morsel: The story of the woman with the alabaster box appears in all three of the synoptic gospels (Matthew, Mark, and Luke). But we find in the gospel of Mark and Luke whose house Jesus was in when this alabaster box of precious ointment was broken and used upon Jesus.  It was a man name Simon.  After Mary did what she did with her ointment upon Jesus, Simon stated within himself that if Jesus was a prophet, he would know that Mary was a sinner. He failed to realize that Jesus already knew who she was, and he knew Simon’s thoughts the same as he knows ours. And so when Jesus asked him a question about forgiveness to test his understanding of forgiveness, it took Simon by surprise. When Simon gave Jesus the answer to his question, Simon, probably felt good about himself. Especially when Jesus told him that He had rightly judged. But when Jesus explained Mary’s actions, what Simon failed to realize was that Jesus’ parable was questioning his forgiveness of others. The parable should also speak to us, that we must be ready to forgive others for their wrongs and actions when they come to Jesus.

Sing: He set me free, yes, He see me free; He broke the bars of prison for me. I’m glory bound my Jesus to see. Glory to God, He set me free.

Thought For Today: Forgiving someone 460 times for their wrong will increase your faith every time.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 22

Surprise Your Prayers Have Been Answered

“Now about that time Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church. And he killed James the brother of John with the sword. And because he saw it pleased the Jews, he proceeded further to take Peter also. (Then were the days of unleavened bread.) And when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him; intending after Easter to bring him forth to the people. Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him. And when Herod would have brought him forth, the same night Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains: and the keepers before the door kept the prison. And, behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side, and raised him up, saying, Arise up quickly. And his chains fell off from his hands. And the angel said unto him, Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals. And so he did. And he saith unto him, Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me. And he went out, and followed him; and wist not that it was true which was done by the angel; but thought he saw a vision. When they were past the first and the second ward, they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city; which opened to them of his own accord: and they went out, and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him. And when Peter was come to himself, he said, Now I know of a surety, that the Lord hath sent his angel, and hath delivered me out of the hand of Herod, and from all the expectation of the people of the Jews. And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying. And as Peter knocked at the door of the gate, a damsel came to hearken, named Rhoda. And when she knew Peter's voice, she opened not the gate for gladness, but ran in, and told how Peter stood before the gate. And they said unto her, Thou art mad. But she constantly affirmed that it was even so. Then said they, It is his angel. But Peter continued knocking: and when they had opened the door, and saw him, they were astonished.” (Acts 12:1-16)

Today’s Morsel: I am so glad that I learned at an early age as a Christian, that God’s ways are not my ways nor are His thoughts. In today’s passage, we see that Peter had been arrested and placed in prison by Herod, after he had killed the apostle James, and he was holding him to kill him at Easter. But prayers for Peter were being made by the church for his release. When God sent an angel and released him, Peter went to home of Mary, John Mark’s, mother. But when he knocked on the door, the people did not believe that it was him. To their surprise it was him, but they did not believe it even with him standing right before them. I have always questioned, and asked myself this, if they were praying for his release, why didn’t they believe he would be released? If we are going to pray and ask God to heal, deliver, provide for, and make a way, then we should not be faithless. We must get ready to receive His answer and see the outcome at the door! 

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

Thought For Today: All things are possible to him that can believe.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 21

Let’s Go To Church

“I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.” (Psalms 122:1)

Today’s Morsel: There seems to be a spirit that is stealing the joy of people and preventing them from wanting to go to church. Paul states: “And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:” (Ephesians 4:11-15) If Satan can stop your development and stability in Christ, he wins. The Psalmist informs us: “Thy way, O God, is in the sanctuary: who is so great a God as our God?” (Psalms 77:13) We learn God’s way when we go to church. And again David said, “One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the LORD, and to enquire in his temple. For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I offer in his tabernacle sacrifices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the LORD.” (Psalms 27:4-6) He only wanted one thing. To go to church. It’s in the church where we learn and understand the ways of God and get on the road to heaven. Jacob, while sleeping on a rock under his head, had a dream and he observed the angels of God ascending and descending on a ladder in heaven, and God was at the top of the ladder. And when he awakens, he said, this is none other than the house of God and the gateway to heaven. Let me encourage you, go to church, and get on the road that will lead you there.

Sing: In His presence, there’s fulness of joy, at His right hand, there’s pleasures forever more. O’ what fellowship divine, I am His, and He is mine.  In the presence of the Lord, there is fulness of joy.

Thought For Today:  A person who says that they are a Christian but does not go to church is fooling themselves.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 20

Watchout For That Spirit Of Unbelief

“But with whom was he grieved forty years? was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcases fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware he that they should not enter into his rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief.” (Hebrews 3:17-19)

Today’s Morsel: If you are a follower of the news, then you’ve probably said to yourself and to others time and time again, “I can’t believe that people can be so unwise and senseless.” Those last days, which were spoken by Jesus and the apostles, seem to be closer than we may think. Jesus said, “And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in the days of the Son of man. They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed them all. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot; they did eat, they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded; But the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is revealed.” (Luke 17:26-30) Paul tells us: “This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” (2 Timothy 3:1-7) Now is not the time to allow that spirit of unbelief to get into your heart and captivate your mind to where you fall short of the promise and miss the mark of the prize. Remember, the just must live by faith. 

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

Thought For Today: He that cometh to God must believe that He is and a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 19

The Time Is Always Right To Do What Is Right

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

Today’s Morsel: Today our Nation celebrates the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Because he was a minister of the gospel, many of his speeches against inequality, racism, and wrong in America, came from the word of God. And when you sit and listen to his speeches, there is always an undercurrent, telling other’s that there is always a right time to do what is right. Especially when it comes to the treatment of others. No matter if he was speaking to the President of the United States, congress, business dealers, a church congregation, or the young students in colleges or school, his messages were the same; There is always a right time to do what is right. When he led marches in the streets across America, they were peaceful marches. There was no burning of buildings, looting, or robbing. It was always peaceful, because anything else would go against the word of God and not accomplish the intended purpose of the march. There is always a right time to do what is right if we say that we are born-again and know Jesus.  The apostle Peter states: “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in his mouth: Who, when he was reviled, reviled not again; when he suffered, he threatened not; but committed himself to him that judgeth righteously: Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.” (1 Peter 2:21-24) Dr. King, like Jesus, left us an example of how we should live unto righteousness and do what is always right. Are you following their example?

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: “Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” (James 4:17)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 17

Life’s Lessons

“Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding. For I give you good doctrine, forsake ye not my law. For I was my father's son, tender and only beloved in the sight of my mother. He taught me also, and said unto me, Let thine heart retain my words: keep my commandments, and live.” (Proverbs 4:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: If you were to stop and evaluate your life, what life lessons would you say that you have learned? Everything in life teaches you a lesson, but you must be willing to learn. If you are not willing to learn the lessons of life the first go round, you are sure to repeat them again. Life is so much easier when we are willing to learn the first time. Especially from God’s Word. David said, “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.” (Psalms 119:11) Remember, the Bible is just Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. If you study the Bible in advance, when the trials and test of life come, you will probably pass them with flying colors and learn the lesson for which they came. Do you know why Job didn’t give up in his troubles? He prepared for them before they came. He said, “My foot hath held his steps, his way have I kept, and not declined. Neither have I gone back from the commandment of his lips; I have esteemed the words of his mouth more than my necessary food.” (Job 23:11-12); “Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him.” (Job 13:15). Job understood that what happens to others can also happen to him. He knew that it rains on the just and the unjust. He understood that life can throw you some curve balls that you sometimes aren’t going to be able to hit. And even if you swing out as the might Casey did in Mudville, you can still go down in history with your head held high.

Sing: Years I spent in vanity and pride, caring not my Lord was crucified; Knowing it 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: Lessons of life comes in all shapes and sizes. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 16

The Crown of Righteousness

“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at his appearing and his kingdom; Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.” (2 Timothy 4:1-8)

Today’s Morsel: The Bible has a lot to say about righteousness. Righteousness is the quality of being morally right or justifiable. It is a moral state of being, and a way of life that involves living in accordance with God’s Word and His character. It deals with having right relationships with others, acting right, and living right. When David prayed and asked the Lord: “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) David founded that it’s about righteousness.  Notice, he must consistently act according to God’s principles, by making righteous living a habit in his life. The writing is for our learning, Paul said (11 Corinthians 10:11) We cannot receive the Crown of Righteousness if we are not living right. Remember, we reap what we sow!

Sing: If I walk in the pathway of duty, O’ Lord; If I work until the close of the day, Lord. I shall see the great King in all his beauty, when I’ve gone the last mile of the way Lord. 

When I’ve gone, the last mile of the way, oh yeah; I shall rest at the close of the day. For I know, there is a crown awaiting there for me, O’ Lord; When I’ve gone the last mile of the way.

Thought For Today: See that no man steals your crown!

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 15

Winning

“But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. So then death worketh in us, but life in you. We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak; Knowing that he which raised up the Lord Jesus shall raise up us also by Jesus, and shall present us with you. For all things are for your sakes, that the abundant grace might through the thanksgiving of many redound to the glory of God. For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (2 Corinthians 4:7-18)

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever noticed how must emphasis is placed on the mind in the Bible? The writers seem to understand that without a clear and made-up mind it is impossible for us to win. The Lord states: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” (Revelation 2:10) Paul states: “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:6-7) Isaiah states: “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength:” (Isaiah 26:3-4) You can only win when your mind is stronger than your emotions. Your emotions will sometimes be up and down and all around; But if you keep your mind stayed on Jesus, it will be strong and He will propel you to victory.

Sing: I heard an old story, how a Savior came from glory; How He gave His life on Calvary to save a wretch like me. I heard about His groaning, of His precious blood’s atoning; Then I repented of my sins, and won the victory. 

O’ victory in Jesus, my Savior, forever; He sought me and bought me with His redeeming blood. He loved me ere I knew Him and all my love is due Him. He plunged me to victory, beneath the cleansing flood.  

Thought For Today: Always remember that the carnal mind is enmity against God. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 14

Train Your Children

“And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:4)

Today’s Morsel: How many times have you heard, or thought to yourself, “I wish I knew what I know now when I was much younger?” We don’t know everything about life while we are young. At those stages in life, we think that we are the sharpest knife in the drawer, and the wisest kid on the block. We think that old folks are uncaring, and don’t want us to have fun. We fail to realize that they have already encountered what we are heading into. And so, we continue-on, make mistakes, and make poor choices. We find ourselves in debt, in some cases painful relationships, broken promises, and working 10-12 hours a day trying to survive from our choices and decisions; when if we had sought the advice of our parents, or a godly counselor, or listened to our pastors and teachers, we possibly could have avoided some of our dilemmas. Solomon states: “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) And Paul calls for fathers to bring up their children in the ways of the Lord. As adults and parents, you must teach your children early what you learned late.  

Sing: Tell me the story of Jesus, write on my heart every word; Tell me the stories most precious, sweetest that ever was heard; Tell how the angels in chorus, sang as they welcomed His birth, Glory to God in the highest! Peace and good tidings to earth.

Thought For Today: “Keep my commandments, and live; and my law as the apple of thine eye.” (Proverbs 7:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 13

Go Beyond The Surface

“I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchrea: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.” (Romans 16:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: In the 60’s, the group, “The Temptations” sang a song entitled, “Beauty Is Only Skin Deep.” In other words, if you want to see the real person, you must look beyond that initial layer of skin. You want to look on the heart or one’s character. I think this may be why God told Samuel when He sent him to anoint David, King of Isreal, not to look on the outward appearance, as God looks on the heart. God knew David’s heart. Scripture says, “And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” (Acts 13:22) George Washington says, “One of the signs of a beautiful person, is that they always see the beauty in others.” 

Sing: He gave me beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that we might be call trees of righteousness the planted of the Lord, that He might be glorified. 

Thought For Today: Always know the character of a person before you call them friend.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 12

Self-Respect

“Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which ye have learned; and avoid them.” (Romans 16:17)

Today’s Morsel: Self-respect is about the respect that you have for yourself. It’s about what you think of your own self-worth. Not what someone else thinks. Just because others reject you and say evil things about you because you do not give-in nor participate in their evil and sinful ways, shouldn’t cause you to feel bad about who you are. You must realize that character counts. Paul said that we ought to mark them and avoid them which cause divisions and offenses. Life is too short to be concerned with what others think about us. You are the one that must stand before Christ and give an account of the things which you did in your life. If you don’t have respect for yourself, others won’t neither. You build respect by maintaining a high moral standard for yourself, doing things to the best of your ability, and fulfilling your obligations. You also gain respect by standing up for right and wrong, and treating others with respect regardless of their race, creed, color, or national origin. You should always look your best, do your best, and act your best. Respect for yourself and others ought to be firmly rooted in your life. The words that you use ought to be of high moral character. If you use foul language, swear and curse in public, throw trash on the ground, play loud music in the presence of other, put your feet on other’s furniture and tables, play on your cell phone when others are talking to you,  and you are compromising your integrity, you will lose your respect. Others will not respect you. And once you lose the respect that others have for you, it is nearly impossible for you to gain it back again. 

 

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. 

Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine. Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine. Everywhere I go, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine. 

 

Thought For Today: “If you once forfeit the confidence of your fellow citizens, you can never regain their respect and esteem." (President Abraham Lincoln)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 10

Repeat

“O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killest the prophets, and stonest them that are sent unto thee; how often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.” (Luke 13:34-35)

Today’s Morsel: I don’t know if you ever noticed it or not in scripture, but Israel never seemed to get nor grasp God’s ways and words. And so they find themselves repeating the same mistakes repeatedly. The same is true for us. If we do not learn the lessons of life the first time, we will repeat the test. When I went to school, and even in my army days, I tried my very best to pass the test the first time. I didn’t need to repeat it. In scripture, Isreal is an example of folks who did not learn the lessons of life the first time. They just seem to like punishment and captivity.  If you will note, every time they rejected God, they had problems. You would think that somewhere the lightbulb would have gone on. But as Paul said, the things which were written were written for our learning. So, let me encourage you, don’t reject God to where you find yourself repeating life’s lessons over again. 

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

Thought For Today: Only a fool repeats the same mistakes twice.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 9

Smile

“Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.” (Philippians 4:4)

Today’s Morsel: One of the best ways to keep a sweet disposition is to smile. Smiling helps you stay upbeat and focused. Frowns and evil looks cause stress and depression. We must get to the point, too, where we accept every situation with a smile. Anger doesn’t solve anything, it builds nothing. And it can destroy everything that you are trying to do. If the enemy can get you to see your situations as problem to hinder you, he will defeat you. But if you see them as something where you can learn and be able to use what you learn to help yourself and others, he probably won’t send them your way near as often. So, accept your situations with a smile and see what God will do with you through them.

Sing: Put on the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, lift-up your voice to God. Pray in the Spirit and with understanding, O’ magnify the Lord.

Thought For Today: Smile at others. It just might change their disposition. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 8

Change Yourself

“Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls. But they said, We will not walk therein.” (Jeremiah 6:16)

Today’s Morsel: According to George Washington, “Everyone wants to change the world, but no one thinks of changing themselves.” We can never change the world and its evil ways, not until we change ourselves first. Many can see the changes that others need to make in their lives, but few can see the changes that they need to make in their own life. In today passage, we see that apparently the people did not have rest. They must have been perplexed and in despair in some areas of their life, which was preventing them from have peace and contentment in themselves. So the Lord tells them what they needed to do to find rest for their souls. But apparently the answer He gave them was not the answer they wanted to hear. And so they said that we will not walk there in. When God tells you how to fix your problem, you must accept it and do it; because if nothing changes, nothing changes. You are not going to change anything else until you change you and your way of thinking. Folks who do not change when they see that they need to change aren’t hurting others, they are only hurting themselves. Look into yourself and ask the Lord to show you what needs to change.  

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

Thought For Today: To make things better in your life, it starts with changing the man or woman in the mirror.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 7

When The Spirit Tells You Things

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving: For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.” (1 Timothy 4:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: Jesus said, “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.” (John 16:13) Therefore, we must learn how to listen to the Holy Spirit when it speaks to us. God has our best interest at heart. Now is not the time to be ignorant. Living in today’s world calls for wisdom. Again, Jesus says in John 15:4, that the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice. When the Spirit starts telling you things which are to come, you need to be aware and start to take heed. The Holy Spirit which you received came with wisdom, knowledge, understanding, discretion, and instructions to lead you and guide you into all truth. We have already begun to see the great falling away. Some have already returned to the world and its ways. Now is not time to sit back and take a chill pill. Now is the time to be more attentive and alert to what the Spirit is saying to the church, or you may find yourself as the five foolish virgins, missing the bridegroom when He comes.

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

Thought For Today: He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit is saying to the church.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 6

Christ’s School

“This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” (Ephesians 4:17-24)

Today’s Morsel: Back in the days, when I went to school, if you did not do your lessons, learn what the teachers were teaching you, or you failed to come to school because you wanted to play hooky, the teachers would fail you. And that would require you to have to repeat that grade again. But today, they just pass students on, making them think that it’s alright for them to not learn and understand life and how it works. Schools seem to think that children will learn down the road. No, they aren’t going to learn down the road. Life’s lessons are taught at home and in kindergarten. The jails and prisons are filling to capacity, because schools are just passing them on. Educator, trainers, and teachers, must make a difference in others lives.  Sadly, this slothfulness and uncaring attitude is making its way into the church. Don’t tell people what they shouldn’t do, what they shouldn’t wear, or the places that they shouldn’t go. Just send them on and hopefully they will learn down the road. But as Paul tells us, This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that ye henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness. But ye have not so learned Christ; If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. Paul says that in Christ’s school, you learn to do what is right, not what is wrong. Paul, by all accounts, was not a man who patted you on the back and told you that it was okay - you will learn it later. He told the church at Galatia: “O foolish Galatians, who hath bewitched you, that ye should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ hath been evidently set forth, crucified among you? This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh?” (Galatians 3:1-3) He told the church at Corinth that he did not want them to be ignorant. When we enter Christ’s school, He expects us to learn and grow and then go forth and train others. He doesn’t expect us to keep making the same mistakes over and over.

Sing: Deeper, deeper, in the love of Jesus, daily let me go; higher, higher, in the school of wisdom, more of grace to know.

O’ deeper, yet I pray, and higher every day; and wiser blessed Lord, in Thy precious holy word. 

Thought For Today: The number one lesson that we all must learn is that of obedience.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 5

When You Feel All Alone

“Alexander the coppersmith did me much evil: the Lord reward him according to his works: Of whom be thou ware also; for he hath greatly withstood our words. At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge. Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me; that by me the preaching might be fully known, and that all the Gentiles might hear: and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. And the Lord shall deliver me from every evil work, and will preserve me unto his heavenly kingdom: to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:14-18)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever feel as though what you are doing and trying to do for the kingdom of God, that you are own your own? Do you ever start to feel like Elijah, when he told God, “…I have been very jealous for the LORD God of hosts: for the children of Israel have forsaken thy covenant, thrown down thine altars, and slain thy prophets with the sword; and I, even I only, am left; and they seek my life, to take it away.” (1 Kings 19:10)Sometimes in the fight, we may start to feel as though we are all alone and everyone has forsaken us. In today’s world, some folks are no longer concerned with others, they are only concerned with themselves. Paul told Timothy that no man stood with him when he was brought before the judge for his false accusations. Paul didn’t have anyone to stand with him in his defense. He said no man stood with him. And he felt alright with that because he knew that the Lord was with him. You see, when others forsake you, or you start to feel as though you are all alone, don’t ever forget what Jesus told you. “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10) God will never forsake His people.  So you never stand alone.

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

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

Thought For Today: Isolation may be God’s way of showing you His power and talking to you.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 3

God’s Grace

“And you hath he quickened, who were dead in trespasses and sins; Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience: Among whom also we all had our conversation in times past in the lusts of our flesh, fulfilling the desires of the flesh and of the mind; and were by nature the children of wrath, even as others. But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: That in the ages to come he might shew the exceeding riches of his grace in his kindness toward us through Christ Jesus. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:1-8)

Today’s Morsel: Some Christians are afraid to share their testimony of what God has done for them in their life. I can remember my state of life, and others around me knew it as well. I was what you would call a good sinner. If there is such a sinner. I wasn’t a bad sinner. I was a good sinner. I shared what I had with others, encouraged others, helped others, provided for others, and even help lead others to become sinners. But in my eyes, I was not bad. I would put it that I was maybe about three quarters of the way into hell. I may have been closer, only God knows. But God, who is rich in mercy, for His great love wherewith He loved me, even when I was dead in my sins, quickened me together with Christ. Jesus picked me up and turned me around. He stepped in right on time. I’m a witness that He’s an on-time God.  And now I can say as the apostle Paul: “And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry; Who was before a blasphemer, and a persecutor, and injurious: but I obtained mercy, because I did it ignorantly in unbelief.” (1 Timothy 1:12-13) Oh the depth and height of God’s grace, love, and mercy which has He bestowed upon us.

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

Thought For Today: Your personal testimony may be what causes others to find hope, and it may stop someone from committing suicide.  

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 2

Are You Willing To Suffer For The Gospel?

“Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. If ye be reproached for the name of Christ, happy are ye; for the spirit of glory and of God resteth upon you: on their part he is evil spoken of, but on your part he is glorified. But let none of you suffer as a murderer, or as a thief, or as an evildoer, or as a busybody in other men's matters. Yet if any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf.” (1 Peter 4:12-16)

Today’s Morsel: How far are you willing to go for what you believe in? We continue to hear that as the world grows worse and worse; the church will soon begin to suffer persecution from it. Therefore, we must settle it in our minds how far we are willing to go for the gospel. The early church was willing to suffer for the name of Christ and the gospel. Paul encouraged Timothy: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God; Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel: Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles.” (2 Timothy 1:7-11) He calls for us to be a partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God. Paul’s words are a reminder to us to be bold and not allow fear of persecution or social shame to stop us from proclaiming the truth of the gospel and our faith. Peter also encourages us to not think it strange when we are persecuted for Christ and the gospel, but to rejoice because we are becoming a part of Christ’s suffering. So, how far are you willing to go?

Sing: Temptations hidden snares often take us unawares, and our hearts are made to bleed for each thoughtless word or deed; and we wonder why the test, when we try to do our best, but we’ll understand it better by and by.

By and by when the morning comes, all the saints of God are gathering home, we will tell the story how we’ve overcome, we will understand it better by and by.

Thought For Today: Sometimes it’s the persecutions that strength your faith.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 January 1

 Dealing With You

“For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: (For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, when your obedience is fulfilled.” (2 Corinthians 10:3-6)

Today’s Morsel: One of the toughest people you will find to deal with is yourself. For some unknown reason, we find it much easier to help others make corrections in their life than ourselves. We see our wrong, know our wrong, but it’s easier to go on our way and hope that our life will correct itself. Are you aware that David’s son, Absalom, waited two whole years before he killed his brother Amnon? He held bitterness in his heart for Amnon for what he did to his sister Tamar for two years prior to killing him. During those two years, we read nothing where he dealt with his anger and hatred. By all accounts, he allowed it to fester and take root in his life. And when his anger and hatred began to grow, he concocted a plan to kill him. We must not allow bitterness, anger, envy, hate, nor any other wrong toward others to get a foothold and grow in our lives. We must be ready to deal with all disobedience, anger, hatred, and sin in our lives once our obedience in Jesus is fulfilled. 

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

You are the Potter, I am the clay; mold me and make me, this is what I pray.

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

Thought For Today: If you change your heart, your body and actions will follow.