Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 Apr 21

The Wages of Sin Is Death

“What then? shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid. Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness? But God be thanked, that ye were the servants of sin, but ye have obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine which was delivered you. Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness. I speak after the manner of men because of the infirmity of your flesh: for as ye have yielded your members servants to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity; even so now yield your members servants to righteousness unto holiness. For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness. What fruit had ye then in those things whereof ye are now ashamed? for the end of those things is death. But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” (Romans 6:15-23)

Today’s Morsel: I often ask myself, Why would a person walk away from the sweet word and goodness of God? But they do. But my prayer daily is that the Lord will keep me from falling and preserve me blameless before Him. I want to hear Him say, Well done. For the past 41 years, I have seen just how good and wonderful God truly is. For the first 34 years of my life, I was not aware of all His goodness and benefits. I had heard some of the truth, but not enough to draw me to Him. I would go to church, but nothing shook me to the point to where I wanted to let go of my sins. It was never made known to me that the wages of sin was death. It had never been told me that if I wandered out of the ways of understanding that I would remain in the congregation of the dead (Proverbs 21:16). I was never told that, “Good understanding giveth favour: but the way of transgressors is hard.” (Proverbs 13:15) But now I understand why my life was turned upside down. I was trying to live without the power to overcome the sin in my life. But one day, when Jesus revealed Himself to me, and I obeyed the gospel and was baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and filled with His Spirit, sin lost its grip on me. And now I no longer fear death or dying, because sin no longer has a grip on me.

Sing: Once like a bird in prison I dwelt, no freedom from my sorrow I felt, but Jesus came and listened to me, and glory to God, He set me free. 

He set me free yes, He set 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: Stay in the way of understanding, as both death and life are eternal. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 20

The Spirit of Man

“The spirit of man is the candle of the LORD, searching all the inward parts of the belly.” (Proverbs 20:27)

Today’s Morsel: Have you ever heard some speaking about others say, They have a good spirit about them? Or, They have such a sweet spirit. Ones with this kind of spirit are oftentimes selfless, showing unconditional love, and people who radiate kindness and generosity without expecting anything in return. They are often emotionally sensitive to the needs of others, forgiving, and peace-loving. They build others up. They can often see the good in others and help push them to the top. They give when they see the need, and their actions are genuine, not intending to draw attention to themselves nor fuel their own ego. Solomon states that the spirit of these types of people is the candle of the Lord. Their inward man is being fed from God’s word, and they can see what God is doing and desires of them to do. They are what Jesus calls a city on the hill. They are what He calls the salt of the earth and the light of the world. The spirit of these types of people is called the anointed ones.

Sing: Anointing fall on me, anointing fall on me. Let the power of the Holy Ghost fall on me. Anointing fall on me.

Thought For Today: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” (3 John 1:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 18

Stop Killing Your Faith

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Proverbs 18:21) 

Today’s Morsel: Some folks are depressed and stressed, and they live in that state because they have put themselves there. While some others suffer from fear and hopelessness, because they have made them their badge of courage. Solomon says that death and life are in the power of the tongue. I have found that in the church some folks just like to belittle and degrade themselves. They have become Debbie Downers. In other words, everything they do and say defeats themselves. They never see themselves on the mountain top. They are always in the valley and Satan is always after them. They are never enthused about anything. They always focus on the negative and never the good. They live in gloom and despair. Do you know which part of the tribes of Israel was always being attacked? It was those in hinder parts. Those who were lagging in the rear and would not keep up. The weak and the feeble minded. If Jesus gave us power when we received the Holy Ghost (and He did), you must stop kill your own faith. Somewhere you must allow the Spirit to start working through you and on your behalf. You must start talking and acting like you are victorious and a child of God. You must get that woe is me, out of your vocabulary and start encouraging yourself like Paul when he said: “But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24) It’s time to stop destroying your faith and start living by your faith, or you will not see God. 

Sing: The Lord saved me, tell me, why should I be bound; the Lord saved me, tell me why, should I, be bound. The Lord saved me, tell me why, should I be bound, why should I be bound.

Thought For Today: Hell only wins if you let it. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 17

Self-Control

“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; Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;” (1 Timothy 2:1-9)

Today’s Morsel: One of the traits of character of Jesus is that of temperance, which is self-control. When we received the Holy Ghost, it gives us power over ourselves. It gives us power to make right choices and right decision. It teaches us to refrain ourselves from all evils. It teaches us how to act. How to behave, and even how to conduct ourselves when it comes to speaking, eating, drinking, sitting, and interacting with others. I have concluded within myself, that those who say that they have the Holy Ghost and cannot control themselves, have deceived themselves. Paul told Timothy, that the women in the church should not only have honor and respect for themselves, but also have sound mindedness and self-control. Solomon states that even a fool who has self-control is counted wise, and he that learns when to speak and when to keep silent is esteemed a man of understanding. The Holy Ghost gives us power over our own desire, we simply need to use the power it gives us.  

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

Thought For Today: If you cannot control yourself, the devil will. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 16

Which Is Better

“How much better is it to get wisdom than gold! and to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver!” (Proverbs 16:16)

Today’s Morsel: I hate it when I am sitting in the chair in the optometrist’s office and she’s flipping the button asking me, which is better, 1 or 2? 3 or 4? Sometimes I will say, “They are the same.” Just to throw her off.  Solomon says how much better is it to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding rather to be chosen than silver. He’s saying which one is better. Which one of the two do you think is better for your life. Which one do you think is going to provide you with what you need in the long run. Some folks would choose the gold and silver rather than wisdom and understanding. Scripture says, “For wisdom is a defence, and money is a defence: but the excellency of knowledge is, that wisdom giveth life to them that have it.” (Ecclesiastes 7:12) He says that wisdom is superior to money because it provides spiritual and practical life-giving benefits that wealth cannot, such as longevity or quality of life. He also emphasizes that while money is useful, it is not a substitute for the life-preserving power of wisdom. So, which is better for you?

Sing: How lovely is your dwelling place, Oh God Almighty, for my soul longs and even faints for You; one thing I ask that I might see Your beauty, to find the place where Your glory dwells.

Better is one day in Your courts, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your courts than thousands elsewhere. Better is one day in Your courts, better is one day in your house, better is one day in your courts than thousands elsewhere, than thousands elsewhere. 

Thought For Today: “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs 4:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 15

Disappointed Purposes

“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” (Proverbs 15:22)

Today’s Morsel: The Bible tells us that without counsel our intention and plans can fail and cause us disappointment. We should not be afraid to ask a godly counselor, friend, or mentor, for their advice when it comes to our plans. Keeping in mind that these are people who we oftentimes trust and they have our best interest at heart. Your friends and mentors can often see things in your plans that you may not have considered or the person you may be thinking about getting involved with. Jesus said: “For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to finish it? Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, Saying, This man began to build, and was not able to finish. Or what king, going to make war against another king, sitteth not down first, and consulteth whether he be able with ten thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty thousand? Or else, while the other is yet a great way off, he sendeth an ambassage, and desireth conditions of peace.” (Luke 14:28-32) You need others to provide you with advice so that you do not look like a fool and or you end up in a bad situation.  When you allow counselors to assist you with your goals and plans, they will be established.

Sing: I have found a friend in Jesus, He everything to me, He’s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul; ‘The Lily of the Valley’ in Him alone I see, all I need to cleanse and make me fully whole. In sorrow He’s my comfort, in trouble He’s my stay, He tells me, every care on Him to roll; He’s the “Lily of the Valley, the Bright and Morning Star,” He’s the fairest of ten thousand to my soul.

Thought For Today: Purposes are only disappointed when you try to be the Lone Ranger.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 14

True and False Witnesses

“Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.” (Matthew 7:15-20)

Today’s Morsel: Are you able to discern false witnesses of Jesus from the true ones? Jesus said that you would know them by their fruits. Paul enlightens us to what fruit came with the Spirit. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23) So your measuring stick is to look for these traits in the life of those who say that they are Christians and witnesses for Christ. The writer of Proverbs tells us: “A true witness delivereth souls: but a deceitful witness speaketh lies.” (Proverbs 14:25) A true witness of Jesus is going to tell you the truth of God’s word and bring it to you in love. A true witness wants to see you saved. They want to see you free from sin, confusion, and they want to see you free from living without hope, peace, and joy in your life. A true witness know that Jesus came to give us life and that more abundantly. The Prophet Isaiah presents those witnesses of Jesus by says:“Therefore my people shall know my name: therefore they shall know in that day that I am he that doth speak: behold, it is I. How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!” (Isaiah 52:6-7) God’s true witnesses will bring you peace and show you the salvation of the Lord. “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call. And with many other words did he testify and exhort, saying, Save yourselves from this untoward generation. Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls. And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.” (Acts 2:37-42)

Sing: I’m so glad that Jesus lifted me, I’m so glad that Jesus lifted me, I’m so glad that Jesus lifted me, I’m singing glory hallelujah, Jesus lifted me.

Thought For Today: “There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe.” (John 1:6-7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 13

No More Sacrifices For Sin

“Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,” (Hebrews 10:23-26)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things about scripture is that sometimes they can be misunderstood as to the meaning of what is being said. The Book of Hebrews uses the word “better” nine times, and the words “let us” eleven times.  This book, according to scholars, was written primarily to those Hebrew Christians who had converted from Judaism to Christianity. And now these new converts were in constant danger of relapsing back into Judaism due to outside pressure and persecution. And some, like some today, were starting to fall away. However, the writer wanted them to know, as well as us, that if they went back to their old way of life, and back into the world, there is no more sacrifice for sin. He wanted them to know that Jesus Christ was the end to the ceremonial law for bringing an animal as a sacrifice for sins. And if they sinned willingly, that there were no more sacrifices under the Old Testament law to remove or forgive their sin. The only thing that they, and we can do, is return to Jesus Christ for the remission and forgiveness of our sin. But if they, and we, choose to walk away, and if Jesus should return, or we die while we are in the world in our sins, then our destination is eternal damnation. So, they were being encouraged to stay and live in this new Christian lifestyle which they had received, as Jesus Christ is now the only one that can forgive everyone of their sins.

Sing: I came to Jesus weary worn and sad; He took my sins away; He took my sins away. And now on Him, I roll my every care. He took my sins away.

He took my sins away, He took my sins away, and He keeps me singing every day, I’m so glad He took my sins away, He took my sins away.

Thought For Today: Only a fool plays Russian Roulette with their life. 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 11

The Blood Still Works

“And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission.” (Hebrews 9:22)

Today’s Morsel: When some folks read scripture in the Old Testament, they are taken aback of the use of blood by the priest for the cleansing and the forgiveness of one’s sin. God told Moses the purpose and reason for the blood: “For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” (Leviticus 17:11) It is the blood that makes reparation, restitution, and atonement for the soul. The atonement means it is what repairs the breach between God and man for man’s sins. When we sin, we need something to bridge the gap and bring us back into a right relationship with God. And so, God used blood. In the Old Testament, He used the blood of animals. But in the New Testament, Jesus became the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sins of the whole world. When He shed His blood on Calvary, it ended the need for the blood of animals. Now Christ’s blood is for the sins of the whole world. If you seek forgiveness for your sin, the blood of Jesus Christ still works. It is not like the blood of bulls and goats which was symbolic of that which was to come and was temporary. The blood of Jesus Christ has the power to cleanse forever. If you need forgiveness of your sins today, the blood of Jesus stills works.

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

Thought For Today: Keep the blood over your door post!   

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 10

Walking In Truth

“He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.” (1 John 2:6)

Today’s Morsel: One of the first lessons that a soldier is taught is that of how to march/walk. They learn to step off on the correct foot first. Did you get that? You must learn to step off on the correct foot first. If a soldier steps off on the wrong foot, he can cause others to stumble, fall, and make the formation seem like a bunch of confused soldiers who do not know what they are doing. By stepping off on the correct foot, soldiers can march in unison. As Christians we must learn how to walk correctly. Paul told the church at Ephesus: “See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16) In a world where there are so many distractions, Satan is trying to trip you up. As a believer, you must learn to be alert and walk assuredly, you must walk circumspectly. We must walk in truth. John reminds us: “He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him.” (1 John 2:9-10) Stay in the light and you won’t fall, but you will walk in truth. Because the word is both light and truth.

Sing: Lord, I can’t even walk without You holding my hand, the mountain’s too high, and the valley’s too wide. Down on my knees, that’s where I learn to stand; and I can’t even walk without You holding my hand.

Thought For Today: “This I say then, walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” (Galatians 5:16)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 9

Follow The Instructions

“Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” (Proverbs 9:9)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever wonder why companies place instructions inside of the box of the items that you purchase? First, it is for safety reasons. They don’t want you to put something together or start to use something incorrectly that could cause you hurt or could be a safety hazard to you. Second, they want you to know how your product works so that you will not become frustrated with it. Third, they want you to put it together correctly and use it correctly so that others will see its beauty and will want to purchase one, too. And fourth, they want you to know how to troubleshoot it should it stop working correctly.  But sad to say, most folks will not follow the instructions. The instructions in the word of God serve some of the same purposes. Remember, the word of God is sharp as a two-edged sword. If used incorrectly, you can hurt yourself and someone else. There are many people today with wounds that they received by others by incorrect use of God’s word. And even some of them have wounded themself with it. Solomon states: “Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser: teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.” (Proverbs 9:9) A wise person does not react with pride to correction, training, tutoring, direction, and directives. They welcome it. Knowing that there is always more to learn. I have come to realize that we live our entire life as students just learning at different levels. And sometimes we are required to repeat the same lessons to ensure that we fully understand truth from error and right from wrong. So don’t reject instructions, you are not the smartest knife in the drawer. And we all need sharpening from time to time.  

Sing: Show me the way, that I must walk with You. Show me the way, that I might be like You. The cry of my heart is to know You more, to live with the power of your hand, stronger each day, showing me Your way.

Thought For Today: “We live our entire life, as students, just learning at different levels (Parker).

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 8

Looking For Love In All the Wrong Places

“Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:” (Isaiah 55:6)

Today’s Morsel: If you are a baby boomer, then you have probably heard that old country and western song entitled, “Looking For Love In All The Wrong Places.” Everyone wants to be loved. But sad to say, some folks keep looking for that love in all the wrong places. The first commandment that God gave to the children of Isreal was, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” (Deuteronomy 6:4-5). When Jesus was asked by the lawyer which commandment was the greatest, Jesus answered him “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.” (Luke 10:27) So are you looking for love in all the wrong places? Scripture states: “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.” (Proverbs 8:17) God is love (1 John 4:7).  Therefore, if we want to find true love, then you must seek after and for Him (Jesus), as He is love, and He is an everlasting love that will never fail you nor forsake you. The place you need to look for His love is in His Word. And once you find it, you must hide it in your heart and allow it to draw you closer to Him. For only Jesus can satisfy your soul.

Sing: I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me; I am so glad that Jesus loves me, that Jesus loves even me. 

Thought For Today: “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.” (Jeremiah 31:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 7

The Waters of Afflictions

“Deep calleth unto deep at the noise of thy waterspouts: all thy waves and thy billows are gone over me. Yet the LORD will command his lovingkindness in the daytime, and in the night his song shall be with me, and my prayer unto the God of my life.” (Psalms 42:7-8)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things we must learn at an early stage in our walk with Christ is not to lose hope in the waters of afflictions. The Lord said through the prophet Isaiah: “But now thus saith the LORD that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee. For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: …” (Isaiah 43:1-3) God said I will be with you, and the waters aren’t going to overflow you. The disciples of Jesus were starting to lose hope when they found themselves in the middle of the sea in the storm. Scripture says that they questioned Jesus whether He cared if they perished? When the 276 on board the ship with Paul as they sailed to Rome encountered a storm called Eucrolydon, Luke said that after 14 days when there was neither sun nor moon or stars that appeared, all hope that they should be saved was taken away (Acts 27:13-20) When you find yourself in the waters of afflictions, you must retain your faith. Without faith you cannot please God. Sometimes the afflictions may be what is testing and proving your faith. For the fruit of the spirit to grown and reproduce in your life, it sometimes must face the harsh weather and storms that comes its way to help strengthen it. David said that the Lord will command His lovingkindness in the daytime, and that his song and prayer would be to the God of his life in the night. Hang in there and don’t lose hope. He that will come will come. God will make a way for you.

Sing: Though the storms keep on raging in my life, and sometimes it’s hard to tell the night from day; Still the hope that lies within is reassured, as I keep my eyes upon the distant shore, I know He’ll lead, me safely to that blessed place He has prepared. But if the storm don’t cease, and just in case the wind keeps on blowing in my life, my soul has been anchored in the Lord.

Thought For Today: If Jesus isn’t worried about the boat sinking, why are you?

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 6

Divine Protection

“They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth for ever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about his people from henceforth even for ever.” (Psalms 125:1-2)

Today’s Morsel: We are promised divine protection and safety when we put our trust in the Lord. God will never leave us nor forsake us. The psalmist also tells us: “He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.” (Psalms 91:1-7) If we stay close to Jesus and walk in His ways, we can put our enemies to flight and stand tall against any giant we face. 

Sing: Keep me close to the side of my Savior and Guide, let me never in darkness roam. Keep my path free from wrath and my soul satisfied.  Fill my way every day with love.

Fill my way every day with love, as I walk with the heavenly Dove; Let me go all the while with a song and a smile.  Fill my way everyday with love.

Thought For Today: “Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” (Luke 12:32)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 4

Why Are You Seeking the Living Among the Dead?

“Now upon the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which they had prepared, and certain others with them. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord Jesus. And it came to pass, as they were much perplexed thereabout, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments: And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among the dead? He is not here, but is risen: remember how he spake unto you when he was yet in Galilee, Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.” (Luke 24:1-7)

Today’s Morsel: To their amazement and surprise, when the ladies went to the tomb the first day of the week, they found the stone was rolled away from the grave where they had buried Jesus. They went inside and did not see the body of Jesus there. But they saw two men who stood by them in shining garments. The men asked them why they were seeking the living among the dead? And they told them, “He is not here but is risen.”  It had gone over their heads when Jesus had told them, “Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up again.”  Jesus Christ is not dead, He is alive. So stop looking for Him where the dead are.  Paul tells us, “Now if Christ be preached that he rose from the dead, how say some among you that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there be no resurrection of the dead, then is Christ not risen: And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain. Yea, and we are found false witnesses of God; because we have testified of God that he raised up Christ: whom he raised not up, if so be that the dead rise not. For if the dead rise not, then is not Christ raised: And if Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins. Then they also which are fallen asleep in Christ are perished. If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. But now is Christ risen from the dead, and become the firstfruits of them that slept.” (1 Corinthians 15:12-20) Don’t live in misery, one day we are going to rise and be with Him. 

Sing: Alive, Alive, Alive forever more, my Jesus is alive, alive forever more.  Alive, alive, alive forever more, my Jesus is alive. Sing hallelujah, sing hallelujah, my Jesus is alive. Alive forever more, sing hallelujah, sing hallelujah, my Jesus is alive.

Thought For Today: “Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” (1 Corinthians 15:51-52) 

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 3

Whatever My Lot

“Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while I go and pray yonder. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to be sorrowful and very heavy. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful, even unto death: tarry ye here, and watch with me. And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak. He went away again the second time, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me, except I drink it, thy will be done. And he came and found them asleep again: for their eyes were heavy. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them, Sleep on now, and take your rest: behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners. Rise, let us be going: behold, he is at hand that doth betray me.” (Matthew 26:36-46)

Today’s Morsel:  Weary and worn, the disciples had spent much time following Jesus and trying to understand their mission. Little did they know, even though Jesus had told them, that His hour drew nigh. But they would not believe nor could they understand that anyone would want to take the life of Jesus Christ, a man who went about healing and doing good to all. But in life, we find, that it is usually this type people that the enemy desires to destroy more than any other. Jesus, knowing that the scripture must be fulfilled, went into the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. He took with Him what some would call His inner circle, Peter, James, and John. And He asked them to watch with Him while He went yonder to prayer. As we read, we see that the disciples were tired and fell asleep leaving Him all alone in His hour of need. But as Jesus prayed that the cup would pass from Him, after the third time at prayer while His disciples slept, He stated: Nevertheless, not my will, but Thy will be done.When you get to the point of nevertheless, this must also be your prayer also, whatever is my lot for Your glory then let it be.

Sing: When peace like a river attendeth my way, when sorrow like sea billows roll; whatever my lot, Thou has taught me to say, “It is well, it is well with my soul.” 

Thought For Today: Death doesn’t have any power over you if you’ve been born again. So accept what lot Jesus sends your way.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 2

The Coming King of Zion

“Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.” (Zechariah 9:9)

Today’s Morsel: Every Prophet of the Old Testament prophesied the coming of the Lord. Zechariah prophesied: “Behold, thy King cometh unto thee: he is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass.” (Zechariah 9:9) He tells us how our King would come and bring us salvation, humble and riding on a donkey. David prophesied: “This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Selah. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, he is the King of glory. Selah.” (Psalms 24:6-10)  The apostle Matthew enlightens us with these words: “And when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come to Bethphage, unto the mount of Olives, then sent Jesus two disciples, Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you, and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her: loose them, and bring them unto me. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The Lord hath need of them; and straightway he will send them. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, saying, Tell ye the daughter of Sion, Behold, thy King cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an ass, and a colt the foal of an ass. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded them, And brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them their clothes, and they set him thereon. And a very great multitude spread their garments in the way; others cut down branches from the trees, and strawed them in the way. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed, cried, saying, Hosanna to the Son of David: Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord; Hosanna in the highest. And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was moved, saying, Who is this? And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of Nazareth of Galilee.” (Matthew 21:1-11) And the apostle Paul enlightens us with these words: “So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” (Hebrews 9:28)Are you looking for your King’s coming?

Sing: Oh, my brother, are you ready for the call? To crown your Savior King and Lord of all. The kingdoms of this world shall soon before Him fall; We shall see the King when He comes.

We shall see the King, we shall see the King, we shall see the King when He comes. He’s coming in His power; we’ll hail the blessed hour. We shall see the King when He comes.

Thought For Today: “Behold, I will send my messenger, and he shall prepare the way before me: and the Lord, whom ye seek, shall suddenly come to his temple, even the messenger of the covenant, whom ye delight in: behold, he shall come, saith the LORD of hosts.” (Malachi 3:1)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 April 1

Whose Report Will You Believe

“Who hath believed our report? and to whom is the arm of the LORD revealed? For he shall grow up before him as a tender plant, and as a root out of a dry ground: he hath no form nor comeliness; and when we shall see him, there is no beauty that we should desire him. He is despised and rejected of men; a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief: and we hid as it were our faces from him; he was despised, and we esteemed him not. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows: yet we did esteem him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on him the iniquity of us all. He was oppressed, and he was afflicted, yet he opened not his mouth: he is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so he openeth not his mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare his generation? for he was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was he stricken. And he made his grave with the wicked, and with the rich in his death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in his mouth.” (Isaiah 53:1-9)

Today’s Morsel: The Prophet Isaiah questioned, ‘Who hath believed our report, and to whom is the arm of the Lord revealed?’ When Philip was sent by the angel into the desert to meet an Ethiopian Eunuch, under Candence the Queen, and the Spirit of the Lord drew him unto the chariot, he heard the man reading from the book of Isaiah. Philip asked him if he understood what he was reading. The Eunuch replied, “How can I except some man should guide me.” “The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth: In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth. And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man? Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus. And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him. And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.” (Acts 8:32-39) Once the Eunuch believed Philip’s report and saw his need, he was baptized. Isaiah prophesied that Jesus would be led as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep dumb before his shearer he would not open his mouth.  This all pointed to the death of Jesus Christ. And his death, burial, and resurrection, would be done for you and me and the whole world. Whose report will you believe?

Sing: He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquity. Surely, He borne all our sorrows, and by His stripes we are healed.

Thought For Today: “But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?” (Romans 10:16)