Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 22

You Always Have The Advantage With Wisdom

“Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness.” (Ecclesiastes 2:13)

Today’s Morsel: We must come to realize that wisdom is always better than folly. Living wisely and prudently is far superior to living in foolishness and recklessly. If I know that something is going to make me better and improve my life, then that is the thing I need in my life. Just as physical light guides our steps and brings clarity, wisdom helps us navigate life safely. In scripture, foolishness is always compared with darkness because it leads to confusion and danger. No matter how good things may look in the world, and no matter how much it may seem that those in the world are having fun and enjoying life, Solomon states: “Then I saw that wisdom excelleth folly, as far as light excelleth darkness.” (Ecclesiastes 2:13) Those who present themselves as having fun and having everything, should not fool you nor draw you away after their lust. “Also, that the soul be without knowledge, it is not good; and he that hasteth with his feet sinneth.” (Proverbs 19:2) If you have godly wisdom, you are far superior in knowledge, understanding, and discretion. Don’t be fooled.  

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: “Wisdom is too high for a fool: he openeth not his mouth in the gate.” (Proverbs 24:7)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 21

Keep Your Soul Satisfied

“The full soul loatheth an honeycomb; but to the hungry soul every bitter thing is sweet.” (Proverbs 27:7)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things we see in the Word of God is that it is food for the soul. The children of Israel were given a portion of manna daily for their sustenance, but they soon started to loathe what God was giving them because they were always full.  For a person who is full and has everything, it becomes easy for them to become ungrateful and reject what others offer them. When people think that they have everything they need in life, they will reject Jesus, His word, and truth. “And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.” (Luke 12:19-21) They see their soul as full and satisfied. But when they hit rock bottom and are starving, they will take anything being offered. When their soul is starving, they will accept any kind of religion that comes their way. This is why we must keep our souls filled with the Word of God; and we will not have to worry about being hungry for the things of this world, as our souls will be well nourished and refreshed.

Sing: Here’s my cup, Lord, I lift it; Lord, come and quench this thirsting on my soul. Bread of heaven feed me till I want no more. Here’s my cup fill it up and make me whole. 

Thought for Today: “And I went unto the angel, and said unto him, Give me the little book. And he said unto me, Take it, and eat it up; and it shall make thy belly bitter, but it shall be in thy mouth sweet as honey.” (Revelation 10:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 20

Change The Way You Think

“My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise. Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp: I myself will awake early. I will praise thee, O Lord, among the people: I will sing unto thee among the nations. For thy mercy is great unto the heavens, and thy truth unto the clouds. Be thou exalted, O God, above the heavens: let thy glory be above all the earth.” (Psalms 57:7-11)

Today’s Morsel: I have come to realize that depression, stress, anxiety, confusion, fear, loneliness, and despondency can all be cured by the way you think. None of the things that I mentioned came with the Holy Spirit. So that lets us know that they are from the enemy of our soul. To rid them out of our life, we need to refocus. We need to get our mind back on Jesus and not on the world and the evils it produces. If you focus on the things of this world and what the people in the world are doing, you are going to be drawn away by your thoughts. Your mind will be plagued by the evil of the world and make it hard for God’s voice and His word to penetrate to your soul. I’m not saying that God cannot get through to you; I’m just saying what Jesus said: “Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God. Those by the wayside are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.” (Luke 8:11-15) If you notice the first three hearts, the word was ineffective in their lives. It wasn’t that Jesus wasn’t sowing the seed; the word was sown, but the soil - the person’s heart - had issues. Jesus isn’t going to take the junk out of your heart, you must do that yourself through godly sorrow or repentance if you want to change, and the word can get through. Watching ungodly media programs and television will clog up your heart. So, change your heart, and your body will follow. 

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: “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” (Romans 12:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 19

Your Blessing Is On The Way

“Therefore all they that devour thee shall be devoured; and all thine adversaries, every one of them, shall go into captivity; and they that spoil thee shall be a spoil, and all that prey upon thee will I give for a prey. For I will restore health unto thee, and I will heal thee of thy wounds, saith the LORD; because they called thee an Outcast, saying, This is Zion, whom no man seeketh after. Thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will bring again the captivity of Jacob's tents, and have mercy on his dwellingplaces; and the city shall be builded upon her own heap, and the palace shall remain after the manner thereof. And out of them shall proceed thanksgiving and the voice of them that make merry: and I will multiply them, and they shall not be few; I will also glorify them, and they shall not be small.” (Jeremiah 30:16-19)

Today’s Morsel: I believe that God is getting ready to do something special for His people who have been faithful and have held true to His word.  I believe that He is getting ready to restore the years that the caterpillars, worms, and beasts have devoured from you. I believe that He is getting ready to open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing that you will not have room enough to receive it. I believe that your situation and circumstances are about to change. Your health is going to be restored, your finances are going to increase, and you will have enough to bless others. So, cast not away your confidence; and don’t lose your patience. He that will come, will come. I believe the backsliders are coming home. I believe the wayward children will be found and returned. I believe that God is going to make a way where there seems to be no way. I believe He’s getting ready to open doors for you that have been shut, those that you were not able to open and go through. I believe His word and promises to you are going to come to pass. So, lift your heads, O ye gates and be ye lifted up, ye everlasting doors, and rejoice for your blessings are on the way. 

Sing: My blessing is coming my way; it’s only a matter of time, until His purpose comes to pass; it’s only a matter of time. I’m waiting for my miracle, I’m waiting for my miracle, I’m waiting for my miracle, overtaken by my blessing.

Thought For Today: “Is any thing too hard for the LORD? At the time appointed I will return unto thee, according to the time of life, and Sarah shall have a son.” (Genesis 18:14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 18

You Can Find Comfort In God’s Word

“Remember the word unto thy servant, upon which thou hast caused me to hope. This is my comfort in my affliction: for thy word hath quickened me.” (Psalms 119:49-50)

Today’s Morsel: The psalmist lets us know that God’s word and promises will provide us with deep comfort, strength, and spiritual renewal during our times of suffering, hardships, and troubles.  The Hebrew word for comfort is ‘Nechamah’, which means consolation, relief, or a soothing presence during distress. The psalmist shows us that we can find solace not in changing circumstances, but in God, who is the Word made flesh (John 1:1;14). Notice he said that this is my comfort in my affliction. He’s saying that the Word will cover all types of pain: physical illnesses, emotional hardships, poverty, and even being mocked and made fun of.  He said that the Word would quicken him. It will give him life. It will restore him to his original state. David said: “And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.” (2 Samuel 23:4) As the writer of Hebrews also enlighten us: “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) Not only is God’s word an anchor for the soul, but it is also a rock in a weary land, and the balm in Gilead. 

Sing: Who is this who for our sorrows 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.

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: “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:11-12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 17

You Can’t Hide Sin; It Will Cause You Shame

“Hide thy face from my sins, and blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from thy presence; and take not thy holy spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit. Then will I teach transgressors thy ways; and sinners shall be converted unto thee.” (Psalms 51:9-13)

Today’s Morsel: I don’t care who you are; you cannot hide your sin. The devil isn’t going to let you do it. He will expose your iniquities and wrongs every time. Some have been embarrassed because their sins were exposed. If your sins are exposed, make sure that they are those under the blood before you became a Christian. As Paul highlights for us: “Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.” (Romans 6:6-14) “For when ye were the servants of sin, ye were free from righteousness.” (Romans 6:20) “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 6:22-23) Sin is of the devil, and he’s the one that Jesus came to destroy.  So, don’t try to hide your sin; confess it and let Jesus get rid of it for you. If you hang on to them too long, Moses said, be sure your sin will find you out. Jesus desires to forgive us of all our sins.  

Sing: I was sinking deep in sin, far from the peaceful shores, very deeply stained within, sinking to rise no more, but the Master of the sea heard my despairing cry, and from the waters lifted me, now safe am I.

Love lifted me, love lifted me, when nothing else could help, love lifted me. Love lifted me, love lifted me, when nothing else could help, love lifted me.

Thought For Today: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 16

God Will Show You the Right Way If You Ask Him

“Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me. Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause. Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.” (Psalms 25:1-5)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever feel as though you may be on the wrong path and heading in the wrong direction? Even in the church, some folks are in a rut and have no clue where they are going. And also in politics, some folks have no clue who they are following and where they are being led. “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); “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children.” (Hosea 4:6)David cried and asked the Lord to shew him the ways of the Lord and to teach him the Lord’s paths. He asked that God would lead him in truth and teach him. When the apostle Thomas told Jesus that they did not know where He was going so how could they know the way, Jesus replied to him:  “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.” (John 14:6) If we follow Jesus, we will not walk in darkness, but we will have the light of life and walk in the right way.

Sing: Just a closer walk with Thee, grant it Jesus is my plea, daily walking close to Thee, let it be, dear Lord, let it be.

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

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 15

Keep Walking In Your Integrity Even If Times Are Hard

“Judge me, O LORD; for I have walked in mine integrity: I have trusted also in the LORD; therefore I shall not slide. Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my reins and my heart. For thy lovingkindness is before mine eyes: and I have walked in thy truth.” (Psalms 26:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: Integrity is one of those traits of character that must be maintained, lived out, and never removed. Job told his friends: “God forbid that I should justify you: till I die I will not remove mine integrity from me.” (Job 27:5) Job’s friends tried to get him to confess to something that he knew he had not done. And so he tells them that he is not going to confess to their lies as truth. He said, until I die, I will not remove my integrity from me. Job’s wife asked him if he would retain his integrity forever and she suggested that he curse God and die. Why would a wife, a woman who is supposed to love you in sickness and in health, request that you do something foolish against God so that you could die? Well, we see Job’s answer to her: “But he said unto her, Thou speakest as one of the foolish women speaketh. What? shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil? In all this did not Job sin with his lips.” (Job 2:10) Integrity is more than just words; it is a lifestyle. It is a firm mindset set on honesty. It is a position taken before the battle rages, and before the storms of life come. Daily, many men and women are being sent off to jail and prison for integrity violations. Integrity is like being handed a birthright because you are the oldest and next in line for the blessing, just like Esau. But if you take on the mindset of Esau and hate or do not value your birthright, the devil will give you a bowl of beans for it every time. If you lose anything in the storms and trials of life, don’t let it be your integrity.

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

Thought for Today: “But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity: redeem me, and be merciful unto me.” (Psalms 26:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 14

Be Careful Of What You Feed Yourself

“When thou sittest to eat with a ruler, consider diligently what is before thee: And put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite. Be not desirous of his dainties: for they are deceitful meat.” (Proverbs 23:1-3)

Today’s Morsel: I was at a church potluck once, and this young man in front of me had on a T-shirt with the caption on the back that said, “I bet you wish you were in line in front of me, because when I finish, there will be nothing left.” I wanted to tap him on the shoulder and ask if I could cut in front of him. (humor). Solomon states that if we are one given to appetite, then we should probably consider putting a knife to our throat. Solomon is trying to show us the reason for having and possessing self-control in our lives. Especially when it comes before those with power. As we say down south, there may be death in them their pots (humor). In olden times, kings, and even today many leaders, do not just sit down and start eating. They have someone who tests and tastes their food and drinks to ensure they are safe for them to consume. Nehemiah was a cupbearer. He tasted everything the king was to be given, and he had proven himself faithful and trustworthy. If you are one of those who sits down and begins eating before your host, you may be setting yourself up for failure. Eating before your host shows a lack of self-discipline and respect. So, be careful how you are presenting yourself, remember you represent The King.   

Sing: Here’s my cup, Lord, I lift it up, Lord, come and quench this thirsting of my soul. Bread of heaven, feed me till I want no more; Here’s my cup fill it up and make me whole.

Thought For Today: “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.” (1 Corinthians 8:9)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 13

Humility 

“The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit: a broken and a contrite heart, O God, thou wilt not despise.” (Psalms 51:17)

Today’s Morsel: Humility is a virtue that we all need. Humility does not mean that you are weak; humility is seen as a virtue of strength. It means that you do not allow pride to control or ruin your life. As people of God, we are called by Scripture to be clothed with humility. The same way that a servant puts on their apron to serve their master, humility is a deliberate act of serving others. Jesus said that it is our duty. Whereas pride makes a person rely on themselves and push God and others away, humility admits that we need God and others. When we humble ourselves before God and others, God will give us favor and show us His strength and grace to accomplish His perfect will in our life. 

Sing: Here I am worshiping You, with lifted hands, worshipping You; Bowing down in spirit and truth, with lifted hands worshipping You.

Thought for Today: “Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:4)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 12

You Have No Reason To Fear When You Know Jesus

“Thus saith the LORD the King of Israel, and his redeemer the LORD of hosts; I am the first, and I am the last; and beside me there is no God. And who, as I, shall call, and shall declare it, and set it in order for me, since I appointed the ancient people? and the things that are coming, and shall come, let them shew unto them. Fear ye not, neither be afraid: have not I told thee from that time, and have declared it? ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside me? yea, there is no God; I know not any.” (Isaiah 44:6-8)

Today’s Morsel: The apostle John, writing to the church in 1 John 4:18, states: “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love.” (1 John 4:18) Fear will cause you heartache and depression if you allow it to get into your heart. You must control fear. And the way you do that is with love. Love for God first and foremost, then His word, and then love for others. Remember the greatest command is to love God and others. The only reason folks live in fear is that they don’t know God, who is love. When you are complete in Him - in other words, your life is wrapped in His life - you know that you are sealed by Him, and nothing can hurt or harm you. When you know God, you have nothing to fear. As the old saying goes, you have nothing to fear but fear itself! David said: “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell. Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be confident. 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 27:1-6). You have no reason to fear when you know Jesus; He has all power in heaven and on earth. 

Sing: He’s the great I Am, the everlasting Father, He’s the prince of peace, the great eternal wonder, holy counselor, and Zion’s righteous governor, He’s the great, He’s the great I Am.

Thought For Today: “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)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 11

The Lord Takes Pleasure In Those Who Reverence Him

“Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God: Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains. He giveth to the beast his food, and to the young ravens which cry. He delighteth not in the strength of the horse: he taketh not pleasure in the legs of a man. The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear him, in those that hope in his mercy.” (Psalms 147:7-11)

Today’s Morsel: One of the things that I often read in Scripture is that God takes pleasure in those who reverence Him. Those who love God and do what His word says will not go unnoticed by Him. God also takes pleasure in those who love His mercy. When God forgives you for your wrong and sin, you ought to show your kindness back to Him. When God gives you His grace and saves you, you ought to thank Him. When God brings your children home from school each day or your spouse home from work, you ought to thank Him. When the doctor tells you that your cancer or some other ailment that you may have had is no longer there or is no longer visible, you ought to thank Him. Don’t wait for the negative report to turn good, you go to the doctor and you get a report that all your initial labs came back normal, you ought to give God great praise and thanks! As the writer of Hebrews informs us:“For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.” (Hebrews 6:10)God will not forget the things you do for others and the kingdom. His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He’s watching us, too.

Sing: Why should I feel discouraged, and why should the shadow come? And why should my heart feel lonely and long for heaven and home. When Jesus is my portion, a constant friend is He, His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches me.

I sing because I’m happy, I sing because I’m free, for His eye is on the sparrow, and I know He watches over me.

Thought For Today: “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.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 10

Inward Fire

“I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?” (Luke 12:49)

Today’s Morsel: Jesus said that He came to send a fire on the earth. But if the fire is already burning, then what will He do if it’s burning? If the Holy Ghost is working inside and through you, Jesus won’t have to reignite you. If the fire in your altar is burning, then Jesus won’t have to get you relit and burning again. Jeremiah said that the word was like fire shut up in his bones, and he had to tell someone about it. The Holy Ghost in you ought to have you on fire and burning always. Jesus asked if when He comes is He going to find faith on the earth? Are you going to be burning and being as effective as you were when He first filled you? Are you going to be as excited and as passionate about the work and things of God as you were when He first called you and chose you? You must never let the fire go out of your altar. You must always be burning. The men with the five talents and two talents received more because their fire was burning for the things of God. The men on the road to Emmaus said: “Did not our heart burn within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he opened to us the scriptures?” (Luke 24:32) That inward fire must always be burning within to rid yourself of the sin and chaff in life.

Sing: Burn in me, burn in me, Holy Ghost fire burn in me.  Yesterday’s gone, today I’m in need, Holy Ghost fire burn in me.

Thought For Today: “My heart was hot within me, while I was musing the fire burned: then spake I with my tongue,” (Psalms 39:3)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 9

No Reason To Worry

“For thus saith the LORD, That after seventy years be accomplished at Babylon I will visit you, and perform my good word toward you, in causing you to return to this place. 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. And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.” (Jeremiah 29:10-14)

Today’s Morsel: Do you ever wonder why so many Christians are filled with worry? What is it that has them gripped that causes them to live in such a state? I’m perplexed. How can one say that they are filled with His Spirit and yet live in a state of worry? The Lord said, 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. If you follow the life of Jacob, he seems to live in a state of worry from the time he cons his father until his death. Jacob has the blessing and birthright from his father, and a promise from God that He will not leave him, yet it seems he lives in a state of worry and fear all the days of his life. You shouldn’t live like this as a Christian. Jesus came to give us life, and that more abundantly. If you live in a state of worry, sooner or later it will cause you to move from a state of worry to deep depression and fear. There is no need for you to worry and fear; you are a child of God, and God is not going to leave you nor forsake you. You need to put your trust in Him and not in yourself or man.

Sing: He is my everything, He is my all. He is my everything, both great and small. He gave His life for me, made everything new. He is my everything; Oh how about you?

Thought For Today: “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.” (Luke 10:19)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 8

Petty Excuses

“And Moses said unto Aaron, What did this people unto thee, that thou hast brought so great a sin upon them? And Aaron said, Let not the anger of my lord wax hot: thou knowest the people, that they are set on mischief. For they said unto me, Make us gods, which shall go before us: for as for this Moses, the man that brought us up out of the land of Egypt, we wot not what is become of him. And I said unto them, Whosoever hath any gold, let them break it off. So they gave it me: then I cast it into the fire, and there came out this calf.” (Exodus 32:21-24)

Today’s Morsel: I’m sure some of you, like me, have wondered why God didn’t smite Aaron for lying. He tells Moses that he threw the earrings into the fire and, poof, out of it came this golden calf. What a lie. Scripture says: “And Aaron said unto them, Break off the golden earrings, which are in the ears of your wives, of your sons, and of your daughters, and bring them unto me. And all the people brake off the golden earrings which were in their ears, and brought them unto Aaron. And he received them at their hand, and fashioned it with a graving tool, after he had made it a molten calf: and they said, These be thy gods, O Israel, which brought thee up out of the land of Egypt.” (Exodus 32:2-4) He made the calf himself. That’s what excuses are: a lie.  If you have a valid reason for why you can’t be somewhere or do certain things, it’s not an excuse; it’s a valid reason. When Samuel asked King Saul why he didn’t do what God told him to do and destroy all the Amalekites: “And Saul said unto Samuel, Yea, I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and have gone the way which the LORD sent me, and have brought Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. But the people took of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the chief of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice unto the LORD thy God in Gilgal. And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” (1 Samuel 15:20-23) His excuse was that it was the people. No, said Samuel, that’s not going to fly with God.  You didn’t do what He told you to do, not what someone else didn’t do. Your excuse isn’t going to save your Kingship (my wording). When it comes to eternal salvation and eternal life, excuses for failing to obey God’s word will not be accepted by Him from any of us. If we are to reign in heaven with Him forever, we must get rid of our petty excuses and do what He tells us to do in His word. We will each answer for ourselves; there will be no excuses accepted.  

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

Thought For Today: Don’t allow any excuse to keep you out of heaven.

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 7

How Well Do You Understand The Resurrection?

“But the rest of the dead lived not again until the thousand years were finished. This is the first resurrection. Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection: on such the second death hath no power, but they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with him a thousand years.” (Revelation 20:5-6)

Today’s Morsel: Paul informs us that the gospel is the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. In other words, Christ Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and rose again the third day according to scripture. But how well do you understand the resurrection? When Jesus told Martha that her brother Lazarus would rise again, she tells Him: “I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day.” (John 11:24) Martha believed in a future resurrection from the dead, but not right now. But Jesus said unto her, “I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this? She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.” (John 11:25-27) Did Martha avoid the question by Christ, or was she perplexed by it? When folks don’t know, they are more likely to change the subject to avoid embarrassment for not knowing. Jesus was telling Martha that the resurrection is not only a future event that will happen but it is a present one when people put their trust in Him. When Jesus tells her that I am, He is saying to her, I am God, and I have the power to give life now and in the future. Do you believe it? What is that first resurrection to which John speaks? It’s what Paul speaks to in Romans 6. “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. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection:” (Romans 6:3-5) To be a part of the first resurrection is to obey Acts 2:38: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.” (Acts 2:38) If you have taken part in the first resurrection, the second death will have no power over you, if you have kept yourself in Christ and His ways.

Sing: Born again, there has been a change in me; born again, just like Jesus said. Born again and all because of Calvary, I’m so glad that I’ve been born again. 

Thought For Today: “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,” (Luke 24:5-6)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 6

A Loss of Passion

“And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and withal how he had slain all the prophets with the sword. Then Jezebel sent a messenger unto Elijah, saying, So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I make not thy life as the life of one of them by to morrow about this time. And when he saw that, he arose, and went for his life, and came to Beersheba, which belongeth to Judah, and left his servant there. But he himself went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.” (1 Kings 19:1-4)

Today’s Morsel: One of the major signs of loss of passion is stress and burnout and a desire to quit. Passion is having a deep love for something or someone. I have yet to figure out why so many lose their passion for the things of God and His ways. But I see it happening often in the world and sadly even in the church.  Some must have certain jobs, but then they lose passion for them. Then there are those in the church who want to be in ministry, but they, too, soon lose their passion for it and want to quit. Why do people lose their passion for something that they say they love? Does Scripture give us an answer? Yes. Paul tells us: “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” (Colossians 3:2) If we take our eyes off the prize, we will lose focus and become weary, worn, and despondent about what we are doing. Elijah had just had a major victory on Mount Carmel. He had seen God answer his prayer and work wonders right before his eyes. But for some reason, he lost his trust in God’s ability to save his life after he had just seen God answer his prayer. There ought not to be anything that hinders and stop you from loving the things of God and for others. As we move forward, let’s keep a heart for the things of God and allow Him to complete the work which He has begun in us. If you lose your passion for the things of God, it will make it easy for you to lose your passion for others and even for God Himself.

Sing:  He is my everything. He is my all, He is my everything, both great and small. He gave His life for me, made everything new. He is my everything, Oh how about you?

Thought For Today: “Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:12)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 5

Characteristics of Pilgrims

“By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise: For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Through faith also Sara herself received strength to conceive seed, and was delivered of a child when she was past age, because she judged him faithful who had promised. Therefore sprang there even of one, and him as good as dead, so many as the stars of the sky in multitude, and as the sand which is by the sea shore innumerable. These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth. For they that say such things declare plainly that they seek a country. And truly, if they had been mindful of that country from whence they came out, they might have had opportunity to have returned. But now they desire a better country, that is, an heavenly: wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God: for he hath prepared for them a city.” (Hebrews 11:8-16)

Today’s Morsel: Some of those who first came to America seeking religious freedom were called pilgrims. They were those wayfarers seeking a better life where they could worship God. Isaiah informs us: “And an highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness; the unclean shall not pass over it; but it shall be for those: the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein. No lion shall be there, nor any ravenous beast shall go up there on, it shall not be found there; but the redeemed shall walk there: And the ransomed of the LORD shall return, and come to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads: they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” (Isaiah 35:8-10) It shall be for those wayfaring men. The writer of Hebrews lists Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Jacob as some of those wayfaring men who classified themselves as strangers and pilgrims on earth, who were looking for a city whose builder and maker was God, and that they were looking for a better country where God was not ashamed to be called their God, because He had prepared for them a city. Are you a pilgrim or a homebody? Are you pleased with where you are, or are you looking for a city whose builder and maker is God? If you don’t seek it, you won’t find it.

Sing: This world is not my home; I’m just passing through. My treasures are laid up somewhere beyond the blue. The angels are beckoning me from heaven’s open door, and I can’t feel at home in this world anymore.

O Lord, you know I have no friend like You. If heaven is 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: “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” (Hebrews 11:13)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 4

Signs of Progress

“I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth. Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.” (John 17:15-21)

Today’s Morsel: A sign of progression and growth is found when we all become one in Christ. If there is division between you and others, then someone isn’t growing and progressing. Paul informed the church at Rome: “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. For if we have been planted together in the likeness of his death, we shall be also in the likeness of his resurrection: Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin. For he that is dead is freed from sin. Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.” (Romans 6:3-12) He informed the church at Corinth: “Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness? And what concord hath Christ with Belial? or what part hath he that believeth with an infidel? And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:14-18) Are you progressing or stuck in a rut? Peter tells us: “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.” (2 Peter 3:18) The sign that you are progressing is that you are one with Christ and others, and you have a deep passion for the things of God and His church.

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: “For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;” (Ephesians 2:14)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 3

The Supreme Virtue

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” (Joshua 1:8)

Today’s Morsel: In the Bible, virtue is defined as possessing moral excellence, goodness, and spiritual strength. The New Testament uses the Greek word Arete, which means human or moral excellence and fine character. The Old Testament uses the Hebrew word Chayil,which means strength, valor, or nobility. In 2 Peter 1:3-5, believers are called by the apostle Peter to add virtue to their faith as a core building block of a godly life. In Philippians 4:8, Paul tells believers to focus their minds on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and that are of a good report, which defines a virtuous lifestyle. And Solomon tells us in Proverbs 31:10 that a virtuous woman's strength, character, and wisdom are above rubies. So, what is this supreme virtue that we must all possess in our lives? It is that of obedience. From creation until the Lord comes again, the Bible calls for us to obey. The first lesson that God taught Adam and which he failed, was that of obedience. God told Adam: “And the LORD God commanded the man, saying, Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat: But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” (Genesis 2:16-17) If you plan to enter the gates of pearls and walk upon the street of gold, and enjoy your heavenly mansion, then you must learn to obey and do what God commands here on earth.

Sing: When we walk with the Lord in the light of His word, what a glory He sheds on our way; While we do His good will, He abides with us still, and with all who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way, to be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

Thought For Today: “And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” (1 Samuel 15:22)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 2

Hold Your Tongue

“Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD. What man is he that desireth life, and loveth many days, that he may see good? Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy lips from speaking guile.” (Psalms 34:11-13)

Today’s Morsel: The control of one’s tongue should be an easy thing to do, especially for a Christian, since temperance comes with the Holy Spirit. James informs us: “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. For every kind of beasts, and of birds, and of serpents, and of things in the sea, is tamed, and hath been tamed of mankind: But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter? Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? so can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.” (James 3:5-12) James is showing us the danger of a tongue out of control. Solomon informs us that death and life are in the power of the tongue. (Proverbs 18:21) Therefore, we must learn when to speak and when to keep silent. Again, James asks: “Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? Let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.” (James 3:13) Wisdom should help you control your speech. As Solomon again says there is: “… a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;” (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Have you learned the time?  David informs us that if we want to know how to respect and honor God, then we must learn to avoid harmful speech, such as gossip, insults, cursing, or cruel words, and that we must refuse to deceive, cheat, or use flattery to trick and deceive others. 

Sing: Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, sing of His mercy and His grace; In the mansions bright and blessed, He’ll prepare for us a place. 

When we all get to heaven, what a day of rejoicing that will be; When we all see Jesus, we will sing and shout the victory. 

Thought For Today: “Be not rash with thy mouth, and let not thine heart be hasty to utter any thing before God: for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few.” (Ecclesiastes 5:2)

Morning Manna by Rufus Parker - 2026 October 1

Greed

“He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house; but he that hateth gifts shall live.” (Proverbs 15:27)

Today’s Morsel: When I was in the army, I saw many soldiers and spouses addicted to BINGO because of greed. They wanted more.  I saw many of them troubled in their minds, depressed, stressed, and even fearful because they were addicted. One of the hidden snares I believe Satan uses to hinder people, and even those in the church, and cause division is greed. Notice what the writer of Proverbs tells us: “He that is greedy of gain troubleth his own house.” In other words, chasing money or taking bribes can harm one’s own family. How would you feel if you were arrested and your family and neighbors found out that it was because of greed? Solomon also informs us that: “He that by usury and unjust gain increaseth his substance, he shall gather it for him that will pity the poor.” (Proverbs 28:8). You may not even know that greed is in you until you start to get angry at others for what they have, you start going about trying to be like them, or you start to lose what you already have consistently over get rich quick schemes, or you think that you need more than what you have now. Paul informs Timothy that a deacon must be free from the love of money. Deacons are helpers and administrators. If they love money, they may rob the offering plate. We all need to be cautious that we do not let greed overtake us or become dissatisfied with what we have. 

Sing: I have decided to follow Jesus, I have decided to follow Jesus, I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.

The cross before me, the world behind me, the cross before me, the world behind me; The cross before me, the world behind me, no turning back, no turning back. 

Thought For Today: “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.” (Colossians 3:1-3)