Manna for Your Morning

Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, So our eyes look to the LORD our God, Until He has mercy on us. Psalm 123:1-2 (NKJ) When life is trying to beat you down, lift up your eyes to the LORD our God. He is the provider of all your needs. It's His mighty strength and power we ought to draw from. His hand will wipe away your sorrowful tears. He will carry you in His arms when you feel unable to carry on. Being filled with His Holy Spirit will usher joy and peace into your heart and mind. Yes, look to the LORD. With the Agape Love of God, Jackie

Then Gideon said, "Sir, if the Lord is with us, why are we having so much trouble?" Judges 6:13 (NCV) When the challenges come in one wave after another, many of us have felt like Gideon. We wonder why? God never promised that we wouldn't have trials and sorrows. He did promise to be with us and get us through them. Jesus said, “in the world you will have tribulation,” but He also said, “be of good cheer because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJ). Did you notice the past tense on the word: overcome? He has already established the victory for us. So let us count it all joy when we fall into various trials, and in the end we may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing (James 1:2-4, NKJ). Amen. Love, Jackie

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain. If I am to go on living in the body, this will mean fruitful labor for me. Yet what shall I choose? I do not know! I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far; but it is more necessary for you that I remain in the body. Philippians 1:21-24 (NIV) I thought about this Scripture yesterday on my return trip to the U.S. because I related to Apostle Paul's bittersweet inner struggle. As I said "good- bye" to my sweet daughter, I experienced great sorrow but I also had this burning desire to return to my awesome husband. I felt the dark emptiness one feels leaving a loved one so far away and at the other end of the spectrum a bright joyful anticipation to be in the arms of my better half. As Christians, we long to receive our new bodies and dwell forever in the presence of Almighty God, in a place free of tears and sadness but we are also driven by our passions to remain here on earth a

The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon at night. The Lord keeps you from all harm and watches over your life. The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. Psalm 121:5-8 (NLT) The Lord keeps watch over you, whether you're coming in or going out. He shields you from harm and guards your very life. Praise the Lord for His continual concern. Love, Jackie

Those who love your teachings will find true peace, and nothing will defeat them. Psalm 119:165 (NCV) Follow the Lord's teachings and find true peace in mind, body and soul. His deep, abiding peace will rule in your heart. As we submit to His instruction, we will no longer stagger around in confusion and darkness. His Word is a light on our path to show us the way to go. May your soul be at peace, knowing that God is leading you to a triumphant victory in Christ, the Living Word (2 Corinthians 2:14). Love, Jackie

Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. Your promise revives me; it comforts me in all my troubles. Psalm 119:49-50 (NLT) In affliction, the words of the LORD will comfort and console you. Cling to His promises and they will give you hope. The Word of the LORD stands forever. It will not disappoint. His Word will revive you and give you new life. Love, Jackie

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4 (NIV) Joy is so important to our inner beings, the Apostle Paul repeats his reminder for us to rejoice. Be not grieved and depressed, for the joy of the Lord is your strength and stronghold (Nehemiah 8:10, Amp). This is the day the LORD has made, let us rejoice and be glad each and every day the LORD gives us. Love, Jackie

The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath . Joshua 9:14-15 (NIV) The Israelites were tricked into making a treaty of peace with the Gibeonites because they failed to consult the LORD. These people lived on the land God promised to give the Israelites and they were supposed to wipe them out to ensure they didn't learn any of their ways which the LORD detested. May we learn from the mistake of the Israelites, to always inquire of the LORD and seek His wisdom so He can guide us in the right direction and make us successful. Love, Jackie

The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is full of compassion. The LORD protects the simplehearted; when I was in great need, he saved me. Be at rest once more, O my soul, for the LORD has been good to you. Psalm 116:5-7 (NIV) In times of great need call on the LORD. He is full compassion and grace. Let your soul rest in peace for the LORD is good. He will deliver you from your distress. Praise the LORD! Love, Jackie

“Today I have given you the choice between life and death, between blessings and curses. Now I call on heaven and earth to witness the choice you make. Oh, that you would choose life, so that you and your descendants might live! You can make this choice by loving the Lord your God, obeying him, and committing yourself firmly to him. This is the key to your life.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20 (NLT) Everyday we make choices to follow God’s way and will or take another route. Let's choose wisely. To decide upon God’s way is to choose life and blessings. Seek God and commit yourself to Him by putting Him first in all you do. All kinds of wonderful blessings will come upon you and overtake you as you obey the LORD your God (Deuteronomy 28:2). Love, Jackie Coming to you from England 0800

It is good to be merciful and generous. Those who are fair in their business will never be defeated. Good people will always be remembered. They won't be afraid of bad news; their hearts are steady because they trust the Lord. Psalm 112:5-7 (NCV) Good comes to those who are merciful and generous and fair in their business dealings. The righteous will be remembered for a long time. They have no fear of bad news because they put their confidence in the Lord. Amen. Love, Jackie

Give us aid against the enemy, for the help of man is worthless. With God we will gain the victory, and he will trample down our enemies. Psalm 108:12-13 (NIV) Any help from a human being is limited. Go with God and gain the victory. The LORD is faithful. He is always there and He is mighty to help. Love, Jackie

'For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them.' Acts 28:27 (NIV) Open your eyes to see the goodness of the LORD. It is all around you. Attune your ears to hear His gentle voice. Understand with all your heart, the breath and depth of God's eternal love for you. Then, turn toward the LORD and be healed from the inside out, spiritually, emotionally and physically. Love, Jackie

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. Romans 5:1-2 (NLT) Since we believe in Jesus, who shed His blood and gave His life for us, we now have peace with God. Christ brought us into a place of undeserved privilege, into the very throne room of God. We can approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need (Hebrews 4:16). Love, Jackie

Oh, give thanks to the LORD! Call upon His name; Make known His deeds among the peoples! Sing to Him, sing psalms to Him; Talk of all His wondrous works! Glory in His holy name; Let the hearts of those rejoice who seek the LORD! Seek the LORD and His strength; Seek His face evermore! Psalm 105:1-4 (NKJ) Feeling a little weak and weary? Seek the LORD and His strength. Call upon His name and He will answer. The hearts of those who seek the LORD are full of joy because they find Him and in His Presence are pleasures forevermore. Love, Jackie

God is sheer mercy and grace; not easily angered, he's rich in love. He doesn't endlessly nag and scold, nor hold grudges forever. He doesn't treat us as our sins deserve, nor pay us back in full for our wrongs. As high as heaven is over the earth, so strong is his love to those who fear him. And as far as sunrise is from sunset, he has separated us from our sins. Psalm 103:8-12 (The Message) Our God is full of mercy and grace. He is slow to anger and rich in love. He does not deal with us according to our sins, nor punish us according to our iniquities. Instead He separates us from our sins, as far as the east is from the west. That is reason to cry out, " Praise the LORD, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise His holy name " (Psalm 103:1, NIV). Love, Jackie

Long ago you laid the foundation of the earth and made the heavens with your hands. They will perish, but you remain forever; they will wear out like old clothing. You will change them like a garment and discard them. But you are always the same; you will live forever. Psalm 102:25-27 (NLT) The earth and the heavens will perish but LORD our God remains forever. He is always the same. He is full of undying love and compassion for you. Love the LORD with all your heart, mind, soul and strength. Love, Jackie

Hear my prayer, O LORD, And let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble; Incline Your ear to me; In the day that I call, answer me speedily. Psalm 102:1-2 (NKJ) In the day of trouble, it may seem like the LORD is hiding His face. Truth be told: He never leaves us and His ear is always open to hear our cry. If we are overwhelmed and anxious, it may feel like the LORD is delaying His answer. However, when we peacefully and prayerfully wait on the LORD, His answer comes at the perfect time. May you rest in His arms and your heart be at peace as you wait for your answers. Love, Jackie

Give yourselves completely to serving him, and do not be stubborn any longer. The Lord your God is God of all gods and Lord of all lords. He is the great God, who is strong and wonderful. He does not take sides, and he will not be talked into doing evil. Deuteronomy 10:16-17 (NCV) We have been called according to God's purpose, so let us give ourselves completely to Him and fulfill our God-given assignments. Don't be stubborn and insist on doing things your way. Our great God is strong and wonderful. He doesn't play favorites and He takes no bribes. He has a wonderful plan for each one of us. He has plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future (Jeremiah 29:11). Love, Jackie

Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and his faithfulness continues to each generation. Psalm 100:4-5 (NLT) Thank the Lord for His faithfulness that spans the generations. Praise His holy name for He is good. The Lord continually showers us with His unfailing love. He draws us close to Him and never leaves our side. Glory hallelujah! Rejoice in His great love. Love, Jackie

Oh come, let us worship and bow down; Let us kneel before the LORD our Maker. For He is our God, And we are the people of His pasture, And the sheep of His hand. Psalm 95:6-7 (NKJ) Worship and bow down before the LORD our Maker. He is our God and we are His people. He makes us lie down and rest in lush, green meadows. He leads us beside peaceful streams. In the darkest valley we have no need to fear because He is right there beside us. He leads us and guides us along on the path He has chosen for each one of us. Love, Jackie

Unless the Lord had helped me, I would soon have settled in the silence of the grave. I cried out, “I am slipping!” but your unfailing love, O Lord, supported me. When doubts filled my mind, your comfort gave me renewed hope and cheer. Psalm 94:17-19 (NLT) The help of the Lord has sustained my very life. When we slip and cry out to God, His unfailing love will be our support. When anxious thoughts run rampant in your mind, the Lord will comfort you and renew your hope and joy. Amen. Love, Jackie

But even there, if you seek God, your God, you'll be able to find him if you're serious, looking for him with your whole heart and soul. When troubles come and all these awful things happen to you, in future days you will come back to God, your God, and listen obediently to what he says. God, your God, is above all a compassionate God. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 (The Message) When we seek the LORD our God, we will find Him if we seek Him with all of our hearts and with all of our souls. If we go astray, like the prodigal son, and find ourselves in troubles of any kind, we need to return to our Father, as if our life depended on it (and it does). Because He is a God of compassion, He will welcome us back into fellowship with open arms. He will not abandon you. Seek Him and you'll find Him. Love, Jackie

“And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the LORD your God has done to these two kings; so will the LORD do to all the kingdoms through which you pass. You must not fear them, for the LORD your God Himself fights for you.’ Deuteronomy 3:21-22 (NKJ) Just as the LORD fought for Joshua and the Israelites, He fights for His people today. Your eyes have seen what great deeds God has done in your life. Praise God! Our battles belong to the LORD and He has already given us the victory. Hallelujah! Love, Jackie

The righteous shall flourish like a palm tree, He shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the LORD Shall flourish in the courts of our God. They shall still bear fruit in old age; They shall be fresh and flourishing, To declare that the LORD is upright; He is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in Him. Psalm 92:12-15 (NKJ) Those who abide in the house of the LORD, shall be strong and healthy. They will experience continuous, steady growth because in His Presence, conditions are prime to bring out the best. In the courts of our God, we thrive and are kept fresh. The godly will bear fruit all their lives and declare that the LORD, our Rock, is good and just. Plant yourself in the house of the LORD. Love, Jackie

It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to the Most High. It is good to proclaim your unfailing love in the morning, your faithfulness in the evening, Psalm 92:1-2 (NLT) Let us give thanks to the Lord and sing praises to the Most High. Celebrate all His mighty deeds and the great works He has performed. The fact that He opened your eyes this morning is a proclamation of the unfailing love the Lord has for you. At night, declare His faithfulness for keeping watch over you and getting you through your day. Sing for joy because of what the Lord has done. Love, Jackie

May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us— yes, establish the work of our hands. Psalm 90:17 (NIV) The Encarta Dictionary defines favor as preferential treatment shown to somebody, something given as a token of love, allegiance, or good will, or an act of kindness performed or granted out of good will. God definitely gives us preferential treatment. We are highly favored because the Lord is with us. His Presence alone, shows us His gracious kindness. One of the greatest honors one can give is to spend time with someone. Yet, the God of the universe is there for us. His favor surrounds the righteous like a shield and unlike the good will we may receive from man, His favor lasts for a lifetime. Hallelujah and praise the LORD! God's favor is something to shout about. Love Jackie

Teach us to realize the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom. Psalm 90:12 (NLT) The length of our days are a mere handbreadth before the LORD. Psalm 39:11 says, every man at his best state is a vapor. James 4:14 says, we are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Being mindful of the brevity of life, may we grow in wisdom and set the right priorities in life. Never let the big, important stuff be at the mercy of the small, insignificant things. In other words, keep the main thing, the main thing - loving our God and our neighbors. Love, Jackie

Lord, You have been our dwelling place in all generations. Before the mountains were brought forth, Or ever You had formed the earth and the world, Even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God. Psalm 90:1-2 (NKJ) The great "I AM" has always been, and will always be. Before He created the earth, He chose you to be His very own. Let us make Him our dwelling place, our home. He is our refuge for all generations. May we worship the LORD in all that we do. Love, Jackie

God is not a man, that He should lie, Nor a son of man, that He should repent. Has He said, and will He not do? Or has He spoken, and will He not make it good? Numbers 23:19 (NKJ) God does not lie. He does what he says He will do and He fulfills all His wonderful promises. The words He speak do not return to Him void, they accomplish the purpose for which He sent them (Isaiah 55:11). If you can't believe anyone else, believe God. He will make good what He has spoken to you. Love, Jackie

And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NLT) Keeping our eyes on Jesus helps us to run our race with endurance. Jesus is our champion. He is the author and perfecter of our faith. Because of the joy set before Him, He endured the cross. He held on while wicked people were doing evil things to him. Remember all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won’t become weary and give up (Hebrews 12:3). Love, Jackie