Manna for Your Morning

We don’t give people any opportunity to find fault with how we serve. Instead, our lives demonstrate that we are God’s servants. We have endured many things: suffering, distress, anxiety, beatings, imprisonments, riots, hard work, sleepless nights, and lack of food. People can see our purity, knowledge, patience, kindness, the Holy Spirit’s presence in our lives, our sincere love, — 2 Corinthians 6:3-6 (GW) Like the Apostle Paul, we must endure some things in this life, but let us also maintain a good witness before all. Hebrews 12:1 says we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Let our lives reflect the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. May sincere love and genuine kindness be the source of everything we do and every word that comes out of our mouths. We are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), representing His Kingdom on the earth. Let's serve with distinction!

As God’s fellow workers we urge you not to receive God’s grace in vain. — 2 Corinthians 6:1 (NIV) The word vain means to produce no result or to have no meaning. Let us not take the goodness of God for granted. In Him, we live and move and have our being (Acts 17:28). Pastor Matt Pollock has described grace as having everything you need, when you need it. God’s provision is not for us to just sit back and grow spiritually fat. His grace has a higher purpose. He equips us that we might fulfill the call of God in our lives. Having received God’s grace, let us engage in an active pursuit of completing the mission we have received from God and focus on fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Amen!

As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16b (NKJV) I am so thankful that our God dwells IN us and walks among us. When tragedy strikes, He is there. God gives us the strength and courage to open our eyes and face another day. When you receive that bad report from the doctor’s office, He is there. When your spouse walks out on you, God is in you, never to abandon you. When your loved one passes, God is in your midst. Whether you are dealing with depression, alcoholism, or drug addiction, God is there with the Power to break the chains that imprison us. He is our strength. Never underestimate the POWER of His PRESENCE. It breaks the yokes and raises the dead. In His Presence, there is power to heal and sins are forgiven. There is nothing too hard for Him (Jeremiah 32:17). Mountains melt like wax at the presence of the LORD, (Psalm 97:5). No flesh should glory in His presence (1 Corinthians 1:29).

For God says, “At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you.” Indeed, the “right time” is now. Today is the day of salvation. — 2 Corinthians 6:2 (NLT) Now is the time of God’s favor (2 Corinthians 6:2, NIV). Regardless of what has happened in the past, now is just the right time for you to seek God’s help. He hears you now! Whenever you need Him, He is always there. Now is the day of salvation. NOW is the time! Let’s share the Good News with others, who also need God’s help.

...when we came to Macedonia, our bodies had no rest, but we were troubled on every side. Outside were conflicts, inside were fears. Nevertheless God, who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus, — 2 Corinthians 7:5-6 (NKJV) If you are troubled on every side today, know that in spite of your circumstances, you have the God of all comfort standing by your side. He comforts us in all our tribulation (2 Corinthians 1:4). His perfect love casts out fear, (1 John 4:18). The God of peace will speak peace to any conflict that has been stirred up against you. He shall bring forth your righteousness as the light, and your justice as the noonday (Psalm 37:6).

We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure. This makes it clear that our great power is from God, not from ourselves. — 2 Corinthians 4:7 (NLT) Never believe the lies of the enemy when he says, you are insignificant and don’t matter to God. As a child of God, you have a great and precious treasure inside: Jesus! He chose to live in you. God wants to use you on this earth, to do great things for His kingdom. May we continually submit to His wonder-working power which is at work in us.

And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For you are the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” — 2 Corinthians 6:16 (NKJV) Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? (1 Corinthians 3:16) As we continually hold in the forefront of our minds that God dwells in us and our bodies are His temple, I think we will be less likely to abuse our bodies with unhealthy or unholy habits. Therefore “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” “I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty.” (2 Corinthians 6:17-18) As offspring of Almighty God, our speech and behavior should resemble His and not the world. Since we have the promise of His constant Presence, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit,

O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open. — 2 Corinthians 6:11-13 God’s heart is wide open to us. He has freely spoken to us. God has opened the floodgates of heaven, to His abundant blessings, and prosperity, but we stand on the other side of the gate pushing against it, preventing it from opening, because we are resisting God and what He wants to do in our lives. Release your concerns. Abandon yourself to Abba Father. Surrender all to Him and let the floodgates open. Submit to His will and His Holy Spirit within. Always respond to God with your heart wide open.

And they have overcome (conquered) him by means of the blood of the Lamb and by the utterance of their testimony, for they did not love and cling to life even when faced with death... — Revelation 12:11 (AMP) We overcome the devil, who deceives the whole world (Revelation 12:9), by the precious blood of Jesus and by the words we utter out of our mouths. Our tongues have the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). Choose to speak words of life. Tell others about the goodness of God and what He has done in your life. We conquer the lies and deception of Satan as we speak truth: the Word of God. In Deuteronomy 6:7, God’s people were instructed to talk about the Word when they sit in their homes, when they walk by the way, when they lie down and when they rise up. We overcome the works of our enemy by continually speaking God’s Word and sharing our testimonies.

Then last of all He was seen by me also, as by one born out of due time. — 1 Corinthians 15:8 (NKJV) There is an appointed time for everything. And there is a time for every event under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1, NAS). The Apostle Paul, persecuted the church of God, until the appointed time: that day on the road to Damascus, when the Lord opened his eyes to see the light of the truth (Acts 9). In due time, Sarah gave birth to the child of promise. What might you give birth to, in due time?  Do not grow weary in doing well. Passionately pursue your dreams, and in due time you will see the fruit of your labor.

But if you refuse to serve the LORD, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the LORD.” — Joshua 24:15 (NLT) Every day we make all kinds of choices: what to wear?, what to eat?, etc. But the most important choice we make daily is whether to walk with God, or go along with the ways of the world. Choose wisely. You cannot drink from the cup of the Lord and from the cup of demons, too. You cannot eat at the Lord’s table and at the table of demons, too (1 Corinthians 10:21). Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him (1 John 2:15). Choose today whom you will serve.

 Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being. — 1 Corinthians 10:24 (NKJV) Don’t buy into the hype of the iPhone, iPad, iPod and other iProducts. It’s not all about you. The “I” should  not  be first. You will experience true JOY in life when you put J esus first, O thers (spouse, children, neighbor, enemy) second, and then Y ourself. Instead of being a self-seeker, looking out for your own interests, be a God-seeker, seeking to do His will and no good thing will He withhold (Psalm 84:11).

For God shows no partiality [undue favor or unfairness; with Him one man is not different from another]. — Romans 2:11 (AMP) God does not show favoritism and there is no partiality with Him. He loves each and every one of us. And there is nothing on this earth or in heaven that can separate us from His love. Psalm 139:17 (NLT) declares, “How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered!” May we be as consumed with thoughts about God and share His unconditional love with everyone He brings our way.

For whoever would come near to God must [necessarily] believe that God exists and that He is the rewarder of those who earnestly and diligently seek Him [out]. — Hebrews 11:6b  (AMP) No matter what happens in this life, we must believe that God is the REWARDER of those who sincerely seek Him. God, richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment (1 Timothy 6:17, NIV). The LORD has plans for you that are good and not for disaster, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, thoughts of peace toward you and not evil (Jeremiah 29:11). And He is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, (Ephesians 3:20). Diligently seek Him out, knowing that He cares and He will faithfully respond to those who seek Him.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. — Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV) Believing that God exists is the first step in the right direction. He is the great I AM. He is in your past, present and future. And He will always be all that you ever need: Savior, Healer, Deliverer, Helper, Counselor, Friend, Comforter, Guide, Protector, etc. We must also believe that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. His eyes search the whole earth looking for those whose hearts are loyal (fully committed) to Him, that He might show Himself strong on their behalf (2 Chronicles 16:9). Diligent implies consistent, rigorous devotion and attention. Diligently, seek the LORD, not just in bad times or when its convenient, or when you “feel” like it.

For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope. — Romans 15:4 (NKJV) The Scriptures, even though inscribed long ago, were written for us. They were written to give us hope and encouragement. In the Word, we can see the faithfulness of God. We see that even though God’s people endured and persevered through all kinds of difficult situations, God faithfully brought them through and gave them double for their troubles, many times over. Let us heed the words of Joshua 1:8 and never let the Book depart from our mouths, and consistently meditate in it day and night, so that we may observe to do according to all that is written in it. Then we will make our way prosperous, and then we will have good success and a living hope.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them: — Romans 12:6a (NKJV) We all have a variety of gifts, given to us by God. For a gift to be of benefit to anyone, it must be accepted, opened and put to use. If we are to enjoy our gifts and talents we have to unwrap them, and explore how we may use them to be a blessing. Just as a muscle that is not used begins to waste away over time, a gift that is not used as God purposed, is a waste. Be sure to use your gifts and talents. You don’t have to wait until January 1st and make it a new years'  resolution. Don’t let the music die inside of you. Sing your song now!

rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; — Romans 12:12 (NKJV) Let us rejoice in hopeful expectation to see the Lord work in our lives and hearts. As long as our hope is anchored in the Lord Jesus Christ, we will not be disappointed. We can be patient in all kinds of troubles and tribulations, knowing that Jesus has given us the victory. We are more than conquerors! Continue steadfastly in prayer because our help comes from the LORD. Amen!

And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. — Romans 12:1-2 (NLT) We will experience lasting transformation when we truly worship God by surrendering all of our members to Him and continually renew our minds with His Word.

“God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”  — James 4:6 (NKJV) Humility is the acknowledgement that anything we accomplish in this life is only by the grace of God. Humility recognizes that everything we have belongs to Him. God empowered us with the strength, wisdom and all that we needed to come this far. Romans 12:3 (AMP) says, [not to have an exaggerated opinion of your own importance]. So, don’t get puffed up with pride. Instead, humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, (1 Peter 5:6, NKJV). Be thankful for all of your successful endeavors and continue to depend on and be devoted to God, with all your heart.

For I am persuaded beyond doubt (am sure) that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities, nor things impending and threatening nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. — Romans 8:38-39 (AMP) Be persuaded beyond doubt that nothing on this earth can drive a wedge between you and the love God has for you. If anything is threatening you and trying to induce fear, stay rooted and grounded in His perfect love which casts out all fear. As you trust in and rely on the stability of God’s love, you will find the inner strength and confidence to mount up with wings like an eagle and soar toward all that God has for you, His wonderful purpose and plan.

What then shall we say to [all] this? If God is for us, who [can be] against us? [Who can be our foe, if God is on our side?] — Romans 8:31 (AMP) With God on our side, we cannot lose. No weapon that is formed against us will prosper (Isaiah 54:17). The Spirit Himself makes intercession for us (Romans 8:26). Our Advocate, Christ is at the right hand of God, He also makes intercession for us (Romans 8:34). We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us (Romans 8:37). Let us give thanks to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). Amen!

Moreover [let us also be full of joy now!] let us exult and triumph in our troubles and rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that pressure and affliction and hardship produce patient and unswerving endurance. And endurance (fortitude) develops maturity of character (approved faith and tried integrity). And character [of this sort] produces [the habit of] joyful and confident hope of eternal salvation. — Romans 5:3-4 (AMP) As we endure the challenges of this life, we can be sure that our faith is being strengthened, patience is produced and our character is being develop and growing in maturity. And this kind of character creates a joyful and confident hope within us. This hope never disappoints or deludes because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts. (Romans 5:5) Because God loves us and is working all things together for good, we will not be disappointed!

I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. — Galatians 2:20 (NKJV) Let us live a lifestyle of faith. When the storms cloud our vision, we must continue to walk by faith. Without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him (Hebrews 11:6). According to Pastor Matthew Pollock, FAITH is... FOLLOWING without knowing where... WAITING without knowing when... BELIEVING without knowing how... TRUSTING without knowing why...

“Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; You are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you. For I am the LORD your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior;” — Isaiah 43:1-3 (NKJV) Let us be confident that our God stands by our side and He will see us through the storms. At times, it may seem that we are in over our heads, but He will not allow us to drown or be burned. If we continue to put one foot in front of the other, we will eventually pass through the difficult waters and through the flames of adversity. Rely on God to give you the strength and He will bring you through!

Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance? — Romans 2:4 (NIV) Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? (Romans 2:4a, NLT) Thank God for His patience and tolerance, but let us never take the kindness of God for granted. His kindness should lead us to repentance. It should cause us to turn around from going our own way and follow God and His ways. In order for situations in our lives to change, we must change. We have to become more and more like our heavenly Father. It is the acceptance, forgiveness and love of God that will draw others and cause them to work with us and not against us.

“I will not give sleep to my eyes or slumber to my eyelids, until I find a place for the LORD, a dwelling place for the Mighty One of Jacob.” — Psalm 132:4-5 (NKJV) We make room in our lives for our favorite sports, T.V. shows, Starbuck runs, workouts, etc. Be sure to find a place for the LORD in your life. Make a home for Him in the chambers of your heart, where He will have preeminence, first place. And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength (Mark 12:30). Let us examine ourselves and see what or who has our hearts?

Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. — Lamentations 3:22-23 (NIV) The LORD awakens us morning by morning, and covers us with new compassions. He packs each new day full with bright promises and gives us a fresh start. It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to declare His lovingkindness in the morning (Psalm 92:1-2). Psalm 30:5 says, joy comes in the morning. Let us awaken the dawn and fix our eyes on Jesus, the Bright and Morning Star (Revelation 22:16). May your heart be filled with hope and expectation as you rise to face each new day.

And the Angel of the LORD appeared to him, and said to him, “The LORD is with you, you mighty man of valor!” Gideon said to Him, “O my lord, if the LORD is with us, why then has all this happened to us?” — Judges 6:12-13a (NKJV) Have you ever felt like Gideon and wondered, if God is with you, why is all this “stuff” happening to you? You can be certain that God is with you, because He said, He would never leave you or forsake you and our God is faithful. Let us remember that our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So fix your eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal (2 Corinthians 4:17-18, NIV). Surely God will be with you and you shall defeat your enemies (Judges 6:16).

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose. — Romans 8:28 (NKJV) Let us refuse all doubt and live in what we know: ...we know that an idol is nothing in the world, and that there is no other God but one (1 Corinthians 8:4). Now we know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is a worshiper of God and does His will, He hears him (John 9:31). And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him (1 John 5:15). Throughout the good, the bad and the ugly, continue to lift up your petitions to God, knowing that He hears you and that He is working all things together for GOOD. Amen!