Manna for Your Morning

Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper . — Psalm 1:1-3 (NKJV) Don't get  caught up n the weeds of today. God speaks to your future. You shall be like a strong, mighty oak tree, planted in the God's garden, with roots that run deep into Him. Keep watering your seed with the Word of God and let Him take care of the weeds, which are the cares of this world. Then you will bring forth your fruit, beautiful blossoms, that release a pleasant fragrance. You will continually grow toward the Son and He will provide all you need to prosper and be in health just as your soul prospers (3 John 1:2).

“And now I will send the Holy Spirit, just as my Father promised. But stay here in the city until the Holy Spirit comes and fills you with power from heaven.” — Luke 24:49 (NLT) When we receive the Holy Spirit, we are endued with power from on high, from the throne room of heaven. In John 14:12, Jesus says, “Most assuredly, I say to you, he who believes in Me, the works that I do he will do also; and greater works than these he will do, because I go to My Father.” His power equips us to execute the will of God in our lives. We have this power to speak to mountains and have them move. Empowered from on high, we can declare our victory over this world, through our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 15:57). You are of God, little children, and have overcome them, because He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world (1 John 4:4). We are OVERCOMERS!

Come, let’s worship and bow down. Let’s kneel in front of the LORD, our maker, because he is our God and we are the people in his care, the flock that he leads. If only you would listen to him today!  — Psalm 95:6-7 (GW) The LORD takes care of us and no one can take us out of His hand. Jesus says, “My Father, who has given them to Me, is greater than all; and no one is able to snatch them out of My Father’s hand.” (John 10:29) Instead of wandering away from Him, let us continually come and worship the LORD! May we always be led by our Shepherd and listen to Him. Our God is greater than all!

The sheep that are My own hear and are listening to My voice; and I know them, and they follow Me. — John 10:27 (AMP) Jesus is the good shepherd and He calls His sheep by name. His sheep consistently listen for his voice. They recognize His voice and respond by following Him, wherever He leads. John 10:5 says, His sheep will by no means follow a stranger, but will flee from him, for they do not know the voice of strangers. Be careful which voice you listen to and who you follow.

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing. The words that I speak to you are spirit, and they are life. — John 6:63 (NKJV) When will we, the church, take a stand for Jesus? If not now , then when? Let us stop consulting our flesh about how we "feel" instead of just saying "Yes!" to the Lord. Yes, I will go to church. Yes, I will pay my tithe. Yes, I will tell others about Jesus. Yes, I will love my neighbor as I love myself. Yes I will forgive. For if you live according to the flesh you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God (Romans 8:13-14, NKJV). Amen!

All whom My Father gives (entrusts) to Me will come to Me; and the one who comes to Me I will most certainly not cast out [I will never, no never, reject one of them who comes to Me]. — John 6:37 (AMP) We may have been abandoned and rejected by a person, but Jesus says He will never reject those who come to Him. We can be assured of finding acceptance in the arms of Jesus. He wants us to come, just as we are. And as long as you keep coming to Him, He will keep holding on to you!

“But take heed to yourselves, lest your hearts be weighed down with carousing, drunkenness, and cares of this life, and that Day come on you unexpectedly. — Luke 21:34 (NKJV) Don't make your heart heavy with the cares of this life. We are to cast our worldly worries and concerns upon the Lord, for He cares for us (1 Peter 5:7). Jesus says, “Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly.” —Matthew 11:29-30, MSG

‘For in him we live and move and have our being.’ As some of your own poets have said, ‘We are his offspring.’ — Acts 17:28 (NIV) We originated in the heart of God. He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need (Acts 17:25, NLT). God wants to be in our every day life, in our homes, on our jobs and in our recreation. As our heavenly Father loves us and desires to fellowship with us, let our affections be toward Him. Only in Him will our true purpose in life be fulfilled. Let us live through Him and to His glory, in all that we do!

 So He said to them, “Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life.” — Luke 18:29-30 (NKJV) Whatever we considered as gains, let us now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus our Lord (Philippians 3:7-8, NIV). God has plans for our good, not just in the eternal world, but also here on this earth. Give all that your are and all that you have to Him and trust that you will receive much more in your lifetime, as you seek first His kingdom.

That was the true Light which gives light to every man coming into the world. — John 1:9 (NKJV) Jesus is true Light, who gives light to everyone. As many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, to those who believe in His name (John 1:12) For once you were darkness, but now you are light in the Lord; walk as children of Light [lead the lives of those native-born to the Light] (Ephesians 5:8, AMP). Let us embrace the Light and live in such a way, that we draw those in darkness to the true Light.

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!”  — John 1:29 (NKJV) “And I have seen and testified that this is the Son of God.”  — John 1:29 (NKJV) John the Baptist came to bear witness of Jesus Christ, but as he sat in prison he began to have doubts. In Matthew 11:2-3, he sent two of his disciples to ask Jesus, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” What happens in the life of a believer, that he or she comes to a point where they begin to question God? Be careful then, dear brothers and sisters. Make sure that your own hearts are not evil and unbelieving, turning you away from the living God (Hebrews 3:12, NLT). No matter what adversities we face, we must never allow the enemy to get us to doubt our Lord and Savior and His goodness. Jesus is the One! He is the answer to every question and the solution to every problem.

Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” — Luke 24:36 (NKJV) “Why are you troubled? And why do doubts arise in your hearts?” (Luke 24:38) Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you, if you have made the LORD, Most High, your refuge, and your dwelling place (Psalm 91:5-8). Jesus stands in your midst today and He speaks peace, to you. Abide in Him.

Powerful is your arm! Strong is your hand! Your right hand is lifted high in glorious strength. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of your throne. Unfailing love and truth walk before you as attendants. Happy are those who hear the joyful call to worship, for they will walk in the light of your presence, LORD.  — Psalm 89:13-15 (NLT) Our God is mighty and powerful. His hand is higher and stronger than every circumstance that comes your way. Hear the joyful call to worship and be happy because it is the sound of victory! We can rejoice all day long, knowing that we are more than conquerors, in Christ. May the glorious light of His Presence, shine upon you.

And when Jesus came to the place, He looked up and saw him, and said to him, “Zacchaeus, make haste and come down, for today I must stay at your house.” So he made haste and came down, and received Him joyfully. — Luke 19:5-6 (NKJV) Zacchaeus wanted to see who Jesus was, but because he was short he could not see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree to see Him, for He was going to pass that way (Luke 19:3-4). What kind of action are we taking to ensure that we can see the Lord? Let's not fall short when it comes to seeking God. Jesus does reside in our house, our physical bodies. Welcome Him into every room, with great joy and excitement. What a privilege to have His Spirit dwelling inside of us. Amen!

Yes, the LORD will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him, and shall make His footsteps our pathway.  — Psalm 85:12-13 (NKJV) Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning (James 1:17). We have all received from our heavenly Father that which is good and perfect. Let us walk in His footsteps and pay His goodness forward to others.

And shall God not avenge His own elect who cry out day and night to Him, though He bears long with them? I tell you that He will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless, when the Son of Man comes, will He really find faith on the earth?” — Luke 18:7-8 (NKJV) Jesus tells a parable about an unjust judge and a widow who kept coming to him, to show that men always ought to pray and not lose heart, (Luke 18:1). Jesus ends this parable by asking if He will find faith when He comes. I believe He asks this question because it takes faith to keep persistently praying and standing on the Word when everything we see with our eyes and hear with our ears says otherwise. Remember, this is the temporary stuff that will pass away. God's Word however, stands forever and God cannot lie. Sometimes, speedily doesn't come quick enough, on our time clock, but we have to exercise our faith and believe God. He will bring about justice for His people, who cry out to him day and night. Always pray and neve...

I will hear what God the LORD will speak, for He will speak peace to His people and to His saints; But let them not turn back to folly.  — Psalm 85:8 (NKJV) Listen with expectancy for the voice of the LORD and what He will speak to you regarding your situation. Do not let the enemy steal your peace with his lies. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. The LORD will keep those whose mind is stayed on Him, in perfect peace, because he trusts in God (Isaiah 26:3).

Acknowledge the God of your father, and serve him with wholehearted devotion and with a willing mind, for the LORD searches every heart and understands every desire and every thought. — 1 Chronicles 28:9 (NIV) In the parable of the lost son, the older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in to the celebration of the return of the prodigal son (Luke 15:28-30). Even though the older son stayed with his father and served him, while the younger son did his own thing, his heart was not with him. Likewise, we can be in church every week and still have a heart that is far from the heart of God. May we examine our hearts and make sure the affections of our hearts are in perfect alignment with the things that please our heavenly Father. Amen.

 “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was still a great way off, his father saw him and had compassion, and ran and fell on his neck and kissed him. — Luke 15:20 (NKJV) After the lost son, wasted his wealth in wild living, he began to be in want. Eventually, he came to himself, and decided to return home (Luke 15:17-18). While he was still a long way off, his father saw him and had compassion. No matter how far you are away from God today, He sees you and has compassion. You are still His son or daughter and He longs to hold you in His arms. Return to who you really are, a child of God. Come home!

And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. — Luke 12:29 (NIV) “What I’m trying to do here is get you to relax, not be so preoccupied with getting so you can respond to God’s giving ” (Luke 12:29, MSG). Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom” (Luke 12:31-32, NLT). And His Kingdom is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit (Romans 14:17, NLT).

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us. — Hebrews 12:1 (NLT) Endure hardship as a good soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3). Indeed we count them blessed who endure (James 5:11). Someone is always watching, your children, co-workers, etc. We don't know who may be encouraged as they see our faith and perseverance. De-clutter your life and run the race that lies before you. Never give up!

I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD; I will make mention of Your righteousness, of Yours only.  — Psalm 71:16 (NKJV) The Lord stands with you and strengthens you. When your strength fails, draw from His limitless supply. Go in the strength of the Lord, wherever God calls, your home, the work place, or market place, etc,  and be led by His Spirit. Those who wait upon God get fresh strength. They spread their wings and soar like eagles, they run and don’t get tired, they walk and don’t lag behind (Isaiah 40:31, MSG). Blessed is the person whose strength is in the LORD (Psalm 84:5). Let God be the strength of your heart and your portion forever (Psalm 73:26).

For the Lord God is a Sun and Shield; the Lord bestows [present] grace and favor and [future] glory (honor, splendor, and heavenly bliss)! No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly. — Psalm 84:11 (AMP) The LORD is a Sun and He makes His face shine upon you (Numbers 6:25). He is a shield to all who trust in Him (2 Samuel 22:31). He will protect you from the fiery arrows of the enemy. O Lord of hosts, blessed is the man who trusts in You! (Psalm 84:12, NIV)

 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.  — 2 Chronicles 16:9 (NKJV) God is always looking for people who are fully committed to Him. He doesn't want lukewarm, middle of the road believers. Revelation 3:16 says, “because you are lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will vomit you out of My mouth (Revelation 3:15-16). Let us be on fire for the LORD and passionate about fulfilling His purpose in our lives. Amen!

And she had a sister called Mary, who also sat at Jesus’ feet and heard His word. — Luke 10:39 But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her. — Luke 10:42 (NKJV) While Mary chose to hang out with Jesus, Martha was distracted with much serving (Luke 10:40). Most of us can relate to Mary or Martha. However, at any given moment we can ignore the distractions and CHOOSE to sit at Jesus feet, and meditate on the Word. Instead of being like Martha, worried and troubled about many things, we can cast all our cares on the Lord (Psalm 55:22). We can choose not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together with other believers (Hebrews 10:25). You choose!

And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing. — Luke 9:10-11 (NKJV) First, we follow Jesus. He still receives the multitudes. No matter what you have done, Jesus receives you too! He never turns anyone away. His arms are always wide open to accept all who come to Him. Never listen to any voice that says something contrary. Jesus loves you and He cares. And He still heals those who are in need of healing. Praise the Lord!

Now a woman, having a flow of blood for twelve years, who had spent all her livelihood on physicians and could not be healed by any, came from behind and touched the border of His garment. And immediately her flow of blood stopped. — Luke 8:43-44 (NKJV) We can spend years, listening to man and looking for our healing by natural means. We can drain all of our resources: money, time, and energy, with no result, as we look to man. Or we can get what we need by pressing in to Jesus, and drawing from the pool of His supernatural power. Then we will receive our healing, wholeness and the answers and solutions we seek. Amen!

Jesus answered and said to them, “Go and tell John the things you have seen and heard: that the blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, the poor have the gospel preached to them. And blessed is he who is not offended because of Me.” — Luke 7:22-23 (NKJV) John sent two of his disciples to Jesus, saying, “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (Luke 7:10). Let there be NO doubt, Jesus is the One! He is the only One who shed His blood and gave His life, to set us free from sin, death and hell. This Jesus was sent to heal the brokenhearted, and to proclaim liberty to the captives (Isaiah 61:1-2). Therefore, if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed (John 8:36)! Hallelujah!

Being united with God is my highest good. I have made the Almighty LORD my refuge so that I may report everything that he has done.  — Psalm 73:28 (GW) It is good for us to draw near to God and stay connected to Him. Abide in the very presence of God and be led by His Holy Spirit. He is our safe place, our refuge, our shelter when the storms of life come. Tell everyone about the wonderful works He has done!

For he and all who were with him were astonished at the catch of fish which they had taken; and so also were James and John, the sons of Zebedee, who were partners with Simon. And Jesus said to Simon, “Do not be afraid. From now on you will catch men.” So when they had brought their boats to land, they forsook all and followed Him. — Luke 5:9-11 (NKJV) One characteristic of a disciple of Jesus Christ is that they forsake all. In Philippians 3:8 (GW), the Apostle Paul says, “I consider everything else worthless because I’m much better off knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. It’s because of him that I think of everything as worthless. I threw it all away in order to gain Christ” Another trait of the early disciples is that they followed Jesus. They did not make any excuses. Jesus said,  “Follow Me” and they simply followed Him. When we forsake all and follow Him, astonishing things happen in our midst!

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God; — Ephesians 6:17 (NKJV) When Jesus was in the wilderness being tempted by the devil for forty days, His only response was to speak the Word of God. Three times He responded to the devil by speaking the Word (Luke 4:1-8). For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). A sword never taken out of its cover is useless. Our tongues hold the power of death and life (Proverbs 18:21), when we speak the Word we release that power into our atmosphere. In the midst of your trials and temptations, continually speak the Word and the devil will flee!