Manna for Your Morning

Open your mouth and taste, open your eyes and see— how good God is. Blessed are you who run to him. — Psalm 34:8 (MSG) God is good, all the time! Run to Him in every situation. The Word says to “run” versus “walk”, that means we are to have a sense of urgency. Don't get blown away from God by the winds of adversity. Instead, RUN to Him. When fears and doubts arise open your eyes and see the great goodness of our heavenly Father. The name of the LORD is a strong fortress; the godly run to him and are safe (Proverbs 18:10 NLT).

So we’re not giving up. How could we! Even though on the outside it often looks like things are falling apart on us, on the inside, where God is making new life, not a day goes by without his unfolding grace. — 2 Corinthians 4:16 (MSG) No matter what difficulties you may be facing, do not lose heart. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, is working for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory (2 Corinthians 4:17, NKJV). His grace unfolds in our lives each and every day. Yesterday’s shortcomings are covered by His amazing grace. Each day is new beginning and fresh start as the LORD showers us with new mercies and compassions. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most. (Hebrews 4:16 NLT)

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) Why jars of clay? Like jars of clay we are unique. We come in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes and we each have a unique God-given purpose to fulfill. However, the focus should not be on the container. As fragile clay jars, we may get cracked and broken, but the value comes from the treasure that is inside of us. The power of God working within us through His Holy Spirit to bring about His wonderful plan for our lives. Like clay we are to allow ourselves, our hearts and our lives to be shaped by the Master Potter. But now, O LORD, You are our Father; We are the clay, and You our potter; And all we are the work of Your hand. (Isaiah 64:8)

But friends, you’re not in the dark, so how could you be taken off guard by any of this? You’re sons of Light, daughters of Day. We live under wide open skies and know where we stand. So let’s not sleepwalk through life like those others. Let’s keep our eyes open and be smart. People sleep at night and get drunk at night. But not us! Since we’re creatures of Day, let’s act like it. Walk out into the daylight sober, dressed up in faith, love, and the hope of salvation. —1 Thessalonians 5:4-8 (MSG) Let’s not sleepwalk through life. Be awake, and alert to the schemes of the enemy. Take your stand on the strong foundation and walk in love and faith. When we submit to God and His Word, we are able to resist the devil and he will flee.

All those prayers are coming together now so you will do this well, fearless in your struggle, keeping a firm grip on your faith and on yourself. After all, this is a fight we’re in. There are some, you know, who by relaxing their grip and thinking anything goes have made a thorough mess of their faith. — 1 Timothy 1:18-19 (MSG) Remember, we are engaged in a war. We are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil.Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. (Ephesians 6:12-13, NLT). Fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the faith. (2 Timothy 4:7)

Then Jesus made a circuit of all the towns and villages. He taught in their meeting places, reported kingdom news, and healed their diseased bodies, healed their bruised and hurt lives. When he looked out over the crowds, his heart broke. So confused and aimless they were, like sheep with no shepherd. — Matthew 9:35-36 (MSG) Jesus came that we may have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10b, NIV). If we are limping through life, bruised and hurt, Jesus, the good Shepherd, wants to care for us.  He does not leave us on our own. If we are wandering through life aimlessly, and without purpose, Jesus shows us the way to a full, purpose-driven life. His light clears up any confusion and allows us to clearly see the way we need to take. Follow the good Shepherd.

Then a leper appeared and went to his knees before Jesus, praying, “Master, if you want to, you can heal my body.” Jesus reached out and touched him, saying, “I want to. Be clean.” Then and there, all signs of the leprosy were gone. — Matthew 8:2-3 (MSG) Jesus wants to heal you and make you whole, here and now. Humble yourself under His mighty hand and call upon Jesus, the great Physician. His hand is always reaching out to you. Fall on your knees in His presence and receive all He has for you. It's His desire for you to live the more abundant life, in perfect peace and full of joy. No matter how circumstances appear, continue to stand on the Word of God. Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28 NLT). Whatever your burden is today, sickness or otherwise, give it to Him.

The whole point of what we’re urging is simply love—love uncontaminated by self-interest and counterfeit faith, a life open to God. — 1 Timothy 1:5 (MSG) If we want to ensure our love is uncontaminated we need to live our lives open to God. God is love. As we stay open to Him, He transforms us from the inside (our hearts) to the outside. As we stay open to God and the work His Holy Spirit is doing in us, His love will permeate every fiber of our being. As we fully embrace God's love, we can let go of self-interest, unforgiveness, bitterness, etc. Let us knock down any barriers we have erected and live open to God. This is the optimal position from which to love, love the LORD and love others, with a plain and simple love and no hidden agendas.

Watch out! Remember the three years I was with you—my constant watch and care over you night and day, and my many tears for you. — Acts 20:31 (NLT) Just as the Apostle Paul watched over the early church, our heavenly Father constantly cares for His people. He watches over us as we sleep and He is there to give us new compassions and mercies, every morning. His thoughts toward us cannot be recounted to Him in order; If I would declare and speak of them, they are more than can be numbered. (Psalm 40:5b, NKJV). He goes before you and follows you. He places His hand of blessing on your head. (Psalm 139:5, NLT). Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you (1 Peter 5:7, NLT).

May the Master take you by the hand and lead you along the path of God’s love and Christ’s endurance. — 2 Thessalonians 3:5 (MSG) Let us walk hand in hand with the Father as He leads us along on the path of His love. May all we do and every word we speak reflect the love of God. His great love is unconditional and it never fails. Just as God first loved us, let us be the initiator of love in our relationships with others. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. (1 Corinthians 13:7, NLT). God’s love is expressed in action. Duplicate His love. Christ endured the cross, for the joy that was set before Him. (Hebrews 12:2). May we endure temporary adversities and afflictions, knowing that God has a plan for us that is good, to give us a glorious future and a living hope. For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all (2 Corinthians 4:17 NIV).

  Get along among yourselves, each of you doing your part. Our counsel is that you warn the freeloaders to get a move on. Gently encourage the stragglers, and reach out for the exhausted, pulling them to their feet. Be patient with each person, attentive to individual needs. And be careful that when you get on each other’s nerves you don’t snap at each other. Look for the best in each other, and always do your best to bring it out. — 1 Thessalonians 5:13-15 (MSG) We are similar to priceless gems, diamonds in the rough. We all have the potential to shine, with the love and light of the LORD. Diamonds are formed under high temperature and pressure conditions beneath the earth’s surface. They undergo a refining process (removal of impurities) before they sparkle and shine. God can use the fiery trials and high pressure conditions we experience in life, to remove what is not of Him from our lives and draw our hearts closer to Him. We too are in a refining process. When we respond...

“In a word, what I’m saying is, Grow up. You’re kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God-created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.” — Matthew 5:48 (MSG) Your true identity is the one your Creator gave you when He knit you together in the womb of your mother, not the one the world tries to give you. Our God-created identity is one of generosity and grace. God created us in His image. We are to identify with His loving and forgiving nature. Let us reflect our heavenly Father’s character. Our identity is one of strength and confidence. He told man to take dominion over the earth. As subjects in His kingdom, we can live victorious lives: free, and full of peace and joy. We are overcomers and more than conquerors!

“You’re blessed when you get your inside world—your mind and heart—put right. Then you can see God in the outside world. — Matthew 5:8 (MSG) A good person out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good things. (Matthew 12:35a). When we treasure God’s Word in our hearts, our minds will dwell on the right things and our actions and words will line up with God’s Word and His will. Then we are able to see clearly what He is doing and desires to do in our outside world.

Passing along the beach of Lake Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew net-fishing. Fishing was their regular work. Jesus said to them, “Come with me. I’ll make a new kind of fisherman out of you. I’ll show you how to catch men and women instead of perch and bass.” They didn’t ask questions. They dropped their nets and followed. — Mark 1:16-18 (MSG) There comes a point in life when we have to stop asking questions and just follow Jesus, no matter what. Let us stop asking, “Why is all this stuff happening to me?” or “How long must I endure this situation?” Just know that He will get us through everything that comes our way. In addition, may we drop the concerns of all our earthly possessions which we have gathered together in our nets, and follow, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. Jesus said, My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. (John 10:27, NKJV)

“And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He was moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.”  — Matthew‬ ‭14:14‬ ‭(NKJV‬) “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews‬ ‭13:8‬ ‭NKJV‬‬). He is still moved with compassion. It is in the heart of Jesus to be compassionate. While the disciples wanted to send the crowd away, Jesus wanted to take care of their needs. He is the great Physician who heals the sick. He feeds the hungry and clothes the naked. He is the good Shepherd who watches over the sheep and guides them along the path of life. He gives light to those who dwell in darkness. To the prisoners of life circumstances, He provides liberty. He lifts up the heads of those bowed down and fills our minds with peace and joy.

And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You. — Psalm 9:10 (NKJV) The name of the LORD is the only name you need to know. Our help is in the name of the LORD, Who made heaven and earth (Psalm 124:8). Know that the LORD is the Most High over all the earth. His name is above all other names. His name carries more power than any sickness or disease. When we call on the name of the LORD He will answer. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God. (Psalm 20:7)

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. — Joshua 1:8 (NLT) To meditate on God’s Word means to give it careful, and deep thought. It involves a focus of one’s mind, for a period of time. My husband is the skilled cook in our home and there is a big difference in the flavor of the meat when he lets it soak in the marinade overnight versus a few minutes. Likewise, as we spend time in God’s Word (the marinade), it changes the flavor of our hearts and minds and in turn influences our actions. We can only enjoy the depth and richness of His Word as we spend time turning it over in our minds. We change the way we think by renewing our minds with the Word of God. Take time to meditate on the Word, treasure it in your heart and enjoy success in all that you do.

…by giving himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God’s side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. You don’t walk away from a gift like that! You stay grounded and steady in that bond of trust, constantly tuned in to the Message, careful not to be distracted or diverted. — Colossians 1:22-23 (MSG) If you ever feel like your life is falling apart, know that in Christ, our lives come together perfectly. Just as we make sure we are on the right channel to view our favorite television show, let us stay tuned in to what our mighty God is doing in our midst. He is a great big God 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, NKJV).

God rescued us from dead-end alleys and dark dungeons. He’s set us up in the kingdom of the Son he loves so much, the Son who got us out of the pit we were in, got rid of the sins we were doomed to keep repeating. — Colossians 1:13-14 (MSG) God redeemed our lives from the pit. He rescued us from dead-ends that led to nowhere, and put us on the path of life. He brought us into the Kingdom of the Son. His kingdom is about living an abundant life of goodness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. We were once trapped in dark dungeons and now God has placed us in wide open, spacious places, where we can dwell in His light. Praise the Lord!

“Be still, and know that I am God!I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” — Psalm 46:10 (NLT) There is immeasurable value in knowing God our heavenly Father, Jesus Christ, and His Holy Spirit at work in us. Yes, everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have discarded everything else, counting it all as garbage, so that I could gain Christ and become one with him (Philippians 3:8-9a, NLT). The Amplified Bible says, it is a priceless privilege and supreme advantage to know Christ Jesus my Lord. (Philippians 3:8) Our lives do not have to be so complicated. When we still our minds from racing through “what if” scenarios and focus on drawing near to our God, He will make all things quite clear. Let us focus on His loving nature, His mighty power and infinite wisdom to bring us through life’s challenges, and He will provide exactly what we need, when we need it.

God, investigate my life; get all the facts firsthand. I’m an open book to you; even from a distance, you know what I’m thinking. You know when I leave and when I get back; I’m never out of your sight. You know everything I’m going to say before I start the first sentence. — Psalm 139:1-4 (MSG) God knows everything about us, every thought and every secret and yet, He still loves us. If our holy and righteous God loves us, why do we have difficulty loving ourselves? While we should always strive to grow and be better people, we still need to love and accept ourselves for who we are today, and forgive ourselves for past mistakes. The 2nd most important commandment is to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. If you are having difficulty loving your neighbor, make sure you love the person in the mirror, inside and out. If you don't like what you see, lay on God's altar and let His Spirit work in you, a new creation.

In light of all this… I want you to get out there and walk—better yet, run!—on the road God called you to travel. I don’t want any of you sitting around on your hands. I don’t want anyone strolling off, down some path that goes nowhere. — Ephesians 4:1 (MSG) The moment a train is derailed, it is headed for destruction. It has to progress steadily, on the tracks, and allow the tracks to guide it, in order to reach the intended destination. Similarly, once we step off the track of what God has for us, we are headed for a wreck. When we stay in continual communion with the LORD, He will be our guide and support, enabling us to run strong and long, with purpose and determination. Then we will see promises fulfilled and dreams materialized. As we stay on track with God, we will be sure to reach our desired destination. Good wants the best for you, don’t settle for less.

But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water. Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” — Mark 4:37-38 (NLT) Have you ever wondered if God cares? Well, you can be 100% confident that He does care about you. God loves you with a relentless love. He loved us before we loved Him or even acknowledged that He exists. When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Silence! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm (Mark 4:39 NLT). When you have one of those days where it seems you are drowning in a sea of adverse circumstances, remember Who you are in the boat with. When you are in the presence of Jesus, you can experience great calm and comfort in the midst of a chaotic environment. Jesus was able to sleep because He trusted the Father. May we never focus on the stor...

Though I am the least deserving of all God’s people, he graciously gave me the privilege of telling the Gentiles about the endless treasures available to them in Christ. — Ephesians 3:8 (NLT) In Christ we have unsearchable riches and endless treasures available to us. Endless! They never stop. We receive a continuous flow of His amazing love. He gives us a deep, abiding peace that is available in any and every situation. We have everlasting joy. His living Word is a great treasure, that stands forever. In Christ lie hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. (Colossians 2:3). If we lack wisdom, we can ask of God and He gives to all liberally. (James 1:5) Never forget the good things he does for us. He forgives all our sins and heals all our diseases. He redeems us from death and crowns us with love and tender mercies. He fills our lives with good things. (Psalm 103:2-5)

But now you have been united with Christ Jesus. Once you were far away from God, but now you have been brought near to him through the blood of Christ. — Ephesians 2:13 (NLT) In those days you were living apart from Christ. You were excluded from citizenship among the people of Israel, and you did not know the covenant promises God had made to them. You lived in this world without God and without hope (Ephesians 2:12). Life apart from Christ is a life with no hope. So now you Gentiles are no longer strangers and foreigners. You are citizens along with all of God’s holy people. You are members of God’s family (Ephesians 2:19). As members of God’s family we have been given access to enjoy a close intimate relationship with our heavenly Father. We are not visitors. We don’t wear welcome out. Our heavenly Father wants us close to Him at all times. So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need i...

It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone. — Ephesians 1:11-12 (MSG) In the Lord we live and move and have our being, (Acts 17:28, NKJV). In Him, a glorious destiny awaits each one of us. Be true to the call of God on your life. It is when we love God and respond to the call of His plan and purpose, that He works all things together for the good. (Romans 8:28). In Christ, we thrive and are triumphant. I know the plans that I have for you, declares the LORD. They are plans for peace and not disaster, plans to give you a future filled with hope. ( Jeremiah 29:11, GW )

Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, “It is the Lord!” Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the Lord, he put on his outer garment (for he had removed it), and plunged into the sea. — John 21:7 (NKJV) Peter had a sense of urgency to return to the Lord, after denying Him three times. When you miss the mark, don’t let the enemy create a distance between you and the Lord. Instead, draw near to God with a sincere heart. Our God is faithful to forgive and the flow of His love toward us never stops. Surrender all, and plunge into the living waters, that draw you closer to the Lord. He will show you the path of life; In His presence is fullness of joy; At His right hand are pleasures forevermore. (Psalm 16:11, NKJV).

I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have [perfect] peace. In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world.” [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding.] — John 16:33 (AMP) Dear friends, don’t be surprised at the fiery trials you are going through, as if something strange were happening to you (1 Peter 4:12, NLT). Be still and know that He is God. Nothing is too difficult for Him. He has already made a way for you.

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) Faith is to have complete trust or confidence in someone or something. We all have faith, Romans 12:3 says, God has dealt to each one a measure of faith. The key is where, what or who we invest our measure of faith in. Some have faith in their bank account or jobs, to answer all their problems. Others put faith in other people, but it is better trust in the Lord, than man. He is the only One who will always be there for you, never will He abandon you. Jesus is the answer to every problem or challenge before you. To get the highest and most beneficial rate of return on our faith we are to deposit it in the Son of God. By faith in Christ we conquer sin, sickness and disease. By faith in Jesus, we can have and enjoy the rich and satisfying life, He came to giv...

I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am. — Philippians 4:11-13 (MSG) I have worked harder, been put in prison more often, been whipped times without number, and faced death again and again. Five different times the Jewish leaders gave me thirty-nine lashes. Three times I was beaten with rods. Once I was stoned. Three times I was shipwrecked. Once I spent a whole night and a day adrift at sea. I have traveled on many long journeys. I have faced danger from rivers and from robbers. I have faced danger from my own people, the Jews, as well as from the Gentiles. I have faced danger in the cities, in the deserts, and on the seas. And I have faced danger from men who claim to be believers but are not. I have...