This Was Good! 8/30/17

30 August 2017 - This Was Good! – Manna by Dorothy Callies

I would like to share the commentary that came from The Full Life Study Bible by Donald C. Stamps. I have my reason to share this devotion so bear with me until I make my point from this Manna.

Genesis 1:31 “And God saw everything that He had made, and behold, it was very good.”  Seven times God states that what He created was “good” (Genesis 1:4,10,12,18,21,25,31). Each part of God’s creation completely fulfilled His will and intended purpose.  God created the world to reflect His glory and to be a place where humankind could share in His joy and life.  Notice how God created according to a plan and order:

            Day 1 – light

            Day 2 – firmament (sky)

            Day 3 – dry land

            Day 4 – light-bearers

This part were to bring order to creation.

            Day 5 – fish and birds

            Day 6 – animals and humans

This part were giving life to creation.

            Day 7 – rest

This part of creation is complete and very good.

Dorothy:  I had noticed that some of the days, there was something new with Tony being improved. I watched Tony getting better slowly day by day.  I asked God, “Why couldn’t you just simply healed him completely like You did in the New Testament days when Jesus healed people instantly?” 

The next morning, Holy Spirit encourages me to watch the TBN channel on August 29^th, Tuesday morning at 6:00 with Joel Osteen. I’ll try my best to explain what impressed me about his sermon. He talked about our daily basis of lives and how to focus on small things and to say, “It was good.” Instead of looking into a “big picture” and waiting for that day to come into “big accomplishment or success.”

Start with small things to thank God for.  Each day, when something new and improved you have made, thank God for that and say, ‘it was good.’  Then Joel used the illustration of God’s creation and to notice each day when God had created something new, God would say, ‘it was good.’  On the sixth day, God saw everything that he had made, and, behold 'it was very good' (Genesis 1:31).

Joel also encouraged to take note that this was a partial victory to celebrate for and to know that ‘this was good’ whatever we have done.  God worked His creation on day to day basis.  When He created something new, He would say, “This was good!”  When I 'heard' this,  something inside of me became alive with words of encouragement, telling me to thank Him for healing Tony on day to day basis and to say, “this was good.”

The same day around noon, for the first time, I asked Tony if he would like a date out to McDonald which was nearby to BLM Rehab.  He was delighted. So I took Tony out to my small car, and he was able to get in and out with our new transport wheelchair (22 lbs). I was impressed and “it was very good.” Because last month or so, he couldn’t do it without help.  So I’m learning to thank God for small things each time I see new improvement in Tony.  

So your prayers does really matter and Tony wants to thank you for that. And God blessed you!

Dorothy

Anchors in the Storm 8/10/17

10 August 2017 – Anchors in the Storm – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Joshua 1:9 “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

I love that phrase: “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” I just felt like Tony and I need an anchor that hold us safe in our spiritual life. It is when I just cannot trust my feelings. An anchor of promise is just want I need.  When God called Joshua to lead His people after Moses’ death, He gave him anchors of promise he could rely on in troubled times.

The Lord said, “I will be with you.  I will not leave you nor forsake you. . . . The Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Josh. 1:5, 9).  God also gave Joshua and His people the “Book of the Law” to study and observe (vv.7-8).  That, and God’s presence, were anchors the Israelites could rely on as they faced many challenges.

I was faced with some feeling of doubts that threaten my faith in God. I didn’t like that feelings and I didn’t know what to do with it until I read the devotion, “Anchors in the Storm.”  Oh, how I love God that cares enough to tell me this: “I will be with you.  I will not leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5).

Although my faith may feel weak, but today I have anchored in God’s promises and presence, He will safely hold me and Tony. It is like a sailboat dropped an anchor in time of storm. That anchor is so important for sailboat that held the people inside until the storm is over and they could safely navigate the sailboat into an inlet area.  

That thought of an anchor in God’s promises and His presence, had really uplifted me and Tony very much.  That thought stayed with me all day long, an anchor in the Lord. Thought of a song came to me: “I’ve Anchored in Jesus.” Just a chorus.

I’ve anchored in Jesus, the storms of life I’ll brave;

I’ve anchored in Jesus, I fear no wind or wave;

I’ve anchored in Jesus for He hath power of save;

I’ve anchored to the Rock of A – ges.

[Lewis Edgar Jones, Sing His Praise]

Tony is doing well today! His motivation is improving. Keep praying that everything will works out for Tony to come home by August 31^st.  Many thanks!  I’ll keep you update. And few more names have been added to Marathon Prayer list are: Dean & Karen Hardy, Dianne Oppriecht, Joyce & Roy Bonnett, Joyce Matos and Richard & Linda Tritt.

Dorothy

Vision of Grapes 8/7/17

07 August 2017 – Vision of Cluster Grapes – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Since April 13^th, Tony fell at the hospital and had his broken right hip replaced, and fractured his upper arm, I was able to maintain my inner emotion in peaceful spirit for almost four months. I have heard some who said, “You are really strong.”  All I could think of was to stay in God’s Word every morning and pray and be at peace and support Tony in all he is going through.  

But recently I was beginning to experience the anguished inner spirit for the last few days and I asked God why. While I was praying, I saw a vision of a hand that held the cluster of grapes.  The hand started to squeeze and press together as the cluster of grapes’ juices flows into a bowl.  The more it squeezed, the more juices keep flowing until I could see some juice from the fruited grapes.

I mediate what this means. Then God spoke to my inner spirit and said “I am flowing out the juices of your deep crush and anguish heart. The juices from the grapes will become a blessing to others and many who need to come out of darkness and get into the marvelous light.”  One note I found that says, Peter reminded us that we are “a people for His own possession, that [we] may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9 translation).

John 15:5 came to me and Jesus said, “I am the Vine and you are the branches: you that lives in me and I live in you, we both bring forth much fruit: for without Me you can do nothing.” Then a vision of seeing Jesus at the Garden of Gethsemane praying, Jesus experienced anguished and crushed spirit that caused pain in his body, and sweat out the blood of His flesh.

I just absorbed those words into my heart, realizing what Jesus had gone through. At the cross, he was crushed and anguished filled His heart until He said, “It is finished.”  The time will come when God’s work inside of us that the prayers will be answered. I really appreciate the Prayer Marathon. I keep showing Tony the list of names so he knows you are praying for him.

May God bless you real good!

Dorothy

Secret Prayer, Revised 8/7/17

07 August 2017 Secret Prayer, News Revised as of 8/7/17 – by Dorothy Callies

Matthew 6:18 “Your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”

I was doing a lot of private prayers when I was with Tony at nursing home.  When I got home, I was just wondering if God hears me. I guess I just need reassurance from God. He led to read the Daily Bread devotion with God’s Word from Matt. 6:18 and the part that says, “He hears our private prayers.”  That really inspires me. Especially after I studied on Chapter 10 from the War Room book, the postures of prayers. One of them was silence in prayer.

Using example of Hannah, when the Bible described Hannah’s prayer in anguish, "she was speaking in her heart, only her lips were moving, but her voice was not heard” (1 Samuel 1:13). No one could hear her silent prayer.  But God did.  And answered her request when she prayed for a child, Samuel.

Right now, this is an urgent prayer for Tony to increase his strength and that he has to been trained how to get up from the floor to the seat before he could be released.  Also pray for home service to check our apartment for accessibility for Tony.

Two more names has been added. Pastor Dale Boyd and Becky Reeder.  Thank you for your prayers.  If you like you could check out the Deaf Prayer Partners Lifeline Blog and see the names on the list. 

http://deafprayerpartners.blogspot.com/

Revised as of 8/7 News of Tony 8/4/17

04 August 2017 - Overcome and news of Tony - Manna by Dorothy Callies

As for news of Tony, he is doing well and God is blessing him with an increase strength that he is able to walk more and more very slowly.  

There are few words of encouragement that blessed me to hear the words of Jesus Christ when He said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have troubles; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).   

There’s up and downs time with Tony, and that’s why the words of Jesus are so reassuring that Tony and I can have peace through a relationship with Jesus. Jesus has secured our ultimate victory. Ultimate victory means that we will have our final victory when there are obstacles to overcome.  Obstacles means something that gets in the way of progress or achievement. 

I would appreciate your marathon prayer to where there are obstacles for Tony to face and to overcome his difficulties. August 9^th would be 120 days that he hasn’t been home yet since April 11, 2017.  His broken upper arm is what cause the delay from April 13 to June 13^th, but now he could almost fully use his right arm to where he is able to use both of his hands on the walker to walk.  That is quite an achievement for Tony. So thank you for your continuing prayers. 

04 August 2017 – Updated Prayer Marathon for Tony Callies

1. Mary Tomasian                                                         
2. Celeste Herse and her prayer group                       
3. Sara Smith                                                                 
4. David Corrington                                                     
5. Lucy Schmidt and her prayer group                     

6. Priscilla Mark
7. Christine Loeffler  

8. Dawn Hottinger

9. Connie Martin

10. Dorothy Callies

11. Brenda Harness

12. Diana Kinder

13. Jane Loveland of Utah

14. June Ault

15. Alice Hodgson

16. Janet Nelson

17. Audrey Corrington

18. Mike and Ann Callies, Jr.

19. Cindy Dively and her prayer group

20. Kim Murphy

21. Corina and Aric Schoening

22. Kathryn and Ivan McGillem

23. JoAnne Monahan

24. Ken Monahan

25. Darlene Polson

26. Christine Spink Mitchell, Len and prayer group.

27. Leon Devriendt

28. Melvin and Missy Grey

29. Karen Kidd

30. Paula Hardy and her prayer group

31. David and Joyce Hunter

32. Marilyn Vickers

33. Barb Reu

34. Dale and Wilma Boyd

35. Terry and Suzy Newman

36. Diane Meinders

37. Margie Claussen

38. Lois and Marty Ratterree

39. Brooke Bateman

40. Billy Gipple and National Deaf Culture Fellowship

41. Tammy Newman Pellicer

42. Eugene Robbins

43. Linda Pare & her prayer group

44. Stephanie Wilcox

45. Donna Urban and her prayer group

46. Sandy and Roy Nieukirk

47. Cynthia and Scott McElroy

48. Karen Smith

49. Bridget Timmers

50. Stephen and Jill Valentine

51. Josh Calandrillo

52. Randy and Marti Callies

53. Roy Cruz
54. Randall Fennert

Grace Greater 8/28-31

28-31 August 2016 _ Grace Greater – Manna by Dorothy Callies

This Monday morning song came to me:

Grace Greater Than Our Sin.

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,

Grace that exceeds (beyond) our sin and our guilt,

Yonder (looking) on Calvary’s mount (much) outpoured,

There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt (cut shed).

Chorus:

Grace … grace … God’s grace …

Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;

Grace … grace … God’s grace …

Grace that is greater than all our sin.

(Wrote by Julia Harriette Johnston, Sing His Praise)

Jesus Healed a Sick Man at the Pool of Bethesda, Proving His Deity in His Power to Give Life – Reading from John 5:1-18.  The deity of Christ means that Jesus is God.

            Key verse: John 5:8-9 Jesus said to him, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.” And immediately the man was made well, took up his bed, and walked.  And that day was the Sabbath.

            (1)  From the book of John, he explained the seven signs or miracles to prove that Jesus is God. I was impressed with the third of the seven signs proving the deity of Jesus Christ happened in the city of Jerusalem at the pool of Bethesda, near the Sheep Gate.  Bethesda means “House of Mercy.” 

            (2)  Here one lame man out of a multitude (many) of ill people found grace in the eyes of the Lord Jesus, who said to the man, “Rise, take up your bed and walk.”  This healing was pure grace—that is, it was unmerited (unworthy) and solely (only) due (something owe) to God’s kindness and mercy (grace).

            (3)  It is important to understand the word “unmerited.” Let’s focus on the meaning of the word, merit.  It means the actions that determine one’s worthiness of reward; a quality worthy of praise; a person’s worth. Now, the word, unmerited means not worthy. A person being good cannot earned God’s grace.

            (4)  Jesus found the man in the temple, and said to him, “See, you have been made well.  Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you” (John 5:14).  The man’s healing was instantly and complete.  The man did not seek Jesus; Jesus sought him.  The man did not ask to be healed; it was Jesus who asked, “Do you want to be made well?”

            (5)  Even after Jesus healed him, he did not know who Jesus was.  The Jews asked him, “Who is the Man who said to you, ‘Take up your bed and walk’? But the one who was healed did not know who it was . . .  Afterward Jesus found him in the Temple” and he finally learned who had healed him.  He then left the temple and told the Jews that it was Jesus (John 5:12-14).

            (6)  Now the last thing Jesus said to him was, “See, you have been made well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you” (v.14).  Of the seven signs, this was the most unusual.  Only God has perfect, eternal knowledge of all people and all events—past, present, and future.

            (7)  In this sign or miracle, when He revealed to the man that his sins had caused his sickness, and warned him not to continue to practice sin.  Jesus had shown that He has all knowledge.

            (8)  In this sign or miracle we see Jesus the Creator giving life to one of His creatures (person) according to His sovereign (supreme ruler) will, by giving grace upon a hopeless, helpless, sinful man who had suffered physical infirmity for 38 years.

           

            Question: Why did Jesus heal only one man out of a multitude of sick and lame people waiting to be healed?  The man had no one to help him, and this sign or miracle shows us His grace upon this man.  This shows us that we have hope in forgiveness of sins and to sin no more. That story tells us of Jesus’ amazing grace and healing.

            This miracle was the most unusual because Jesus has shown what His grace really mean. This man didn’t even know who healed him until later Jesus met him and told him that it was He that healed him. Jesus knew the man’s problem and encouraged him to “sin no more.”  Only God has perfect, eternal knowledge of all people and all events—past, present, and future. This is why I sang it this morning:

Grace … grace … God’s grace …

Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;

Grace … grace … God’s grace …

Grace that is greater than all our sin.

May the Lord bless you today!

Dorothy

PS.  Part of this came from my personal Bible studies and I change it to Manna and I thought to share this part with you.  This would be a very good sermon to preach if you want to tell this story about God’s grace.

Jesus: I Pray 8/25-27

25-27 August 2016 – Jesus: I Pray – Manna by Dorothy Callies

John 17:1  Jesus spoke these words, lifted up His eyes to heaven, and said: “Father, the hour has come, Glorify Your Son, that Your Son also may glorify You.” (NKJV)

Poem: Jesus: I Pray (Based on KJV John 17)

Father, the hour is come:

            Glorify Thy Son;

     That Thy Son may glorify Thee.

Thou hast given Me power and grace

            To accept all the hardships I would face.

     Eternal life to many as Thou has given Me.

I have glorified Thee on the earth

            Since the day of My birth.

     I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do.

I have given them Your Word

            Out of My mouth, they have heard

     Each word was given and they truly believe in You.

Now, I pray for them that they are Thine.

            All Mine are Thine, and Thine are Mine.

     Keep them, oh, Father, from this world at all cost.

I am in this world, no more,

            But these do and I come to Thee for

     You, Father to keep them that none will be lost.

I pray that all of My believers may be one.

            I pray that Our desires for them may be done.

     That the world may see and truly know Our greatest love.

Neither do I pray for these disciples alone,

            But many more who will come to Me to atone.

     That they may behold My glory and Holy Spirit, My Dove.

                       

                                    --Jesus Christ  

                        (Written by Dorothy Callies, 1980’s)

Dorothy: If you ask, "Did I really heard Jesus spoke to me this poem as I wrote them down?" Jesus was real to me as He sat close by me on the sofa when I wrote this poem related to His prayers from John 17.  Three prayers of Jesus: 1. Jesus prays for Himself (John 17:1-5).  2. Jesus prays for His disciples (17:6-19).  3. Jesus prays for all believers (17:20-26).

May the words of Jesus bless you today.

Dorothy

Beyond My Fault 8/22-24

22-24 August 2016 – Beyond My Fault – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Psalm 37:24 KJV: “Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the LORD upholds him with His hand. NCV: “If he stumbles, he will not fall, because the Lord holds his hand.” AMP: “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down, for the Lord grasps his hand in support and upholds him.”

Do you ever felt like that sometimes you felt unworthy of who you are? I sometimes felt that. When I see these verses and a song . . . it makes me realized that God’s love is so amazing that our mind cannot really understand it.  It takes faith to believe what God’s Word says to us in Isaiah 61:3.

"I will give them a crown to replace their ashes, and the oil of gladness to replace their sorrow, and clothes of praise to replace their spirit of sadness. Then they will be called Trees of Goodness, trees planted by the Lord to show his greatness. Isaiah 61:3 NCV

"... to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor. Isaiah 61:3 KJV

Think about that! Replace our ashes? A crown of beauty!  Replace our sorrow? An oil of gladness! Replace spirit of sadness?  Clothes us with praise! That is how much God really, really, really loves you!  I grasp this and surrender my heart to Him and sing this song . . . of worship to Abba, our Father who art in heaven . . . to Jesus who loves us so much to look beyond my fault and forgave me. I sing to Jesus using “You” instead of “He” … You looked beyond my fault and saw my need . . .

Song: He Looked Beyond My Fault

                Song by Dottie Rambo [Londonderry Air]
Amazing grace shall always be my song of praise,
For it was grace that bought my liberty;
I do not know just why He came to love me so,
He looked beyond my fault and saw my need.

I shall forever lift mine eyes to Calvary
To view the cross where Jesus died for me;
How marvelous the grace that caught my falling soul!
He looked beyond my fault and saw my need. (2 times)

Oh how I pray that we all comes to love You, Jesus and allow Your love just to overflow us again and again.  Let this healing begin in our souls and be free in the Spirit of love. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen!

May God bless you today!!

Dorothy     

The Greatest, Who? 8/19-21

19 21 August 2016 – The Greatest, Who? – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Jesus was speaking to disciples. Who Is the Greatest?

Luke 9:46-48 NCV: Jesus’ followers began to have an argument about which one of them was the greatest. Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he took a little child and stood the child beside him. Then Jesus said, “Whoever accepts this little child in my name accepts me. And who ever accepts me accepts the One who sent Me, because whoever is the least among you all is really the greatest.”

Poem: Who Is the Greatest?

Who is the greatest of you all?
I called a child who was very small.

In the midst of them, I set the small child
as an example of tenderness, he was so mild.

You must change your way to enter
the kingdom of heaven which will last forever.

Be like this little child who is ever so humble.
A child who believes in Me easily and doesn’t mumble.

That is the kind of people that Father and I like the best.
They are what makes the kingdom of heaven, the greatest.

Anyone whose heart accepts the child in My name
Has accepted Me because the child and I are the same.

But woe to you who hurts the child that believes in Me.
It would be better for you to be drowned by the Sea.

Take heed with My little ones that you do not despise.
Because the angels watch over them so “be careful,” is My advice.

Poem from Matthew 18:1-6
[Written by Dorothy Callies in 1980]

I thought it would be special to send this out since I enjoy reminding myself the value of being like a child, such is the kingdom of God. Oh, heavenly Father, help us to be like a child, completely relying on You. Such a beautiful relationship of loving, caring, adoring together.
 

May Jesus’ words touch you and bless you!

Dorothy

Deaf Shall Know 8/16-18

16-18 August 2016 - The Deaf Shall Know – Manna by Dorothy Callies

The song or poem brought back the memory since I have seen this from the Deaf Convention’s theme: The Deaf Shall Know. It was probably around 1960's during Maxine Strobridge who was an A/G National Representative of Springfield, Missouri.  I am not sure of the exact wordings, however I would like to share this and the Scriptures. 

Song or Poem: The Deaf Shall Know

The Deaf shall know . .  the Savior, Jesus Christ.

The Deaf shall know . .  the truth and the life.

The Deaf shall know . .  that Jesus came to save today.

The Deaf shall know . .  that Jesus is the only way.

(Author, unknown)

Reading from NKJV Mark 7:31-37 – Jesus Heals a Deaf Mute (Cannot speak).

“Again, departing from the region of Tyre and Sidon, He came through the midst of the region of Decapolis to the Sea of Galilee.  32) Then they brought to Him one who was deaf and had an impediment (not able to speak) in his speech, and they begged Him to put His hand on him.

33) And He took him aside from the multitude, and put His fingers in his ears, and He spat and touched his tongue.  34) Then, looking up to heaven, He sighed, and said to him, “Ephphatha,” that is, “Be opened.”  35) Immediately his ears were opened, and the impediment of his tongue was loosed, and he spoke plainly.

36) Then He commanded them that they should tell no one; but the more He commanded them, the more widely they proclaimed it.  37) And they were astonished beyond measure, saying, “He has done all things well.  He makes both the deaf to hear and the mute to speak.”

From verse 36, do you ever wonder why Jesus commanded them not to tell about the healing? The commentary from the Quick Verse Life Application Bible explain why. [Jesus asked the people not to talk about this healing, because He didn’t want to be seen simply as a miracle worker.  He didn’t want the people to miss His real message.  We must not be so concerned about what Jesus can do for us that we forget to listen to His message.]

Dorothy: My mother took me to several healing meetings believing that God would heal me of my deafness until I was 12 years old, she finally said, “God has a plan for you.  You are going to a Deaf School.”  So I went to Deaf School and learn the sign language and my education improved. I was saved when I was 13 and understood the message of salvation through Sign Language. From there God has done many wonderful works through my being Deaf.  Even God is glorified through Deaf people who loves Him.

Key: Jesus wants our relationship and to listen to Him personally.  The first three years, Jesus developed the relationship with His disciples before He sent them out to work for Him. So it is important to stay close to Him, worship Him and to love Him.

God bless you today! 

Dorothy

Deaf Hear Words 8/13-15

13-15 August 2016 - That Day Deaf Hear – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Isaiah 29:18 KJV “And in that day shall the deaf hear the words of the book . . .”

Song: In That Day Shall the Deaf

In that day shall the Deaf

Hear the Words of the Book.

In that day shall the Deaf

Hear the Words of the Book.

Word of joy, Word of peace,

Word of Love that never cease,

And that Jesus died for all.

(Author, unknown)

Reading from Isaiah 29:17-24, there is a note from the Full Life Study Bible inspired me to share this inspiration Word of God with you.  

“Isaiah’s prophecies of judgment are never without hope, for they characteristically include the theme of Israel’s restoration.  These verses envision the last days of this age when the humble and poor of Israel will turn to God (v.18-19) and the wicked will be destroyed (v.20-21).

Israel’s full restoration will occur (happen) shortly before Christ’s return to earth to reign (Rom. 11:26; Rev. 12:6). The blessings of sight for the blind and hearing for the deaf (v.18; 35:5) accompanied Christ’s first coming; God’s people will receive full redemption at His second coming.”

Reading from Isaiah 35:5-7 KJV, “Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. Then shall the lame man leap as an hart (deer), and the tongue of the dumb (can’t speak) sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.  And the parched (dry) ground shall become a pool, and the thirsty land springs of water . . .”

Dorothy: I was watching TBN, a religious program and there were special people singing. Being deaf, I was not able to really hear at all and I talked to God about this.  Until I read the song and the research, I came to realize that God did care about the Deaf.  One for today, the Deaf shall read His Word.  The second is the future prophecy about Israel’s full restoration . . . it means all people will be healed from deafness, blindness, lame and those who couldn’t speak before Christ’s reign on earth.

The note quoted that “Isaiah’s prophecies of judgment are never without hope.” To me it means that we have hope and that God does care about us being “Deaf” and He has a great plan for us. So . . .

Let us trust our God today!

Dorothy

Words Forever 8/10-12

10-12 August 2016 - God’s Words Are Forever – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Isaiah 40:8 NKJV “The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of God stands forever.”

The commentary notes from Full Life Study Bible:  “The word of our God shall stand for ever.” All created life is fragile (easily broken or destroyed) and weak and will ultimately (completely) come to an end. But God’s word endures forever.  God’s promises will be fulfilled; His redemptive truth cannot be annulled (cancelled) or changed.

His redemptive truth means His redeeming plan has already been set up. Jesus is our Redeemer. He bought us back from what Satan had stolen from Adam in the first place. The Bible reminds us that people are like grass that withers, and flower that easily fades, but God’s Word is our promise and that includes healing . . . There’s a song that seems to impress me so I like to share it with you.

Song: The Bible Stands

            (Written by Haldor Lillenas, Sing His Praise)

The Bible stands like a rock undaunted (not afraid)

‘Mid the raging storms of time;

Its pages burn with the truth eternal,

And they glow with a light sublime (shine).

Chorus:

The Bible stands tho’ the hills may tumble; (fall suddenly)

It will firmly stand when the earth shall crumble; (break down)

I will plant my feet on its firm foundation,

For the Bible stands.

The Bible stands for every test we give it,

For its Author is divine;

By grace alone I expect to live it,

And to prove it and make it mine.

Chorus:

The Bible stands though the hills may tumble;

It will firmly stand when the earth shall crumble;

I will plant my feet on its firm foundation,

For the Bi – ble – stands . . .

May this Manna encourage us to hold on to “what our God says will stand forever.”  Let us trust God today!

Dorothy

The Father Knows 8/7-9

07-09 August 2016 - The Father Knows – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Matthew 6:32b “Your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.”

NLT: “Your heavenly Father already knows all your needs.”

Matt. 6:33 NLT “And He will give you all you need from day to day if you live for Him and make the Kingdom of God your primary concern.” Also, “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries.  Today’s trouble is enough for today” (Matt. 6:34).

Dorothy:  We know the song, He is all I need, but sometimes it comes with a grief that the prayers are not always answered as we would have like to see it done.  Holy Spirit came to me with this card verse, “Your heavenly Father knows . . .” It felt like He made a deep impression on my heart and repeatedly said, “Your heavenly Father knows . . . He knows . . .”

Does God cares when our heart is pained … too deeply for a joyous song? Does God cares when our burdens are too heavy to carry … And when there’s too much problems that cause distress? Sometimes the way becomes weary and seems like the days are so long.  Does God really care?  Does Jesus care?  There is an answer from the song.

Song: Does Jesus Care?

O yes, He cares: I know He cares,

His heart is touched with my grief;

When the days are weary,

The long nights dreary,

I know my Savior cares.

(Frank E. Graeff; J. Lincoln Hall)

This is an uplifting song that our heavenly Father knows our needs. We can know that Jesus does care what we are going through. So . . .

Trust Him today,

Dorothy

Be Faithful 8/4-6

04-06 August 2016 - Be Faithful – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Matthew 25:23b “Thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.”

Awesome! Be faithful! Two powerful words encourage us to “Be Faithful!” Do you ever feel discouraged when everything seems like nothing has happened yet? What should we do? Remember the words of Jesus when He said … “Faithful servant.” It means a lot to Jesus to call us, “Faithful servants.”

Can Jesus count on you to be loyal to Him as a friend?  Can Jesus count on you to be firm in keeping promises?  Can Jesus count on you to fulfill the duties as a faithful worker? Are you the one that has faith?  Can He count on you to be faithful to Him?

Rev. 2:10 “… be thou faithful unto death …” Those are the words of Jesus Christ to the Church in Smyrna (one of the seven churches). Even Jesus encouraged the Church in Smyrna not to be afraid of suffering. “Fear none …”

Dorothy: What does this means to me?  A lot because there are so many things we have been doing including the Lord’s work.  The more we got older, the more we wondered if our day to day basis have meanings? Am I doing the right thing?  Until I saw the verse, “Thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things.” Jesus’ words inspires me.  Also the song reminds me to return . . .

Song: Return

Return to the One who loves you

Return to the Savior who cares.

He’ll give perfect peace

Your burden He’ll bear

Return to the Savior who cares.

  (Inspiring Choruses)

Oh, my heart melt … Thank You, Jesus!

Dorothy

Eye Not Seen 8/1-3

01-03 August 2016 - Eye Not Seen – Manna by Dorothy Callies

1 Cor. 2:9 KJV “But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.”

From what I understand about this verse: God in His wisdom has done many wonderful things that we have yet to see and hear. It means there’s always more coming from Him and let us continue in faith, believing God will do great things for us.

And this verse lead me to find a song called, “Isn’t He Wonderful” verses written by Herbert Buffum, Jr., but the chorus was anonymous. The song came from ‘Melodies of Praise’ Gospel Publishing House in Springfield, Missouri.

Song: Isn’t He Wonderful

What a wonderful, wonderful love,

Brought our Savior to earth below.

And our sins, which were scarlet are cleansed,

For His blood washes whiter than snow.

Chorus:

Isn’t He wonderful, wonderful, wonderful,

Isn’t He wonderful, wonderful.

Eyes not seen, ears not heard,

What’s recorded in God’s Word,

Isn’t He wonderful, wonderful.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, You have so many wonderful things for us that we have not seen yet. Like David said in the Psalm 27:14 “Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strength our heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”

We thank You for having done many good things for us already.  By faith we are still looking forward to see marvelous things that You, God will do for us. I pray that our faith will grow more and more than ever before to trust in Your miracles especially in healings for many of us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen!

God bless you!

Dorothy

The Redeemer Shall Come (8/31)

31 August 2015 - The Redeemer Shall Come – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Isaiah 59:20 KJV, “And the Redeemer shall come to Zion, and unto them that turn from transgression in Jacob, saith the Lord.”

Reading made easy from NLT: “The Redeemer will come to Jerusalem,” says the Lord, “to buy back those in Israel who have turned from their sins. 21) And this is my covenant with them,” says the Lord. “My Spirit will not leave them, and neither will these words I have given you. They will be on your lips and on the lips of your children and your children’s children forever. I, the Lord, have spoken!” Isaiah 50:20-21.

This Redeemer is Jesus Christ. He will come to those who are honest to themselves when they turn away from their sins of unbelief and serve the Lord and to the true Israel. God said, “My Spirit and My Words will not leave them.” God promises those who turn from their sins and accept the Messiah that His Spirit will come upon them and His word will not depart from their mouths.

God was speaking about the baptism of the Holy Spirit when He said, “My Spirit and My words will not leave them.” When the Redeemer, the Messiah comes to Zion, the Jerusalem, there will be a great revival and a great outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon Israel, just like in the day of Pentecost according to the book of Acts 2:4. The Israel will be filled with the Holy Spirit, and began to speak with other tongues or languages, as the Spirit keeps giving them the word, God’s languages.

It is important to understand what God is trying to tell us. When He says, “My Spirit and My Words will not leave them,” He meant the Comforter who will abide with you forever according to the Word of Jesus in John 14:16. It is also His promise to His people, the Israel that the Holy Spirit will abide with them forever.

*Many of the Christians have no idea what difference it would make if there were no Holy Spirit in this world. Without the Holy Spirit there would be no creation, no universe, no human race. Without the Holy Spirit there would be no Bible, No New Testament, no power to proclaim the gospel. Without the Holy Spirit there would be no faith, no new birth, no holiness, and no Christians at all in the world. [*Commentary]

The Holy Spirit is a divine Person like the Father and the Son. This is why God said, “My Spirit, the Holy Spirit will not leave you. My Words, the Holy Spirit will bring all things to your remembrance” (John 14:16, 26). Holy Spirit is the One that glorify Christ (John 16:14). It will be a great day when our Redeemer comes in His glory!

Song: Fairest Lord Jesus!

Fairest Lord Jesus! Ruler of all nature!

O Thou of God and man the Son!

Thee will I cherish, Thee will I honor,

Thou, my soul’s glory, joy, and crown!

Fair is the sunshine, Fairer still the moonlight,

And all the twinkling, starry host.

Jesus shines brighter, Jesus shines purer,

Than all the angels heav’n can boast!

(Lyrics: Munster Gesangbuch, 1677, Sing His Praise)

Fullness of Israel (8/29-30)

29-30 August 2015 - The Fullness of Israel – Manna by Dorothy Callies

Roman 11:12 KJV, “Now if the fall of them (Israel) be the riches of the world, and the diminishing of them (Israel) the riches of the Gentiles; how much more their (Israel’s) fullness?” NTL, “Now if the Gentiles were enriched because the Jews turned down God’s offer of salvation, think how much greater a blessing the world would share when the Jews finally accept it.”

From Luke 19:41 *Jesus weeping over Israel’s rejection of God’s way of salvation to the whole world. *The fullness of Israel may refer to a time when many in Israel will believe in Jesus Christ as God’s divine Son and Messiah, bringing even greater blessing to the world (Rom. 11:12). Paul said, “I say then, Have they stumbled that they should fall? God forbid: but rather through their fall of salvation is come unto the Gentiles, for to provoke them to jealousy” (Rom. 11:11 KJV). [*Note from the commentary, The Full Life Study Bible]

Reading from New Century Version brings much clearer picture so let’s read from Roman 11:11-12. “So I ask: When the Jews fell, did that fall destroy them? No! But their mistake brought salvation to those who are not Jews (Gentiles), in order to make the Jews jealous. 12) The Jews’ mistake brought rich blessings for the world, and the Jews’ loss brought rich blessings for the non-Jewish (Gentile) people. So surely the world will receive much richer blessings when enough Jews become the kind of people God wants.”

Another translation is also good to read from NLT. Romans 11:11-12, “Did God’s people stumble and fall beyond recovery? Of course not! His purpose was to make His salvation available to Gentiles, and then Jews would be jealous and want it for themselves. 12) Now if the Gentiles were enriched because the Jews turned down God’s offer of salvation, think how much greater a blessing will share when the Jews finally accept it.” Praise the Lord! This is beyond our imagination!

Another interesting thing to notice is when the fullness of Gentiles comes to Christ and then all Israel will be saved. Let’s read Romans 11:25-26, NLT Paul said, “I want you to understand this mystery . . . Some of the Jews have hard hearts, but this will last only until the complete number of Gentiles comes to Christ. 26) And so all Israel will be saved. . .” So God’s sincere purpose is to have mercy on all, both Jews and Gentile, to include in His kingdom all people who believe in Christ.

Okay, there were three things that inspired me this month of August: 1) The fullness of time until Christ came (Gal.4:4); 2) the fullness of Gentiles preparing for marriage of the Lamb (Rom.11:25); 3) and the fullness of Israel when they will look upon the “Pierced One,” Jesus, the Messiah, in His mercy will have wide open arms to embrace His own brothers, His family (Rom.11:12; Zech.12:10).

Prayer: “Dear Heavenly Father, we want to thank You for Your marvelous plans when we see the whole thing that You are a merciful God, to the Gentiles and to Israel. You gave the prophets Your Words that “A Deliverer will come from Jerusalem, and He will turn Israel from all ungodliness. And then I will keep My covenant with them and take away their sins” (Rom.11:26-27; Isa.59:20-21). All things are for Your glory. Thank You for the wonderful Words of promise. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen!” 

Oh! What a day that will be when we will see Jesus!

Song: What A Day

What a day that will be

When my Jesus I shall see,

When I look upon His face,

The One who saved me by His grace

When He takes me by the hand

And leads me through the Promised Land

What a day, glorious day that will be.

(James Hill, Sing His Praise)