1 Corinthians 13:1 in The Message translation says this; "If I speak with human eloquence and angelic ecstasy but don’t love, I’m nothing but the creaking of a rusty gate." While driving in the country of Tennessee, you'll see old rusty farm implements along the side of the road. Plows, tractors and rusty gates. Make sure your life today is lived out in love. Who wants to be a creaky, rusty gate?

Today is our 48th wedding anniversary. We're celebrating in a beautiful cabin in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. We're having an amazing time enjoying the beauty of the Smoky Mountains and attractions in the area. From time to time people will ask; "What's the secret to being married so long?" In today's episode I'll share my answer and some I've heard from others.

Why does it seem so easy to complain? To focus on bad news, rather than good? To gossip about people behind their back rather than give them a compliment? To dwell on products that fall short rather than those that work well? Let's talk about it on today's Morning Manna.

James 4:14 says; "...For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away." Living knowing that your life is a vapor is different than just living. Things here are passing away. You’ve got to hold on to what will stand. Savor what matters. Life is short... make your's count today for yourself and others.

Paul writes in 1 Thess. 5:11; Encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. There is so much power in words of encouragement. It costs you nothing but is a huge investment in the lives of others. Be on the lookout today for opportunities to encourage others... they'll be blessed and you'll have joy unspeakable.

A dear friend posted something on Facebook that really spoke to me this morning. I want to share it with you on today's Morning Manna. While there are any number of things we may regret in our past... "Don't let the regrets of yesterday keep you from the blessings of today. God forgives and restores."

Psalm 4:8 says; I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety. Rest and renewal are critical to our walk with the Lord. Let's talk about it on today's Morning Manna.

Pruning is the process of cutting limbs from a plant to keep it healthy and productive. If there are branches that are not producing any fruit, they will be cut off completely. As we follow Jesus, we also require pruning in order to grow and change.

Promises are special... they're important. A promise is defined as a declaration or assurance that one will do a particular thing or that a particular thing will happen. God's Word is full of precious promises that we need to remember and rely upon, especially in times of difficulty. Let's talk about it on today's Morning Manna.

Rest has a reason. Rest is not just some chill time so we can relax... it's a time of replenishment and refueling so that have energy and hope to share with others. We're not here for just ourselves. We are here to be a blessing to others. Let's talk about it on today's Morning Manna.