All (by Debrah S. Bernier)

All of my hope is in You, Lord, Without You I have none. For You are God in heaven, The Holy Spirit and the Son. All of my love is due You, Lord For You alone are love. You wrap it gently ’round us Poured out from heaven above. All of my peace is in … Continue reading →

Changed (by Debrah S. Bernier)

Lord, how I love To hear Your name. Since I’ve accepted You I have never been the same. For You changed my heart- Turned it from stone to flesh, Took away my old attitudes And made them new and fresh. You made me something precious Out of nothing very good, And helped me to become … Continue reading →

God Made (by Debrah S. Bernier)

God made the beauty of the oceans, And the fragrance of the sea. When He made them He spoke That is how they came to be. He made the lovely flowers bloom, And made the birds to fly. He made the baby chick yellow And made children to ask “Why?”. God knew what He was … Continue reading →

Helping Hand (by Debrah S. Bernier)

The Lord won’t give you More than you can stand. Just call upon His name, He offers you a helping hand. He will bring you Through the mighty flood. He paid our way out With His oh, so precious, blood. So when you feel overwhelmed, Thinking you can’t go on- Just trust in Him- Your … Continue reading →

He Is There (by Debrah S. Bernier)

When the day is lonely And, oh, so very long I’ll gladly praise Your name And join the angels in their song. Your praise shall be In the depths of my heart, And, therefore spill forth Then, from my mouth, depart. Yes, when the day’s lonely Always remember He’s there, To love and to guide … Continue reading →

Your Spirit Is…(by Debrah S. Bernier)

Your Spirit’s alive within me Due to Your glorious grace, And also because of Your mercy Which shines on my humble face. Your Spirit’s working within me For I have changed due to You, I pray that the changes continue ‘Til, with Your plans, I am through. Your Spirit is comforting me And helping me … Continue reading →

Inspiration (by Debrah S. Bernier)

I know You’ve covered Me and my sins. I know against the devil You’re the One who wins. You are the only wise King Who knows right from wrong, And You’re the inspiration For many a poem and song. You are my inspiration To do the things I do. The good things, the kind things … Continue reading →

As I Walk (by Debrah S. Bernier)

As I walk slowly Along Your path, There are times of pain And joy that makes me laugh. There are times of love And times of sorrow, It’s then You give me strength To get me to tomorrow. But walking Your way, The way that You lead, Is much better still When Your words I … Continue reading →

Easter (by D.A. Cobb)

Her name is Easter. I knew of her by reading the book Scars and Stripes[1], a family biography written by her son, a gifted writer and pastor. It is the story of a family’s struggle in the rugged coal mining sections of Kentucky and West Virginia and their survival from the hands of an alcoholic … Continue reading →

Naked (by D.A. Cobb)

Don’t panic! This is a clean and humorous story. It came from a neighbor who told me this tale about her four year old niece. It was Easter morning and this little sweetheart awoke to find the Easter bunny had left a beautiful basket filled with the traditional jelly beans and other mouth watering treats.  … Continue reading →

I Will… (by Debrah S. Bernier)

I will walk with You, Lord, I will go where You go. I will follow where You lead, I will go with Your flow. I will listen when You speak, I will do what You say. I will ask when I need to, I will pray when You pray. I will praise You forever, I … Continue reading →

Stay Beside Me (by Debrah S. Bernier)

Stay beside me, Lord In all that I do. Reach out to hold me, Whenever I am blue. Hold me up please When I just might fall. Answer my plea When, on You, I call. Keep me on the right path, For all of my days. Help me be strong As I follow Your ways!

Missing You (by Debrah S. Bernier)

There is still an empty place Inside my heart for you, To fill it with anything else Just wouldn’t ever do. For each day that I live Without you by my side, Is another day of grieving- My feelings, though I hide. But there will come a day When I shall weep no more. That’s … Continue reading →

One Cent (by D.A. Cobb)

Shortly after retirement I received a notice from the company that my corporate stock options were about to expire. In order for them not to become worthless they needed to be exercised and fairly soon. I met with my accountant to plan our tax strategy and with my attorney on how the sale would affect … Continue reading →

The Choice (by Debrah S. Bernier)

In a winter’s wonderful wind, I hear Your gentle voice, Telling me the right way, To follow is my choice. In every single sunlit sky, I see Your glory shine. It’s beams, they fall upon me And still the choice is mine. In every beautiful day I feel Your strong embrace. And, yet, the choice … Continue reading →

You Are My Friend (by Debrah S. Bernier)

You are my Friend, I’ll be there for You Whether times are good And when times are tough, too. You are my Friend I’ll be faithful to You. I won’t walk away No matter what You do. You are my Friend I’ll always love You, And let Your precious love At all times, shine through!

Interviews (by D.A. Cobb)

Last evening I returned to my college alma mater for the first time in years. I had been asked by the business school to help conduct mock sessions for graduating seniors as they prepared for their corporate interviews. It was a great experience for me and I hope an interesting and informative time for them. … Continue reading →

Love (by Debrah S. Bernier)

Love is patient, Love is kind. It’s a state of the heart And a matter of the mind. It’s a blessing to others And a blessing to you It’s a sharing condition Between you and me, too. Love- when you have it Is a wonderful thing. Sharing it always Makes your heart sing!

Sometimes, Always (by Debrah S. Bernier)

Sometimes I think what I need Is the thing I really don’t. The direction You choose for me Is a way to go that I won’t. Sometimes my hearts desire Is exactly the same as Yours, But then my fickle heart Will change it to daily chores. Always You forgive me For the mistakes I … Continue reading →

Pig Soup (by Len Winneroski)

A large herd of pigs was feeding on the nearby hillside. The demons begged Jesus, “Send us among the pigs; allow us to go into them.” He gave them permission, and the impure spirits came out and went into the pigs. The herd, about two thousand in number, rushed down the steep bank into the … Continue reading →

My Broken Cross (by D.A. Cobb)

Some time ago, and as a token of her love and compassion for this sinner, a friend presented me with a few hand-made wooden crosses.  For years I carried them with me as a superstition believing they would protect me from harm and from risk. I kept them in my office, on my person, at … Continue reading →

Not My Home (by Debrah S. Bernier)

This big old world Is not my home It’s just where I live While my body does roam. It’s not where My treasure rests While I’m going about Conquering my quests. Nor is it where I’ll spend all my days, I’ll just stay a few While following His ways. Then when I die Safely home … Continue reading →

A Wasted Life? (by Len Winneroski)

“God has picked out people who are laughable, and through them He is confounding those who think they are high and mighty.  Low-class, second-rate, common, average, run-of-the-mill people- those so low that the world doesn’t even think they’re worth the time of day-these are the ones whom God has chosen…” – translation of 1 Corinthians … Continue reading →

Let Christ Be…(by Debrah S. Bernier)

Let Christ be the Head Never, ever the tail. Let Him give you strength So you don’t feel frail. Let Him be the Boss- The One in control, Walk along His way Make His desire your goal. Let Him be your Master, Taking care of you, Supplying your every need- That’s what He does do!

We Are Your People (by Debrah S. Bernier)

We are Your people You are our God. We are to share You And give you our laud. We are Your people Who share of Your grace And encourage others To put a smile on their face. We are Your people And always will be, Since You hung and died On that old rugged tree!

Growing In Christ (by Debrah S. Bernier)

One dark, empty night When I was all alone, I closed me eyes and saw You And thought, “My, but You have grown.” You’re bigger now Than You were then, When I accepted You And turned away from sin. May You grow larger In my sight, And stay beside me In the dark, empty night!

Lesson From A Sparrow (by D.A. Cobb)

As we headed home after completing a few necessary errands the weather was turning rainy, cold and blustery, unusual weather for a spring day in May. We decided to have an early dinner and then return to the comfort and warmth of our cozy apartment. When we arrived at the restaurant the hostess seated us … Continue reading →

No Ads Anymore!!

Dear friends, It was pointed out to me today that ya’ll have been seeing ads in the devotional postings.  I just purchased a “no ad” option for our site so please let me know if you are still receiving any advertisements in our devotional writings.  Please continue to pray for our site and encourage others … Continue reading →

Cockroaches and Butterflies (by Len Winneroski)

Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son. This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil … Continue reading →

A Holy Stink (by Len Winneroski)

But thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere. For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing. To the one we are an … Continue reading →

Spring (by D.A. Cobb)

Every year at this time I say the same thing, “What in the world am I doing living here.” It is now the middle of January and we’ve already topped last year’s snowfall and this morning the temperature dipped below zero. Today’s high was 5 degrees with more snow to come. Next week the forecast … Continue reading →

Exposure (by D. A. Cobb)

Before the days of television I enjoyed listening to college football bowl games on New Year’s Day. Back then there were only four; the Sugar, Cotton, Orange and the granddaddy of them all, the Rose Bowl. Today there are thirty five bowls represented by seventy teams and the telecasts run from December 17th to January … Continue reading →

Ideas?

Jesus prayed, “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.  May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know that you sent me and have loved them even … Continue reading →

Tilting (by D.A. Cobb)

Recently our family held a family get together. It is exciting to be with your children and grandchildren and receive those impromptu hugs and kisses. After dinner my daughter in law brought out our favorite dessert, chocolate cake. She used her grandmother’s famous receipt and it was wonderful. Many at the table questioned if it … Continue reading →

Renewed Year (by Ricky Maye)

As this New Year has begun, I can truly say I am not anticipating it; at all. I am, however, hoping for a renewed year. A year of rekindled desires, relit flames and a spark of passion for those things I once had a passion for. My hope is that a passion you may have … Continue reading →

God Intentions (by Len Winneroski)

Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! Those who hear and don’t act are like those who glance in the mirror, walk away, and two minutes later have no idea who … Continue reading →

2011 in review

The WordPress.com stats helper monkeys prepared a 2011 annual report for this blog. Here’s an excerpt: The concert hall at the Syndey Opera House holds 2,700 people. This blog was viewed about 17,000 times in 2011. If it were a concert at Sydney Opera House, it would take about 6 sold-out performances for that many … Continue reading →

Christmas Eve (by D.A. Cobb)

This December my favorite radio station is broadcasting only Christmas music for the entire month. I have been listening to seasonal hymns, hand-bells, special holiday carols, inspirational orchestras and church choirs, singing chipmunks along with country pop sprinkled with rock and roll and soft jazz. This is an exciting time of year and the music … Continue reading →

Christmas Tree (by D.A. Cobb)

Not far from my home is an old farm market. During the spring it is stocked with colorful garden flowers and potted plants, in the summer with fresh and delicious produce and beginning in December with live trees, wreaths and garlands. That’s right! Live Christmas trees in a world full of artificial everything. This past … Continue reading →

Thanksgiving (by D.A. Cobb)

This afternoon while rearranging a bookshelf I picked up an old and rarely used Bible. A forgotten booklet inside the front cover fell to the floor and as I reached down I noticed it was a daily devotional, aged and tattered, for the month of November. As believers we have learned to celebrate Thanksgiving daily, … Continue reading →

Daylight Savings (by D.A. Cobb)

I live in a state where daylight savings time has been an issue for decades, but at least we never had to “stay up until 2AM” to adjust our clocks forward or backward as did the others within our time zone. It didn’t bother me one way or the other, except when I could only … Continue reading →

Calling All Writers!

Good morning friends!  I just wanted to tell everyone what a joy that it has been to serve our Lord through posting the wonderful devotional writings that my dear brothers and sisters in Christ have submitted.  I hope that this site has been a blessing to you.  We are looking for more writers, artists and … Continue reading →

A Vote For God (by D.A. Cobb)

After entering the polling booth during a recent election I pulled the curtain closed and  began the search for my intended choices. Most of those running for office were relatively unknown; still I treasure this constitutional right. I checked each preference and pulled the appropriate lever, registering my vote for what I hoped would be … Continue reading →

Honored (by D.A. Cobb)

I was recently given my first assignment as a newly commissioned Stephen Minister. I expected to care for someone maybe going through a difficult divorce or possibly a traumatic job loss. Little did I know I would be assigned to a terminally ill husband, father and grandfather. Not only that, he had slipped into a … Continue reading →

Hello Jesus (by D.A. Cobb)

One day while browsing the aisles of a local Christian bookshop I came upon a life size poster of Jesus. He had the face we all recognize, beard, gentle compassionate eyes with dark handsome features. Before I realized it I was saying, “Hello, Jesus.” At that moment I turned and saw a young woman shopper … Continue reading →

God’s Message (by D.A. Cobb)

A few months ago I attended a series of lectures at our local visitors and convention center. I always look forward to going downtown with all its hustle and bustle and listening to the distinctive sounds of our growing city. Whether for a sporting event or just for dinner the trip is always exciting. While … Continue reading →

Dog Walking (by D.A. Cobb)

I have a neighbor who takes her dog for a “walk” three or four times a day. It is a cute little Pekingese and is thoroughly spoiled. What is unusual is the owner usually carries the pup to a nearby fire hydrant or tree and then carries it back home. Isn’t this what God does … Continue reading →

Sigh Language (by Len Winneroski)

“The Lord says: “These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me. Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.” Isaiah 29:13 (NIV) The Lord has recently reminded me of the power of nonverbal communication.  A few … Continue reading →

Color (by D.A. Cobb)

The other day I decided to have lunch at a local delicatessen known for their oversized sandwiches and sinful desserts. Whenever I visit this historic eatery I sit at the counter to watch the interaction between over stressed waitresses and grumpy cooks. So that afternoon I relaxed on a comfortable swivel stool, ordered my “heart … Continue reading →

Broken Tree (by D.A. Cobb)

We had a horrific storm sweep through town last Friday evening. When the sirens began their ominous warning I decided to turn off the TV and shut down the computer. Heavy sheeting rain with periods of hail ripped across the area. Frequent bursts of lightning exposed black racing clouds and thunder explosions were loud enough … Continue reading →

A Journey Into Discussion* (by Ricky Maye)

That night I was to meet a friend at his home to discuss some recent throwbacks involving his upbringing. We sat on the couch simultaneously. Just as Quick he began to speak. “It was the divorce.” He began to rapidly pant, explaining that he had a picture perfect childhood. That is until the divorce. He … Continue reading →

Car Wash (by D.A. Cobb)

Every so often I take my car to a full service wash where it is cleaned inside and out.  Tires and wheels are scrubbed, the interior is wiped clean, the exterior hand dried and the windows become spotless. My car always seems to run better when it is dirt free and shiny. One afternoon while … Continue reading →

Finch (by D.A. Cobb)

Today while sitting in my study I looked outside and there, perched on the window screen was a beautiful goldfinch, bright and cheerful, looking back at this writer of devotions. The encounter lasted for only a few seconds and then it flew off to charm yet another surprised viewer. Like the finch, unexpected moments happen … Continue reading →

Mirror Droppings (by Len Winneroski)

The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them. Psalm 34:7 (NIV) Earlier this summer I spent a lot of time cleaning bird droppings off of my cars.  My car was always frosted in the same place, by the mirrors on the drivers and passenger side doors.  As you … Continue reading →

Jim (by D.A.Cobb)

His name is Jim. We met a few years ago during our first class meeting for the Stephen Ministry. He and Dena were the only husband and wife members of the group other than our leaders. I had looked forward to a long term, close and treasured friendship with this man who I considered a rock … Continue reading →

Cruise Control (by D.A. Cobb)

This past Fall I took a lengthy road trip. It was 2840 miles to be exact and I was driving to attend a mini high school reunion. It was held in southern Florida where many of my classmates now live. The weekend was filled with laughter and hugs as we reminisced about long ago school … Continue reading →

Cart (by D.A. Cobb)

I needed to make a desperate run to the grocery. I was on my way home after a tiring Stephen Ministry visit with a terminally ill patient and his supportive but fearful wife. In addition my arthritis was acting up after walking the hallways of the local hospital, compounded by days of heavy rain and … Continue reading →

Coffee4Good

“Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.” Mark 9:41 (NIV) Dear friends, the Lord has brought a wonderful ministry across my path this week that I wanted to share with you.  Please check out coffee4good … Continue reading →

Alter Call (by D.A. Cobb)

I have been asked, as a member of the Stephen Ministry, to assist during the alter call at one of our weekend church services. It is truly an honor and comes with awesome responsibilities. We are to pray for and lift up those in need and encourage the one’s seeking an even closer relationship with … Continue reading →

From Numbers to Letters (by D.A. Cobb)

I recently spent a few days in the hospital undergoing a variety of tests. After being poked, jabbed and stuck they could not find any cause for my discomfort. I suppose that is why people call it “the practice of medicine.” I certainly didn’t get any rest as the nurses and aides came into the … Continue reading →

Adam (by Debrah S. Bernier)

The Lord made Adam And then He made Eve. They were meant to be a couple, To each other they were to cleave. The Lord gave Adam A job all his own- To name all the animals, And those with no backbone. Adam did his job, He did it so well, That now we have … Continue reading →

Let Us Not Compare (by Gary Roberts)

When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. 2 Corinthians 10:12 How easy it is to compare ourself to someone else. One of two things happens – either we feel a whole lot better than the other person or we feel like we don’t measure up. We think … Continue reading →

Laying it Down (by Ricky Maye)

In the book of James there is a verse that traditionally reads like this, “Confess your sins, one to another so that you may be healed.” James-5:16 I’m sure you can see how this has played a part as legalism in some of our denominations, churches and many different religions around the world. When looking … Continue reading →

Pure Joy (by Becky Rommel)

Good Morning!! James 1:2 says, “Consider it pure JOY my brother, whenever you face trials of many kinds because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be MATURE and COMPLETE, not LACKING ANYTHING.” Wow!! Pure JOY when I’m in trouble? That’s what I … Continue reading →

Baggage (by Ricky Maye)

Dual baggage. A few years back I was on a flight to Michigan and I saw a weird act of kindness. While checking in at the self check in (because it’s quicker!) I laid eyes on a family who was over their carry on baggage limit by one bag, and they were arguing about which one … Continue reading →

The Pursuit of Satiety (by Len Winneroski)

But he said to them, “I have food to eat that you know nothing about.” John 4:32 (NIV) I have been reading the Gospel of John and thinking about satiety the past few weeks.  According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, satiety is “the quality or state of being fed or gratified to or beyond capacity.” To … Continue reading →

Help Me I’m Blessed! (by Aaron Case)

I remember the first time I read the Sermon on the Mount. To be more specific it was the Beatitudes (or blessings) found in the first 12 verses of Mathew that stood out to me. I could totally completely understand it. I’ve heard of people who just don’t get it. They don’t understand how on … Continue reading →

Acceptance (by Rebecca Albrecht)

Watching the final fare wells of the Oprah shows I could not agree with her more as she spoke that thru the 25 years, guest after guest and with many varied topics that there was a common thread…..Everyone only wanted one thing and one thing alone as their foundation……and that is acceptance.  To feel worthy, … Continue reading →

Hidden Manna (by Len Winneroski)

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I have not come to abolish them but to fulfill them.  For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth disappear, not the smallest letter, not the least stroke of a pen, will by any means disappear from the Law until … Continue reading →

Easter (by D.A. Cobb)

Her name is Easter. I knew of her by reading the book Scars and Stripes[1], a family biography written by her son, a gifted writer and pastor. It is the story of a family’s struggle in the rugged coal mining sections of Kentucky and West Virginia and their survival from the hands of an alcoholic … Continue reading →

Manna and Coffee is One Year Old!

Good morning friends.  We would like to take this day to thank the Lord for His work through mannaandcoffee this past year.  It has been truly amazing to see how God has brought together faithful writers, musicians and readers from around the world to enable this labor of love.  We would love to hear from … Continue reading →

Lifeboat (by D.A. Cobb)

When our children were young we took a family trip to Florida and the beautiful beaches caressing the shores of the scenic panhandle. The occasion was the popular week long spring break and nearly the entire town headed out for distant and relaxing vacations. We had reservations at a newly built condominium with our seventh … Continue reading →

Mountain Cross (by D.A. Cobb)

It was powerfully dark. We had just driven down the mountain from our future retirement home nestled three thousand feet above on the southern slope of the Blue Ridge Mountains.  After saying goodnight to the security guard I turned onto State Route 11 and headed for Greenville and a good night’s rest. We had driven … Continue reading →

Tangled (by D.A. Cobb)

One of my favorite pastimes is fishing. I’m not one for the adventure of throwing a lure into the ocean nor do I favor angling in distant and remote places. Rather, I prefer resting on the bank of a local pond, close to and within walking distance from home, meditating on life and dreaming of … Continue reading →

Stop Sign (by D.A. Cobb)

One of the windows in my study overlooks the main entrance into my neighborhood. A few months ago the developers installed a stop sign at the intersection and guess what? Hardly anybody stops! Some coast by, others roll through while most don’t even bother to slow down. It is called habit and is a dangerous … Continue reading →

Spiritual Detox (by Rebecca Albrecht)

God removes our strengths within ourselves.  God knows what it takes for us to let Him in our hearts and to work through us. We are on the throne, and not God, WHEN we boast of our ability and think we know what needs to be done and we can do it!  OUCH….pride, self-sufficiency, rebellion, stubbornness, … Continue reading →

No Strings Attached (by Becky Rommel)

Good Morning!!! I think that God spoke to me at the McDonald’s drive thru today. Sometimes I hear the Holy Spirit tell me to pay for the driver behind me. I just want to bless that person. So today I paid for my order and the person’s behind me and drove to the next window to … Continue reading →

Full Circle (by D.A. Cobb)

I remember, as if it were yesterday, my time as a young father and the variety of ways I used to get my children moving and into the car.  Whether we were leaving for church, an athletic event or any one of the many family outings it was often three against one. When I finally … Continue reading →

This Beautiful Place (by Ricky Maye)

We all have reasons to give up, life tends to seem unbearable at times. Purpose and fulfillment have those moments where they seem scarcely unattainable. We all have those moments when we just want to walk away from everything. Jesus is our prime example and on occasions we see him walking away from his current … Continue reading →

His Beloved (by Jen Duffy Ruzicka)

“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds,because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” – James 1:2-4. I find this scripture comforting when I am facing a trial. … Continue reading →

Be Nice (by D.A. Cobb)

I saw a wonderful bumper sticker the other day. It read, “be nice.” What a simple, pleasant and gentle message. This world needs more reminders like this to understand our softer and kinder side. Whenever I hear a person say “nice” I think of words like pleasing, agreeable and patient. What about “I had a … Continue reading →