Praise the LORD!!!
FAITH, we all should know the Bible's interpretation of it! Hebrews 11:1. But truly, how do we exhibit it in our daily lives, is the question that should concern us the most. For it is through our faith in GOD and HIS promises to us, that the world around us sees JESUS within us!!!
"Faith is not a once-done act, but a continuous gaze of the heart at the Triune God." (A. W. Tozer) Do we reveal our faith in our daily walk? Is it our concrete belief in GOD and HIS providence in our lives that is revealed through our actions and words?
As some of you may know, if you attend to my writings and post, that within several days, I may be homeless. Now, it's not because I've not been working that this is about to happen. Because I've spent most of the last month helping people with work that others had left unfinished or messed up. Part of the ministry's works are to assist people, such as these, and this is what I've been doing.
Many people in my position would be scrambling to the pawn shops or part time work to gain the money needed to meet their bills. They'd be worrying every spare moment, about those things that the future holds for them. Not me! I've faith, faith in the fact that GOD is who HE says HE is, and will fulfill all of HIS promises, just as written in scripture. I've personally been walking in the LORD for over sixteen years, much of which has been a constant living from day to day. Not being dependent on that which I could do to meet my needs. No, that of living and counting on the ultimate power of GOD to do just as HE's states, so many times within scripture.
I know GOD well enough, from all of this, that I know that no matter what happens, it will work out to bring glory to the precious name of JESUS, one way or another:))) (Romans 8:28) GOD has anointed me to this ministry and if I end up in several days, headed up the roadside with backpack and a wagon, so be it. I know that where my steps will be leading me, will come about to HIS glory. Where would I most likely head? Since I spent much time warning people of the recent storms, it'd most likely be to one of those areas destroyed by tornadoes. A place where people are in need, great need. Relief from their suffering, either through the works of my hands or the words of my mouth. This is putting ones faith into action for all to see. Not to see the glory of a man, but to see just what one man can accomplish when they've true faith in the one that has changed their lives totally. JESUS!!!
Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!! Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org GOD bless and good day, Rev. Marshall Barth Vine of CHRIST Ministries Vine Ministerial Network International
Showing posts with label disaster relief. Show all posts
Showing posts with label disaster relief. Show all posts
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 15, 2011
A new creation
Praise the LORD!!!
First off this morning, I want to thank the LORD for blessing me with another day, another day which I pray will be blessed with glorifying HIS most precious name.
As many of you know, or should know by now, I wasn't a very nice person. Self centered, egotistical and fool-mouthed to mention but a few. Since the LORD convicted my heart and opened my eyes to my need for a personal SAVIOR, there's been a dramatic change.
2 Corinthians 5:17
" Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
You may ask what kind of changes have taken place. To keep things as brief as possible, for this blog, the greatest of these has to be my level of compassion. Now this change is one that takes a deep inward change and not one that a person can do on their own. Many have tried and failed to change along these lines, for it is deeply seated in a person's character. Not something we can do without the help of the LORD. Truthfully, it's mostly done by HIM alone!!!
Before JESUS, I was one that could watch a person suffer tragedy and laugh at the experience. Now, I'm not talking about minor accidents, but major ones that totally trash a person's spirit and life. I'd be totally unaffected by even the worst cases. Having a 'survivalist' nature, I was sure in my own ability to be able to handle the same events. There was no concern at all for what they were feeling, whether physically, mentally or emotionally. I saw the events as means to learn from, both for myself and them. An if they didn't learn from them, "Oh well, that was their problem."
The change: now I go into immediate prayer upon hearing of a person's untimely events. I long to be able to reach out to every single one of them, in some physical manor. I'm sitting here this morning, torn up inside because of the recent news of the tornadoes that ravished sections of Oklahoma and Arkansas last night and this morning. Almost to the point of anger.
Most of you know I've a ministry, with a branch in disaster relief and I'm not going to promote it here. For this isn't the reason for this blog. The reason, is to get you thinking! Thinking, about the changes the LORD has effected within your life. What are the fruits that have been revealed through these changes and the actions you're taking to reveal these changes even more so! With our walks being that which others see of our relationship with JESUS, it is imparitive that these changes can be seen in everything we do. Every aspect of our lives is under the microscope of the world and they're examining them intently. They've either conviction taking place within their hearts and wanting to make the decision to be with JESUS. Or, they're trying to pick out every flaw they can find in us, to disprove the truths of the GOSPEL. Either way, the 'regenerated' life in CHRIST that flows through your veins, is a supreme proof, that JESUS is WHO HE is claimed to be in the Bible and our lives!!!
If you'd like to know more of the changes that have taken place within my life since JESUS took over control and the type of person I was before, you can read my book (online or downloadable) at: http://vineofchrist.org/outofthelight.aspx You can also check out what the LORD has me working on for HIM, by following the ministry's link below. It's not the best of web sites, because I'm no programmer or graphic artist and have very limited funds, but it will give you an idea of what the LORD has done with this worthless piece of flesh since regenerating it:)))
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
First off this morning, I want to thank the LORD for blessing me with another day, another day which I pray will be blessed with glorifying HIS most precious name.
As many of you know, or should know by now, I wasn't a very nice person. Self centered, egotistical and fool-mouthed to mention but a few. Since the LORD convicted my heart and opened my eyes to my need for a personal SAVIOR, there's been a dramatic change.
2 Corinthians 5:17
" Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
You may ask what kind of changes have taken place. To keep things as brief as possible, for this blog, the greatest of these has to be my level of compassion. Now this change is one that takes a deep inward change and not one that a person can do on their own. Many have tried and failed to change along these lines, for it is deeply seated in a person's character. Not something we can do without the help of the LORD. Truthfully, it's mostly done by HIM alone!!!
Before JESUS, I was one that could watch a person suffer tragedy and laugh at the experience. Now, I'm not talking about minor accidents, but major ones that totally trash a person's spirit and life. I'd be totally unaffected by even the worst cases. Having a 'survivalist' nature, I was sure in my own ability to be able to handle the same events. There was no concern at all for what they were feeling, whether physically, mentally or emotionally. I saw the events as means to learn from, both for myself and them. An if they didn't learn from them, "Oh well, that was their problem."
The change: now I go into immediate prayer upon hearing of a person's untimely events. I long to be able to reach out to every single one of them, in some physical manor. I'm sitting here this morning, torn up inside because of the recent news of the tornadoes that ravished sections of Oklahoma and Arkansas last night and this morning. Almost to the point of anger.
Most of you know I've a ministry, with a branch in disaster relief and I'm not going to promote it here. For this isn't the reason for this blog. The reason, is to get you thinking! Thinking, about the changes the LORD has effected within your life. What are the fruits that have been revealed through these changes and the actions you're taking to reveal these changes even more so! With our walks being that which others see of our relationship with JESUS, it is imparitive that these changes can be seen in everything we do. Every aspect of our lives is under the microscope of the world and they're examining them intently. They've either conviction taking place within their hearts and wanting to make the decision to be with JESUS. Or, they're trying to pick out every flaw they can find in us, to disprove the truths of the GOSPEL. Either way, the 'regenerated' life in CHRIST that flows through your veins, is a supreme proof, that JESUS is WHO HE is claimed to be in the Bible and our lives!!!
If you'd like to know more of the changes that have taken place within my life since JESUS took over control and the type of person I was before, you can read my book (online or downloadable) at: http://vineofchrist.org/outofthelight.aspx You can also check out what the LORD has me working on for HIM, by following the ministry's link below. It's not the best of web sites, because I'm no programmer or graphic artist and have very limited funds, but it will give you an idea of what the LORD has done with this worthless piece of flesh since regenerating it:)))
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Thursday, April 15, 2010
4.16.10_James 2:15,16_Outreach
Praise the LORD!!!
James 2:15,16
15 "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?" (KJV)
Though this installment came about in a differing way then usual, it is one that I've learned to follow. Many times while I'm doing something, I'll have something deeply impressed upon my being. Whether by a vocal source, vision, or just an impression, there is no mistaking their source, for it is of GOD and bears directly upon scripture as a source and fulfillment. I was going about searching for information pertaining to a job I'm arranging for the ministry and during this was led to go to my Bible program. I then typed in what I was lead to and this verse came up and the LORD began to expound it to me. So as usual, you'll be getting the results of the LORD's leading and teaching me or whatever HE plans for it.
Many times when we do works for the LORD, we'll be taking care of other people's lives in some manor. We'll be assisting them in some way, shape or form to better their lives and hopefully draw them closer to the LORD in the end. Our preforming works as a witness to the love of the LORD for others is basically what most call 'outreach.' The going outside of ourselves or our churches and reaching other people. Thus the familiar word, to most Christians that is, of outreach. Though this was termed under the heading of hospitality in earlier eras. The taking care of others, for the direct purpose of bringing them into a saving knowledge of CHRIST and HIS love for them. Or even before CHRIST, hospitality was a very central aspect of the Hebrew lifestyle and a major way of showing GOD's love for mankind to all others, even those outside of their religion.
We all know, or we should, that as Christians it is our job to reach out to all those around us and provide a helping hand when needed! We see this happening whenever there is a major disaster or emergency anywhere around the world. Just as with the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile as of the last several months. There would of been a major outcry if people would of mentioned the fact that they had prayed for these people and that was all that was needed, for GOD would take care of the rest of their problems. You can bet that if something like this had been done by any nation, religious group, or non profit, that there would be a media blitz that would of buried them. Any group that would of done something like this would cease to exist.
But there is a major problem in this world of ours. That is the fact that if it isn't a major news worthy topic, such as these earthquakes, and doesn't break headline news, this practice would be accepted and basically go unnoticed by almost everyone. Now notice, I said almost here and this is the biggest problem for those that want to practice this method. GOD has seen it and I can pretty well say that HE'd not be to happy with those doing such! Most people would agree with this. It is something that is totally outside of the Christian realm of operations, well, at least is supposed to be. This is the problem and it seems to be a major one at that, or I don't think I'd be writing about it in the first place!
How many times have any of us heard of a tragic event and told the person that we would pray for them over the matter. Now how many times did we pray and then leave it at that? This is where the problem is. Too often, when we can do something, even if it's to the slightest degree, we don't. We pray and place the matter in the LORD's hands and that is that, when there is so much more that we can do about it. Now I said "so much more" and in a way even doing the littlest amount that we can, is "much" more then just putting our prayers into action. It seems like the Christian world has become complacent to be but prayer warriors on their knees and not warriors with hands that get a little dirty now and then. I hate to tell of all the times that while I was on the gulf coast, that I saw Christian groups start out with prayer, which is a must, do a little work and then pack up and leave. I've seen Christians standing by and watch, as another man strain and struggle with something, while they're a distance off just watching it. Never going over to assist.
Now I myself have been witness to this firsthand, myself being the straining man. When I first started the ministry, I sent out pleas for assistance of any kind, and yes this is still happening, and I only had one ministry respond by any way other then that of offering their prayers. Now, I'm going to tell you that I didn't plan on this getting to this point, but the LORD wants it uncovered. Like with my first walk from Ohio to Texas and the results of it, so to this continues to this day. I've had people say they're going to assist the ministry, yet nothings been done to date. I've had thousands of prayers sent heaven ward, yet not one person has listened to that still quiet voice inside and put motion into action! I can accept this, I really don't care if the ministry ever does anything greater then the works of my own hands. Because I know that I'm doing as led by the LORD, I'm being obedient and this means that I'm in right standings with GOD! If all this ministry ever does, is show that the faith of others is weak and worthless to the LORD, so be it, because this will of been HIS will for it. But I can't imagine HIM doing this though, but anything is possible with GOD, I've come to find this out. GOD has invested hundreds of miracles in my life and to use them all to show that which is lacking within the hearts of so many, doesn't seem feasible to me. GOD usually doesn't expend that much time in a person to use them only to minor purposes. All I can say though is, "may HIS will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!!!"
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
My other blog, "Blogs from the Vine"
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
James 2:15,16
15 "If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, 16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?" (KJV)
Though this installment came about in a differing way then usual, it is one that I've learned to follow. Many times while I'm doing something, I'll have something deeply impressed upon my being. Whether by a vocal source, vision, or just an impression, there is no mistaking their source, for it is of GOD and bears directly upon scripture as a source and fulfillment. I was going about searching for information pertaining to a job I'm arranging for the ministry and during this was led to go to my Bible program. I then typed in what I was lead to and this verse came up and the LORD began to expound it to me. So as usual, you'll be getting the results of the LORD's leading and teaching me or whatever HE plans for it.
Many times when we do works for the LORD, we'll be taking care of other people's lives in some manor. We'll be assisting them in some way, shape or form to better their lives and hopefully draw them closer to the LORD in the end. Our preforming works as a witness to the love of the LORD for others is basically what most call 'outreach.' The going outside of ourselves or our churches and reaching other people. Thus the familiar word, to most Christians that is, of outreach. Though this was termed under the heading of hospitality in earlier eras. The taking care of others, for the direct purpose of bringing them into a saving knowledge of CHRIST and HIS love for them. Or even before CHRIST, hospitality was a very central aspect of the Hebrew lifestyle and a major way of showing GOD's love for mankind to all others, even those outside of their religion.
We all know, or we should, that as Christians it is our job to reach out to all those around us and provide a helping hand when needed! We see this happening whenever there is a major disaster or emergency anywhere around the world. Just as with the earthquakes in Haiti and Chile as of the last several months. There would of been a major outcry if people would of mentioned the fact that they had prayed for these people and that was all that was needed, for GOD would take care of the rest of their problems. You can bet that if something like this had been done by any nation, religious group, or non profit, that there would be a media blitz that would of buried them. Any group that would of done something like this would cease to exist.
But there is a major problem in this world of ours. That is the fact that if it isn't a major news worthy topic, such as these earthquakes, and doesn't break headline news, this practice would be accepted and basically go unnoticed by almost everyone. Now notice, I said almost here and this is the biggest problem for those that want to practice this method. GOD has seen it and I can pretty well say that HE'd not be to happy with those doing such! Most people would agree with this. It is something that is totally outside of the Christian realm of operations, well, at least is supposed to be. This is the problem and it seems to be a major one at that, or I don't think I'd be writing about it in the first place!
How many times have any of us heard of a tragic event and told the person that we would pray for them over the matter. Now how many times did we pray and then leave it at that? This is where the problem is. Too often, when we can do something, even if it's to the slightest degree, we don't. We pray and place the matter in the LORD's hands and that is that, when there is so much more that we can do about it. Now I said "so much more" and in a way even doing the littlest amount that we can, is "much" more then just putting our prayers into action. It seems like the Christian world has become complacent to be but prayer warriors on their knees and not warriors with hands that get a little dirty now and then. I hate to tell of all the times that while I was on the gulf coast, that I saw Christian groups start out with prayer, which is a must, do a little work and then pack up and leave. I've seen Christians standing by and watch, as another man strain and struggle with something, while they're a distance off just watching it. Never going over to assist.
Now I myself have been witness to this firsthand, myself being the straining man. When I first started the ministry, I sent out pleas for assistance of any kind, and yes this is still happening, and I only had one ministry respond by any way other then that of offering their prayers. Now, I'm going to tell you that I didn't plan on this getting to this point, but the LORD wants it uncovered. Like with my first walk from Ohio to Texas and the results of it, so to this continues to this day. I've had people say they're going to assist the ministry, yet nothings been done to date. I've had thousands of prayers sent heaven ward, yet not one person has listened to that still quiet voice inside and put motion into action! I can accept this, I really don't care if the ministry ever does anything greater then the works of my own hands. Because I know that I'm doing as led by the LORD, I'm being obedient and this means that I'm in right standings with GOD! If all this ministry ever does, is show that the faith of others is weak and worthless to the LORD, so be it, because this will of been HIS will for it. But I can't imagine HIM doing this though, but anything is possible with GOD, I've come to find this out. GOD has invested hundreds of miracles in my life and to use them all to show that which is lacking within the hearts of so many, doesn't seem feasible to me. GOD usually doesn't expend that much time in a person to use them only to minor purposes. All I can say though is, "may HIS will be done, on earth as it is in heaven!!!"
Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org
My other blog, "Blogs from the Vine"
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
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