Lessons for such a time as this:

Praise the LORD!!!
   A little twist in the normal posting of "Lessons for such a time as this." Bringing it here to reach an extended audience(I guess, just doing as led :{))) ) "Reftagger" is functional here, so it's possible that you can mouse-over to expand references!?!
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Lessons for such a time as this:

Christian Activity(Application of scriptures)

Many statements in Scripture indicate that the Bible is given to us for more than satisfying our curiosity about what God is like, what He has done in the past, or what He will do in the future. Its intended impact on lives is seen in that the Bible convicts (Heb. 4:12–13), regenerates (2 Tim. 3:15; 1 Peter 1:23), nurtures (2:2), cleanses (Ps. 119:9; John 15:3; 17:17; Eph. 5:25–26), counsels and guides (Ps. 119:24, 105), prevents sin (v. 11), renews (vv. 50, 93, 107, 149, 154, 156), strengthens (v. 28), sustains (vv. 116, 175), gives wisdom (vv. 98, 130, 169), and delivers (v. 170).

The Scriptures are called a fire, to consume false teaching (Jer. 23:29); a hammer, to shatter people’s hard hearts (v. 29); food, to sustain one’s soul (Ps. 119:103; Jer. 15:16; 1 Cor. 3:2; Heb. 5:13–14; 1 Peter 2:2); a light, to guide our paths (Ps. 119:105); and a sword, for offense against Satan (Eph. 6:17; cf. Luke 4:4, 8, 12). In Psalm 119 the psalmist used many verbs to speak of his response to God’s Word: walk according to, keep, obey, follow, trust in, seek out, delight in, meditate on, consider, rejoice in, see, understand, hope in, teach, speak of, remember, not forget, not forsake, not depart from, not stray from, not turn from, believe in, consider, long for, love, stand in awe of, tremble at, sing of, and choose.

Having been born again by the Word of God (1 Peter 1:23), believers are to grow in the Lord by the same means—God’s Word (2:2). In application, then, we are concerned about relating the Bible to life today. This involves seeing how the Bible, written to initial audiences thousands of years ago, relates to audiences today—and how we should respond to it. Do the Scriptures have relevance for today, and if so how is that relevance determined? What is the significance of the Bible to us? How do we determine how we should respond?

- from: Campbell, D. K. (1991). Foreword. In C. Bubeck Sr. (Ed.), Basic Bible Interpretation: A Practical Guide to Discovering Biblical Truth (pp. 280–281). Colorado Springs, CO: David C. Cook.
- via Logos 6

#lessonsforsuchatimeasthis #christjesus #theword #studyscripture #god #biblestudy #bible #jesus #faith #dailydevotions #devotional   #holyspirit  #bookexcerpts  #vineofchristministries



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

Breaking the mold

Praise the LORD!!!

"But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light." (1 Peter 2:9; NIV)

"Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation.’" (Exodus 19:5,6; NIV)

"Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works." (Titus 2:14; AV)

Breaking the mold ??? GOD has called forth HIS people to be peculiar!!!

• pe·cu·liar
• [ pi kyóolyər ]
unusual: unusual, strange, or unconventional

1. unique: belonging exclusively to or identified distinctly with somebody or something

synonyms: odd · strange · weird · unusual · irregular · abnormal · uncharacteristic

Why then, are we all standing around in the same light cast for us by the world and unfortunately, the church itself???

For the best part of the last forty years, ministries have been telling us that we've got to focus upon making ourselves look and preform just like them and the world. Striving to stand out, yet only following after the very same mold they've been set in. A "mold" that is almost exactly that as the "mold" that the world uses to bring note to itself !!! 

You, know what I mean. That, "we've got to have the biggest and the best, to make people come through our doors," or "we've got to act this way or that, to blend in with them, making them feel acceptable in our pews." 

There is no "standing out, because we're different," or "standing out, because we don't accept your ways or beliefs." It's, "smooth over the rough spots," "sweeten our words, so we don't offend anyone." Are any of these, those "PECULIAR" ways that the LORD has called us out to be???


Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

The Miracles of JESUS

Miracles of JESUS
________

The Healing Miracles
________

Man with Leprosy:                     Matt. 8:2-4           Mark 1:40-42        Luke 5:12-13
Roman centurion's servant          Matt. 8:5-13                                       Luke 7:1-10
Peter's mother-in-law                 Matt. 8:14-15       Mark 1:30-31        Luke 4:38-39
Two men from Gadara               Matt. 8:28-34       Mark 5:1-15          Luke 8:27-35
Paralyzed man                            Matt. 9:2-7          Mark 2:3-12           Luke 5:18-25
Woman with bleeding                 Matt. 9:20-22      Mark 5:25-29         Luke 8:43-48
Two blind men                           Matt. 9:27-31
Mute, demon possessed man      Matt. 9:32-33
Man with shriveled hand             Matt. 12:10-13     Mark 3:1-5            Luke 6:6-10
Blind, mute, demon-possessed man Matt. 12:22                                    Luke 11:14
Canaanite woman's daughter       Matt. 15:21-28     Mark 7:24-30
Boy with a demon                      Matt. 17:14-18      Mark 9:17-29        Luke 9:38-43
Two blind men(including Bartimaeus) Matt. 20:29-34   Mark 10:46-52  Luke 18:35-43
Deaf mute                                                               Mark 7:31-37
Possessed man in synagogue                                   Mark 1:23-26         Luke 4:33-35
Blind man at Bethsaida                                            Mark 8:22-26
Crippled woman                                                                                    Luke 13:11-13
Man with dropsy                                                                                    Luke 14:1-4
Ten men with leprosy                                                                              Luke 17:11-19
The high priest's servant                                                                          Luke 22:50-51
Official's son at Capernaum                                                                                                 John 4:46-54
Sick man at pool of Bethesda                                                                                              John 5:1-9
Man born blind                                                                                                                   John 9:1-7

Miracles Showing Power over Nature
__________
      
Calming the storm                 Matt. 8:23-27          Mark 4:37-41          Luke 8:22-25
Walking on the water            Matt. 14:25              Mark 6:48-51                                         John 6:19-21
Feeding of the 5,000             Matt. 14:15-21        Mark 6:35-44          Luke 9:12-17           John 6:6-13
Feeding of the 4,000             Matt 15:3-38           Mark 8:1-9
Coin in fish                            Matt. 17:24-27
Fig tree withered                   Matt. 21:18-22        Mark 11:12-14, 20-25
Large catch of fish                                                                                 Luke 5:4-11
Water turned to wine                                                                                                             John 2:1-11
Another large catch of fish                                                                                                      John 21:1-11

Miracles of Raising the Dead
__________

Jairus's daughter                    Matt. 9:18-19, 23-25    Mark 5:22-24, 38-42   Luke 8:41-42, 49-56
Widow's son at Nain                                                                              Luke 7:11-15
Lazarus                                                                                                                                  John 11:1-44


Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Yes, it is

Praise the LORD!!!

   Yes, it is!?! Yes, our churches are full of hypocrites. Backbiters, gossips, thieves, liars, the sexually immoral, adulterers and the list can go on and on. For where else should you find those whom are sick and seeking healing???

   Surely it is the truth, that many of these, think they're already healed. Not realizing that they truly are only in remission, waiting around, only to take their dying breathes. But yes, they're there, in the only place where true healing can begin.

   Not a building with four walls, but amongst a BODY of believers that realize there is but one source of healing for their sicknesses.

   Sin, that reached sickness. That makes one think they're healthy. Not in need of anything. Rich, yet poor by all means. Slowly passing away from starvation, though their tables are set with the finest of foods. Having all sorts of the finest pleasures to keep them occupied, yet wasting away with loneliness.

   Where else will you find all those that are having their hearts stirred, their bodies torn, their minds running rampant with thoughts and desires of all that they truly need??? In the presence of the only ONE that can, and will, heal them of all their worries. The "GREAT PHYSICIAN," lingers in the midst of all these. HE seeks to heal all, yet holds HIS hands back from healing them, until they've been fully convicted of their great needs. Prepared fully to receive that which is free, yet comes with a great price.

   The cost. It is nothing, yet it is everything. For one to receive these needed gifts, they must be willing, willing to forsake all. Forsake all that they hold dear. Forsake all that they've learned to believe is of need to survive. To forsake all that their futures may hold.

   Oh, to but touch the fringe of HIS garment and I shall be made whole. One glance from HIS loving eyes. One touch of HIS gracious hands.

   Can you??? Or will you??? Forsake all and follow HIM !!!!!!!


Seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!! Talley the cost and listen to HS voice, calling out to you. The choice is yours alone!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Weary, war worn, but not defeated

Praise the LORD!!!
    Doing that which I'd of least thought of doing, especially with just beginning on the road to recovery after nearly two weeks of fighting physical oppression by the flue. Blogging. Writing a devotional(?.) Hard to believe, considering it's been nearly a half year since the last time, but the LORD has HIS ways. Ways, we can seldom completely grasp.

   We are living in a day and age unlike any before. Not only because we're closer than ever to the LORD's return, but because we're in an age where fewer and fewer Christians read the Bible for themselves!!! I'm not talking about searching up a scripture or two while reading a post online, but the serious reading(and study) typical of the saints of old. Whom may of spent hours, days or weeks on the study of one verse alone.

   Sure, we've many that are reading their Bibles completely thru in a year, maybe more than at any time ever before. This due to the fact that we've many more "understandable" versions to choose from. Plus many programs and websites which are set up to render this possible. This though, isn't that which I'm speaking of. I'm talking about those which have such an overwhelming hunger for the WORD, that they just can't get enough!!! Those that feel as if they can't exist a moment longer, if they don't savor the richness of GOD's WORD. Those that feel it's the very "Bread of LIFE" upon which they exist.

   You may be wondering what this has to do with the title, "Weary, war worn, but not defeated"? Well, that's simple. For there are many, whom for years have been urging others to get down and get serious about reading and studying their Bibles for themselves. Not, the reading of some author, or preacher, but the Bible itself. Now, I'm not discounting the value of reading that written by other Christians, for I do a great deal of this myself and have grown due to it. I'm talking about sitting down, praying for the HOLY SPIRIT's guidance and digging deeply into the WORD alone. Open minded, not thinking about "what" Brother or Sister so and so(or self) said and/or believes. Or what this or that group happens to say, but truly open mindedly listening to the HOLY SPIRIT !!! One can only state this so many times, before it begins to wear on them. Before they begin to show signs of wear and tear. Before they begin to get disgruntled and want to give in and cease their efforts. After all, we're only human and have our limits :{)))

    Alas though, we wage not this battle alone (2 Cor. 10:3-6), and our weapons are not of this world. We're dressed for these battles(Eph. 6:12-18.) and it isn't under our powers or understandings(Proverbs 3:5,6; Phil. 4:13) in which we carry on these battles. It is by continually visiting the well of refreshing(John 6:35; 2 Cor. 12:9,10) even when at our weakest. It is CHRIST JESUS, the LIVING WORD to WHOM we go and depend.

   Truthfully, I don't know what we have here??? :{))) Whether it's a blog??? A devotional??? Or what??? I do know but one thing. "I did, as led," and where it goes from here, is in the LORD's hands!!! GOD bless y'all and good day !!!



Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Caring and Sharing...

Praise the LORD!!!

   Happy Valentine's Day <3 p="">
Caring and sharing, this could be a deep talk, but it'll not be. For I'd like to give you a little example that just happened to me.

Several days ago, my friend, the one that is allowing me to live in her garage, and I were talking about Mardi Gras. Well I mentioned that one of my favorite things about it were "King Cakes." I've a deep fondness for them and the traditions mean nothing, just the cake :{)))

She'd been away for several days visiting some friends and last night when I got home there was a King cake sitting in my computer chair. Later when she got back in we talked about it. It appears that she had looked around town and was unable to find one. But while on her trip out of town, she had stopped to get a "welcome gift" for her visit and found the only two left in the store. She kept one for her return and they enjoyed the other at their gathering. When she arrived home, she delivered it to my chair.

Folks, here is a dear Christian sister, that went greatly out of her way to share the love of CHRIST with another. Isn't this kind of act exactly what following our LORD and SAVIOR is all about. Going that extra mile to reveal the love of CHRIST for all of mankind!?!


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

Blowing your own trumpet

Praise the LORD!!!

   Good morning and I can see from the fact that you're reading this, that GOD has blessed you with another day :{)))
   Those of you that follow me through my many post, know that I currently homeless and working but part time while living out of a friends garage. Yesterday was one of the days I was blessed to work, the first in three weeks. After receiving our checks the boss proceeded to run the three of us home.

   At the first drop off, the boss pipes in about my co-worker(the one getting out) not having any gas service due to the need to repair the lines and "what would it cost to repair." After a short conversation the statement was made "that I'll help get this done, at the beginning of the week and we'll make arrangements on paying it back." Now I want you to keep in mind that my boss is a "Christian."

   As we continued on the boss began asking my other co-worker about the fact that he too was without gas service and that they too could make the arrangements to remedy this problem. The conversation then turned, not to my homelessness(as you might think), but to his(the boss) having helped another, by loaning him some money to fix his car and never having received repayment or the man's car getting fixed.

   Now it is when the conversation turned my way. Not in an offer of any sort, but as to the conditions in which I'm living and how they could be so much worse.Now this went on for about the next five minutes and never once came to an offer of any kind, so as I was getting out of the truck I asked if he had $20 I could borrow until my check cleared(3 business days). He only had ten on him and I accepted it and told him that I remind him of it. This because of the fact, that my little check was basically already spent on bills that would be covered by the bank.

   Here is the point of this all. It is scripturally improper for a Christian to blow the trumpets when doing their works for the LORD!!! For in doing so, it is here that they'll receive their rewards and it likens them unto the pagans, that give only to receive back in return. We see and hear from all sorts of secular charity groups of the "good works" that they do and usually this is attached to another plea for money. Christians are supposed to give freely, because it was it this very manor in which our LORD gave and we are to reflected HIS image within and through our lives!!!

   Has the BODY become so like the world, that it has to be glorified by the works that it does in love??? Do Christians give, only so they can receive back in likeness or greater??? As you know I've the ministry and it pains me to think that so many "CHRIST-like" people won't donate(and haven't in 12+ yrs.) because the ministry isn't 501.3.c rated and they'll not receive a tax credit!!! I've come to the decision that the ministry will never be rated in this manor, for IT will not succumb to government regulations as to "what we can say" or "against what we can stand against(sins rampant in society today.) As a Christian, I see it as my duty to abide by the LORD's teachings over any that government or any group wants to condone!!! Sure I've told of some of the things done over the years, but these weren't in depth stories or videos focused on getting your donations. They were done to let others see what it is that the ministry does and that alone. Many know that I don't even desire "thanks" for those things that I do, for I see it as having received my rewards already and here is not where I seek to do so.

   My questions to you at this time are, "Where do you want your "rewards" to be given???" and "Just "who" is it that you seek to glorify, self or GOD???" This isn't meant to blow any trumpets, but to silence those of the BODY!!!


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

A New Year, but only a new day

 Praise the LORD!!!
   We're blessed with the beginning of a new year, but truly it is only that day to which we're blessed. For every year is made up of single days. Each uniting to form that which eventually becomes a whole year. Much like the foundation for any building, that which we build today, is only as strong as that which was laid the day before.

   Form your foundation on the ROCK, firm and steady, never changing. Then with each successive day, build that which is new and meant to uphold that which is to come. You will be blessed, if building in this way, to surely know that which you've labored so hard at will stand the test of time. Let CHRIST JESUS be the foundation you build this day's structure upon. It is then, and only then, that you'll be blessed to know, that no matter what storms may come, your structure shall stand strong a midst them!!!

   "On CHRIST the solid ROCK I stand, all else is sinking sand"


GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

Laying hold

Praise the LORD!!!

   With the beginning of a new year many people's minds are focused on that which lays ahead and that which is behind. When really the matter that should be our primary focus, "is that which today holds."

   We are not promised a future day, but are given this one alone and that which we do within it's confines is up to us. Will we use it to the fullest to bring glory to the LORD??? Or will we use it for self gratification and the fulfillment of our lust??? The answer is one that only you can make and is totally dependent upon your relationship with the LORD!!! Have you taken up your cross to follow HIM??? Or do you maneuver around within this world as a fleshly entity, wrapped in Christian apparel??? "Forsake all and follow me" isn't just a suggestion, but a command of our LORD. One we must strive to bring about within our lives!!!

   The year that lays behind us should be considered, but not in a way that most would think. We must consider the "points" of our walks and those thing accomplished for the glory of GOD and leave behind those things that were worldly. We must also consider those places within the last year where GOD moved within our lives. Those places where HE was either leading us to learn from HIM a better WAY, or where HE was pruning us, teaching us those things that we needed to leave behind to perish in the winds of change!!! Many are those that will want to hold onto these things, when they're truly not for us to hold, only to reflect upon and learn the lessons of the LORD from within them.

   Let us each lay hold of this day, live it to the fullest. Living it to the glory of the LORD and praying that if we do well with this task at hand, HE may well bless us with more days ahead to repeat this task!!!  GOD has set a path before us. HE has placed people in our way, people we should interact with and lead towards the proper paths for their own lives. We can not carry them along with us, but they must make their own choices. The choices they make are dependent upon that which you do to guide them, but ultimately it rest in the hands of the LORD. HE is the one that has directed your paths to cross. HE is the one that has formed each of you into that which you are and it is HE that has purpose for these interactions between your lives. So do your best to listen and react with these others. Do your best to follow your guide. Do your best to leave an impression that will continue to lead them on. This my friends is the way, we make the most of that which we've been blessed with and can look forward to days ahead, if it is HIS will !!! :{)))


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

VISIT TO THE CLINIC

Praise the LORD!!!

   The following is from an email I received and I loved it so much I just couldn't help but share it with my "family"!!! I pray you enjoy it and it moves upon your heart as it has mine!!!!!!!

It's titled, "Visit to the Clinic"


















































 ***I have no idea of who originated this, but GOD bless you for sharing it!!!***


 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Least we fall

Praise the LORD!!!

   There was the day when we were all sinners, "There is none righteous, no, not one"(Romans 3:10; KJV 1900) and this my friends, we should not forget!!! Though the LORD forgives and forgets the life of sin we've lived, let us not. For when we do there is the chance that within our hearts we will begin thinking of ourselves as better than those around us. Placing ourselves upon a pedestal above all the immoral sinners of this dying world. When it was right there at the base of that pedestal, that we too used to live.

   Pride, is the original sin, it is that which set satan up for the fall, the very one that took down Adam and Eve and has brought mankind to the need for salvation. It is the pride of man that placed JESUS upon the cross and it is one of satan's greatest tools against us!!!

   For at the moment of salvation we're broken and contrite(or we should be), we humble ourselves before the LORD in our need of HIS forgiveness. An unless humility rules within afterwards, that very pride that placed us in need of a SAVIOR can and will begin to grow, unless carefully(very carefully) watched.  A while back in one of the devotionals, Spurgeon stated "In some sense the path to heaven is very safe, but in other respects there is no road so dangerous. It is beset with difficulties. One false step (and how easy it is to take that(step), if grace be absent), and down we go." The Pharisee and Sadducee traveled a road of religious pride, much like many Christians today and it was them that JESUS condemned so richly!!! 

   During my walk to south Texas, many to which I spoke, said that it was the hypocrisy within the church that kept them from going(the number 2 reason) to church. Truly it should be plain to see that anywhere you've Christian gathered, we see pride also. We see it all the time, though we may overlook it for the most part. Maybe because it has become so ingrained within our lives and the lives of those around us that we just accept it. I don't know, but I do know, it is leading many to a fall.

   Let us each remember, and remember well, from where the LORD saved us, or we could say from "whom," for it was our own pride that took us there. Those very sinners that we tend to look down upon, are the very ones that JESUS died for. Remember, we were each there at one time ourselves!!! :{)))

GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

Forgetfulness

Praise the LORD!!!

   Most of us tend to forget that as we go through life in this world, this is not what we're to be living for!!! 

...19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rustg consume and where thieves break in and steal; 20 but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rusth consumes and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.(Matt. 6:19-21; NRSV)

   We also tend to forget at what a great personal cost most of those mentioned in the Bible dealt with. Abraham left all that his life existed of to seek after GOD's leading. Ruth, she left behind all also, to glean in the fields of a stranger. Look at the disciples and all that they left to follow CHRIST. Even Peter when he stepped out of the boat left behind much. Think about it, he left behind common sense and all the laws of nature to which he'd lived his whole life.

   The point here is, what are you willing to do(forget) in life, to obtain a full relationship with JESUS today???

Use these verses, but don't stop with them, cross reference and seek out GOD from within HIS WORD!!!  

 GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
 Vine of CHRIST Ministries

I WILL...

Praise the LORD!!!

   In my early years, before CHRIST, I destroyed many a person's life. Sure a lot of these were done with the help of others, but I personally claim responsibility for even the parts that these played. For if it were not for my part in those things that I did, or inspired, they'd of not have done them.

   Now that my life is totally JESUS' I seek to set the record straight, by serving the LORD to the best of my ability. Reaching out and spreading the GOSPEL to everyone I can, in every manor that I can. With every step that I take while on this earth, I seek another to tell of the love JESUS has for them. I seek to do this in every possible place imaginable.

   I even pray that the LORD will open the doors that my feet shall travel around the globe, enabling me to share HIS love with all those abroad. For this to happen, due to my being a convicted felon, there is the need of a 'Presidential Pardon," to wipe clean my earthly record. I began, at one time, to seek this but was put to rest by the HOLY SPIRIT. For this is not to be of my hands, but of the LORD's and I've faith that it will be done.

   The day is coming when the LORD will pour out HIS blessings upon this worthless piece of flesh that HE has redeemed and HIS ministry for me and things will never be the same. For there will be a movement of GOD upon this earth that can only be called "the latter day rains" and GOD's KINGDOM on earth and in heaven will receive all the glory !!!!!!!

 GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Torn heart-the way we are

Praise the LORD!!!

   My heart was torn when I first saw this photo, so badly that it took several hours before I was even able to think about eating. So much was going thru my head. All the things that the LORD has shown me of HIS ministry for me, that which I've been working on over the last years, to name a few. One of the greatest though, was "why in this day and age, with so many claiming to know JESUS, can this kind of thing still be happening?"

   I look at this and see a man, with good shoes on his feet, wearing good, clean clothing and carrying a bag of food in his hands. From the angle of his feet one can see that he'd just had to step around this child, having noticed him. He is walking at a fair gate, due to the fact of his long steps. Could not he of stopped for one second and given this child a handful of grain???

   I've settled down some, for it's been hours since I re-posted this and had a good nights sleep. Yet this image still haunts me!!! But an even sadder fact haunts me. The fact that having posted this on numerous sites, over 10 hours ago, not one single person (Christian, christian or not) has made a single comment!!!

   Have our hearts grown so cold and indifferent to images such as these, that we can just glance at them and them have no effects upon our hearts??? Going on with our lives, as if we'd never seen it or acknowledge that such things are happening in this world still??? What would JESUS do having seen this child in such sad shape??? Not just walk on by and I can guarantee that!!! HE didn't even want to send the crowds away after they'd been following HIM for several days!!! Let alone a child that is far from being well nourished. Truthfully folks what would JESUS do and what does HE think about the fact that we are the way we are ???????
   

GOD bless and good day,
 Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

Cliques or schisms ???

Praise the LORD!!!

   Cliques or schisms, or plainly put, divisions !!! Lately I've seen a greater amount of division in that which supposed to be the  BODY. A united assembly of believers, though maybe not totally agreeing upon every detail of our faith, but a UNITED ONE no the less.

   Last night I came across a post that may of not been worded the best, which turned into a giant flushing of a worldly toilet!!! The original intent was one of love, though discuss over erroneous methods by some within the church. But it exploded into an outpouring of that which I'd have to call trash talk. Far from anything I could of imagined of coming out of the mouths of Christians. My blood began to boil, for not only was the talk foolish, but far from anything remotely resembling "edification" of the saints!!!

   I went on the hunt, while pealing off many a prayer, hunting for the proper references for all that was coming from within my spirit. Thank GOD that at this time I was blessed to be interrupted by another saint, allowing the furor within to subside a good bit. This whole time, I'm still in prayer and decide to take a shower to "cool off." For if there is one thing that I've learned, it is always best to assault  such indiscretions, calmly, so as not to be pulled into sin oneself !!! During my shower, I calmed down and was led to not gather my weapons of warfare against the enemy within, but stepback and take a much broader assault against this problem. This is but the beginning of it!!!!!!!

   The church, religion or faith that we live amongst today, is one vastly divided. Which should be plain to see, unless one has been living in a cave. Religion upon religion, denomination upon denomination, yet supposedly believing in the one true SAVIOR, JESUS. This problem is far from new, for even within the first century there were divisions developing. From the book of ACTS onward, is full of them. Peter being swayed by the Jewish believers, Paul admonishing him. Then Paul's warnings abound as he discusses the many groups, beginning to take side, picking and choosing whom they're following the teachings of. Paul staunchly warns them, that though there are many different teachers, there is but one LORD and it is HE alone that we should follow!!!

   Now, these are just the divisions that are coming about within the true believers, let alone those that are false teachers or anti-Christ, as so aptly put. In all cases, there's but one real cause behind them, that is, pride. That self seeking sin, that has separated us from GOD since the Garden. That very sin that gives us the lord of the air, he that continues to be the accuser of the saints, satan. Who fell from grace due to an inflated ego, thinking himself better then all others, even GOD his creator.

   We are seeing a tremendous overflowing, not of the HOLY SPIRIT, but of the human spirit. That very spirit which brought about the fall from grace of mankind, PRIDE !!! No love being shown to the brethren, not even love being shown to any other, only a puffed up, self centered spirit, seeking the approval of others upon their own words. Surprising??? Not in the least, for this is but the results of our being human or carnal. A condition of mankind that we have to live with, though should not accept. Many state they've the blessing of the HOLY SPIRIT within their lives, yet the fruit of their lips reveal a heart blackened by pride. That which they believe, is 100% right and there is no chance at all of their being even slightly off in their beliefs!!! Right!!! If I remember right, there's not one of us that is perfect. For there is but one whom has walked this earth that is and let us not forget this FACT !!!!!!! There is not one religion, one denomination, one minister that walks this earth that can truthfully say they that their beliefs and teaching are perfectly in accord with JESUS' teachings. If they do, they're lying and know it. PRIDE, once again!!!

*** I'm sure there will be more to follow on this, when only the LORD knows. Get yourself away from the teaching of man and dive deeply into the WORD of GOD and nothing else. Don't be fooled by the high minded, that say scripture is hard to understand without one being a scholar, for if we're to accept JESUS and HIS teachings as a little child, would it not be fair to say, these teaching can be understood plainly by a child and not need some degree of higher learning to do so??? Sure, I've over 2000 books in my Biblical library, but when it comes to the ultimate understanding it's the Bible that rules out and not my understandings either, just as written. When told to love the brethren as myself, that is exactly what I do :)))***
  
A special note here: when we as Christian begin acting like a bunch of worldly people, acting in ways contrary to that which we preach, is there any wonder so many call us hypocrites??? THINK ABOUT IT!!!!!!!




 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

This man???

Praise the LORD!!!

    I pray all are well and in good spirits after this CHRISTmas weekend!!!

   Today's message will be about "This man." The one that is posting these comments to the greatest witnessing tool afford to mankind. Why, you may ask??? Simply because I'm led to :))) Why, fully I don't understand or even are to dig into, but have learned from many a year of 'see-sawing'(if you will). Say "what," you may be wondering, does this mean. Exactly this. A continuing going from what I believe to be the best actions within my life, to that which has been impressed upon my heart, thus to "see-saw."

   This man, as you may know(and if not, search out my testimonial book), was brought to the LORD by a complete breaking of his will, thru incarceration in the prison's of man. Totally broken to the point of absolute contrition. A crushing of my heart, that was needed, to separate the flesh, soul and spirit, into a properly ordered package. Not the package of the carnal man, but that of the spiritual man, that which has the spirit within in control and neither the flesh or soul.

   In the carnal man, the command controls are piloted by the flesh or soul, those parts of the 'tripartate' being we are. Being fully directed in our lives by either of these two, brings us into direct enmity with GOD. Seeking only those things in life that are pleasurable to the flesh and self pride, that separate us from a GODly lifestyle. We all should know the traits of these two, and if not, best get into a prayerful reading of scripture:)))

   The spiritual man though, is the one in which whose spirit has come into power, taking over the goals within our lives and turning them from self and towards GOD. A total transition from that which was and into that which GOD original planned for us to be. For this was that state of being Adam and Eve both shared in the Garden, before the fall. The will of only seeking that which was GOD's will for them. This is the state of "this man" to this day and one that is growing even stronger by the moment:)))

   Now this, the above, would make for a good day's devotional and study, but isn't that which is the purpose:))) For the purpose of this today, is the illumination of what my life truly was and is today. I'm what you could say is an example of a "1 Cor. 1:26-30 man."  A man that was dug up from the deepest depths of depravity, washed off(in the blood) and taught in ways, very uncommon for the times. Ways that haven't been instantaneous, but have taken over a decade and a half to bring about. I'm far from perfection, am nothing that can be bragged about and wouldn't if I could:))) For all that has been and will continue to be done upon this spirit, has been by the hand of GOD and it is HE alone that receives any and all of the glory.

   Though I was blessed at birth with a high intellect, through twenty six years of major drug abuse, I've burnt more brain cells than many even were blessed with. Though having read the whole Bible man a time, I've but few verses that I can consider as memorized. This again, in reflection of those 1 Cor. verses!!! Of those verses, there's not even one WORD alone, that I can not see GOD having fulfilled within me. For without HIM, I'm but worthy to adorn the sole of HIS sandals, fitting to scraped off at the first opportune moment!!!

   Unlike most of you, though knowing all my responsibilities, bills and what nots that consume much of our energies, I'm not concerned in the least about them and will only take care of them when the time(HIS time) comes and I'm directed to do so. I take each moment of my day as led and only as led!!!!!!! The past, is forgotten, tomorrow, is not my concern, but for this moment I was created and is HIS will for me to strive and complete as led.

   This is there which I'm led to leave you this day, the why's and what for's are not in my hand to bring about. I've planted the seeds that were meant to be planted and it is from here, that the LORD takes over:))) Have a blessed and prosperous day as the LORD has set forth for you. Share this, keep it and bind it to study, whatever you are led to. For nothing is in my control, for I've released those reigns and have given them over to the only one truly able to bring about HIS most sovereign will for mankind !!!

 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org

GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

A Merry CHRISTmas???

 Praise the LORD!!!

    I'd like to pass on my heart felt greeting to all my readers, that of a Merry CHRISTmas:)))

   Yet, you see the title above having question marks behind this!!! This is because the LORD has laid it upon my heart, for opening the eyes and hearts of many, to realize, there are many not so blessed. Yet some, are more highly blessed, though not in the ways of most others.

   You see, I am sitting here at my computer, alone and if not for the blessings of two others(families), would not have received a single present. But this though, doesn't bother me in the least :))) Some background first, though.

   Alone, because when I had gotten out of prison, my wife had forsaken our relationship and was living with another. Over a three year period, I tried numerous times to bring our relationship back together. Even to the point of allow her, our son and her current boyfriend to move in with me after they were evicted from their apartment. All that I did, came to no avail, for she and our boys(one stepson) refused to even begin to accept that the changes in my life were real and that JESUS was the only true source of happiness in this world. So after much prayer and listening, we departed company and I've not heard from them since '04.'

   Having been here in Kingsville for over two years, you'd think that I'd have a family of friends around me, but I do not. Why, you may ask??? Though I've gone to several churches here and have worked with my hands on several people's houses, most kind of consider me strange. They can't understand me truthfully. "How can one always be praising the LORD and for the most part having nothing???" "How can this  man constantly talk about the LORD and that which HE's done and doing within his life when there seems to be so little he has???" "How can this man say he's a world changing ministry, when it is himself alone???"

   The answer to everything above, is simple and clear, well maybe just to me. I've a faith in my LORD and SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST that surpasses all human understandings !!!!!!!



 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries

At one time...

 Praise the LORD!!!

    At one time, while I was still in the prison of man(having been set free by the LORD), someone told me that I was "too heavenly minded, to be of any earthly good." Now, I'm sure most of you have heard this little statement used at sometime or another, if not maybe you should ponder it for a few minutes(?) I, more or less scoffed at the statement, at that time, not seeing that this is a possible state within Christian's lives. Not mine though(thank GOD), for I've been blessed to be well grounded in the LORD and seek not my own will, but HIS for me!!!

   But, this state is possible within the lives of many and I will reveal cases of such here. You'll most likely be aware of those that are in this state and we must open their eyes to the truth in this matter!!! Anyone, that pays any attention to the events of the world, should have a general knowledge of this happening. For many times on the news and in other forms of media, we hear of many "miracles" being witnessed by the masses. Some of these are true miracles and many are not, for the adversary can and does use the "miraculous" to turn our eyes from the true glory of GOD and HIS purposes for us in life. These can be classed easily enough, as those that draw attention only towards and object(idol), person or place. Like the many "images" of JESUS or the Virgin Mary being found in or on many items. I don't think I need to list the many, that fit in this group.

   What do these have to do with "being heavenly minded," a great deal. For they draw our attentions away from that which we are to be doing, to bring glory to the LORD, and towards something else. The greatest miracle of all, is one many simply overlook, this is the conversion(true) of an unbeliever. For it is a direct revelation of GOD working within a person's life. The preparation of the person's heart to receive the seed of the GOSPEL. The moving of GOD upon the saint, which plants this seed and then HIS watering of it and producing a baby saint!!! A true MIRACLE by the hand of GOD!!!!!!!

   Perhaps the the greatest case of  "being heavenly minded" is one most would tend to overlook. Why??? Because people believe, due to errors in teaching and the pride of man, that it is GOD's will for us. Which it is, but not in the extent that people are concentrating upon it though and this has opened the door for satan to use, to draw people's attention away from the actual will of GOD. Let me first then, state that which is the will of GOD for us, which is truly simple, but often made complex by men wanting to do so. These are clearly stated in scripture, in the two great commandments(Matt. 22:37-40), in our loving our brothers and sisters in the faith (John 15:12), that we provide for the needs of others( Matt. 25:35,36; James 1:27) and(of coarse) to spread the GOSPEL(Matt. 28:18-20.) Sure there are a few other details in following the will of GOD in our lives, but these are an ample foundation to work from.

   Now, for the major purpose of this article, the being "too heavenly minded." There are many today in the church that are seeking after "signs and wonders." Spending all their energy and effort on seeking after these and setting aside those things that the LORD wills for us to actually accomplish for HIM while here on earth. It is not in the seeking of these that the error occurs, but it is in the forsaking of all else set before us, to seek them.(John 4:48)

   I could go forth from this, but am led to leave you with this alone. Are you seeking after all the pomp and circumstance of signs and wonders??? Or are you seeking to bring glory to the KINGDOM of GOD thru the love JESUS has poured forth for you??? Focusing only on the power of heaven in your life, is keeping you "heavenly minded" and your hands away from the true works GOD has set them about !!! Which shall it be???

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

No One Knows...

 Praise the LORD!!!

     No one knows my life better than I do. Which is a statement all of us can make, for it is the spirit within each of us that truly knows us, even better than the conscious self, soul, knows us.

   If I were to tell you, which I have stated this before, that I'm TOTALLY sold out to GOD, you may doubt the truth of this matter. I'm going to reveal here some of the facts that will back this statement up. Not just matters of words and speech, but physical matters as well.

   As you should know, since you're reading this, that I've been working on developing the LORD's ministry for me, for over twelve years now, totally alone(accept the LORD.) All of the money that has gone into it's formation and works has come from out of my own pockets. There have been donations along the lines of items deemed for donation to others, but until very recently none had donated time, efforts or funding to it. All that has been accomplished, from Springfield MO., to Kingsville, TX. have been by my hands alone. Not one has ever stepped up and said they would want to join in on this Herculean effort, and that is exactly what it is!!! A ministry that is even beyond my total comprehension, for that which I was shown of it in visions in '97' literally blows my mind!!!

   I've given up a house(2/3 paid for), my family(wayward wife and sons) and anything one might consider a normal lifestyle, to stretch every cent as far as possible to continue on in my 'carrying of this cross' for the LORD!!!

   After leaving behind everything in Springfield, MO., with plans to go on a missions trip to Haiti(which was cancelled(kidnappings in Haiti of missionaries), I rode out the right front quad of hurricane Rita in '05'. This is when the , central focus of, ministry's disaster relief branch came to full life. For the next several years, I reeked out a living and stretched every penny I could into helping those in which the storms of '05' had overturned their lives. Constantly witnessing to the life changing abilities of the LORD, in overcoming adversity. This ended up leading me to Florida, living with my sister and her husband, only hours before my mother went home to be with the LORD. For the next year and a half, I was totally separated from most of the works associated with direct connections to the ministry. Though I was still able to witness constantly and help others(with my hands) to improve their lives.

   This is when I received the leading, to totally step out of the boat. The trip to Texas, on foot, was begun. Here again, I left everything behind, including thousands of dollars worth of tools, cookware and other ministry related items. Since my arrival in Texas, every detail of my life has been in the LORD's hands. Everything I have to my name, are either donated items(from local Christians), or those I've managed to gather up thru the works of my hands(working for several local apartment complexes, or helping residence of the area.) If anyone in need were to ask me for any  of these items, I'd gladly give them. Even if someone were to want to steal them, they could have them also. For what actually are all these things, except blessings from the LORD!?! If stolen or given freely, the LORD would replace them as they are, or upgrading them to even better:)))

   Over the last two months or so, the LORD has truly blessed me with have the first ever donations, actually given forth for the ministry. At this time, I've received just under a thousand dollars worth of items, a computer and monitor and the money to upgrade this to a more proficient system to accomplish the works needed. You can believe me, I am praising the LORD for them:)))

   Though all this this I consider as nothing, for my walk, in personal relationship, with the LORD is all important. Though this grows daily, I've become tired, tired not of relationship with HIM, but in the efforts to carry this cross daily. HE has promised that HE will be assisting me in this effort and HE does, but the task ahead is great and so far the laborers few, one!!! If others don't begin taking this matter in prayer before the LORD and listening, being obedient and following HIS leading it will not disappear, but remain only as it has been, the works of a single man.

   As I said, "No one knows" this life I walk daily, no one knows the weight of this cross that I so willingly carry and no one knows these burdens that weight so heavily upon my heart for the lost and needy of this world. No one will continue to know these, until others are willing to step out of the boat(that life they think is severing the LORD) and truly step on board this Herculean effort to glorify the LORD like no other generation has ever sought to do. If you think this may be what the LORD is leading to, pray and listen for HIS answer, then get up and step out onto stormy waters, knowing JESUS will carry you onward !!!!!!!

*** any and all information about the ministry can be found on the website (and yes, I know it's not the best of sites(I'm not a web designer either:))) )) I can use every sort of help there is known to man and the LORD!!! Don't ask me if the help is needed, if led, just do it. I trust the LORD and know HE will make all things work together for the good of those that love GOD and are called according to HIS purpose:))) Is this HIS purpose for you, if you believe so what are you waiting for, just step out and DO IT:)))))))




 Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries 

??? FOCUS ???

 Praise the LORD!!!
   Good morning, and being that you're reading this, GOD has blessed you with another day of life. Something to be greatly thankful for and that which is often overlooked by many, if not most whom call themselves Christians.

   If you've not noticed, I'm the one that opens every single comment or article I make, with a PTL!!! This due to several reasons: 1. the fact that I was born with a bad heart and for twelve years, planned for open heart surgery; 2. Though I'd known GOD was real and very prevalent within my life, had run from HIM for the most part and it was thru a book on praising GOD at all times, that HE used to bring me to living a totally changed life in JESUS. In a way, this isn't that which this is about, then again, it is:)))

   Focus, what is it? Why is it important within our lives? Plus, why is the center of our focus, the most important part, especially for the Christian???

   FOCUS, is, loosely, according to Webster's Dictionary, is the point at which our attentions are concentrated upon. Or we could say, that upon which our lives are centered upon. For the Christian, this is to be JESUS/GOD!!!

   FOCUS, why is this of importance??? The intents of one's life, that which they focus their total being upon, is that which after all is said and done, describes a person and all that they do within life. Again, for the Christian, this is of a tantamount importance and it is TO BE GOD that holds this position within our lives!!!

   FOCUS, the intents and purpose, our focus, is that which guides all that we do, or seek to do in this brief existence we call life. If our focus is upon ourselves, it is ourselves that receives all the glory in the end. We see this daily in the lives of many, scientist, sports star, movie stars and politicians to name but a few. For the Christian though, that which their lives "ARE" to be focused on, is to be GOD and HIS KINGDOM and not ourselves in any way, shape or form!!!

   FOCUS: much could be written upon this topic and maybe some day will be by me, but for this time, it isn't the LORD's intents for this article. HIS intent is, that we as Christians, those that bear HIS precious name as our profession of faith in HIM, should have but one focus. That of HIS will for our lives. Not just once or several times a week, but that of every single second of it that we're blessed with!!! So my friend, where is your focus???


Prayer request can be sent to: prayers@vineofchrist.org 


GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries