Praise the LORD!!!
"Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me," (John 14:9; AV)
Yesterday, I was asked about one of the post I had made and what scripture references I could use to back it. The post: "A Thought for such a time as this:
A Christian should not settle with a level of production(for the LORD) that is the same as yesterday!!!"
At the time that I gave answer I was a bit distraught from having tried to monitor and post tornado warning to followers on this current system. As many of you know, well those that have followed the ministry for over a year or two would, this is part of the ministry's functions. Any way, back to the point of this blog :{))) My answer was in two parts, because another stepped in asking, but here are both parts:
"PTL!!! It is not GOD requires, wants or needs anything but our love, but as with any relationship lovers seek to provide the other with greater things from the heart as the relationship deepens. Would you give your wife/girlfriend a BMW one day and turn around and give them a gardening tool??? I think not. It may just be me, but as I grow closer to the LORD, I desire to do more for HIM, not because I have to, or because it will gain me one thing, but just because I love HIM !!!"
"PTL!!! I consider my relationship with GOD above all others and seek to deepen it in every way. As with any relationship, a knowledge of the other is great, but if that is where we leave off, what do we really have other than knowledge, we've no experience. Any thriving relationship must have experiences that deepen it, that bring the two parties closer together. I've had many relationship and most were very one sided, due to my pride, The LORD has blessed me by removing this hindrance and now I willing to seek a depth in our relationship deeper than any every before. HE gave HIS all for me, shouldn't I be willing to do the same in return, not being satisfied with the results of yesterday, but seeking to make today even better??? Scripturally, you'll not find this depth of relationship mentioned, to the best of my knowledge, but I'm sure it was in the hearts of many of those that have died for CHRIST while smiling at their tormentors and singing praises unto GOD!!! "
You can believe this was on my heart last night as I went to sleep and it was put to prayer. Now I can understand new believers in CHRIST having(needing) scripture "proof" to solidify their understandings, but supposedly seasoned, mature Christians!?! Have we been so long with JESUS, yet we fail to really know HIM??? To know those things we are to do. To know the manor in which we are to live our lives and reflect HIS image to others.
Now don't take me wrong here, I'm not judging these others involved here, but I'm being blessed to see the BODY as a whole here. We've lived our lives for years for CHRIST. We've supposedly read and read the Bible numerous times. Studied and studied for hours, taking in hour after hour worth of sermons and teaching tapes(disc) and books. "And yet hast thou not known me,"
______________________________
I ask, but not I, but the LORD, is your knowledge of me only within your mind, or is it within your heart??? Do you really have a loving relationship with me, or is it but a knowledge of scripture??? I want your heart, as well as your mind and body. I want all of you!!! Are you willing to give it???
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Showing posts with label love. Show all posts
Monday, February 11, 2013
Friday, April 16, 2010
04.17.10_1 Thes. 24:12,13_LOVE
Praise the LORD!!!
1 Thes. 3:12,13
12 "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
There has been a decrease in love in this old world of ours! Though you don't hear much about it from anyone, when you should. For this should be a matter upon every Christian's lips. You'll hear about the earthquakes and the growth of the New World Order and the impending end times, but not the fact that the love of mankind is growing sadly weaker. Now this is something that truly should be catching the eyes and hearts of attentive Christians. For it is a sign of the end, in itself(Matt. 24:12). Though it is one of the least thought about signs to come, it should truly be one of the most highly attuned to! Why would I say this? For one simple reason, it is with love and in love that the true Christian is to operate, or at least should operate!
We are called by CHRIST to love our fellow Christians(John 13:34,35), as well as to love our fellow man(Luke 10:30-37) and to let the world see the love HE has for us, reenacted through our actions and lives. So all that we are ,say and think should revolve around our exhibiting the love of JESUS(Col. 3:17). In our verses today, the apostle Paul is commending and encouraging the Thessalonian Christians for their living in love. For both their current state of being and for them to continue to follow through with an increasing of it. To seldom today, do we hear of many people truly loving their fellow man. Yes, we do hear the political activist raising their voices along these lines. Plus those of the fringe groups that are only seeking their own rights to love whom ever they want, whether morally right or not. But when it comes to the people of the world showing their love for all the people of mankind, there is a great and increasing gulf between what is, and what should be.
Its simple to see, without digging to deeply, that mankind is growing cold and indifferent, more self centered, with everyday that we travel through time. All one has to do is watch the evening news, or check out the internet for a while. Your eyes and ears will gather far more then they could ever desire to have. Murders, assaults, wars and the list goes on indefinitely. Is there any underlying reason for this? Plain and simply put, yes there are several.
With the increase in awareness and knowledge, man has begun to fall farther and farther away from the GOD ordained position that he is supposed to function in. Instead of our caring about our fellow man, we loath them and would prefer to be as far away from them as possible. I know we hear all the stories about how the internet is drawing people closer together then ever before. Yet, we hear of people marrying an avatar from a video game, because it doesn't disagree with them and they never have to alter their lives to adapt! Yes, you heard me right, this was in the news today(4.16.10). Would something like this take place, if people were truly showing the love of JESUS like they should be?
We have genocide taking place around the globe, under many different names and those in power do little about it. Now they say, they are working to take humanitarian action against these people doing such things, yet little seems to get done about it at all. How can this be, in a world where almost everyone says they're a humanitarian and looking out for their fellow man? Simply put, they're basically after one thing and one thing alone, self interest. Those in power, that could make the needed changes or influence those that can, don't want to do anything because it would incite others against them. Those high enough up the power chain don't do anything because it would cost them to much if they did, though its not even their money they're spending. The groups that rant and rave about the humanitarian causes do little, because if they make to much of a racket about things they'd just come up missing or their organization just shut down. Would something like this take place, if people were truly showing the love of JESUS like they should be?
We have a high unemployment rate and a large number of people homeless and many going hungry. Masses around the globe, and thousands right here in this country dieing because of a lack of something within their lives. Whether its from improper healthcare, starvation or protection from some sort of evil (crime, drugs, slavery), people's lives are lacking something, something very important to each and every human alive. That which is missing isn't just love though, it is a love that passes all understanding. A love that would go to the ends of the earth to provide one starving person with food, water and shelter. A love that would even go to the point of self sacrifice to protect one person from human trafficking or slavery. That kind of love comes but from one place my friend and that is a close personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST and nothing but this. So if you see the news today, or are cruising the internet and you read or hear some outlandish story about some tragedy around the globe. Look up and pray to JESUS to give you the strength and the courage to do something to make a change in the world. Not just for the moment, but one that will change things for a time to come, if not for an eternity!!!
Now for the main reason that these things are taking place and at a seemingly faster pace then ever before. The statement, "For it is written" should give you a clue! It is GOD ordained, and will happen. Mankind is slowly sliding farther and farther away from GOD with every beat of our hearts and bringing about the second coming of the LORD JESUS. Man is fulfilling that which was written oh so long ago and not even realizing that he is. We've been worrying about all the major world events that are showing the signs of the times, and yet it is the smallest and simplest of things that is truly showing our position in GOD's timeline of HIStory. LOVE!!!
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
1 Thes. 3:12,13
12 "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
There has been a decrease in love in this old world of ours! Though you don't hear much about it from anyone, when you should. For this should be a matter upon every Christian's lips. You'll hear about the earthquakes and the growth of the New World Order and the impending end times, but not the fact that the love of mankind is growing sadly weaker. Now this is something that truly should be catching the eyes and hearts of attentive Christians. For it is a sign of the end, in itself(Matt. 24:12). Though it is one of the least thought about signs to come, it should truly be one of the most highly attuned to! Why would I say this? For one simple reason, it is with love and in love that the true Christian is to operate, or at least should operate!
We are called by CHRIST to love our fellow Christians(John 13:34,35), as well as to love our fellow man(Luke 10:30-37) and to let the world see the love HE has for us, reenacted through our actions and lives. So all that we are ,say and think should revolve around our exhibiting the love of JESUS(Col. 3:17). In our verses today, the apostle Paul is commending and encouraging the Thessalonian Christians for their living in love. For both their current state of being and for them to continue to follow through with an increasing of it. To seldom today, do we hear of many people truly loving their fellow man. Yes, we do hear the political activist raising their voices along these lines. Plus those of the fringe groups that are only seeking their own rights to love whom ever they want, whether morally right or not. But when it comes to the people of the world showing their love for all the people of mankind, there is a great and increasing gulf between what is, and what should be.
Its simple to see, without digging to deeply, that mankind is growing cold and indifferent, more self centered, with everyday that we travel through time. All one has to do is watch the evening news, or check out the internet for a while. Your eyes and ears will gather far more then they could ever desire to have. Murders, assaults, wars and the list goes on indefinitely. Is there any underlying reason for this? Plain and simply put, yes there are several.
With the increase in awareness and knowledge, man has begun to fall farther and farther away from the GOD ordained position that he is supposed to function in. Instead of our caring about our fellow man, we loath them and would prefer to be as far away from them as possible. I know we hear all the stories about how the internet is drawing people closer together then ever before. Yet, we hear of people marrying an avatar from a video game, because it doesn't disagree with them and they never have to alter their lives to adapt! Yes, you heard me right, this was in the news today(4.16.10). Would something like this take place, if people were truly showing the love of JESUS like they should be?
We have genocide taking place around the globe, under many different names and those in power do little about it. Now they say, they are working to take humanitarian action against these people doing such things, yet little seems to get done about it at all. How can this be, in a world where almost everyone says they're a humanitarian and looking out for their fellow man? Simply put, they're basically after one thing and one thing alone, self interest. Those in power, that could make the needed changes or influence those that can, don't want to do anything because it would incite others against them. Those high enough up the power chain don't do anything because it would cost them to much if they did, though its not even their money they're spending. The groups that rant and rave about the humanitarian causes do little, because if they make to much of a racket about things they'd just come up missing or their organization just shut down. Would something like this take place, if people were truly showing the love of JESUS like they should be?
We have a high unemployment rate and a large number of people homeless and many going hungry. Masses around the globe, and thousands right here in this country dieing because of a lack of something within their lives. Whether its from improper healthcare, starvation or protection from some sort of evil (crime, drugs, slavery), people's lives are lacking something, something very important to each and every human alive. That which is missing isn't just love though, it is a love that passes all understanding. A love that would go to the ends of the earth to provide one starving person with food, water and shelter. A love that would even go to the point of self sacrifice to protect one person from human trafficking or slavery. That kind of love comes but from one place my friend and that is a close personal relationship with JESUS CHRIST and nothing but this. So if you see the news today, or are cruising the internet and you read or hear some outlandish story about some tragedy around the globe. Look up and pray to JESUS to give you the strength and the courage to do something to make a change in the world. Not just for the moment, but one that will change things for a time to come, if not for an eternity!!!
Now for the main reason that these things are taking place and at a seemingly faster pace then ever before. The statement, "For it is written" should give you a clue! It is GOD ordained, and will happen. Mankind is slowly sliding farther and farther away from GOD with every beat of our hearts and bringing about the second coming of the LORD JESUS. Man is fulfilling that which was written oh so long ago and not even realizing that he is. We've been worrying about all the major world events that are showing the signs of the times, and yet it is the smallest and simplest of things that is truly showing our position in GOD's timeline of HIStory. LOVE!!!
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
Thursday, April 8, 2010
4.09.10_ Mark 9:38-41_For or against us
Praise the LORD!!!
Though I've nothing at this moment, I'm led to open this for some reason and I do as led and not as I feel I should. A hard to explain point, which takes time to learn and much pain and suffering along the route!
Mark 9:38-41
Here are some verses that many have totally forgotten and/or overlooked! An truthfully, ones that are very important in this day and age. A day and age of mostly judgmental people and churches. We see way too much arguing over the slightest difference in doctrinal beliefs and any other minor difference. Does it really matter if one person believes in "once saved, always saved" or not? Or what about the differences in beliefs over the rapture or millennial KINGDOM? The major factors we should worry about are, does the person believe in the birth, life, atoning death(crucifixion), resurrection, ascension and triune GOD? Even making this statement, I've gone beyond that which CHRIST HIMSELF did, and it makes me wonder just how far we are supposed to distinguish ourselves from unbelievers.
If one were to look around today, or perhaps visit different churches, whether denominational differences or sometimes within the same denomination, we can find differences in almost every single one. This has come about by the pride of men being allowed to run rampant and control that which is preached. But in a way this is good and is being allowed by GOD. You may wonder why GOD would allow differences within the church, a church that HE made to bring glory to HIS name? We're told that the body of believers is made up of many different parts and each part has a differing purpose. Now why would this be, unless it was for the fact that we've many differing people in this world of ours and none have the exact same view of anything. This has to do with that which makes us each unique, our spirit, our GOD given spirit. If GOD had wanted us to all be the exact same, HE could of quite easily done so. Yet HE didn't! No matter what we gather together to do, there is always going to be a difference and this is good. Because it gives us a broader understanding about everything we do.
Let's take a look at something very simple. Let's say stacking paper. Now if we continue to stack it beyond a certain height, its going to fall over. But if we wrap it into bundles of several hundred sheets, we can stack it higher, yet only so high. Now if we stack it into interlocking layers over a larger area, we can stack it even higher. Now these methods all came about because of different people studying the same thing, through different eyes and understandings and wouldn't of happened any other way. Sure we may of figured out a better ways of doing this over time, but this was done in a shorter period, because of differing opinions. Now we all have the same basic understanding of the Bible, though we may read differing versions. One person may believe in the power and works of the HOLY SPIRIT, where as another believes in only the power in the name of JESUS. Though these both work, there are differing understandings and differing methods of the same actions taking place. Why do we fight over the differences?
We fight over these differences because of our pride, that original sin that separated man from GOD. It even separated the angels from GOD, for it is that which satan holds so dearly. Where as he thought himself better then HE whom created him. Pretty bad when the created can think itself better then that which created it(opps! hold on there, a lot of people still do). But this too, GOD had a purpose for allowing to happen! Our minds are so minute that we will never be able to fully understand the reasoning of GOD until that time in which we join HIM and HE opens our understanding to all things.
So what are we to do? Truthfully, I'd say the best thing to do is not to worry about judging others for what
they believe and worry about fulfilling the "Great Commission." We really need to leave the judgment up to the LORD, for there are scriptures that tell us not to even confront those preaching out of false motives(Phil. 1:18.) Whoever said being a Christian was an easy task, sure never tried walking the walk. Because there is surely nothing easy about it. One thing I'm very thankfully for, that with JESUS as my LORD and SAVIOR, I don't have to worry about making mistakes, because I'm forgiven and HE will strengthen me and help me to repent of the problem
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
Though I've nothing at this moment, I'm led to open this for some reason and I do as led and not as I feel I should. A hard to explain point, which takes time to learn and much pain and suffering along the route!
Mark 9:38-41
38"“Teacher,” said John, “we saw a man driving out demons in your name and we told him to stop, because he was not one of us.”
39 “Do not stop him,” Jesus said. “No one who does a miracle in my name can in the next moment say anything bad about me, 40 for whoever is not against us is for us. 41 I tell you the truth, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to Christ will certainly not lose his reward.""
Here are some verses that many have totally forgotten and/or overlooked! An truthfully, ones that are very important in this day and age. A day and age of mostly judgmental people and churches. We see way too much arguing over the slightest difference in doctrinal beliefs and any other minor difference. Does it really matter if one person believes in "once saved, always saved" or not? Or what about the differences in beliefs over the rapture or millennial KINGDOM? The major factors we should worry about are, does the person believe in the birth, life, atoning death(crucifixion), resurrection, ascension and triune GOD? Even making this statement, I've gone beyond that which CHRIST HIMSELF did, and it makes me wonder just how far we are supposed to distinguish ourselves from unbelievers.
If one were to look around today, or perhaps visit different churches, whether denominational differences or sometimes within the same denomination, we can find differences in almost every single one. This has come about by the pride of men being allowed to run rampant and control that which is preached. But in a way this is good and is being allowed by GOD. You may wonder why GOD would allow differences within the church, a church that HE made to bring glory to HIS name? We're told that the body of believers is made up of many different parts and each part has a differing purpose. Now why would this be, unless it was for the fact that we've many differing people in this world of ours and none have the exact same view of anything. This has to do with that which makes us each unique, our spirit, our GOD given spirit. If GOD had wanted us to all be the exact same, HE could of quite easily done so. Yet HE didn't! No matter what we gather together to do, there is always going to be a difference and this is good. Because it gives us a broader understanding about everything we do.
Let's take a look at something very simple. Let's say stacking paper. Now if we continue to stack it beyond a certain height, its going to fall over. But if we wrap it into bundles of several hundred sheets, we can stack it higher, yet only so high. Now if we stack it into interlocking layers over a larger area, we can stack it even higher. Now these methods all came about because of different people studying the same thing, through different eyes and understandings and wouldn't of happened any other way. Sure we may of figured out a better ways of doing this over time, but this was done in a shorter period, because of differing opinions. Now we all have the same basic understanding of the Bible, though we may read differing versions. One person may believe in the power and works of the HOLY SPIRIT, where as another believes in only the power in the name of JESUS. Though these both work, there are differing understandings and differing methods of the same actions taking place. Why do we fight over the differences?
We fight over these differences because of our pride, that original sin that separated man from GOD. It even separated the angels from GOD, for it is that which satan holds so dearly. Where as he thought himself better then HE whom created him. Pretty bad when the created can think itself better then that which created it(opps! hold on there, a lot of people still do). But this too, GOD had a purpose for allowing to happen! Our minds are so minute that we will never be able to fully understand the reasoning of GOD until that time in which we join HIM and HE opens our understanding to all things.
So what are we to do? Truthfully, I'd say the best thing to do is not to worry about judging others for what
they believe and worry about fulfilling the "Great Commission." We really need to leave the judgment up to the LORD, for there are scriptures that tell us not to even confront those preaching out of false motives(Phil. 1:18.) Whoever said being a Christian was an easy task, sure never tried walking the walk. Because there is surely nothing easy about it. One thing I'm very thankfully for, that with JESUS as my LORD and SAVIOR, I don't have to worry about making mistakes, because I'm forgiven and HE will strengthen me and help me to repent of the problem
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
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
4.07.10_1 Th. 3:12,13_Your love
Praise the LORD!!!
Much of what the LORD has laid upon my heart has to do with the subject of love. Love for the brethren and for those outside of the church. If you're familiar with the events of the last year of my life you'll know the reasoning behind this and it is a topic which needs to be focused on by the church. For this is something that is highly lacking in a large number of Christian's lives!
1 Th. 3:12,13
12 "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
Again, we have verses that relate to our ability to love those around us. Those of the brotherhood of Christians and also to those outside of the church. Why so much concentration on loving others? For one basic reason, this is that which CHRIST HIMSELF personified while here on earth. For many years, this fact has been taught within our churches and seminaries, that GOD is the personification of love. So much so, it seems as if people have taken it for granted, that this is the way Christians act. Yet, this isn't that which we see. We see just the opposite though, there is a lack of love being shown by those within the church, to others within the body of CHRIST and also to those outside the body and living for the world! This is in line with 'reverse psychology,' where when you want someone to do something, you tell them 'not' to do it! The worse part about this is that it is something totally outside the realm of that which is considered Christian ethics.
This is what is being shown by the church though, through it's actions. Not all churches, but to an extent, a good portion of them. Or maybe it might be a better way to state it, as not the church itself, but those within the church, when outside of the 'four walls' of the buildings. Because we see a lot of work being done by church groups, but when those very same people are off by themselves, they're totally different beings. One of the statements that I heard a good number of times, when I was meeting Christians on the road, "there are to many hypocrites within the church!" We see plenty of action when people are gathered together under the roof of the church, but when these same people leave the building and the company of their Christian brothers and sisters, you'd not recognize them at all. There seems to be a night and day difference between the two beings.
There is one really big problem with this attitude too, that is the fact that GOD sees us all the time. Not just when we're in communion with other Christians, but as well as when we're alone or with others outside of the church (the body). A good point to make here, is the fact that we each receive the HOLY SPIRIT as a seal, a sign of our being redeemed by the LORD. HE dwells within us, 24/7, never leaving us for a moment. Though there may be times that we grieve HIM and HE withdraws HIS presence from upon us, HE hasn't left us, but just pulled back from being fully realized by us. Kind of like when the sun goes behind a cloud during the day, though you can't feel it's warmth and its gotten darker, it is still there, having never left it's placement in the universe. This is something we should really think about, because it could change the way we think and act at times. The HOLY SPIRIT is constantly within us, knowing every word we speak, or action we take, right down to the very thoughts that govern all these. Think about this!
As to our love being shown on a full time basis, this is something that each one of us will have to work on ourselves! Something that must be undertaken with a very serious mindset and with a large amount of prayer involved. For the type of change that needs to take place, needs to happen from the inside out, and this is something we can't do on our own. It is something that the HOLY SPIRIT is going to have to be in charge of and actually do most of the work on. For the center of the problem is our hard and calloused heart, a heart that has become so accustom to life within the world, with all of it's hurts and sorrows, it has developed a shell around it. Impenetrable, except by the most expert of hands, ones that have dealt with more hearts of this kind then we could ever imagine. So pray and be ready, for when the work begins, it might not be the most pleasant of experiences you've been through in your life, but one that the results of, will of created a totally new creation out of you.
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
Much of what the LORD has laid upon my heart has to do with the subject of love. Love for the brethren and for those outside of the church. If you're familiar with the events of the last year of my life you'll know the reasoning behind this and it is a topic which needs to be focused on by the church. For this is something that is highly lacking in a large number of Christian's lives!
1 Th. 3:12,13
12 "May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you. 13 May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
Again, we have verses that relate to our ability to love those around us. Those of the brotherhood of Christians and also to those outside of the church. Why so much concentration on loving others? For one basic reason, this is that which CHRIST HIMSELF personified while here on earth. For many years, this fact has been taught within our churches and seminaries, that GOD is the personification of love. So much so, it seems as if people have taken it for granted, that this is the way Christians act. Yet, this isn't that which we see. We see just the opposite though, there is a lack of love being shown by those within the church, to others within the body of CHRIST and also to those outside the body and living for the world! This is in line with 'reverse psychology,' where when you want someone to do something, you tell them 'not' to do it! The worse part about this is that it is something totally outside the realm of that which is considered Christian ethics.
This is what is being shown by the church though, through it's actions. Not all churches, but to an extent, a good portion of them. Or maybe it might be a better way to state it, as not the church itself, but those within the church, when outside of the 'four walls' of the buildings. Because we see a lot of work being done by church groups, but when those very same people are off by themselves, they're totally different beings. One of the statements that I heard a good number of times, when I was meeting Christians on the road, "there are to many hypocrites within the church!" We see plenty of action when people are gathered together under the roof of the church, but when these same people leave the building and the company of their Christian brothers and sisters, you'd not recognize them at all. There seems to be a night and day difference between the two beings.
There is one really big problem with this attitude too, that is the fact that GOD sees us all the time. Not just when we're in communion with other Christians, but as well as when we're alone or with others outside of the church (the body). A good point to make here, is the fact that we each receive the HOLY SPIRIT as a seal, a sign of our being redeemed by the LORD. HE dwells within us, 24/7, never leaving us for a moment. Though there may be times that we grieve HIM and HE withdraws HIS presence from upon us, HE hasn't left us, but just pulled back from being fully realized by us. Kind of like when the sun goes behind a cloud during the day, though you can't feel it's warmth and its gotten darker, it is still there, having never left it's placement in the universe. This is something we should really think about, because it could change the way we think and act at times. The HOLY SPIRIT is constantly within us, knowing every word we speak, or action we take, right down to the very thoughts that govern all these. Think about this!
As to our love being shown on a full time basis, this is something that each one of us will have to work on ourselves! Something that must be undertaken with a very serious mindset and with a large amount of prayer involved. For the type of change that needs to take place, needs to happen from the inside out, and this is something we can't do on our own. It is something that the HOLY SPIRIT is going to have to be in charge of and actually do most of the work on. For the center of the problem is our hard and calloused heart, a heart that has become so accustom to life within the world, with all of it's hurts and sorrows, it has developed a shell around it. Impenetrable, except by the most expert of hands, ones that have dealt with more hearts of this kind then we could ever imagine. So pray and be ready, for when the work begins, it might not be the most pleasant of experiences you've been through in your life, but one that the results of, will of created a totally new creation out of you.
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
Friday, March 19, 2010
3.20.10_1 Peter 3:15_Shinning
Praise the LORD!!!
I pray all are well today and that the LORD is truly moving within your life.
1 Peter 3:15
15 "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,"
Have you ever done something within your walk for CHRIST, that you thought may of been a deterrent to the spreading of the GOSPEL? I other words, something that would make your credibility as a Christian come under the scrutiny of others. Not something that would out right speak volumes as to the validity of your walk, such as crimes or moral lapses, but something that could be considered just a bit far fetched, or out of the ordinary. This has happened to me with the announcement of the fact that VCM will operate on the lines of the 1st century church and not that of modern churches. Right away, people began thinking about the fact that in the early church, the saints sold everything that they owned and gave it to the cause of spreading the GOSPEL. Though I've mentioned this in the announcements, it truly isn't the picture of what I was talking about. That which I'm speaking of is the fact that during this time, the saints had but one purpose in their lives and that was to serve JESUS to the fullest no matter what it took to do so!!!
In today's verse this exact thing is seen, just from a bit of a differing point of view. We're to set CHRIST apart in our lives, so that others can see a remarkable difference in all that we do. We tend to go through life with a hope that is far different then that of other people, for while we're facing trials and tribulations, we can still manage to have joy and hope shining forth. This is something that is totally lacking in the present day church to a great extent. People today, tend to allow all the weight of the world to come to bare upon their shoulders and present this as an "oh I'm a suffering Christian" type of attitude. More of a pity me because of my faith ordeal, and this is far from what our verse today has laid hold of.
Why has this happened to so many within the church today? Probably because so many have lost sight of their "first love," and all that living a life for HIM entails. Life today in the church, has grown more into a school of life and how to succeed in the world through biblical principles. We have sermons on every aspect of life there is, marriage, finances, dating, divorce, you name it and it's most likely being preached in a church somewhere next Sunday. Seldom will one hear a sermon bearing directly on CHRIST and our need for HIM within our lives, let alone one every single week of the year. No longer is our focus on JESUS, but it seems to be only on all that HE can do for us, instead of how we can share HIM with the rest of the world. Christians have taken on the forms of the world, no longer focusing on JESUS, but only on self.
This is what set the early church apart from the rest of the world! Their lives were filled with an abundance of love for others and in all that they did, they did it in a manor so much different than the rest. They had a hope, that was so visible to others, that it manifested itself to everyone, in everything that they did. When I was working on the gulf coast after the 05 hurricanes, every once in a great while this could be seen. I'd run into a person wading knee deep in mud and they'd have a smile on their face. I could tell right away that they were a fellow Christian and one that focused their daily hope on JESUS and all HE's done within their lives and they were showing this fact. Then there were times when I'd run into groups of Christians working and it'd be no different then working amongst any group of non-believers. Cussing, complaining about this or that, all sorts of talk that was the farthest thing from JESUS you could imagine. The worst part of this fact, was that I'd find out that they belonged to some big denomination and had come there as part of a massive move to mobilize their church members and put a show on for others to see. Most of these spent their time away from the work area, in air conditioned buildings, traveling around in tour buses and in general were very short term.
These that I've just mentioned, are not the one's that VCM wants working for us. We want the first example group. Those that will wade through the muck and mire, smiling and singing. Swatting at mosquitoes the size of air planes and laughing about it. These are those that truly have a hope within them. These are those that have set aside CHRIST within their hearts and these are those that will truly give their all, going to the extreme to show the love CHRIST has for a of mankind, through their actions, no matter what the conditions they're putting up with.
This may seem more like a blog for the ministry, than a devotional. But I'm sure that if you look hard enough, you're find that which convicts your heart of a need for some changes within your life. Something that draws your attention to your daily walk with the LORD, and a need to alter things a bit. Our lives as Christians, is supposed to reflect JESUS, not just part of the time, but all the time. Can you say that this is the way your walk is truly, and all the time? If not, then there is room for improvement. I sure hope that no one says that their walk is spotless before GOD, because I'd have to tell you, you're wrong! For there is only ONE WHO's walk was this way and HIS name is JESUS!!!
Some extra reading for your pleasure: Gal. 6:14; 1 Tim. 1:12-17; 2 Tim. 1:8-12; James 2:1-8
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
You also may enjoy my other blog, Blogs from the VINE
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
I pray all are well today and that the LORD is truly moving within your life.
1 Peter 3:15
15 "But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,"
Have you ever done something within your walk for CHRIST, that you thought may of been a deterrent to the spreading of the GOSPEL? I other words, something that would make your credibility as a Christian come under the scrutiny of others. Not something that would out right speak volumes as to the validity of your walk, such as crimes or moral lapses, but something that could be considered just a bit far fetched, or out of the ordinary. This has happened to me with the announcement of the fact that VCM will operate on the lines of the 1st century church and not that of modern churches. Right away, people began thinking about the fact that in the early church, the saints sold everything that they owned and gave it to the cause of spreading the GOSPEL. Though I've mentioned this in the announcements, it truly isn't the picture of what I was talking about. That which I'm speaking of is the fact that during this time, the saints had but one purpose in their lives and that was to serve JESUS to the fullest no matter what it took to do so!!!
In today's verse this exact thing is seen, just from a bit of a differing point of view. We're to set CHRIST apart in our lives, so that others can see a remarkable difference in all that we do. We tend to go through life with a hope that is far different then that of other people, for while we're facing trials and tribulations, we can still manage to have joy and hope shining forth. This is something that is totally lacking in the present day church to a great extent. People today, tend to allow all the weight of the world to come to bare upon their shoulders and present this as an "oh I'm a suffering Christian" type of attitude. More of a pity me because of my faith ordeal, and this is far from what our verse today has laid hold of.
Why has this happened to so many within the church today? Probably because so many have lost sight of their "first love," and all that living a life for HIM entails. Life today in the church, has grown more into a school of life and how to succeed in the world through biblical principles. We have sermons on every aspect of life there is, marriage, finances, dating, divorce, you name it and it's most likely being preached in a church somewhere next Sunday. Seldom will one hear a sermon bearing directly on CHRIST and our need for HIM within our lives, let alone one every single week of the year. No longer is our focus on JESUS, but it seems to be only on all that HE can do for us, instead of how we can share HIM with the rest of the world. Christians have taken on the forms of the world, no longer focusing on JESUS, but only on self.
This is what set the early church apart from the rest of the world! Their lives were filled with an abundance of love for others and in all that they did, they did it in a manor so much different than the rest. They had a hope, that was so visible to others, that it manifested itself to everyone, in everything that they did. When I was working on the gulf coast after the 05 hurricanes, every once in a great while this could be seen. I'd run into a person wading knee deep in mud and they'd have a smile on their face. I could tell right away that they were a fellow Christian and one that focused their daily hope on JESUS and all HE's done within their lives and they were showing this fact. Then there were times when I'd run into groups of Christians working and it'd be no different then working amongst any group of non-believers. Cussing, complaining about this or that, all sorts of talk that was the farthest thing from JESUS you could imagine. The worst part of this fact, was that I'd find out that they belonged to some big denomination and had come there as part of a massive move to mobilize their church members and put a show on for others to see. Most of these spent their time away from the work area, in air conditioned buildings, traveling around in tour buses and in general were very short term.
These that I've just mentioned, are not the one's that VCM wants working for us. We want the first example group. Those that will wade through the muck and mire, smiling and singing. Swatting at mosquitoes the size of air planes and laughing about it. These are those that truly have a hope within them. These are those that have set aside CHRIST within their hearts and these are those that will truly give their all, going to the extreme to show the love CHRIST has for a of mankind, through their actions, no matter what the conditions they're putting up with.
This may seem more like a blog for the ministry, than a devotional. But I'm sure that if you look hard enough, you're find that which convicts your heart of a need for some changes within your life. Something that draws your attention to your daily walk with the LORD, and a need to alter things a bit. Our lives as Christians, is supposed to reflect JESUS, not just part of the time, but all the time. Can you say that this is the way your walk is truly, and all the time? If not, then there is room for improvement. I sure hope that no one says that their walk is spotless before GOD, because I'd have to tell you, you're wrong! For there is only ONE WHO's walk was this way and HIS name is JESUS!!!
Some extra reading for your pleasure: Gal. 6:14; 1 Tim. 1:12-17; 2 Tim. 1:8-12; James 2:1-8
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
You also may enjoy 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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