August "VineNotes" Newsletter

Praise the LORD!!!

    Though currently having a bit of a hard go, I thought I should get this months newsletter out. If you've been following my writings on the networked sites you'll know that I've been pushed to the max when it comes to working. The problem is that it hasn't been the LORD's work that I've had to undertake, but man's. I'm not overly happy about this situation, but someone has to pay the bills around here! Since this has been my position since the original formation of the ministry, it will continue until the LORD provides another means.

       Due to my working two jobs to accomplish this feat, I've had very little time to do much else at all. My online presence has been very limited. Usually only checking emails and making a few replies to comments posted. I have managed to post several devotionals, but these have been for the most part short and limited. Something I regret having to do.

       For those that have been watching the weather down here on the coastal bend of Texas, you'll know that we've had almost six straight weeks of 105(heat index) degree days. With working as an apartment maintenance man for two different employers, I've been constantly exposed to the heat in some way or another. Though one of my employers keeps the power on in the apartments, the other doesn't, and this is the one I've been working for the most. My list of chores includes landscaping, so I've been mowing and weedeating a lot of grass. Needless to say, six to ten hours out in this kind of heat really will take it out of a person. I've drug myself in in the evenings, sometimes barely able to fix a small meal, cleanup and get ready for bed. Now this wouldn't be that bad if I were helping those like the ministry is intended too, but I'm helping to fill the pockets of those that seek their own glory and prosperity.

       This has brought on a feeling of weakness and depression when it comes to spiritual matters! Though something I've faced numerous times before, not that which I relish. My zeal for the LORD and my spiritual 'fuel tank' seems to run dry at times like this. Mostly due to the fact of the work being done for the profit of men and not the LORD. I have worked in conditions like this numerous times since the LORD renewed me and will do it again, any day! But to bring profits to those that only take advantage of others and line their own pockets totally saps my strength. I've gone the extra mile and some more in both these cases. I've turned the other cheek. I've done all to the best of my ability, as if unto the LORD. The whole time letting both know the reasons they're getting this amount and quality of works from me. I'm starting to feel like a slave and though being obedient to my masters, abused and constantly kicked to the curb.

       I will continue to work for these until the LORD provides something else. Whether it is another better paying job, or the moneys to get the ministry off the ground finally(you should know which one I'm praying for:))) .)  Oh for the day that I can wake up and look forward to only doing works that will clearly bring glory to JESUS! Oh what a happy day that shall be and you'll most like hear my shouts of praises to the LORD no matter where you live:)))!!!

***This may sound like a lot of complaining, but there are times that we must just open up and let it all out. I've always promised to be straight forward and transparent and this is it. Please keep these ministries and myself in your prayers. For we could really use them at this time:))) )GOD bless and good day!!! Rev. Barth***