Praise the LORD!!!
You can thank a Christian brother(and the LORD) for this next little piece :{)))
As the title suggest, it has to do with "Four years ago," and "Yes, it does."
This friend's post brought up the subject of "obedience" and then the LORD hit me with what I was doing on a morning just like this "Four years ago."
You see, I was sitting on the side of a major county road in Kentucky, just south of Caneyville, with a blown out knee; 90 lb. duffle bag and a one year old shepherd/wolf pup. At this time(12:30 PM), I'd been there for about two hours already and the "church" attendees would be on their way home about now. I figured that if there were any chance of me getting some assistance, it'd be now!!!
LORD, was I surprised !!! I watched for the next three hours, as vehicle after vehicle went by. Many glancing in my direction, yet the only tail lights I saw, were from those slowing down for the corner at the bottom of the hill.
Now, what does this have to do with "Obedience"??? Plenty!!! Just how many of those "church" goers had the LORD "suggest" to them that they should stop and render assistance??? How many just blew it off ??? Or how many started the ol' "I've got to do this(and that)... ??? You most likely have made the "excuses" before. Most likely "MANY" times before!!! I surely know I have :{)))
Well folks. That right there has to deal with "OBEDIENCE" big time and there isn't a single one of us that hasn't flubbed up when it comes to it!!! We're so intent on living our own(selfish, little) lives, that we plain ol' overlook, play deaf and dumb when it comes to OBEYING the LORD's still quiet voice. There is but one way to overcome this deficit and this is>>> MUCH TIME SPENT ON HUMBLE KNEES
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Saturday, March 30, 2013
A promised blog for Logos 5 Bible software
Praise the LORD!!!
A while back, before I became a un-homeless person, I took on a challenge for Logos Bible software publishers. I was given one of their new line of studies, to evaluate and blog on. Well the time has come and here is a little more than I expected!!!
Now if you've followed me for any length of time, you'll know I use and promote this software. I've used it for years, since 01, and have had it along with many others, both free and at cost. Well, to say the least, they surprised me with this release :{)))
The study is one of the "Studies in Faithful Living" group produced by them. It is meant to serve numerous purposes; the basis for a personal Bible study, the focal point of a small group Bible study and also the foundations for a sermon series. For any of these, it fits the bill perfectly!!!
This can be attributed to many things: it's ties to the awesome Logos 5 Bible studies program and it's libraries; it's ties to the Faithlife Study Bible and it's study note library. But most of all I'd say it has to do with a group of dedicated writers, that have open ears(to hear others) and hearts that seek to glorify the LORD in that which they do!!!
What they've done, is put together a study that is interactive, tied to a(several) rich library systems and made in a way that is open to the differing ways people study and learn. They done a fine job of it and I'm looking forward to taking in the other studies within this series!!!
This one is the study "Abraham: Following GOD's Promise," and I believe it's the first in this series. It digs deeply into the life of Abraham, from the beginning of his walk with GOD and thru all the adventures right up to it's conclusion(well biblically.) With both a study and a leaders guide it encompasses all anyone could ask for in study. Well, that is unless you want one that does all the work for you, while you sit back and watch the TV or do something else. They give you the resources and you've got to bring them all together, the trail of "bread crumbs" is laid out before you.
Unlike many studies, which only go over that which is plain to see, they take you on the pathway that digs deeply into the person's life, it's effects on those around them and in the future, but also deeply into what their examples mean within our lives these very days.
As I've said, the study consist of two books: the Leader's Guide and the "Small Group Lesson Plans." Let's take a look at these each, starting with the "Leader's Guide." Here we find eight sets of studies and slideshows corresponding to the "Small Group Lesson Plans" and the eight sermon outlines and teaching slideshows. It functions as a reference in locating all the information in the studies, slides and videos included. These are each tied with all the appropriate information, including handouts, teaching slideshows and sermon outline inserts. Allowing you the information and resources to have others follow along with you as you progress thru the studies.
Now both the "Leader's Guide" and "Small Groups Study Plans" contain a stepped level of study. Containing information in the "Learning Objectives," an "Introduction," "Setting the Stage," "A Closer Look," "Throughout the Bible," and "Application."
Now I could go on and fill you in on all the information, but I think letting y'all get a look for yourselves would be the best way to go on :{))) So I'll let them tell you themselves!!!
Now this video is from it's "Pre Publish" days, the study is out and available for purchase, along with several others in a growing line of productions!!! So take a preview and wet your hunger for a great way to dig deeper into scripture and it's many colorful characters!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
A while back, before I became a un-homeless person, I took on a challenge for Logos Bible software publishers. I was given one of their new line of studies, to evaluate and blog on. Well the time has come and here is a little more than I expected!!!
Now if you've followed me for any length of time, you'll know I use and promote this software. I've used it for years, since 01, and have had it along with many others, both free and at cost. Well, to say the least, they surprised me with this release :{)))
The study is one of the "Studies in Faithful Living" group produced by them. It is meant to serve numerous purposes; the basis for a personal Bible study, the focal point of a small group Bible study and also the foundations for a sermon series. For any of these, it fits the bill perfectly!!!
This can be attributed to many things: it's ties to the awesome Logos 5 Bible studies program and it's libraries; it's ties to the Faithlife Study Bible and it's study note library. But most of all I'd say it has to do with a group of dedicated writers, that have open ears(to hear others) and hearts that seek to glorify the LORD in that which they do!!!
What they've done, is put together a study that is interactive, tied to a(several) rich library systems and made in a way that is open to the differing ways people study and learn. They done a fine job of it and I'm looking forward to taking in the other studies within this series!!!
This one is the study "Abraham: Following GOD's Promise," and I believe it's the first in this series. It digs deeply into the life of Abraham, from the beginning of his walk with GOD and thru all the adventures right up to it's conclusion(well biblically.) With both a study and a leaders guide it encompasses all anyone could ask for in study. Well, that is unless you want one that does all the work for you, while you sit back and watch the TV or do something else. They give you the resources and you've got to bring them all together, the trail of "bread crumbs" is laid out before you.
Unlike many studies, which only go over that which is plain to see, they take you on the pathway that digs deeply into the person's life, it's effects on those around them and in the future, but also deeply into what their examples mean within our lives these very days.
As I've said, the study consist of two books: the Leader's Guide and the "Small Group Lesson Plans." Let's take a look at these each, starting with the "Leader's Guide." Here we find eight sets of studies and slideshows corresponding to the "Small Group Lesson Plans" and the eight sermon outlines and teaching slideshows. It functions as a reference in locating all the information in the studies, slides and videos included. These are each tied with all the appropriate information, including handouts, teaching slideshows and sermon outline inserts. Allowing you the information and resources to have others follow along with you as you progress thru the studies.
Now both the "Leader's Guide" and "Small Groups Study Plans" contain a stepped level of study. Containing information in the "Learning Objectives," an "Introduction," "Setting the Stage," "A Closer Look," "Throughout the Bible," and "Application."
Now I could go on and fill you in on all the information, but I think letting y'all get a look for yourselves would be the best way to go on :{))) So I'll let them tell you themselves!!!
Now this video is from it's "Pre Publish" days, the study is out and available for purchase, along with several others in a growing line of productions!!! So take a preview and wet your hunger for a great way to dig deeper into scripture and it's many colorful characters!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
A "VineNotes" Ministry Newsletter(of sorts)
Praise the LORD!!!
As the title says, this is a Vine of CHRIST Ministries "VineNotes" update. "Of sorts," because truly there hasn't been much going on within the ministry. It's formation and set up procedures are basically at a stand still.
Considering the amount of time that has transpired since the last newsletter(?) many would of given up and given in to the temptation of seeking after another means of glorifying GOD within their life. My focus now, is stronger then ever, though not very much along the actual lines of the ministry are getting done. But the LORD has shifted me to an almost steady task of posting devotionals, studies, readings and other Christian content online within the social media sphere. Most like many of you're familiar with these posting, since the bulk of the readers of this blog are followers on one of these sites :{)))
Over the years of my Christian walk, since Jan. 7, 1995, I've had many of these periods(plateaus) within my life. Those time periods where there seems that little is being accomplished to grow and expand the KINGDOM of GOD. Friends, it is these times within our walk that GOD is allowing us to relax and grow in HIS grace, learning to be patient and await HIS perfect timing for that which is to come. A reason for the ministry's by line of "for such a time as this."
We, as self willed beings, very often tend to think of all things being within our control and if it's going to get done, we've got to do it. One thing I've learned well over these years, is that there is NO BETTER time- then GOD's time. For over the years I've stepped out on my own, in my own strengthens and ideas, to only fall flat on my face, or run into a brick wall :{))) Most of the time, that wall or ground into which I've found myself, was the LORD's hand, gently catching me or putting the brakes on for me!!! An sure as can be, there was a lesson thru chastisement to shortly follow, with it's object lesson to learn buried within it :{)))
Now, you may be wondering what all that has been said, has anything to do with the LORD's ministry for me??? The fact is, EVERYTHING!!! For when one gives their life totally to the LORD, forsaking all to follow HIM, every single detail becomes a part of their cross, their burden to shoulder. The ministry, I know is is good hands, HIS hands. It's growth, again HIS hands. The days will come when this break from labors(HIS) comes to and end and the ministry will break forth from it's seed pod and sprout into a glorious vine it is meant too. Until that time, I'll continue to be obedient and await HIS perfect timing!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
ps: and when it does, there will be places for many, many wholehearted believers that seek only to glorify the precious and holy name of JESUS!!!!!!! !!!!!!! !!!!!!! So, why not be in prayer and see if you're one???
As the title says, this is a Vine of CHRIST Ministries "VineNotes" update. "Of sorts," because truly there hasn't been much going on within the ministry. It's formation and set up procedures are basically at a stand still.
Considering the amount of time that has transpired since the last newsletter(?) many would of given up and given in to the temptation of seeking after another means of glorifying GOD within their life. My focus now, is stronger then ever, though not very much along the actual lines of the ministry are getting done. But the LORD has shifted me to an almost steady task of posting devotionals, studies, readings and other Christian content online within the social media sphere. Most like many of you're familiar with these posting, since the bulk of the readers of this blog are followers on one of these sites :{)))
Over the years of my Christian walk, since Jan. 7, 1995, I've had many of these periods(plateaus) within my life. Those time periods where there seems that little is being accomplished to grow and expand the KINGDOM of GOD. Friends, it is these times within our walk that GOD is allowing us to relax and grow in HIS grace, learning to be patient and await HIS perfect timing for that which is to come. A reason for the ministry's by line of "for such a time as this."
We, as self willed beings, very often tend to think of all things being within our control and if it's going to get done, we've got to do it. One thing I've learned well over these years, is that there is NO BETTER time- then GOD's time. For over the years I've stepped out on my own, in my own strengthens and ideas, to only fall flat on my face, or run into a brick wall :{))) Most of the time, that wall or ground into which I've found myself, was the LORD's hand, gently catching me or putting the brakes on for me!!! An sure as can be, there was a lesson thru chastisement to shortly follow, with it's object lesson to learn buried within it :{)))
Now, you may be wondering what all that has been said, has anything to do with the LORD's ministry for me??? The fact is, EVERYTHING!!! For when one gives their life totally to the LORD, forsaking all to follow HIM, every single detail becomes a part of their cross, their burden to shoulder. The ministry, I know is is good hands, HIS hands. It's growth, again HIS hands. The days will come when this break from labors(HIS) comes to and end and the ministry will break forth from it's seed pod and sprout into a glorious vine it is meant too. Until that time, I'll continue to be obedient and await HIS perfect timing!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
ps: and when it does, there will be places for many, many wholehearted believers that seek only to glorify the precious and holy name of JESUS!!!!!!! !!!!!!! !!!!!!! So, why not be in prayer and see if you're one???
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Though homeless...
Praise the LORD!!!
Though homeless the LORD has blessed me to not be completely out in the cold. I've been supplied, what started out as "storage only," a temporary shelter in a friend's garage. They've also allowed me the use of a small electric heater, an air mattress to keep me up off the cold concrete floor and the use of their Wi-Fi connection so I'm able to keep the LORD's message going out!!! You can believe I highly thankful for this person's listening to the LORD and being obedient in following that leading!!!
That which I'm blessed with would be considered "a luxury suite" to many around the world. Those who live in condition far worse than that which most could ever imagine. My heart goes out to these, as day in and day out I continue to work on building the LORD's ministry for me. Of which, the plight of the homeless is but one of the agendas that it will seek to cure or at least assist people in overcoming. The list of agendas for the ministry is a long one, covering far more than most could imagine themselves. Truthfully, I couldn't of even begun to bring all these together under one ministry, let alone add all them together in a growing list!!!
What GOD has done within my life, since "re-birth," has simply been amazing!!! I've come from one of the most self-centered, egotistical people you could of met and been born anew into one that cares far more about others than he does himself !!! The problem is though, that in all the efforts expended to broadcast the ministry and it's goals, not one person has ever stepped up and asked about how they can help or join in with the efforts!!! This wouldn't be so bad if I'd of just started all this a year or so ago, but when you consider that I've been at this whole thing since my release from the "halfway house" in "99." I've gone thru every imaginable means of broadcasting the ministry, it's goals and the GOSPEL message thru it and still "no interest."
Many would be disheartened, but I am not. For I know WHO it is that laid this cross upon my shoulders and WHO it is that shall bring it all to completion in every degree!!! When the LORD gives you something to carry, carry it to your dying breath, no matter what it looks like at this time, HE has ways of making things happen!!!
"With GOD, all things are possible !!!!!!!" (Mark 10:27)
Good day and GOD bless,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Though homeless the LORD has blessed me to not be completely out in the cold. I've been supplied, what started out as "storage only," a temporary shelter in a friend's garage. They've also allowed me the use of a small electric heater, an air mattress to keep me up off the cold concrete floor and the use of their Wi-Fi connection so I'm able to keep the LORD's message going out!!! You can believe I highly thankful for this person's listening to the LORD and being obedient in following that leading!!!
That which I'm blessed with would be considered "a luxury suite" to many around the world. Those who live in condition far worse than that which most could ever imagine. My heart goes out to these, as day in and day out I continue to work on building the LORD's ministry for me. Of which, the plight of the homeless is but one of the agendas that it will seek to cure or at least assist people in overcoming. The list of agendas for the ministry is a long one, covering far more than most could imagine themselves. Truthfully, I couldn't of even begun to bring all these together under one ministry, let alone add all them together in a growing list!!!
What GOD has done within my life, since "re-birth," has simply been amazing!!! I've come from one of the most self-centered, egotistical people you could of met and been born anew into one that cares far more about others than he does himself !!! The problem is though, that in all the efforts expended to broadcast the ministry and it's goals, not one person has ever stepped up and asked about how they can help or join in with the efforts!!! This wouldn't be so bad if I'd of just started all this a year or so ago, but when you consider that I've been at this whole thing since my release from the "halfway house" in "99." I've gone thru every imaginable means of broadcasting the ministry, it's goals and the GOSPEL message thru it and still "no interest."
Many would be disheartened, but I am not. For I know WHO it is that laid this cross upon my shoulders and WHO it is that shall bring it all to completion in every degree!!! When the LORD gives you something to carry, carry it to your dying breath, no matter what it looks like at this time, HE has ways of making things happen!!!
"With GOD, all things are possible !!!!!!!" (Mark 10:27)
Good day and GOD bless,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
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