Praise the LORD!!!
One year ago tomorrow, April 11, was the day that I stepped out of the boat for the first time. Well maybe not the first time, but the biggest ever to date. This is the day that I start my first attempted trip to Kingsville, Texas to open the ministries first office and operational center.
To date, there has been very little done to set up anything that could remotely be called and office, operational complex or even a ministry! Why is this? The biggest reason has been the lack of funding of any type. I've been living in a host family's house for most of the time I've been here in Texas. going on seven months here at this house, plus there was another month spent at another home here in Kingsville. Not to mention the month and a half spent sheltered in Kentucky, on the first and second trips.
Since getting blessed with this host family, I've been blessed to have a high speed internet connection, which most of you have seen the results of. I've spent a large amount of time online. Trying to put the name of the ministry and our purpose out before as many peoples eyes that I can. I've been networking over a dozen different social sites and numerous other sites to do this. I've several blogs, this being one, and many of the other sites that I re post these too. I've even dabbled in some internet directories and advertising sites also. Basically I've done about the same that anyone in an internet business would do to place their site out before the masses.
I've had several comments made along the lines of making donations easier to make by having the ability to do so online. Well truthfully I'm not a big fan of PayPal and the other internet companies that set up online payment systems. They've a tendency to charge way too much for the services that they offer and with this being a helps ministry, every cent should be used to the best possible means. I really don't count lining the pockets of some other business as doing this. So this will have to await my having the funds and paperwork to enlist under my current banking system.
Most of the money that I've had since I've been here has been made doing small side jobs related to my fields of training. Carpentry, painting and landscaping have been the means to providing my personal needs. but with the weather having been the way it has down this way, either cold or wet, these haven't been to prosperous and I'm about flat broke. I would of been, except I managed to make a little this last month on a couple of side jobs. For years since the ministry was originally created, June 05, most of all the money that I've used to provide for others in some way has come out of pocket. Even the work that I did along the Louisiana and Mississippi gulf coast, this in over two hundred and fifty houses, was out of pocket also.
I really thought that with the LORD leading me to step out of the boat like HE did, that this was going to change also. From what I've seen, it hasn't and there's a good possibility that it won't. Well you know what? I'm going to continue working for the LORD in just the same way I've done up until now! That's right, If I've got to run this ministry, even the world wide branches of it, out of pocket and totally by myself, I'm going to do it. People have told me that if it hasn't grown any since I originally started it, that it must not be of GOD. Well I'm going to tell you something. You don't have things happen, like those that have happened to me and them not be of GOD's hands. You don't have five major heart problems just disappear, well actually six if you count the two tears in my heart muscles I was born with! A prison sentence that in all rights should of been over twenty five years, end up being less then four years total, including halfway house. I could go on even more, for there are hundreds of miracles that have taken place during my life, but won't.
Read my book, Out of the LIGHT (it's free and online and download-able), go over the ministry's website and run a few searches of my name. Check out that which I've been doing both recently and forever if you'd like. Just because I don't have a big reputation or a mega ministry, doesn't mean I don't have a heart to serve GOD. I could go on like Paul, the apostle, and boast a little, but I'll not, because I'm not that way. What you've read here and online about me is about all the boast there is to me. Yes, there is much that I could add to blow my own horn, but you'll not get it out of me. That which you will hear and see from me will be the fruits that the LORD bless me to produce. I've no ideal what the future holds, besides that which HE's shown me in visions (which I've seen none of yet), but I do know that it will be to the glory of the LORD. Whether good or bad, whatever happens within my life, I account it all as that which GOD has allowed to happen and that in some way, shape or form it will end up bring glory to the most precious name of JESUS. What HE has in store for me tomorrow, I've no idea, and really don't care, because I know, that I live and breath to bring glory to JESUS in all that I do. Nothing else matters and I care about nothing else either, so LORD let it all be to YOUR glory, honor and praise and let my name be not even mentioned!!!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Monday, March 29, 2010
Plea for sponsors!!!
Praise the LORD!!!
I am the Rev. Marshall Barth and I operate Vine of CHRIST Ministries. You could say I'm the owner/operator/President/CEO/Administrator and any other business type name you'd like to place there. Roughly speaking, I am VCM and have been since Aug. 07 when the LORD laid this ministry upon my heart. I've two other people working to assist me here in the states and some in Liberia Africa, seeking to form our international branch. Beside these, I'm alone. Everything I do is that which the LORD leads me to do and nothing but. Right down to this blog!!!
I'm just short of one year from the time I stepped out in faith to walk from Utopia, OH. to Kingsville, TX. Exactly the distance I've no Idea and really don't care, the fact of the matter is this, that I stepped out in faith, totally trusting the LORD to provide my every need. He did too! Though the first trip was plagued with mishaps and was cut short of the goal, I learn volumes about the state of the church and Christians in general. You can find articles written on these online, if you care to follow through on them. Though this isn't the purpose of this blog and I'll not waste your time.
As I've said, I've been working this ministry for the most part by myself and totally out of pocket since it's inception and most of this information can be found online somewhere. At this time I'm making a public plea to anyone that would be interested in helping form this ministry into what the LORD has shown me it to be! Individual persons, right on up to Fortune 500 corporations, I'm looking for sponsors!!! I don't have grant writers, not even a single one. The two people that are helping,one is in the email prayer line and the other is working on graphics and word of mouth/online advertising. So as you can see, I've mostly to do things by myself.
Anyone that would be interested in help VCM, in anyway, just please do. It is about time that this ministry began to grow. I know this is most likely the most unorthodox manor of doing things, but when the LORD leads me I do it, I don't ask questions! If you know someone that might be interest in helping, please tell them about us. All I know is that which the LORD showed me this ministry would be some day and that it is far from anything close to that vision. VCM is going to be a Christian ministry that is about CHRIST and HIM alone. One that seeks to step out beyond the normal bounds of thinking and reach out to people in all walks of life. The ministry's website is a big mess, because I've worked it alone and have continuously added to it, never removing much and it's a bit overwhelming. But the fact of the matter is this. You will find everything you'd want to know about it, the intentions of it, what I've done since beginning it and everything about myself. All this is there to be found, you'd just have to take the time to find it.
I'm not a great scholar or internet wonder, I'm but a simple man that made a living with his hands. I lived a hard life for the most part, one far from anything considered GODly. Since giving my life to JESUS on Jan.7, 1995, I've lived almost totally for HIM and this is that which the ministry is about, a total surrender to GOD. One of giving your life to HIM just as scripture says, "forsaking all to follow me." I'm not asking everyone that donates to the ministry to do this, though the LORD has, but what I'm asking is that people begin to help me become the ministry the LORD has shown me this will be. I've heard all the reasons why not to give, and I really don't care if people do or not, it doesn't effect my walk with the LORD, just their own. If VCM becomes one tenth of what the LORD has shown me, people won't have to worry about their money going where it was intended, like happens so often today, because we'll have an abundance that only the LORD could of brought together and people's needs will be met and better then they are today by governments and other groups. All this being done to the glory of JESUS CHRIST, KING of KINGS and LORD of LORDS.
I am the Rev. Marshall Barth and I operate Vine of CHRIST Ministries. You could say I'm the owner/operator/President/CEO/Administrator and any other business type name you'd like to place there. Roughly speaking, I am VCM and have been since Aug. 07 when the LORD laid this ministry upon my heart. I've two other people working to assist me here in the states and some in Liberia Africa, seeking to form our international branch. Beside these, I'm alone. Everything I do is that which the LORD leads me to do and nothing but. Right down to this blog!!!
I'm just short of one year from the time I stepped out in faith to walk from Utopia, OH. to Kingsville, TX. Exactly the distance I've no Idea and really don't care, the fact of the matter is this, that I stepped out in faith, totally trusting the LORD to provide my every need. He did too! Though the first trip was plagued with mishaps and was cut short of the goal, I learn volumes about the state of the church and Christians in general. You can find articles written on these online, if you care to follow through on them. Though this isn't the purpose of this blog and I'll not waste your time.
As I've said, I've been working this ministry for the most part by myself and totally out of pocket since it's inception and most of this information can be found online somewhere. At this time I'm making a public plea to anyone that would be interested in helping form this ministry into what the LORD has shown me it to be! Individual persons, right on up to Fortune 500 corporations, I'm looking for sponsors!!! I don't have grant writers, not even a single one. The two people that are helping,one is in the email prayer line and the other is working on graphics and word of mouth/online advertising. So as you can see, I've mostly to do things by myself.
Anyone that would be interested in help VCM, in anyway, just please do. It is about time that this ministry began to grow. I know this is most likely the most unorthodox manor of doing things, but when the LORD leads me I do it, I don't ask questions! If you know someone that might be interest in helping, please tell them about us. All I know is that which the LORD showed me this ministry would be some day and that it is far from anything close to that vision. VCM is going to be a Christian ministry that is about CHRIST and HIM alone. One that seeks to step out beyond the normal bounds of thinking and reach out to people in all walks of life. The ministry's website is a big mess, because I've worked it alone and have continuously added to it, never removing much and it's a bit overwhelming. But the fact of the matter is this. You will find everything you'd want to know about it, the intentions of it, what I've done since beginning it and everything about myself. All this is there to be found, you'd just have to take the time to find it.
I'm not a great scholar or internet wonder, I'm but a simple man that made a living with his hands. I lived a hard life for the most part, one far from anything considered GODly. Since giving my life to JESUS on Jan.7, 1995, I've lived almost totally for HIM and this is that which the ministry is about, a total surrender to GOD. One of giving your life to HIM just as scripture says, "forsaking all to follow me." I'm not asking everyone that donates to the ministry to do this, though the LORD has, but what I'm asking is that people begin to help me become the ministry the LORD has shown me this will be. I've heard all the reasons why not to give, and I really don't care if people do or not, it doesn't effect my walk with the LORD, just their own. If VCM becomes one tenth of what the LORD has shown me, people won't have to worry about their money going where it was intended, like happens so often today, because we'll have an abundance that only the LORD could of brought together and people's needs will be met and better then they are today by governments and other groups. All this being done to the glory of JESUS CHRIST, KING of KINGS and LORD of LORDS.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
When in need, the LORD...
Yesterday, while I was having a bit of an "Elijah" moment a sister in CHRIST was listening to the LORD and sent me this message from HIM!!!
GOD said:
I thought my dreams were impossible,
but God said, "All things are possible."
(Luke 18:27)
I was lost and confused. I thought I'd never find
a solution, but God said, "I will direct your steps."
(Proverbs 3:5)
I almost gave up. I thought I couldn't do it,
but God said, "You can do all things."
(Philippians 4:13)
I almost quit. I thought my efforts weren't worth
the trouble, but God said, "It will be worth it."
(Romans 8:28)
I thought I'd never make it. I thought I didn't have what it takes, but God said, "I'll supply all your needs."
(Philippians 4:19)
I was worried. I felt trapped beneath a mountain
of despair, but God said, "Cast your worries on me."
(I Peter 5:7)
I thought I couldn't do it, because I wasn't smart enough, but God said,
"I give you wisdom."
(Corinthians 1:30)
I suffered from guilt. I was angry at myself for what
I'd done, but God said, "I forgive you."
(I John 1:9)
I disliked myself. I thought that no one loved me,
but God said, "I love you."
(John 3:16)
I wept, because I was lonely, but God said,
"I will never leave you or forsake you."
(Hebrews 13:5)
Wouldn't it be awesome if more listened to our LORD on a regular basis and reached out and touched the hearts of those that are hurting or suffering? Our LORD is awesome and HE knows better then we, the WORDS that need to be spoken and the exact moment to render them. I thank HIM greatly for having this one there for me at this time, kneeling upon humble knee and listening to HIS message for another! May GOD bless her and lift her up as she has done for me!!!
Rev. Barth
Monday, March 15, 2010
Stepping out AGAIN!!!
Praise the LORD!!!
Well it looks like I'm stepping out of the boat again. Yes, again!!! The LORD has led me to keep on moving forward though no one has enlisted to help or join the ministry. This time it is going to be a two part notification. One, as to the style of the ministry, which, if you've been following me online you may already know. Two, the opening up, to take on others for key positions within the ministry and the collection of whatever people would like to donate.
In the last several days I've been letting people know that VCM isn't your normal type of ministry. We're going to be working from the principles of the 1st century church. Now this is a very important aspect to take note of, for one reason alone. It means that anyone who wants to join and give everything in order to serve the LORD is welcome. This is basically what I did in the early part of 05, when the LORD led me to take part in a missions trip to Haiti, or at least this is what I thought at the time. I sold my house and almost everything I had, but the bare essentials, made the arrangements with a supervising group and headed for Louisiana. Though this trip didn't take place, because the LORD had other plans for my being there, everything that I thought had been needed for the operations of the ministry were gotten rid of. It was down to the bare necessities of life. My Bibles, computer, clothing and limited cookware was all that was left. The money from everything that was sold was banked and ready to put to use in whatever manor the LORD led me to.
Well, for those of you that don't know the story, because you've not read about it at the ministry's website, the trip was canceled, due to kidnappings in Haiti of missionaries, and I ended up riding through two of the most devastating hurricanes in U.S. history, Katrina and Rita. This is where the LORD had wanted me to be, so I could garner information and witness the operations of other organizations and their ideas about disaster relief operations. Now this is also where the stockpiled money came into use. We had a pretty good pantry set up where we lived and as soon as it was safe to venture out to access the damage, I was giving it out to help those around the neighborhood survive. I'd been a 'survivalist' type for years, plus a Boy Scout, and knew to always keep a good supply of non perishable foods around, because you never know when disaster may strike or where. Believe me, when you've no power and it may be weeks before you get any, items that are quick and easy to prepare are a must.
Now if you can recall how the early saints sold everything that they had and left everything behind of their normal lifestyles to serve the LORD, you're know what I'm leading to. We'll gather everything that we need to help others and maintain life for ourselves into a common fund. Living and operating out of this fund. I can hear some people now saying that this is a cult or something, well its not. A cult would make you do this, we won't. If you want to keep a personal bank account, job, or maintain a normal lifestyle, that is fine with us. But this is the principle behind the ministry. If there is one person that is in need of something, the funds will be made available to them, no questions asked. There will eventually be housing supplied at all of our operational centers. Where members of the center will be able to live, all without the worries of paying rent or a mortgage. The same will be done for insurance and healthcare and any other thing you can think of, all will be coming from the ministry's central funds. This will pertain to those that opt in completely, but for those that decide to provide for themselves for the most part, they'll be taken care of in conditions outside of the normal bounds of their provisions, in this way keeping them in the standard that they've set for their lives.
How is all this going to come about? I've no idea, but this is where my stepping out of the boat comes in. The LORD has led me to this set up and I've faith that HE shall bring it about. How and when, I've no idea, but I do know, it shall be as HE has shown me. If I were to lean on my own understandings, I'd be saying forget it and going to find me another means of making a living, but I don't, I trust in the LORD completely. It's HIS ministry, it's HIS leading and it's faith in HIS provision and guidance that will make this ministry into that which HE wills for it to be, not mine. This all sounds a bit crazy, I admit, but GOD isn't known for doing things in the normal ways. HE's known for doing things in ways that show HIS power and abilities to change things and make things out of conditions that most would think impossible. If I didn't have the amount of faith that HE's blessed me with, I'd be telling HIM "to find someone else to build this for YOU, because I don't see it happening." But I'm not, because i do believe in HIS ability to do anything HE deems.
Another aspect of the 1st century church that we must take note of, one that most may of forgotten about. That is, that they're willing to put their very lives on the line to serve and glorify the LORD. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. When it comes to their bringing glory to the LORD, it takes center stage and they give it their best and their all to accomplish this task. Right down to their very blood, sweat and tears. Giving their life if needed, to share the GOSPEL and to show the LORD's love for all of mankind. I'm talking about people here, that will go into extremely dangerous situations to save the life of another person. Kind of along the lines of firefighters, police officers or members of the military, those that are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice for their cause if need be. Not that everyone with the ministry will be in these kinds of conditions, but this is the heart that we seek our people to have, a true Christian spirit, one that knows that their rewards truly are awaiting them with the LORD and not here on earth.
So why am I telling you all this now? For one great reason, to serve CHRIST is to operate totally in the open, or as is spoken of today in ministry circles, ministry transparency. All the facts and figures are laid out for everyone that wants to see them, nothing, absolutely nothing is hidden. There won't be people in the future that will be able to say that funds were misappropriated by this ministry. Or that these facts weren't revealed in the beginning. Because here it is right before your eyes and the eyes of anyone that wants to check into this ministry. Every detail of this ministry will be open for anyone to see, every cent will be accounted for and all records will be constantly checked for accuracy, by numerous people. This will set this ministry apart from all others and also make it operate unlike any other of its type. Accurate records help to produce accurate results. No mess ups, like those that took place in most of the disaster responses anyone can recall. Just look at Haiti's earthquake response. Fifty groups, all doing their own thing, getting in each others way and delaying and at times even preventing the help from getting to those that needed it! More on these aspects will come at a later date, something for you to look forward to.
Now for the second part of this stepping out session. I'm currently living in a host family's home. I've been with this family for about six months now. It is time for us to begin gathering every sort of supply we can get our hands on. I've no earthly idea where anything would be put, but this is what I'm led to do and announce at this time. This means everything, and anything that you can imagine. From the smallest of office needs to heavy equipment and vehicles! You're hearing me right. If you've an old, working piece of equipment that you'd like to donate, do so. I mean it, this sounds crazy and believe me I know it does, but this is just as I'm being led. Somehow and someway the LORD is going to provide for a place to put it and have it ready to be used in whatever manor is needed. If you're wondering about this plea, don't worry you're not alone, because I can't even begin to imagine how this will be done. Both my personal bank account and the ministry's are tapped out. I've not the money to buy a piece of penny candy, let alone a storage yard or buildings, but this is that which I'm being led to do, so I'm doing it. I know this is stepping out in faith, BIG time, but this is how blessed with faith the LORD has made me. When all seems impossible, I know that HE can and will do what needs to be done, to bring HIS plans into fruition. This is the biggest step of faith I've ever even thought about making, but one I know in my very core of being, that GOD will make a way for it all to happen!!! So if you've extra office supplies laying around and you're being led to donate them, send them off. Computers, send them. Semi trucks and trailers, deliver them. Whatever the LORD is leading you to do in reference to this ministry, don't think twice about it, just do it. Someway, somehow, GOD is going to make this all work out to HIS ultimate glory. I know this all sounds like the rantings of a madman, if I am, it because I'm crazy about JESUS and want the whole world to know it. There is no better way to serve the LORD then in complete humility and trust. I don't care what a single person thinks about me or this ministry at this time, for they will see the truth about it in the near future, when the fruits of it begin to take shape and we're going in where even angels fear to tread, helping people in their greatest times of need and doing it all for the glory of JESUS CHRIST, our LORD and SAVIOR!!!
As always, I ask no one to do any of this without first putting it to prayer!!! Then and only then, if you're led to step out of the boat like I have, don't doubt in the least, just take the first step. Believe me there is nothing like knowing deep within your heart that what you've done is that which GOD has led you to do. Nothing on this earth can compare!!! So if you're on fire for the LORD and seeking a means of serving HIM like no other ever before brought together. This just may be where the LORD is leading you. So just ask HIM, not another person, but HIM alone and be willing to do all that HE's led for you to do. For to run the race, with your eyes firmly set on the rewards at the end is the goal that you seek and it is the one that only you can make the choice to strive for. So whether its carrying your cross around the globe or helping those in need. I just say, step out and never look back, for in trusting JESUS your life will never be the same again!!!
Well it looks like I'm stepping out of the boat again. Yes, again!!! The LORD has led me to keep on moving forward though no one has enlisted to help or join the ministry. This time it is going to be a two part notification. One, as to the style of the ministry, which, if you've been following me online you may already know. Two, the opening up, to take on others for key positions within the ministry and the collection of whatever people would like to donate.
In the last several days I've been letting people know that VCM isn't your normal type of ministry. We're going to be working from the principles of the 1st century church. Now this is a very important aspect to take note of, for one reason alone. It means that anyone who wants to join and give everything in order to serve the LORD is welcome. This is basically what I did in the early part of 05, when the LORD led me to take part in a missions trip to Haiti, or at least this is what I thought at the time. I sold my house and almost everything I had, but the bare essentials, made the arrangements with a supervising group and headed for Louisiana. Though this trip didn't take place, because the LORD had other plans for my being there, everything that I thought had been needed for the operations of the ministry were gotten rid of. It was down to the bare necessities of life. My Bibles, computer, clothing and limited cookware was all that was left. The money from everything that was sold was banked and ready to put to use in whatever manor the LORD led me to.
Well, for those of you that don't know the story, because you've not read about it at the ministry's website, the trip was canceled, due to kidnappings in Haiti of missionaries, and I ended up riding through two of the most devastating hurricanes in U.S. history, Katrina and Rita. This is where the LORD had wanted me to be, so I could garner information and witness the operations of other organizations and their ideas about disaster relief operations. Now this is also where the stockpiled money came into use. We had a pretty good pantry set up where we lived and as soon as it was safe to venture out to access the damage, I was giving it out to help those around the neighborhood survive. I'd been a 'survivalist' type for years, plus a Boy Scout, and knew to always keep a good supply of non perishable foods around, because you never know when disaster may strike or where. Believe me, when you've no power and it may be weeks before you get any, items that are quick and easy to prepare are a must.
Now if you can recall how the early saints sold everything that they had and left everything behind of their normal lifestyles to serve the LORD, you're know what I'm leading to. We'll gather everything that we need to help others and maintain life for ourselves into a common fund. Living and operating out of this fund. I can hear some people now saying that this is a cult or something, well its not. A cult would make you do this, we won't. If you want to keep a personal bank account, job, or maintain a normal lifestyle, that is fine with us. But this is the principle behind the ministry. If there is one person that is in need of something, the funds will be made available to them, no questions asked. There will eventually be housing supplied at all of our operational centers. Where members of the center will be able to live, all without the worries of paying rent or a mortgage. The same will be done for insurance and healthcare and any other thing you can think of, all will be coming from the ministry's central funds. This will pertain to those that opt in completely, but for those that decide to provide for themselves for the most part, they'll be taken care of in conditions outside of the normal bounds of their provisions, in this way keeping them in the standard that they've set for their lives.
How is all this going to come about? I've no idea, but this is where my stepping out of the boat comes in. The LORD has led me to this set up and I've faith that HE shall bring it about. How and when, I've no idea, but I do know, it shall be as HE has shown me. If I were to lean on my own understandings, I'd be saying forget it and going to find me another means of making a living, but I don't, I trust in the LORD completely. It's HIS ministry, it's HIS leading and it's faith in HIS provision and guidance that will make this ministry into that which HE wills for it to be, not mine. This all sounds a bit crazy, I admit, but GOD isn't known for doing things in the normal ways. HE's known for doing things in ways that show HIS power and abilities to change things and make things out of conditions that most would think impossible. If I didn't have the amount of faith that HE's blessed me with, I'd be telling HIM "to find someone else to build this for YOU, because I don't see it happening." But I'm not, because i do believe in HIS ability to do anything HE deems.
Another aspect of the 1st century church that we must take note of, one that most may of forgotten about. That is, that they're willing to put their very lives on the line to serve and glorify the LORD. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. When it comes to their bringing glory to the LORD, it takes center stage and they give it their best and their all to accomplish this task. Right down to their very blood, sweat and tears. Giving their life if needed, to share the GOSPEL and to show the LORD's love for all of mankind. I'm talking about people here, that will go into extremely dangerous situations to save the life of another person. Kind of along the lines of firefighters, police officers or members of the military, those that are willing to give the ultimate sacrifice for their cause if need be. Not that everyone with the ministry will be in these kinds of conditions, but this is the heart that we seek our people to have, a true Christian spirit, one that knows that their rewards truly are awaiting them with the LORD and not here on earth.
So why am I telling you all this now? For one great reason, to serve CHRIST is to operate totally in the open, or as is spoken of today in ministry circles, ministry transparency. All the facts and figures are laid out for everyone that wants to see them, nothing, absolutely nothing is hidden. There won't be people in the future that will be able to say that funds were misappropriated by this ministry. Or that these facts weren't revealed in the beginning. Because here it is right before your eyes and the eyes of anyone that wants to check into this ministry. Every detail of this ministry will be open for anyone to see, every cent will be accounted for and all records will be constantly checked for accuracy, by numerous people. This will set this ministry apart from all others and also make it operate unlike any other of its type. Accurate records help to produce accurate results. No mess ups, like those that took place in most of the disaster responses anyone can recall. Just look at Haiti's earthquake response. Fifty groups, all doing their own thing, getting in each others way and delaying and at times even preventing the help from getting to those that needed it! More on these aspects will come at a later date, something for you to look forward to.
Now for the second part of this stepping out session. I'm currently living in a host family's home. I've been with this family for about six months now. It is time for us to begin gathering every sort of supply we can get our hands on. I've no earthly idea where anything would be put, but this is what I'm led to do and announce at this time. This means everything, and anything that you can imagine. From the smallest of office needs to heavy equipment and vehicles! You're hearing me right. If you've an old, working piece of equipment that you'd like to donate, do so. I mean it, this sounds crazy and believe me I know it does, but this is just as I'm being led. Somehow and someway the LORD is going to provide for a place to put it and have it ready to be used in whatever manor is needed. If you're wondering about this plea, don't worry you're not alone, because I can't even begin to imagine how this will be done. Both my personal bank account and the ministry's are tapped out. I've not the money to buy a piece of penny candy, let alone a storage yard or buildings, but this is that which I'm being led to do, so I'm doing it. I know this is stepping out in faith, BIG time, but this is how blessed with faith the LORD has made me. When all seems impossible, I know that HE can and will do what needs to be done, to bring HIS plans into fruition. This is the biggest step of faith I've ever even thought about making, but one I know in my very core of being, that GOD will make a way for it all to happen!!! So if you've extra office supplies laying around and you're being led to donate them, send them off. Computers, send them. Semi trucks and trailers, deliver them. Whatever the LORD is leading you to do in reference to this ministry, don't think twice about it, just do it. Someway, somehow, GOD is going to make this all work out to HIS ultimate glory. I know this all sounds like the rantings of a madman, if I am, it because I'm crazy about JESUS and want the whole world to know it. There is no better way to serve the LORD then in complete humility and trust. I don't care what a single person thinks about me or this ministry at this time, for they will see the truth about it in the near future, when the fruits of it begin to take shape and we're going in where even angels fear to tread, helping people in their greatest times of need and doing it all for the glory of JESUS CHRIST, our LORD and SAVIOR!!!
As always, I ask no one to do any of this without first putting it to prayer!!! Then and only then, if you're led to step out of the boat like I have, don't doubt in the least, just take the first step. Believe me there is nothing like knowing deep within your heart that what you've done is that which GOD has led you to do. Nothing on this earth can compare!!! So if you're on fire for the LORD and seeking a means of serving HIM like no other ever before brought together. This just may be where the LORD is leading you. So just ask HIM, not another person, but HIM alone and be willing to do all that HE's led for you to do. For to run the race, with your eyes firmly set on the rewards at the end is the goal that you seek and it is the one that only you can make the choice to strive for. So whether its carrying your cross around the globe or helping those in need. I just say, step out and never look back, for in trusting JESUS your life will never be the same again!!!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Stepping out again!!!
Praise the LORD!!!
The LORD has me stepping out of the boat again! This morning, though I've not a cent in my pockets, the LORD has led me to begin making announcements through the media and several other means. I've sent out notification of this to our area Chamber of Commerce and have signed on with several online marketing groups. So you may begin to see our logo at sites that you visit.
As I said this is only being done because of the LORD's leading. I've nothing to expend to cover the cost of even putting out a few fliers, let alone to cover the cost of a major advertising campaign! Plain and simple put, I've expend all my current funds on this ministry and have nothing else to offer, except my trust in HIS sovereignty. I trust the LORD more then I trust myself, so all I can say is praise the LORD and may THY will be done, for I've done as YOU've led and that alone.
Please keep the ministry and myself in your prayers, because I've no idea what tomorrow may bring. I do know this though, that with this ministry being totally of the LORD, it will become that which HE wills for it and nothing more.
Also don't forget our prayer email system, at: prayers@vineofchrist.org
May GOD bless all and may HE bless your day to bring forth fruit in abundance!!!
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
The LORD has me stepping out of the boat again! This morning, though I've not a cent in my pockets, the LORD has led me to begin making announcements through the media and several other means. I've sent out notification of this to our area Chamber of Commerce and have signed on with several online marketing groups. So you may begin to see our logo at sites that you visit.
As I said this is only being done because of the LORD's leading. I've nothing to expend to cover the cost of even putting out a few fliers, let alone to cover the cost of a major advertising campaign! Plain and simple put, I've expend all my current funds on this ministry and have nothing else to offer, except my trust in HIS sovereignty. I trust the LORD more then I trust myself, so all I can say is praise the LORD and may THY will be done, for I've done as YOU've led and that alone.
Please keep the ministry and myself in your prayers, because I've no idea what tomorrow may bring. I do know this though, that with this ministry being totally of the LORD, it will become that which HE wills for it and nothing more.
Also don't forget our prayer email system, at: prayers@vineofchrist.org
May GOD bless all and may HE bless your day to bring forth fruit in abundance!!!
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Friday, March 5, 2010
VCM, in need of your assistance...
Praise the LORD!!!
I pray that all are well and walking in relationship with the LORD today! VCM is in need of your assistance, but before I go on, I'd like you to pray for the LORD to open your eyes and hearts to what HE would have you to do!!!
Many of you that are reading this know of me and the ministry, if not, please follow the links to find out more. I have been striving to do that which the LORD has been leading me to daily and have been making great strides in accomplishing it all. Programs are beginning to take shape and I am beginning to gather a list of suppliers and equipment that will be needed to continue building the ministry. There are many, many great needs that are mounting each day that I continue to strive to fulfill the LORD's calling upon this ministry and my life.
There is the need to reach out and have the word spread about the ministry! I've been networking numerous of the social networks to increase the attention the ministry is getting online. There is the need to have this ministry before the eyes of as many as possible. With the hurricane season approaching, there is the chance that we will have works to do, helping people recover from that which nature has inflicted upon them. With as many as possible knowing about the ministry and the LORD's calling for us, to be there to assist in this process, it will help us to show the love of JESUS to many people. It would be awesome to have as many people out there telling their friends and neighbors, church family and coworkers about this ministry as possible. This can be done in many ways and takes very little effort to do, just a few words referencing the ministry and what the intents of it are. Maybe even giving them information that will lead them to one of our sites. All these will help to boost the visits to these sites, thus increasing it's search engine standings.
Next on the list, is our need for improve computing capacity. I've currently only one old ( '01') computer and it is greatly lacking in processing power. Due to it's age and limitations for expansion, it's not worth investing money into improving it. This was a great blessing to the ministry, because I had to leave my '04' system back in Ohio when I left on foot on this trip (details can be found on one of our sites.) I'm currently having to cleanup, defragment, both the hard drives and registry several times a week, just to keep it functioning online to some degree of efficiency. Anyone that has an old computer laying around, desktop or laptop we need several of each, we could truly use them to fulfill the LORD's calling. I'm currently restricted greatly from that which I can do, because of this system's problems handling graphics content of any degree. I've even problems when typing in blogs or any written material longer then a simple comment. If led to donate a system, please follow the LORD's leading, for it will help us truly make a difference in someone's life. There is no need to contact me, though a short email would be nice, just send it off. The mailing address will be posted later along in this posting.
Next, we're in need of people to volunteer their services in any way led. This could be to help us spread the word about the ministry, enlisting as a prayer warrior for our email prayer system, or even those that will want to volunteer in some other manor. These can be online or on foot, however you're led to. Though Kingsville is limited in it's areas of employment available, Corpus Christi (less then a half hours drive) isn't. Life here in Kingsville is enjoyable, though limited in the amenities, there is great room for growth. If any would be led to move to the area, I do believe you'll enjoy it's relaxed atmosphere and slower lifestyle. We've a population of just under 25,000 and I've yet to meet any that weren't friendly. There are numerous churches of varying denominations, so I'm sure you could find one to fellowship in. For more information on the area, just check into the Chamber of Commerce websites for the cities in the area, I'm sure these will give you more then enough information. Eventually plans for on site housing will be taken care of and we'll be able to house both temporary and full time volunteers at one of them eventually. You see, VCM is going to operate on the lines of the first century church, where we'll be more of a family, then a group of people just working together. Updates on this will be coming later as things begin to take shape.
Next, would be our need for tools and equipment. These cover a very large spectrum and it is hard to know where to start. Every sort of construction tool (power or hand), office supplies of all sorts, to Bibles and Christian literature (CD's and DVD's ). Considering the nature of the ministry and it's disaster relief operational plans, these could be filled by anything from a screwdriver to a piece of heavy equipment. Nothing imaginable would be turned down, unless it were in really bad shape. I've always stressed the fact that we as Christians are representing the LORD in that which we do, this includes what we donate to help others. When I first got out of the halfway house after prison, I was given some cookware, that I'd not feed a dog out of! They were trash and should of been treated as such, instead of being given to one trying to start life over again. That is why VCM will not give something to someone, that we wouldn't use ourselves.
Last on the list is the one I've not ever wanted to ask for and that is the monetary donation. I'll not promise, like so many do, that GOD will bless you greatly if you give "$99.95" to this ministry. Yes, GOD does bless those that bless others, but this is HIS choice and HIS alone!!! If you take a look at the programs that VCM has in it's plans and then start looking around at the cost of the materials to accomplish such feats, you'll see why we've this need. GOD has given me a vision of a Christian helps ministry, unlike anything ever before assembled. There are going to be branches of this ministry eventually reaching around the globe, covering many fields of work. All these will take time to accomplish and a great amount of funding and labor. But what the LORD has shown me is that it will happen and that the glory won't be ours, but HIS alone. Yes, people will know about us and all that we do, but they'll also know that we fully operate by and for the glory of the greatest ONE alive, JESUS!!!
Any physical donations can be sent to the following address:
I pray that all are well and walking in relationship with the LORD today! VCM is in need of your assistance, but before I go on, I'd like you to pray for the LORD to open your eyes and hearts to what HE would have you to do!!!
Many of you that are reading this know of me and the ministry, if not, please follow the links to find out more. I have been striving to do that which the LORD has been leading me to daily and have been making great strides in accomplishing it all. Programs are beginning to take shape and I am beginning to gather a list of suppliers and equipment that will be needed to continue building the ministry. There are many, many great needs that are mounting each day that I continue to strive to fulfill the LORD's calling upon this ministry and my life.
There is the need to reach out and have the word spread about the ministry! I've been networking numerous of the social networks to increase the attention the ministry is getting online. There is the need to have this ministry before the eyes of as many as possible. With the hurricane season approaching, there is the chance that we will have works to do, helping people recover from that which nature has inflicted upon them. With as many as possible knowing about the ministry and the LORD's calling for us, to be there to assist in this process, it will help us to show the love of JESUS to many people. It would be awesome to have as many people out there telling their friends and neighbors, church family and coworkers about this ministry as possible. This can be done in many ways and takes very little effort to do, just a few words referencing the ministry and what the intents of it are. Maybe even giving them information that will lead them to one of our sites. All these will help to boost the visits to these sites, thus increasing it's search engine standings.
Next on the list, is our need for improve computing capacity. I've currently only one old ( '01') computer and it is greatly lacking in processing power. Due to it's age and limitations for expansion, it's not worth investing money into improving it. This was a great blessing to the ministry, because I had to leave my '04' system back in Ohio when I left on foot on this trip (details can be found on one of our sites.) I'm currently having to cleanup, defragment, both the hard drives and registry several times a week, just to keep it functioning online to some degree of efficiency. Anyone that has an old computer laying around, desktop or laptop we need several of each, we could truly use them to fulfill the LORD's calling. I'm currently restricted greatly from that which I can do, because of this system's problems handling graphics content of any degree. I've even problems when typing in blogs or any written material longer then a simple comment. If led to donate a system, please follow the LORD's leading, for it will help us truly make a difference in someone's life. There is no need to contact me, though a short email would be nice, just send it off. The mailing address will be posted later along in this posting.
Next, we're in need of people to volunteer their services in any way led. This could be to help us spread the word about the ministry, enlisting as a prayer warrior for our email prayer system, or even those that will want to volunteer in some other manor. These can be online or on foot, however you're led to. Though Kingsville is limited in it's areas of employment available, Corpus Christi (less then a half hours drive) isn't. Life here in Kingsville is enjoyable, though limited in the amenities, there is great room for growth. If any would be led to move to the area, I do believe you'll enjoy it's relaxed atmosphere and slower lifestyle. We've a population of just under 25,000 and I've yet to meet any that weren't friendly. There are numerous churches of varying denominations, so I'm sure you could find one to fellowship in. For more information on the area, just check into the Chamber of Commerce websites for the cities in the area, I'm sure these will give you more then enough information. Eventually plans for on site housing will be taken care of and we'll be able to house both temporary and full time volunteers at one of them eventually. You see, VCM is going to operate on the lines of the first century church, where we'll be more of a family, then a group of people just working together. Updates on this will be coming later as things begin to take shape.
Next, would be our need for tools and equipment. These cover a very large spectrum and it is hard to know where to start. Every sort of construction tool (power or hand), office supplies of all sorts, to Bibles and Christian literature (CD's and DVD's ). Considering the nature of the ministry and it's disaster relief operational plans, these could be filled by anything from a screwdriver to a piece of heavy equipment. Nothing imaginable would be turned down, unless it were in really bad shape. I've always stressed the fact that we as Christians are representing the LORD in that which we do, this includes what we donate to help others. When I first got out of the halfway house after prison, I was given some cookware, that I'd not feed a dog out of! They were trash and should of been treated as such, instead of being given to one trying to start life over again. That is why VCM will not give something to someone, that we wouldn't use ourselves.
Last on the list is the one I've not ever wanted to ask for and that is the monetary donation. I'll not promise, like so many do, that GOD will bless you greatly if you give "$99.95" to this ministry. Yes, GOD does bless those that bless others, but this is HIS choice and HIS alone!!! If you take a look at the programs that VCM has in it's plans and then start looking around at the cost of the materials to accomplish such feats, you'll see why we've this need. GOD has given me a vision of a Christian helps ministry, unlike anything ever before assembled. There are going to be branches of this ministry eventually reaching around the globe, covering many fields of work. All these will take time to accomplish and a great amount of funding and labor. But what the LORD has shown me is that it will happen and that the glory won't be ours, but HIS alone. Yes, people will know about us and all that we do, but they'll also know that we fully operate by and for the glory of the greatest ONE alive, JESUS!!!
Any physical donations can be sent to the following address:
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
c/o Rev. Marshall Barth
204 Otis St.
Kingsville, TX.,78363
Email inquiries and other contacts, please use:
contacts@vineofchrist.org
I must stress this again, I ask that whomever takes this under consideration, to please first pray and ask the LORD to lead you in how HE and HE alone wants you to assist this ministry of HIS. The ministry is not mine at all, everything that is in plans for it, has been given to me, as a servant to all, by HIS leading alone. I want no glory for myself, but want all that ever is done by this ministry to bring nothing but glory to the precious name of JESUS. If I am to work this by myself, until I take my last breath here on earth, so be it, for I accept it as HIS will. But I do not believe at all, that HE has given me these great visions and filled my heart with such compassion, as to let it be expended on the little that I've been able to accomplish. If you want to see that which I've been doing so far, do a search of my name or one of my user names (revbarth, hisson1, hisson7, hisson33, Rev. Marshall Barth, Vine of CHRIST Ministries or Vine Ministerial Network International), and I'm sure you will find enough to let you know I am sold out to this calling.
I want to thank you for your time, if you've read this far and thank you for even considering helping me to achieve that which the LORD has set before me. May GOD bless you and guide you in these matters and may you listen to HIS still quiet voice and do as HE leads!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine Ministerial Network International
p.s. If any of you are in need of prayer, please email your request to:
Monday, February 22, 2010
"Notes from the Vine" March 2010 VCM Newsletter
A message of warning!!!
Praise the LORD!!!
I pray that all are well and growing in their faith. For truly I am greatly concerned, for the many that claim faith in JESUS CHRIST. For there are many out there that would enlist you to follow their words and teaching and not that of the MASTER!!! I’ve been spending a lot of time online as of late; due to the weather here is south Texas. I’ve over five hundred follower/friends on the two largest social networks and they all know that I’m a Christian and proud of this fact. If you’re reading this, there is a high likelihood that you’ve come here from knowledge of me or the ministry at one of these sites. Then again it could be from one of the other dozen or so that I visit and post on also.I have a good number of people that request I enlist them as friends, which usually I will do, after just briefly checking out their personal sites. With the current state of the ministry’s computer, I’m limited to the sites I can visit, due to the graphics content of them. Not that it’s pornographic or of a violent nature, but the amount of graphics on them. This system doesn’t handle a lot of graphics well and begins to slow down greatly or freeze completely up. Si, I will take a very brief glance at the wording of their speech and symbolism that the site contains. If it shows anything resembling a Christian nature I will allow them in as friends. Then it is up to them to remain on the site by not falling outside the bounds of decency and good moral judgment. To date, I’ve but knocked off two people that have joined as friends. The LORD has blessed me here greatly!
Now to the point of this article: I have met more people that are preaching false doctrines then I’ve ever met before. There are those that believe in the redeeming sacrifice of JESUS, but not HIS teachings. Grouping the WORDS of JESUS and the apostle’s as only being applied to the Hebrews and no one else. They believe that the apostle Paul’s teaching are the only thing that gentile Christians should follow. These people start from the fact of errors within the translation of the Bible from the original text, which there are a good number of, but then they use their own slightly different wording to adapt it to their own beliefs. The basis of this is that all are saved by CHRIST crucifixion alone and there is no need of a person’s confession, repentance or acceptance of anything else. I other words, you are saved whether you want to be or not, no matter what kinds of heinous sins you’ve committed, you are guaranteed salvation and a place in heaven.
There is another group that follow after a man that claims to of received direct revelations from GOD and still does to this very day in all aspects of the Christian faith and the soon return and judgment of the LORD upon all others beliefs. Now this is a fairly small group at this time, but there are many that have grown tired of fodder that is preached in mainstream Christian churches and are seeking after a quick return of the LORD. In this school of thought, they’re taking scripture, mostly prophetic, and adding more words to it to make matters seem more grave and judgmental.
Another of these groups consists of the new apostles and prophets, preaching out of the Book of Enoch. These follow along the lines of basic Christianity and the doctrines of the church, yet say that if one doesn’t follow after the teachings of their ‘apostolic governance’ and authority they’re condemned and completely forsaken by GOD. These utter long lines of their apostle’s teaching and adhere to all that they teach and preach for fear of falling out of grace with GOD. Their words are luxurious and finely tempered with scripture, but with many words added within to draw new mean from within it. According to these, every denomination out there is wrong in their beliefs and we should all turn and follow their apostles and prophets. They will take any scripture that one places before them and use it right back against the person with but a few words added or subtracted.
There other groups that I could go into, but for brevity I will keep it to these. Two things that all of these groups are very potent in, is their understanding of that which they follow and the understanding of scripture as taught by the Bible. Not just our Bible, but those that they claim to be better then ours. I have talked with members of all thee groups and seen firsthand how they can take scripture placed before them and twisted it, or disprove it to suit their whim. This is a very sure sign of a cult and one that all Christians should be aware of.
I am a firm believer in the fact that we as Christians should be well versed in the Bible. We should not just read it, but dive deeply into every knock and cranny of it to understand it to the great depth possible. In other words, we should study to find ourselves approved. Being able to stand strong against any that try to change that which we believe, and also being able to disprove the errors of their teachings. This is a big task, especially considering the amount of time these kinds of groups have enlisted to studying their beliefs. I have found that some of these have great piles of ‘teaching’ lying at their side, ready to find the needed information to stand against whatever you’ve placed before them. I’ve even gone as far to find their sources and read massive quantities of these myself, so as to better understand what they insist is the truth.
I will now ask of all those that read this, to start honing your skills in the apologetics of our faith. Start diving deeper into scripture then you ever have before. Doing all this with the leading and guidance of the HOLY SPIRIT and not depending upon your own wits or intelligence. There is a very well trained enemy out there, one that can weaken the faith of all but the most astute scholar, let alone one depending on their own strengths and not that of the LORD. So, pick up your sword and sharpen it well, honing it’s edge to the finest it can be and prepare yourself, for the battle for true Christianity has begun and many are those against us. Our swords must be sharpened and our armor polished, for the battle will be great. Though we know the outcome and we fight the battle well, there may be many that fall at the wayside if we don’t lead them into a fuller and more perfect understanding of what it means to be a CHRISTian!!!
This month in ministry
There has also been other graphics works being worked on, some are posted around our sites and at other places online and others yet completed. The current daily devotional has been going well, with a post for almost every day in the last month. Thank YOU LORD, for it is only by HIS grace that this was accomplished. There has been few blogs other wise from me, though there has been several posted or re posted.
We now have a new member on board with the ministry. Donna Duncan has come on board to assist with the email prayer line. Though she lives out of state we’ve set up a means of her praying for those that enlist us for their prayer needs. Thank you Donna and welcome on board.
The greatest amount of time has been spent on organizing our international branches. Team Liberia has had phenomenal growth this past month. We now have over twenty members, a board of trustees and several of these are ordained ministers willing to add to their calling for the LORD’s work through them. Thank you all and may GOD continue to bless this movement to win hearts and souls for the KINGDOM of GOD in the name of JESUS CHRIST!!!
There have been several changes to the website; several slide shows have been added to pages. The work isn’t the best and this is due to several factors: 1 my personal inabilities in graphics, layout and design; 2. the computer system’s inability to render graphics well; 3. the need for an improved web service, whether a better package ($) through Office Live or a different service provider altogether or maybe just someone that has a better knowledge of this system of programming.
One thing is for certain, Vine of CHRIST Ministries is growing, but there is a long way still to go and until others begin to catch the vision, this will not happen. So I ask you, please pray for the LORD to open your eyes about the truths behind this ministry and to that which HE would have you do to help in its growth. There are many great needs that can only be met when others from the KINGDOM of GOD here on earth catch the vision of sharing the love of CHRIST to those in need!!! If you feel the LORD calling you to help, don’t ask me or another person, just do it. Take the risk and just step out of the boat and trust the LORD to fully take care of you in the works that HE has called you to!!!
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