Praise the LORD!!!
Truly I don't know what to call this entry for today. Whether an addition to the newsletter for the month, a addition to our "About us" page on the web site or what. It is something that I'm being inspired to write, as with all my writings, none the less!
When GOD began revealing HIS ministry for me, back in August of '97', I had many a question for HIM. Many of these were like those you too may be wondering about. I will do my best to answer as many of them as possible, in the same manor in which I was led to understand them.
- Why a ministry covering so many areas of Christian helps?
For so many years, more like centuries, Christians have been laying aside the burden GOD has for mankind. Laying them on the secular world's shoulders instead of picking them up and bearing the burdens with HIS help. Yes, there are many ministries out there that accomplish a great deal of these in their ministries and for a part of them, the glory does go to GOD. But there is a larger percentage of this work that, even though done by Christians, the glory doesn't go to GOD, but to the group themselves! In all rights, when a Christian accomplishes a work, the glory is suppose to go to HE that gave them the desire and ability to do such. Now a days, we see many groups that pay thousands of dollars to promote their causes before the eyes of the world. Yet few of these promote the name of the LORD which blessed them to be able to accomplish these feats. This is why, even after three years of working on the gulf coast doing rebuilding after the '05' hurricane season, you'll find no signs that VCM had been there. You've seen no advertisements, the only reason you may know of these works is because of our web site. The only reason you know of it, is because GOD has led you to find it through one means or another. I've spent not one cent on advertising or promotion for the ministry. All has been done through word of mouth, either my words or the words of those helped.
With many of the large Christian ministries, as with the secular organizations, millions of dollars are spent each year for paid advertising. VCM will not do this, we won't even ask for donations at our sites. What we will do is simple. We will state the facts about the current state of the ministry and those works that we're undertaking and ask you to pray over these matters and follow the LORD's leading. This ministry is about JESUS and the fact that HE is our ultimate source for all!!! HE is the vine and we are the branches. HE leads and inspires and we follow and do. Plain and simple. We are non denominational so have no religious organization to receive funding from. All funds will come through those that are led to do so. This may sound highly unusual, but I place my faith totally in the LORD's ample hands and know that what HE has called me to, HE will provide the means to fulfill them. No if ands or buts to it, I totally trust the LORD!!!!!!!
Current works that are being set up are the first central office and disaster relief operational center (DROC.) Going has been slow, but all things happen in GOD's timing and will only progress as HE wills them to. There are several vacant buildings here in Kingsville that would fit the needs of the ministry and I've been doing research on these. One is the old hospital near the center of town and the other is an old furniture store several blocks away. The hospital would work well as offices and DROC operations. whereas the other would be a prime location for warehousing the supplies and equipment needed for the centers. There is still a lot to be found out about both of these, but all will happen when it is time.
VCM will have mobile food and medical units that will be designed to provide their appointed needs in the most effective means possible. Our operation will not be like those we've been witnessing lately, where it seems like no one knows whats going on. These, as with all our operations, will function to a very high level of efficiency. After all it is our purpose to show those in need the love JESUS has for them, by the works of our hands. You can't do this is if every thing doesn't function properly and with much fore thought put into it.
Eventually there will be other DROC's around the country, I've been shown fifteen different locations to date. Three will be spaced out along the gulf coast and the rest around the continental U.S. This is for the purpose of quick response times. All will be within a twenty four hour drive time from another. When a disaster happens not only will the closest center respond, but also those within an operational circle, which will be set up as other locations come into operational status. There will not be any of the waiting, as we've seen, for supplies to be ordered and shipped, equipment and supplies will already be on hand and allocated to the areas in need. We will have supplies moving towards a disaster even before it has taken place and most likely people in the area while it is happening.
How can all this happen? By the grace if GOD and that which HE's shown me. This ministry is going to have a very large infrastructure and one that is highly organized. It will operate along the lines of a military, with numerous branches, all working together towards one common purpose. This is most likely the reason that I've been working at setting up this ministry for over twelve years now. I've had my hands taught many of the needed skills to bring this all together by working in the many fields required to make this all happen. I've felt the power of the elements and witnessed first hand the lack of controlled efforts to provide relief. I've gone in and done the cleanup and rebuilding. I've witnessed and listen to those that have been on the ground at many of the recent disasters. I've been constantly learning more and more everyday about what works and what doesn't and will put it all to use. When will this all happen? Only the LORD knows for sure and like this article, will happen by HIS leading!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Monday, August 30, 2010
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A Carrot, an egg and coffee
Praise the LORD!!!
A little something that was forwarded to me, that I've thought some may truly enjoy. Especially if facing tough times, trials or tribulations! Enjoy:)))
A little something that was forwarded to me, that I've thought some may truly enjoy. Especially if facing tough times, trials or tribulations! Enjoy:)))
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Five year since...
Praise the LORD!!!
It has been five years since hurricanes Katrina and Rita wrecked havoc upon the gulf coast! For those of you that know me, you know that I was living in Iowa, La. during these storms. My accounts of what went on during these storms can be found all over the internet. This isn't the reason for this posting though. It's not to bring up the past, for I live in today, striving to change the future of disaster relief.
Though the face of disaster relief has changed a good bit, it is still far from that which it should(and will) be. If you've stayed tuned in on relief operations to the many disaster since '05', like I have, you'll know that there have been vast improvements in the efforts to respond as quickly and efficiently as possible. Which is a very good thing. There hasn't been an improvement in the overall logistics of these vast undertakings though. Yes, large amounts of money and supplies are donated in a timely manor, but it is their getting distributed to those in need that is really lacking improvement. We saw this in response to the Haitian earthquake and are seeing it in other disasters around the globe.
I've watched videos of the relief efforts in Pakistan dealing with the current flooding and am horrified at how they're delivering the relief. There seems to be a 'dog eat dog' mentality in the distribution methods. They pull up to crowds of people and begin throwing the supplies to them. People begin to scramble for whatever they can grab a hold of. The neediest of all(sick,aged and injured) are left to pick up whatever was left behind. In my personal opinion, this is totally wrong in many ways. Those that are in greatest of need should be the first to receive, not the other way around. Formal food and medical set ups need to be provided in the quickest means possible. Yes, it does take time to set up a food service operation to feed thousands of people, but in doing so you're making sure that those truly in need aren't left to fend for themselves.
This is why VCM is working on developing a strategic logistics system. One that will set up quickly and operate efficiently no matter what the emergency. We a Christians have a very high calling to preform differently then those operations of world relief groups. We have the calling to preform everything we do to a level that will bring glory to the name of JESUS first and foremost!!! GOD is a perfectionist and our systems must function in the best manor possible, as close to 'GOD-like' as humanly possible. This can only be accomplished by our remaining firmly seated in our beliefs and adherence to HIS principles set forth for us in scripture. As VCM continues to develop, we'll strive to remain strong in our core beliefs and show the love of JESUS to all of mankind through our proficiency and the labor of our hands. This is a high calling and one that I personally will strive to meet with every breath that I take on earth!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Please don't forget, that if you're in need of some prayer, we've a email prayer system set up. Email us at: prayers@vineofchrist.org
It has been five years since hurricanes Katrina and Rita wrecked havoc upon the gulf coast! For those of you that know me, you know that I was living in Iowa, La. during these storms. My accounts of what went on during these storms can be found all over the internet. This isn't the reason for this posting though. It's not to bring up the past, for I live in today, striving to change the future of disaster relief.
Though the face of disaster relief has changed a good bit, it is still far from that which it should(and will) be. If you've stayed tuned in on relief operations to the many disaster since '05', like I have, you'll know that there have been vast improvements in the efforts to respond as quickly and efficiently as possible. Which is a very good thing. There hasn't been an improvement in the overall logistics of these vast undertakings though. Yes, large amounts of money and supplies are donated in a timely manor, but it is their getting distributed to those in need that is really lacking improvement. We saw this in response to the Haitian earthquake and are seeing it in other disasters around the globe.
I've watched videos of the relief efforts in Pakistan dealing with the current flooding and am horrified at how they're delivering the relief. There seems to be a 'dog eat dog' mentality in the distribution methods. They pull up to crowds of people and begin throwing the supplies to them. People begin to scramble for whatever they can grab a hold of. The neediest of all(sick,aged and injured) are left to pick up whatever was left behind. In my personal opinion, this is totally wrong in many ways. Those that are in greatest of need should be the first to receive, not the other way around. Formal food and medical set ups need to be provided in the quickest means possible. Yes, it does take time to set up a food service operation to feed thousands of people, but in doing so you're making sure that those truly in need aren't left to fend for themselves.
This is why VCM is working on developing a strategic logistics system. One that will set up quickly and operate efficiently no matter what the emergency. We a Christians have a very high calling to preform differently then those operations of world relief groups. We have the calling to preform everything we do to a level that will bring glory to the name of JESUS first and foremost!!! GOD is a perfectionist and our systems must function in the best manor possible, as close to 'GOD-like' as humanly possible. This can only be accomplished by our remaining firmly seated in our beliefs and adherence to HIS principles set forth for us in scripture. As VCM continues to develop, we'll strive to remain strong in our core beliefs and show the love of JESUS to all of mankind through our proficiency and the labor of our hands. This is a high calling and one that I personally will strive to meet with every breath that I take on earth!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Please don't forget, that if you're in need of some prayer, we've a email prayer system set up. Email us at: prayers@vineofchrist.org
Monday, August 9, 2010
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***
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***
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Who is our enemy?
Praise the LORD!!!
(I've written this as led, it is unedited and maybe a little hard to understand. I pray, that you'll pray and ask JESUS to reveal HIS truth in these matters unto you and that then you also will seek to fulfill the "Great Commission" with every breath of the life that you're blessed with!!!)
This morning I'm off from work due to my knee bothering me. Not of my doing, but given the time by one of my human bosses. If yo know me very well, you're know that I fully believe that that there is no such thing as chance and that GOD has a reason for all things happening!
With this stated I'll lead you on my journey this morning and what has prompted this entry! While running a search for information on a school (Bible) I happened along an unrelated article on the "Bohemian Grove," and the "Illuminati." Now I'm not the most fluent on these groups, though I've heard of both and their dark secrets, plus their ties with (shall we say) the dark forces in our world! Following up on one of the links I was led to YouTube and a series of videos. These were on "The Mysteries of Molech." Now if you don't remember Molech, he was the Ammonites god to whom they sacrificed their children. It was forbidden for any of the Hebrew nation to worship him or even follow after the practices of this cult(ure.) Numerous times throughout Jewish history though these practices came to be practiced.
What does this have to do with today though? Especially considering that these practices have basically disappeared from existence. They truly haven't disappeared, but gone under the cover of darkness(from where they sprang.) These practices are in direct opposition to anything GODly and completely banned in scripture by GOD HIMSELF. All of their practices are of the forces of darkness and from the early writings have been warned against. What do these practices have to do with Christians living today? These are the forces that are wrecking havoc upon our faith, bringing division among the churches and moving behind the 'great men of power.'
If you watch these videos, you'll be able to see and hear for yourself the list of names mentioned. These are people that literally hold the power of this world in their hands. I ask that you pray before watching these, as I did, so that the LORD will grace you with the knowledge that HE wills for you to gather and the wisdom to put it to use in HIS chosen way! Most of you know about many of the topics and groups mentioned in these and know that our world is falling apart at the seams. But it is not this that we should worry about, for these things are being allowed to happen, it is to know the fact(signs) and to be about our calling(work) more diligently then ever!!! We need to stop fighting among ourselves, over mere doctrines of men, and begin seeking to fulfill the "Great Commission" more earnestly!!! We cannot change that which GOD has ordained to happen, because they'll all bring about HIS plan for the KINGDOM in the end.(I know people will disagree with this, but it must be said.) People think, and teach that evil just happened, by chance and that GOD had nothing to do with it. This would make our GOD out to be less then that which HE is. It would place the powers of darkness in a position almost equal to GOD. This is impossible!!!
Lucifer was created by GOD and when HE did so, HE knew exactly what was going to happen. It wasn't by chance that this happened either. GOD knows that for good to be known, relished and sought after, there must be an opposite force to judge it against, so there must be "darkness/evil." Ever since the very beginning of creation there have been the two, LIGHT and darkness, the two totally opposing forces in life. For where one is the other is not present. darkness cannot exist where there is LIGHT. All throughout scripture we're told this and especially within the New Testament. We as Christians must realize that we're called to be obedient to JESUS in every aspect of our lives and we must strive, with the LORD help, to bring this about within our lives. In this world where there is so much happening that is in direct conflict with the teachings of JESUS, we're to be the ones that represent HIM in our totally being. Not partially, but totally, wholeheartedly and with every breath of our existence. This morning GOD has blessed me with a renewed vigor, not to fight against that which only HE can battle, but to reach out and communicate HIS GOSPEL to all of mankind. With HIS help I can stand against those forces against me, not to battle against, but to reveal the true LIGHT unto a world that is covered in darkness. JESUS is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIGHT that will conquer all that is opposed to GOD. Let us do our part, each and everyday, to bring the LIGHT into the lives of all mankind!!!!!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
(I've written this as led, it is unedited and maybe a little hard to understand. I pray, that you'll pray and ask JESUS to reveal HIS truth in these matters unto you and that then you also will seek to fulfill the "Great Commission" with every breath of the life that you're blessed with!!!)
This morning I'm off from work due to my knee bothering me. Not of my doing, but given the time by one of my human bosses. If yo know me very well, you're know that I fully believe that that there is no such thing as chance and that GOD has a reason for all things happening!
With this stated I'll lead you on my journey this morning and what has prompted this entry! While running a search for information on a school (Bible) I happened along an unrelated article on the "Bohemian Grove," and the "Illuminati." Now I'm not the most fluent on these groups, though I've heard of both and their dark secrets, plus their ties with (shall we say) the dark forces in our world! Following up on one of the links I was led to YouTube and a series of videos. These were on "The Mysteries of Molech." Now if you don't remember Molech, he was the Ammonites god to whom they sacrificed their children. It was forbidden for any of the Hebrew nation to worship him or even follow after the practices of this cult(ure.) Numerous times throughout Jewish history though these practices came to be practiced.
What does this have to do with today though? Especially considering that these practices have basically disappeared from existence. They truly haven't disappeared, but gone under the cover of darkness(from where they sprang.) These practices are in direct opposition to anything GODly and completely banned in scripture by GOD HIMSELF. All of their practices are of the forces of darkness and from the early writings have been warned against. What do these practices have to do with Christians living today? These are the forces that are wrecking havoc upon our faith, bringing division among the churches and moving behind the 'great men of power.'
If you watch these videos, you'll be able to see and hear for yourself the list of names mentioned. These are people that literally hold the power of this world in their hands. I ask that you pray before watching these, as I did, so that the LORD will grace you with the knowledge that HE wills for you to gather and the wisdom to put it to use in HIS chosen way! Most of you know about many of the topics and groups mentioned in these and know that our world is falling apart at the seams. But it is not this that we should worry about, for these things are being allowed to happen, it is to know the fact(signs) and to be about our calling(work) more diligently then ever!!! We need to stop fighting among ourselves, over mere doctrines of men, and begin seeking to fulfill the "Great Commission" more earnestly!!! We cannot change that which GOD has ordained to happen, because they'll all bring about HIS plan for the KINGDOM in the end.(I know people will disagree with this, but it must be said.) People think, and teach that evil just happened, by chance and that GOD had nothing to do with it. This would make our GOD out to be less then that which HE is. It would place the powers of darkness in a position almost equal to GOD. This is impossible!!!
Lucifer was created by GOD and when HE did so, HE knew exactly what was going to happen. It wasn't by chance that this happened either. GOD knows that for good to be known, relished and sought after, there must be an opposite force to judge it against, so there must be "darkness/evil." Ever since the very beginning of creation there have been the two, LIGHT and darkness, the two totally opposing forces in life. For where one is the other is not present. darkness cannot exist where there is LIGHT. All throughout scripture we're told this and especially within the New Testament. We as Christians must realize that we're called to be obedient to JESUS in every aspect of our lives and we must strive, with the LORD help, to bring this about within our lives. In this world where there is so much happening that is in direct conflict with the teachings of JESUS, we're to be the ones that represent HIM in our totally being. Not partially, but totally, wholeheartedly and with every breath of our existence. This morning GOD has blessed me with a renewed vigor, not to fight against that which only HE can battle, but to reach out and communicate HIS GOSPEL to all of mankind. With HIS help I can stand against those forces against me, not to battle against, but to reveal the true LIGHT unto a world that is covered in darkness. JESUS is the WAY, the TRUTH and the LIGHT that will conquer all that is opposed to GOD. Let us do our part, each and everyday, to bring the LIGHT into the lives of all mankind!!!!!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Saturday, July 24, 2010
A new day!
Praise the LORD!!!
Good day. I pray that the LORD has blessed you with the power and strength to bring glory to HIS precious and holy name. For too often we have been blessed with another day of life and yet fail to bring glory to HIM that has blessed us with it!
I'm saying this as the month of July comes to an end and it has been one that I've managed to do little to bring glory to the name of JESUS. This month has been a rough one. I'm working for two different reality companies as a maintenance man. Doing apartment turnovers for both. Almost everyday in this last month Kingsville has had one hundred degree plus heat indexes. For the most part they've been over the '105' mark, which is the point of an 'heat advisory' being issued.
If you know the way I work, you'd know why this really takes it out of me. With my belief in doing everything as if unto the LORD, besides a tendency to do thing to the best of my ability, I work as if there is no tomorrow. I usually don't take a lunch break and am constantly going at the task at hand! Seldom even stopping to think over progress, just going at it until it is done. With this type of work ethic it is needless to say that I've become a commodity for my employers. No sooner am I finished with one job and I'm hustled off to another one. Many times I'm getting a call from one boss while working at the other one's site, being asked when I'll be able to undertake something for them. Many a night I drag myself in with barely enough strength and ambition to whip up dinner and take a shower nearly just collapsing out of exhaustion.
My prayers of late have been for the LORD to provide the needed resources so I'll be able to stop working for 'men' and go totally at HIS ministry for me. I'd be putting this exact type of effort into the work, if not even more. Though when working for 'men' my work and attitude reflects my love for the LORD. If blessed to be only doing the works for HIM, the middle men would be cut out and all would be completely to HIS glory. What is holding these works for HIM alone up? But one thing, the support and funding needed to survive . This would be a total of around a thousand dollars per month. This though would be just to maintain everything as it is, not to be posting an increase for the ministry! This doesn't sound like much to most people, for they spend far more than this monthly. I'm single, no family living with me, no transportation(I walk everywhere or am given rides,) and though our computer system is five years old, its working fine for the moment. I've few tools to manage the work that I'm doing, but far from those truly needed to accomplish the work. But the LORD has blessed me with being able to accomplish much, with little. A kind of 'multiplying of the fish and loaves.' Though this is far from that which I'd figured the LORD would have this ministry doing by now, I'm content with it. For I know, though I can't see the reasons behind it, that it is HIS will for me at this time.
For those of you not familiar with my beliefs, I believe that there is nothing under the sun that isn't happening according to GOD's ultimate plan for mankind. I know this stands against many a person's theology and don't care. It is what the LORD has blessed me to understand of HIS character and I'll make no amends to it. I've heard many state beliefs in contrast to this and won't argue with them over it. My life has been a conglomeration of the works of GOD, a mix of good and bad together and all of them have come, in the end, to bring glory to JESUS' name. I can show you in the Bible hundreds of places where GOD allowed tragic events to happen, only so that in the end, it is to HIS glory and not those of man! Just look at the book of Genesis alone, or maybe Exodus. The point is, GOD's ways are different then our's, far differing and there is no way humanly possible for us to even begin to understand why HE allows things to happen. We need to learn to just accept that which is and always will be the truth; that the GOD WHO created the universe and all that dwells within it can do whatever HE wants. We as merely created beings, are totally in HIS hands and must accept HIS will and way for and within our lives.
The point of this whole article, is simple. I've been working on VCM for twelve plus years to get it to this point and if it is the LORD's will that I work it, in same manor, for the next twelve plus, "I will do so!!!" May all be to the glory, honor, praise and worship of the greatest name in all existence, JESUS the CHRIST!!!!!!!
Good day and GOD bless,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Good day. I pray that the LORD has blessed you with the power and strength to bring glory to HIS precious and holy name. For too often we have been blessed with another day of life and yet fail to bring glory to HIM that has blessed us with it!
I'm saying this as the month of July comes to an end and it has been one that I've managed to do little to bring glory to the name of JESUS. This month has been a rough one. I'm working for two different reality companies as a maintenance man. Doing apartment turnovers for both. Almost everyday in this last month Kingsville has had one hundred degree plus heat indexes. For the most part they've been over the '105' mark, which is the point of an 'heat advisory' being issued.
If you know the way I work, you'd know why this really takes it out of me. With my belief in doing everything as if unto the LORD, besides a tendency to do thing to the best of my ability, I work as if there is no tomorrow. I usually don't take a lunch break and am constantly going at the task at hand! Seldom even stopping to think over progress, just going at it until it is done. With this type of work ethic it is needless to say that I've become a commodity for my employers. No sooner am I finished with one job and I'm hustled off to another one. Many times I'm getting a call from one boss while working at the other one's site, being asked when I'll be able to undertake something for them. Many a night I drag myself in with barely enough strength and ambition to whip up dinner and take a shower nearly just collapsing out of exhaustion.
My prayers of late have been for the LORD to provide the needed resources so I'll be able to stop working for 'men' and go totally at HIS ministry for me. I'd be putting this exact type of effort into the work, if not even more. Though when working for 'men' my work and attitude reflects my love for the LORD. If blessed to be only doing the works for HIM, the middle men would be cut out and all would be completely to HIS glory. What is holding these works for HIM alone up? But one thing, the support and funding needed to survive . This would be a total of around a thousand dollars per month. This though would be just to maintain everything as it is, not to be posting an increase for the ministry! This doesn't sound like much to most people, for they spend far more than this monthly. I'm single, no family living with me, no transportation(I walk everywhere or am given rides,) and though our computer system is five years old, its working fine for the moment. I've few tools to manage the work that I'm doing, but far from those truly needed to accomplish the work. But the LORD has blessed me with being able to accomplish much, with little. A kind of 'multiplying of the fish and loaves.' Though this is far from that which I'd figured the LORD would have this ministry doing by now, I'm content with it. For I know, though I can't see the reasons behind it, that it is HIS will for me at this time.
For those of you not familiar with my beliefs, I believe that there is nothing under the sun that isn't happening according to GOD's ultimate plan for mankind. I know this stands against many a person's theology and don't care. It is what the LORD has blessed me to understand of HIS character and I'll make no amends to it. I've heard many state beliefs in contrast to this and won't argue with them over it. My life has been a conglomeration of the works of GOD, a mix of good and bad together and all of them have come, in the end, to bring glory to JESUS' name. I can show you in the Bible hundreds of places where GOD allowed tragic events to happen, only so that in the end, it is to HIS glory and not those of man! Just look at the book of Genesis alone, or maybe Exodus. The point is, GOD's ways are different then our's, far differing and there is no way humanly possible for us to even begin to understand why HE allows things to happen. We need to learn to just accept that which is and always will be the truth; that the GOD WHO created the universe and all that dwells within it can do whatever HE wants. We as merely created beings, are totally in HIS hands and must accept HIS will and way for and within our lives.
The point of this whole article, is simple. I've been working on VCM for twelve plus years to get it to this point and if it is the LORD's will that I work it, in same manor, for the next twelve plus, "I will do so!!!" May all be to the glory, honor, praise and worship of the greatest name in all existence, JESUS the CHRIST!!!!!!!
Good day and GOD bless,
Rev. Marshall Barth
Vine of CHRIST Ministries
Vine Ministerial Network International
Saturday, July 3, 2010
VineNotes
If you've noticed the change in the name, this is the original name that was intended for our newsletter.
We will be using this from this point onward!
Praise the LORD!!!
I pray that everyone is well and being greatly blessed by the LORD at this time. I've been off line for some time and not able to take care of any, online, ministry items at all. This was a bit hard to handle given the amount of time I'd been working on setting up our online presence! As of the 27th of June though, this was remedied. The reason for being off line was my move from a host family's home into an apartment of my own. As most of you may know, this brings a great number of cost along with it and I've been working two jobs to take care of these. This in itself has left little time for taking care of ministry issues, but the LORD has blessed me with being able to take care of most of these fairly quickly.
During the last month I've run into a good number of people with their own small ministries. The exact reason for this the LORD only knows, but you can know that I'm keeping my eyes and ears open to HIS reasoning for this. I've learned, over the years, that nothing that happens just happens. In other words, there is no such thing as chance or luck or fate. All things are ordained by GOD to bring about HIS perfect will for mankind and the KINGDOM. This even includes tragic events. Yes folks, GOD does allow bad things to happen to good people and HE has reasoning for these events. For many years I believed that GOD is only a GOD of love and that HE'd not allow anything bad to happen to us or within our lives. That satan was the one that brought about all the tragedy within the world. But then GOD taught me a lesson, through scripture and events, that opened my eyes to the truth on this matter.
For many years our teachers have been directing us along these lines. Teaching that GOD never allows any harm to come to Christians or even the world to be a fact. This has blinded many to the truth, truth taught within the annuals of the Holy Bible. Isaiah 45:7 points this out, plain as day! A simple reading of the Old Testament will also show many events along these lines. For example, look at the events of Moses' life, when he was confronting Pharaoh. How many times do we find GOD telling him that "HE will" bring about some tragic event? Too many to count if you take into account the whole of the "OT." If GOD is the same yesterday, today and forever"(Heb. 13:8), to dispute this would be to call GOD a liar and everything we Christian believe a lie! In Exodus 14:11, GOD HIMSELF tells us this very same fact. HE has caused events which we deem tragic(is not blindness, muteness and dumbness tragic(?)) to take place. I personally don't know when this shift in our doctrine or theology took place, but I know it is wrong! It is basically giving the adversary more power over existence then he even deserves. I'll leave this matter at this time for I could really begin a sermon here if I don't, this should be enough to get many good Bible studies started though:)))
Yesterday I signed VCM up to be a member of the "National Preparedness Month Coalition." In doing so I've made the promise to promote this event, which is the month of September. Part of being a coalition member entails preparing people to face disaster within their lives, through the publication of papers, flyers, articles and/or events. This is perfect in keeping with the goals of the LORD and this ministry's "DROC." I've begun to correlate a number of disaster preparedness forms offered by other groups to present ones that are in better standing with the beliefs of the ministry. Remember, I've personally been through disaster and know firsthand what it takes to survive through them. Sure, not everyone may sit through a cat 5 hurricane feeling the brunt of it's fury, but being prepared has nothing to do with this. It has to deal with being ready to face even the smallest of events also. I'm in disagreement with a good number of the items most of these offer. I deem them as a bit under what really is needed and will present both the original suggestions and those from personal experience. For example, most state that we should have on hand a 72 hr. supply of both food and water. I personally don't rationalize this as being enough. I'd rather see people ready to handle a much longer period without relief efforts reaching them. More along the lines of a week would be more sufficient and even longer if the disaster is larger in scope. More on this will be coming in the next months, so keep your eyes open for it!
There are going to be many changes coming to the ministry in the time ahead. We'll be getting more and more of our programs up and functioning, or at least set up to operate. Exactly what the LORD has in store for the ministry, I can only imagine, but I've a fair knowledge from visions and inspirations HE's given me throughout the years. Please understand, Vine of CHRIST Ministries was not born yesterday, it has been in development since Aug. of '97.' I've been through processes for many of it's branches, learning all that I could about their operations and procedures. Which ones and to what extent they'll be activated, only the LORD knows, but I do know that the time has come for VCM to begin bearing fruit for the KINGDOM. There are many needs that will have to be met as this begins to happen and I've great faith, that all our needs will be met as the LORD opens the doors to each and every branch that HIS ministry will entail. If you see yourself working in the future for the LORD, step out of the boat and get to it. For there is no better place to be then in one of service to the LORD!!!
GOD bless and good day,
Rev. Marshall Barth
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