June 2012

Dear Friends,

I started our last Newsletter with verses from Proverbs.  I’ve continued to think on those verses and the power of what they mean, especially Proverbs 16:1.  This verse informs us, “The preparations of the heart in man, and the answer of the tongue, is from the LORD.”  The emphasis of the Hebrew is that man has his strategies, but God has the answers.  In other words, we make our plans, but God decides.  I have to admit I have not been able to move on past this thought over the last few months.  All we ever have done, all we are doing, and all that we will ever do is subject to the control of our sovereign Lord.  For some that may be frightening, but for me it is such a comfort.  No mater how smart or stupid I am, I am incapable of complicating God’s plans.  I may grieve His Spirit, but I cannot scramble His intent.

The last few months have been involved in much preparation as well as actual ministry.  There has been a lot of travel fromFloridatoNew York, as well as extensive interaction with missionaries, pastors, and other believers over various issues.  While all this has gone on, there has been a considerable effort on our part and the leadership of BEM to develop the ministry of Barnabas Enrichment Ministries as well as prepare written material (see the enclosed brochure) and set up a ministry/speaking schedule.  We have obviously been making our plans, all the while praying for God’s guidance because, ultimately, He decides how it will all move forward.

In the months ahead we will be involved in ministry in Utah (helping with a new church plant as well as speaking in churches there), California (consulting with a church that has a deep desire to explore God’s will for the future), Iowa (speaking in a church and visiting grandkids!), Alaska (teaching in a Bible conference and speaking in other churches as well as returning to a mission field location), and Kansas (involved in a mission conference).  Because of our financial need, Beabea will not be with me on some of these trips due to her working as a care-giver, so pray for us as we are apart for many long weeks.  (We are thrilled that the Lord has opened the door for Beabea to travel with me toAlaskathis year.  God is so gracious!)

Missionaries seem to always have financial needs.  We truly appreciate your prayers for us in this area.  We have had several individuals take us on for support as well some churches that have expressed interest.  God has continued to meet our needs from areas we were not aware of.  That is always exciting.  We tell God what He needs to do, and then He does what He intended to do (which is often different than what we told Him He should do) and what He does is great!

Don’t forget, continue to pray for our spiritual growth, that we will be the people God wants us to be!

May you be aware of God’s love and guidance today as you make your plans!

John

jtrbem@gmail.com                   

Commissioning Church:
Shepherd Road Baptist Church
P.O. Box 1054
Mulberry, FL  33860  

www.BarnabasEnrichmentMinistries.org