The Promise Still Stands

In The First Step of Forever, Timothy J. Marshall offers the Church a timely and grace-filled roadmap for knowing God beyond the moment of conversion. Some books inform the mind, others ignite the heart — this one does both. With the careful hand of a shepherd and the steady voice of a fellow traveler, Marshall walks readers into a day-by-day, ever-growing relationship with the Lord that is both accessible and deeply rooted in Scripture.

What makes this work especially meaningful is its twofold reach. New believers will find a trustworthy guide for taking confident first steps in their faith, while seasoned saints will rediscover the beauty of walking with God in fresh, unhurried ways. Rather than presenting spiritual growth as a sprint of religious effort, the author frames it as a lifelong journey of communion, dependence, and joy — the kind of walk that matures not in haste, but in humility and hope.

The earliest description of Christ’s followers in the New Testament was people of “The Way” (Acts 9:2), indicating that Christianity is not merely a checklist of doctrines, but a way of life. Each page of this book carries the invitation to move from momentary belief to daily transformation. The tone is warm, the insights are practical, and the truths are anchored in the enduring faithfulness of God. Marshall reminds us that salvation is not the finish line — it is the starting point of fellowship with the One who calls us by name.

If you are longing for renewal, seeking clarity, or simply ready to take the next faithful step, this book will meet you where you are and lead you forward. It is not merely a manual for Christian living; it is a companion for the soul — pointing every reader toward the God who walks with us, one step at a time, into forever.

Ken Gurley- District Superintendent, Texas Gulf Coast UPCI

In every generation, God raises voices to speak to the hearts of His servants, who carry the weight of experience and the burden of caring. This book, written by my friend, will encourage and prompt your attitude to that of Apostle Paul: “none of these things move me”. With great joy, I commend this book to you as a reminder that all according to 2 Timothy 3:12, Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution (trouble, trials, tears, turmoil).  This book will offer experience without egotism.  This author reminds all who enter ministry that ministry is not about performance but about God’s presence within us and our presence with His people.  This author reminds us again that He is still the 4th man in the fire, he still walks on our storms, and He is faithful even when we are fretting.  

Jeremy Poling, LPC, NPT-C /Pastor of Rock Church, Harrisonburg, VA

Bro Tim, I printed off a copy and finished reading it this morning. It provides excellent, well-written practical advice and instructions covering essential aspects of ministry and the minister’s life and calling. You have done an excellent service to the ministry by taking the time to put all these lessons in writing.   Every minister will benefit from the wisdom and insight God has given you, and those who heed it will spare themselves much heartache and avoid common pitfalls we are all prone to fall into. Great job, my friend. There will be more for you to share where that came from! Every minister would benefit from it, not just young ministers. God bless you and use this for His glory!  

Pastor Jerry Holt– New Life Apostolic Church, Lewiston, Idaho

I’ve known Rev Tim Marshall to be a man of deep emotion and sincere passion, with an equal or greater corresponding compassion. His ministry is marked by a tender heart toward people and a fierce commitment to the call of God. He feels deeply, preaches boldly, and serves sacrificially. What he writes in these pages is not theory, it’s testimony. He has lived this journey beyond the map, and it shows in this writing.              

Doug Klinedinst- National Evangelist Coordinator, UPCI

The call to ministry is the highest calling a person can receive, and it demands that we “walk worthy of the vocation” to which Christ has called us. This book is a timely and necessary guide for young ministers who desire to be used by God without losing themselves in the process. In a world where success can become a snare, it is vital to remember that King David’s downfall began not on the battlefield but on the balcony of comfort and complacency. Ministry was never meant to be lived from the balcony but from the altar. May every reader be reminded to put the ephod back on and minister first unto the Lord. This is more than a book of caution, it is a call back to consecration.

Dave Stovall– Pastor Abundant Life, Willis, Texas.

Whether you are beginning the pursuit of your God-called life’s purpose or a faithful shepherd working to mentor such a person, Tim Marshall has given this guidebook to help you on your journey.  Through it, he speaks deeply out of the richness of his life in that same pursuit, and in doing so, he shines a light on the journey set before you, one that leads to life for you and that you, too, might bring many to abundant life.

Jonathan Arneault – Pastor, The Rock, Gulf Breeze, Florida