WAR ROOM
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WAR ROOM
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Well, I'm slightly on fire today. And not in a good way. We really don't need another reason to #pray4pastors. I really don't want to hear another news item that justifies this burden that God has placed upon my heart.
But here we are... and not a knock on the denomination, but those involved clearly have some things to work out between God and man. 300 priests, involved in sexual abuse involving 1,000-something young people over the last 70 years. And somewhere along the way, the leadership of the Catholic church, not only covered it up, once, but multiple times over. For decades. Outrageous, unfathomable... I'm really not sure if it's more appropriate to be overwhelmed with anger or tears. But my heart is broken. And this is why we pray! Old men whose lives have been ruined to the core, in the depths of their soul, from probably never having shared the matter. And young people in recent years, who probably still aren't believed when they have found the ability to come forward. And tons more in between; of all walks and stages of life. How they've been affected and the quality of life that they have lived; it's truly hard to comprehend. Equally hard to comprehend, the condition and outcome for these priests. I know God forgives. I've seen God forgive. I also know the incredibly difficult road that the offender travels after the fact. God is able and capable to redeem and bless. But that is a long process and these are still a long ways off from that stage. This is so not what the church is about. This is not what we need to be know for. This is not helpful for the ministry. Yet it is an opportunity. The failure of humanity is the best argument for the love of God. The evil nature of sin in our heart is the best argument for the existence of a divine plan of redemption. Our brokenness, reason to seek the work of God to make us whole. Our damaged and wounded spirits placed in the hands of the Comforter; that the Holy Spirit would bring healing through the power of Jesus Christ. Is it not amazing how the worse a tragedy, the more amazing the testimony? The more troubling a journey, the more incredible is the destination? What the devil intended for death, God uses to bring life. What he seeks to destroy, God plans to build. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, for all these that are involved in this mess. For they all have a response to this disaster and the only one that matters is whether they turn to you in time of trouble or abandon you. Pray, in this day of difficulty, that God would begin a great work in hearts and lives of both the abusers and the abused. Indeed, pray for healing... that the broken would be made well, and whole. Pray that God would use His church; not a denomination, but the people of God, to come along side, as ministering angels of grace. May God give divine appointments to intervene, intercede and be a true source of faith on display. Pray that God would guard the leadership of the church, as they work to establish the next generation of leaders. May we be about building the kingdom of God Rather than destroying it through selfish, sinful indulgence. God help us all, for we are all but one wayward step away From the beginning of a downfall that could severely impact eternity. - PNC
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There's a power in both the phrase and the concept of living "between the ditches" that has seemingly captured my attention when I wasn't paying attention. It's quite the visual, when you consider the many implications that exist, especially as we consider the power and importance of living as a community.
We are all on a journey. Often passing through life in different directions, in more ways than one. Accidents. Mistakes. Close-calls. Hazards. Warning signs about obstacles and those instances in which we are blind-sided. There's any number of reasons which cause us to land in the ditches of life. But the great aspect of community, is that our relationships should be as such to recognize when someone has found themselves in that place. And just as important, is that we should recognize the things that can cause us to land there as well. We get caught off-guard by the very things that we know we should be especially careful to be aware of; meanwhile we don't always help those that are about to find themselves in states of trouble that are all-too preventable. What's worse, we don't always take advantage of allowing relationships to exist to the degree that such conversations and interventions can occur... neither do we exercise wisdom in following their advice or taking their insight and perspective into consideration. Which, if that is part of the point of having such a person in our lives, then we've done ourselves an injustice to both ourselves and those around us. "I value your friendship, but not enough to allow you to speak into my life, nor respect you when you do speak." Such a mindset is... well, dangerous if it is intentional. And tragic, when it actually plays out among us. And I say us, because I've held it at previous times in my life. It's a guaranteed way to end up in the ditch and in fact, people might just wait and watch for the moment to happen. This is where the pain of life is usually for our benefit. So, pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us to keep life on the road. Pray for strength and vision to be aware of the dangers of life, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, to navigate our way around. Furthermore, pray for the quality of our relationships; that they would exist at such a level that the insight, wisdom and perspective that exists would be utilized for a better life; to build and encourage each other in the faith as well as bring others to faith. May we be a people that impacts community through our approach to those around us because of the value that we place upon relationship. Pray that we would create and build relationships to that would glorify and honor God and draw others ever closer to Him because of what the world sees in our interactions with each other. For freedom is found in Christ And enjoyed on the roads of life Especially when we avoid the ditches. - PNC It's difficult to remember that which you haven't committed to memory.
This simply, profound truth is a courtesy summation of a point in John McArthur's sermon that I heard early this morning, in which He was talking about the promises that Christ gave before His ascension regarding the work and help of the Holy Spirit in our lives. It's an amazing consideration... the lengths to which God went to restore relationship with His creation. As if Christ' death wasn't enough, He sent help; knowing full well we would need it. However, despite our desperate need for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, that doesn't negate our best efforts to attempt to get by and live without Him. We attempt to get by on our own goodness, efforts, works and words. We focus on the quality of our relationships with others, while neglecting one with God. We have everything else in our hand and in front of our face than that which is necessary for spiritual growth, maturity and longevity. How do I know this? I have a mirror... that I can envision without actually getting up and walking into the room where the physical mirror exists. Why do I know more quotes from my favorite show or song, rather than my favorite book and more importantly, God's book? Because I'm human. And because you can't remember what's not already in your memory banks. So, I ask, the same question I'm asking myself. What am I committing to memory? What am I leading my kids to learn and remember? In the battles and struggles that pastors face, what are they remembering and standing upon? As they lead their own homes and families? As they help me lead mine? As they help lead my friends and families? So, pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would draw all of us, but especially the pastors of this up and coming generation, that they would be people of the Word to an ever greater degree than ever. May they stand on the promises of God more than ever before; because they know and even more aware than they have ever been. Pray the battles and stresses of life would not cause them to disengage; but draw in closer, to the presence of God and the truths of His Word. Indeed, pray that the Holy Spirit would be their comfort and their guide. May they be led not only into all truth, but walk in the fullness of the promises of God. Only by His grace. And all for His glory. To know Him And by known by Him. In all truth; for all time. - PNC Is it that I'm writing this post, with blue-tooth in my ear, streaming my favorite, classic Christian rock station, which is currently playing P.O.D.'s Youth Of A Nation song. And it's #youthPastorWednesday.
Some days you think you are raising good kids; that there is hope for this coming generation and then you get home and your youngest has raided the family size container of Double Stuffed Oreo's. Seriously, kid? I didn't even get one yet! Guess the remaining few are mine. I'm probably one of the last people that need to be writing on good habits and self-discipline and instilling the same into this next generation (lots of c'mon Dad, get it together moments). It's more of a struggle than it should be, yet the daily reminders that our time and investment in the lives of our kids are important are ever-present... so much so that it's hard to miss unless you are living with your head looking down; which sadly many of us are, whether it be at the ground or at the phone. (Is there a difference? #asking4afriend) Again... I'm not judging you. I sit in front of the television too while scrolling social media, then tell my kid to get off the tablet while Netflix is playing their kid's show. It's another ah-ha moment, as they even asked again a few moments ago, when is the next time that we go to church. Ministry starts at home, just as much as their education begins long before they step into the classroom. Yet the distractions of life and responsibilities of adulthood always seem to stand in the way of what's most important, both at home and at church... relationships. Long before God did, He was. And while He gave mankind tasks, He more importantly, walked with man in the Garden, daily. Are we doing? Probably not as much as we should. More importantly though, are we living in relationship and developing that ability in our youth? Not if we can't get them to look up and around; which won't happen if we don't model it for them. And by we, I mean me. We should no longer wait for our churches to build faith in our kids anymore than we would blindly allow the education system to teach our kids... of which we are witnessing some of those repercussions even now in today's cultural and social battles. So, let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help those pastors who are dealing with some uphill battles and struggles in the lives of youth who have not had a firm foundation of faith established at an earlier age. Pray that God would give them wisdom in those relationships as well as grace as they communicate truth into their lives. Pray that God would help us as parents, to do our part to prepare and equip our children for the world that is full of opportunity; not only for great success, but of great destruction. May God guard their hearts, minds, souls, and spirits from the enemy who would seek to bring their life to ruin through complacency and apathy towards God and people. Pray that God would raise up a generation that would seek and follow God alone and use us, despite our ongoing flaws and failures to teach them well. For the glory of God And His kingdom alone. May God shed His grace on us. - PNC Tip #1 on the greatness of Fatherhood.
Be as ready and willing to help out the 40-year old kid as much as you would expect them to help out their 10-year old kid. The struggle for fathers, is that no matter where you are in life, you always wish there was more that you could do, more that you can say (or at least more that got thru), more that you could give... more that you could share and impart into their lives. You're never done being a parent. You are never done loving your kid, teaching your kid, encouraging your kid... crying, laughing, mourning with them and rejoicing over them. And you know you have been successful in these matters when the importance of your role in their life is recognized and appreciated. And you have to love, how our Heavenly Father, no matter our age, position and current struggle called reality, steps up and into matters and works on our behalf. So, if we being good, know how to give gifts to our kids, how much more the God who created us in His image? Sadly, it's easy to forget, or perhaps simply take for granted just how much God is work, moving in our lives and making arrangements for His sovereign plan to come together. And yet it does, time and time again, as we continually place our trust in Him and do the things that He has placed His finger on; having brought it to our attention that we should make a difference in the lives of those around us. What greater lesson and relationship could we help to plant and develop in the lives of our kids, regardless of their current age. Love knows no limits as age knows endless lessons. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for pastors who don't healthy relationships with their parents, especially their fathers. Pray that God would fill them afresh with His presence and strengthen them by the power of the Holy Spirit. May God do a healing work in the hearts, perhaps damaged and broken from events many years removed. Pray that God would transform their perspective, even as they continue, both in ministry and in their own lives and families. Pray that God would give them wisdom as they engage and minister to youth and kids, setting for them the example of a relationship with Father God that was perhaps not modeled in their own life at an early stage. For all the times, Dad has said, "trust me" May their be no hesitation in our response To placing our complete trust in the hands of God For How. Much. More. Will He give to His own. And for His glory. - PNC Perhaps something clicked between yesterday and this morning, but it wasn't too far into the day when I started reflecting on some of the incredible life stories of recent pastors whose ministries and leadership I have enjoyed in recent years. The truly epic journeys that some of these men and women have endured, if not them, personally, their parents or grandparents whose lives got a hold of revolutionized.
A pastor with a grandfather who, after God called him into full-time ministry paid off his old gambling debts. A pastor who had a biker for a father and a bar-maid for a mother... and yet God changed future generations. A pastor, who at one time nearly stood at the edge of a wayward life... but God rewrote his future. It's an incredibly powerful testimony to have such a conversion experience in the life of a pastor or ministry leader. And while it can be disconcerting to those who don't have such a powerhouse story; the legacy that begins with such stories is amazing. It's amazing to watch it unfold in the generations that follow. It's also a little scary, as we have watched numerous times, one generation witness a dramatic impact in their ministry and then the next generation somehow, somewhere along the line, dropped the torch. And the church suffers. Maybe not immediately, Maybe not entirely. But eventually. As pastor has mentioned many times, every generation needs it's own revelation of God. For one generation's revelation is the next generation's religion. And that is when the legacy of ministry is placed into jeopardy. On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors, especially those who do have an incredible testimony behind their ministries. Pray for their families and the generations that follow them; may the legacy be protected, not for their name sake, but for the sake of eternity. Pray that God would guard their homes and children; that they would not have to face and overcome the challenges and demons that previous generations battled. May generational curses be broken and generational promises established and fulfilled. Pray the impact of one's ministry would be increased by the generations that follow because of their own revelation of God, rather than hindered by allowing to become a religious exercise. For God did not grant freedom, That we would return to enslavement. Victorious for the cause of Jesus Christ For as many years that remain. - PNC Nothing reminds you that the clock is running, with or without your knowledge, like your oldest child having a milestone birthday. And while I'm incredible proud of how much progress has been made in the past year, part of me feels I should be equally proud for retaining some semblance of my sanity in the process.
Then I remember the coming years will go by even faster, which means they are all the more critical, both to the success of their live and what I need to do as father during that same time. If almost hard to fathom that God waited until the days of Noah to say, forget it... I'm starting over with you people. Even more amazing, is that He hasn't doesn't so again, given today's cultural mess that we've created. Parents always look to larger families... "I can't hardly handle my two kids... how do you do it with 5? (or insert the numbers from your conversations). We've all been there and had those talks. Super parents. And there's the rest of us... lol Yet the lessons we've learned by the example that God has set for us are invaluable, incredible, and some days, darn near impossible. And if we've learned anything from the days of Noah, it's that our days are numbered, when it comes to setting our kids on a trajectory that will establish them as world changers for the kingdom of God. And we are daily reminded, that we too, should be about changing our world, starting with our family unit and our local community. Let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would give wisdom, both to those raising kids and those ministering to our kids. Pray that the foundation of faith would be firmly established in their hearts. Pray that God would give us grace for every new morning and an attitude of long-suffering as direction is given and guidance is instilled. Pray that pastors and parents alike would set a Godly example of living, as God has given examples for us, that we might be conformed and transformed into the image of Christ. May generational curses be broken And generational faith established To love God and serve people For all of our days; However numbered they may be And however many remain. For the glory of God. - PNC Well, it's Freedom Day!! Independence Day, as celebrated in these, wonderful United States of America.
Don't listen to the naysayers. Yes, we have problems, just like every other country. Our communities have issues, just like all the rest. There is no "perfect" school anywhere. And companies are always looking for the next improvement. Meanwhile, every family has it's battles. Every marriage has it's moments of strife. And every life has it's crisis of faith. There's so much that factors in to the freedom that we enjoy. And so often we focus on the external things. To go anywhere. To do anything (within the legal framework). To be anyone that we want desire to be. To create a life of our own. And yet, we don't always experience "freedom" as such. We miss out on financial freedom, thanks to debt and the pressure or desire as the case may be, to keep up with the neighbors, across the street or across the country. People struggle with addictions and substance abuse. We don't experience freedom because of clutter, both physically around our homes as well as that which resides mentally in the one square foot of real estate that is the head. We overthink matters. We overwork the process. We invest our time and energy into everything except that which matters most; relationship. With God. With family. With friends. With those with whom we share this great land; for which many have lived, fought and died to ensure it's existence. On this #youthPastorWednesday, let us first thank for freedom. While we celebrate what has been granted to us as a nation, may we remember the true freedom that exists through Jesus Christ. Pray for pastors living an experience that is more stress and struggle than freedom and joy. For whatever challenges they are facing, pray that God would grant them clarity and wisdom. Pray that chains would be broken and states of bondage loosened. Pray for the young people to whom they minister, that are facing similar struggles. May God help them to effective share the truth that God has a plan, purpose and destiny for their lives. May we never forget that freedom always comes at a price... whether by those who serve our country, or Christ who served for all humanity. For the glory of God We celebrate true freedom. - PNC I always appreciate talking with my brother. He lives out of state and his schedule is crazier than mine, so it's not nearly often enough. But he returned my call late last night and I was reminded once again, just how much I appreciate his insight and advice wrapped up in brotherly love.
Then this morning, I got to thinking about the verse that talks about Jesus staying closer than a brother. And I realized that there are two responses to that truth. The first, is a response similar too mine; and that is that it's a pretty incredible thought regarding our walk with Christ as me and my brother are like this! *fingers crossed. When you have a great relationship with your sibling, the closeness a relationship with Christ is easy to grasp, but at times difficult to imagine that it could be even better. Then there's the opposite response, offered through an entirely different filter. For the person who does not have a close relationship with their sibling, putting a relationship with Christ in such a framework is difficult. And understandably so. There's no context of personal experience. We see this all the time, in conversations on nearly every issue and topic of the day. You can't possibly understand what that's like if you haven't lived it. And to a degree, that is accurate. Now, granted, not "every" experience needs to be personally lived out, to understand that something is dangerous, horrific or defies logic or belief. We can show compassion, empathy and understanding while speaking truth, even from an entirely different experience. Having said that though, we've all recognized the bond that develops when the stories and realities of two people or groups come into alignment and they discover that they share common elements throughout the experience(s) of their life... or at least a moment of it. Children want to know that someone understands their struggles. Adults want to know that someone has lived their battles. Likewise, pastors want to know that someone has survived the ministry. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for pastors that are struggling with their place in life and in faith. May they be reassured, that even if it feels like nobody understands their battle, that Christ does. Pray for the comfort of the Holy Spirit to surround them and strengthen them anew and afresh. Pray also, that God would give them insight as they come alongside, the kids and teens that they minister to; that they would develop a great relationship in which those kids would understand that someone has been through the challenges and difficulties they are facing. May the be the representation of Christ, standing by them, walking with them and speaking truth into them and life over them. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous in drawing the lives of both young people and pastors alike every closer to Himself. That each of us would grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ As we do in the relationship of our beloved siblings Both the ones that exist and the ones we wished existed For the glory of God. - PNC We plan, we strategize, we dream. We talk this and look at that. We prepare on all kinds of levels, pray over all manner of people and circumstances all the while, looking forward to the days ahead... sometimes with greater anticipation than others.
Then life happens. Or Murphy, as it's oft referred to in... albeit in a beloved (read: begrudged) tone of voice. And you realize a truth that applies to every circumstance, dream and relationship. You don't have as much time as you think you do. A problem you know is on the horizon will appear quicker than you anticipate. A matter which you know can be delayed for a short time will find a way to speed up the clock. You can no more turn your back on life for a split second anymore than you would your kid and come to find out that half second cost you three and one half years. You watch life go by, particularly through the lens of ministry and it almost makes you wish it was impossible to blink. But the body needs rest. And the soul need refreshing. And the eyes, time to heal. For the body needs time to gather its' strength to endure. And the soul, time to hold fast to hope. The eyes, time to renew its' perspective. If anything, life is a lesson in preparedness, for the inevitable as much as the unexpected; for the known horizon as much as the peripheral blind-spot. We have been given life. We create life We steward life. For however long it lasts, and whoever we may share it will, God help us to live and manage it well. So pray to that end, this #youthPastorWednesday. May God help us to be good stewards of time, resources and relationships. Pray that God would maximize the investment that we make into fulfilling our calling and purpose and the what we contribute to the lives of those around us. Pray that God would strength and renew those struggling to endure and feel as though hope is slipping from their grasp. Pray for those who feel as though they are losing perspective; may God remind them of who they are, who He is, what He has done and what He desires for their lives. For as long as we have breath, Even if we don't have as much time as we think, He is not done with us yet. May it be for His continued glory By His unending grace. - PNC A Happy Father's Day to you Dad's out there in the Bring Me 70 / pray4pastors universe!!
I can't thank you enough for joining me in praying for pastors and those in ministry that help us lead our families, churches and communities. There's so much that goes into fatherhood. And we know the reality of that matter is that it doesn't take much to become a father. But once that is your reality, being a father that is known and respected as "good" or better is work. A lot of work. Even when you have zero energy, mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially. Fatherhood is an investment... in the most important thing that could ever be entrusted to you. A life created by God who bears His image and your name. Long before we can do what God has called us to do, we have to acknowledge who He has called us to be... and understand that God's blessing came before His instruction. Doesn't God give the greatest example of Fatherhood? An ever-present help in times of trouble! Dad's who can be called upon in times of trouble can be trusted, most likely, because they were so present when there was an absence of trouble. Simply being present speaks volumes to those who want to know that someone will be available when needed. It's how we know we can call on the name of the Lord and place our trust in God. For He has always been and will always be. And I love the idea that even when we can trace God, we can trust Him. We may not know what's going on and why He is doing what He is doing, but we can trust that there is a plan and purpose. So too, is the way to be both effective and efficient in our lives and ministries... to live with an intentional plan and a grand purpose. Ideally, inspired, blessed and anointed by the hand of God. For immediate after God created man, He blessed them and then gave them an assignment. Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for God's continued hand of blessing and favor, particular over the fathers who lead our homes and families, churches and communities. May we be the men of God that He has called us to be and do the things in this world that He has called us to do. Pray for a grace about our lives that would testify of the goodness of God even in spite of our mistakes both great and small, of both little consequence and of great consequence. Pray that we would live with an awareness of God's moving in our lives and a sense of awe of the people and responsibilities and resources that have been entrusted to our care and oversight. May we neither neglect the role we play in our relationships, nor be absent from them altogether. Pray that we would follow God's example, to be an ever-present help to those in need as God has been for us when we ourselves have been in great trouble. Created in the image of God To reflect the image of God. All for the glory of God. - PNC I didn't plan on doing any sort of a related post after yesterday's insight regarding government, but here I am. Just a quick piece of a monologue that was playing... not sure I channel surfed across a Catholic radio station or what, except the host was Catholic, but he was talking about how much we expect from government.
More specifically, we was dealing with a hot-button issue that has been quite a long-standing one in the political arena for decades now... of course, what hasn't. But he was talking about the verses that discuss welcoming the stranger. And he made an incredibly poignant point... (say that five times real fast) To welcome the stranger is an individual command, not a national policy. You may disagree with me and that's fine and there's a point to this as we pray for missionaries, so hear me out on this. The role of government is to defend it's borders and to serve and protect its citizenry. If can be objective with me for a moment, we don't take an alcoholic to a bar and then advise them not to drink. We don't hand the keys of a Ferrari to a teenage driver and tell them not to wreck it. We don't send soldiers off to war with open arms, no weapons and a smile. Although it's be interesting to see how the enemy would react to such kindness; but I have a feeling evil would take over. People have their role, just as much as government has theirs... as does the church for that matter. God gave strict instructions for how Israel as a nation was to conduct it's affairs and how it was to handle other societies, cultures and countries. And yet, God speaks very specifically to the people, as to what they should do when they found themselves in certain circumstance with individuals, neighbors and strangers. Those commands differ greatly! Furthermore, there's so much that even within the church, that we've come to expect that government will take over and handle that is also, not theirs to handle. For example, true religion is taking care of widows and orphans. And yet government handles social services across the board, for everyone including widows and orphans. And so much more. Some of that they should be involved. Others, perhaps, not so much. There's so much where the church should be leading and used to at one time. Many ministries are working on correcting the matter; many more are not. So, as we pray for missionaries, may we also keep in mind, of our role in the mission of the Gospel. The state will not share the love of Jesus Christ. They should protect their people, including those who do share this eternal message of hope; yet sadly, even that seems to be under scrutiny to varying degrees. On this #missionsFriday, pray that God would watch over those who are formally serving full-time to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As they ministry in countries and environments much more hostile and dangerous, pray that God would protect their homes and families as they have stepped into the darkness that they may be light. Pray also, that in our own lives, we would live with that perspective. May the church go above and beyond to be ministers of grace, hope, healing and truth; making such an impact that peoples first call when in times of need would be to the people of God, rather than the positions of power held by the state. All for the glory of God And the Gospel of Jesus Christ. - PNC Amazing how one phrase can be spoken from a position of authority, self-criticism and conviction.
What were you thinking? We hope and pray that we are teaching and instilling good values and principles in our kids. Then something happens. We hope and pray that we are hearing the voice of God and the moving of the Spirit... but then. Then there are times you know you have missed God and you envision Him sitting on the throne, as if shaking His head. To the kid... what were you thinking? In frustration to ourselves... boy, it sure feels as though you did something stupid. And conviction, that results in a heart to heart conversation with God. Somewhere between childhood and adulthood and over the course of the journey of our faith, we seemingly lose our resilience to recover when you would think that the muscle would be in good shape to continually press in and press on. It seems that with bigger problems, obstacles and mistakes that we hang on to them longer, allow them to bother us deeper and give them greater power to rob more of our joy than they should. But whatever is that we face and now, must overcome, it's imperative to recall and remember that God is still in control. Wherever we find ourselves while it is called today, God is with us. Is the conversation difficult? Yes. The consequence uncomfortable? Yes. The correction worthwhile? Yes. Even in our lives though, I think all too often we are harder on ourselves than even God is with us at times. Does God deal just and harsh? Yes. But also He works everything for His good and does not waste any of our experiences. Which means that at some point, God is ready to be glorified through the problem and the pain But He can't do that, if we are still kicking ourselves trying to figure out what we were thinking regarding whatever circumstance has seemingly stopped us cold in our tracks. God is ready to move. Again. In the lives of those who will allow Him to do so. As much as you wouldn't want your kid to wallow in self-pity and defeat, neither is that what God desires to happen in our lives and faith. So, let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday that God would help those struggling to overcome the problems, obstacles and mistakes that currently weigh them done. May God bring healing to those who need to put the past where it belongs. Pray that God would grant wisdom to those in the midst of it all and are seeking and searching for a solution. Pray that depression and discouragement would be far from them and that they would focus on what and how God would seek to use what was meant to destroy us to instead, bring glory and honor to His name. For whatever we were thinking That led to problems God is thinking about amazing solutions And the testimonies that will result. For His glory alone. - PNC My wife and I attended a couples night gathering at church last night, and what a great time of fellowship. We had a great time having some fun and meeting new people. It was truly an enjoyable time and experience. We got in the car to head home and discussed the evening... a seemingly fitting thing that most couples would do as well. At one point, she observed, "It wasn't clique-ish at all!"
Yet, when a gathering does have that sense and feel, it can frustrate and even destroy the sense of community. Not every group is for every person. Not every interest, not every club is meant and designed to be an open, all-access pass. I get that boundaries is a sensitive topic these days, but they have their place and time and they serve an incredibly important purpose. I could give examples, but I think you're wise enough to understand how life and reality works; plus that's not really the direction I want to go with this perspective. Having said that, if there is a place where people shouldn't feel like outsiders, for any reason, it's the church. Yet sadly, many people do. Some for personality reasons, others for much deeper issues and struggles. We all have our battles and conflicts, both before coming to Christ and that He is working out within us after salvation. So yes, life and relationships are complex. While I think the church has come along way in creating a welcoming environment whereby someone can enter and feel as though they are surrounded by friends, there's still an ease with which cliques can occur and come into existence; sometimes unknowingly and unintentionally as well. Yet for the person who catches and recognizes it when they see it, the people who gather for church are more like acquaintances than friends. You know people and you about them, but you don't truly "know" them. The depth of relationship is lacking. And that lack of quality relationships with believers eventually affects one's relationship with God. Or at least has the potential to do so. You find yourself knowing God and knowing about Him, but no longer truly "knowing" and learning about Him. This is a troubling place to be, both in life and in faith. On that note, pray this #communitySaturday, that regardless of what happens in community and society at large, that the church would not be known for its' cliques. Pray for a strengthening of the relationships and friendships that exist and pray for opportunity for new ones to be forged. May there be an understanding as interaction occurs, that the ground is level at Calvary. Pray the church would continue to be intention as their influence and ministry grows within the communities and region that they serve. Pray also that the power of Scripture and the work of the Holy Spirit would not be hindered as working agents to bring people closer to God. While Christianity has it's complexities, reflecting the character of Christ is fairly simple. It just not always easy. May God use us for His glory. Whomever and wherever people may be Who need an encounter with Christ Through those who follow Him. For the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC As I was writing Friday's post on hostile environments, I couldn't help but consider that conflict and tension doesn't exist solely in the obvious places around the globe and for missionaries. We pray for pastors daily, because we know they are not immune.
And we pray for community, because we do know very well, that on a daily basis, we encounter people and personalities that are filled with emotion, tension and differences that work against us and the relationships that we have with those around us. Whether it be at work.... uh, we'll leave that one alone; or at home... yeah, not their either. Um... in the marketplace, in our neighborhood, even as we gather as a body of believers? Is there anywhere we can go where there is not the possibility of conflict? No. No, there is not. Not anywhere. For even as we find our quiet place and time with God, in His Word and in prayer, there is conflict. The conviction of the Holy Spirit is alive and well. The powerful, yet delicate hand of God has yet to find rest. He is always at work. Always moving. And wherever there is movement, there will be struggle, conflict and wear. So, then maintaining and enduring quality relationships in community begins and ends with the quality of our relationship with God. God help us, this #communitySaturday. Pray that He would give us grace as we correct and move in the ways and places He would have for us to go in our own lives. Pray for the conflict and problems that needs to be resolved in our relationships, whether with family or with friends, both within the four walls of the church and outside them. May God give us wisdom with the words we use and the time and place and people with which we use them. Pray that He would continue to lead, guide and direct our steps that He may all the more glorified in our lives, homes and communities. One day at time One conversation at time One life at a time. One decision at a time. For Christ and His cause. - PNC I wish one day, that this would never happen again. But, we are all human. Including our pastors. And sadly another one has fallen... and hard. The hard part is outrageous, but fallen is fallen. And while this is a journey that I wouldn't wish upon any congregation, the difficulty of this particular matter, (which I am only aware of thanks to social media posts from a friend), is that this pastor's moral failure has resulted in legal consequences and worse, destroyed lives and families.
Like I said... in a word; outrageous. As we near completing the three year mark on this project of prayer, there have been moments of overlap and repetition. I know, I've stated before, my attempts to take great care to keep such instances to a minimum, but I wanted to reiterate my intention. Because while this post could very well be saved for next week, on a day that we pray specifically for pastors, I felt the immediacy of writing this today, as the church leadership and staff are dealing with the finality of this failure and the process that it has entailed. How do they heal as a church? How do they heal as a community of believers attempting to impact their community? How do they recover their standing, as the spotlight has been placed on this horrible situation? How do they and especially, those directly affected, keep the faith after this ordeal? I know, some of you are reading this wondering what the specifics are and all of that. And once again, I'm approaching this as it's not my story to tell in detail, especially given I don't have that many. But furthermore, I've tried to be very intentional on this site with regards to practicing discernment. I hope you can appreciate the balancing act I've attempted to walk in breaking down concepts while leaving a certain sense of vagueness in play. Sorry, but that's how things work sometimes. But I know this. Hearts are broken and minds are befuddled. Emotions are rampant, faith is discouraged and no doubt, trust has been nothing short of shattered not into pieces, but shards. You understand the difference into how they are handled. In another word... delicately. Not just anyone can handle them. Not just any method will work in handling them. So, once again, join me in prayer, on this #deaconThursday. Pray for the leadership of this church as they deal with this incredibly complex and overwhelmingly difficult set of circumstances. May God give them wisdom in the decisions they face in the days to come. Pray for a spirit of grace and compassion as they guide this church through the various stages of processing such a horrendous event. Pray for healing over this congregation. Pray for a move of the Holy Spirit over this church and community; that in the midst of pain and agony, even in the most unthinkable of circumstances, that the testimonies that will result from this test and the ministries that will come forth from this mess, will accomplish more with greater effectiveness for the kingdom of God than if nothing had happened at all. Even if we all agree, we'd rather not have this situation happen at all. But for the grace of God Where would any of us be. Forgiven and redeemed. And needing it more than once. God help us all. - PNC I found myself hearing another conversation on values today. Perhaps it was a similar conversation to one I heard a few weeks ago. But it revolved around kids and today's education system and the battle that exists between the two. And it is a battle.
As great as the political agenda is among us, how much thought and emphasis do we give to the eternal agenda? Not nearly enough... not nearly enough. Lives hang in the balance... of all ages, of all races, of all ideologies and backgrounds and experiences. There's the value system that is set by God. And there's the system set by man. One is fixed. One is fluid. In an age and time when people want to be grounded, have something that is sure and assured, in which they can place their trust and confidence... to rely upon for all times and seasons; and then people walk around in disgust and disbelief with a quay-sera sera attitude. DeGarmo & Key sang a song titled War With The World. As I consider the values that the believer holds fast to through prayer and understanding of the Word in comparison to the agendas and philosophies being presented by society and the battle couldn't be anymore clear. It has permeated our leadership as a culture. It is influencing our youth. It is creeping into the ministry of the church. So, on this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for the leadership of today's generation. Pray that they would be men and women strong in the faith, strong in the Word, full of conviction, truth and the Holy Spirit. Pray that they would help to instill Godly values and Biblical principles; that this generation would be a counter-culture to a world that has turned themselves upside down. Pray that they would be a voice of clarity in a society that has filled their hearts and minds with confusion. Lord we need your help. Creator of this world, That you have set us apart from. For your glory alone. - PNC I trust you've had a wonderful Mother's Day.
I was a little thrown off in writing yesterday's post, that between that and the holiday, my direction for today was well... nowhere to be found. So I trust that you've had a great day and made the most of it. Which leads us to this matter of hindrances. There's all sorts of reasons for a lack or shortage of effectiveness and efficiency in ministry. Sometimes it's a matter of discipline. Other times it's a matter of resources. Perhaps fear. The list, if not endless, will certainly take more time to write than it will for you to read. But as I reflected on the timing of this church's tragic loss of their pastor and today's celebration of motherhood, the conflict and tension between effectiveness and ineffectiveness is strong. Indeed, losses sustained that are beyond our control play a huge role. Especially when that loss is through people parting from this life or simply parting ways. On this mother's day, strained relationships, likewise contribute greatly in the health, accomplishment and success that one enjoys. Bad decisions and poor choices haunt us all, laced with words we'd rather not have said, sentiments we'd rather have not shared and attitudes and actions that we'd been better off to not display. We're desirous for people to be true to themselves while asking them to conform anytime and everytime there is an offense, whether real or perceived. Does this not lay the groundwork for greater hypocrisy? A hindrance that is perhaps close to the top of that list we didn't delve into at great length. How can the church and it's ministry be effective if we allow the hindrances in our lives to affect our response to God's working in our lives and the Holy Spirits' drawing us into greater things for the advancement of the kingdom of God? I'm listening to the Benjamin Gate softly as I write this and the song Hands just played. On this Mother's Day of an #effectiveSunday, will you make these words your prayer? Jesus I feel you near me * Your hands giving life to my body Your spirit healing me * Holding my heart in sweet security God I need your grace * Let your spirit rescue me God I need your love * Let your grace shine through me Jesus You fill the space in me * Sealing these dreams in shapes of purity * Freeing my heart to deep eternity God I need your grace * Let your spirit rescue me God I need your love * Let your grace shine through me God I seek your face * Let your spirit rescue me God I need your love * Let your grace shine through me Let it be so; unhindered. For the glory of God And the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC It's Teacher Appreciation Week... which naturally got me thinking. Dangerous, I know, right?
I've been blessed with some great teachers. As have you. And probably a handful that we didn't appreciate quite so much. But not just the teachers that we had in the school system. I miss the days of Sunday school. I don't remember elaborate children's ministry programs on Sunday morning. For nursery and toddler aged kids, if I recall yes. But grade school kids... seems like we were in the main sanctuary for service. But Sunday school before service, that was cool. It's amazing what's instilled, especially in those smaller class settings, when you are learning and studying Bible stories and Biblical principles. Small groups today. Small class yesterday. Same concept. So much education. So much information. So much opportunity for access and acquisition of information. Facts and opinions; twisted frameworks and flawed perceptions. As life gets more complex and the issues of life become more complicated, we need the truth of God's Word to cut clear and quick to the heart of humanity and it's sinful nature. There's a reason it's not popular. It's because it's not comfortable! But what is uncomfortable is often what is necessary for growth and maturity. And that truth doesn't disappear, nor diminish when transitioning from childhood to adulthood. In fact, if anything, that process increases in both complexity and frequency. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that teachers and pastors of students would continue to teach and declare the truth of God's Word as well as the nature of His character. May they not only know the works of God, but also know His ways; that they would be able to trust God, even when they can't trace Him. Pray that God would help pastors and teachers and grant them wisdom and discernment as they navigate these increasingly difficult issues of life and the conversations involved. Pray the power of the Holy Spirit would bring clarity to the chaos and confusion, as they minister to lead and guide the next generation into all truth. One day at a time. One life at a time. One lesson at a time. For the glory of God. - PNC Yes, I know this is a very late #communitySaturday post.
I suppose there are any number of reasons, most of which probably don't matter; although it didn't help that I didn't really have a sense of direction early in the day before we were gone and all that followed. By I think God is working this out, even as I type this, as it prompted me to remember that our engagement with the concept of community begins at home. For if you can't function in a "community" of people with whom you share a "few" hundred square feet of real estate, including the most personal of common areas such as eating and personal hygiene, then it's not hard to imagine you'll have trouble in other areas as well, whether it be on campus or in the corporation. I just remembered this afternoon's conversation that could just have easily prompted this post, but it didn't. But now that I think about it, maybe I'll tie it back in. So, the kids are supposed to be getting ready for bed. It's bedtime when they start. The oldest can't find the top that goes to the favorite pair of pajamas. Emotions start ramping up. Which shuts off the ability to hear what I'm saying. So, my frustration rises. Now, I'm up, trying to help locate this. And, no luck. Now we're having a conversation about not listening and not doing as told, and if this was taken care of, maybe it would not be an issue. Minutes pass and no avail. 10 and 20 later. More frustration. This is not looking good. Parents, you know how this goes. Everyone is in a bad mood. Finding it later isn't an option and I'm more ready for bed now, than they are. So, now I'm spent. Time to talk with the oldest. Calmer heads need to prevail. It takes some more work, but one way or another, my message needs to be made clear. This ordeal and everything that got in the way, has to be rectified. The youngest enters the room, maybe 10 minutes later. This is now a teaching moment. after almost an hour has been spent from what was bedtime. And I use that word deliberately. This hour was not useful nor beneficial. Yes, I heard sorry, but that's like for getting caught, rather than true remorse. No... the teaching moment is now an investment. I'm offering my apologies to my kids in true remorse. Perhaps we should pray, God helps us find this. Do you want to pray or you want me to? Oldest points. Right. I pray. Prayer couldn't have lasted 90 seconds. Help us find this top; what matters to us, matters to you...and the bigger picture.... our attitudes, our words, our responsibilities... in Jesus name. No kidding... less than two minutes later. Youngest kid walks up to me with pajama top in hand. "Where was this?" In the oldest's bed. The kid who told me a few minutes ago they saw it 3 weeks ago folded in the family room, apparently forgot they wore it to bed and took it off in bed, who knows how many days ago. So, where's the prayer for this post and what's the tie-in you mentioned earlier? Conversation between my dad and I during our visit for a few minutes this afternoon. He was having a rough day and my not buying the parts to fix my mower yet didn't help the conversation... which involved possibly fixing something else that we were looking at. I left in bad mood, he went back to whatever he was working on, no doubt more frustrated than before we had stopped by. Towards the end of the conversation with the kids about the lost pajama's, Dad texted me. Offering his apologies and that he was ordering the parts for me. Yeah... upon God answering our prayer, I extended grace to the kids, because God gave us grace for the lost item that matters to the kid. And in the middle of me parenting my kids, I receive the same grace from my Dad. And the reminder that, apparently, no matter how old you are, you're never done being a parent. Nor, loving on your kids while teaching them important life lessons. :-) While it is still #communitySaturday, pray that God would help us in the most basic realm of community: family. Pray that God would help us as parents, to reflect the love, grace and character of God to our children, especially in moments of instruction, correction and discipline. Pray for our kids, that they would understand the values of respect and responsibility, of care and compassion for both people and possessions. May God help us to be wise stewards of our time, our treasure and our talents. Pray that Godly values would be instilled for generations and that generational curses would be broken. Pray for the miraculous in homes of brokenness, despair and dysfunction and healing in the marriages that are of the same. For how can God heal our land If He doesn't not heal homes built upon it. For we cannot treat community like family If we don't learn how to be family with those who are just a few feet away. - PNC |
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AuthorJust a man, attempting to fulfill God's plan. Husband, Dad, Dreamer. Blogger. Archives
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