WAR ROOM
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WAR ROOM
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Once again, I'm reminded of the great power and comfort that comes from a child sitting on Dad's lap. Kids have rough days just like the adults experience. And just because their struggles don't include deadlines, financial concerns and stressful conversations doesn't mean their problems aren't legitimate and important.
If it's important to them, it's important to us. Likewise, no matter where you are in your faith journey, whether in the pew or behind the pulpit, the same is true for us in relationship to God. If it matters to us, it matters to Him. And sometimes, there's nothing that will "fix" the ordeal, than to climb into the arm of our Heavenly Father and let our spirit have it's breaking moment. I think sometimes we get caught... like we can't go to God if it's not a matter of life and death, literally; with eternity hanging in the balance. God is a God of order and design and purpose. It doesn't matter where it ranks on the scale of importance. If it is a problem that wreaking havoc somewhere in our lives, mentally, physically, spiritually, emotionally, financially, relationally or otherwise, let God have His way to restore order and purpose and bring to the forefront the elements and pieces that are lost and broken in our lives. Somehow we handle the kids and young people in our lives to experience such defining moments, yet we resist and deny ourselves the opportunity to have such an experience with God. How foolish. Let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday for pastors having difficulty with the Father. Where they have patience and understanding with those whom they minister, but not with themselves, pray God would cover them in grace. Pray for a spirit of correction where there is imbalance and misalignment. Pray for encouragement and the comfort of the Holy Spirit, for whatever it is in their own heart and life that is causing a rift and disconnect between them and God; in whatever arena of life it exists. All things made in. In the arms of God's love and His grace. For His glory. - PNC
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Some things never change. For instance, the frequency of tendencies and battles of your youth, you later watch as parents, play out in your own kids. Take as an example, homework. I didn't always wait until the last minute to complete projects. But it did happen often enough. And while the kids aren't bombarded with the stuff yet, life has enough going on that it feels time is getting away all too fast, that due dates are approaching faster than the should.
So, whether it's "last minute" on purpose or on accident, it's often necessary. Planning and preparation go a long way. And once again, I feel as though I should be the last person to be writing about time management and the threat and temptation of procrastination. Yes, it's amazing what can be accomplished under pressure, with deadlines looming. But it doesn't have to be that way. If only we did what we were supposed to do, when it needed to be done. It's a discipline issue. One that is neither easily learner, nor easily taught. Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help pastors struggling to learn the lessons of life that we all wished we had learned sooner; and hope that our kids learn more quickly than we did. Pray that God would give them wisdom, to communicate effectively both in conversation and in lifestyle. Pray also, that we would not delay or procrastinate when it comes to that which God would have us to accomplish. May we teach our youth to remain ever so sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, even if and when we still struggle with it ourselves. For the glory of God And the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC Continued thoughts and prayers for my friends, combined with Monday nights' discussion on what it means to not only be a man, but in particular, a Godly man has me thinking about pastors and their kids. We've all seen and heard stories of pastors who placed the congregation before their family and both suffered at various times, to varying degrees.
How much more detrimental for pastors' whose focus is children and young people, while they have kids and teens at home. The difference may be minimal and the distinction faint, but I have to think that certain situations may bring certain emotions to the forefront. Like does a spouse feel neglect when the other pastoral spouse spends more time helping other marriages than work on their own. Or the youth pastor that talks more with the teens in the group than the teens under their roof. So it goes back to the conclusion we came to Monday night. Life is nothing, if not lived intentionally. And like a said the other day about $1 spent on this is one less dollar spend on something else, so too, is 10 minutes spent on one activity is 10 minutes not spent on another. Or with another. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help pastors who are struggling to manage their time and relationships well. Pray for grace and understanding, especially with their families. Pray for balance, where perhaps things have not been balanced. Pray for trust to be restored, where it has been broken. Pray for healing in those relationships where there has been hurt and damage. Pray that God would help them to be better leaders, not only for the family of God, but for their own families. not to be perceived as a perfect example, but an experienced example. For we were made for community And the family of God begins at home. For His glory. - PNC Change is interesting. It seems like the more we know that it is coming; that it's expected or at least planned, we seem to do better in our reactions and response. It might not always be change for the better, but the advance warning seems to at least soften the blow. However, I've noticed that over time (read: age), change seems less inviting.
Stability and familiarity lead to a level of comfort that is hard to willing disrupt. Likewise, when disrupted, it makes it harder to cope. Kids and young people struggle as well, depending on the circumstance. But by and large, they adapt much quicker... and with more enthusiasm. And I'm just wondering... It seems, even in our walks of faith, for all of us, that with time and life experience, having witnessed all the incredible things God has accomplished, that we can be or seem more resistant to change than we should. Even when God's hand is in it, something inside us says, yeah, I'm not so sure. We know all believers go through this conversation. Yet somehow, we think pastors don't. Or at least not as much as we. And perhaps that's true. Perhaps, though, just perhaps, they struggle with change more. Remember this, greater resistance is often met with greater determination. Be careful which position you take, as it will vary for every issue of life. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that pastors would recognize when God is work, making changes. Pray that pastors would not give in to the tempation to resist or hesitate to the working hand of God. May there be a continual spirit of obedience as they lead; setting an example that being adaptive to God's plan is a good thing, regardless of one's life experience and faith journey. May that experience not stand in the way of what's next in their ministry, but serve to enhance the journey as God leads them. For the glory of God And the cause of Jesus Christ For future generations. - PNC It's really hard some days, to keep current events off of a site dedicated to ministry, church leadership and burnout. Yet, some days, it's purely unavoidable. Today is the day we pray over those who ministry to your children and youth. And while New York celebrates legislation that permits abortion up to the moment of birth essentially, hearts break. As does God's, obviously.
And have you noticed a pattern? Those who lecture and push for care and compassion on so many other issues and area's of life, some of them sensitive topics, some of them political hot-button problems, somehow are all okay with this. And it simply doesn't compute. The disconnect seems as though it would be hard to miss, and yet it eludes so many. Just stroll through social media. Or not. It's been said that good writers, write. Great writers steal from other writers. So let me quote Matt Walsh, who offers my exact sentiment on New York government's horrific move. "Please don't complain about deporting children if you support murdering them... You are standing on a mountain of dead kids while you sermonize about being compassionate to kids." - Matt Walsh Deportation, obviously a hot topic, in it's own right. The proper care and treatment of animals, sure. But let's put this in another perspective. In New York, lethal injection for criminals is illegal? Lethal injection for the unborn? By all means. This is just... well, not just, for certain. I wrote a while back, they we aren't raising kids, but we are raising adults. I didn't coin the phrase, and I'm sure more educated and well-known can expound in greater detail than myself. But it seems society is bent on pushing kids farther away from the people that we would hope they would become. Perhaps not by our words and maybe not by our actions. But somewhere down the road, the next generation will reflect up these current days and wonder... what in the world were those adults thinking? Sorry, kids. We weren't. And too many simply refused to do so. As the blind lead the blind, they traversed a road against better counsel and more importantly, ignored those, who while not perfect, tried to bring a perspective of common sense and a belief of Godly truth to the conversation. Nothing will ever be built by your hands, if you are killing that which is being divinely created by God's. On this heart-breaking #youthPastorWednesday, pray that we would not fail in training our children up in the way they should go, so that when they are old, they will not depart. Pray for a revelation in the leadership, of both within the church and the world, who have departed. May there be a return to God, that we may properly lead and raise our kids. Pray for today's youth. May God guard their hearts and minds and keep His hand of protection over them, as the days are indeed, growing ever more evil by the hour. That our cries would be heard from heaven, That God would come forgive us And heal our land. Son of David, have mercy on us. For your glory alone. - PNC Truth and consequences. Cause and effect. Action and equal, but opposite reaction. Am I the only one amazed at just how quickly, as adults, we seem to forget sometimes that every thing we do, not only makes an impact, but also prompts a response.
The response may be verbal. It might be internal. The response could be immediate. It could just as easily be delayed. Yet in our finite minds, if there is not an immediate repercussion, then somehow we fall for the trick there might not be a repercussion down the road. We learned it as kids. We teach it to our kids. We remind our friends. We criticize our leaders. Then we live our personal lives as if the truth of this matter applies to everyone else but us. And how very wrong we are. Words make impressions. Ideas of consequences. And when truth is cast aside, chaos ensues. We can do no greater disservice to ourselves, than to believe a lie and then compound it, by sharing it with our youth. As a great pastor once said, every generation needs its' own revelation of God. We can set the foundation and begin the build, but we must prepare them to live a life that will seek the face of God and accomplish His purpose for their lives. Even when we miss the mark in leading them along the way. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that today's youth would hear the truth, seek the truth and know the truth for themselves. Pray for a revelation for today's generation. In a time of great chaos and confusion, pray that God would bring clarity, both through His Word and through prayer and preaching. May God guard hearts and minds from the lies of the enemy; that we would not be tempted to believe, follow and live based on half-truths and false premises. May we live and serve faithfully in the calling and gifts God has granted to us, whether as parents, pastors, leaders or friends. For all of us are better Because of one of us Just as all are redeemed Because of One. For the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC Yesterday's post go me thinking... dangerous, I know. But back on topic. I found myself thinking about the power of "calling out".
It's a special individual who can see in people, what they don't see in themselves, and call things out. Sometimes, it's calling out an point of correction or area of concern. Other times, it's more of a calling forth moment. Calling forth, that which exists in obscurity, unseen many, but noticed by one. Calling forth that which was dead and speaking life. How many times do we see this in the life of Christ? With Lazarus, naturally. But with the sick. With the disciples. The woman at the well. And numerous others, in similar moments. It's a special individual, because it is a special skill. We know not everyone has it, because it seems that we are so profoundly moved when we either experience it in our own lives, or witness it happen in the life of someone else. Yet, if there is any compassion and care with in the family of God or within your own family for that matter, it is a skill and perspective that we should utilize. Put it into practice daily and to good use for eternity. Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, God would help each of us, especially those circumstances, ministries and opportunities were we have opportunity to engage in conversation with kids and young people. Pray that God would grant wisdom and discernment as we speak life and truth into their lives. May we speak with as much love and conviction during times of correction as we would during times of support and encouragement. Pray for the power and quickening of the Holy Spirit to call things forth into existence; whether it be something within that has died and needs to be revived or truth that has yet to be revealed to them. May the next generation arise with great purpose, because of the generation that spoke into them with clarity and purpose. World-changers, Because their world was changed by God, And by those who spoke His truth into lives of all ages. For the glory of God. - PNC Welcome to 2019.
I trust your new year is off to a great start. And I hope you closed 2018 better than you entered. Or perhaps at least with a better perspective, if through difficult circumstances. My apologies for the abrupt break in daily posts back in mid-October. While I've tried to keep personal matters from standing in the way of this undertaking, the truth is, I suffered the very thing we pray about daily. My energy level was getting low and for those frequent and consistent readers, you noticed the daily prayers were showing up at the end of the day rather than the start of the day. I was consistently playing catch-up. And that consistent state of engagement while drain you faster than simply entering with fresh energy and maintaining the pace. What better time is there to do that, than the physical start of a new year. Hence the title.. RE_Boot. Tomorrow is "back to work" day. And it should come with an accompanying spirit filled with excitement and rejuvenation. Should we not be as excited as the kids are to go back to school? Mine are. Perhaps yours are not. One day in and it's entirely possible you are not liking the prospect of how daunting this year appears. Yet there is a glimmer of hope and encouragement that it just might go better than planned, hoped or expected. The positive outlook and steadfast hope that we attempt to instill in the lives of our kids from a young age is the very perspective we struggle to maintain on a daily basis, even when our social media pages are filled with memes that remind us that "tomorrow is a new book with 365 blank pages". So, the question remains, what will God write in our lives this coming year? And more importantly, what will we write into and over the lives of our youth? Am I feeling a year older, thanks to a recent birthday? Yes. Am I ready for my kids to be a year older as well? Absolutely not. All the more reason, to pray.... ... on this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that we would be people who what not allow the troubles and trials of life to take such a toll on us that we pass it on to our kids. While we may fall and fail at various times, may we teach and train them in the process of rising again. May they not be controlled by feelings and emotions as many in today's culture are prone to do; but may they live under the influence and anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pray His presence would fall afresh in our own lives, as we enter the unknown of 2019. Pray that fear would not control our decisions, but that our faith would follow Christ into the ordained destiny that He has purposed for our lives from the foundations of the Earth and Time. To the New Year: May it be the best one ever As directed by the Hand of God For His glory alone. - PNC There's a problem with a strong sense of self-awareness. Probably a few. And I guess, it's probably not so much a problem as it is, an ongoing struggle of realization, work and growth... repeatedly.
It's the fact that while we hope and strive to be the best that we can be; not compared to others, but to what we know to do and to be who God has called us to be; yet knowing how badly we miss the mark. Royally miss. Is it difficult to watch those in positions of influence and leadership fall and fail? Yes. And it's not the stuff that makes national news or spreads church-wide or even that which stays within the four walls of the home. Goodness does not make perfection. It does however make plenty of room for improvement. I'm not the greatest dad. Despite my youngest child's continual affirmation that I am... in her heart and mind. Yet, nothing hits harder than the moment where I realize that if I were watching myself from the outside, that "that moment" was not a "best Dad" moment. And I think we do the same with pastors over every ministry, but especially with youth. The impressionable mind doesn't miss much, despite the parents understanding to the contrary. "It's trash. You know it's trash. It was in your hand. How did you not throw it away?" (a recent conversation with a kid) I think part of the appreciation that we find ourselves possessing for great leaders is knowing full well that they understand that greatness did not come overnight. It was a long process and it was significant amount of time and investment towards continual learning and improvement. Indeed, pride does go before a fall and those are the ones we often don't mind remaining low. However, humility is becoming and it's those leaders in which we desire to see overcome and rise again; greater and better than they were before. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that there would indeed be a humility about our lives, as we lead kids and young people, both in the faith and life as pastors at church and spiritual leaders at home. While pastors strive not to fail, pray that more importantly that would strive to never quit. May there be a grace and strength about their lives to walk in humility before God and walk in wisdom before those they lead. Pray that they would not be a source of frustration and struggle to youth, but rather a source of courage and power; that they are not defined by their faults and failures, but by who they are in Christ and what they accomplish for His glory with the talents He has given them and the calling He has placed on them. For the glory of God And the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC So, here's my rhetorical question for the day. How many more reminders do we need thanks to the power of social media, to be reminded that someone is always looking. Perhaps you read or heard about the teacher who is now unemployed (I read that she resigned, but now, also saw a piece that she was fired). Either way, it was because of a social media post; an evil suggestion, written in the tone of political retribution with real-life, criminal consequences if someone were to follow through on it.
Whatever your political leaning, things like this are absolute craziness. As adults, we're always reading messages. And for youth and young people... they are always processing messages. They don't catch the sarcasm. They don't always understand the nuance; the satire. They don't always process the funny wrapped up in the truth, nor do they catch the profound that is buried behind the lie. Communication is challenging enough. The timing of what is said. The understanding of what is not said. The approach matters almost as much as the content. The explanation matters as much as the intent. It's about what is heard as much as it is, what is said. Communication is not for the faint of heart. Yet it is crucial for our survival. And if our identity and purpose is found in Christ, then it doesn't matter how many messages are shared that are wrong. If the message of God gets delivered wrong, then all other messages pail in comparison when it comes to making a life-changing impact. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would grant wisdom and discernment in the fullness of one's communication, both inside and outside of ministry. Pray that in the crucial moments that matter most; today's youth would understand both the message that God has for their life and the message that is being imparted to them by spiritual leaders and other authority figures in their life. May all of us be careful in choosing our words and the tones in which we speak. For as ideas have consequences, So do the messages that stem from them. May ours reflect and glorify God. - PNC Parenthood:
The on call, 24/7 job from which you never retire. It's amazing the potential that kids and youth have these days. So much so, that even in watching and hearing some of their stories, makes me wonder what I've been doing all these years! As if a couple too many have been somewhat wasted. It's not that I'm not grateful for what's transpired; the people I've shared my time with and the outcomes that have brought me thus far. But some days, "what if" looms large. Take for instance, the story of Edison, which I was reminded of earlier today. One day, his grade school sent home a note. His mother teared up, as he asked her to read it. She replied, that it stated that he was a genius. The school was too small to serve him well and she should teach him at home. Obviously the rest is history. But is it? Years later, Edison found the note from that school. And as I mentioned a few days, it turns out parents lie to their kids for conversations they aren't ready to have after all. Fortunately, for the genius Edison, it paid off. The note actually stated that Edison as addled. The school was unable to teach him and they instructed he not return to class. Wow. We're in a day and age when "everyone" is seemingly concerned about the messages we are sending to our kids. And yet for all the concern, the messages are consistently inconsistent. And there is no greater reminder of that truth than a few day engaged in the laughter and stress of parenthood. And a few more after that, engaged in ministry. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that pastors would be among those who would deliver consistent messages. Consistent with the truth of God's Word. Consistent with the mission and values of their local church community. Pray they partner with parents who are working to raise kids who fear and honor God with their lives and in their homes. May God work the miraculous in the lives of those who are in difficult places; where they may be at a crux intersection, like Edison's mom stood one afternoon. While they enemy has already tried to ruin the child, Christ bids them to come. For the glory of God. - PNC I have a friend who is a university president; who among his many brilliant insights and perspectives on a variety of issues has a simply profound, three-word phrase.
Ideas have consequences. Just when you think we've encountered troubling times on society's landscape, something gets more outrageous, more bizarre... another level of unbelief with increasing frustration regarding the process and procedure of how things transpire. You look a situation or circumstance and ask, how have we arrived at this place? Then you reflect on the steps and the courses of action that were taken after a direction was set. Wisdom would tell you to walk; and when things go wrong, it's easily correctable. However, when you through caution and warning out the window and take off running, the warning signs are harder to see, let alone notice with enough time to respond. Thus, we find ourselves in trouble. All because we looked at an issue and thought the boundaries were too restrictive. So we compromised and made allowance with "safe-guards". We changed how we present and teach and affirm and correct. And I'm not against change. But clearly, certain movers and shakers in our culture were convinced certain changers were being made for the better and after decades of results, perhaps a rude awakening is bringing us to a place of understanding that change for change' sake isn't enough. Compromise has it's time and place. But like anything else, it depends on the people involved and the state of the relationship. Otherwise, it's simple dilution. And given enough time, whatever was once intact, will fall apart. Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would grant wisdom and discernment as they lead, both in ministry and life. Pray that they would exercise discretion as they make decisions and give direction. May they be careful in the arenas in which they compromise and truly consider the motive and reasoning to do so. Pray they would be the influencers and leaders in the lives of the youth, where for many of them, we have failed in days gone by. Better. Not on our own merit, But by what Christ has accomplished in us. For the glory of God. - PNC The difference between hitting the refresh button and coming to the place where you realize that you need to regroup...
Time. As I reflect on certain circumstances of my younger days and even those in recent years, I know this. Life fights in the heavyweight class. And it does not fight fair. I say this, understanding full well that there's a ton that can't be explained, and furthermore that I can't explain. I don't even try. I'm also a firm believer in the sovereignty of God and the promise that He does work everything for the good. What was meant to destroy us does not have to define us Our identity is not found in the trauma and the tragedy of life; but what Christ accomplished through His life. Having said that; however, when life knocks in, knocks hard and knocks done, you don't necessarily need to be refreshed. It takes a process of regrouping and getting your bearings. Not an easy skill to pick up and often learned on the front-lines of life; it is a process of strategy and developing a game plan. To answer the all-too important question: What are you going to do? I know, that's a daily decision question. But in the wake of major life events and states of transition and change, the question is critical. Without a game-plan, without a strategic approach and without a proper perspective and understanding of what's going on, it's a question that if it doesn't haunt you, will at the very least keep you up at night. Like so many other life lessons, I wish I had learned this earlier. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for those pastors who have been knocked down. Pray that God strengthen them. Pray they would find wisdom and strategy as the regroup, get perspective and rise again. Pray for the lessons that will be learned and the decisions that will be made in the days to come. May they take the opportunities to intentionally build up and speak into the lives of the youth; that while life does play hard and often unfair, God is with them. Never leaving. Never forsaking. Pray they would know and rest, that while they may not yet have a plan, God does. Plans to for a hope and a future, To prosper and not harm. For the glory of God. - PNC "They were that close to the action; and had a meager faith." - Allister Begg.
I had an early start at work this morning, and happened to catch part of Allister's sermon being broadcast. He was talking about the disciples being on the boat in the storm when Jesus walks on the water. And yet, just prior, He had fed the 5000. Is it that hard to believe that one miracle was "possible" but walking on water was somehow now, not possible? This seemingly has transitioned into a part 3, on the concept of hiding in ministry. You're "in the group" and "in the know" and so assumptions are made about one's faith and prayer life and every other aspect of their life and that things are going well, or they are standing incredibly strong when things are not... going well. We assume a "closeness to the action" of God equates to a strong and great faith. And yet Allister points out, that isn't always the case; as evidenced by the disciples. Perhaps, as much as this could be true for those in ministry, certainly it's true, if not even more, of the youth of church leaders. They witness the faith and ministry conducted by their parents, and yet can disengage to a level of meager faith and even, God forbid, a missing and abandoned faith. And may that be our prayer. By all means, pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that pastors would have great faith as they lead the church and its' people. Likewise, though, pray for their children, who are watching and learning from the front row (both literally and figuratively). May they come to a place in their generation, where they experience their own revelation of God and come to a genuine and passionate faith of their own, placed in Jesus Christ. May they not rely on the coattails of parents and grandparents and other pastors and teachers. Pray God would do a great work in their lives; for the purpose and plans that He has ordained specifically to their lives. Pray they would not live in the shadows of ministry, but step into their own, as Christ is displayed in their lives. May the temptation to hide in ministry, whether it is the pastor or the pastors family doing so, be cast aside. That we would step into the fullness Of what God has called us forth to complete For the glory of God - PNC It's a weird thing...well, maybe not weird. I'm not sure what to call it. I look at life and consider all that I don't know and find myself wonder, how did I go through life and miss picking up that information? Especially if it was easily accessible? Why didn't I learn how to do this and that, have a certain experience, gain certain understanding and perspective... things that would have been greatly beneficial in adulthood.
Conversely, I consider what I do know and the perspective that I do have and consider myself grateful... for while there is much that I wish I knew "how" to do, there are important things which know "what" to do is sufficient. Why is that the case? Because having a what is workable. The how part of things can be navigated and figured out. Lots of time invested and energy exerted, but the process can be worked. The circumstances that stop you in utter confusion and blankness, however, are incredibly frustrating if you find yourself responding as if you are useless. "I don't know WHAT I am to do here." If there was a goal, or a purpose... a desired outcome or expectation; you at least know two things. You know where you are. You know where you to go. The power of one's accomplishments has many factors, for sure. The why, we may or may not fully understand. The how may or may not be clearly spelled out in instruction form. But where there is a teachable moment of talking or showing what to do accomplishes much. I'm quickly and more frequently realizing that I would have an easier time knowing what to do as an adult, if there were more "what to do" moments in my youth. In many areas of life. But what if, in matters of faith, I didn't know "what". Lots would be missing. Much more would never get done. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that God would give clarity to both pastors and the young people that they lead, in the circumstances of life and faith where they are unsure of "what" they are do. Whatever the matters and issues of life are, pray that God would give them insight and revelation. Pray that the foundation of faith would be well established at an early age. Pray that pastors would not get frustrated by that which they don't know and understand, but live in confidence of Who they know and the "what" for which they were created. May the help to establish that same understanding in the lives of the young people they lead. For the glory of God And the cause of Jesus Christ. - PNC Kids are back in school or are about to be, and Michael W. Smith's classic song, Live & Learn. Indeed we are always living and learning, Michael. In fact, somewhere buried in the archives, is a post after the song's title that expands on this. But in a slightly different direction than I had originally planned for this #youthPastorWednesday, are the words of James McDonald.
There's a difference between a student of the Word and a servant of the Word. Tell me that is convicting! It's the difference between knowing information and knowing what to do with the information. There's so much more that could be written... and I probably have in the past three plus years. But I'm not sure that I could wish anything more, for pastors, for today's youth and even myself for that matter; to not only know more about God and more of God, but to be doing what He would have us to do with what He has already shared with us through Scripture. Let that be the challenge and prayer for our lives, on this #youthPastorWednesday. May we be, not only better students of the Bible, but better servants of it. Pray that our youth and the pastors and parents who lead them, would instill and build a foundation of faith that trusts in God alone and seeks His face for their purpose and calling in life. May their identity forever be found in Jesus Christ. Pray for an ever-increasing desire, for the Holy Spirit to be active and at work; bringing fresh revelation and insight, now only through the power of prayer, but by the reading and study of God's Word. Study, to show thyself approved Serve, in order to be found faithful. For the glory of God. - PNC 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 It's crazy to think that the school year is practically around the corner! Would someone like to tell me where summer went already? I'm assuming your church has probably already done their Vacation Bible School for the kids. Our new church that we started attending earlier this year, is holding theirs this week... in fact, it's an evening VBS all week, which makes it kinda cool for more parents to be involved without wreaking havoc on work schedule's and the like.
It has me reflecting on the importance and indeed the priority, of young people learning not only about the ways of God at a tender age, but the character and nature of God as well. That's an important distinction that one of my pastor's was careful to point out regarding Moses' life and the people of Israel. The nation knew His works, Moses knew Him. I'll be the first to admit, my imperfection. Should anyone stand before to account for this truth about my life, it's probably my wife! I don't have it all together, as I've mentioned many times, on this site for the last three years. I try not to think too often about bad decisions, improper thoughts and statements of regret. Am I talking about 20 years ago or 20 hours ago? Yes. Sadly. Conversely, though, I don't want to the be the guy in the parable who prayed in gratitude that he wasn't as bad as the guy next to him. I look at myself, knowing full well, that while it would be easy to compare to others, I can only compare myself today to yesterday. And as I consider yesterday, those decisions, thoughts and words and deeds could have been astronomically worse than what they were. Were they horrible by the standards of others? Probably to some. But they were particularly horrible for me, because I knew better. Not because of my cranium knowledge, but because of my heart condition. I look back upon my stupidity with a sense of gratitude for the remnant of faith that remained from my youth that somehow prevented me from outcomes worse than the consequences that I actually endured. Emotionally, relationally, spiritually, financially. Was it disaster? Yes. But nothing that God couldn't redeem. And that's what I want for my kids and your kids. As parents and pastors, we don't and won't always agree with what they do. Ever. Well into adulthood, your kids will have you scratching your head and your parents will do the same to you. I don't just want a remnant of faith that will keep and guard my kids. I want a foundation and building of faith within their lives and spirits that will not only withstand whatever the world throws against them as well as whatever self-implosion of their life that may occur; that even their foolishness would not be their demise nor destruction. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for this generation of young people, and the parents and pastors who raise them. Pray for an unshakable foundation of faith to be established within their hearts, minds and souls. May the Word of truth and the Holy Spirit guide their steps, illuminate their paths and guard all that is within them. Pray God would help us to lead and train them well, despite all our faults, misgivings and imperfections. For we are only made whole Through the blood of Jesus Christ. May we live our lives, un-wasted. For the glory of God. - 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 |
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AuthorJust a man, attempting to fulfill God's plan. Husband, Dad, Dreamer. Blogger. Archives
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