Well, it's happened again. Every once in a while... I've got nothing.

Nothing for today. The occasional idea and passing thought, but nothing ever really stood out.

Sometimes, that's how it is. I know Scripture tells us to always be prepared to give an answer for the hope that lies within us. And that's the easy part. That's big picture. As the conversation progresses regarding whatever subject matter or problem someone has approached you with; explaining the reason for our internalized hope is nearly second nature.

As it should be, for those who have taken on the nature of Christ.

For the rest of the issues of life that people bring to the table of ministry, having the "answers" is always that easy.

Somehow, we know God is sufficient and we understand and have witness the working power of prayer, and yet all to often, one's story is heard, and the person who hears it finds themselves speechless. We've all been there. And I'm sure pastors have as well.

And if I'm frustrated, to be in a position, where I feel as though I have nothing to offer in terms of advice or wisdom or whatever, I can only imagine how pastors feel, struggling with similar feelings of helplessness towards those looking for help as well as hope.

So, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would give them wisdom and the words to communicate effectively in addressing the needs and problems that come to them on any given day. Pray that God would give them insight as they listen and words of knowledge as they pray. May the speak life to the dark and troubled situations that are brought to their attention; encouragement to the hopeless and perspective to the confused. Pray they would not feel empty-handed, feeling unable, unprepared or incapabable to help those who come to them in their time of need.

For indeed, prayer does work
And God is sufficient,
But we were made for community.
For His glory.

- PNC

Reminders come in all forms. From the glorious and noteworthy, to the nonchalant and matter-of-fact. And somewhere in the mix, is the painful and frustrating.  And what's today's reminder?

Every organization has someone in management, who will not only have an off-day, but when you least expect it, make it known that such is your present environment. Certain personalities, certain circumstances and industries... you can account for such possibilities; you can set a level of realistic expectation. There will be days of certain frustration and potential for problems and emotion And the culture and mood will not be one that someone would want to endure for an extended period of time, whether for hours, days, weeks, or even years.

What's the point? I'm not sure there's a more saddening statement to hear, than one speak aloud, the frustrations of the boss in the workplace and it is being caused by someone within the church leadership or even the pastoral staff.

I really don't know what to offer or say in response. But just consider your own frustration and move it to a church environment. Does it change your perspective of what's going on? More importantly, does it change how you should respond? And it seems as though the disappointment of it all, would rise to another level.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors who are perhaps, unknowingly, creating a frustrating and difficult working environment. Whether it be for personal reasons, ministerial pressures or problems and stresses that they are simply having a hard time managing, pray that God would do a work in their hearts and minds. May He give them solutions where there problems, direction where there is confusion and peace  in the midst of storms. Pray that God would wisdom, for all parties involved, to know how to properly engage and respond, in a manner that glorifies God, honors each other and allows for truth to be spoken with grace and love.

Working together, better.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I'm reminded once again, of a very simple, yet profound truth. It's basic to the process, but crucial in our understanding.

With great organization, comes great effectiveness and efficiency.

Correspondingly, where there is a lack of organization, the results of effectiveness and efficiency will not only be hindered, but possibly elusive. Consider the beauty of cool looking puzzle. Everyone is impressed with the final result. But at the beginning? Well... enthusiasm to see the project through to completion often wanes, with out a plan of attack and a systematic approach, to see what all the pieces are and how and when they fit into the grand scheme.

The power of organization. It does so well, when everyone is healthy, firing on all cylinders and each being utilized to the best of their abilities to accomplish what they were designed and created to do. But when things are a amiss, the motor will run not so smooth. And eventually, the wear and tear continues to create a decline and a detriment until problems emerge... at a very noticeable and perhaps troublesome level.

Which got me thinking. What's the difference between a church on the rise and a church in decline? The point person arranging the puzzle pieces. And that's not always the senior pastor. Yes, they need to be casting overall vision. But so should the ministries within the church. And integration to help each other. And the people who can move them to be self-sufficient ministries and organizations on their own, where and when possible and warranted.

The church should be so much more than just Sunday morning. And the most effective ones are.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for churches that are struggling to make the impact they hope they would. Whatever their current position and size, pray that God would drop a dream in the spirit, of what could exist. Pray they would understand what God would have them to accomplish and how to go about it, as well as putting the people in the right places and providing the resources necessary. Pray also, for those who are highly organized, dreaming big dreams. May God go before them, as they are stretched and challenged to believe and pursue the impossible.

Every community can be changed
By a church that is ready to go
And be the hands and feet of Christ extended.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Oh, for the power of positive community!

If you've been reading for any length of time, you know I try to stay focused on big picture concepts, rather than specific scenarios or real-life events. But yesterday was pretty incredible, and the parallel analogy that followed, was both profound and somewhat heart-breaking.

The Salvation Army has a #bedandbread program which runs 365 days a year. They serve 1.4 million meals and 131,000 beds. Their impact is amazing. And opening the website for donations Thursday at 8pm, then holding a radio-thon from  6-8, they raised just over 1.5 million dollars. In 24 hours!! And there goal was 1.4 million in funding.

It was incredible to listen to, as people called in and corporations stepped up, as well as various influencers, leaders and other well-known names contributed and set matching gift challenges. It was awesome.

And here's where the parallel universe came into play and I tread lightly. Earlier this week, you no doubt read of a certain political, presidential candidate raise a whopping, 6 million for his campaign (or just a few bucks shy, technically).

I understand campaigns are expensive. And this forum certainly isn't the spot to be debating politics, regardless of which side of the aisle you vote. But while politicians haggle and talk about societies ills and communities problems, those on the front lines of work; being the face of a solution to the face who is living the reality of the problem are changing lives and correspondingly, the world. Maybe not globally, but definitely, locally.

And what if every local community had one less "problem" for which politicians had to make so much a priority as a part of their election campaign as to generate, 5, 10 and 100 times over the financial need of these organizations.

It boggles the mind. And mine, as I sit typing about praying for pastors and church leadership, realizing even I, could pray so much more than I do. Yikes.

So, pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us to make a greater impact in our communities. While how the work gets done is important, pray that people wouldn't talk about doing something more than actually do something.  Pray that lives we be changed as relationships are built, help is offered and steps towards a different and better outcome are made. Pray for generational curses to be broken, in terms of drugs, addictions, abuse and poverty. Pray that homes and marriages and families would be restored, and hearts turned towards Christ.

For a community is only as healthy,
As the health of its citizenry.
May who live there
Live for the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I wanted to write this last Friday and well, time just slipped away. And sadly, sometimes like my kids, it didn't listen when I told it to knock it off. Alas. I spoke with a new found friend the Sunday before last in the moments before service and he shared his experience.

A couple weeks ago now, a team from church was headed on a medical-focus missions trip. A week later, another missions team was heading out. Both teams, to the same country. In the coming week, I forwarded a post that appeared on my social media feed, to a couple pastors. A team was in the process of being evacuated... from the country our teams were prepping to work

So, it turns out, my friends team, ended up leaving their missions trip early as well. They were there four days, before heading back... the climate was just that bad. And dangerous. To the point, they had to hire private security to get to them to the airport.

Just another reminder that the world's climate is definitely changing. And not the clouds. But hearts and minds. Agendas and objectives. Full of selfish desires and evil intents.

Some say the church isn't under attack. But around the world, that's pretty hard to miss. And as long as the church continues to work to advance the Gospel, so too, will those opposed attempt to do whatever it can to work against it.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for the missionaries that are living in incredibly difficult situations and politically unstable environments.  Pray a covering over the lives, as well as hearts and minds as they do spiritual battle on the front lines where physical harm is possible. Pray God would, literally if need be, guide their steps and illuminate their paths. May the be placed with the right people, in the right places, at the right time, that God would accomplish His divine purpose as they risk everything for the cause of Christ.

One life changed,
When one life steps out.
As Christ did for us.

- PNC

Dave Ramsey took an interesting phone call on the show earlier today; a man who was starting a ministry, had a newborn baby and expressed his concern for finding and living a "balanced" life, in terms of being able to do his work, be there for his kid and be a good husband.

To this dilemma, Dave gave the man kudos, for indeed his heart and desire is it the right place. Downright noble, in fact. Then I was taken aback, for just a moment.

"A balanced life is a myth!"

Then Dave continued to explain. Your life isn't balanced when a baby is born. Forget work. Your focus is on the birth of your kid. For the 10 hours at the hospital, for the first 10 days you are home getting adjusted. Nothing is balanced. So too, will the time come to work. Not every day will be a "home at 5:30" and ready for family dinner. Work has it's demands and there will be times to push in, stay late and hustle and grind. Don't miss the major events, but part of balance means everyone and everything is subject to just as much of a give as they do take.

We all applaud the movie where the parent quits the job in favor of the family....and yeah, there are those moments and times when that is a real decision that needs to happen. For most of us, though, this is where reality meets understanding and grace. Meetings go long. Clients pay the bills. And there's only one senior prom.

We can drive ourselves crazy getting caught up trying to a live in balance, when in reality, we need to live in focus for the moment. And if it's different tomorrow or next week, then be ready to shift and adjust accordingly.

So pray, this #deaconThursday, not only for the pastors who obviously struggle with this issue, but also for the extended leadership and staff, who are often helping in ministry in addition to their own responsibilities at home as well as in the secular workforce. Pray that God would strengthen them in the juggling of the relationships and inter-workings of their daily duties. Pray that God would help them to maintain proper perspective; that the world is closing in when certain task or routines get skipped, missed or overlooked because of the priority of the moment... whatever it happens it be at the time. Pray that there would be a new level of understanding and grace that occurs in their lives and relationships, both at home as well as in the market and ministry. May God give them favor as they go about their day, each moment as it comes.

For wherever we are
Let us be there.
To be used by God
For His glory and purpose.

- PNC

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

I'm been thinking lately about how many circumstances continue to come to our awareness and in this information-rich environment, we make statements and judgements thinking we know what's going on. And yet, we don't. The whole "feeling" over actual knowing, is creating problems everywhere.

We place a high priority on experience, as we should, for it helps us navigate the next unknown. And that's what lies ahead. The unknown.

There's always so much to do with the organization of the church. And it's not just the tangible to-do list. It's people. It's relationships. There's a time-factor involved. And a process that people go through, that, consistent with the theme over the past few days, is beyond our control.

And yet, as every individual is different, so too are the stories that accompany them. So while experience is the guide, the risk to miss both the obvious and the imperative details is great whenever a rush to judgement or conclusion is made when based on limited information and half-stories.

It feels like we're back to praying for wisdom and discernment. Which isn't a bad thing. We certainly need it. Daily. But we're witnessing the serious repercussions letting emotion determine our decisions rather than reasoning. And that's not to say we should never do something based solely on "gut feeling." If any reasoning should be unexplained, we should at least have an awareness and peace that accompanies a prompting of the Holy Spirit.

Life.What a balancing act it is... occasionally on the high-wire.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would pastors in the dealings with people and circumstances of every kind of situation and circumstance. Not only would God grant them great wisdom and discernment, but pray also for an ever-increasing awareness of when to lead with the head or when to rule with their heart. May this "rush-to-jugdgment" mentality that seems to dominate the current news cycle not cause havoc in the church community. Pray the Holy Spirit would continue to direct the leadership of the church; for all the value of experience, may it not take place of seeking the face of God.

For we have been made for this life
Empowered for this life
Equipped for this life.
May we live it with diligence.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I got to thinking, as we've been talking about control or rather, our lack of it when it comes to circumstances that reach beyond our understanding and comprehension, that there is a great temptation to hang on to things longer than we should.

We hang on to control, even we know we don't have it (or are losing it)
We hang on to the frustration of a matter.
We hang on to the problem, even as the solution is being implemented.
We take things back with us, when we leave the altar that we just approached with the intent of leaving something there.

I'm smiling, because we all remember the scene with Charlie Brown and Lucy playing football. We often think of God holding the football, and when we go to kick, as Charlie did, Lucy withdrawals the ball....and we fall flat. But perhaps, the opposite is true. We hold control and God says, if you'll let me see what I can do, where I can send it (whether to kick it out of our life or to move us father than we could on our own) and as He comes in, we pull away. Don't take it yet, don't touch it yet, don't kick it... I want to hang on to the matter a bit longer.

While it makes for a great cartoon scene, it also makes for a frustrating reality.

I think this is one of the toughest things for leaders. To know what to hold close, what to hold loosely, what matters enough to justify their time, energy and input and what matters little enough, to allow someone else the opportunity to engage, minister and manage.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would continue to help pastors with their realities and the frustrations that lie therein. Pray for wisdom, to know when to engage and how to respond. Pray they would not attempt to be so in control, that it gives way to pride and ego and becomes a hindrance to the work and Word that you desire to accomplish in both their lives and ministries. Pray that God would give them strength, as they perhaps continue to struggle with some long, drawn-out problems and battles that are long-overdue for solution and resolve.

May God work the miraculous,
As we let go and allow Him
To will and to way His purpose.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Everyone knows that one can't possibly fix every problem, address every issue or diffuse every stressful situation. But somehow that doesn't keep us from trying. Often through over-analysis and countless possible run-through scenarios.

Talk about killing one's effectiveness, because at some point and degree, this becomes a waste of time and energy. For surely, not everything is within your control, especially that which relies on the efforts and input of others. But little is a more painful reminder of the priority of seeking God first and trusting in Him than being told that it's entirely possible that perhaps you aren't doing so. Or having to admit that you aren't doing it nearly enough.

How many times have you been on the receiving end of that conversation? Probably more times than you care to count.
So let me be frank with how many times I've been on the receiving end. More times than I care to admit. Plus one more after service today.

Are we relying upon God for all that we have need off? Probably.
Are we relying upon the power of the Holy Spirit to be our "helper"? Probably not enough.

And here's the critical point of emphasis regarding ministry. It is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing process; an ongoing conversation; a life-long spiritual journey of learning and experiencing the grace and glory of God. The momentous events are life-changing. The mundane of daily life are sustaining building blocks and stepping stones that help us emerge as over-comers when the momentous happens.

Continue to pray, this #effectiveSunday that the body of Christ would not be so burdened with the test, trials and struggles of life that we neglect our faith, nor our time with God. Pray that we would draw ever closer to the presence of God and call upon the name of the Lord in our time of need. May the power of the Holy Spirit be ever-so present in our lives, that we are quickened, strengthened and encouraged to press in and press on at the times it would seem least likely for one to do so. Pray God would help us to persevere; that we would neither fail or falter, but see the race to the end, that He would be glorified, regardless of our status, lifestyle or accomplishments.

That the Gospel would go forth
As we go with God.
Day by day
Even in moments of trouble.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

So, here's your staggering thought to consider. In regards to pornography of all things.

There's rampant and then there's the unbelievable. And as a part of the conversation that we had this morning at men's breakfast, this was shocking.

There is enough pornography downloaded in one day, that a man could sit in front of a screen 24/7 for the next 115 years!!

We all have the same amount of time... to get things done, to build relationships, to invest in people, to minister, to relax. And yet for the all the destructive content that exists, there is enough in just this single category to exhaust ones life from the cradle to the grave. Way too many distractions consume our thoughts, ears and eyes. Some of it is simply wasted. Others is served to us with an agenda to destroy us from within.

There's an interesting relationship between light and darkness.

What thrives in darkness dies in the light.
What thrives in light will suffer if darkness begins to impose.

And for all the connectedness that we gain through technology, we sure have found incredible ways to occupy our attention in solitude. Facebook. Pandora. Pinterest. Craigslist. Mahjong. Any of this sound familiar?

Are we engaged in the community that matters? I don't know. Probably not. Definitely not as much as we should. But it's just a hunch. As I sit on a laptop, where my other open internet browser has 38 tabs in use. And a phone next to me on the couch where I am seated. With a Bluetooth in my ear. Streaming Phil Keaggy at the moment. See how easy it is?

Pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us better connect with God and people. And in particular, as I was reminded once again that the enemy has always been out to destroy the child, pray that God would help as adults, to do as Paul instructed, and put away childish things. And pray for those individuals and families whose lives have been affected and ruined by addictions, and specifically, pornography. Whatever the work that is involved in the process of recovery and healing, pray that the church would be at the forefront of helping people walk out of darkness into the light, which is the very essence of the Gospel.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I'm not sure what got me thinking about this, but we pray a great deal about wisdom and discernment for those who are in daily, working relationship with the pastoral and leadership team of the church. And one step removed, are the "almost".

This is another one of those, I hope that really doesn't happen, I wouldn't want to be a part of a church where that happens or whatever. But sadly, as much as we don't want to think about it, it does happen. Why? Because churches, like politics, deals with misinformation all the time.

People want to be in the know and sadly, they are often, all too eager to share it. With somebody. With anybody. And in the hands of the undiscerning, it may not matter that they don't have the whole story. They may not understand the background behind the matter. They have highlights without context. Ideals without foundations.

It's a difficult place to be, for sure. We want to believe that within the church, they are well-intentioned, perhaps not knowing the harm or damage that they are causing. Yet, depending on a whole host of factors, trouble is bound to happen... sooner or later.

So, let's pray this #deaconThursday, that God would help the leadership of the church navigating circumstance where misinformation is roaming. Pray that there would be an understanding regarding the operations and processes that take place within the church and that there would be a culture that responds the work of the leadership. May God grant wisdom in dealing with people who are in fact, purposefully creating problems. Pray the church would be a place of grace, but a place of intention; where communication matters and truth comes first.

May grace and love abound,
Even as they cover the truth as it is delivered
For the glory of God
And the church of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

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

I struggled with today's post, not really having anything in mind, or rather, coming to mind... even as the day progressed. Then I happened to catch Dave Ramsey's show, apparently in the middle of a conversation with someone who had called in with a situation about a will and the handling of an estate.

Then Dave did what he always does... shares from personal experience. He went on to share how his family and his leadership team at Ramsey Solutions, meets annual to discuss the unthinkable event. Dave chuckled as he said, "I hate this meeting, because it's all about me dying!" But that's what it is. Annually. The family and leadership discuss what happens in the event Dave dies this year.

And I thought, wow... how many organizations have this established. How many churches. I won't even ask how many homes. Then to advance further... not only setting up the level of detail that Dave has, but to annually re-evaluate and revisit what's transpired, what's changed, who is involved. Relationships changed. People's lives, needs and own careers and aspirations change.

The associate pastor who once said they'd be open to taking over the senior pastor position in such an event, when the contingency plan was set-up 5 years ago, may not feel or desire that role today. Yet, because it wasn't reviewed regularly, or annually, now there's a problem. Or a hundred other countless scenario's. 

What the state of the contingency plans, it's a daunting, necessary and sometimes unpleasant conversation. Both to start and to review.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for the pastors and team that serve alongside the senior pastor of our churches. Pray that God would help those churches who don't have such plans in place, to begin making those preparations, so they will not be caught off guard. Pray that God would direct the conversations, to put the right people and decisions into the process. May they be wise stewards of their time and resources as plans are established. Pray also, for those churches how are prepared. May God continue to give them wisdom as circumstances change and matters are revised.

May the church be prepared for an untimely passing
As they are for the unknown coming of Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So, I'm thinking about the power of unheard messages. And by that, I mean, that by the time the message actually clicks and you respond, something happens shortly thereafter, that reminds you just how much you should have listened sooner.

I don't know about "all too often", but many times, we know what we need to do or what we need to care of and we put it off. We delay it, prolong it and for whatever reason, don't make it the priority that it should be, let alone, that we know it needs to be. Perhaps we do the wrong thing, or say the wrong the thing. And yet, shortly after we've made the course correction or confession, as it may be, something happens that shows us just how close to the edge we came.

It's an interesting dynamic, one I dare say, I've witness occur at least twice already this year.

Is it procrastination? Is it stubbornness? It is simply a lack of awareness? Whatever it is, I know that many have battled with the work and the word that God has attempted to accomplish and speak into our lives, whether you stand in the pulpit, sit in the pew or stroll by on the pavement.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that God would help us hear better, sooner to His voice and the prompting of the Holy Spirit. May pastors know what and when to do. Pray that the temptation to delay would be quickly dismissed. Pray for an increased awareness to the hand of God at work. May the "close-call" reminders not be necessary, because the messages where heard immediately and responded to sooner.

Ears to hear
Eyes to see
Hands that do
Feet that go
The body of Christ,
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I trust you've had a great day. Mine was put into perspective during today's service... on the story of Ananias & Saphira.

It's an interesting, one as the pastor who preached it noted, highlights that there are stories of God's holiness highlighted in the New Testament that is filled with grace, just as there are moments of grace in the Old Testament that is full of God holiness.  

In addition though, it's a story of unnecessary deception. An interesting topic to walk away from, feeling a slight sense of conviction. So, as it pertains to the project, a point of confession. I didn't write Friday's post. Nor Saturday's for that matter. I could post date it and, sadly, have done so in the past. My justified reasoning for missing Friday could include a 14+ hour workday, but nobody cares. And by the time I meant to write yesterday's... well, regardless.

Here it is Sunday, and just how effective are we in ministry?

Well, of the numerous, profound statements that I took down in my notes, this one stands out, as a perspective to the question of the church's effectiveness.

The church should not be filled with people who are happy about calling out one's wrong-doings.

Pastor explained, that when Peter talked with Saphira, he was giving her an opportunity to come clean about the matter. And when she didn't, Peter doesn't give his reply as a statement of power and condemnation... "the men who carried out your husband stand at the door to carry you out!" No. Peter's words are full of sadness and sorrow. "I hate to be the bearer of bad news... "This conversation was totally avoidable, as was the very nature of the circumstance for that matter." But this is your fate...

It makes you wonder, just how accurate and staggering, the statistic is, of people who have been more turned off towards God because of the people who occupy the church, rather than God and His word. Case in point? How often we forget that a simple act of kindness can display God's great power. All too often, we get caught on waiting for God to do the miraculous while someone is waiting for help with the electric bill. But because we don't help their need, then words and expectations are of little value to those we are trying to reach.

As a result, the rate of effectiveness diminishes. Because we don't properly balance the call for holiness with the opportunity for grace. Because we hold out for great displays of God's power and miss the opportunity for a simply act of kindness. For none of us know what will be the proof, that God is real and that He cares.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, a very simple prayer. Pray that we would be people of truth, people of kindness and people of holiness. May we be happy to be extenders of grace, rather than condemning judges.

For the glory of God alone.
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

ps: I finally settled on a title, after writing this post and now I have DC Talk's song by the same title, stuck in my head.

There's nothing like the onslaught of news reports to remind you of the power of great leadership while simultaneously reminding you of the stupid decisions made by  leaders at every level. There are better ways, of course. But that's not my focus, except to say once again, there is a great dichotomy that occurs within leadership and the people with which they surround themselves.

I'll be the first to admit I don't deserve grace, but I have no shame in stating that I wouldn't plead for it either. We've all done stupid. Or as Dave Ramsey often calls it, "getting a Ph.D in d-u-m-b".

People. Can't live with them... can't.... well, you fill in the blank. Full of surprises, we are. Sometimes the people upon whom we place high expectations and they somehow, some way, some day, severely miss the mark. And others, upon whom there is little expectation, in just as an impressive manner, find themselves greatly exceeding it.

And regardless of your position in relationship to the leadership, who doesn't benefit by being the type of person that leadership can count on in their time of need and their day of trouble. Nobody ever does everything perfect. And while political correctness goes off the deep-end on any given day, we also have to be true to ourselves. But more importantly, especially within Christiandom, we need to be the people who God has created us to be, as well as who He has called us to be... and do.

Pray this #deaconThursday, that God would give wisdom to the pastoral and leadership team of the church. Pray that their would be a covering of grace and forgiveness for the stupidity and repentance and correction for the sin. Pray that God would give discernment in handling the troubling circumstances in this polically-charged cultural. May the leadership be ever-increasingly aware, not only of the times in which we live, but more importantly of the direction and prompting of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray that ministry would not be hindered by humanities' flaws, but enhanced by heaven's fortitude.

Surrounded by His presence
Even when ours leaves a lot to be desired.
For the glory of God.

- 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

Once again, I still am not sharing details regarding my friends leave of absence in Monday's post, but I got to thinking about the leadership team of his church and the pastors who handle this month while he is gone. I read my friends' post and how they talked about those who knew the details of the battle they were facing. In his statement, and this has been a recurring theme I've heard elsewhere in recent weeks, that there is power in exposure. That which thrives in the dark will die and that which thrives in the light will grow.

There is, therefore, an incredible transformation that takes place through the process of a life being exposed. Can it be troubling? Absolutely. But handled correctly, it is an amazing opportunity for grace, healing and restoration. The damaged and broken can be repaired and mended.

But just as many didn't know "all" the details of the battle they are in, those in the closest circle of friends and team did. And for that reason, I believe their church is in good hands during this time. Meanwhile, some churches may not be in that place. Pastors and their families could be engaged in battles, struggles and downright war and yet many fears, attitudes, egos and more, stand in the way of open communication and council that would bring help, hope and healing, rather than trying to get through it on their own.

One route is a troubled, losing direction.
The other, an incredible destiny of grace, love and healing.

Let's pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, the pastors and leadership of our churches would be a place of open communication and dialogue. Pray for a balance in the culture of community, that it wouldn't be a matter of drama and downright open transparency, per see, but there would be an atmosphere of trust that would allow for the truth to be spoken. May grace cover every conversation that begins with "this is my battle...". Pray that understanding would permeate every conversation that involves the words "i need help...". Pray that church leadership would be ready to give grace and help, not only among themselves, but also to their congregations, as they build up and lead the body of Christ.

For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC

I read with heavy heart earlier today, the social media post from a friend who is a senior pastor. And while I'm waiting for permission to use some of the excerpts from his post (and it is public via his blog as well as the announcement made in his church), I simply shared his post on my personal page with the sentiment that the often unknown and untold stores of the struggles pastors face is both the evidence and explanation of what keeps me working on this project.

I simply can't fully fathom the battle my friends are facing in their family. The responsibility of ministry simply adds a whole other layer of complication to the equation, as all of us have experienced the struggle of balancing time, relationships and commitments.

I know I'm not giving details and I would like to give some, but the bottom is line is that there are seasons. And we have to recognize when a different strategy is needed to win. The end result, is that my friend is taking a month-long, leave of absence from the pulpit, to both lead and fight for the health and wellness of his family.

So while there are many other pastors in similar situations, on this #seniorPastorMonday, would you pray specifically for my friends? Pray that God would give them strength to endure and persevere. Pray for the miraculous healing and breakthrough that needs to occur in this battle they wage. May the spiritual attack which has come against them subside and may the power of the blood of Christ wash over them. Pray that God would grant them wisdom and discernment, in both the day to day decisions of life as well as the major decisions that will help guide and direct the days to come. Pray that they would emerge victorious from this battle; refreshed and renewed to continue in the ministry and calling God has placed on them to return to the church and community they serve.

For the battle is already won
As God hands them the victory
For His glory.

- PNC