I mentioned the other day some thoughts and perspectives on corruption and people in power. And around the same time, perhaps in a different conversation if I recall, the question was posed, if you could narrow the 10 commandments down to one, what would it be?

Yes, I know... they've already been reduced to two. Love God and love people. And that's hard enough some times, both with God and people! But what's the one?

And the answer might surprise you. Because if you pick wisely, you just might resolve, or eliminate the need for the rest. As in you find yourself in a good position with both God and man.

Envy.

Thou shalt not envy.

Well, if you are going to go there, why not make it jealousy? Because jealousy only addresses my frustration that you have something I don't. Envy addresses the fact that because I don't have it, neither should you. And that is a deeper seeded issue.

Think about it... if it's possessions, one could be prone to theft. If it's a relationship, then adultery. If it's one's entire life, then murder. If one lacks contentment regarding the state of another, how can they respect them? Such discontentment then causes a spiritual rift in between them and God and thus, they don't love and obey Him as they should. And the floodgate is open for all kinds of wrong thoughts, attitudes and behaviors. All because the position and status of our neighbor distracts and disrupts the healthy and realistic perspective we should have regarding our own, who we are and who God created us to be.

Enter so many people taking a hiatus from social media and disengaging to varying degrees or even altogether.

Envy kills community.

It certainly causes the beginning of the end with much decay and dissolution along the way. This is not how God made us to be, nor intended us to regard each other, nor Himself, for that matter.

And we do. So often. So easily. So recklessly.

God, help us, this #communitySaturday! Pray that envy would find no room in hearts and minds, that we would look upon your blessings and your creation with such discontent that nobody should enjoy this life. Pray our focus would truly be upon knowing Your love and grace and sharing and extending it to those around us; even those with whom we disagree and digress of life, conversation and events of all kinds. May our attitudes and actions reflect Christ in all we do, whether in the comfort of our home or the sometimes uncomfortable engagement of community.

That our lives would glorify God
As we interact with His creation.
For our lives are not our own.
Neither is this world our home.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

"Everyone has a story about God; whether they believe in Him or not." - Michael Savage, author, radio host

What a great statement as we enter this Easter weekend.

What's equally true is that God has a story for each one of us. Furthermore, whether we believe in Him or not, He believes in us. He wants the best for us, our lives, our families, friends and communities. The world is His and all that is in it! Why would He wish it any intentional wrong?

The God who sent His Son that we may be free from sin, also gave us freedom knowing full well we might fully immerse ourselves in it.

He was willing to risk the life of His Son to restore humanity to right relationship with Him with the same odds that we might risk eternity to reject such an opportunity.

It's another reminder that life is real and both the decisions and consequences therin do have and make an eternal impact.

But what an opportunity the Easter period is, to engage and hear one's story about God... whatever it may look like, whatever joy or sorrow it entails. Whatever the outcome that has brought one to today leaves an open door for one step closer to God to be made in that story. Sadly, many might take one step further away, but again, we're dealing with eternal risk and reward.

Redemption awaits for those who call on the name of the Lord. The untold stories of both those who call and those who don't are surely epic on many levels and a plethora of outcomes.

Yet one story is constant for all of humanity, for all of eternity. That of God's love and Christ's purpose of the Cross and Resurrection.

Pray, this good #missionsFriday for the miraculous in the lives of those whose stories have to relay an eternal reward. May the tragedy and suffering that has endured be made whole through the love of Jesus Christ, rather than prolonged by one's rejection of Him. Pray for strength for the trials and battles that are being endured. May Christ indeed be their rescue and Savior, not just from the problems of this life, but problems of the soul that stem from the sin and evil that resides within us. Pray that all things would be made new as a fresh surrender to the work of the Cross of Christ is made.

That today would be a good Friday,
Not only because of what Christ accomplished at Calvary,
But because of how our lives interact with that sovereign moment.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard some good conversation recently on people in positions of power and the opportunity for corruption... well, not so much opportunity as it was, it's down right existence.

It doesn't really matter what environment it grows in; its' affects are an overwhelming hindrance to life, ultimately to those in the midst of it, but sooner or later it extends to those who will receive it's unintended consequences. That creates huge problems.

Trust becomes an issue.
Correction becomes complicated.
Yet as awareness spreads,
Outrage grows deep and wide.

And depending on the circumstances surrounding it and in particular, the people and power that may reside at corruption's core, hopelessness of any positive change may be inevitable.

Such an existence is not good for a country, nor is it good for a local community. It destroys a single business with as much a devastating end as it does a single church.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray for the leadership of today's church. May the hold their positions of power and influence with wisdom and humility. Pray they would lead their church with the integrity that we would expect them to lead their home. Pray their ability to walk and live according to God's Word in public would indeed stem from time and fellowship with Him at home. And pray that God would do the miraculous, in churches, communities and countries that are in the midst of devastating corruption practices. May there be a shift of direction and a day of reckoning would come quickly; that they would witness a turn-around in their every day life as well as for eternity.

For God has called us to a higher standard,
For His glory and by His strength.
Not overcome by the darkness,
But a light that scatters the darkness.

- PNC

Termites cause more damage in America than the big, dramatic events do. - Steven Mansfield

Yes, I know what you're thinking. Seriously? A third run regarding Ramsey and Mansfield? But consider the power of that thought as it applies to life, rather than housing.

The big, dramatic events in our lives do possess great power and impact, sometimes more than they should because of the power we give them. Other times, because they truly are live-changing events.

But as we pray over youth pastors in light of today's youth, how much more should we worried about the termites.

The little things have a way of sneaking in and getting under our skin and into our spirits and if not dealt with properly and early, we find ourselves dealing with things in adulthood that could have been resolved in childhood.

Except at the point, rather than being resolved on the home-front, we find ourselves having to battle them while we navigate a career or a relationship or a ministry. It's not that the problem can't be taken care of that stage in the game... it's just a more serious stage. A larger infestation means more time, energy and money invested in its' removal. It's worth doing, yes. But the value is in the prevention and early detection.

It's for the health of our lives, our kids and our ministries.

Let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help us identify the termites in our own lives, in the lives of our youth and in our ministries. Pray they would not move beyond the point of infestation that would cause distraction, derailment and destruction. Pray for wisdom, to know how to handle problems and issues as they arise, to deal with them in a spirit of love and truth and to call out that which does not belong. May there be a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, not only in the lives of youth pastors for their benefit, but also to instill that discipline in the lives of the youth they minister to; so that when they reach adulthood, the dramatic events of life will be the things that are beyond their control, rather than those things which are not only within their control, but preventable as well.

For God's work in our lives,
Is a refining fire.
Uncomfortable as though it is,
Better when less is required.
More of His Spirit...
Less of the termites.

- PNC

I had opportunity to hear more of the conversation that Dave Ramsey had with Steve Mansfield that I referenced the other day. While talking about the flow of life and what it is that we do that brings us fulfillment, they made the point that "when the work doesn't flow as it used to, the poetry is lost"... then you might be in trouble.

Dave perhaps gave the best analogy.

A man, who is incredibly successful in all that he does, having gone bankrupt in his early years of marriage, now lives like most only dream. Yet, if you listen to show, you'll hear just how often he encourages (and teaches) what people need to do now, so that they too can live their dream. It doesn't have to look like his, but finances stand in the way of many not ever being able to do so.

So, he makes the point, that the day he stops celebrating people becoming debt-free and reaching millionaire status, is probably the time he should give up his day job. Why?

Because what he does right now, is an effort to help other people win and witness them winning! Which after 25 years on the radio, the stories are almost too numerous to count. I think they announced that last year, for those who had contacted them and that the had tracked, $59 million dollars in debt had been eliminated from those working his financial advice. If he loses the passion and excitement of helping people achieve such freedom, what's the point in continuing to help in that manner? He should do something else.

Lost poetry.

A very similar scenario happens in ministry. Along the path to burnout. Life happens and perhaps things don't go as plan or tragedy strikes or thoughts and attitudes that don't belong enter into your perspective and the excitement with which you approach your day begins to wane and you have to ask yourself if you are losing it? The fluidity. The rhythm. The progression. The poetry.

It be lost towards one's perspective towards other pastors and people in ministry, that they serve with daily or watch from afar. It can be those within the congregation and community that they try to figure out why and how things worked out for another and not for them.

It's not like we all haven't been there!

To not recognize the loss of poetry in your position, yet remain in that position will soon become a dangerous path.

So, let's pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that pastors would not lose the poetry of their life and ministry. May nothing stand in the way that we detour their desire to help and to minister to their church and community. Pray a spirit of envy and jealousy would be for from them. Pray for a continual ability to rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn; to share in both the moments of celebration as well as compassion. May God renew their strength as they serve. Faithfully.

For the glory of God.
And the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

33 years in... well, 33 minutes.

That was the sentiment pastor shared yesterday in the opening statements of his message; to convey 33 years of experience condensed in a morning message. Or 33 minutes for the sake of phraseology.

He was talking about how we are an imperfect people and yet, in we are made perfect in Christ as we grow in our revelation and knowledge of who He is. And that is a process that takes time. As another pastor friend of mine always says, whenever you read the Word, the Word reads you.

But, it really is true. The revelation of God is an evolving process. His infinite existence. Our finite minds. I don't need explain further. As life unfolds, our understanding expands. Pastor pointed how true this is, in the story of the woman caught in adultery. When Jesus asks for him who was without sin to cast the first stone, we are told that one by one, her accusers left. Starting with the oldest among them.

Why? Perspective that leads to wisdom. And the words of Christ turning the mirror upon their very souls. The recognizable problem of their own condition was more apparent to those who had been around longer; the younger, naturally, took a little longer.

I say all of that to say, I continue to be amazed at the direction and process of pastors in navigating the steps of what to preach and when and the changes that occur along the way. Not knowing who might be in church, nor what they are going through... so much goes unknown.

There's an art to public speaking. And for the most part, the speaker knows the topic and the audience has an expectation of the topic. Preaching on the other hand, really is a divine ordeal. The unseen hand of God arranging circumstances and events in peoples lives, in such a way as to be open to hear the Word of God, or closed and yet changed by the Holy Spirit as the Word is delivered. Conviction. Grace. Love. Hope. Restoration. The range of experiences, perspectives and understandings that people leave with, from the same sermon is utterly incredible.

It'd be easy for a pastor to get caught up in sharing whatever they feel like on any given Sunday, as much as it would be for me to write these posts. But I think we could all agree, in these last days, we truly need pastors to continually be seeking the face of God as they prepare for every message and devotional.  They may not fit their 33 years of experience in the time allotted for the sermon or service, but they can fill those "33 minutes" with the revelation of God through His Word.

Pray, this #seniorPastorSunday, that such would be the case in every service and opportunity. May they continually seek the face of God and share that which He has imparted and revealed to them through prayer and study. Pray an awareness in their lives, for their church and community; that they would know what to present and when as they trust the hand of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in their ministry and congregation.

That we not trust our own intuition
But solely on the sovereignty of God
And the prompting of the Holy Spirit,
For it is not our experience that matters,
But God's purposes being carried out
In those whose lives are wholly His.

- PNC

We've talked and discussed many times on effectiveness and efficiency and the balance of doing well and "getting it right" and planning, all in an effort to do well from the start. But life and reality don't always work that way.

While we could produce quite a list of things that we've had to revisit and redo as we reflect on previous days and past events, perhaps one activity should consistently remind you that some things always need to be revisited a second time, no matter how well you did on the first attempt.

Painting.

Though the first coat came out pretty good, there were a number of spots that needed touch-up. And the area that got its' first coat yesterday... half looks really good, the other half, when viewed at the right angle... yeah, we'll be doing that section a second time.

Painting is also the one activity where efficiency is somewhat relative. Largely, because the prep work that is involved and the clean-up afterwards. It's not one of those to-do list items that you can look at and say, "I've got a 15 minute window; I can get some painting done!"  No... it's not happening. You'd be better off reading this or one of the other 1,000 plus posts on this website and spending a few minutes in prayer.

The power of perspective also comes into consideration. Time allows you to see things from a different vantage point and a different understanding of how things work and look and the approach which might need to be taken the second time around. Even the third and fourth time, if necessary.

Having said of that, there is one act that was the most effective and most efficient thing to ever happen.

One Man took on the sins of the world.

On this #effectiveSunday of a #PalmSunday, pray that God would do the miraculous in the midst of His people who gather in His name. Pray for grace, forgiveness and restoration, for those who feel as though they've blown and ruined various events, lives and circumstances. May the healing power of the Christ do a great and mighty work in their hearts and minds and may the Holy Spirit go with them as they move forward from this day. May we remember with wonder, awe and humility the effect that Christ had upon this world when He came in to alignment with God's plan for His life.

As we reflect on the passion of Jesus' life,
May we live with passion for Jesus' life.
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel
His Kingdom to reign, now and forevermore.

- PNC

Well, this is going to drive me nuts. I heard an interview with Steve Mansfield yesterday, and I can't remember who the host was and thus, can't find what I wanted to reference. Alas... almost, like having writer's block.

Mansfield is the author of many books, among them, the book, Ten Signs of a Leadership Crash.

I can't wait to the book, where he outlines the signs of what to look for, when leadership might be in trouble. And if you are wondering how this relates to community; well, that's why I was trying to recall the interview. For in it, Mansfield talks about how many times the signs that trouble is on the horizon are large and noticeable, but the book talks about what may not be so noticeable; or at least circumstances and behaviors and other indicators that we may not link with foreseeable problem.

In case you're wonder, I'm pretty sure he was on Dave Ramsey's show, as I recall them discussing the need for a "band of brothers", which happens to be another Mansfield titled-book. In the conversation, Ramsey talks about how community creates a closeness in our relationships; that the power of preventing a crash lies in being able to call the person out, when they say everything is fine, but you can tell something is amiss.

If I tell you I'm fine and we hardly hang out, how would you know to question otherwise?
Conversely, if we talk daily or hang out with an considerable amount of frequency, you'll know pretty quick when it's time for someone to give up the gig and acknowledge the truth of their reality.

When I ask what's wrong, it means I'm expecting to hear a problem and want to help. If I wasn't interested in either, I wouldn't bother to ask or prod you to answer. That comes through community. It comes through caring. It also prompts us to be real and live real.

Life wasn't meant to be lived in a bubble. Nor is it all colored bubbles, as we talked recently. We can endure, survive and come out stronger than ever. By the hand of God. With the help of friends. For an eternal purpose.

Let's pray this #communitySaturday that we would build and foster great community and strong relationships. May we invest in the lives of those around us, both strangers and friends and allow people to positively invest in us; that we would be challenged to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ and allow the hand of God to lead, guide and direct us in the plans and purposes that He has ordained that we should walk and live. Pray people of faith would lead by example, that the community of Christ through the local church would change the world, by impacting their community with the love of God.

For His glory
And the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

"It doesn't matter if you believe in God; He believes in you." - Jim Caviezel

An interesting perspective, as we pray for missions. People are so quick to dismiss God and we are concerned about the obstacles that stand in the way of people coming to Him. And while that conversation takes time, the truth and affirmation in changing someone's life begins with the words that we've discussed earlier this week.

God has a plan and a purpose for every single person.
There is nothing that can separate us from the love of God.
His grace and forgiveness is available to all who would accept it.

And as much as it needs to be shared with the unbeliever, even the believer has days when these truths are hard to stand up, rely in, and move forward with, through this life.

Even those in ministry.

Whatever your battle, whatever your struggle, whatever mountain stands in your way...

God believes in you; in who you are, in who He created you to be... one destined for eternity.

Pray this #missionsFriday, both for those in ministry needing this reaffirming truth and to those who need to hear this eternal truth. Pray God would strengthen those battling their way through ministry as well as those struggling to endure everyday life. Pray today would be a day of salvation and redemption.

That we would be people of purpose
And of destiny.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

While channel surfing the radio this morning during the morning hours today, I caught part of a message that I thought was pretty powerful. (Yes... I'm behind on you having the full day to pray. I'm working on it)

I don't know about you, but I've had many a time where I've been frustrated with my life, in some area or another, and it seems as the battles and frustrations are on repeat. Faith seems like a constant battle between what you know in your heart versus what you think with your mind.

The heart may mess with your emotions, but your mind will lie to you regarding the truth.

As a result, we battle in ways that God never intended. But His grace is sufficient. As such, the game-changer of the message is this:

"God never tires of coming to your defense."

Isn't that a great reminder?

For what believer and church leader hasn't reached certain levels of frustration with themselves regarding a particular aspect or arena of their live, that even they can't believe they are still struggling with and bringing before the cross of Christ.

It's like we get tired of confessing, as if it weren't accomplishing anything good at all!

Yet, I think God has the same conversation with us, that I described yesterday having with my daughter.

"I will win this conversation".

As much as we reinforce our love, care and support for those in our lives, so too, is Christ constant in His pursuit of our hearts. His grace unending, His love unfailing, His forgiveness unrelenting, His plan, never undone.

So, no matter how many times it takes, we continually present ourselves before the thrown of grace and acknowledge, we can not life this live according to God's divine plan, without the help of His divine hand.

Let's pray, this #deaconThursday, that God would be those in church leadership who are struggling with seemingly, repeating battles. May God give them strength to overcome and wisdom to know how to overcome. Pray they would not grow discouraged, nor their hearts grow faint; but that they would continually rely on God and the power of the Holy Spirit. May they pursue the victory that God has granted for them with the relentless passion that God demonstrates daily for all humanity.

For we overcome by the blood of the Lamb
And the word of our testimony.
May today be a day of declaration.
Of a victorious life.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Been thinking a lot of this whole narrative that has transpired in recent years... "we need to be careful about the messages that we are sending to our kids."

Indeed.

Yet, it seems all too often, we're more concerned about the messages as they relate to society and culture, politics and power, relationships and regulated behavior.

Meanwhile, we've lost the message that matters. The message that I spent considerable time sharing with my oldest daughter this past Saturday, and again just recently and I'm sure many more times, before it clicks.

You are God's.

If you don't think life exists beyond yourself, then you'll have a hard time caring about anything other than yourself.

But if you understand that you belong to God, that you were created in His image, and that He created with a destiny and a purpose; that you are fearfully and wonderfully made... how does that identity transform your life?

If you live your life with that understanding and carry the corresponding perspective that those who walk around in this life have that shared intentionally at the very core of their being as much as it lies at the core of yours, does that change who you are, how you life, what you do and how you relate with the rest of humanity?

Instead we push this "do whatever you want" approach to life only to wonder what went wrong when bad decisions are made and evil atrocities   and horrendous tragedies occur? Don't worry about anyone else has swung so far out of bounds, that we miss when the time comes to truly reach out and show concern for those around us. And by the time we figure out that someone is having problems, it's beyond our ability to help.

Sadly, such mentality even runs through Christianity. We get caught up in the craziness of life, that we miss the battles of other Christians as well as those in ministry until trouble has not only knocked at someone's door, but has taken up temporary residency on their couch!

On this #youthPastorWednesday, let's pray that we would communicate not our perspective or agenda, but the truth of God and His Word. Pray that we would speak the love and purpose of God; not only to our youth, but to our leaders that lead and direct them. May this generation know that their is life and meaning beyond our time on earth. Pray that today's youth would come to a place of knowing and understanding God's plan for their life, while those who lead them would live out the fulfillment of God's plan for theirs. Among all the messages being sent forth, may the message of the Gospel of Christ stand front and center; an eternal reckoning which cannot be avoided. Likewise, may the pastors who lead today's young people, continually point them to Christ and remind them as they remind themselves... that God is at work.

Always and forever.
For the glory of God
And the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

Pastor Chris Brooks' radio show, Equipped, is a great show, dealing with many subjects as they relate to culture and Christianity; which is pretty much everything, is it not?

While I haven't listened to the program in a few weeks, I caught bits and pieces of the one that aired today and part of the conversation revolved around the rural church and the effectiveness of their ministry.

One perspective that struck me as intriguing, is that community comes naturally to more rural areas. The naturally live as taking care of, looking out for and helping your neighbor. Conversely, suburban churches seemingly have to create a culture of community, despite living in neighborhoods that are barely spaced wide enough for a mower or two.

Brooks also pointed out a perspective that we don't often think about, but perhaps haven't shared outloud. Undoubtedly, however, many a pastor has probably shared the sentiment... that rural ministry feels as though one is receiving God's punishment.

It's easy to get caught up in the "power" of larger churches, with greater resources, greater opportunity for impact in the community, more doors for community partnerships and outreaches and the list goes on.

Do senior pastors struggle with rural ministry? Absolutely. Going. Engaging. Continuing. The battles may be different to some degree, quite similar in many others.

But on this #associatePastorTuesday, church leadership in rural areas can run a little thin. There's just as much ministry to do. The people are just as important to reach. The Gospel just as relevant and needed to the more spread-out lands as it is for the poplution-dense areas.  It's not punishment. It's possibility.

Let's pray, that God would give strength the church leadership of rural churches, both senior pastors and associates. Pray for grace as they minister and may God grant them creativity and opportunity as they reach out to their neighbors and communities. Pray that God would provide all that have need of, especially in those areas that are economically depressed and struggling with daily needs. May the hand of God be their provision and work the miraculous as they are faithful to the calling God has placed upon them.

May their impact be greater than they can imagine,
Even when it feels so seemingly insignificant.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yesterday's message on the story of blind Bartimaeus was a powerful... to say the least. But one element stood out; as it usually does. The message, by the way, came from a high-energy man who happens to be the Under Sheriff for the county! So, it was a pretty cool service, indeed.

There's much that is amazing about his story, but this was the capturing moment. Christ' own disciples tried to silence him when he called out to Jesus. But Bartimaeus called out louder.

As we've talked many times before, we see just how hard of a time people are having with the truth. Hearing it, receiving it, responding to it. And sharing it.

Bartimaeus calls out, yells out... screams out. Without conviction. Refusing to be silenced. Sure, he needed something from Jesus. But more importantly, something resonated in his spirit, that he knew He needed to respond. And of course, Christ responds to him.

Truth matters. If for no other reason, as once shared in an episode of the West Wing, it's the easiest thing to remember.

But more importantly, we're dealing in spiritual matters. Lives hang in the balance, here on Earth, certainly. Even more so, they hang in the balance for the sake of eternity as well.

My schedule in writing these posts has been thrown off late, and while I knew this was the topic for the day, writing this later in the day has it's advantage... for before doing so, a link appeared in my social media newsfeed.

A megachurch Baptist Pastor in Harlem, whose congregation has grown from 350 to over 10,000 in the past 14 years now speaks that it's "insanity" to believe Jesus is the only way.

What are we doing, if we are not speaking the truth?

With conviction. Beyond the voice of the critics and those who attempt to silence those who speak it... even those within the church. Our pastors need prayer. Our churches need help. And a lost and dying world is crying out... and we if we are not responding with the cries of truth; then why respond at all?

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that pastors would speak and declare truth. Pray that they would know, understand and preach the WHOLE counsel of God. Not the part that is loving and accepting, not the emotionally comforting, not the pleasant, politically correct; but the WHOLE TRUTH of God's Word. Pray for a spirit of wisdom and discernment in all circumstances and conversations. May the word be revealed anew and afresh as they study, pray and devote themselves to God.

For His Word is truth.
A lamp to our feet;
A light to our path.
That leads us to the cross of Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

There's so much that contributes to effectiveness. And sometimes there is very little efficiency involved in the process at all. You can try, but life and timing and other delays just enter in the picture and as such, are beyond your control. It's fine. You can be upset and frustrated, or you can roll with it.

For all the times over the past three years that we've discussed effectiveness, I had a pretty interesting experience last night. Let's just say, the one thing that you don't plan for; that you don't give proper consideration; that you don't think about it being an issue... and not just you, but those with you; those working on the project with you. You get to the end. Everything is complete. Done. Finished. Let's implement it and go.

And... not so much. The one thing became everything and yeah... that's not gonna work.

Plan B!

The next day is a little more comforting, as you hope your time and effort from the first round isn't wasted. Because in the moment, you can't help but feel the frustration and agony of failure. And stupidity for that matter, as you wonder how you missed something so simple! But again, it doesn't take much. It doesn't take much at all, to be exact.

And when things need to be exact, well, the slightest bit counts. There are times where effectiveness and work-ability really is a binary matter. Yes or no. On or off. It works or it doesn't. It fits or it doesn't.

So what's the prayer?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that such moments would not ruin the moment. Pray for the remembrance that life is a journey, a fun one for as often as it is frustrating. Pray for the help of the Holy Spirit to keep things in proper perspective, not only in light of eternity, but in light of wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Pray that the frustration, even when the moments duplicate and multiply, would not lead to feelings of failure, nor depression or defeat. Pray that those involved would rise again, try again and pursue again; to find answers and solutions to problems and situations they didn't even know existed until they encountered it first hand for themselves.

That as God works all things together for good,
May He work even the most frustrating moments
To bring about good out of our lives to reach those around us;
And the stories that we tell in the days to come.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I don't know how many of you listen to talk radio, but on occasion, I catch The Savage Nation, with nationally syndicated radio host, Michael Savage. It's an interesting show, because he covers a broad range of topics and perspectives, with a foundation of "borders, language and culture", but it's not all politics, either. Having said that, Michael DelGiorno, a host out of Nashville filled in for him on Friday. And if you can find it, it was a great three hours of radio.

It's a touchy subject, but he got to talking about identity. And in particular, the whole guilt movement that is going on about the color of peoples skin. Not racism, but white guilt. Like the restaurant that is charging a premium for their meals to those of Caucasian descent. Yes, you read that right... 12 or 18 bucks for dinner, becomes 30 bucks if you are white.

I only mention this, though, because of DelGiorno's response.

I'm a husband, a father, a Christian, a radio host... he rattled off a couple of others, but those were at the top of list. He follows up the point by saying, "I don't know how far down the list I get until I come to "I'm a republican and even farther to "I'm white".

And as we discuss community, isn't it amazing what and how we identify and how quickly we are to share such identity. In the status of our relationships, the state of our gender or sexuality, or position of influence or prominence in society, our associations, our employers, the loyalty to our favorite consumer brand of whatever it is that is of great importance to you... even our church affiliation, and heaven forbid, political bent!

In eternity, there will be but two.

Sinner: unrepentant
Sinner: saved

One identity. Two states of existence.

In the words of Gene Hackman's character in the movie Runaway Jury, "everything is colored bubbles."

On this #communitySaturday, pray that we not get hung up and caught up in the colored bubbles of life. Pray an awareness of our human condition before God. Pray that people would be prompted to act upon the knowledge of broken and fallen state. May God heal our people and our land, as we come before Him with a broken and contrite heart; in repentance of our sin and in need of the saving and redeeming grace of the cross of Christ.

Are you the Lord God Almighty?
Worthy is the Lamb,
For you are Holy.

- PNC

You know what really burns people out?

The list is long, I know. Your list is long. My list is long. We could poll the list from pastors and missionaries and church leaders and gain a whole other perspective. If we were really honest and dug deep, we could have an intense conversation.

My thoughts on the matter? Repetition.

Repetition is often a good thing. For learning. For discipline. For stability and familiarity. It has it's place and importance. So perhaps I should be more specific.

Repetition... of problems.

The same issues.
The same battles.
The same analysis of the issue
The same conversations.
The same proposed solutions.

When do we get to deal with something else?

As I'm thinking about what comes next, people are coming to mind that I know that have transitioned from pastoring a church to going to the mission field to stepping into other areas of leadership within their church's denomination or fellowship. I know there's a calling and moving in the plans that God has for them that is involved in this process, but again, if we dug deep enough, I can't imagine there not being a conversation where there's not some sort of element of being ready or desiring a change in ministry... and praying for and pursuing a change in ministry was preferable to perhaps exiting ministry altogether.

Life will always have problems and challenges.
Circumstances will always overlap.
And people will navigate and endure the same circumstances, many times over at some point.

It's frustrating to have it be in your life.
It's frustrating to be the one helping someone through it.

Yes, there's a joy. A calling. A purpose. But it's work. A lot of work.

And as much as people need to know that there is a plan and purpose whereby God is a work in their lives, so to, those that are helping need to know that God is doing a great work as they come along side and minister and continue point people back to Christ and closer to God... no matter the problem or the frequency of it.

On this #missionsFriday, pray that God would strength and encourage those missionaries that have reached the end or are nearing the end of wanting to deal with repetitious problems. Not that they ever end, but they realize they are getting worn thin. May God give them direction if a change of scenery or ministry needs to be made. Pray God would give them perspective and understanding and wisdom as to how to best approach their days and their time. Pray that God would help to enjoy the journey, the process and the learning. May the knowledge that God is at work, continually with never-ending love and an eternal purpose spur them in advancing the Gospel of Christ.

For God does not give us more than we can handle,
No matter how close we may feel we are to breaking.
Pressing on towards the prize of the high calling of God.
For His glory.

- PNC

As I reflected on Wednesday's post regarding today's youth, I got to thinking about how we are called to prayer for our leaders. Not only within the space of the church and ministry, but also in the arena of civics and government.

How quickly, do we seemingly forgot, that we are called to be people of prayer?

Not only to those that are nice to us, but our enemies as well.
Not only for our friends, but for the strangers.
Not for the leadership we appreciate, but for those who we, maybe don't appreciate so much.
Not for those with whom we are in complete agreement, but with those whom we vehemently disagree!
To say nothing of those who despise and revile us and speak all manner of evil against us...

One generation leads the next and the both of the power to influence each other. They have both of lesson to learn from each other and the both bring a perspective that the other side may not understand.

Within the church and the culture alike, the difficulties that exist as leaders try to lead exists for many reasons, but largely in part because we don't approach each other having spent sufficient time in prayer over them before hand.

On this #deaconThursday, by all means, pray for the leadership of the church. Indeed, pray that they would have wisdom and discernment; understanding and compassion. Pray that they would speak the truth as well as be seekers of the truth. But most important, pray that they would men and women of prayer, themselves. May they lead with conviction and love, having spent time in the presence of God and allowing Him to direct how they lead; their lives, their homes, their career, their ministry, their church and the world.

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

- PNC

I know this is a late in the day post. And to be honest, I just haven't had a peace regarding it... a sense of direction. From yesterday, throughout this morning...even at this moment. I think I know what's coming, but I don't. So hang on... how this ends is just as much your guess as mine.

All I know, is that today's events on a national level were interesting. Ideas and opinions, arguments on both sides of the issue regarding what is going on in our culture and society and how it is impacting our youth and our schools. And long before we were faced with such challenges, we've been changing how we educate our kids, what's allowed and not allowed in our schools to say nothing of our approach to parenting. Of course, all of this has come to a head, to the point that it affects how we respond to ministry, to the Judeo-Christian perspective and most importantly, to the Word of God.

I'm certainly not going to sit in judgement, nor high moral ground, nor clueless and apathetic sideline. I don't know, nor do I pretend to know all.

At best, I'm inadequate... on many fronts.

That said, certain things remain very clear.

The truth is difficult to hear.
We are all candidates to be better people.
Knowledge is only power to those wise in handling it; otherwise it is destructive.
History repeats itself... and often, to those who ignore it's lessons.
Evil exists and it does have an agenda. A spiritual one at its core and a master of disguise on its' surface.

I know you're older than me, but that shouldn't diminish the fact that there are a collection of years between me and today's youth, the years having reached "decade" status, so as I reflect, I can say this.

I don't know which of today's youth I would be. All the events of my educational years being the same, I don't know which kid I would be as I look at today's generation. But I know this...

I wouldn't be where I am without a stable, 2-parent, single-marriage home... without Christian parents who told me that God loved me and had a plan for my life. The same parents, who along with my brother, told me they would always love me. I wouldn't be here without pastors and youth pastors who spoke into my life. Nor do I know what this conversation looks like without the help of teachers who helped me deal with the bullies.

So, whatever your response to today's generation and societies struggle, I can tell you this.

On a very simple, #youthPastorWednesday, this world DOES need our prayer. For obvious reasons, and you can add your specifics, we need to pray for our youth pastors. We need to pray for our teachers and school administrators. We need to pray for our kids, all of them... from those who are the bully, to those who are the victim, from the most popular, to the most ignored, the best-dressed and least attractive, from the most likely to succeed to the goofiest runner... to the punk that whips oranges across the room aiming at a kid's head. Even you. I pray for you.
Pray kids would be friends on purpose, rather than jerks on purpose.

Speak life. Speak truth.
They are both found in the person of Jesus Christ.
He is found on the Word of God, aka. The Bible.
May God change lives, first and foremost.

- PNC

#thatwaseasy
#endtheguess
#pray4pastors

Do you remember a few years ago, the billboards that were put up along the highways, that were simple statements and they were signed "- God"? Here's the one I would advertise.

"Please say 'Yes'!" - God

Charles Stanley has a sermon series, that, while I don't know it my it's topical name, one of the sermons involves the discussion of the event that changes Peter's life. There's a book written recently on the subject of "immediate obedience" regarding the Christian faith. We could have a discussion on complete obedience.

But Pastor Stanley poses an interesting question about Peter's life.

What happens if Peter says 'no'?

This is the power of simple obedience.

The crowds keep pressing in on Jesus, until he runs out of land. He asks Peter if he can use his boat, to speak to the crowds. While on the boat, Christ commands him to put out his nets. Peter obeys with the caveat, that they've been out all night and caught nothing, but he gives his obedience as if to say, "if you say so." You could call a reluctant obedience.

It's not really a hesitant obedience, nor really a delayed obedience.

Of course, the miracle happens and the boats nearly sink from all the fish!!

Stanley's question? What happens, if when Christ asks Peter to use his boat, that Peter says, nope. I'm exhausted and look at this shore. There's lots of other boats. I'd love to help, but it's been a long night; so if you don't mind, please ask one of my neighbors.

How does one say No, to Jesus Christ? Clearly, many do... and did, even when He walked the Earth.

I've missed times of immediate obedience. And simple obedience. Reluctant. Yes, even delayed.

I probably don't want to think about what I've missed in my own life, as a result. Imagine how much more, I'd rather not consider what has been missed when pastors and church leadership miss those moments regarding ministry and the advancement of the Gospel?

So, now that I've bummed you out, let's join our hearts in prayer, that we would be as obedience to Christ as we pray and desire our pastors and church leaders to be. Pray that we would neither be reluctant or hesitant, but instead simple and immediate. Pray that the proneness to make excuses and rationalize circumstances would be avoided. May past experiences and mistakes not hold us back from stepping out and forward in what God would have for us to do today.

That our lives would be transformed by our obedience
Rather than left behind in darkness by our disobedience
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

We weren't in Sunday morning's service more than 5 minutes into praise and worship when I started thinking about isolation. I'm not exactly sure why... perhaps because it's seemingly been a "buzzword" of late, in society's conversation of recent tragic events.

But this one thing stood out, regarding this topic.

There's a big difference between God placing a person in a season of isolation and one isolating themselves. 

Do people have legitimate times where they feel a sense in their spirit, that it is there decision to "isolate" themselves to some degree, yes. There's fasting. There's an emphasis on the Word or other spiritual matters to connect with God.

However, I think all too often, it's easier when things go wrong or relationships get tense and tenuous, that we would rather check out and disengage. Maybe not entirely... we'll still scroll social media for hours on end. But making physical connections with people in real time while actively participating in spoke word conversation rather than the "texted" word (sorry, hard to use the phrase "written" word when my pen is in the other room) seemingly takes too much time, energy, focus and thought.

Conversely, though, I think there is a very distinct and intense purpose when God calls us out and sets us apart.

Often called "wilderness" experiences, we see these many times throughout Scripture. Times of preparation and development, of learning and understanding who God is and what He desires to accomplish through our lives. A time of trial and testing. A time of purifying and refining. A time of purging and rebuilding.

Not on our time.
Not on our terms.
This is God's deal.
Making an investment in His creation.

A scary time from our perspective. A frustrating one. A challenging one. A difficult one.

But from God's vantage point... a time of genius at work. A Master's plan. A Master's touch. A Divine design.

God is willing.
We, are often not ready.

And I'm not sure we can be. But we can be open. And with God, that's a great place to start.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that pastors would have and retain an openness to the hand of God and the moving of the Spirit in their heart and mind. Pray that they would not place themselves in times of isolation that would be detrimental and destructive to their purpose, but that the isolation they experience would be of God doing a great and mighty work, the likes of which they've yet to witness thus far. Pray God's sovereign plan would run deep and wide through their life and ministry. May their be a greater revelation and understanding of God and His plan and purpose as they go through this time. Pray they would be encouraged; that the Master is at work.

His thoughts towards us are good.
Of a hope and future.
And He is able to do,
Greater than we can ask or imagine.
For His glory alone.

- PNC