Think about things that are unhealthy. Once there is an awareness and an understanding of the situation, we should be about the business of correcting the matter. Although much stands in the way. Addictions and bad habits are hard to break. Of course, in the back of mind, as I write this, I'm think of a couple of physical issues in my own life that I've been putting off, in terms of getting corrected... so I guess this post on unhealthiness should come with a disclaimer.

What really stood out though, was in an interview yesterday on the radio, a concept was mentioned that was incredibly profound and true.

"An unhealthy relationship isn't a relationship."

I understand, we're never going to "get along" with everyone. Not everyone was meant to be your best friend. There are different levels of relationships and various levels of trust. But as understand with regards to our faith, relationships are a spiritual connection. There is meaning; there is purpose, this unity and fellowship. Thus, when it exists in an unhealthy state, when it is damaging and detrimental... can it really be considered a relationship when it is hazardous to your spiritual, emotion, mental and physcial health?

The baseline equation as we engage community? Speaking the truth in a spirit of love.

While the truth may be unpopular, that's doesn't mean it shouldn't be spoken. Despite people's reaction to not wanting to hear or deal with it.

So, pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us have, maintain and create healthy relationships. In troubled times when the truth is under attack, may God help us keep proper perspective and speak the truth in love. May we be effective in communicating the love of God to a world is desperate need of revival. As we've prayed previously, may the church exemplify the nature of healthy relationships with both God and man.

While sin has left holes in our heart
Christ has made us whole through the Cross.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I hope you aren't getting bored or tired by the sermon references of late. It's simply hard to ignore when something stands out that relates to ministry or seems to inspire a thought process. However, the one I heard yesterday was absolutely incredible and I'm hoping I catch the second it part of it when it plays today. Either that, or I'll have to find it on his site.

In discussing a prominent issue that our society not only faces, but truly feels as though it is being touted in the face of Christianity, Voddie Bauchum took a few moments to offer some insight as to how and why it seems that we pick and choose what gets followed from Scripture. What I wasn't prepared for was this resounding insight.

"The 11th commandment says 'Thou shalt be nice'. Then we ignore the first ten."

On this #missionsFriday, how important it remains, that we remember that when we share to the unsaved that "all of sinned", that we are apart of the all. As ministry progresses and our maturity in Christ develops, are we not in a dichotomy of sorts? We are both father away from our past and closer to Christ, but does that affect our ability to relate to the lost when the opposite was true in our lives. When we were alive in our sin and dead in Christ?

Yet, as society seems to live further from the existence of God and increasingly seeks to use the flaws of humanity against even those who are saved, it means the conversations will become ever more difficult and all the more necessary.

Nice can be faked.
Truth can't help but be revealed.
But if one can be made to be perceived as being mean, then perhaps they don't have the truth. And then one won't have to hear about their own flaws, nor their own sin.

Christianity is nothing without Christ.
God forgive us for trying to live it without His power and for His purpose.

Well, let us pray. On this #missionsFriday, that God would you quicken the Christian; both in ministry and the marketplace. Pray God would go before us and prepare people to hear and receive the truth, without personal offense. May the love of God transcend people's experience. Pray the details and discrepancies of the state of humanity be set aside; that all that would stand is truth that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. No matter which laws are followed or broken, pray God would help us communicate that we are all in need of Jesus Christ as Savior. The long-time Christian calls on the name of the Lord as much as they did when the truth of the Gospel was first shared with them... or at least they should. May many more, call on Christ, today and daily, forevermore.

Relationship with God.
Communion with Christ.
A firm foundation of faith.
Speaking the truth
For the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC

During the course of two separate radio programs yesterday, different pastors during discussion heaven, mentioned that there will be "work" in heaven.  We will have things to do, in service to Almighty God. Which if you think about it, makes sense, because even in the Garden, before sin entered the picture, Adam had stuff to do. Sin simply made the work live up to it's name.

In between the two, though, I happened upon a conservative Christian, political talk show and during her discussion on current events, mentioned the phrase of "serving at the pleasure of the President." I had to chuckle, as it reminded me of the episode in The West Wing, where all the senior staff respond to the President, sharing that sentiment in carrying out their duties.

And on this #deaconThursday, it took me back to the relationship between church operations and counsel and the Pastors as well as the entirety of ministry and how they approach the mission and calling that God has placed upon their community of believers.

It's easy to assert our rights when situations get frustrating. It's easy to want to make our voices heard and contribute our ideas in hopes of making things better (or at the very least, making our jobs easier) It's the day in which we live.

Yet, Scripture reminds us, that whatever we do, to do it as unto the Lord.
With all our heart, soul, mind and strength.
Our lives are not our own... we were bought with a price.
We are to rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. Give thanks in all things.

I'll be the first to admit; having and keeping such an attitude is difficult. It's a daily process. It's an intentional decision. It's a constant awareness. I can't help but think, that if we focused on serving at the pleasure of God that things would go much better for us as we respond and carry out our work with those around us and those in authority over us. And all the more, for those in ministry, as theirs is directly and prominently placed at the forefront of kingdom-work.

Thanks for joining me again, this #deaconThursday. Let's pray for those burnt-out from ministry, who have lost the joy of service. May God rekindle the passion and love for people and the body of Christ. Pray for healing and restoration over whatever situations and decisions have transpired that have taken them out spiritually and emotionally. Pray for strength for those who are getting tired and worn down. May a spirit of refreshing and rejuvenation fall upon them afresh. Pray for new energy and new excitement; may a  fresh anointing come over them as they recommit and rededicate their lives in service to the kingdom of God and the advancement of the Gospel on Earth.

God help us all
That regardless of the name on our paycheck
May we go about our day as working for you.
For indeed, you created us.
You have a plan and purpose for our lives.
We live to seek you and glorify you in all we do
Even when we miss the mark by miles.
Do what only You can do
As we are faithful in the work before us.

- PNC

As we enter Vacation Bible School, our church's theme is Under Construction. It's a perspective we usually remember, yet at the same time, just as quickly forget. For all the days that we think we have all together, in an instant or a series of moments, we realize we are no where close. If we are failing to work on ourselves, is it possible that we are missing the mark of whatever we are working on outside of ourselves as well?

The local radio station still plays programming from J. Vernon McGee ministries and his Through The Bible broadcast. For the portion I heard yesterday, at one point he shared a conversation that he was having with a young pastor; who after 3 short years of ministry was just out. Out of energy. Out of ideas. Out of sermons... like he had nothing left to offer. And results, or lack thereof, were visible in his church.

In McGee's wisdom, or perhaps just his experience, he inquired as to how much time the pastor was spending in the study of the Word... as well as in the preparation of his sermon. The response?

3 and 1.

Three or so hours in the Word.
One or two hours in sermon prep.

Out of ideas? Absolutely.
Out of energy? No doubt.
Ready to be out? It's like never having stepped in?

Perhaps I'm writing to myself. I often wish I was doing more. I often look at the status and impact of this site and wonder what's missing. Perhaps, just another reminder that I'm still under construction... just as much as the young pastor in conversation with McGee. I'm humbled by this undertaking, but I can't imagine putting such little time into a pastorate and expecting great results.

And yet, so many pastors find themselves continually tending themselves to church matters that don't revolve around the study of the Word and the preparation of the sermon. So we continue to pray against burnout.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, as we are all reminded, regardless of our place, age and time in life and ministry, pray pastors would continue to place their trust in God and rely on Him alone. Though wisdom is gained by experience, may they be careful to always seek the face of God, for the direction of the church and the topic of the sermon. In times of difficulty and certainty, may we be reminded to give praise and thanks, even while unfinished; that God has not forsaken, nor neglected us. We are His, imperfect and flawed as we are.

Students of the Word.
Created in the image of God.
Being conformed to the image of Christ.
We are under construction;
Always living and learning.
By the grace and for the glory of God.

- PNC

The radio DJ shared yesterday, insight from his pastor friend. A great spiritual truth that ended up be a reminder in my own life later in the day. It is simply this:

The longer you focus on the something, the stronger that object becomes in your life.

Whatever you put energy and focus, time and investment into feeding, nursing and building... whatever it is, it will seemingly multiply on it's own. The potential is great, for it to be come a negative stronghold that rises itself against the knowledge of God, or it will become an anchor of faith that will see your life through.

Of course, opportunity was granted to put this into practice yesterday after work, as a minor circumstance arose and considering the unknown starting bringing feelings of frustration to the forefront.

"This is not a good time for this to happen."
"I really don't want to deal with this and have to figure this out."
"I don't want to know the costs associated."
"Why can't this just work, like it's supposed... like one more thing needs to be added to the equation; both logistical and financial?"

Feed thoughts of worry and you'll be come worried. Frustrated. Anxious. Bitter. Upset. The list goes on. Yet, when we keep our eyes focused on Christ and the work of the Father in our lives...

Well, you know how much better things turn out when we simply trust and wait and see that the Lord is good.

Thus, let's pray for pastors this #associatePastorTuesday. For those whose focus and emphasis is perhaps legit and real, but simply the wrong thing for their life. Pray they would be empowered to give it back to God; may it not build a negative stronghold in their lives. May they respond to the challenges and difficulties of life with God's plan and purpose in mind. Pray a spirit of wisdom as they sort through situations and the emotions that surround them. May wisdom reign, as they move in the direction and leading of the Holy Spirit, walking in faith and not fear.

For He holds all things in His Hand.
May God hold our focus
The author and finisher of our faith.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

The weeks are passing by, fast enough that it's becoming increasingly difficult to remember how far back a particular writing exist in the archive when trying to reference a concept or idea by saying "if you remember a few weeks ago." If feels like it could be quite a bit longer than a few weeks ago. Nevertheless, I remember bringing up the concept of legacy, as it relates to pastors. And something clicked in my mind yesterday morning, during the opening minutes of the sermon.

While not quite related to legacy, it was the process and continuation of what happens in organizations after a long-standing leader is no longer in the leadership role. President, CEO, Senior Partner, Lead Pastor... whatever the head of the organization may exist as far as title in concerned, eventually someone else will sit in that seat.

And yet, it's the concept and understanding that the business, organization or church is bigger than the people who "run" it and bigger than the people who contribute to it, that continue to accomplish great things regardless of who is at helm.

For the stories abound... of people who built incredible organizations and then when new leadership stepped in and thought they were the cat's meow and over time, things went down hill. It's certainly a humble perspective that helps the process. When we understand that what we have been given; what we are responsible for; what we contribute to... that we do so as stewards of a picture and a purpose bigger than ourselves. It changes what we do, how we do it and how we respond to what happens to around us.

Many have witnessed the downfall of organizations who have suffered where this understanding was lacking or non-existent and quite frankly, it's a process the church-world and the kingdom of God as a whole, can't afford. It should be the last place such an even should transpire.

So, let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday. Pray that churches would not decline in their efforts and accomplishments as leadership roles and people change and transition. Pray for churches, where people and positions have taken on a selfish and unhealthy nature. May their be process of confession and healing, as acknowledgement that the mark has been missed comes to light and change is made. Pray God's help and wisdom for churches that are in transition; may the understanding of stewardship be at the forefront, as decision-makers converse and seek counsel. May the know the will of God as they work to advance the kingdom of God to new heights and greater depths... not because of who they are, but because of what God has called them to do.

For our lives our not our own.
And ministry is not about us.
In service to God.
For the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

A quick and interesting perspective on effectiveness.

In writing these daily prayers, of which I haven't calculated of late, but we're at 740+ consecutive days, some days the ideas take a little longer to develop and process mentally before writing. Other days, I may still have not have much to go, but something super-natural seems to happen, beyond my abilities and the words simply take off as I start typing.

So yesterday morning, while processing mentally, I saw an unrelated idea on the social media fan page of my favorite show. I posted, hey here's an idea and the notifications started going off with everyone commenting on the idea with more suggestions. Pretty soon, I was watching and reading the comments more than developing the post!  Hence, yesterday's post was a little late.

This morning... 585 suggestions in a short 23 hours!!

And while I'd love to figure out how to make that happen here in terms of effectiveness for Bring Me 70, it was also an effective lesson in how quickly we can get distracted on the less important thing being more effective than where our priority should be; let alone the importance of the eternal thing.

Yesterday was fun and the conversation interesting and the engagement of others was awesome to watch. And it wasn't ineffective, as in the midst of all the posts, I commented about being late on this blog and someone asked about Bring Me 70... so who knows how many are reading this now, thanks to the distraction of social media.

Thus, on this #effectiveSunday, will you join me once again? Pray today would be an effective day for the kingdom o fGod. May we be careful in what we allow to distract us and detour us from the efforts and work of ministry; knowing that we may never know, as Scripture describes, what will bring forth fruit and what will fail. Pray for discernment and direction as we move forward in life and faith, one day and one conversation at a time... whether with 1 life, 5 or 585.

Won by One.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I think building the kingdom of God is about the small things... it's about the way we go about our lives; and reach out to others. - Eddie DeGarmo

On this #communitySaturday, what could be more simple?

Sure, the grand gestures are moving.
The deep, meaningful moments and conversations have their place.
Power-filled times of gathering are awesome to experience.

But it is the insignificant; the little things that contribute. I'm reminded of the scene in Sleepless in Seattle, where Dr. Marsha is on the phone with Sam and asks what made his wife so special? Not knowing how to respond exactly, he finally responds with, "It was a million little things."

And so it is for the church. What are the differences we are making and contributing to those around us, both from within and outside the four walls of the church. Helping those in need, whether visible or not. Investing in relationships. Open and honest communication without the entrapment of offense.

Of course, if we don't practice making a difference in the lives of those closest to us through small and random acts of kindness, then how will be ever be illuminated to the possibility and vision of doing something great? As the old book reads, big things happen when you do the little things right. And let's be honest... doing the little things right can be a struggle.

Guess that explains so much emphasis on daily bread and worry not about tomorrow, nor be anxious for anything. For if you are not faithful with little, who will trust you with great treausre?

Really tempted to keep this #communitySaturday prayer short, in keeping with the sentiment.

God help us be faithful in doing the little things right and building the kingdom of God in the small things. Give us eyes that see, hands that help and feet that move. Not in our own strength, but with the power of the God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit.

Your kingdom come
On earth as it is Heaven.
For your glory.

- PNC

The world is ever changing. So much so, that's it's getting harder and harder to miss the clues and hints that the return of Christ is very much at hand. Yes, the Christian faith has said this for centuries and every generation looks at what is happening in their respective culture and society and thinks their days are numbered.

To put this in perspective, however, I caught part of a discussion on the radio where the guest of the program put eternity in perspective. Depending on the source, there's close to 2, perhaps as many as 3 deaths every second. Or 150,000-200,000 deaths per day. Yet God remains, unwilling that any should perish.

What's difficult about such numbers, is the reality of the fall of man. Life events happen as do accidents, but death is the result of the brokenness of the human condition in light of Almighty God. To further complicate the discussion, is a society that continues to push back against truth and morality and the authority of God's Word. It permeates generations and crosses social, economic and racial divides.

If that weren't enough, the realities of one's state on earth often stands in the way of God doing a work on a spiritual level. Health, economic, relational, mental needs and more stand in the way of people opening the door of their heart to Jesus Christ.

I think Jesus understood this phenomenon... for how many times was His physical healing accompanied with Go and sin no more. He met the reality of their need. He spoke to their heart.

Yet for all the challenges and difficulties of ministry and the work of missionaries, so many other factors have the potential to stand as barriers. It's not Christ can't push through it all to get to us, but rather will people push those issues aside to allow Christ to come in. And for those in ministry, will they do the same and allow God to work through them, despite the exhaustion and frustration of their reality?

So... another #missionsFriday on the books! Let's pray that God would indeed, break through the barriers, frustrations and distractions, for both the missionary and those they are reaching out to impact with the Gospel. May strongholds be broken, as minds are illuminated to the truth and the condition of the heart is exposed to the love of Christ. Pray for wisdom and boldness to declare the goodness of God in times of society's dramatic decline. May God's plans and purposes be fulfilled, despite man's best efforts to remove and keep Him from playing an active role in our lives.

For God so loved the world.
He has passionately pursued humanity since the beginning of time.
While culture has a whole may want nothing to do with God,
He is all about His Creation.
Relentless for the kingdom of Heaven.
For the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Over the past few weeks, I've had opportunity to listen to a number of great preachers deliver some incredibly powerful sermons. Tossed in to the mix have been a number of episodes of a radio show called "Equipped with Chris Brooks". He can be found on the Moody Radio Network and I've thoroughly enjoyed the shows that I've heard so far as well as the interviews and conversations he has engaged in along the way.

Yesterday, he interviewed John Stonestreet, whose latest book is titled A Practical Guide To Culture: Helping the Next Generation Navigate Today's World.

Over the course of the interview, Christ fielded a phone call from a listener, who shared with them the situation she is facing with her daughter, who is struggling with an incredibly difficult and controversial topic facing our culture... gender identity.

I know... you're wanting to know what this has to do with #pray4pastors and #deaconThursday. Well, we're here.

During their conversation with her, John mentioned having a similar conversation with a woman who facing the same situation with her child. Of course, John gave some of the same advice, which at the top of the list, was to continue to pray. But then he shared with the caller, the question he posed to this other mom. Are you getting any support from your church?

The mom looked at John, as if to say, are you kidding me? She responded verbally, with:
"Oh, I could never tell my church." They wouldn't know what to do. As if she would be ousted or shunned if anyone at church knew this was the situation she was facing on the home-front.

As I've stated in the past, deacons and church administrators and staff are on the front lines of both the church and the community. People in these positions, fielding phone calls and other conversations literally have their fingers on the pulse of what is going on with families and people in need... dare, I say, perhaps more-so than the pastors themselves. It's exciting to see what churches are accomplishing through "life groups" and small groups, helping people to connect at deeper levels of faith and fellowship, but at the same time, such a response is a pretty strong indictment against a church... both for the concern that love and grace would not be extended at such a challenging time and/or that the church is not equipped to help people through such a process and conversation on any level, let alone spiritual.

I don't know how to explain this dichotomy?

We want to the church to reach out to the lost and needy and share with them, that their brokenness is the result of Jesus not being present in their life, but then after they come to faith in Christ, they don't feel comfortable in coming to the people within the church and asking for assistance with the brokenness that exists in other areas of life as they work through their faith.

Does this make sense? Do you see the problem? What's the solution? Prayer... for starters.

As we embark on this first #deaconThursday of the third year of daily praying for pastors, will you join me once again? Pray that those in these critical church positions would indeed have the pulse on the church and the needs of the people, both inside and outside the four walls. Pray for wisdom and guidance as they converse and help people navigate life's difficulties. Pray that they would be equipped with resources and tools that will be practical and effective; that would help bring them through the challenge rather than feeling as though the battle will never end. May the church never forget, that everyone under the roof is in various states of repair and rebuilding by the Hand of God.

None of us are complete, fully-restored projects.
For God is at work in all of us.
Not making mistakes;
But using every detail and decision
To accomplish His purposes
That He may be glorified
In every life and every day that is nothing short of a miracle.

- PNC