Continual moments of trust.

That's almost all we can do. Sometimes, it is, literally, all that we can do.

For the rest of life, it is the essence, the very beginning of everything that follows

We don't have all the answers. And in the words of Chief of Staff, Leo McGarry, from The West Wing...

"We don't always know; how it ends."

You would think that not knowing would make it easier to trust God. But it doesn't. Not always. Not always at first. Not always as much as it should. We worry. We fret. We overthink, over-analyze and over-worry.

Conversely, we struggle more often than not, with an overwhelming sense of peace. An over-abundance of joy. And periods of prayer that extend into over-time. Yet the times of faithfulness and continued trust are worth it. Even when it seems as though you are just maintaining. That, in and of itself, is quite an accomplishment sometimes.

But it's one that God can honor. Because it equates to perseverance. We're not done yet. We're not giving out. We're gonna continue to plan and pray and figure things out and trust God through all of it that He will help us find our way. Then God does His part and grants a surprise blessing. It doesn't mean there aren't still battles and long days ahead; just that the continued moments of trust are not going unnoticed by His watchful eye.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday for those pastors that are having difficulty in the midst of trials and struggles to maintain a continual sense of trust. Pray they would neither lose hope, nor give up the fight. Pray that God would strengthen their hearts and renew their minds, from the battles that have worn them done. May they continue to serve faithfully and keep the perspective that even maintaining hope is important in getting through that which wages against them. Pray that worry, anxiety and overthinking and analysis would not get the best of them, but that even in the late hours, they would find rest and peace in the midst of the troubling unknown.

For one can never go wrong,
To continual place their trust in God alone.
To Him who never fails, neither sleeps nor slumbers;
Neither is He slack concerning us.
His plan is good and His timing perfect; for His glory.

- PNC

Does anybody truly love what they do? Every single aspect of their job? What about their vocation? The calling that is upon their life? "Every single aspect" might be a little bit of a stretch, for surely everyone has that "one" task or responsibility on their list that they would rather not deal with if at all possible.

And even operating in divine calling that God has placed upon an individual, requires a stepping out into faith and obedience that surely contains an element that, if it weren't for the calling, they would have no partaking in it.

My point is, that there will always be something in the process and journey of our day and responsibility that we will be less than thrilled to be doing. Yet there should be an overall purpose and point in the midst of it, that says "this is why I love what I do."

Yet, even within ministry, this element and perspective gets lost and discarded and as a result, burnout takes its' place.

There is no longer a joy and a passion; a thrill in the work and the calling. If the appeal is gone; then so is the motivation to continue. Such is the time that we usually begin to check out and lose hope, which is dangerous territory for church leadership and those in the pastorate.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not lose the love, joy and thrill of the calling that has been placed upon them. Pray that God would rekindle the spark within them and fan the flame. May burnout be removed and a sense of purpose and meaning restored; that their work is of the utmost of importance for eternity; even in the elements and responsibilities that are undesirable, but necessary. Pray that God would strengthen and fill them anew and afresh; that their efforts would not be done in vain nor begrudgingly.

Working as unto the Lord
May His light and grace shine upon them
For His glory
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yes, it's a post-service post on this #effectiveSunday but it's okay. You'll be okay, I promise.

I not exactly sure what to call a moment of realization, that really doesn't reach the level of epiphany or revelation. An "a-ha" moment doesn't even quite provide accurate description. It was simply one of those, refreshing, "wow, that's really cool"  how that works, except it was about a truth you've always known to be true. Does that make sense? Yes, PNC... it will after you tell us what you're talking about!

So, after communion this morning, the band was doing the closing song and singing about the finished work of Christ; that everything we needed and that He provided for us, was done at the cross. We often talk about our journey of faith being a process and that God is at work and yes, that's true for our understanding; plus it probably helps us manage and make sense out of life and circumstance for which the rest of the world has no answer as to why we are enduring such matters.

But God builds in "complete states". For all of creation, He spoke and it came into being. There were no eggs that hatched and grew into what we know today. He created in states of maturity. Adam and Even were not sweethearts from neighboring cribs. He created man and He then, created woman. The effectiveness of God's Work lies in the fact that God neither does anything half-baked nor half-planned.

His Word does not return void because there is nothing lacking from it. Neither is His plan ineffective because He has overlooked a detail or forgotten a piece of the universal puzzle. It all works by His sovereign Hand and precise timing because of the fullness of His glory and grace.

Thus, it begs the question... what in our lives and ministries are inefficient and ineffective because they are incomplete? Yes, I know there is always a new experience and better information that create to better level of proficiency regarding whatever it is that we are working on. Conversely, however, what do we make out to be more of a process than it should be because we fail to step in faith and obedience to what God has called us to do; thinking that we are missing elements and experiences that we are more concerned about having, even though God has already made provision for them?

Moses comes to mind. Call them excuses if you will, but it illustrates perfect this point. God had a plan, yet all Moses could see where the things in His life that he thought he was lacking to step out in obedience to that plan. God wasn't concerned about any of it, but Moses hesitated. God's work and plan was complete; Moses effectiveness perhaps hindered by his lack of understanding that such was the case.

On this #effectiveSunday, let that not be the case in our own lives. Pray that we would understand anew and afresh, that not only is God at work, but that His work and plan are complete. Pray that today would be a new step in faith and obedience as we understand what God would have us to do, say and go within our sphere of influence. May we not make excuses as Moses did, but trust that God has provided the process and means for us to be able to do what He has called us to do. For if it is by His grace that we are saved, then why should we consider it as though He is filling in the gaps of our short-comings. Our who lives are one short-coming; thus whatever God would accomplish in us is only do so because of His completeness.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Cross & Gospel of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Dear Father Time...

If you could stop sneaking off when I'm not paying attention, that would be great.

Sincerely,

The guy asking where the day went.

But it's #communitySaturday. A day to relax, a day to enjoy the company of family and friends, neighbors and strangers. I wasn't reminded today that there's no reason for people to be a jerk on purpose, but it was cool to watch as people respond to statements that bring back fond memories or a good laugh.

Is the world facing some serious issues? Absolutely. On a global scale. At a national level. And in the very homes in which we live. However, no matter what you are facing, you can decide to be intentional to not be the one who adds more stress, burden, frustration and angst to a person's life. You may not have a clue as to what they are facing; in which case a lack of second thought as to how you respond may or may not break their limit.

As enjoyable as social media is, that same environment is a prime example of a world of responses of which "a second thought" was not even given third consideration, let alone a first. It's communication that nearly requires as much, if not more discernment than that which occurs face to face or even via over the phone. We all know that it doesn't take much for a conversation thread to take a turn for the worse on your favorite platform, but at the same time, it really doesn't take that much to intentionally work to be a positive force for good.

It's as true online as it is standing in line. If the desire and willingness to make a difference is present, and it's going to require time, effort and a level of intention, then why not do something that will make someone laugh, bring encouragement, lift their spirits, brighten their day and lessen the stress of this present life. What a mean spirit it must take to make matters worse than is necessary. Granted, you don't always know that will be the outcome, but more often than not, it is reasonably predictable.

So, let's pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us to be a blessing to those we come into contact and communication with; regardless of whether its' on a social platform or a neighborhood porch. May we be people that are a joy and blessing to be around; rather than a bear and a burden. Pray that our egos and agenda's would not be the driving force, but that God would use our perspectives and personalities to reflect the care and joy of the Lord through a demeanor that is not controlled by frustration and stress.

For it is not that we are without our own battles,
But that we breathe a little easier having entrusted them to God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

You would think that as you progress through this life and the journey of faith, that things would get easier. But they don't. And we shouldn't be surprised. Consider the work of God in your life. Does not Scripture refer to it as the Refiner's fire?

The cleansing, transformation work of the Holy Spirit is like being under the spotlight, in the hot seat, under fire.

We often consider being under fire, as being under attack. Which is very much true. It is a two-fold perspective.

God is making us stronger in the faith, as we journey through life and experience and everything else. The challenge, the struggle, the battle, the frustration... mixed in with the occasional joy, laughter and sorrow; God is using all of it for His glory. There is no doubt in my mind.

Alternatively, though, is there not a competition for strength? Something gets built until the storm comes and destroys it. So rebuilding occurs. Stronger. And a stronger storm comes. And a third rebuild. And an even stronger, third storm hits.

God is building a stronger force of faith within us...
The enemy, in his determination, mounts a stronger attempt of attack against us.

We are not watching the war, nor are we in the war as a participant. We are the very object of the war. There is no willingly turning to the enemy's side. There is only the look at God that does not lose trust in Him or the look that says we are done with His rebuilding us.

This is decision of burnout. Is it the spiritual warfare that gets to us as believers? Absolutely. But for all the struggles along the way within ministry and the work that God desires to accomplish that is met with a people and cultural that is simultaneously interested in the spiritual realm, but not desirous of a relationship with God, the process of storm and rebuild seems at times a futile, albeit eternal exercise.

Do we know better? Yes
But that hasn't stopped some from looking at God and simply wanting it to be over.

On this #missionsFriday, while this could be for any of us, pray especially for missionaries that very well may be at such a brink in their faith. Pray for those on the field, both at home and abroad, whose future seems bleak and they are weary and worn from the onslaught of storms and battles against them from cultural and political attack. May God strengthen them and raise them up, anew and afresh. Pray that they would neither lose hope, nor be dismayed. Pray that would not worry about the outcome nor the process, but would continue to place their trust in God alone, even if it feels futile... even if it feels as though they don't have it within them to do so one more time. May God give them incredible grace and amazing unfound favor.

That His will would be accomplished.
Their lives of faith and corresponding work, not done in vain.
But for the glory of God alone.

- PNC

Thomas Edison, in his seemingly unquenchable ability to persevere, gave us an incredibly profound perspective.

"I didn't fail. I found 10,000 ways that didn't work."

There's now 3 complete years worth of daily prayers in the archives, so my apologies that I don't recall exactly how long ago I wrote a post regarding best practices, but for whatever reason, I was considering how that terminology and principle came into being.

Obviously, there is wisdom and success in duplicating the activities and procedures that have work elsewhere and by and large, it works. Not always, as markets are different, along with companies and organizations and the culture they are built on.

Having said that, it's kind of amazing how often people and organizations repeatedly attempt to try and implement processes and strategies that others before them have done. It's a continual engagement, as if every generation has a conversation that involves, "I tried that before and it doesn't work. This way is better."

Best practices is doing the better way in the most effective and efficient way possible. It's been perfected, analyzed and refined some more. But that doesn't mean that someone won't come along with a more epic (or tragic) way of going about a situation or solving a problem and create a bigger mess than what was before them when they started.

He who wants to become wise, listens and learns.
He wants to learn, seeks those who know.
Those who know, most likely know from having done.
And doing, as Edison will attest, is quite an effective teacher.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that churches would not duplicate the problems and processes of previous churches and organizations in their effort to accomplish goals and achieve ministry success. Pray for camaraderie among church leaders, pastors and staff; that while they have their hands full with their own operations and ministries, that they would find time to invest in the leadership of other churches and ministries as well. As companies have in interest in what happens within their industry, so to does the church have a vested interest in what happens within Christendom-at-large. May God help leadership to be engaged and make a greater impact by teaching and training others, that 10,000 more ways that don't work would be discovered, but what does work and work well would be replicated.

For the benefit of the advance of the kingdom of God
Wise stewards of our resources, knowledge and time
For His glory.

- PNC

Is it that I'm writing this post, with blue-tooth in my ear, streaming my favorite, classic Christian rock station, which is currently playing P.O.D.'s Youth Of A Nation song. And it's #youthPastorWednesday.

Some days you think you are raising good kids; that there is hope for this coming generation and then you get home and your youngest has raided the family size container of Double Stuffed Oreo's. Seriously, kid? I didn't even get one yet!

Guess the remaining few are mine.

I'm probably one of the last people that need to be writing on good habits and self-discipline and instilling the same into this next generation (lots of c'mon Dad, get it together moments). It's more of a struggle than it should be, yet the daily reminders that our time and investment in the lives of our kids are important are ever-present... so much so that it's hard to miss unless you are living with your head looking down; which sadly many of us are, whether it be at the ground or at the phone. (Is there a difference? #asking4afriend)

Again... I'm not judging you. I sit in front of the television too while scrolling social media, then tell my kid to get off the tablet while Netflix is playing their kid's show. It's another ah-ha moment, as they even asked again a few moments ago, when is the next time that we go to church. Ministry starts at home, just as much as their education begins long before they step into the classroom. Yet the distractions of life and responsibilities of adulthood always seem to stand in the way of what's most important, both at home and at church... relationships. Long before God did, He was. And while He gave mankind tasks, He more importantly, walked with man in the Garden, daily.

Are we doing? Probably not as much as we should.
More importantly though, are we living in relationship and developing that ability in our youth? Not if we can't get them to look up and around; which won't happen if we don't model it for them. And by we, I mean me.

We should no longer wait for our churches to build faith in our kids anymore than we would blindly allow the education system to teach our kids... of which we are witnessing some of those repercussions even now in today's cultural and social battles.

So, let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help those pastors who are dealing with some uphill battles and struggles in the lives of youth who have not had a firm foundation of faith established at an earlier age. Pray that God would give them wisdom in those relationships as well as grace as they communicate truth into their lives. Pray that God would help us as parents, to do our part to prepare and equip our children for the world that is full of opportunity; not only for great success, but of great destruction. May God guard their hearts, minds, souls, and spirits from the enemy who would seek to bring their life to ruin through complacency and apathy towards God and people. Pray that God would raise up a generation that would seek and follow God alone and use us, despite our ongoing flaws and failures to teach them well.

For the glory of God
And His kingdom alone.
May God shed His grace on us.

- PNC

History is important. It also, sadly, can't be rewritten after the fact.

But whatever the topic, even or subject matter, whether on a personal level or a national level, it is necessary to have an accurate analysis. Granted we don't always have all the information or the complete story until months, years and decades later, even; but an accurate account is crucial for a number of reasons.... most importantly, to help us not repeat that which went wrong.

Ironically, I'm writing this after following a thread on social media, about a young couple in their 20's becoming debt-free and yet struggling with feeling as though they are wasting their time to be able to enjoy "life" during their 20's. And tons of comments follow... about how much farther they will be ahead by making the sacrifice now in their youth, rather than living life to the full and literally paying for it one, two and three decades later. Comments are flooding in by people who are 2 and 3 decades later, and kicking themselves for not doing what this young couple is accomplishing.

We can talk about a barrage of social, cultural and national issues for which this truth applies, the need for accuracy regarding history but we'll leave that to the experts who do that sort of thing daily. On a personal level, regardless of stage and position you find yourself in life today, it's easy to get caught up and burned out thinking about how the prospect of tomorrow would be different had you done yesterday differently. And in the middle of that is now doing what is necessary today, rather than what is desirable today.

Better to sacrifice early, by choice, than later, by force. 

Everybody deals with regret differently, especially in their own lives, where's it's easy to tell and repeat our side of the story, rather than the whole story or convince ourselves that situations and our stupidity wasn't as bad as everyone else saw it to be (speaking for a friend *wink, wink). I would think to deal with such matters while engaged in some incredible challenging circumstances in the lives of others through the avenue of ministry would be incredibly difficult.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for those pastors struggling with regrets and decisions of long ago. Even though they can't be changed, pray that they would have an accurate analysis what happened, so that lessons can be learned that haven't already and wisdom can be applied moving forward. Pray that God would redeem the time that was lost, by bad decisions, missed opportunities, misguided dreams and unproductive activities. May God use their experience to help others in their journey, as they are reminded once again of the powerful truth of God's sovereign hand...

He works all things together
For those who love Him
And are called according to His purpose.

- PNC

Have you noticed the conversation changes when among leaders?

It sounds different (or at least it should). The nature of the conversation takes on a different form. The dynamics of the conversation work on a whole other level. If you are in a leadership role, you've experienced this. In fact, if you aren't, you've noticed a different dynamic when you engage leadership.

Your approach to them changes.
How you handle yourself in their presence changes.
Your expectations regarding what you hope will come from the interaction... change.

Words matter.

Consider how you speak about frustrating circumstances in your life... in your workplace, on the home-front. Words are the result of an attitude and the change when leadership is engaged, because we recognize whose company we are in! Yet for as much as we can forget that whoever is in our presence is valuable, so too can leadership drop the ball and possess the wrong attitude and correspondingly, communicate the wrong statement.

So, the question remains for us all of us, but especially the leadership...
... are we conversation changers for the better or because we are bitter?

Let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not succumb to the frustration and angst of the circumstances and challenges they face. Pray that God would give them wisdom and discernment in navigating the matters that are brought before them. Pray that the conversation would change, because they are in the room. While we all face difficult moments, pray such times would neither detour nor derail their attitudes, and as a result, their speech in response to the problem(s) at hand. In all things, may God be glorified, as they seek and trust Him to bring about good, in moments were good is seemingly hiding from our finite vision.

That we may see with God's eyes,
And respond to life with His heart.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Steve Taylor is a brilliant song writer and performer, often taking a unique perspective of social issues as well as problems within the church and Christiandom. One such Taylor classic, asks the question, Whatever Happened To Sin?

It's a question as relevant today as it was upon it's release in 1983 on his album, I Want To Be A Clone.

I bring this up, because I got to thinking about just how much we allow into our lives, that distracts and detours us from God, our relationship with Him and what plans He would have us to be about in our lives. We are all tempted and face battles and struggles of various kinds. There are times when there is a knock upon our door, because the one who stands outside doesn't know us and other times, because there is a familiarity and comfort level that exists in our relationship.

Obviously, Christ has told us that He stands at the door and knocks upon our hearts. So too, though, I believe sin also knocks... repeatedly.

This sentiment seems to be a shared theology as a day or two after I considered this concept, about sin knocking on certain doors because of it's comfort level with a person, I passed a church marque sign that read: When sin knocks on your door, let Jesus answer it.

Which is a great, theological response. Christ lives and reigns in this heart, sin. Get lost!

However, what if we don't allow Christ to answer the door, and we give way to sin's knock and sadly, regrettably, fail to turn down it's request to enter and be entertained. Are we too comfortable with sin? Perhaps, if 35 years ago, one musician asked why we've stopped calling it out for what it is? Has anything changed? Well, besides the fact that it is becoming more unacceptable to call it what is. And that hinders a great deal of whatever effectiveness for the kingdom of God that we are attempting to achieve.

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that we would not grow accustom and comfortable with sin, both within our personal lives and in our world-at-large. Pray that we would not allow sin to take up residence in our lives, to the point that it knows better than to even knock on our door. May we follow the advice on the sign and allow Jesus to respond to sin's desire to be a part of our lives. Pray that we would remain ever so focused upon our relationship with God and be about the calling and purposes which He has placed upon our lives.

That we would recognize sin
And call it out for what it is...
A destroyer of the soul.
As we remain committed to the lover of our soul,
Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

 

We had a powerful discussion this morning during the Men's Breakfast at church. Our round-table style, cafe-conversation involved a brief hermeneutics exercise on the book of Philemon. It's basically, a who, what and why analysis of the book, as well as the theme and main points of what the author is trying to convey, followed by a take-away of how the content can be applied to our lives today.

So what's up with Philemon?

Well, it is #communitySaturday, so in a word...

COMMUNITY.

We know community isn't perfect. But Philemon is a lesson in what community could and should be. A man betrayed is advised to accept his betrayer, after the betrayer not only comes to Christ, but serves an important role in the ministry. Paul advises Philemon to essentially do the right thing, by not holding the past against this man, and if he is unable to forgive, he should hold it against Paul.

It's a powerful picture of a man transformed by Christ. (the betrayer)
It's a amazing picture of a man reflecting Christ. (Paul)
It's a dynamic picture of a man encouraged to be more like Christ. (Philemon)

Such circumstances are as difficult in today's day and time as they were for Philemon's church. We want people to be transformed by Christ. We pray to that end. We converse with them to that end. But if we've been wronged by anyone, even if they were a part of the church community when the wrong occurred, we have a hard time accepting people as brother's and sister's in Christ.

If you haven't dealt with this problem personally, you know someone who has.
If you haven't yet, I pray that you don't ever; but then again, everyone is human. Even Christians.

We all hope we reflect Christ, yet we all struggle when we are encouraged to further reflect Christ. What does that tell you?

Pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us be the community that reflects the person and character of Christ to a community and world desperately in need of Him. In this complex society and system of laws, pray that would be people who would pray for lives to be tranformed and may we live as though we ourselves, have been truly transformed. Pray that our church leadership would set the example of Christ, as Paul set for Philemon and his community. May we not get hung up on the past and the wrong, as troubling, problematic and unbelievable as it actually exists; but place our trust in God along and the power of the Cross of Jesus Christ.

For He is able to exceedingly above and beyond
That which we could ask or imagine.
Even through the power of forgiveness, healing and restoration.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I was listening to the music on my phone this afternoon, when DeGarmo & Key started playing. Old school, Christian Rock, if you aren't familiar with their music. You won't be disappointed.

They started singing the song, Special Kind of Love. The lyrics talk about how it could only be God, who could love humanity so much that He essentially sacrificed Himself, in order that He might have relationship with us.

What a powerful message. One that we obviously should all be about sharing, whether across the street or across the globe, on this #missionsFriday.

Yet, it truly took an act of God to redeem humanity.

We all have our days, where simply lose our desire to "adult". You just don't want to be engaged.

Driver's on the road aren't fully attentive to driving.
Classmates are bugging our kids, while our colleagues prompt us to question our employment decisions.
Then there's the days where you aren't sure if you would rather your spouse be upset with you or your boss... God forbid they give you grief on the same day, regardless of whether it was deserved or not.

Compassion loses to cynicism.
Love gets buried, not by hatred necessarily, but perhaps more by apathy.
An obedient response gives room for a hesitant one.

God help is, what Christ did for us, indeed took a special kind of love; for all too often we miss the opportunity to express a common kind of love. And as society continues to redefine what "love" looks like, the Gospel will become even more special... as long as it continues to go forth.

On this #missionsFriday, pray for those who are struggling to keep the love of Christ at the forefront of our lives. Pray for missionaries, who are weighed down and fatigued by life's stresses and battles. May God help them, where compassion, love and obedience are perhaps hindered or diminished by current circumstances. Pray God would give them wisdom in the days ahead, and grace with themselves. May the Holy Spirit do a fresh work within them; and with all of us, as it is realized where we have missed the mark in our daily lives and activities.

For the Gospel is not only more relevant than ever before
But more needed too.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Four years. Fourteen Years. Forty-nine years.

We commit to a decision.
We commit to a person.
We commit to a process.
We commit to a life.

And life has its' ups and downs, twists and turns; moments that make you pause in gratitude and others that come to halt and cause you to question.

All sorts of questions...
... is it worth it?
... am I doing the right thing?
... am I in the right place? at the right time?
.. (you finish your list)

Such moments seem to come waves with a rhythm and at nearly every rung of the ladder of roles and responsibilities.  The days you think that you perhaps you are "done" are combated with dreams and visions of what could be accomplished if you pressed in and pressed on; forging ahead as you continue to build upon the experience and wisdom that has brought you this far.

Don't let the pending burnout and the build-up of frustration prevent you from the calling and anointing that God has graced you with thus far. Yes, there are seasons of change, but there's a difference between God changing seasons and people abandoning ship.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for those within church leadership who have either quickly reached a place of great difficulty or have built a level of longevity to where they feel they can no longer continue. Pray that God would strengthen them and quicken them, body, soul, mind and spirit. Pray that God would give them wisdom in the decisions they face and the challenges they are working to overcome. May the storm not overtake them, but that they would continue to place their trust in Him and persevere through the process.

May life neither discourage them,
Nor the enemy defeat them;
But that they would live victorious
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Tip #1 on the greatness of Fatherhood.

Be as ready and willing to help out the 40-year old kid as much as you would expect them to help out their 10-year old kid.

The struggle for fathers, is that no matter where you are in life, you always wish there was more that you could do, more that you can say (or at least more that got thru), more that you could give... more that you could share and impart into their lives.

You're never done being a parent. You are never done loving your kid, teaching your kid, encouraging your kid... crying, laughing, mourning with them and rejoicing over them. And you know you have been successful in these matters when the importance of your role in their life is recognized and appreciated.

And you have to love, how our Heavenly Father, no matter our age, position and current struggle called reality, steps up and into matters and works on our behalf.

So, if we being good, know how to give gifts to our kids, how much more the God who created us in His image?

Sadly, it's easy to forget, or perhaps simply take for granted just how much God is work, moving in our lives and making arrangements for His sovereign plan to come together. And yet it does, time and time again, as we continually place our trust in Him and do the things that He has placed His finger on; having brought it to our attention that we should make a difference in the lives of those around us.

What greater lesson and relationship could we help to plant and develop in the lives of our kids, regardless of their current age. Love knows no limits as age knows endless lessons.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for pastors who don't healthy relationships with their parents, especially their fathers. Pray that God would fill them afresh with His presence and strengthen them by the power of the Holy Spirit. May God do a healing work in the hearts, perhaps damaged and broken from events many years removed. Pray that God would transform their perspective, even as they continue, both in ministry and in their own lives and families. Pray that God would give them wisdom as they engage and minister to youth and kids, setting for them the example of a relationship with Father God that was perhaps not modeled in their own life at an early stage.

For all the times, Dad has said, "trust me"
May their be no hesitation in our response
To placing our complete trust in the hands of God
For How. Much. More.
Will He give to His own.
And for His glory.

- PNC

Mom's advice from thirty-something years ago hasn't changed. You can't please everyone. Certainly, not as often as we hope. Unless, there is a level of understanding and commit to each other that exceeds most other relationships.

Even though, life is full of disappointments.

We let people done, all day, every day... in circumstances that are well beyond our control as often as they are within our control. And even when you find a balance, of doing your best, moving your fast, applying wisdom and experience and proper context... you can get "everything" right, as it depends on you and still manage to get something "wrong" in the eyes of the one on the other side of the table.

I fear entitlement has overstepped it's bounds in relationships of all kinds.

Spouses expect more than can be given, even when the other spouse feels they are already given their "all".
Bosses expect or demand more than is reasonable; and for many of us, more than what they are willing to compensate their employees to include in their responsibilities.
Kids expect the world, often more than we can give them, as much as we would love to do and give more.
Business clients somehow manage to combine the effort and emotion of all the previous three multiplied a couple of times over.

The struggle is real... and once again, church and ministry, not immune.

The real frustration however, lies in the disappointment that we feel internally. All the external stuff we can dismiss, sometimes with relative ease. Other times, it does feel as though as competitor greater, and stronger than we stands over us with one foot upon our back.

At some point and time we've all been there. And even in writing this, I'm dreading the thought of associate pastors who are living in this state of existence. We understand when it happens in the workplace and with clients; it's scary when it happens from the person behind the pulpit or from the people in the pew... with expectations that we simply can 't gain victory over, in any way, shape or form.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for pastors whose life is this frustrating reality. Pray that God would give them wisdom, in handling difficult people with challenging expectations; in whatever role those people play and however the expectations manifest themselves. May their be a grace about their lives as though go about their work and ministry. Pray for strength to endure, especially for the days when set-backs seem to dis-count and discredit whatever positive gains they may have made. Pray for an inner peace to be restored; even that which has been lost and stolen long ago. May the joy of the Lord return and be their strength, for every arena, role and relationship of their lives.

That whatever work is done,
Be done as unto the Lord
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Perhaps something clicked between yesterday and this morning, but it wasn't too far into the day when I started reflecting on some of the incredible life stories of recent pastors whose ministries and leadership I have enjoyed in recent years. The truly epic journeys that some of these men and women have endured, if not them, personally, their parents or grandparents whose lives got a hold of revolutionized.

A pastor with a grandfather who, after God called him into full-time ministry paid off his old gambling debts.
A pastor who had a biker for a father and a bar-maid for a mother... and yet God changed future generations.
A pastor, who at one time nearly stood at the edge of a wayward life... but God rewrote his future.

It's an incredibly powerful testimony to have such a conversion experience in the life of a pastor or ministry leader. And while it can be disconcerting to those who don't have such a powerhouse story; the legacy that begins with such stories is amazing.

It's amazing to watch it unfold in the generations that follow.
It's also a little scary, as we have watched numerous times, one generation witness a dramatic impact in their ministry and then the next generation somehow, somewhere along the line, dropped the torch. And the church suffers. Maybe not immediately, Maybe not entirely. But eventually.

As pastor has mentioned many times, every generation needs it's own revelation of God. For one generation's revelation is the next generation's religion. And that is when the legacy of ministry is placed into jeopardy.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors, especially those who do have an incredible testimony behind their ministries. Pray for their families and the generations that follow them; may the legacy be protected, not for their name sake, but for the sake of eternity. Pray that God would guard their homes and children; that they would not have to face and overcome the challenges and demons that previous generations battled. May generational curses be broken and generational promises established and fulfilled. Pray the impact of one's ministry would be increased by the generations that follow because of their own revelation of God, rather than hindered by allowing to become a religious exercise.

For God did not grant freedom,
That we would return to enslavement.
Victorious for the cause of Jesus Christ
For as many years that remain.

- PNC

It truly makes thing significantly more effective and efficient when things are done in order. There is a process for everything, and where there isn't, plan on one being established and written in the near future. This is how things get lost... through a loss in the passing on of knowledge.

However, along with the obtaining of knowledge and experience, should eventually come the acknowledgement of that achievement. Such was the case in church this morning, as two of our leaders were in the church were officially introduced as on-staff Pastors, having completed the requirements within our fellowship of churches to receive pastoral credentials.

They will continue to serve, now, not as leaders over their ministries, but Pastors.

I know, sometimes a title is simply a title. And sometimes, the title is a perception things.

(I"m reminded of the episode in The West Wing, where the executive assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff attempts to jokingly refer to herself as the Deputy Deputy Chief of Staff.) Guess, you had to watch it for yourself.

So, while the title should instill a level of respect and recognition of someone's abilities and expertise, it should also not negate the fact that they were probably quite accomplished long before the title. (As evidenced by how many people receive honorary degrees, even posthumously.)

Having said that, the kingdom of God has it's team dynamics, just like any other team. Some are leaders and decision makers, others are encouragers, doers and dreamers. Some are detractors, side-liners, naysayers and seat-fillers. We don't like to think that some of those dynamics exist, but it doesn't take long to be a part of a church, to notice that they do appear.

It's awesome to be effective for the kingdom of God, even when you don't have the title. Conversely, it's a tragic state of affairs for a ministry or positions within ministry to lack effectiveness, particularly by those who do hold a certain title. If you have it, all the more reason to accomplish the most good you can with it. If you don't have it, do all you can, regardless.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that ministry would continue to advance and grow, in effective and efficient manner by those who are knowledgeable as well as those who are recognizable. Pray that the people of God would be about His plan and purposes, regardless of a specific or title that accompanies the work and ministry in which they are engaged. May each of us use our time, talents and treasures to advance the cause of Jesus Christ and point others to a relationship with the same.

For we all serve a function and purpose,
Some externally, some internally,
Some in seeming obscurity
But God neither wastes a role, nor a responsibility
To be used for His glory.

- PNC

Life and relationships are interesting dynamic... as if I needed another personal reminder of this truth. It goes without saying, that life is a series of stages and people come and go; some with the purpose of goodness and other with the intent of ruin.

You'll have friends who will stand by to the point, you consider them more family than actual blood relatives.
At other times, you'll have family who will be standing by you while you wonder in the back of your mind, what happened to the friends who weren't were they said they would be when the time came?

As the strong of a nation lies in the security of it's borders, so to the strength of one's life relies on the healthiness of it's own boundaries, especially with regards to relationships.

The people who tell you that they value you, perhaps don't to the degree you think they should.
People say one thing to your face and later talk to someone else about your face.

Toxicity brings to ruin everything it comes in contact with, whether the effects be immediate or gradual. So too, can people bring us to a similar, disastrous existence both in quick, swift fashion and in the delayed wearing down of one's soul.

While we are you we are, more importantly, we need to be who God has called us to be and declared over our lives.

I read recently, that if you committed to making a 1% improvement in any area of your life and did so daily, by the end of the year, it would a 365%.

Thus, whatever your place in life and whatever your existence is within the "community", there's no reason tomorrow can't and shouldn't be an improvement and a year from now, nearly unbelievable.

Today's prison should not delay tomorrow's freedom.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that God would start with us; that as people of faith, we would not bring toxicity into the lives of others. Pray that God would help us manage, balance or even purge where necessary, the toxic relationships that exist within our own lives. Pray that we would be people who live according to God's ways and Word, rather than people's expectations, beliefs and opinions. May there be a grace about our lives, that overcomes the stress and tension that often disrupts the truth about life and reality. Pray that God would use us to point a lost and dying world to Him; that our own stress in life would not be stumble for others. May our lives bring glory to God, rather than disgrace and may God give us wisdom and discernment to know when we should persevere in prayer or to part ways in peace.

For a healthier community
Because we are healthy and strong in Christ alone.
For the glory of God, we pray.

- PNC

I'm so glad and grateful that God is sovereign.  He has a plan and a purpose that is far superior to what man can fathom and dream. If not, then what is He doing?

You've asked that before, regarding the people in your life. Perhaps even of those, in authority over you. Are they trying to set me up for failure? Do they like watching my struggle? Sure, they may have a grand purpose, but being in the dark as to what that purpose might be makes it difficult for one to persevere through the process and incredibly frustrating to endure in the midst of the process.

Nobody likes the state of existence in which they are on a need to know basis. And right now, you don't need to know. Yet, that all too frequent occurrence with God's sovereign plan and divine purpose.

If we admit that in the life of the "everyday" believer, there are spiritual forces at work against us that manifest themselves in the physical realm, then how much more are the forces against those on the front lines of advancing the Gospel of Christ and claiming eternal ground in the souls of humanity?

Pray this #missionsFriday, that God would minister to those struggling with the next steps of ministry. Pray for the battles and challenges they face and that are mounting against them. May they feel neither defeated nor detoured, but focused on the purpose God has called them to complete. Pray their faith would be found steadfast and unwavering; able to withstand all attacks of the enemy. Pray they would continue to trust in God, especially in the darkest hours of the longest days, in which they feel as though they are being taken to task for reasons unknown.

For greater is He who is them them
Than he who is in the World.
For the cause of Jesus Christ
And the glory of God the Father.

- PNC

For all the incredibly brave and noble people who fill and stand in the gap in all sorts of leadership roles, there are plenty who give it bad name, as well as do a less than stellar job, by seeking these rolls for the wrong reasons.

Sadly, pastors have done it... but worse, so have the advisors. And pastors have chosen people for wrong reasons just as people have desired the role for their own wrong reasons.

Also wrong... using the phrase "wrong reasons" four lines in row. But... you didn't notice that.

What concerns me, as well as complicates the reality of the matter, is the conversation we had a few days ago, regarding society's rush to judgement in nearly every arena of life. Not that we haven't been that way for quite some time, but it's gotten significantly more prevalent... no doubt due in part to the onslaught of social media.

The people you think desire leadership with honorable intentions and the decision makers and those who sit as a part of the process sometimes miss the mark. And the people who you thought didn't have an ounce of honorable intention in their soul end up being surprisingly on point. I didn't say perfect. All too often we demand what doesn't exist, then act surprised that our expectations weren't meant.

It truly is a strange phenomenon. But what do you expect from a flawed humanity?

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray that those who seek leadership roles, especially within the church, would indeed be people of honor and integrity; desirous to serve the community rather than satisfy their ego. Pray for discernment for the pastors and others who have input into who steps in advisory roles. Pray also for the church as whole; that we would exercise sound principles, understanding and reasoning when it comes to assessing people and circumstance. May we not rush to judgement, whether through condemnation or commemoration. Pray that we would speakers of truth because we are seekers of the truth.

And while we may make the decisions,
May God direct our steps
And illuminate our paths.
For the glory of God.

- PNC