So, we had a missions-focused dinner last weekend, followed by a small panel during the Sunday service. A simple, engagement of conversation that provided the congregation insight into their lives. Among the many points of discussion where things like calling and direction. Then they closed out the conversation with what they needed in terms of support.

Among the very first answers, if not the first...

Friends.

We've prayed to this end before, across the board, for pastors and church leadership and of course, missions. But to hear it first hand, naturally, reemphasized the importance and power of high-quality relationships. It's especially important in matters and circumstances where stakes are high on a daily basis and the work is, if you'll permit the play on words, "mission critical".

In light of eternity, that's true. And while it may not seem that way on a day-in an day-out basis, missionaries have daily struggles and issues they face as much as anyone else does, if not more. Thus, if we value great friends and quality time and conversation with them in the realm of our comfort zone, how much more is it important for missionaries who have, quite literally, been called out of their comfort zone.

Friends are hard to come by, at least, it seems that way at times. Conversely, if we were honest with ourselves, we couild point to times and seasons where we probably weren't in the best place to show ourselves friendly and thus, the connection was missed. And perhaps the opportunity for the miraculous to occur.

People come and go. Sometimes on purpose. Other times by default. And then there is a distinct and specific parting of ways. But like so much else in life, they begin and end by being and living intentional.

So let's pray this #missionsFriday, for those missionaries who are perhaps lacking in quality friendships, both where they minister and where they receive their support. Pray that God would give them the right connections and conversations to meet their needs, build them up and raise the quality of their life. Pray that God would give the clarity, to know who has come into their lives to be a blessing and encouragement, rather than a source of contention and discouragement. May they have a discerning spirit to know how to meet needs and invest in the lives of those they come in contact with on a daily basis. May God help us, as much as He helps them, that we may each be a better friend; contributing to make the lives of everyone around us better than we found them.

For God has never left us, nor forsaken us.
The great, friend of sinners.

- PNC

I heard another sermon recently which talked about wisdom. And once again, received a painful reminder of the constant struggle of trusting in God and seeking Him rather than trying to figure it out on your own with your solutions, skills and strength.

It's not enough. It's never been enough. It never will be enough.

Let me ask myself the question that many have done for me many times... when will you learn?!

Shall we count the ways and times that I don't heed the words of Matthew?? Seek first His righteousness; His kingdom.

Him.

Neither what we do nor what happens to us is about us. We deceive ourselves that it is and we defend ourselves that it is, but alas, the eternal reality of it all is that is not... about us.

But ideas, words, and decisions do have consequences as much as they have rewards depending on the nature and intent of it all. We don't always remember that that's the case and we don't always enjoy when the fruit of that comes true, but it is, nevertheless true.

The struggle is great and incredibly real, but the necessity to seek the wisdom of God should always be our first and top priority. In all things, great and small.

Pray this #deaconThursday for those struggling to trust and seek God first. May that always be our default understanding and response; even in light of the most stressful and difficult of circumstances. Pray that church leadership would resist both the urge and temptation to talk and work through problems and challenges merely though man's solutions and perspectives. May God grant grace and wisdom as they seek His face in all they do as church and ministry to their congregation and community at large.

For the glory of God alone.

- PNC

There's a problem with a strong sense of self-awareness. Probably a few. And I guess, it's probably not so much a problem as it is, an ongoing struggle of realization, work and growth... repeatedly. 

It's the fact that while we hope and strive to be the best that we can be; not compared to others, but to what we know to do and to be who God has called us to be; yet knowing how badly we miss the mark. Royally miss.

Is it difficult to watch those in positions of influence and leadership fall and fail? Yes. And it's not the stuff that makes national news or spreads church-wide or even that which stays within the four walls of the home.

Goodness does not make perfection. It does however make plenty of room for improvement.

I'm not the greatest dad. Despite my youngest child's continual affirmation that I am... in her heart and mind. Yet, nothing hits harder than the moment where I realize that if I were watching myself from the outside, that "that moment" was not a "best Dad" moment.

And I think we do the same with pastors over every ministry, but especially with youth. The impressionable mind doesn't miss much, despite the parents understanding to the contrary.

"It's trash. You know it's trash. It was in your hand. How did you not throw it away?" (a recent conversation with a kid)

I think part of the appreciation that we find ourselves possessing for great leaders is knowing full well that they understand that greatness did not come overnight. It was a long process and it was significant amount of time and investment towards continual learning and improvement. Indeed, pride does go before a fall and those are the ones we often don't mind remaining low. However, humility is becoming and it's those leaders in which we desire to see overcome and rise again; greater and better than they were before.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that there would indeed be a humility about our lives, as we lead kids and young people, both in the faith and life as pastors at church and spiritual leaders at home. While pastors strive not to fail, pray that more importantly that would strive to never quit. May there be a grace and strength about their lives to walk in humility before God and walk in wisdom before those they lead. Pray that they would not be a source of frustration and struggle to youth, but rather a source of courage and power; that they are not defined by their faults and failures, but by who they are in Christ and what they accomplish for His glory with the talents He has given them and the calling He has placed on them.

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

- PNC

I got to thinking about the people that leaders surround themselves with, on a regular basis. You know this happens from time to time; we've prayed over this type of perspective numerous times, both with regards to associates as well as deacons and staff. What I find powerful, is that true leaders understand that they are not the smartest person in the room.

And while they may acknowledge that they are close to the front of the room; they realize too that they are the only ones... which provides affirmation that, like the rest of those, they still have room to grow, learn and improve. The improvement might be found in their field of expertise and wheelhouse of skills, or it's found in areas that they aren't so strong.

With that understand and perspective in mind then, great leaders are those who recognize the talent and skill of those around them; particularly those who may or may not be in positions of prominence or influence that aren't as "noticed" as much as the ones they themselves hold. It's the hierarchy of titles that we get held up on. Sadly. And frustratingly enough.

Surely, we've all been in positions where we looked at the "leader" above us and wondered what in the world they were thinking about a particular matter. But, like a good parent, great leaders should desire those under their influence, to go farther and achieve greater than what they have done and even yet to do.

Let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday to that end. Pray that associate pastors would continue to grow and strengthen, not only in their faith, but also in their skills. May they be ready and able to take on the responsibilities of ministries and churches as they grow and expand their influence and outreach. Pray for a preparation as God opens doors for the next generation of church planting and expansion. Pray that leadership would not be fearful or intimidated by the knowledge and talent of others in the room; but come alongside to help strengthen, and encourage them to be and do greater things.

For the kingdom of Heaven
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I posted a music video on a social media group page the other day, and while I missed some of the initial comments that followed, from the ones that remained ( I think a few got deleted, it seems), I could pick up that they were talking about when leaders or influencers have a moral failure. For the specifics of this post, they were talking about the band that I posted and the lead vocalist who had fallen.

But among the comments that followed, was one's opinion of how leadership needs to be held to a higher standard (which I agree with) and how they have but one shot in ministry. And that kind of troubled me. As if there is no room for grace. And even less room for restoration.

As I reflected on that mindset, I couldn't help but think of the leaders found in Scripture. If there is no grace, Samson doesn't get one last request to be used to display God's power. David's reign should be over after Bathsheba. Yes, there were great consequences, but today's political climate would require is immediate removal from office. Jonah dies in the fish if his heart does not change. Moses... pick a spot in his story where it should end earlier than it does.

Then there's Peter. Talk about a guy who shouldn't have gotten a second change a ministry. "Deny me before men and I will deny your before my Father in Heaven." Sorry, Peter. GAME OVER.

And yet, grace enters the picture and the process of restoration takes place. And Peter is never the same and obviously, the world is forever changed.

Even today, we discount ourselves and others from ever being eligible for a second chance. There will always be consequences; but God specializes in making beauty from ashes. Even when the ashes are our own doing... or undoing as the case may exist.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those struggling with the failures and mistakes that feel as though they are disqualified. May the Holy Spirit minister to them anew and afresh. Pray for those who dealing with actual consequences and difficult challenges that have threatened their position and influence within the church and community. Prayer for a spirit of repentance and humility; of brokenness before God. May their not be a hardness of heart, but a pouring out of the soul in order that God may work the miraculous. Pray for churches that are going through a healing process as well as the pastors and families that are going through a process of restoration. May grace abound, truth prevail and love conquer all.

For salvation itself is a second chance
As is sanctification as we are refined
By the power of God
And the work of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC

I sat in church this morning thinking about the seemingly insignificant.

Simple impacts.

It's amazing how the simplest of acts can have long-term impacts.
Or at least last for a more extended period of time that we think is normal.

And sometimes, that how life works. You don't know what will make the biggest impact. You don't know what will turn out to become the moment that is held as an example of effectiveness. You don't always see the hidden detail in the process that cranks up the efficiency factor.

Sometimes life is a matter of trial and error; where there is no "we have to have it all figured out before we step out". A learning curve requires movement down the road; otherwise you are just talking about it when you should be experiencing it. Most people don't have it all figured out. I certainly don't. And even when I do, life has a way of changing things up and if life doesn't, just wait a few more minutes... for God certainly might move things around.

Does God have great things in store for us? Absolutely. But they often follow our obedience on the simple. We shouldn't overlook the insignificant, if for the only reason that that is often where God does His best work.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that we would be faithful and obedient in the simple acts and words in the moments and times of opportunity where we can make a positive impact. Pray that God would give us wisdom and discernment to know what to do and say; when and to whom. May we not fear the unknown of the future, but live and walk in the power of the present.

For today is a gift.
Created by God
And we have been created to do good works
For His glory.

- PNC

So, here's my rhetorical question for the day. How many more reminders do we need thanks to the power of social media, to be reminded that someone is always looking. Perhaps you read or heard about the teacher who is now unemployed (I read that she resigned, but now, also saw a piece that she was fired). Either way, it was because of a social media post; an evil suggestion, written in the tone of political retribution with real-life, criminal consequences if someone were to follow through on it.

Whatever your political leaning, things like this are absolute craziness. As adults, we're always reading messages. And for youth and young people... they are always processing messages. They don't catch the sarcasm. They don't always understand the nuance; the satire. They don't always process the funny wrapped up in the truth, nor do they catch the profound that is buried behind the lie.

Communication is challenging enough. The timing of what is said. The understanding of what is not said. The approach matters almost as much as the content. The explanation matters as much as the intent. It's about what is heard as much as it is, what is said.

Communication is not for the faint of heart. Yet it is crucial for our survival. And if our identity and purpose is found in Christ, then it doesn't matter how many messages are shared that are wrong. If the message of God gets delivered wrong, then all other messages pail in comparison when it comes to making a life-changing impact.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would grant wisdom and discernment in the fullness of one's communication, both inside and outside of ministry. Pray that in the crucial moments that matter most; today's youth would understand both the message that God has for their life and the message that is being imparted to them by spiritual leaders and other authority figures in their life. May all of us be careful in choosing our words and the tones in which we speak.

For as ideas have consequences,
So do the messages that stem from them.
May ours reflect and glorify God.

- PNC

A couple of points worthy of revisitation, as I continue to ponder the word, associate.

It's a reflection of your environment. A complete picture, of your physical surroundings, the people in the space and the emotional and spiritual quality that can only be gauged by one's soul.

The buzz phrase of late, is that "you don't need that kind of negativity if your life."  And social media makes light of it, by highlighting a variety of scenarios... the person in your life who doesn't like coffee; or chocolate, or anything pumpkin spice. The friend who isn't geeked up by all things Disney or conversely, your favorite car brand. We make light of things quite frequently.

But then we consider the thing we survive and tolerate on a daily basis; that at every instance or occurrence steals from us. Perhaps it cuts out a slice of joy. Other times, it feels like a chink in the armor. It may not cut us to the core, nor to the quick, but it's a cut nonetheless.

Death by a thousand slashes may take a while, but death ensues regardless.

Churches have cultures and environments just like any other business and organization. And so do the pastors and boards who lead them. And so the people and places in which we position ourselves become crucial to both our health and our success. On a personal level. On a professional level. And yes, by all means, a ministerial level.

So, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would grant wisdom and discernment to pastors, regarding where they go and with whom they align and associate themselves. Pray that God would use them to be influencers and world-changers because they have been encouraged and spurred on to greater things and in kind, do the same for others around them. Pray also for grace; for churches and ministries where the tension is tight and the environment more stressful and disconcerting than what is normal and acceptable.

For we are not only products of our environments,
But creators of it as well.
As God created us
For His glory.

- PNC

It seems we're watching a dangerous trend recently. And by recently, admittedly, it's probably been the past number of years... maybe longer. We're witnessing an antagonism towards leadership that goes beyond personality differences and disagreements in direction. So great is the dichotomy, that it would seem there is a growing group hoping for the failure of leadership.

I disagree with how you are going about this decision or direction is no longer sufficient. We are witnessing attitudes, actions and statements that reveal the downright ruination of those in leadership and authority. Nowhere is this more apparent that in the political landscape, but we've watched in the business world for years and decades. In the battle of competition and market-share and the domination of a space within an industry, many have secretly and openly wished for the failure and downfall of their nemesis.

Now, I can only hope and pray that our churches are not seeing this, neither from their congregations nor the leadership. But I bring this topic of because I think the cracking of the door of this whole process as well as the animosity that results from the fall-out does rear it's ugly head within the church.

Leadership at every level certainly has its' faults and missteps; glaring mistakes and downright failures. It's understandable to a degree, for we are all human and for the believer, possess the understanding that we all fall short of the glory of God.

But once the crack has broken wide open, regardless of whether or not our hope for demise was secretive or public; we see people use the failure of a leader as justification to no longer trust that leader. And we take it one step further to make an argument against the bigger picture... the organization, the institution, the very foundation.

We take a flaw or bad result and use that as a basis to completely start over. And while there may be a time and place for doing so, that should not be our default rush to corrective action.

For in doing so, you may very well eliminate all the inherent good that does exist and never recover; because of the imbalance of our perspective, one runs the risk that they may never recreate the balance that the people before have striven to achieve.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would guard the hearts and minds of pastors as they lead their churches and ministries. Pray that their failures, defeats and mistakes would be few; not from a place of perfection, but as a deterrent for people to use that against them to bring to ruin their life and their ministry. Pray God would give them wisdom as they navigate these challenging times and vast variety of experiences and beliefs that they will encounter on any day of the week. Pray for discernment as the communicate, both on the street and from behind the pulpit. May their be engagement to speak the truth and to show love; for the two are inseparable.

For God does not call the qualified
But qualifies the called.
And Pastors do what they do;
Just like the rest of us.
By the grace of God
For His glory alone.

- PNC

I wonder sometimes just how often people encounter the same (or similar) set of circumstances and trials repeatedly, but for what essentially can be summed up as "the same lesson."

History does repeat itself. However, the way to change the story is to do things differently, the things that you wish had be done differently when it happened the first time or around (or previous times). That's how things get better. Otherwise, you continue to do the wrong thing and fight the same battle and endure the same struggle.

My long-held battle.... rest. Especially, well, I'll admit to recent weeks, but sadly, it's probably been a much longer struggle.

Lack of proper rest kills great effectiveness and strong efficiency. It is an incredible battle.

Responsibilities abound.
Tasks never end.
Relationships demand engagement.

And it's entirely possibly that self-interests can and do occupy an unhealthy amount of time and energy, which robs crucial time from proper rest that leads to greater effectiveness. In other words, procrastination is nobody's friend.

Thus, a body out of balance will run a very rough road and lead an even rougher life. And it won't solely be the fault of the road or of life... but largely on the person's ability to handle it, by taking care of their body, mind, spirit and soul.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would indeed, be people who would take greater care of our bodies, not only physically, but spiritually, mentally and socially as well. Pray that procrastination would far removed from our realm of temptation. Conversely, may we find balance, to find proper rest for the body as well as the soul; that we may get more accomplished not only for that which lies before us, but that for which God has purposed and created us. Pray God would help us to fulfill our destiny and all the more we steward our lives, as lived through the fullness of our beings.

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

- PNC

Parenthood:

The on call, 24/7 job from which you never retire.

It's amazing the potential that kids and youth have these days. So much so, that even in watching and hearing some of their stories, makes me wonder what I've been doing all these years! As if a couple too many have been somewhat wasted. It's not that I'm not grateful for what's transpired; the people I've shared my time with and the outcomes that have brought me thus far. But some days, "what if" looms large.

Take for instance, the story of Edison, which I was reminded of earlier today.

One day, his grade school sent home a note. His mother teared up, as he asked her to read it. She replied, that it stated that he was a genius. The school was too small to serve him well and she should teach him at home. Obviously the rest is history.

But is it? Years later, Edison found the note from that school. And as I mentioned a few days, it turns out parents lie to their kids for conversations they aren't ready to have after all. Fortunately, for the genius Edison, it paid off. The note actually stated that Edison as addled. The school was unable to teach him and they instructed he not return to class.

Wow.

We're in a day and age when "everyone" is seemingly concerned about the messages we are sending to our kids. And yet for all the concern, the messages are consistently inconsistent. And there is no greater reminder of that truth than a few day engaged in the laughter and stress of parenthood. And a few more after that, engaged in ministry.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that pastors would be among those who would deliver consistent messages. Consistent with the truth of God's Word. Consistent with the mission and values of their local church community. Pray they partner with parents who are working to raise kids who fear and honor God with their lives and in their homes. May God work the miraculous in the lives of those who are in difficult places; where they may be at a crux intersection, like Edison's mom stood one afternoon.

While they enemy has already tried to ruin the child,
Christ bids them to come.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

God is on our side, obviously. Although, sometimes, it doesn't feel so obvious. For pastors as much as believers.
 A
Conversely, though... just how frequent are the days where it feels as if nobody is fighting for us? There is not one who is stepping up for our defense, standing in the gap and acting as an advocate on our behalf. What do we do then?

Hopefully, we do the very thing that King David did!

He encouraged Himself in the Lord.

Was David tired? Exhausted? Burnt out? Frustrated? Stressed? Anxious? Absolutely, in fear of his life? All of the above at various times. And also, very "out of line" with some of his decisions. But he had a resilient faith and a heart towards God.

And he didn't wait for someone to come along side and help him get through the difficult places and overwhelming circumstances. That's not to say he didn't have those people at times. But when they were no where to be found, he didn't sit there waiting for them either.

So, let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that when it's one and God, pastors would remain steadfast. Pray pastors would be renewed and strengthened, even in the days and times when no one comes alongside to help in the moment. Pray that they would not lose heart, but stand resolute in the face of opposition and obstacles. Pray the overwhelming and insurmountable would diminish, as they continue to place their trust and call on the name of Lord their God.

For even when they stand alone and advocate for themselves,
God is near and present; fighting on their behalf
As close as the mention of His name.

- PNC

I've recently been informed that a true man admits when they are wrong.

Of course, it's not "new" information, and yes, thus far, I've withheld my sarcastic response, as the comment was directed towards a current political problem and not me directly. However, I am taking it to heart and acknowledging as such here and now.

I so relate to Paul. This is my biggest struggle. And it's not eternally-heavy issues, but it's the frustrating things of adulthood that keep from living a blessed, prosperous and effective life.

"The things I know to do, I don't. And the things I don't want to do; I continue to do." 

What's this have to do with ministry?  Because I got to thinking about the burden pastors carry; about how much they desire to do for others; to share the Gospel, to make disciples, to lead the church to go out and do the same and to change their communities with the love of Christ for the glory of God.

And they can't do it all. They can't personally meet every need. They can't respond to every request. They can't pray with every person, nor make every visit. The time, energy and money simply doesn't solely exist in their life to solve every problem. Yet, if wishing made it so, an overwhelming majority of pastors would be fight to be first in line. Simply because that's where there heart lives. Not first in line for their own benefit; but to fill the gap of someone who can't get to the front of the line or doesn't feel worthy to stand at the front of the line.

Some people can't stand pastors and church leadership.
I can't help but stand in admiration while simultaneously convicted.

For the handful of things that are out of balance in my life; why would God use me? And while I'm fully aware that many pastors would acknowledge they have their own list of things that are out of balance, they continue to position themselves to desire to be used by God all the more. The question of why still hovers at times, in their lives as well.

I think it's a sign of both an active, yet troubled faith. For we know to press on; but doubt says don't bother.

And we're back to Paul's struggle. Shoulda, coulda, woulda, done this and not that. But alas, here I am. Which is really the only response God cares about when He calls for us. Not all the stuff, not all the excuses. Just as we are, where we are.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors struggling with wanting to do more in their ministry, and yet resources, in whatever form they are needed, are lacking. Pray that God would give them wisdom, to steward their time, people and resources properly. Pray for an obedient spirit that would not be so focused on simply doing the most good, but meeting the need to which God has specifically directed them to take care of at that moment. May God continue to raise up people within the church, who will surround them and support them in the ministries and outreaches in which they engage the community and the world. Pray also, for proper balance; to take care of what needs to be done and not become so distracted that the days pass, filled with meaningless moments.

Stronger and better; not because of ourselves,
But by who we are in Christ
To do what He has called us to do
For the glory of God.

- PNC