Attrition Warfare

After writing yesterday's post on retention and attrition before walking out the door to church, I couldn't help but consider the primary defintion of attrition. Perhaps a confimation that I was on the right path mentally, for the past couple of weeks, our Sunday series has been reflecting on the person of Christ as seen in the Christmas carols. As I listened about how Christ' birth was anything but calm and bright, I was reminded once again, that life often is a spiritual attack.

We talk about situations and circumstances as a part of normal life; everybody goes through rough and difficult times and this stuff "just happens". We can't control it (or at least not all of it), but we can control our response.

While there is a great deal of truth in that, attrition is how the enemy of our souls works.

It's called "attrition warfare"... a strategy taken, through "the action or process of gradually reducing the strength or effectiveness of someone or something through sustained attack or pressure."

This is how life has felt for the past number of months... perhaps even a bit longer. As isolated circumstances, most of it probably isn't much to worry about, except that each time there's a chip and a dent and another layer of fortitude and determination that takes a hit.

I'm thankful for the encouragement of friends, who come along side and stand in the agreement of prayer to lift up members of the body of Christ and ask "what's going on".

Our pastors need those same interactions. If the enemy is trying to take out the "every day believer" with this strategy, imagine how much harder he is working to wear and tear down pastors. And obviously, with 1500-1700 leaving because of burnout, it's working.

So, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors, particularly who are feeling the effects, of the strategy of attrition warfare. Pray for those feeling weekend and battle-worn; may they be strengthened and encouraged by the power of the Holy Spirit and the comfort of people coming alongside in support. Pray the power of agreement in prayer, that God would indeed be in the midst of two or three, gathered in His name. May they be refreshed and rejuvenated in their spirit and renewed in their mind through the washing of the Word of the God. Pray a release of oppression and frustration, just in having the opportunity to confess the struggle and pain they have encountered and endured that are seemingly beating them down. May God do a great work, in their hearts and minds, even this day as you agree in prayer with me.

A watershed moment; 
A turning point in the battle...
For victory is mine, says the Lord
Who accomplishes His good will
In our lives as He sees fit
All things for His glory, for those who love Him.
Called according to His purpose.

- PNC

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