Bad Roots

I caught part of an interview on the radio yesterday where the guest was describing a major problem happening in a major metropolitan city. His solution, was pretty much applying a concept that had already worked in another problem that had faced the city a few years ago and worked out quite well. So, we was pretty much asking, why can't we do that regarding this matter?

As he continued the discussion, and some of the challenges and difficulties that he is encountering in the conversations he is having, he essentially summed it up like this (and I'm paraphrasing)

The problem, is pretty simple for those willing to see it. And here is a workable solution, if we can get people on board. It's the deep rooted problem of who's responsible for the problem, and who should take the lead on fixing the problem and what policies stand in the way of fixing it.

It didn't take long for me to think about how true this is for churches... that burnout occurs because various pastors recognize problems and present reasonable solutions and yet can't seem to make any progress in correcting the situation because of underlying roots and systemic dysfunction from within the church.

In fact, that was exactly this guests' point. Eventually, not gaining ground on this problem, he admitted will cause him to lose hope in the city and those in the region that are contributing to this problem... for indeed, it is negating much of the incredible progress that they are making elsewhere.

So, on this #associatePastorTuesday, will you agree with me in prayer? Pray against a spirit of discouragement and despair for those situations where pastors are having difficulty correcting problems and situations because of the roots that have entangled people. May God do a healing work in hearts and lives and whatever strongholds have occurred that stand in the way of a healthy and functioning church body. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they navigate these conversations, and work to implement solutions towards the problems they face.

That God would accomplish the miraculous
As we allow Him to work through
The negative things that have taken root.
Stronger and whole
For the glory of God.

- PNC