Broken Boards

We would like to think that decision makers get along. Conversations go well. Problems are solved reasonably and through the process of informed debate. Tension levels remain low and a spirit of cooperation and "level-headed" behavior dominates the room.

Sadly, this is more the exception than the rule. It's not that its not possible, its just that great decisions are usually the result of great debate; where all scenarios, ideas and potential problems have been thoroughly discussed.

However, when the process breaks down and agendas are pushed harder than pursuing the best possible outcome, when open and honest communication is discouraged for fear of offense and retribution; where warning signs of trouble spots are denied...failure becomes not only possible, but inevitable. Last night, something quickly flashed across my brain...what happens in churches when board members and decision makers encounter problems that begin to dominate meetings rather than produce more effective and efficient ministry? You may not have been in the meeting, but at some point and time, you have no doubt witnessed events in a church, where clearly, something broke behind closed doors, among decision makers. 

So we pray on this #deaconThursday, for decision makers, administrators and church staff...that their influence and input into the operation, direction and vision of their church would remain aligned with God's Word. Pray that honesty and truth, even when unpleasant, would dominate conversations and positively impact decisions as they are considered. Pray for grace and correction, for situations that have resulted from bad decisions within the church and from leadership positions. Pray against the advancement of personal agendas within the body of Christ; that church life would exemplify the advancement of the kingdom of God and His righteousness. May unity be the underlying current, even in difficult circumstances and disagreeable conversations...pray that the Devil is unsuccessful in his attempts to use such opportunities to divide, destroy and ultimately conquer any church community.

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