I am so grateful for friendship. There was a time in my life when I didn't have many. And worse, wasn't sure that I ever would have many. Yet it amazes, how God uses events in our lives as well as people to bring us to places of insight and understanding.

I thought about this yesterday, as I reflected on yesterdays prayer and Sundays' message. I took the opportunity to pray with a couple of guys, as service was coming to a close; my second friend having had a particularly hard week. In a quick moment of what I can only believe was a prompting of the Spirit, was the difference between the state of our heart and our mind regarding our faith.

As I prayed for my friend, the thought process developed. We stand strong in our faith; our heart belongs to God and we believe in Him with all of what is within us. The mind however; likes moving us. Worse; it likes moving in every other direction.

It's a attack of the enemy, really. To detour. To derail. To destroy. Mentally, if we can get distracted; if we can get distracted for long periods of time... what if scenarios start playing out, why did I do this, why didn't I do that; we being to wander, wonder and waiver with possibilities and the outcomes thereof until an alternate reality exists. Albeit a mental reality, we are way off base. And mentally, nowhere near where and what God has in store for us... most likely.

I remember my college days. You know what's in your heart; but mentally, it's easy to start justify things that have no place in the life of the believer. Yet, eventually, the possibility exists that your mind can lure you away and take your heart with it and you have to recognize that while your mind is not focused on God, your heart is also not near His. That usually spells trouble. It's usually accompanied by all sorts of spiritual red flags, that are worth heeding sooner, rather than later.

We all struggle with it. The heart is willing. The flesh is weak. The mind, a traveler.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors facing this battle. They are not alone. It's happened in my life; turns out my prayer with my friend, was accurate, not because of me, but because of the work God desires to accomplish in His life. Pray that their heart would remain passionate for the things of God. Pray God would guard their mind; from being lured away into thoughts that would distract; from scenarios and possibilities that cause worry and anxiety. May their heart remain pure. May their mind remain focused. Pray for synchronicity, that both their heart and mind would be in tune with the heart and mind of God; to follow His direction; to seek His face; to hear from Heaven; to move in the promptings of the Holy Spirit. Pray the enemy would be unsuccessful in his attempts to distract, derail, detour and destroy our pastors and church leaders.

Passionate hearts.
Fortified minds.
For things of God.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Why pray for pastors?

Because life is becoming increasing complex; difficulties await around every corner.

For the church, people have so much weighing upon their hearts and minds; burdens, challenges and in the midst of sorting through it all... wrong advice, wrong counsel, wrong biblical teaching, wrong theology. Perhaps not entirely wrong, but incomplete or inaccurate.

I couldn't help but continue to pray for Pastor Noble and his church, that we prayed over yesterday. The decisions that team of pastors now face; the aftermath that congregation now must endure; the impact this situation will make on their community, as well as it's greater impact thanks to the internet and social media... doing the right thing and handling difficult decisions in the right manner and proper perspective is already a delicate process without the flood of public opinion in real time.

Much of the comments I've read on this particular situation are well intended and I can already understand why the church felt the need to release the details of the situation that they did; yet I understand the concerns of those making comments. Meanwhile, it appears the decision makers have followed the biblical mandate for handling situations like this.

It doesn't leave one in the position to say much more than can simply be stated with love and compassion.

This church, this pastoral team, this community and the church-at-large.. we need prayer. It needs to be our first concern. It needs to be our first response. It needs to be our first decision. Whether a decision-maker, observer or commentator; whether directly affected or affected from a distance, it begins and ends with the power of prayer.

So, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, first and foremost, may God be glorified in this situation. From the handling of this circumstance and the decisions that follow; to the conversations that people have as they work through their faith and understanding, may their be a spirit of grace and compassion that this is both a difficult and delicate place for the Noble family and this church. Pray for the decisions this pastoral team faces moving forward; may the continue to seek the face of God and follow Biblical principles as they proceed in ministry. Pray for the Noble family; healing and restoration; beauty from ashes and strength from fear... may the Holy Spirit do a new work; a fresh outpouring as they commit this matter and their marriage to God anew and afresh.

Grace. Greater than ALL our sins.
Life has no situation to present to God
That cannot be impacted by His Presence
Through the power of prayer.

- PNC

Perhaps, even unsettled is too strong of a word to describe places in life that are most likely caused by ambition. Life isn't bad; certainly not horrible. Things seem to be going well, at least by comparison to where one once was or what they have gone through. However, it's the gnawing, sometimes borderline nagging, feeling that there is something more in store; whether in another time or at another place may remain unknown, but there's a sense that were you are is not where you are meant to stay.

There is a purpose. There is a calling. There is an anointing. And yet the timing and placement of events, people and locations all work together to create experiences in our lives. Our reactions to those experiences are often the driving forces in thinking that there is "more" to this life than what we are doing.

So while you don't find yourself in a hurried frenzy to make dramatic changes in your life, there comes a time of acknowledgement where you start processing and making attempts to figure out what changes can be made, as well as where and when and how. It's a balance of quiet steadfastness, in the confidence and reliance upon God that you are where you are for now with good reason while trusting and seeking His face as the unsettled-ness begins asking "what's next?".

Whatever the situation, the agitation of this internal conflict can take it's toll. Ambition makes one excited about the prospects of change; constraints of reality makes one question many things regarding feasibility.  When the conflict begins to cloud judgement and interfere with current responsibilities, you know you are on shaky ground, as you could potentially put both reality and the desired reality at risk; which is unhealthy.

So, pray this somewhat abstract #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors experiencing this eternal conflict. Whether it be specific to ministry, or perhaps a balancing act between their place in secular market versus ministry, pray for a calming in their spirit. May there be a clarion sense of direction and purpose; where such seem elusive to them. Pray for a steadfast confidence as they continue to carry out current duties and responsibilities and that there would a be strengthening in them, as they continue. Pray for an increased reliance and trust in God, as they seek His face and pray His will regarding their lives and circumstances. May their human ambition not rush in ahead; but a Godly ambition would take over. Pray the Holy Spirit would lead and guide them, as they patiently wait upon the Lord; faithfully working and serving in the place He has positioned them... for however long the season lasts.

Not seeking the applause of man;
Unsettled for glory of God.

- PNC

It didn't occur to me until later in the evening last night, that today's topic was much like an episode of my favorite television show... again. In an episode titled, Angel Maintenance, (Angel, being the codename for Air Force One) the indicator light does not turn on for wheels down, so the pilots are unsure if they are able to land. So of course, it's already been an incredibly long flight; and now they are trying to figure out ways to get help, either in the sky or near the ground, to figure out if the wheels are down.

Of course, in the meantime, staffers are having conversations, trying to figure out what would cause this in the first place; the consensus being that sometimes lights just don't work.

On the other hand... mine work. Two personal vehicles with indicator lights on the dashboard both being lit... and if that weren't enough, a work vehicle yesterday, decided to turn on it's check engine light. Which got me thinking...

Sometimes there are problems, that remain unknown until they can be checked out. The problem can be discussed and debated at length, but until someone actually digs in and starts looking around, all you can really do is guess. With all the guessing, however, you have to be prepared that it might not be what you think. You could very well be wrong about the matter. Situations and circumstances seemingly point you in one direction, based on symptoms as they become noticeable, but until you take a more thorough look...

Taking a more thorough look itself requires more work. More analysis. More conversations. More study. Problems and potential problems needed to be sorted through and it's time consuming and exhausting. It's all necessary, if you plan on things continuing to go well.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors facing situations that are unclear. Where there are indicators of problems and potential problems, and they need guidance and wisdom for Heaven as to what to do and how to resolve them. Pray for discernment and understanding in the conversations that take place and information that comes to light. Pray for details to be sorted out and that nothing would be missed or overlooked in their endeavors. May their be a faithfulness in their stewardship, as they look over and care for the affairs of the church and the ministries therein. May their not be a spirit of confusion or darkness, or fear of the unknown about their lives; but confident God will show them the way the should go and light the path before them.

Wisdom to resolve.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

First things first... my sincerest apologies that you weren't reading this 12 hours ago, as you should have been able to do. That said, what we'll leave the reasons for that being the case where they belong...13 hours in the past.

That said, I was thinking yesterday (and perhaps I've brought this up before or similar), but Associate seems like an interesting title for pastors. We've talked about Senior Pastor and Executive Pastor and a slew of "new" titles we've made for such positions with specific areas of focus within ministry and the church. But like the business world, we don't place a formal second-in-command title, like Vice President; Vice Chairman or the like. There's a Lead and then every one else... or so it seems at times.

And while the work of an "Associate" is important, whether in the law firm, sales or ministry, it also connotes a lot of work without a great deal of recognition. Grunts. And the work that goes along with. Sure the work and the tasks that go into can be menial and trivial and a host of other adjectives, but that doesn't negate their needing to be accomplished and fulfilled. They do (or should) play into the greater pieces of the puzzle that help form the big picture vision.

However, when all the work goes unrecognized, it's easy to slip in states that are not beneficial; for the body, mind and psyche, let alone the physical environment in which you find yourself as well as those people who are in your circle of influence.

All of us have those circles. People who speak into your life. People who you should be speaking life into. And when we get too focused on the work (regardless of its' importance; even in light of eternity) rather than the people we set out to make things better, we lose the long-term vision for what we have set out to accomplish and why.

Thus, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that pastors would be strengthened and renewed; reminded of the fact they are important to the ministry and the work of Jesus Christ for the Kingdom of God. May the be encouraged that their accomplishments matter; that their time is valuable; their input, wisdom, experience and knowledge are priceless. Pray that the lies of the enemy would fade, as the truth is illuminated anew and afresh, of their place within the body of Christ. May God accomplish the miraculous in their lives, that whatever they put their hand to, would prosper, both within the church and outside the four walls.

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

- PNC

I'm really now sure where this idea came from yesterday, so let's unpack it together and see what it looks like. Usually, when we think about burnout, as if one was suffering from a "stress-induced hazed", it often comes from a long-period of having done too much; over-worked and under-paid, they've had too many irons in the fire and have worn themselves done to nothing; having spent tons of effort simply trying to maintain, let alone stay ahead of the curve.

Yet, what happens to the irons in the fire that don't get tended to often enough? What happens in the kitchen, when there is not activity, for whatever is on the stove-top. Sure there are times you can step away for a moment, but cooking, like pastoring, isn't one of those things you can set it and forget it and hope it won't burn. If you aren't in there, moving things around in the pan; making sure that nothing comes out over-cooked and burnt to a crisp, then don't be surprised if that's exactly what happens.

Whatever you were making will be unrecognizable.
The aftermath, for whoever has clean-up duty, will also be unbearably frustrating.

I'm not advocating that pastors should be running all around, in a frenzied-flurry of activity, nor that the should be making drastic changes in their life on a frequent basis to keep "changing things up". Conversely, though, to sit in that position with all it entails and not have a plan of engagement; to show activity and progress; to move things around and make things work... you could easily find yourself burnt simply from sitting in one place of intensity; which ministry has always been and forever will remain.

So, once again, we discover life is about balance. One will find themselves just as ineffective from having done very little as if they had taken on way too much and couldn't manage it all. Sadly, both extremes exists in ministry, as it does in life. In trying to bring this to a close, it just occurred to me, how we often referring to the testing and trials of our faith; for even Scripture talks about us being refined by God, as by fire. Yet he moves in our lives. There is activity in our faith. We don't sit in one place; we don't battle with just one area for a pro-longed time. There are challenges at home, on the job, in the community, with family, friends and enemies. God is not trying to burn us to destroy us, but to perfect us. While it may feel as though we are being over-cooked, God's timing is perfect. He has not left the kitchen of our lives and forgotten about us.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday for those on the verge of burnout. Whether it be from a difficult challenge that has gone on for too long with no progress or too much activity to stay on top of and manage well, pray for strength as their day progresses. May God grant to them fresh insight and revelation as to what they should do and how they should go about it getting it done. Pray their conversations and actions would be effective; that they would seek and receive the help and assistance they need. May frustration and angst not get the better of their attitude, nor their spirit; but that they would remain focused on Christ... placing their trust in God, anew and afresh, the author and finisher of our faith. Pray they would be used of God, in greater capacity as they submit to Him; that it will all come together in the end, as the Refiner's fire purifies and perfects within them, the image of Christ... just as He works to accomplish the same in the life of every believer.

Tried and tested,
Not burnt beyond recognition,
But served ready for His purpose.
For His glory.

- PNC

 

For whatever reason, I'm not really sure, I keep finding myself throughout the day, for the past few days, singing Petra's song Open Book. It talks about our life unfolding, with each passing day and our life being an Open Book before God. He knows what's in the next line, "will I stand or do I fall?" It's our recognizing that as we read between the lines of our life, we recognize it's His love that binds us.

The part that keeps standing out on the forefront however, is the following stanza:

"Cover to cover, Lord you know me
And what I want to be.
As You read the pages of my heart
Please tell me what you see."

We know God looks at the heart, while man looks at the cover of man.
We know many heroes of the faith knew the condition of their heart... just look at King David.
Scripture says God know intimately about us, the hairs on our heads being numbered.
He knows what we have need of, before we even ask or think.

And yet, these lyrics inquire of the Lord...

"What do you see when you look at what's written on my heart?"

While that answer will be different for each of us, depending on our place along the journey of faith, it's incredible to know that God is writing an epic piece of literature with our lives; using what the enemy of our souls meant to destroy us for His glory.

And in a similar vein of thought, as we prayed yesterday for pastors struggling in ministry because of difficulties in having a healthy ability of loving their self, I couldn't help but wonder about pastors; struggling with what is written on their heart; and what God is dealing with them personally, as He continues to work on each of us, to create us anew, to take on the image of Christ with each passing day.

What is He rewriting for His glory?
What direction is He taking with the twist and turns of life?
What will He map out in our life as we seek His face for which way we should go when the light goes green?

Consider this:

God has laid out His life; His story, as an Open Book for us to read.
We can not grow in the knowledge, fear and admonition of the Lord while keeping the book of our heart and life closed towards Him.

(I had to smile, just then, as I reread that... I can hear my pastor in my mind, stating what He often does in His messages: "Whenever you read the Word of God, it reads you.")

And it's so incredibly true. You can not read God's Word without God reading your heart, shedding light to the "what's next" area of focus, whereby He will work on us, that we may become and appear more like Christ.

So, join me, this #associatePastorTuesday, as we pray for pastors experiencing difficulty with the work God is doing on them personally, in their heart, mind and spirit. Pray for those having trouble with what God is revealing as He reads the pages of their heart; perhaps not knowing how to deal with what is coming to the forefront or not being able to come to a resolution of what and how to change. Pray for their to be a genuine renewing of the mind, as they read and study God's Word. May their be fresh illumination into the character of God and the person of Jesus Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray the fear that prevents us all from allowing God full access to our hearts would be removed; the barricades set aside; that God would have free reign on Earth, as He does in Heaven.

What the enemy has meant for destruction,
May God bring to new life through restoration
By the blood of Jesus Christ
With the power of the Holy Spirit
Our lives, an incredible story...
Authored by God Himself.

- PNC

I think we've all been here. You find yourself in situations and circumstances; places of decision or at least, decisions on the horizon... you are trying to figure things out and you look at time, resources and finances all while thinking, this should work.

On paper, we should be okay. It looks like it will be okay. It will be challenging, but seriously, this should work. Upon execution though... this doesn't seem to be working. What's missing? What's is going on or happening that is wrong, that is causing this to feel like it is not quite working... as it seems on paper, it should.

It's not always a matter of contentment either, as in we need more for the mere sake of we don't have enough.  Life does get to a place where "almost" doesn't quite cover all the bases and what you have has reached the end of its ability to stretch... or so it seems.

The planning; the strategizing, the conversation... for all the details and you find yourself scratching your head thinking... "I don't know what to do."

It happens across the board when it comes to life. For long term decisions. For short term planning. And I understand, sometimes you just have to step out and see what works and what doesn't and if it requires you to come back to the table and re-evaluate, then that's what you have to do. The list of things for which people had to go back to the drawing board, because of the gap between the plan on paper and the implementation of the plan with tools and resources in hand would require it's own library to house the volume of books.

Consider the great Thomas Edison... who thanks to the internet, who knows what the actual number is in this quote...

"We now know 1,000 ways NOT to make a light bulb." Along the way to finding the solution, he and team found plenty of ideas and plans and implementation of plans that ended up being the exact opposite of a working solution. (I know... how much of a solution can it be, if it doesn't work?) Well, used an an example of what NOT to do, the solutions that didn't work, did bring clarity and direction to the project, as ultimately, they figured it out.

I pondered these thoughts yesterday, as I considered the decisions of pastors... short-term game; long-term plans. The frustration of "why isn't this working quite right" gets intense after a period of time (and not a long one at that) And if it's bothersome in everyday life, on personal matters as well as in business; how much more on plans that impact eternity?

Pray with me, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors facing challenging decisions; for circumstances where the plan and it's implementation are not coming together as it seems they should. For those that can't figure out what is amiss; for what things may need to be changed; if there is a lack of resources, skills or funding... may God grant to them wisdom and insight as to how they should proceed. Regardless of the severity of the matter, may their be a peace and patience as they walk through the process. May their be a calming of the hearts and minds as conversations take place and the work ensues; that God holds everything in His hand and that He is and will provide for all they have need of. May they remain steadfast in placing their trust in Him; in seeking His face; confident in the provision from the hand of Almighty, Father God.

Enough... for He is all we need.
For His glory and honor, we pray.

- PNC

This continues to blow me away, every single time it happens. So much so, I wondered shortly thereafter why I feels like I don't get clarity on other matters and decisions like I do when it comes to this site.

A conversation with God went like this yesterday.

ME: Lord, what would have for tomorrow's prayer, because I have not a clue.
God: There it is.
ME: There WHAT is?
God: You. Not having a clue.
ME: You want me to write about not having a clue.
ME: What does one even write about, without having a clue?
God: You don't think I've had this conversation with pastors and church leadership?
ME: Right.

It amazes me and humbles me at the same time, how much of this life we try to do on our own. Wisdom, experience, insight, strength, charisma, intellect... you name it, we'll attempt it. Sadly acknowledging we need God's help on the matter after we've fouled the ball and made a navigating a difficult situation downright dicey.

Coming to God sometimes seems like coming to your earthly father. You can imagine the look on God's face, shaking His head... "how in the world did you manage to do that?" as you both stand there and look at the mess now needing to be sorted out and corrected.

If only, we didn't rely on us, nearly so much.

Pastor stated Sunday morning a profound truth: Too many Christians can pass the spiritual-sobriety test. We are not full of the Holy Spirit as the 120 were in the upper room, as told in the book of Acts. We are not under the influence of the Spirit, but rather, walking on our own power and working through our own ability. And what's cool about God, is the depth of His character.

Think about how much spouses continue to learn about each other, even after 30, 50 and 70 years of marriage. The strong ones, never tire of getting to know another aspect of their beloved. Thus, so it should be with God. Pastor explained Sunday why we spend a year in a sermon series going through just one book of the Bible at a time; why we are on part 40-something of the book of Mark, for example. The depth and richness of Scripture, requires us to dig deep. But not a shovelful at a time, but like an archeological dig. For the finer discoveries. And as we do, Scripture reveals in us, its' own "finer discoveries". Each of which, point us back to the truth that none of us have a clue in this life; and getting a clue starts and ends with the person of Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for Pastors standing at crossroads. Where direction and wisdom is needed; where they don't have a clue as to what they should do and say in the situations they face. Pray they would not rely on their own wit and wisdom, their experience or understanding; but lean solely on Christ. May they boldly approach the throne of grace and seek the counsel of the Holy. Pray the truth and richness of Scripture would come alive to them; even this day... that God would reveal Himself anew and afresh; granting to them a clarity of perspective. May God calm the unrest and stress, as perhaps they have tried to figure things out on their own; pray a covering of grace and forgiveness for such moments when human thinking as led before God's.

May they have more than a clue;
With a greater understanding of God
Through the person of Jesus Christ
And the knowledge and application of His Word.
For His glory.

- PNC

I continue to be blown away, as I go about my day simply open to what God would connect, as I think about a million different things. Some of it personal life. Some of it perspective on the world around me. Time in prayer. Thoughts about church life and leadership as it pertains to this blog. And yesterday afternoon, still having no idea for what you are about to read, something triggered in the terminology "Pastoral Care" ministry. About 2 seconds later, the connection was made. So often, in an Associate role, a pastoral post exists within a church, for a "care" ministry. Home visits, hospital visitations, family situations and those in dire circumstances and situations where they find themselves in need of help in some way.

So, what do we call those who care for pastors?

Is the body of Christ more interested in coming to church to be a consumer rather than a contributor?

(I should almost quit right there and start typing the prayer... which if I knew what it was already)

Sorry; not sorry if that question stung for a moment. But seriously people... there are many factors for pastors and missionaries burning out.

Marital problems, because nobody is covering their marriage in prayer like we ask for ours.
Kids in trouble... because: no prayer
Financial difficulties... because: I give enough. God will provide for them.
No friends... they have lots of friends; plus I'm not "in their circle"
Criticism... should I be offended?
Attendance... if only our schedules weren't so packed, we'd be at church more often.

Maybe if you were in church more often, the schedules would come into alignment. We keep forgetting and returning; like a broken cycle... the reminder:

Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness AND all these things shall be given to you. 

We don't seek the kingdom to get the blessing. But there is a blessing that comes by keeping "the things" of life secondary to the kingdom of God and taking a stand for righteousness.

Easy to say. Fairly easy to do. Right up until you get out of bed. Then it will be the challenge of the day. Not the hardest thing of the day. But it will be the battle that lasts all day, because if you can go all day not having sought God; then you are one step further away. Which is the plan, by the way... to distract, detour and derail your life. And the life of Pastors and those in ministry everywhere.

Thus, we pray this #associatePastorTuesday... that God would work in the hearts and minds of congregations to do a better job caring for their pastors. Pray that there would be rising up of support for our pastors and church leaders, in times when the number of Christian leaders willing to take a stand for righteousness is on the decline. Pray for a boldness to preach the whole counsel of God and a compassion to meet people at their point of need; not in condemnation, but in love... that cares too much let people remain as they are. Pray for marriages, families, finances and friendships... that pastors would be strengthened in the challenges they face outside the pulpit and the four walls of the church. May they sense, even today, a love and support from the body of Christ; as you join with me and other readers in sharing and joining our mission... to #pray4pastors daily.

Caring for Pastors through the avenue of prayer.
Believing God will work the miraculous; bringing them back from the brink of burnout.
For the glory of God and His righteousness.
May it be done on earth, as we seek first, His kingdom.

- PNC

I love driving. Traffic I can handle. Knucklehead drivers are short-lived, for paybacks are rough. Yesterday morning, though, I think I nearly came to a breaking point. The morning started out a little rough, quickly got a more frustrating, then the headache started. When I thought it was over, it turns out 20 minutes later, there was one more "you've got to be kidding me" moment. Sure enough... it was Monday alright.

Major construction zones involving a major freeway shutdown between to other freeways (even if it is only one direction) does not mix well with morning rush-hour traffic.

Not on any day ending in -"day", let alone Mondays. I was not happy.  So much so, that at 8.19am, I texted a friend.

"I am so ready to go home."

Barely two hours into the day.  Later in the day, I told a guy I felt like I had had a birthday... as if the frustration of the morning's events had actually aged me. I should have my kids count the gray hairs in my gotee and we could keep a runny tally. That counts for some math homework, doesn't it?

Okay Conlin. Make the connection.

In my moment of angst, I realized what was happening. People were so concerned, like I was about avoiding the back-ups, that we started looking for other routes. Of course, there's only so many places you can go, so with everyone having the same idea, we all quickly found ourselves where we didn't want to be... part of a bigger back-up. So thinking it's not worth the hassle, you figure out what to do next. Then thinking you might be okay and can make up some time, perhaps you inadvertently make a wrong turn... too late now. You're gonna have to ride this out for a moment before you can correct it. And of course the correction takes a few more minutes. Plus... still more traffic. We've all been there. There's usually someone in the seat next to you offering a map or your GPS is chiming it's favorite word: "Recalculating".

Next thing you know... is this how the nation of Israel felt for 40 years?

You try to make the best and the most of difficult situations only to discover your solutions aren't really all that great. In fact, in the short term, they lead to greater headaches. In the end, they turn out to be not much of a solution.... at least not without some finesse and "tweaking". No matter how much experience you've picked up during your travels of this life and the roads there, you've quickly learned as I have (and was reminded again) that hindsight is 20/20. Which is all the more reason, no matter what the circumstances, we continually, daily, constantly call out to God, seek His face, ask for what we have need of and praise Him while we trust in Him. No matter what the distractions, detours and the frustrations; may prompt in us and cause us to react. The traffic will cease. Eventually.

Join us, this #associatePastorTuesday... that there would be a peace and a presence in the lives of our pastors, that speaks volumes to the truth that God is not caught off guard by those things meant to distract, detour and derail them. May their spirits be lifted above the noise and confusion; may their focus be clear; their purpose united. May the cares of life not consume their minds, or weigh their hearts, but that they would draw nearer to God; casting their cares on Him, for He cares for them. Pray the stress subsides and the storms will calm.. the traffic will clear and the days will get better.

For the glory of God. By the power of the Holy Spirit. For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Have you ever had someone ask you to do something, but left it entirely up to you as to how to get it done?

Part of it's exciting You have ideas, you figure something out, it looks like it's coming together.

Then at some stage, the person comes to check on the progress of the task. You know what's coming, right? The opening line to what is probably about to change your mood.

"Why don't you..."

If it happens in your marriage, it's about to throw a monkey-wrench in your Saturday.
If it happens on the job, the wrench could last a little longer.

You've been given a directive without directions.

Well, technically, there were directions. Or ideas for directions... they just came later. After you started without them. And the directions somehow, usually aren't clear as they should be. As my pastor who updated his social media status last night discovered. Two graduate degrees from seminary, yet the instructions to the toy grocery stand for his kid to play with has now earned the title of "greatest academic challenge".

Interestingly enough, this is how life feels many times with God. He has something for us to do, yet sometimes, not much illumination other than the first step in front of us. Sometimes, not even that. Hence the famous last words...

"Step out in faith."

Then, after a time where we feel like Israel wondering in the desert again, God says..."you know, if you did...." Thanks God. Where was that when started this thing?

Life seems to have a fogged over or frosted windshield as we travel, while the rear-view mirror is clear crystal. If only they were switched. Foresight should be 20/20 and hindsight frosted over. There's less regret when it's harder to see it, making it harder to remember.

But for all that, God has a plan. He can be trusted. And while it may only be one step at time, He will direct our steps and illuminate our paths. As frustrating as it may seem at times. He is faithful.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors struggling with the directives and the directions (or lack thereof) that they may be facing or experiencing today. May their faith be strengthened; their commitment to seek God first renewed. Pray the frustration of the moment would subside; that their would be a calming of their spirit as they refocus their efforts to wait on God for what is next, in whatever decisions need to be made in circumstances they find themselves. Pray for a clarion call... this is the way of the Lord. May the windshield be cleared; the path made straight; a new-found confidence in God and His promises.

He who is faithful, who began a good work in you, is faithful to complete it.
May your regrets along the way be few.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I got to thinking yesterday, about the closing of Sunday's service... as we commissioned a youth pastor transitioning, to take the head role of a church in need of new leadership and fresh vision. Mentor-ship.

Pastors and staff transition just like any other industry, yet when there is a move of advancement, the previous position becomes a launch pad; a stepping stone; a season of preparation for "what's next". It's not the current position hasn't been important, necessary, critical or real. It has been all of the aforementioned things. And even those experiences are helpful when there is simply a lateral move to another similar position as was held before.

Above all of that, though; the lessons, the trials, the conversations, the "ah-ha" moments, the experience as a whole... all of it turns to knowledge, wisdom and insight that one soon discovers, still pales in comparison to what they feel they should have once in the new role of exponentially more responsibility.

The parting youth pastor mentioned it in his sermon.

"When I came here, I thought I was a good leader. Today, I am leaving a good pastor."

And the mark of a good leader who also happens to be a good pastor? Multiplication.

By the grace and favor of God, this is the forth time our church has helped launch an associate or youth pastor as they have sought and taken on a senior pastor role. Interestingly, none of them in thriving churches. All of them being in need revitalization and one being a church plant, starting in a church building on the verge of closing its' doors as they were down to only 5 attendees. That church plant was in a brand new facility in less than 3 years.

It's not a boast on our church, although it is an incredible honor. It is a boast on the Lord. As we prayed yesterday, that stewardship is more than just money... it's taking care of what has been entrusted to you. As a Senior Pastor entrusted to lead, build and develop the skills and abilities of the pastors who sit under their leadership, this is a form of stewardship.

And the very definition of mentor-ship.

A pastor who stewards his staff and pastors well, will inevitably find themselves in these moments.

Launching. Propelling. Forwarding. Then bringing in the person God directs them to fill the pastoral position now open and the process starts all over. Again.

Launch. Staff. Repeat.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray over this incredibly daunting process... of mentoring. Of stewardship. Of leadership. Of multiplying successes and best practices. Pray for wisdom... so much wisdom, beyond the years of senior pastors who are making the investment; beyond the years of associates who are gleaning. The struggle of ministry is real. May the lessons learned prove valuable; the experiences priceless; the trials strengthening; the "ah-ha" moments as turning points. Pray for healthy relationships and teamwork among pastors; may there be a unity of purpose, a camaraderie of spirit, a bond of friendship. Pray for the miraculous, as pastors cast vision; establish strategy; fill critical positions, implement plans and engage community. 

All glory and honor to God, as good leaders become good pastors; create strong, healthy and vibrant churches, that change communities for eternity. For the cause of Jesus Christ. For the advancement of the Gospel and the Kingdom of God.

- PNC

I feel way to young to be saying the phrase "back in my day", but be that as it may, there used to be an expression of being "hauled out to the woodshed" for your punishment, discipline or correction for whatever brilliantly stupid thing you had done that had caused trouble or difficulty.

As I thought about the events that transpired during my morning yesterday, I knew I had had my brilliantly stupid moment... hopefully not to be repeated for quite a while. I don't know about the rest of you, but I get very anxious, when it comes to having an idea of what reactions I might be facing, while never fully knowing what those reactions might entail.

All this... for stuff that will be forgotten in short time. Probably not in a couple of months (sadly). Perhaps even longer than that. But eventually it will fade. In the meantime, the frustration and disappointment of moments in time that have gone awry create stress, tension and difficult conversations as details and solutions to problems get sorted out.

We experience them in life with others. We experience them in life with God.

Yet, somehow, God's are so much easier in the long run. Why? Because of His grace. His mercies are new every morning. Yours and mine... not so much. Not that new... and surely not that often. It's almost like you'd rather be in trouble with your Heavenly Father more than anyone else, because you know His love is never-ending. Plus, you have the benefit of know, that no matter what, He will in fact work out all things for good, for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

We simply need to remain steadfast in trusting and standing on such promises from God. And pray for the interactions with man, that God will intervene and work the miraculous.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors and leaders experiencing woodshed moments. May they experience the grace of God in new and meaningful ways, regardless of the circumstance. May God give them wisdom and direction in the difficult circumstances they face with people. Pray for a covering, as the plans and purposes of God are carried out, even when things don't look, feel or seem as though God can make something beautiful from it. May their strength and trust in Him be fortified in greater dimensions, from this day moving forward.

For the glory of God. His love for us, too great to leave us the way we are.

- PNC

So, this is kind of interesting. There's a decision under consideration by my wife and I that happens to be the same decision being worked out  by some friends of mine, technically, in 4 other households to specific.

As I prayed yesterday regarding this circumstance, as each of us are needing direction, I found myself praying that God would show us the path He has for us, and "gently put us back on it, when we happen to miss a step."

For whatever reason, I immediately recalled, what has transpired in many an action movie, but particularly, Indiana Jones... where he's walking the path, and a misstep results in a sword shooting out, or a boulder rolling in front of him, or any other obstacle meant to immediately destroy the one trying to traverse the path.

And so it feels, in real life. One wrong decision. One bad turn. One second guess. It doesn't take much, and we can find ourselves in serious trouble, simply from trying to navigate this life while facing challenging situations and difficult circumstances.

Pastors, receive no special exemptions. In the church. In the home. Whether it affects the congregation or the family, any one of us have specific points in time where we look book and recognize, that certainly we should have, could have and probably needed to make a different decision compared to the one that we actually made. And while the decisions may not be matters of life and death or serious bodily harm as Harrison Ford overcomes on the big screen, that doesn't make them any less important. Worthy of covering in prayer. Substantial enough that we shouldn't' try to sort it out without seeking the face of God and trusting Him to illuminate the way.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for the challenges and decisions facing pastors. Whether figuring out what's best for the family at home, or the family of God, may they seek the face of God. May they do it first. Pray, the strength to resist the temptation to lean on human understanding and reasoning. May their faith be fortified as plans are discussed, even when their is a leading and a prompting to move in ways that don't make sense. May they trust in God's plan and purpose, as they pray for God to light the way and make the path clear.... that obstacles designed to take them out would pass; that they would safely cross over, to the where and what God has in store for them.

For the glory of God, we pray to these things. In the name of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Leave it to God, in His sense of humor to provide confirmation, that I am facing something in my life, up close and personal, at this particular stage, for the very first time. I wasn't thinking about it, when I came up with the title, either. Hours later, the irony switch flipped.

I found out over the weekend, that friends of mine had taken on a new role at another church a while back. While the one spouse had been involved in worship ministry in the past, now she was leading worship.

A whole new world.

To this day, I love how our Worship Pastor describes this role. There are worship leaders and there are lead worshipers.

It's a great and powerful perspective... especially when you find yourself in unfamiliar territory. One focuses on who you are, the other, on what you do. One focuses on your position to man; the other on your position to God.

The more I thought about this, yesterday afternoon (as I pondered another potential situation, that also would be a first), I thought about how often God called forth men and women, totally unprepared to do in full, what God had asked of them. Save this... their heart was willing. Sure they had doubts. And questions. And hesitant moments. But, in the end, obedience won. They dug deep, did what God asked and God use them to advance His kingdom. In the process, their is much to be learned from the lives' mistakes to their life's faith.

So you and I must do the same. For unfamiliar territory. For unknown outcomes. For unseen paths that await us, as we move forward with God. It may be our first time, but for God, He is a seasoned professional. We can trust Him, for His help, guidance, support, correction and love. 

Pray with me, this #associatePastorTuesday, for those pastors finding themselves in unfamiliar territory and situations... facing challenges, difficulties and opportunities for the first time. Pray for wisdom to make the right decisions. Pray for understanding, that they would know what you desire to accomplish. Pray for strength, that they would not give up in frustration. Pray for favor, that God would prepare their steps and place the right people at the right time as to work the miraculous.

May God have His way in our lives as we acknowledge our reliance upon Him. Whether we be experienced or rookies, God also has something more. Something new. For His glory; accomplished through willing hearts.

- PNC
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

"Time is ticking away. Tick, tick, ticking away."

Words sung by the popular Christian rap band, DC Talk, in their early years, and obviously, still very true many years later. It keeps a steady, even pace, yet seems to go by faster, all the more... like it is building up speed.

This felt especially true yesterday morning, as I stopped at a customer site, where they had moved buildings.... literally, right next door. I asked when they made the move, suggesting it had been 3 or 4 months. The guy replied... September.

But more important than the all too quickly passage of time, is how quickly life and situations can change. In an instant. Faster than my Keurig filled my coffee cup. Information that can change a decision. A response, whether emotional or intellectual that changes the nature and dynamic of the conversation. It's these "drop of a hat" moments, that can catch one off guard, and cause things to elevate in ways that we never intended.

It may not be an out of control moment, but certainly one that you could reflect on and think, that really wasn't necessary. There isn't or wasn't a valid reason the situation should have played out like that. Yet in the moment, everyone has the potential to act and react in ways that do not line up with intentions. Like the article I read the other day, on a Pastor who gave theoretically advice, should he one day find himself discussing a moral topic with his child. It happens to be a topic, many people, including Pastor have had to actually have with their kid. The sole comment at the time I read the piece, was to the effect of... should you find yourself actually having to have this conversation, let us know if you handle it how you've written about here.

A healthy reminder, that for all of us, life can get just a little too real... way too fast. And for as much as the everyday Christian needs God's guidance and direction in such circumstances, how more for Pastors and those in ministry.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors and the situations they face, like we all do, when life and conversations change quickly, in ways we didn't expect. Pray for their actions and words, whether they are first or in response, that they would have the wisdom and discernment to not make matters worse. Pray for a calmness of spirit and a peace about their demeanor... that God is at work in all of our lives, even when it gets hard and difficult. May their be a grace and love that transpires... that brings about healing and guidance to challenging circumstances, rather than more harm and frustration.

For all of us are called to reflect Christ as we follow Him. And while we all fall short, His grace is sufficient.
May we operate in that grace, daily. No matter how fast to goes by. For the glory of God, we pray.

- PNC

There's a great exchange in my favorite political-drama television show, where the Chief of Staff bought a pen as a graduation gift for the President's daughter upon her completing college. The senior staff as well as the Chief's assistant all asked the same question:

"Does it do other things?"

"No. It's just a really, good pen" replies the CoS.

Associate Pastor seems to be an elusive term... a catch-all perhaps in aiding wherever they can to the senior/lead/head pastor. Or depending on the church who only has 1 pastor to begin with, the title given to the"second in line" if you will.

A quick search on pastoral titles gave opportunity to read some interesting comments. Things like, why can't they just pastor? Denominations uses titles differently. What's with all the specialties? Is Worship Pastor someone simply getting paid to do what the Song Leader, back in the day, did for free? And so many more. Some light-hearted with a dose of sarcasm. Others... bothered, that perhaps all the titles are taking away from actually doing the work of the pastor.

Senior/Lead Pastor - traditionally, the original Pastor
Executive Pastor - handling church operational responsibilities
Community Pastor - handling congregational responsibilities such as small groups and/or community relations
Outreach Pastor - handling of evangelism opportunities and events
Teaching Pastor - handling of things like adult ed classes, discipleship, perhaps small groups
Campus Pastor - for multi-site churches
Of course, there is' Children's, Youth, College, Worship - self-explanatory
And who knows' what follows... after that, it probably could get somewhat narrowly focused as to responsibilities, whereby someone could question whether it "qualifies" as a Pastoral role.

To all that, as we pray for Pastors facing burnout, perhaps times have truly changed in the church world... that there is too much going on in the world and society for one sole man or woman to "handle" all the responsibilities of the church, do so effectively, while accurately and effectively preaching the Word of God.

That being the case, wisdom and discernment is all the more needed and required to be covered in prayer. As as I quoted John Maxwell yesterday; "the right person in the right place = progression; the right people in the right places = multiplication"

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for those Pastors struggling in their responsibilities, to effectively manage and handle the tasks and challenges they face. For the Associate who has become a "catch-all" pray for creativity and strength as they search for ways to gain traction and get help in finding solutions that will help them become more effective. For those overseeing very specific responsibilities, may they do that "one thing" (it's never literally just one) with excellence. Pray for wisdom and discernment for senior pastors and churches figuring out what works best for their congregation and community as to roles and responsibilities and the accompanying titles that should be filled.

May the work of the Lord, not be hindered by titles. May the body of Christ recognize the gifts and abilities of its' members and utilitze them accordingly... to do well, the building up of the church to impact the World for the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

A pastor friend of mine, posted on social media yesterday that he was working on a sermon regarding the idea of Simplicity. He shared a quote that shared that these are exciting times in which we live, yet have consequences. Technology is amazing, yet how does one keep up. The quote closes with the thought that we fear that we will "attempt too much and accomplish too little"

The comments that people posted in response where insightful, as this is surely a problem. It's easy to get sucked in and discover significant chunks of time are missing... time that had originally been marked for other tasks and activities. In response to one comment in particular, my friend asks "how do we figure out what stays in the circle and what doesn't" as to how we spend time and not feel overwhelmed by the abundance of sensory overload.

I replied with end result of an analogy shared by my pastor. "It starts by keeping Christ at the center of the circle. Anything that doesn't fit with that or competes with that, will give you a good indication of where it should go in the circle, if it belongs there at all."

Then I got to thinking about what Christ has in store for us and the things we settle for... even things that take us further away from Him. People who know God, were at one time Christians; maybe still believe they are... yet there remains areas of active living that are contrary to God's word. I thought about the woman with her accusers and Jesus' statement about throwing the first stone.

Just because there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, doesn't meant that He will not take the opportunity to loving remind us that we are to go and sin no more.

Sin is reception interference from communication with God.

The closer we draw to Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to work in our lives to become more like Him, the clearer the channel we experience with God.. Sin, essentially disobedience (from the first command of 'don't eat from that tree, Adam & Eve' being separation from God results in channel to God difficult to understand at best and nothing but static at worst. Perhaps this is why it feels God's attempts to get people's attention back to Him is so dramatic.

A weak signal won't hear His whisper.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, as pastors meet with people of the congregation and community, that they would have the courage and the wisdom to effectively communicate the truth of God's Word that would draw people closer to God. Pray for sins to be removed; condemnation will depart and a clearer channel of communion with God will be experienced. Pray that Christ will be found at the center of the lives of the believer, in order that everything else may take its proper place, in alignment with Jesus on the throne of our hearts. Pray for those lives, even among Christians, whose lives and lifestyles are out of balance. May they hear the voice of God... even if it is no longer a whisper, for what He desires to accomplish in and through their lives.

Clear lines of communication, between God and man... just like when God walked with man in the Garden of Eden.
May we accomplish much, for the cause of Jesus Christ. For the glory of God, the Father. By the power of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC

I've always known and  understood that ministry is a team effort, when it comes to a pastor and their spouse, regardless of whether it's the man or the woman that is the pastor

I was reminded just how much truth lives in that reality at our business meeting Sunday night. Some marriages share pastoral/ministry responsibilities. Others, one fills the position of pastor, while the spouse provides an incredible level of support and work behind the scenes to aid in making sure ministry of whoever is pastor goes forth without hindrance

There is so much work that goes into doing the work of the Lord; the variety of tasks and responsibilities; the opportunities that call for your attention;the management of staff and resources; the discipline of study and preparation of sermon and the building up of the believers... just thinking about it makes me think stuff would easily get missed and overlooked.

This is why it's importance to have a strong team of pastors, advisors, and staff. It's also why each of those positions need to have stable, disciplined personal lives, particular where marriages are a part of the equation.

Unstable marriages in ministry can be an incredible invitation for disaster. Unresolved tension and frustration can lead to conversations and situations that will, quite simply, distract and pull a pastor away from effective handling their pastoral responsibilities, let alone have a clear and focused mindset when it comes to seeking God regarding the direction of their ministry and what God has in store.

I shared such a sentiment with a pastor to just that effect recently.

For some reason, I can't remember my exact words, but it was along the lines of...

"I'm sure you guys face incredible challenges in your marriage that I can't fathom, because of your ministry, but I know that because you have a strong marriage, the difficulties you DON'T encounter as a result is also, probably impressive as well."


Thus, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, first, for marriages in ministry that are not stable. May the power of God bring grace, forgiveness and healing to those circumstances and whatever the events are leading up to and surrounding such challenging times. May God help them sort through the emotions and the perspective, as they look to God and trust He will provide an resolutions and restorations. Pray that spouse would be encouraged, that whether they share ministry responsibilities in official capacity or behind the scenes; that their work counts for the kingdom and glory of God. May God work the miraculous in the homes and families of pastors, anew and afresh... may there be an anointing and a favor upon their lives straight from the hand of God and may the legacy being laid for the children be a path those young people walk to make an impact for the cause of Jesus Christ for generations to come.

The body of Christ... strong to do the work of the Lord, because the first spiritual unit, the family is strong in the faith itself.
For the glory of God. By His grace. Healthy and whole to do and speak all that He has for us to accomplish.

- PNC.