There are some things you have control over. Others, obviously, not so much. And for the things that you do have control over, decisions must be made. Will you handle it? That's a good first question, because if you aren't, then it makes moving forward that much easier. Delegate it if you must.

Forgive me. I'm laughing. A moment of confession. I'm writing this a day late. Thursday has passed. It's Friday. But I had this somewhat planned out in my head, so writing it for yesterday. Since starting it a few moments ago, my youngest child joined me. And now, as I'm typing, the words are being read aloud behind me. As if there was an echo in my brain, as I attempt to think of the next sentence. Meanwhile, the oldest has also joined us, wanting to read what I'm typing. Which the youngest as not called writing, as I don't have a pen in my hand. So it's "texting". Except I'm not on a phone, so technically, typing.

Why tell you all this? Oh, the irony.

I'm trying to work out the thought process of how to handle disruptions and God, in His incredible sense of humor, is having fun with me for posting this a day late. The youngest has caught up to my typing and as I contemplate the next thought, I hear... "by, Peter Conlin?" as if I were done. This is really hard!

No, I'm not done. But this disruption is keeping me from getting back on track, so that I can be done. What a dilemma. So, will I handle this? Yes, I'm smiling. That's my responding to it.  For some things, that's all you can do. Just react, preferably with a smile. Some things, even if you do have control over them, require consideration, as to whether you spend the time and effort to deal with them. Just like every dollar spent or invested in this or on that, is one less dollar spent on that or in this, so too are the decisions we make regarding everything we encounter on a given day; whether it was on the schedule or disruptive to it. And as much as plans have both a positive and negative aspect to them, so also, do the disruptions of life. Timing, perspective, relationship, importance and many other factors all demand our consideration and influence our response. Handle with care.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, that God would help church leaders to properly respond and handle the disruptions that occur. Both in their personl lives and in ministry, may the nature of disruption not ruin or detour their faith or their witness. Pray for clarity as they navigate difficult circumstances and conversations; that the fog and haze of the matter would be lifted. Pray that any sense of defeat and discouragement would be short-lived and removed; that they would walk in confidence and victory. May there be spirit of peace, that does not allow fear to take over and bring confusion and anxiety. Pray also, that we would recognize when the disruption is from God, attempting for whatever reason to capture our attention and perhaps, our heart as well.

Thanks for entertaining my disruption
On my thoughts regarding disruptions.
Only God in His timing, is perfect.

- PNC

We've all "fallen" behind. And it's an interesting dynamic. Because the truth of the matter, is that the farther you go without course correction, the worse the situation becomes. The mess gets messier. The irritation becomes more irritating. What would have taken a matter of minutes, now takes a matter of hours, and what was a few hours, now takes days and weeks. Nothing is gained falling behind. (this just in)

If anything is in fact, learned from the process, it's the point that there is great power in staying focused, staying on point and doing what needs to be done when it needs to be done. For the task list items, that's simply a matter of diligence and stewardship. For the unseen issues, it's a matter of wisdom and discernment.

If anything, I feel I have more experience in lagging behind than leading the field. I think the work involved in the former is more stressful and frustrating at more times than the latter. Not that leadership isn't hard work. It is why many don't lead from the onset. But for those who aren't at the top or out in front on the leadership scale, there are many who follow, who struggle just to keep up with the pace.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would help those who pastors who are struggling to stay on pace and maintain the correct course. Pray that God would give them the wisdom and discernment to know what they need to be doing from day to day and faithfully execute their responsibilities and duties, both personally and as it pertains to the ministry. May the recognize that there are always opportunities to lead and may the be aware of when those opportunities may present themselves. Pray that they would not fall behind to the point that frustration and discouragement would be stronger than the desire and motivation to catch up and get things done.

For the work of the Lord is never complete,
As much as His work in us is also, ongoing.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I got to thinking about generations again, probably a combination of what happened earlier tonight and something pastor said during service. Whatever it was, one thing is clear. Every generation makes an impact on the next.

Some impacts are profoundly powerful; an inspiration to do, to go and to be better, farther and more accomplished than has previously been done.
Other impacts are also, quite powerful... and profoundly devastating. They serve as opportunity to do, go and be something entirely different from what the generation was.

The first kind is always intentional.
The second kind, almost always quite unintentional.

Thus, it begs the question, for nearly every conversation, every action, every teaching moment and shared experience... what the desired outcome.

Because if we recognize our words and deeds don't bring about the desired outcome, then we should probably change course.
And if they do bring about the desired outcome, then we are reminded to continue to do the right thing and handle matters the right way.

Every impression may not seem lasting when it is made, but that doesn't mean that it does not last. Even the ones you don't plan or think will. They do.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that as leaders of the body of Christ, that pastors would never lose the perspective that impacts are always being made. Pray that their conversations would be intentional, and their actions, honorable. Pray for a grace about their lives, that when mistakes are made, they will not only be short-lived, but lessons quickly-learned. May they not only lose the hope of their faith, but also bring a hope of faith to those around them; excited not only for what God has accomplished, but what He is in the process of accomplishing.

For as long as humanity lives
God's redeeming grace stands.
For the kingdom of God.

- PNC

This song, as written and performed by Mylon LeFevre & Broken Heart from their Big World album, played earlier today. It's seems by the hour we are reminded of just how much hate and evil exists in the world. Whether it be through one's actual actions or one's words, it is clear that society's twisting of "love" and "hate" combined with "truth" has brought us to a point that many don't know what to do.

What they perceive as hatred isn't.
What is true hatred doesn't bother them.
They call for love, as long as it doesn't contain truth.
And truth is passed off as opinion and justification to continue in the wrong.

If God is Love, then love can't conquer when God is denied and rejected. Eventually, there has to be a spiritual breaking and transforming breakthrough. Without one's acknowledgement of their life in relation to God, truth will be ignored, love with be meaningless and hatred will be skewed.

Do we need to let love conquer? Absolutely.

But it's efforts will be hindered and restrained if we don't let God prevail. The two go hand in hand, for God and love is one and the same.

Somehow we've arrived at a place where we think we can love without truth. And every form of hatred is wrong. And both are wrong.  There is a time for love and time for hate. And truth must be present in all of it.

Pray this #communitySaturday, that as we interact, that God would prevail... in both our words and our deeds. Pray that truth would be at the forefront of what we say and love would motivate what we do. Pray that hatred would be properly directed at evil and sin, rather than those who commit it. Pray that God would help us, during these troubled times, for many are in spiritual trouble. May lives be changed because they see in us that change that Christ has brought.

For we all have sinned
And all are broken.
We all need Christ.
For this day. For every day.
For the glory of God
May Love conquer all.

- PNC

I caught part of a sermon from Chuck Swindoll on the radio, and he mentioned how at a previous church he pastorsed, he had to deal with the heinous acts of one of elders. He didn't go into great detail, obviously, but he talked about when it came it to the surface, that the church dealt with it. Publicly. And correctly. Matters such as what that church encountered can't mess around, when it comes time for resolution.

We are all human, even the nicest, most admired and influential of leaders. Sadly, at some point, more churches than not have had matters that have been a troubling and delicate balancing act that they have had to deal with and bring instruction, correction, resolution and healing.

But it begins by the things we keep in the closet of our lives. There's big difference between guarding the treasures and hiding the monsters. And every time one passes from this life, with monsters not dealt with, we leave a looming disaster. For just as you don't know who will walk through the "empty" house after you move, neither do you know who will discover what your life has left behind. Who knows what the repercussions will be, but at least if the monsters in your life are dealt with while you are still around, you have a presence and a voice in the outcome. If they are found after the fact, well... it's a devastating disaster waiting to happen. And it ruins the reputation of your life, as there is now, no way for anything good to follow it.

The monster is now your legacy, rather than your guarded and prized treasures.

Don't let what's wrong in your life go unchecked and unresolved. Lest the unknown be your defining moment, rather than that which you have striven to make known.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for those in church leadership who perhaps have monsters in hiding. Pray for the power of confession to do it's work, that resolution and healing may occur. Pray for wisdom as churches and pastors deal with delicate and troubling situations, regardless of their nature. Pray for correction and instruction to have it's place. May such circumstances be saturated with grace and truth, love and forgiveness; even when punishment and justice are in order. Pray that the church would be healthy and holy, functioning as a whole body, serving a holy God.

For His glory alone
Called to be holy, as only He is
For the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

It's really hard some days, to keep current events off of a site dedicated to ministry, church leadership and burnout. Yet, some days, it's purely unavoidable. Today is the day we pray over those who ministry to your children and youth. And while New York celebrates legislation  that permits abortion up to the moment of birth essentially, hearts break. As does God's, obviously.

And have you noticed a pattern? Those who lecture and push for care and compassion on so many other issues and area's of life, some of them sensitive topics, some of them political hot-button problems, somehow are all okay with this.  And it simply doesn't compute. The disconnect seems as though it would be hard to miss, and yet it eludes so many. Just stroll through social media. Or not.

It's been said that good writers, write. Great writers steal from other writers. So let me quote Matt Walsh, who offers my exact sentiment on New York government's horrific move.

"Please don't complain about deporting children if you support murdering them... You are standing on a mountain of dead kids while you sermonize about being compassionate to kids." - Matt Walsh

Deportation, obviously a hot topic, in it's own right.
The proper care and treatment of animals, sure.
But let's put this in another perspective. In New York, lethal injection for criminals is illegal? Lethal injection for the unborn? By all means.

This is just... well, not just, for certain.

I wrote a while back, they we aren't raising kids, but we are raising adults. I didn't coin the phrase, and I'm sure more educated and well-known can expound in greater detail than myself. But it seems society is bent on pushing kids farther away from the people that we would hope they would become. Perhaps not by our words and maybe not by our actions. But somewhere down the road, the next generation will reflect up these current days and wonder... what in the world were those adults thinking?

Sorry, kids. We weren't. And too many simply refused to do so. As the blind lead the blind, they traversed a road against better counsel and more importantly, ignored those, who while not perfect, tried to bring a perspective of common sense and a belief of Godly truth to the conversation.

Nothing will ever be built by your hands, if you are killing that which is being divinely created by God's.

On this heart-breaking #youthPastorWednesday, pray that we would not fail in training our children up in the way they should go, so that when they are old, they will not depart. Pray for a revelation in the leadership, of both within the church and the world, who have departed. May there be a return to God, that we may properly lead and raise our kids. Pray for today's youth. May God guard their hearts and minds and keep His hand of protection over them, as the days are indeed, growing ever more evil by the hour.

That our cries would be heard from heaven,
That God would come forgive us
And heal our land.
Son of David, have mercy on us.
For your glory alone.

- PNC

So, I'm standing by the check-in desk to drop the kids off for their service this morning at church. Coffee on the desk, half-gone already. And I'm not sure what happened, if I picked it up and loosened my grip or what... but the next thing I knew I was watching it fall. For whatever reason, I kept replaying the scene a few times during the middle of praise and worship (sorry God) and wondering; why didn't you grab it mid-air before it landed? You didn't even make an attempt to save it. You just watched it plummet and empty itself

For years now, we've prayed every Sunday for a day of effectiveness and efficiency regarding the ministry efforts of the church and the advancement of the kingdom of God. Yet this morning, I pondered...

Just how effective are the negative events, actions and words in our lives because of our inaction? We watch tragedy happen, sometimes in slow-motion, thinking we should intervene and yet, as if we are frozen in time, we don't respond. At all, let alone, before the coffee hits the floor. I know this. That was a great cup of coffee. And I was bummed to have lost what I was in the middle of enjoying. How much more important things are there in this life, that are much more tragic because of my inaction? What about you? What about eternity? Are we watching as if life is moving in slow-motion? My youngest celebrated another birthday today. I can assure, life is absolutely not moving slowly, let alone in cinematic slow-motion likeness.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would not be those who simply watch life pass us by, up and over. Pray that we would see opportunity to intervene and interact in ways and words that will change lives for the good of humanity and eternity. May we not get frustrated and discouraged by the temporal things such as spilled coffee. Pray we not be effective nor efficient at being lazy and unproductive, but engaged and encouraged to speak and to share life with the hurting and the dying.

For as the Word of the Lord gives life
So should the words of our brothers and sisters
Strengthen and encourage said life.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

We had a pretty powerful discussion this morning during our men's breakfast. And despite the weather, quite a turnout. Sadly, there are many topics, which over the years, the church has shied away from talking about and regrettably so, both the church and culture are paying a price for allowing truth to be twisted and perverted. And one of the most prevalent discussions that the church is losing, or seemingly so the more we don't deal it... pornography.

A discussion not for the faint of heart. Here's the scary stat on the matter.

70% of all google searches involve pornography. Talk about crisis issue! And in our three-person panel of pastors, one said something powerful. Many things tto be exact but here's the title shot. If you deal with dragon eggs when they are eggs, then you won't have to worry about them becoming dragons.

Sin always operates in this modus. Let it go unchecked and it moves from an irritant to an issue. Let it remain a mess long enough and it will become a disaster. Let it continue to be an obstacle that you trip over until it becomes a mountain that you can no longer see your way past. In a like manner that we ignore the elephant in the room, this is perhaps the dragon we refuse to realize is attempting to burn our house down with fire!

Pray this #communitySaturday, whether the issue be pornography or something else, may we not let such issues and battles go unchecked, especially to the point that they destroy lives. Pray that we would recognize problems and confront them with love, grace and truth.  May we not fear the power of confession, even when the consequences and outcomes may be severe and life changing. Pray for wisdom in knowing how to handle the circumstances and conversations that bring deep and dark issues to the light that is presence of God that He might accomplish the miraculous.

For confession is preferable to conviction
To the glory of God our Father.
In name of Jesus Christ our Lord.

- PNC

You never know what one simple act, what kind word, what statement of truth will be the difference maker. You never know what will be the moment of revelation; when there is a shift in the atmosphere or a clarity of understanding or a change of heart. No matter how often you connect with people, hear their story and situation or whatever... there is also "one more thing", that they hold closest to their heart.

And perhaps, just maybe, it's the very thing that is standing between them and God. It's standing in the way of establishing relationship with Him. It stands in the way of a greater and more powerful relationship than what currently exists. And it feels at times as though, both in formal ministry and every day life, as though you are throwing things at the wall just to see what sticks. Or as Donna, from The West Wing says, putting the milk out there and see if the cat licks it up.

That said, impact is made through continual, repeated attempts. Practiced and disciplined habits. When it's lacking you notice. When not lacking, well, the evidence is equally noticeable.

On this #missionsFriday, a simple reminder as we pray, that those both in missions and ministry, would not tire or grow weary in well doing. May there always be an answer for the hope that is within us and may we be prepared to give it. Pray for a continual openness to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, to be directed in our conversations and deeds, even with those whom we "know" the best. May God accomplish great things through the lives of those who are faithful in the little things. For God is God overall and nothing goes unnoticed from His presence.

May we live with an equal sense of purpose and intent.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

As we often pray for our leaders, in all kinds of arenas of life, we understand that have vision to cast and agendas to achieve. And by and large, that's good. They have goals and often approach them with a clarity and purpose and pursuit towards improvement. Or at least that's what we hope.

Of course, depending on where you look, you'll quickly notice there are many who have agendas that are questionable, to say the least and dangerous, if we're be brutally honest. But it got me thinking about followers. The reasons people consider themselves "followers" are many, but do we view them as having an agenda with the same meaning and intent as the standard we hold for leadership?

I think the short answer is yes! Otherwise, there is no meaning for the term "hidden agenda". Likewise, advisors and those who are on the "inside" assisting leadership have their reasons and agendas as well. And when there is diametric opposition between any of the three, then the breakdown begins. Tensions become apparent, problems start to arise and the conflict becomes complex. And the longer it goes unnnoticed, ignored and excused, the more difficult the process of course-correction becomes.

The alignment is easy and inexpensive when caught early. Delayed and prolonged, it's a whole other level of work and cost involved to make things right.

Pray this #deaconThursday, that this would not be the existence of church leadership. Pray that those involved, especially at the leadership level or position of influence, would be a group who is in agreement and unity. Pray for those whose agenda and purpose is detrimental and damaging to the ministry and the advancement of the Gospel. May God do a work in their hearts and minds that would prompt a spiritual shift. In these challenging days, may the church be a people who seek God and love others. Pray there would be a genuine connection, whereby we would link the hurting among us to the God who loves and heals us.

For the only following that matters,
Is that of the leading hand of God.
For His glory alone. Eternal.
Unlike humanity's, which is fleeting.

- PNC

Truth and consequences. Cause and effect. Action and equal, but opposite reaction. Am I the only one amazed at just how quickly, as adults, we seem to forget sometimes that every thing we do, not only makes an impact, but also prompts a response.

The response may be verbal. It might be internal. The response could be immediate. It could just as easily be delayed. Yet in our finite minds, if there is not an immediate repercussion, then somehow we fall for the trick there might not be a repercussion down the road.

We learned it as kids. We teach it to our kids. We remind our friends. We criticize our leaders. Then we live our personal lives as if the truth of this matter applies to everyone else but us. And how very wrong we are.

Words make impressions. Ideas of consequences. And when truth is cast aside, chaos ensues. We can do no greater disservice to ourselves, than to believe a lie and then compound it, by sharing it with our youth.

As a great pastor once said, every generation needs its' own revelation of God. We can set the foundation and begin the build, but we must prepare them to live a life that will seek the face of God and accomplish His purpose for their lives. Even when we miss the mark in leading them along the way.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that today's youth would hear the truth, seek the truth and know the truth for themselves. Pray for a revelation for today's generation. In a time of great chaos and confusion, pray that God would bring clarity, both through His Word and through prayer and preaching. May God guard hearts and minds from the lies of the enemy; that we would not be tempted to believe, follow and live based on half-truths and false premises. May we live and serve faithfully in the calling and gifts God has granted to us, whether as parents, pastors, leaders or friends.

For all of us are better
Because of one of us
Just as all are redeemed
Because of One.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

An early lead, is better than a late start. Especially, when, regardless of when you start, you are committed to see the process through to the finish. However, both positions have the deterrents. Getting a later start on something can cause just as much frustration as it does excitement. With every advancing step, you're tempted to kick yourself for not starting earlier.

Yet the earlier the start, the longer the road to traverse. For experiences and encounters, while providing great fulfillment, also offers competing opportunities for frustration. So you find yourself more motivated to advance or more quickly experiencing the fatigue and exhaustion that leads to burnout.

It's an especially interesting dynamic when it unfolds in leadership roles. It's hard to figure out which person you admire more at times. The one who has overcome a lifetime, whether almost literally or seemingly figuratively, of battles and setbacks yet persevere. Or the one who had a well-established foundation and started off on the right foot. It doesn't diminish the fact that they haven't had challenges and disappointments; it's merely a fact, that they have a long-time to make a powerful and lasting impact.

Of course, as I type this, none of us know how long we have. Perhaps a year. Perhaps 60 or 90 more. Why am I writing this as it relates to associate pastors? Because the people who fill these roles run the timeline of age and experience. Young people who have a solid foundation and early start for a long-lasting ministry abound. Conversely, an innumerable amount of older believers, some of whom have come to faith following years of a difficult life and step into church leadership ready to help others, whether they be younger or older than themselves.

The potential and prospect for incredible ministry is great for both of them. But so is the reality of burnout.

So pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would strengthen both the younger and the older, who are help to lead the coming days of the church. May God grant to them, wisdom and discernment in the conversations and circumstances in which they engage and experience. Pray they would stay motivated and determined in their purpose, callling and responsibilities. Pray that neither past challenges nor the ones in the coming days discourage them to the point they would feel the desire to step away. May their faith remain strong; their resolve firmly planted in the hand of God.

A lasting impact for eternity.
Regardless of where they start
Regardless of when they start.
So long as they finish. Well. Strong.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard a nationally-syndicated radio host talking about authenticity and what a powerful perspective he offered. Specifically, pseudo-authenticity. The appearance of being authentic kills genuine authenticity. Why? Because eventually people see through it, for what it is. A cover-up. It dilution. The fakes, the frauds, the counterfeits... when people get burned bad enough, and often enough; it destroys the future relationship when genuine care, concern and compassion is shown.

We desire for people to be real; to be authentic. And while we can't always tell the pseudos apart at times, it's important that we have a discerning spirit about such things. At the same time, it's sad that we arrived at a place in our society and culture that we have to have a such a spirit. And so often.

It's really not that hard. Unless you happen to have something in your life that you know you shouldn't share. Perhaps an agenda, that if exposed would be rejected. Or sin that would bring life to a halt, if not ruin. Maybe we just don't like who we are and thus, present a persona that is not true to ourself, let alone true to those around us. Or the world, at-large, for that matter.

Whatever, the reason, pseudo-authenticity is a dangerous presentation to wear. It will cause damage to others, it's a disgrace to yourself and ultimately, is a great disservice to the God who created you with a purpose.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that those who lead the church from the pulpit would live and share a true faith. Pray that fear would not dominate what is said and done. May the factors that contribute to the falsehoods and misleading presentations be removed. Pray for a quiet confidence as pastors live and move in ministry and the calling God has placed upon their lives. Pray for authentic connections and relationships to be built and progress as the church moves forward. May there be a greater impact that is realized, as a result of honesty and truth that is lived out daily, under a covering of grace and an attitude of repentance.

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

- PNC

My wife and I went to an improv comedy show last night and had a blast. And as I considered today's post before service this morning, I recalled the closing skit from the show. The power of communication without words is incredible, especially when you are attempting to ascertain what someone is doing or what something means. It's also absolutely hilarious.

It's amazing how quickly the message gets through. Likewise, depending on the circumstance, either laughable or frustrating, if the message takes what seems like forever before the receiver understands what is going on.

So to is the Gospel understood. Sometimes quickly. Other times, after great lengths. Often through the use of words. Perhaps, more often than realize, accomplished without words. The Gospel that shares salvation. Speaks truth. Offers grace. Extends forgiveness. Exposes sin. Loves unconditionally.

For all the effort that we hope and pray will be effective beyond our abilities and imaginations; you truly have to wonder if and when the message misses the mark. It's a sobering thought and rightly so. But it is reality, as uncomfortable as it is to consider. As such, we do indeed, need God's help.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that the message God desires to give to the world, would not get lost in translation through the flawed and broken lives of redeemed sinners. Pray that lives would connect, whereby grace, love, truth and forgiveness is expressed, offered and received in the exchange that is the presentation of the Gospel. May their be a sensitivity and awareness about our lives, that there are people around who are struggling in the darkness as we all once did. While we may still stumble, there are many who have yet figured out how to call to God for assistance in getting back up.

For while we will rise again,
Many have yet to rise once.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

How do you know when you are excited about you community? You are seriously excited to join your friends for the men's breakfast at 7am on a Saturday morning, only to arrive and 6:58 and find the building dark and the dry, salty parking lot empty. Are you kidding me?? I could have sworn all the announcements said it was today! Nope. Apparently it's next weekend. And I drove off into yet to be seen sunset.

Many people and circumstances cause frustration, anxiety and even fear, about the prospect of coming together and being around "community" in whatever form it takes. And rightly so, perhaps. Personality conflicts. Strong differences in the systems we refer to as beliefs and values. Past turmoils and troubles for which one or many have never healed or recovered.

These are the things that kill community. And ultimately, kill the enthusiasm, such as I possessed this morning, as I drove in the dark while Classic Petra's Back To The Rock album blared through the speakers. (I highly recommend you get the album, by the way)

I submit, quite simply and accurately, that the quality and nature of one's anticipation towards community is a direct result of the people. Conversely, the same is true for everyone else, as they look at the group of which you are a part.

Do you want to experience the power and thrill of a great community?
Determine today that you will contribute positively in making that a part of the culture, in order that others will experience the very thing that you look forward to; much like I was looking forward to breakfast. Fortunately, I didn't miss it. I was just 7 days early. Now I just have to do it again next weekend. And I'll wake up just as excited and enjoy the drive there as well. Perhaps still playing Petra. Then again, the collection around the house is filled with lots of great choices... it's hard to go wrong.

So, let's pray this morning, that each of us would make a great effort to build a great community. One that people look forward to enjoying time and conversation. One in which people look forward to making contribution. Pray that we would continue to speak truth and do so in a spirit of love. May Christ be displayed, even in times of great tragedy, loss and suffering. May the world know there is a God who cares, because the people of God care. Pray that the agendas and biases would stand in the way of the message of the Gospel from going forth in the world, as we live our lives in the communities where God has placed us.

For such a time as this.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It's amazing at certain times of difficult and stress to witness who comes to the forefront to offer some sage and timely advice. And this past week there were numerous instances of such moments, including this phrase...

"Don't die on this hill."

I'd ask you what you are choosing to care about, except I know a handful of things I could re-prioritize.
I'd ask you who you are choosing to influence, except I know I'm not nearly engaged as much as I wish I were.
I'd ask you what is is that bothers and upsets you to the point you would "go the mattresses", except I have my own list I should probably revisit and clean up.

We pick some interesting conversations and even more interesting people and questionable times, in which we choose a subject matter to engage. Not to the point of literal death, but we miss signs and clues as to points of exit. Perhaps continuing the matter is futile. Perhaps there is greater satisfaction in the argument rather than the solution.

Whatever is going on, the list of people and the hill on which they "died" is incredible. Yet, there's only One and one hill that matters to all, for all eternity. Every other cause, every other agenda, every other "hot topic" of the day... they all pail in comparison, not only to what Christ did, but to that which ultimately, He has required of us. Yet how often do we get it wrong, choosing the temporal hill for the eternal hill.

Pray this #missionsFriday, for missionaries and believers who are under great attack and persecution. Pray for strength to endure and faith to remain steadfast. No matter the trouble or trial, may the keep their eyes ever focused on God, confident of their eternal reward. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous through their lives, testimony and ministry. And pray for the rest of the body of Christ. May we choose careful the "hills" upon which we stake our claim and reputation. May we not lose the clarity of purpose and conviction that God has not only brought us to, but called us to do and to be to a lost and dying world.

May the cross of Calvary
Be ever present as we go about our days.
For on that hill
Christ changed eternity.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

You've heard the old adage, 80% of all statistics are made up, on the spot? 80%! Or was it 83.7?

The problem with moving the line in small, incremental changes is that it's harder to notice at times, just how much progress has been made. There are times that this is a good thing... like getting out of debt. Other times, this is not so good. Like not noticing how much you are going into every time you run your credit card at Starbucks in the wee hours of the morning.

There are worse lines to move, though. Like truth. There's a divine reason for boundaries. A purpose beyond what the finite mind sees. So when society and culture starts moving things around that God never intended, we can find ourselves in very dangerous places; in circumstance and position for which we are not prepared.

We can't see or predict everything. But there is a priority and great benefit in being surrounded by those committed to seeking truth, speaking truth and living by truth. Unwavering. Uncompromising. Honest.

In a world that seems to be nothing but the opposite, in nearly every aspect and arena of life, these are days the church (and society for that matter) needs leadership that is above reproach. Which is made even more difficult by a culture that is so quickly offended and even more quick to seek and destroy those who are so bold as to declare their disagreement when the truth is not told and facts are twisted to serve a purpose that does not serve the greater good.

So, pray this #deaconThursday, that the church leadership would be a place of truth, that wavers not and compromises even less. May truth ever be on their lips and in their hearts. Pray for a steadfast-ness, that stands out from those who change the line to fit wherever they may be standing at the time. May they stand before the throne of grace, in need of grace; not defined by failures, but by the fact of God's love. Pray they would live with clarity, bringing wisdom and discernment to a world that is quickly losing both.

For the glory of God
And the benefit of the people of God.
To change the world for eternity.

- PNC

Yesterday's post go me thinking... dangerous, I know. But back on topic. I found myself thinking about the power of "calling out". 

It's a special individual who can see in people, what they don't see in themselves, and call things out. Sometimes, it's calling out an point of correction or area of concern. Other times, it's more of a calling forth moment. Calling forth, that which exists in obscurity, unseen many, but noticed by one. Calling forth that which was dead and speaking life.

How many times do we see this in the life of Christ? With Lazarus, naturally. But with the sick. With the disciples. The woman at the well. And numerous others, in similar moments.

It's a special individual, because it is a special skill. We know not everyone has it, because it seems that we are so profoundly moved when we either experience it in our own lives, or witness it happen in the life of someone else. Yet, if there is any compassion and care with in the family of God or within your own family for that matter, it is a skill and perspective that we should utilize. Put it into practice daily and to good use for eternity.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, God would help each of us, especially those circumstances, ministries and opportunities were we have opportunity to engage in conversation with kids and young people. Pray that God would grant wisdom and discernment as we speak life and truth into their lives. May we speak with as much love and conviction during times of correction as we would during times of support and encouragement. Pray for the power and quickening of the Holy Spirit to call things forth into existence; whether it be something within that has died and needs to be revived or truth that has yet to be revealed to them. May the next generation arise with great purpose, because of the generation that spoke into them with clarity and purpose.

World-changers,
Because their world was changed by God,
And by those who spoke His truth into lives of all ages.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

There's so much of life, the we look at, as cause and effect... in a reactionary way, yes, but in a process. The classic, "if, then" statement.

Then there's the song, So Will I. A truly powerful song, that I reflected on during last nights joint service, when men's and women's ministries comes together once a month with the college/career group.

So Will I talks about the vast greatness of God and puts into perspective what our response to it should be, as we position ourselves in relationship to who God is. And the chorus walks us through several justifications.

If the stars were made to worship, so will...
If everything exists to lift You high...
If the wind goes where you send it...
If creation reveals God's nature...
If Christ gladly chose surrender...

And a number of other similar statements; all as a reminder that while we might have reason for not doing and being as God would have us to be, we have, as the song states, a billion better reasons to do and be what God has called us to be and to do... and to go.

As the service progressed and the men gathered for their session, the long-term youth pastor, now associate pastor, shared some of his story. As a point of detail in the background of his ministry, reluctance to step into a formal, pastoral role. As if the responsibilities didn't "scare" him off, but the title itself. We've prayed before that sometimes titles can stand in the way, to the point that we don't engage or fulfill our purpose at any level.

But even still, sometimes there is just enough that stands in our way that we don't fully engage and take advantage of the opportunity that God would use to an even greater degree and measure than ever thought possible. And the power of the story is that there was one who sat across the table and called it out of him.

Perception. Discernment. Obedience.... to see it and to speak.
And to the hearer... to step forward in it.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would do the supernatural, to break the barriers and fears that prevent pastors and would-pastors from stepping into the role and purpose that God has ordained. May God place people in their lives who would see the dream, calling and anointing that God is desiring to reveal and help them to respond in obedience. Pray that reasons to not do something be cast aside, in favor of the eternal reasons that God would have things to be done and courses of action to be taken.

May fear not hold us back from ministry,
But that faith would propel towards a greater impact.

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

- PNC

Some people, you look at in disbelief and consider how they have the nerve. In a confused state of wonder, you ask yourself why they are the way they are, believe a particular way, act, speak and engage in a particular manner. Depending on the person, it's a varying degree of annoying.

Others, you view in similar disbelief and consider their resolve. In an admirable sense of awe, you ask the same questions. And depending on the person, it's a varying degree of inspiration.

You have to admire the resolve of pastors. I don't know how one can't.

In a society where people ask for truth and evidence, but then reject it because they don't think one can set aside their bias and belief and offer objective truth. Of course, what is objective truth when that same society has abandoned the concept of absolute truth.

I can't fathom how often and long the days exist, where they feel as though they are fighting a losing battle. Losing for people who don't heed their advice, value their input, take suggestion courses of action regarding their life and or their faith. A losing battle for the hard-hearted who want nothing to do with God and the hard-minded, who want nothing to do with the church.

Do they know the battle is the Lord's? Absolutely. Does that take away the fatigue, hurt and discouragement that comes from standing on the front lines of faith? Not in the least.

The risk is great. The reward is greater. The days that feel as though the opposite is true? Perhaps too many to count. Dare I say, the pastors who have suffered burnout, could probably mark the day they that they felt the shift begin to take it's toll? Another reality we'd probably rather not acknowledge, but is all to real for certain pastors' existence.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors on the verge of breaking. Pray for those pastors who feel as though they are losing their resolve to continue in the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged. Pray the Lord would lift them up and revive their spirits. Pray that discouragement and frustration, while it may not be removed for from them, would not overwhelm or dampen their spirit. May it deepen their commitment and quicken their desire to accomplish even more.

Staying the course
For the advance of the Gospel
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC