I recently witnessed the power of Psalms 34:18

"The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saves such as be of a contrite spirit."

It got me thinking just how often we look at situations and while they may seem at the time like they are a bigger deal than what they really are (if we put them in a proper perspective or timeline), we don't always find ourselves responding to them correctly.

Sure, there's a time to be upset about our circumstance. Frustrated with the details of the situation. Perhaps it's someone else' fault; more often than we care to admit the problem lies with ourselves.

It's amazing just how quickly, even when we aren't looking, pride stands up.

We don't want to go. We don't want to do. We don't like to hear. We don't want to feel.

Yet the power of God lies in the power of confession.
It exists in the admission that we cannot live life on our own
We cannot endure the trials and troubles of this life on our own.
Even when situations are caused by our own misdoings and misgivings; God is able to move in the circumstances of our lives that begins with our standing before God... broken and contrite.

It's easier to do when it's obvious. Sometimes.
It's often much harder, though, when it comes to the refining points of faith.

So, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors that God is dealing with and refining. Pray for the situations and circumstances where it may be harder to acknowledge that their heart aren't spirit aren't as broken and contrite before the Lord as what He desires. Pray for those pastors who feel perhaps God is not moving in situations and circumstances; may their be an illumination in their hearts and minds even this hour that God moves through the power of confession. May they find mercy for their mistakes and grace wherever they may go.

That God would accomplish the miraculous
For those who would call on His name
Whereby we are saved.
For His glory.

- PNC

We all have those mornings that we just aren't in the mood for getting up and out of bed. Perhaps you slept well, or maybe you didn't. But where you are is just to wonderful to give up in light of what you may or may not have to face once your feet hit the floor. Does something major await that you don't want to deal with and figure out?

Whether or not disaster looms ahead or there's just a sense that another day for potential problems  is lurking, it's time to examine what's going on.

Even a leader can miss this in their own lives, but one of the marks of a good leader (as stated by a friend of mine) is that they recognized when someone on their team is already stretched.

You are already doing X and Y... you are not taking on Z as well.

And if they insist on Z, then the next question is whether X or Y is being given up.

The lack of ability or awareness of a leader is what causes burnout among the team. Thus, if they can't spot it in others, one wonders if they have placed such boundaries in their own lives. Do they recognize them? Do they follow them when they get close to taking on too much.

Moments such as this contribute to not wanting to get out of bed and take on the day. It may seem like it's a minor deal; but like most everything else, that's how major stuff begins. Neither external monsters nor internal strongholds are created overnight.

So, thanks once again for joining me in prayer, this #seniorPastorMonday. May today be a day of refreshing and rejuvenation. Pray pastors would arise refreshed and strengthened; ready to take on the challenges of the day, even in the face of difficulty and disconcerting matters. May the spirit of discouragement be lifted as a spirit of peace takes over within them. Pray for wisdom and guidance as they lead their teams and staff; that there would be a prospect of hope and a countenance of potential as they place their trust in the most High God, anew and afresh.

May Hell tremble under the feet
Of those who arise under the anointing of the Holy Spirit
And the power of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

A couple of articles came across my social media newsfeed in the past day or two. One of them was a satirical piece on the power, or lack of their off, of worship songs being utilized in the service, which was clever in it's own right.

The other two, however described reasons as to why churches where closing their doors as well as what preachers are doing other than preaching the Gospel of Christ. 

In both articles, the bottom line (even for the satirical worship article) was what happens when the church moves away from preaching and declaring the truth of the Word of God.

More concerned with comfort and entertainment.
More careful not to offend than a commitment to the full Gospel.
More emphasis working out the trivial than understanding the truth.
And the list goes on...

You could probably create your own list, based on churches you've attended, visited and the length or lack of time you hung around. The same is true for how long you've participated in a particular ministry.

Yet, I come back to the same reasons I'm hooked on Classic Christian Rock... a solid commitment to the Word of God. Though the sounds and methods change, the uncompromising message does not. Only our stance and approach to delivering it is what impacts its' effectiveness.

**funny, I'm listening to The Healing Rock online station and the founder of The Healing Stream Media Network discussing the difference between hype and anointing regarding their latest radio station.

Once again, the timing of God... uncanny.

So, will you join me this morning?

Pray, this #effectiveSunday for the delivery and impact of the Word and worship of ministry. Pray the Word would not be diluted or watered down for fear of offense, misunderstanding or social pressures. May there be a trust in the transforming power of the work of the Holy Spirit as people offer up their praise to the throne of God. May today be a day that hearts and minds are moved; that lives would forever be changed for the eternal glory of God. Pray the church would indeed be a house of prayer, as we move forward in the plans and purposes God has laid before us to accomplish His Will among His Creation.

Empowered to impact our World
With the Word of God.
For all eternity.

- PNC

We often take this time on #communitySaturday to pray God would help us impact our community with the love and message of Christ.  Yet, if I can change things up this weekend...

Meet Lee Shaw, who you can read and hear about some of his story here:
www.napachaps.com/chaplain-lee-shaw.html

Shaw, was a local pastor in 1996 when he was approached by the police chief to minister to the law enforcement community. Today, he leads a team of chaplains who minister in times of crisis to agencies and communities in 15 counties! Shaw wrote a letter to a pastor friend who shared the letter in a sermon I heard the other day. To hear the details of this letter is astounding. You can imagine the scenarios and the crises that were outlined.

Families dealing with the aftermath of an accident
Families dealing with the announcement of an officer injured or killed in the line of duty
Helping first responders cope and continue with life after repeated trauma scenes.
And so, so  much more.

Just replaying the list in my mind and recalling my reaction... at one point it was just dropping. The list of scenarios and situations just kept coming.

But what a transition, to step outside the four-walls of the church to be even further to the front-line of the community by ministering to people in times of extreme crisis and trauma. What's beyond even this... Shaw traveled to Ground Zero on three separate occasions, he was on-site at Sandy Hook and also, in response to Hurricane Katrina.

Thus, the impact we can make on our communities and those who serve the front-lines of our communities are great. And the opportunities are greater. Yet we can all begin in prayer.

Would you join me, this #communitySaturday, in pray for Shaw and his team and others like him (i.e. my cousin, who is a military chaplain). Pray that God would strengthen them as they serve, for if the potential for burnout exists anywhere, it's on the front-line of trauma and stress. May they be surrounded with people who would be their encouragement as they encourage and minister to others. Pray that God would go before them and prepare the way, for the never know what they what sites and circumstances upon which they will step.  Pray for protection. Pray for wisdom; that they would be empowered by the Holy Spirit; to share timely words in moments of tragedy; to speak life in spite of great loss. May ministries like this witness the miraculous, as God moves in the affairs of man, even at most chaotic times of life.

All for His glory
To show compassion.
To share grace.
To express love.
Though life may change on Earth,
May lives be changed for Eternity.
To reflect Christ to a world in need of Him.

- PNC

I'm so excited!!

Friends from a former church we used to attend together announced last night, via social media, since is was "real-life" official, that they were venturing into the world of full-time ministry. They are taking a campus pastor position at one of the campuses of an area church.

The transition though...they have a road in front of them. Though life has been busy and we haven't connected with them in a while, one of these days, I'd like to get the full story; as he acknowledged that this was a change that he didn't see coming. Though they have been active in church ministry at some level for as long as I've known them, he is stepping out of a corporate gig in order to fulfill this calling and pursue this opportunity.

Steps of faith like this always amaze me. I have my suspicions as to the reasons why, but that's neither here nor there... at least not right now.

It doesn't matter if steps like this are taken at the onset one's ministry or well-seasoned and versed in ministry matters. What's next with God is miraculous balance of excitement given the level of unknown variables that exist. It's as if decisions in the corporate world can be narrowed down to specific, calculated risks while ministry decisions barely account for the risks. The sovereign hand of God simply trumps any calculated risks we could consider when it comes to ministry.

Yet, no matter where one is in ministry, no matter what they are instilling in their audience about the Christian faith, His purpose outweighs the plans of man. It's eternal. It's fulfilling. It's ever-lasting.  More rewarding. The list is endless.

Whatever the process, nothing man does holds a candle to what God desires to accomplish through those who are open to going wherever He leads. Even at the most unexpected times and places of life.

Join me, this #youthPastorWednesday, as we pray for those both in ministry and debating the prospect of ministry. May there be an overwhelming peace and confidence as God reveals His plans for their lives, whether for the first time or the next time. Pray for an unshakeable trust, even when the illuminated steps of our path are few to zero. Pray for God's provision and protection as such steps are taken; that resources, people and funds would at the picture as God ordains; frustrating and unsettling as His timing may be... may His peace surpass all our understanding.

For He works all things together.
Even when the change is unexpected.
For the supernatural move of God
Supersedes the natural works of man.
Every time. Without fail.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

This 700 post milestone has had me thinking the past few days... what else would be different if I had been working on them as faithful as getting to this mark. It got me thinking, perhaps again, about habits and disciplines.

Fitness 2-3 times a week for the  past 23 months?
Saving $1-$5 every day for the past 700 days?
Memorizing a Scripture a day?

I caught an pieces of an interview the other day with Steven Curtis Chapman and his wife... she still has every love letter he has written her. And he still writes them!

Going back more than 700 starts to get a little depressing. As I consider this next generation of pastors that we have brought on staff even at our own church in the past two years, I can't help but think of the disciplines I wish I would have implemented in my life when I had more time, energy and focus to actually make them happen and apply them to my life,

My health would be different.
My financial outlook would be different.
My relationships probably would work better.
My approach to life might be less stressful.
Perhaps my career would  be different, if I were more critical in my education.

I don't say all this from a place of regret or frustration seeking sympathy; but from the understanding that whatever it is that we set out to accomplish, whether in life or ministry, or anything else for that matter, the sooner one starts the better.

Late starts, no matter how much you put in, rarely catch up to the place you would be if from starting earlier.

Thus, will you pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for this next generation of pastors stepping in to various places of ministry. Pray for strength and wisdom in whatever they set out to do. May their be a focus and an energy in their lives and their approach, that would set a foundation of living a principled and disciplined live and ministry. Pray God would place people in their paths, that would help guide and encourage them along the way; providing insight and strategies that would set them on a course for success; not just on this earth, but in their effectiveness for the kingdom of God.

For even as, today is the today of salvation for those who hear the word,
May today be a day of fresh starts and new beginnings.
For yesterday cannot be changed,
Tomorrow has yet to be written
And His mercies are new this morning.
Even this very hour as you read this.
For the glory of God, we pray these things.

- PNC

Well, we are here.

Yesterday was consecutive post #700. Today marks the start of the 24th month since the relaunch.

Wow, how time does fly. And yet, I know this pails in comparison to the years of service that pastors, missionaries and other church leaders have put in to the body of Christ. It fails to reach the number of sermons prepped or hours spent visiting those under hospital care. It fails to reach evangelistic efforts and time spent helping those less fortunate in the community. It does begin to reach the hours upon hours spent in prayer, seeking the face of God and the miraculous power of the blood of Jesus Christ.

While I'm proud in what God has helped accomplished through this, I know it's a fraction of a contribution. On it's own though; it looks different. And that's the power of perspective.

Certain milestones and benchmarks are reached and at times, it may seem like an opportunity to back off. For indeed, breaks are good. Everyone needs a break now and then. Yet it would be easy to look at such moments and decide to go out on a high-note, when there is still so much to do.

When we rest on our laurels and our trophies; the accomplishments we may have achieved, is usually when we are most prone to things going south. The temptation to coast is great; yet that is what begins the downward trend the moves us away from the great accomplishments that, by the grace of God, we have achieved before hand.

So, while congrats may be in order, be encouraged to keep up the good work and fight the good fight of faith.

Thanks for joining me once again; as we pray this #seniorPastorSunday. Pray for the resistance against temptation to rest on laurels and accomplishments. May the pursuit of the advancement of the Gospel and God's will always be at the forefront, even in the face of great success and victory. Pray that pride would not overtake the perspective that God is not done with any of us yet; that none have arrived. Pray a continual seeking of the face of God; that His hand would not missed, nor His directives misunderstood. May we see His handiwork, as pastors and leaders continue to seek to be His hands and feet extended to the body of Christ in service to the kingdom of God.

That we would ever be about the work of God
No matter how great the work is that is complete.
May we be as Paul,
Ever pressing on towards the prize of the high calling.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Well, I am simply blown away. And my boast is in the Lord.

When I started revamping this site two years ago in May, I didn't know what God had in store; nor what this project would do in my own personal faith. June 1 marks the completion of two years. Meanwhile, today marks the threshold of 700 consecutive Daily Prayer posts.

I remember having the conversation with God when I was trying to figure out exactly what I hoped to see this site accomplish. I felt in my Spirit, God's answer was a very simple start.

"Well, you have webpage titled "Daily Prayer". Why don't you begin by writing one every day?

My only concern was how quickly repetitious this site would become, so I simply replied, "If I'm writing every day, I'm gonna need your help."

For any one in ministry, especially full-time, if there is any ever desire to be effective for the kingdom of God, that is the first response.

Whatever you want me to God... I'm gonna need your help.

I'm constantly reminded I can't do this life on my own. My faith. My work. My marriage. My kids. My finances. My health. This ministry project.

I fail every time I attempt to do it on my own and feel to seek the wisdom and strength from the hand of God. It's an easy enough trap to fall into... you have a good day and think it can be repeated. But the first time you leave God out, can be distinctly marked as if it were a skipped payment on your credit report. (not that God is keeping that kind of score).

Nevertheless... 700 of anything isn't without notice. Yet, it pails to what churches and pastors have accomplished, both in shorter periods of time and tenured ministries. And they, like myself, still only have one response.

Moving forward, God... I'm gonna need your help.

Thanks for joining me, these past 700 days. And let us join in prayer, once again this #effectiveSunday. May today be a day of victory for the kingdom of God. A day of 700 salvations. A day of 700 addictions broken. A day of 700 marriages restored. A day of 700 families healed. May today be a day of increase, strength and wisdom for churches. Pray that we would continue to arise daily and call on the name of the Lord. May we seek His face and see His hand at work in our lives; that through our reliance on Him, He would prove Himself faithful to do His part as we continue in the plans and purposes He has placed upon our hearts.

Lord, I thank you for the past 700 days of insight
Lord, I commit the next 700 days to you.
That You do what only You can do.
For my life and this project is nothing;
If you are not first in it and with it.
For your glory, I pray.

- PNC

Is it just me or are the days running together? Faster. More frequently. It's getting harder to remember what happened and when. Either that, or I am getting older. (And everybody older than me reading this says "just wait until...") I can see the comments already.

I think it was last Sunday (see my point?) that we were discussing cross-generational churches. Then yesterday on Equipped Radio with Chris Brooks, I caught part of interview in which they were discussing research on the millennial  generation and what they loved about their church.

Overwhelmingly, the response that stood out, was that church was like a family. It's truly how it should be, as we are the family of God. Scripture is replete with we are His children and joint heirs with Christ and the like.

One conversation they shared was the research they were doing with a particular focus group when I young person started attributing their love for their church with the name of one man. Then everyone in the group agreed, upon the impact of this "guy". Hearing of his involvement, they were prepared to meet someone who was just an incredibly engaged young, youth pastor.

On the contrary, and quite to the contrary at that... the man everyone loved is 77 years old. He attends kids sporting events; visits school campuses, connects with them over coffee or whatever and genuinely seeks to impact the generation coming behind him.

All this got me thinking, naturally. As we the discussed the difficulty in fostering healthy families in the church if the leadership families are in various states of unhealthiness, so present is the difficulty in fostering effective community relations outside the four walls of the church, if the church body itself isn't a healthy, functioning community. The 77-year old saint being a prime example.

Thus it begs a question for all of us, myself included.

Who in the generation before me, am I allowing to speak into and invest in my life?
Who in the generation that follows me, am I speaking into and invest in their life?

Thoughts to consider, as we pray this #communitySaturday. Pray for the church community to continue to reflect the character of Christ; to reach across the various dynamics that differentiate us and bring us closer together through the love and grace of Christ. May we people that make a greater impact in the communities in which we live because of the people within the church that have invested in us. Pray that we in turn, would continue to seek opportunities to invest in the next generation; that they may continue to the good work of bearing witness to the glory of God and the gospel of Christ.

May our communities be places of health;
Because our churches are places of health;
The result of healthy homes, being led by healthy people.
For God is working on all of us
As we allow the power of the Holy Spirit
To reflect in greater dimension the character of Christ.
For the sake of the world.

- PNC

"The most miserable man in the world, is not the one who is lost, but the one who is saved; and out of fellowship with God." - Adrian Rogers.

Is it possible that this statement could be any more true?

If it is not the epitome of burnout, surely it most be considered one of the pinnacles. It matters not, whether we are talking about an "everyday" Christian or a ministry leader... life happens to all of us. Life attempts to crowd out other things and other priorities in lives. Even as we've prayed for distractions and interruptions these past few days, we are continual barraged with matters that take our focus and attention from where it truly needs to be... the fellowship and presence of God.

Christianity is an intentional faith.

If we would rather not God be considered passive; One who has created us then left us to ourselves, but rather actively pursues us, then how much more should our faith be actively responding and interacting with God?

The human condition is broken.
Yet God is continuous in His attempts to bring us to a place of wholeness.
Meanwhile, man may or may not understand the fullness of the broken state, but is constantly attempting to find wholeness by any means other than God.

Even for the one who is saved, we can miss this mark... despite trying to accomplish it with Christian activity or things that revolve around the faith.

But long before Jesus called the disciples to accomplish anything for the kingdom of God, He called them to the simple concept of fellowship with Him.

So, as we pray for missionaries on this #missionsFriday, pray for those in various stages of burnout; who are finding themselves in states of frustration and distress because life and perhaps even ministry has crowded out times of fellowship. May God work the miraculous healing in the hearts, minds and souls and bring them to a place of wholeness as only He can accomplish. Pray for grace, as we are often harder on ourselves than what others place or demand of us. May there be a sense of forgiveness as God brings them through a process of restoration. Pray a return to be as intentional in our pursuit of God as He is in His pursuit of us.

That was meant to be distract, derail and destroy
Would only serve to strength our resolve
To remain committed to the things of God
To pursue fellowship with Him.
To fulfill the calling and purpose He has placed upon our hearts.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I just want to say thanks, to those of you who join us daily in praying for our pastors, missionaries and church leadership. I trust and pray this is a blessing and is accomplishing the miraculous for the kingdom of God.

In terms of consecutive posts, today is #697! I can hardly believe how much time has passed and I continue to be blown away by the perspectives I sense God granting to me daily for the next post. In fact as I reflected yesterday on the volume of posts that exist now, I couldn't help but consider the ironies of God.

On rare occasion, there's been an event or conversation that has happened days after a post, but much more frequently, probably weekly if one were to keep track, the ironies come hours and at times, even mere minutes after a posted has gone forth. It's a remarkable phenomenon to reflect on, as I have shared them with friends at certain times.

Yet no matter what it is that you are working on, distractions will come. As a friend reminded me last night, even when you think you get a few good days in, the enemy attacks.

"Oh, all is well? How do you feel about this?" (insert new problem or dilemma)

We all get distracted and thrown off task. Yet let me say this... except for in the event of certain death or disaster, where you are found to be the only source of help, there really isn't so great a crisis to interrupt you that can't wait a few more minutes or sometimes even seconds, for you to finish the task at hand. Even if you can get to a place where you can safely walk away for a while without losing your place... for walking away to deal with the distraction can so disrupt the task, that it will cost you time for sure and potentially even money by not finishing.

Whether you get thrown off in the preparations that will make a task easier or you are actually working on the task and get called away, distractions have the potential to cause disaster or at least wreak some havoc into your life. It happens in the largest of organizations, it happens in the smallest details at home and it certainly can happen in ministry.

There will always be a new problem arising that will be trying to gain the attention worthy of being put at the top of the priority list. The problem is that you will find yourself stressed beyond what is necessary, for you will continually find yourself in crisis management mode, rather than productive, getting-stuff done mode. Sure, there are days and times for crisis mode, but making it a pattern of living... well, they pay experts good money to handle that kind of work.

So, thanks for joining me again, this #deaconThursday. Would you pray for church leadership and operations. Even as our church faces some projects to take care of on our campus, some of them unexpected, others were known in advance; may God grant wisdom and direction in managing and resolving these issues. Pray for the resources to made available to implement solutions; pray for the conversations that will occur in pursuit of those solutions. Though man makes plans in his heart, may God guide the steps our leaders.

That He may receive glory.
Even in the mundane and the daily tasks.
Whether they be trite and minor
Or major and heavy-hitting,
May God help us remain focused.
On the task at hand;
To the purpose which He has called us.

- PNC

I caught part of an interview with Chuck Swindoll the other day, regarding his latest book, on getting the most of the Scriptures. Pretty much from the onset, it took an interesting turn, as they talked about his childhood and growing up in the Swindoll home looked like. Amidst the description was his conveyance, that his parents rightly applied the Scriptures when it came to discipline and that it was indeed, a home where the grace of God was displayed, even when correction was a part of the conversation.

It prompted introspection even for me, to consider how well (or not so well, at times) I am leading my children.

At the same time, they started discussing the difficulty that permeated an entire generation within the church. They discussed the longevity; for how long and how quickly, for a time, parenting within the church turned to legalism and how often Scripture was not properly used for correction. Furthermore, the element of grace may or may not have been as present as it probably should have been... perhaps missing altogether. Are we missing a more effective church as a result?

Add to this, if we can, the difficulty of ministry legacy. In subsequent generations of pastors coming into the ministry from homes where parents were church leaders; how has the health of their home-life impacted how they approach pastoring? Even now, I'm trying to think of preacher's kids who, when they've stepped into ministry on their own, haven't started out working with kids and teens.

Thus, if they're coming into ministry having come for a home where the element of grace may have been lacking in matters of correction and discipline, one must consider how that will impact the next generation of kids.

I'm thinking of some of the challenges in my own home and thinking I need prayer! (insert smile)

Will you join me once again, this #youthPastorWednesday? Pray for kids and youth pastors that are struggling with ministry, because of the challenges they faced in their younger days. May God help them overcome, perhaps feelings of inadequacies or inferiorities... may their setbacks become the set-ups for their comeback. Pray God would grant them wisdom and discernment as they lead the next generation in spiritual matters and in the faith. May the pressures of a legacy ministry not weigh them down or burn them out, but inspire them; as they have witnessed the grace and goodness of God, may they be moved to share that experience all the more.

May healthy homes
Lead to healthy ministries.
That build healthy churches.
To impact healthier communities.
For the advancement of the grace of the Gospel.
For the glory of the kingdom of God.

- PNC

If you'll permit me to do an extension of yesterday's Rise & Fall post... that anyone within an organization is exposed to the possibility and opportunity for exhaustion and burnout. That's the nature of continuous effort and work that is not brought into balance with rest and reprieve.

An interesting observation about rising and falling; they both of their edges. We often don't think of the edges involved in the rise nearly as much, for we are focused on the pursuit that's in front of us. We understand the risks and the dangers along the way, but it's the reward that lays ahead that usually helps (at least a little bit) in terms of balance, because we know their is a process involved in the pursuit.

Fall-outs usually have very little control. The outcome of where you could land is relatively unknown, except for the worst case scenario of "rock bottom".

We talked briefly about the importance of wise and discerning friends in this process; for so often in times of burnout, one may not recognize their exact location relative to the edge. They may have a sense they are getting close; occasionally there may be a clue dropped along the way that causes wonder to wonder if a person is in trouble. But it takes a special kind of friend to speak up and speak the truth with love.

Do you realize where you are?

Edges are danger places to begin with; finding yourself in close proximity while also being distracted, frustrated or in a seemingly sense of fog just makes the potential for disaster that much more of a reality. Being brought to this awareness should also prompt change and first and foremost, a desperate desire for God to work the miraculous... perhaps beyond what you thought you may have known was already needed.

So on that note, can we pray this #associatePastorTuesday for the miraculous? Pray for pastors in need of a friend that will speak truth and life to the dark places; for those living closer to the edge than they realize... may God intervene and bring them back from the brinks of unknown disasters. Pray God would raise up friends and people within the church that would not only have a wise and discerning spirit, but that would have the boldness to speak into the lives of leadership, not from a sideline perspective, but from a place of love and relationship. May God bring clarity to places of frustration and fog; and that even in times of great distress and difficulty, that such times would be one more element of the testimony of the grace and glory of God.

As He continues to use ALL things together for good.
For those who love God and are called according to His purpose.
As even the struggles and trials of life
Are not beyond His reach;
Nor are they beyond His ability to work the miraculous.
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

We were blessed to have an incredible ministry organization be a part of our service yesterday morning and it is also such a blessing when they come and share the amazing, life-changing testimonies that are taking place. For their longevity as an organization and the impact they are making, pastor reminded us of the truth of one of Maxwell's primary points... "Organizations rise and fall with leadership".

As we expounded yesterday, it doesn't matter how large the organization or the church, or the family that matter... if the one(s) leading it are unhealthy, then thus under it's authority will suffer. For in all three instances, the world is set to take you out.

The world doesn't want your organization to do well.
The world doesn't want your church to gain ground for eternity.
The world doesn't want your home to survive.

Thus, any chink in the armor it can throw, plan on getting it.
Any attempt to derail, plan on getting thrown off-course.
Any attempt to distract and detour, plan for the unexpected to occur, from both left and right-field.

Who leadership surrounds themselves with, then becomes a critical matter. For those who truly your have your backs will be the ones who will speak life in a moment of solace. The conversation may hard to swallow and difficult to hear, but it takes a special kind of person to discuss the truth with others when dangerous territory is on the horizon.  It doesn't matter of it's at an organization level, a ministry group or the home-front, those in charge need people will help them do well and even do better because of the wisdom and love they bring to the table through the power of relationship.

So, will you join me this day? Pray for leadership that finds itself in difficult places. May God grant them wisdom and discernment in the challenges that they face. Pray for friends, who will have an awareness and speak life and perspective into matters and areas of concern. May the words fall on hearts that will receive, even thought it be hard to hear. Pray for revelation and insight as they proceed, that God would go before them and prepare the way; for greater impact for the cause of Christ.

Thank you my friends
As we do our part to glorify God
And impact our world for Christ.

- PNC

A power couple in ministry, friends of ours were the keynotes at a marriage conference down South this weekend. Their testimony is incredible, both what God has accomplished in the lives as individuals and as a couple. And thanks to the power of social media, she kept posting gold nuggets online, from her husband's teaching to the marriages that were in attendance.

When she posted the following statement, I knew it was perfect for today.

"Churches will have no effective ministry unless they have healthy marriages and families."

Though it sounds a little harsh, it's also profoundly true. Really? No. Effective. Ministry?

It is a cycle? Effective ministry should be producing more healthy people and homes, definitely. Yet, at the same time, if you have unhealthy people leading ministry, who themselves are not growing and maturing spiritually, emotionally and in their relationships, then one has to wonder what are they building?

I understand, families are work. So is marriage. And church is a given. Life is work. Work is challenging. Plus, everyone is in a difference place, fighting different battles, facing challenging struggles... life is exhausting at times. Being civil can be hard enough; let alone reflecting the character of Christ regardless of whether it's at home or church.

I'm reminded once again of the words of Jeff Foxworthy.

"I need church, because by the time we get there, I've done yelled at everybody in the car on the way there."

And perhaps before you even get out the door to the car! When we all come together, it all plays in our ability to live and lead effective ministry. Thankfully, there's the grace of God, but that doesn't mean we all couldn't stand to do better.

So, pray with me, this #effectiveSunday for marriages and families. Pray our interactions with each other, as we start at home, would greater reflect the love of Christ and the grace of God. May our homes be filled with understanding and forgiveness, even in times of discipline and correction. Pray the ministry efforts of the church would not be hindered by the faults and flaws of our humanity, but that sovereign hand of God would go before us and transcend our difficulties and challenges to accomplish the miraculous in the lives of others. May today be a day of change, for marriages struggling; for homes in trouble, for kids in distress... pray God would interceded and move on the hearts and lives to come into greater relationship with Him, being transformed and renewed in the image of Christ.

Let it start me God,
As much as it pains me to admit it.
For your glory we pray.

- PNC

I caught part of a sermon yesterday, not to mention a pretty incredible interview before that, that happens to be a great extension to yesterday's post on timing and how things play out.

So, the story goes that a king and his best friend went out hunting. Now the best friend is ever the optimist. A glass-half full guy, yet to be convinced to the contrary. Somehow he fails to load the gun properly, and sadly, when the king fires at whatever game they were hunting, a mishap occurs and the king loses the top of his thumb.

Our optimist best friend responds as he always does... "this is good."

"Good? How is this good? Half my thumb is missing?"

"I don't know", the friend replies, "but it is."

Surely, there must be a consequence, despite being an accident, so the king puts his friend in prison for a 1-year sentence. The following year, before the friend's time is up, the king goes hunting again... this time, in an unfamiliar region. It turns out, the region was inhabited by cannibals.

As they were prepping the king for dinner, is about the time they noticed the missing half of his thumb.

(this is still good, right?)

As the king's fortune would have it, the cannibals had a superstition; the end result being, their victims had to be whole. The king not meeting this requirement, the cannibals let him go. Realizing the gun incident from the previous year just redeemed his life, he heads for the prison. Naturally, he releases his friend, shares this incredible story and offers his apologies.

Upon hearing this great news, the ever-optimist friend answers, "No worries. It was good you put me in prison!"

"Now, I know you're crazy, my friend. How is it good that I put you in prison?"

*Herein lies the wisdom of our optimist.

"For had you not put me in prison, I would have been with you. Hunting in an unfamiliar region of cannibals. And I have my two, whole thumbs."

We don't always know how things end.
We don't always know how things play out.

Yet no matter the difficulty and challenges we face, the divine hand of God is at work.

Sorry... I took a thought break for two minutes, scrolled briefly through Facebook and Elevation Church is playing a sermon video clip. Reading the captioning, the pastor speaks...

"We always think God's presences is about fixing our problems.
But what if God's presence is about fixing your perspective?"

Well, that couldn't tie in to this post any better, could it? I think not.

As we pray for missionaries on this #missionsFriday, pray that God would open hearts and minds anew to the power of perspective, perseverance and persistence. May discouragement and frustration not be the elements that cause them to miss opportunities for the miraculous. Though the stress levels are high and the unknown, anxiety-inducing, pray the peace of God would surpasses not only all understanding, but all confusion. Pray God would strengthen their resolve to continue in the work and ministry which they have been called; to trust the hand of God even when He may not be traceable.

Confident in God's plan
Trusting of His character
Obedient to His voice.
For all that God has made,
He has called Good.
For His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

.I witnessed once again yesterday, the incredible, impeccable timing of God. Some would call it coincidence or something else altogether, but literally, a matter of minutes (3 at the most) in the framework of hours and it could have been a very, very different day.

I'm reminded that God is sovereign even when we are watching the clock, realizing time is slipping away. We may be running late for whatever reason, but the divine hand of providence is in the midst of circumstances and events that you may not come up on until much later. He is ever present, knowing where you will be and when, thus even the smallest of delays and set-backs are divine moves of God.

We mistake them for poor planning on our part (which might be true).
We may get frustrated for having to wait on others.
There may be circumstances and situations beyond your control that depend not at all upon you to change.

Whatever the cause, whatever the point of stress; God is watching and moving in our lives. He is ever at work, making ways where there seem to be none, even and especially when it seems we are running late.

It matters not if resources are scarce.
It matters not if people are unavailable
It matters not if elements are missing.

Though the aggravation and stress is real, so is the hand of God in the affairs of men.

So, pray this #deaconThursday for church leadership and staff that is perhaps frustrated and stressed over the circumstances and challenges they face. May the reassurance of the Holy Spirit be their strength and comfort; that indeed God is at work in their lives. Though the struggle is real, may they be compelled to lay it at the feet of Jesus; even for a second and third time. Pray that they would commit their plans and ways to God, anew and afresh; renewed by the reminder that God has not left or nor forsaken us, nor has he left us broken in the cold. May such difficulties be divine moments for the miraculously, whereby God is glorified.

For God has the whole world in His hands.
As all was created by Him and for Him.
He has not left us to ourselves,
But actively engages with His creation.
That we may know Him
As we experience His grace and glory;
No matter what we face.
We are His.

- PNC

I heard a portions of a few different sermons yesterdays, one or two of them, I think almost in their entirety. And while I thought two of them I could tie together for today's post, wouldn't you know it, the second part that I thought was good, I can't remember. Does that qualify as writer's block? Either way, it's gonna drive me nuts for a while, but hopefully not for too long.

So, the portion of the one sermon I wanted to utilize mentioned the story of the prodigal son. Of course, the parable describes how God our Father welcomes the return of one who has walked away from a relationship with Him. Sadly, it also describes the brother's reaction, which if you think it about, represents the body of Christ... those who have never back-slid or left the church, if you will. But what about the other positive influences in the son's life?

Have you figured out where this is leading?

Pastors never enjoy hearing about someone in the church "going astray". Leaving the church, leaving the faith, abandoning their relationship with God and anything having to do with the church... put your own descriptive on the event. But I can't fathom how difficult it must be for pastors whose ministry emphasis is children and teens.

Even now, I'm pondering the reaction of my own youth pastor from 20+ years ago, if he had heard that was far, far away from God. Sure, it's a heart-breaking scenario, but truly, how does it hit them? It's hard to deny the real possibility of the raw questions that would keep them awake.

Did they miss something?
Did they not spend enough time with them?
Were there not enough conversations?
Did the conversations they had not get through?
Did they not help establish a proper foundation of faith?
Was there more they could have done to help the parents?
Were the lessons and sermons not relevant or applicable?
Perhaps I didn't make as much of a difference as I thought?

It's hard to say, really. I'd love to tell you that for every pastor the answer to such questions and more that they might face upon hearing of a prodigal from their ministry, would be no... that they couldn't answer confidently, I did everything I could, to the best of my ability with every person under my ministry. Yet, realistically, the possibility that perhaps more could have been done and said must be considered. And of course, that's something that only the pastor can work out in their own relationship with God and the help of the Holy Spirit.

Regardless, such are the circumstances that contribute one more stepping stone on the path to burnout. So on that note...

Let us pray this #youthPastorWednesday, for those struggling (with however often it happens and they hear about it) with the ministry as it relates to prodigals. May they be strengthened and encouraged that they labor not in vain, even as life happens and people turn away from God rather than drawing closer. May such instances not create an opening for the enemy to create doubt, fear and instill a spirit of frustration that would stand in the way of the impact of their current ministry. Pray that if there is an element in their ministry that could use improvement (as we almost always have something in our life for which is the case) that God would grant them that insight and wisdom as to go about making the necessary changes. Pray God would strengthen their resolve to help raise up strong believers to will hold tightly to the hand of God no matter what life and the enemy of their souls would come against them.

For greater is He who is in us,
Than he that is in the world.
For we are His.
Bought with a price.
Ordained for good works,
Before the foundation of the world.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I know that what I'm about to share doesn't exist at every church, and perhaps, because of community dynamics and make-up it's not possible, but I still think it's something to pray for and a necessary component within the church to pray regarding.

For myself, we are part of what Pastor likes to call a cross-generational church. This is reflected in two ways, primarily (at least from my vantage point). The first in congregational. There's a very healthy number of "seasoned saints", long-time believers who have been active in the church for many years. We've been been blessed to have a growing kids ministry and youth group for the past number  of years. And there is a healthy mix of everyone in between, young marrieds, families of all sizes and ages. Meanwhile, our current pastoral staff sits at a 60/40 split. 60% nearly fresh out of college, the other 40%, long seasons of ministry, but with young families.

What it creates from a staff standpoint, are what I can only imagine are incredible times of mentoring throughout the week, behind the scenes. New approaches to ministry as the younger pastors bring a relational understanding of the upcoming generation of the church in collaboration with pastors who have long-standing time and experience in ministry and church leadership; who are bring not only a "what works and what doesn't" element, but instilling a functional foundation of principles that will help build strong and more effective churches.

As we've prayed for associates before, knowing where to go, what ministries to be lead and oversee and interacting with church leadership can be difficult. Certainly, each ministry brings it's own set of challenges to the picture, combined with life experience and life as it continues outside the four walls of the church. Thus, while this is a cool dynamic to have and to watch, I realized it takes a balanced approach and healthy people. You understand by health, I'm talking spiritually, emotionally and psychologically. For pastors who aren't strong spiritually, healthy in the emotions or thinking that is out-of-line, this dynamic not only won't work, but can and will cause major problems. Which, I think we can all agree, the church needs less of, rather than more.

Thus, let us pray once again, for #associatePastorTuesday. Pray pastoral teams where relations are perhaps tense and strained, behind the scenes. While it may not be know to the congregation, may God work the miraculous where ministry and leadership are not functioning as they should. Pray for wisdom and understanding during this time, that healing and resolution will enter these situations. Pray for increased opportunities for mentorship, between established pastors and those that are just stepping on to the scene. May there truly exist a collaboration effect as they come together, to apply lessons, experiences and understanding to bring a stronger, more effective ministry to the communities and culture they serve.

That nothing would stand in the way
Of the advancement of the cause of Christ.
God help us to step out of the way,
As you work through those who step up to serve
As they have been called according to your purpose
For the kingdom and glory of God.

- PNC

I don't know about you, but I find it amazing at times, the levels of people's confidentiality. All types of information, facts, data and stories being told and shared at various stages of leadership and authority and knowing when and what can be shared with whom seems to be the equivalent of traversing a minefield, the boundaries of which are unknown.

Yes, even this applies to church and church leadership; for many a person has been burned and left the church or even the faith, because inside the four walls of the church was an element of gossip... or at the very least, someone at some position in leadership who couldn't be trusted to not share sensitive matters.

There's a pastor who I appreciate very much, for his level of discernment in this realm. He is very cautious, even when relaying stories in his sermons, to change the names of the characters to protect people's identities. It's something I've put in to practice, even in this blog, as we fast approach 700 consecutive posts by the months' end.

What got me thinking about this? Sometimes even the best of church leadership can step a little to close for comfort. As it was shared recently, by someone other than a pastor, who got "in trouble" with his wife for what she called "sharing her testimony". Oops.

I say all of this to say, sometimes it's common sense that is lacking when people and pastors share something someone would rather they didn't. (I'll be first in line that I struggle with this, at times) Other times, it takes a level of discernment inspired by the Holy Spirit to know when something is permissible for sharing... even for the purpose of teaching life application in spiritual matters.

So, will you join me once again, this #seniorPastorMonday? Pray for a super-natural awareness of confidentiality and discernment; to know the what, when, where, who and how information and stories should be shared. Pray they would set an example to the rest of the staff and church body-at-large, to be trustworthy... not in a way that would be considered shady because of the secrecy, but neither known for gossip and transparency in matters that should not be so known. Pray for God's help, for those pastors and churches where this may be a big problem, that is keeping them from growing their church and impacting their community. For churches that perhaps have a reputation regarding this matter, may God grant wisdom as to what steps, practices and processes can be put in to place to start changing how their church is known and perceived.

For we are all in various stages of being made like Christ. 
May we seek wisdom.
Pursue discernment.
Development compassion
Instill trust and confidence.
That God would use us for His glory
May we not sabotage it through our lack of understanding.

- PNC