Steve Taylor is a brilliant song writer and performer, often taking a unique perspective of social issues as well as problems within the church and Christiandom. One such Taylor classic, asks the question, Whatever Happened To Sin?

It's a question as relevant today as it was upon it's release in 1983 on his album, I Want To Be A Clone.

I bring this up, because I got to thinking about just how much we allow into our lives, that distracts and detours us from God, our relationship with Him and what plans He would have us to be about in our lives. We are all tempted and face battles and struggles of various kinds. There are times when there is a knock upon our door, because the one who stands outside doesn't know us and other times, because there is a familiarity and comfort level that exists in our relationship.

Obviously, Christ has told us that He stands at the door and knocks upon our hearts. So too, though, I believe sin also knocks... repeatedly.

This sentiment seems to be a shared theology as a day or two after I considered this concept, about sin knocking on certain doors because of it's comfort level with a person, I passed a church marque sign that read: When sin knocks on your door, let Jesus answer it.

Which is a great, theological response. Christ lives and reigns in this heart, sin. Get lost!

However, what if we don't allow Christ to answer the door, and we give way to sin's knock and sadly, regrettably, fail to turn down it's request to enter and be entertained. Are we too comfortable with sin? Perhaps, if 35 years ago, one musician asked why we've stopped calling it out for what it is? Has anything changed? Well, besides the fact that it is becoming more unacceptable to call it what is. And that hinders a great deal of whatever effectiveness for the kingdom of God that we are attempting to achieve.

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that we would not grow accustom and comfortable with sin, both within our personal lives and in our world-at-large. Pray that we would not allow sin to take up residence in our lives, to the point that it knows better than to even knock on our door. May we follow the advice on the sign and allow Jesus to respond to sin's desire to be a part of our lives. Pray that we would remain ever so focused upon our relationship with God and be about the calling and purposes which He has placed upon our lives.

That we would recognize sin
And call it out for what it is...
A destroyer of the soul.
As we remain committed to the lover of our soul,
Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

 

It truly makes thing significantly more effective and efficient when things are done in order. There is a process for everything, and where there isn't, plan on one being established and written in the near future. This is how things get lost... through a loss in the passing on of knowledge.

However, along with the obtaining of knowledge and experience, should eventually come the acknowledgement of that achievement. Such was the case in church this morning, as two of our leaders were in the church were officially introduced as on-staff Pastors, having completed the requirements within our fellowship of churches to receive pastoral credentials.

They will continue to serve, now, not as leaders over their ministries, but Pastors.

I know, sometimes a title is simply a title. And sometimes, the title is a perception things.

(I"m reminded of the episode in The West Wing, where the executive assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff attempts to jokingly refer to herself as the Deputy Deputy Chief of Staff.) Guess, you had to watch it for yourself.

So, while the title should instill a level of respect and recognition of someone's abilities and expertise, it should also not negate the fact that they were probably quite accomplished long before the title. (As evidenced by how many people receive honorary degrees, even posthumously.)

Having said that, the kingdom of God has it's team dynamics, just like any other team. Some are leaders and decision makers, others are encouragers, doers and dreamers. Some are detractors, side-liners, naysayers and seat-fillers. We don't like to think that some of those dynamics exist, but it doesn't take long to be a part of a church, to notice that they do appear.

It's awesome to be effective for the kingdom of God, even when you don't have the title. Conversely, it's a tragic state of affairs for a ministry or positions within ministry to lack effectiveness, particularly by those who do hold a certain title. If you have it, all the more reason to accomplish the most good you can with it. If you don't have it, do all you can, regardless.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that ministry would continue to advance and grow, in effective and efficient manner by those who are knowledgeable as well as those who are recognizable. Pray that the people of God would be about His plan and purposes, regardless of a specific or title that accompanies the work and ministry in which they are engaged. May each of us use our time, talents and treasures to advance the cause of Jesus Christ and point others to a relationship with the same.

For we all serve a function and purpose,
Some externally, some internally,
Some in seeming obscurity
But God neither wastes a role, nor a responsibility
To be used for His glory.

- PNC

Isn't funny how life works out sometimes?

There are proven plans and principles, that always work... regardless of who is doing the work or the numbers involved or whatever. There's a plan, there's instruction, there's an example that has been established as precedent. It's doable. It's workable. It's repeatable. And that has been the case for many.

And as such, over time, it has developed into something that is certainly effective, and by and large, efficient.

For the rest of it though... are the times where you aren't sure. And that's usually where God shows up. In the simple steps of prayer and obedience and trusting the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

The conversation that you think would offer the least help, ends up being exactly what someone needed to hear.
What seems to be the most broken and lousy-sounding prayer, ends up getting answered.
The act of kindness or generosity that hardly qualifies as sacrificial to the one who gives it and it means the world (and a changed one at that) to the recipient.

On this efficient and effective focus of a Sunday, I offer this reminder... God uses the foolish things to confound the wise.

And on that note, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that while it's good to stick with proven plans and processes, may we not disregard or discredit that times, places and means by which God will use to accomplish His will and purposes. May we continually be people who trust that He is working all things out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Pray that we would neither get ahead of where He is moving and leading, nor we stop or step aside because we don't understand what He is working. Pray that the church would continue to walk in obedience to the Word and pray that even when we can't trace God, we continue to trust in Him.

For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

Yes, it's late in the day, this #effectiveSunday. And today is the start of the 37th consecutive month, of daily prayers. This is the Sunday that we pray that the efforts of our words, deeds and planted seeds would achieve what God would desire of us. Indeed, His Word will not return void.

So what is on my heart?

We've forgotten how to live in the moment. We're so quick to make sure we capture the moment that we forget to simply enjoy and create the memory of that moment. And it's that framework and mindset that allows to not be consumed with being effective, but to do what we can to make an impact. In the conversation. In the situation. In the moment of the life who needs feel the love of God and the truth of His Word.

But we don't enjoy the moment. We simply grab our phones to record the moment... as if our memory is worthless. The distraction takes away from the power of the impact that is made in that moment. Live it. Share it. Cherish it in your heart and soul.

And that's my prayer, this #effectiveSunday. Pray that as we go about the coming days and hours, that we would live in the moment and share and speak that which God lays upon our heart and engage as the opportunity presents itself. May we trust that God will accomplish His will and purpose as we are faithful to follow the prompting of the Holy Spirit. Pray that we would look back upon our days, including this one, knowing that the hand of God was at work; not only in our lives, but through our lives.

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

- PNC

A very simple train of thought this morning, as I'm getting ready for church, reflecting on the events and conversations of the week. I trust yours went well. by the way.

Effectiveness does not come without a strategy. Whether laid out in great detail or a hunch that a certain approach or message might may be necessary, effectiveness does not happen without an intent, a motive and a follow-through. And I think we often put in more thought and strategy than what is warranted at times. Not that there's not a time and place for a grand plan.

But more often, little is done from a lack of plan altogether.

What is it that you want to do.
Where do you want to go.
What do you hope to be the outcome.

If we understand the long-term game plan; if we remain committed to its' pursuit, if we don't allow the distractions and detractors to have power of us, then the goal will be reached and effectiveness will be achieved.

Where there is hope, there will be a dasher
Where there is a dream, there will be a crusher.
Where there is peace, there will be a conflict.
Where there is gain, there will be loss.
For everything that has an advocate, there will be protest.

But on this #effectiveSunday, may we rejoice that God fights our battles on our behalf, and ultimately, in light of eternity, the end of the Book has been written and we know who wins. Pray for resolve to continue to work the plan God has prepared for us. May we not be detoured or distracted. Pray the attacks of the enemy would fall at the feet of the church. May today be a great victory for the church of Jesus Christ; that the body of Christ would be known by their love and their ability to speak the truth in love to those who would have ears to hear.

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

- PNC

A Happy Father's Day to you Dad's out there in the Bring Me 70 / pray4pastors universe!!

I can't thank you enough for joining me in praying for pastors and those in ministry that help us lead our families, churches and communities. There's so much that goes into fatherhood. And we know the reality of that matter is that it doesn't take much to become a father. But once that is your reality, being a father that is known and respected as "good" or better is work. A lot of work. Even when you have zero energy, mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially.

Fatherhood is an investment... in the most important thing that could ever be entrusted to you. A life created by God who bears His image and your name.

Long before we can do what God has called us to do, we have to acknowledge who He has called us to be... and understand that God's blessing came before His instruction.

Doesn't God give the greatest example of Fatherhood?  An ever-present help in times of trouble!

Dad's who can be called upon in times of trouble can be trusted, most likely, because they were so present when there was an absence of trouble. Simply being present speaks volumes to those who want to know that someone will be available when needed.

It's how we know we can call on the name of the Lord and place our trust in God.  For He has always been and will always be. And I love the idea that even when we can trace God, we can trust Him. We may not know what's going on and why He is doing what He is doing, but we can trust that there is a plan and purpose.

So too, is the way to be both effective and efficient in our lives and ministries... to live with an intentional plan and a grand purpose. Ideally, inspired, blessed and anointed by the hand of God. For immediate after God created man, He blessed them and then gave them an assignment.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for God's continued hand of blessing and favor, particular over the fathers who lead our homes and families, churches and communities. May we be the men of God that He has called us to be and do the things in this world that He has called us to do. Pray for a grace about our lives that would testify of the goodness of God even in spite of our mistakes both great and small, of both little consequence and of great consequence. Pray that we would live with an awareness of God's moving in our lives and a sense of awe of the people and responsibilities and resources that have been entrusted to our care and oversight. May we neither neglect the role we play in our relationships, nor be absent from them altogether. Pray that we would follow God's example, to be an ever-present help to those in need as God has been for us when we ourselves have been in great trouble.

Created in the image of God
To reflect the image of God.
All for the glory of God.

- PNC

I realized that both Friday and Saturday's posts mentioned the concept of hearts, being prepared to receive... of being a place of good soil. It reminded me a prayer that Pastor prayed a number of weeks ago now. He prayed that as the message went forth, that it would be milk to those not ready to handle the meat of the Word and equally so, that it would be meat and substance to those that would be left wanting by milk alone.

Every educational process has stages of learning, development and understanding. So too, is the Word of God... as evidenced by the encouragement that we should study it to show ourselves approved. The mystery of preaching is the ability for God uses it as an opportunity to reach every difference among humanity, cutting across every cultural and social demographic and dynamic to one's spiritual state in light of eternity.

This is the power of the Cross and the message of Jesus Christ.

Because at both the beginning and the end of every day, the ground is level at Calvary. Nobody is better or worse, richer or poorer, broken or whole, sick or healthy. We create and analyze these differences and distinctions, but God sees relationship. The existence of it. The opportunity for it. Those under the covering of Christ's grace. And those yet to take advantage.

But on this day of worship, we come together. To be the church. To become a better church. To grow in grace and knowledge and strength, both in faith and in number of God's love.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, today would be a day of growth, not only in number as important as that is, but is also in faith. Pray that the bounds of community would be strengthened, as relationships between both humanity and God are built; whether with the first brick or the ten thousandth. May there be a fresh outpouring of God's grace over our lives and may we extend what we have received to those around us, who are facing battles and challenges of which we are not yet aware. Pray that God's Word would indeed be well-received, to accomplish a good work; for we stand on the promise that His Word does not return void. It will do what it was sent to do for all who hear it.

For as God works in our lives
Are we transformed into a great position
Of both His love and His grace.
To impact our world.
Both abroad and locally.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So, I'm pondering and thinking and drawing somewhat of a blank before getting ready for church this morning. And every once in a while, social media kicks up an interesting perspective. So here it is...

We are only anointed for our assignment. Narrow your focus to your assignment." - Kris Valloton.

How's that for a great word for an #effectiveSunday?

But seriously, there's research now that suggests that multi-tasking is more of a hindrance than a help to getting lots of things done. However, focus and intensity changes things.

The time involved in switching gears is lost.
The mental energy that is expended is lost.

Whether the kids are doing homework or you and your spouse are working on some financial goals or simply meeting a deadline for a project at work... every thing that jumps in and requires time, resources and funds takes away from what should be the priority and the focus of what needs to be done. And that you should be doing.

Ministry is no exception. There's always multiple things going on within the church at any one time. But that's where the people who handle them need to be intentional on what it is they are called and anointed to do. For if you pull them away from their assignment, what should get done, won't and what they do instead, won't be done as well as it could be done.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, pray that God would help people narrow their focus to what God has assigned and anointed them to do. Pray for clarity of purpose. May God grant to them a laser-like vision of possibility. Pray for those who have lost their dream and the energy to pursue it. Pray that God would revive and renew people and their purpose. May much be accomplished, as even well-intended distractions are set aside to fulfill the calling God has placed upon us.

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

- PNC

I'm excited for church today. It's always interesting when a church begins something new or charts a different course. Planning, strategy, process and understanding all come in to play. A knowledge of who you are, where you've been and where you want to go; and more importantly, where God would have you to go.

This is vision-casting.

And it's critical.

A church fails without a clear purpose.
A church fails when it loses it's purpose.
A church fails when the people disengage from the purpose
A church fails when leadership improperly presents the purpose.

If we have learned anything as society moves forward through 2018, from the transition that culture has made in recent decades, is that for as much as they church has gained through great vision, they have lost their impact from a lack of great vision. So while it's an exciting time for the church, the current state of our culture tells us that it's an incredibly critical time for the church.

Time moves too fast for us to be inefficient.
People are too valuable for us to be ineffective.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray for the church; that we would not only have a clear purpose and great vision, but that it would be presented in such a way to increase engagement, rather than disengagement. Pray for a spirit of unity within the body of Christ as we take intentional steps forward to what God has called. Pray for the church that are in trouble; suffering from a loss of vision and engagement. Pray that their hearts would be ignited and that their minds would be able to dream again. Pray for wisdom and discernment amidst the pastors and church leadership; that they would be hear and respond to the voice of God directing them in the ways in which they should lead their congregation and best impact their community and the world at-large.

Effective to greater degrees.
Efficient at increased levels.
Grateful for the history.
Honored to be writing the future.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I trust you had an awesome experience this morning during your church service, whether in person or online. We started a new series this morning, on the movement of God. And what a powerful message as well as a time of worship.

Though, as typical my mind was thinking while I was worshiping. While singing the song I Just Wanna Be Where You Are, I recalled the story of the prodigal. While it's a powerful story of God's grace and longing for relationship to be restored with humanity that has gone a far off into the distance, I found myself asking...

What if the son never leaves?

What happens if he doesn't walk away. He stays close to his father, under his leadership, helping to accomplish the goals and dreams of the family. What if he stays and continues to work alongside his brother?

What if, instead of walking away to pursue and live his own life, he steps out and goes into the world to do even greater things than his father had done... for what father doesn't want their child to go above and beyond whatever it is that they have achieved?

It's a very unhealthy relationship that a father wouldn't want his child to accomplish and experience less than he had achieved. God has great and greater things in store for us!

Having said that, it's hard to be effective for the kingdom of God if we are not where God is. As pastor stated this morning... if only we could come to grips with the fact that God is always moving. Thus the work is never done and every time we do not follow in the direction He is going, our ability to be effective and efficient is hindered and both the church as an institution and the people of God as a community fall behind.

On this #effectiveSunday, let's pray for an increased sensitivity to the still, small whisper of God and the gentle prompting of the Holy Spirit. Pray that we not find ourselves in such a state that we miss the voice and prompting to the degree that drastic measures and circumstances are in order to bring us to our senses, such as the prodigal experienced. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous in the lives of those who desire a greater spiritual acuity to the things of God. May the hardness and harshness of the world and the church for that matter, not take a toll on our hearts, minds and spirits that we dismiss God's moving in our lives and on our behalf. May the church be greater today than it was yesterday, because we recognized God's moving and followed accordingly.

To be where He is
Both in this life
And in the life to come.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I trust you've had a wonderful Mother's Day.

I was a little thrown off in writing yesterday's post, that between that and the holiday, my direction for today was well... nowhere to be found. So I trust that you've had a great day and made the most of it.

Which leads us to this matter of hindrances.

There's all sorts of reasons for a lack or shortage of effectiveness and efficiency in ministry. Sometimes it's a matter of discipline. Other times it's a matter of resources. Perhaps fear. The list, if not endless, will certainly take more time to write than it will for you to read.

But as I reflected on the timing of this church's tragic loss of their pastor and today's celebration of motherhood, the conflict and tension between effectiveness and ineffectiveness is strong.

Indeed, losses sustained that are beyond our control play a huge role. Especially when that loss is through people parting from this life or simply parting ways. On this mother's day, strained relationships, likewise contribute greatly in the health, accomplishment and success that one enjoys.  Bad decisions and poor choices haunt us all, laced with words we'd rather not have said, sentiments we'd rather have not shared and attitudes and actions that we'd been better off to not display.

We're desirous for people to be true to themselves while asking them to conform anytime and everytime there is an offense, whether real or perceived. Does this not lay the groundwork for greater hypocrisy? A hindrance that is perhaps close to the top of that list we didn't delve into at great length. How can the church and it's ministry be effective if we allow the hindrances in our lives to affect our response to God's working in our lives and the Holy Spirits' drawing us into greater things for the advancement of the kingdom of God?

I'm listening to the Benjamin Gate softly as I write this and the song Hands just played.

On this Mother's Day of an #effectiveSunday, will you make these words your prayer?

Jesus I feel you near me   *  Your hands giving life to my body
Your spirit healing me  *  Holding my heart in sweet security
God I need your grace  *  Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  *  Let your grace shine through me
Jesus You fill the space in me  *  Sealing these dreams in shapes of purity  *  Freeing my heart to deep eternity
God I need your grace  * Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  * Let your grace shine through me
God I seek your face  *  Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  *  Let your grace shine through me

Let it be so; unhindered.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Effectiveness and efficiency relies on so many moving parts and pieces... and people.

And sometimes difficult circumstances prompt difficult conversations. Especially when the attempts to get things done that result in a sense of effectiveness seems be inefficient or worse, non-existent.

So what gives?

A hard conversation.
A reality check.
A decision.

Nothing can be resolved, if nothing is noticed.
Nothing can be changed, that isn't first owned.

So, if there's a problem in reaching one's desired level of effectiveness and efficiency, it begins and ends with the one who has the desire.

This isn't directed at you. I'm preaching to myself. I'm living it myself. And not five or ten years ago, like I should have learned. Here and now. The learning process doesn't stop at adulthood. If anything, school is an education on the process of learning. I used to reflect in college, of how I wanted to be a student of life, for life.

What was I thinking? The lessons get harder. The refining fire of the work of the Holy Spirit gets hotter. And the iron sharpening iron... well, it doesn't create a pleasant sound during the process, but it's necessary for both to become better for the task which they were created.

On this very personal #effectiveSunday, pray that God would help us to do the things that need to be done, at the time and place they are necessary. Pray that God would increase the awareness and understanding of both the realities and the truth as to how God would have us handle it. May we be sensitive to the work of the Holy Spirit, even when the refining fire is hot and uncomfortable. Pray for strength to persevere; to continue to do what is right, even when it is incredibly hard.

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

- PNC

We all wish to be in a different place tomorrow than we are today. And today, we may wish that yesterday wasn't nearly as bad, risky or difficult as we made it out to seem. Then again, maybe it really was and where we are today is exactly right.

Whatever the circumstance is, effectiveness comes by making the best decision you can with the information you have and what environment you are able to live with, for those elements which you have control or influence over.

Is regret real? Yes, but so is the ability to do things differently today as well as the conviction to continue with what you set out to do and figure out the best way to move forward, for whatever needs to change.

Too much worry and concern and "woulda, shoulda, coulda" only robs the energy and focus that you have today so that you don't have that same sentiment tomorrow. In fact, if you spend too much time in that realm, it will start overtaking tomorrows resources before you get there!

We'll worry about tomorrow tomorrow and we said that yesterday.

So whatever today looks like, whether in your life, your faith or your ministry, make it work and make it count. Live with the best of your reality, overcome the worst of that reality and trust God will all of your reality.

It may not feel efficient, it may not look effective; but line upon line, precept upon precept, we walk one step at a time; His lamp to our path and His light to our feet.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that regret and struggle would not frustrate today's reality. Pray for courage of conviction and follow-through to implement the decisions we make. Pray for wisdom and direction, in making those decisions; that we not leave out seeking the face of God and the counsel of wise friends and people of faith. May we be empowered by the Holy Spirit and encouraged by the grace of God, that He is sovereign over all things. Pray that fear would not hinder us, nor our mistakes hold us back from grabbing onto the promises of God and seeing them established and at work in our lives.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.
We are over-comers
Because of His great love for us.

- PNC

I had an idea for today's post and somewhere while getting ready for church, I lost it.

Which is what happened at church during the first service... their internet went down. Along with the livestream of the service. :-(

I love technology. And I look forward to going to church and being a part of the community of believers.

And for all the effort, time and prayer that goes into prepping and planning for service, which is all good and well, truly, only a couple of things are needed.

People who are ready to seek the face of God
Someone ready to deliver the Word of God
Hearts ready to hear and respond to the Word of God.

Everything else, while cool, is extra.

Sadly for many churches, one or more of these elements are missing. And while my friend is bummed the internet is down and their team is working on the solution, the word of God goes forth. And it won't be a slow communication response from the cable company that we should be worried about, but a quick response time to the prompting and moving of God and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

For all our efforts and abilities to create a church experience; what we truly need every time we gather, is for a personal encounter with God in His throne-room of grace.

Let's pray to that end, this #effectiveSunday. Pray that the Word of God would go forth and that His hand would touch hearts and lives anew and afresh. Pray that as we gather to worship, that Christ would gather in our midst. Pray that hearts would be ready to receive and minds would be open to be changed by the truth of God's Word. May we allow the power of the Holy Spirit to work within us; not towards perfection, but towards bearing a greater image of Christ to the world around us.

That the people of God
Would gain a fresh revelation of God
For a greater relationship with God
And to be a greater reflection of God.
All for His glory.

- PNC

Isn't amazing, the power of communication?

Statements can be expressed with only a look.
Other statements, can be made only once and have an ever-lasting impact.

I'm thinking of a guy in to the Dennis Prager show on Friday and shared the advice he saved with his daughter and soon to be son-in-law before they walked down the aisle. He looked at his future SIL and told him that nothing he could ever do would make his daughter happy. He continued, by telling him that that didn't absolve him of the responsibility of doing everything he could every day, to make his daughter happy.

Wow. What profound truth! And to do this day, they are happily married and I'm sure they will never forget that advice.

Then there's the conversation that I had yet again, with my oldest daughter, before getting ready for church.

God loves you. We love you. And that's all that matters.
God has a plan for your life. He wants what's best for you. And that's what we want too.

And that's what matters.
And I will win this conversation every time... because I would rather fight for you, than fight with you.

How many times, did I have horrible days at school, and yet that was the message I heard from my parents. Often. Repeatedly. Daily. And yet, they knew then what I know now. Some messages are worth having to tell seemingly constantly, to ensure the right message reaches the depths of one's soul so that when they are old, they will not forget the words they heard in their youth.

Which is exactly what I told my daughter. I want you to grow to be an adult who knows who they are and whose they are and I will fight your feelings with truth every time. If for no other reason, than I'm Dad and this is what I'm here to do.

Does that not sound like the very message that humanity needs to hear from our Heavenly Father? And how often do we have our days where we need that message from yet. And as much as He never tires of telling us of His love and destiny for our lives, neither should we grow tired in repeatedly sharing the same message.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray the message of the Gospel, and the grace and love of God would be effective as it goes forth. Whether it's heard for the first time or the thousandth, may the clarity reach the depths of the heart in those who need to hear it. May it be well-received and life changing. Pray the power of the Holy Spirit would move in the midst of those who gather together. Pray for the conversations and interactions that will occur among both friends and strangers; that the right words would be spoken, advice given and help offered.

May lives be transformed,
By the truth of God
For His glory
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

We pray every Sunday for the effectiveness of the church. And as I ponder "getting ready for service" this morning, I got to thinking about those stepping into church today.

Churches are as dynamic and diverse as the people who attend them. The character and nature of their existence is as varied as the personalities of those who sit in the sanctuary or lounge in the lobby.

The old chorus about gathering at the river has become a gathering at the coffee bar. Which, don't get me wrong, I love... this is 2018 and it's where community happens. So, don't get offended; I was smiling as I typed.

So, I do pray that the church is effective as ministry goes forth, in the sermon and in the lobby and for the kids and the youth and every corner and square foot of every church campus.

Having said all of that, while their is a church for every person, not every person fits in the same style and format of service. People who gathered together in one church may find themselves down the road, attending two different churches that are nothing like each other; nor the previous church they attended together.

But God knows where everyone is, not only on a physical level, but also where the mind is as well as the heart. We trust that He knows what we have need of, regarding how He would desire to minister to us, in addition to where and how He would use to minister to others.

So, whether you hear or say the words, "just visiting" in today's service, know that God is at work, in divinely placing people where the ministry of the church will be effective in their lives and where they can effectively minister to the body of Christ and the community at large.

And while the process does feel as intimate as a courting relationship and as much a matter of personal preference as a cup of coffee, that's okay. Jesus Christ used a different method at every encounter... all to communicate the same message of His love and truth.

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that not only would the church be effective in their ministry, but those in service would encounter God. Pray for those trying to find their place. Whether stepping into the church for truly, the very first time or in the process of a change for whatever reason, may God work in their hearts and minds. May they sense His presence and may God bring a confirmation into their spirit that they would know, this is the community of believers in which God desires for them to be partake and engage in ministry. Pray today would be a day that once again, hearts and minds would be open to the moving of God and the direction of the Holy Spirit. May the truth of His Word change lives, renew minds and refresh our souls.

That we would be more effective in the days to come
Because of the effectiveness of the body of Christ
As we gather today in His name.
In the fellowship of the lounge;
In the praise of the sanctuary.

- PNC

Jesus is Risen! He is Risen, indeed!

It's hard on Resurrection Sunday, the day in which we celebrate Christ's conquering of death, hell and the grave, to consider just how much "work" goes into living a life of faith in God. And yet, as I'm certain I've stated in previous years, the words "It Is Finished" as an incredible sentiment.

In fact, Easter Sunday remains, perhaps the most #effectiveSunday ever!

Which is utterly amazing. Just as amazing though, are some thoughts on Passover itself, which of course, now that I was looking for a particular reference point, I can't locate it.

But consider this.

The people of Israel depart from Egypt the day after the angel of death passes over.
Christ departs, the day after having celebrated Passover with His disciples.

And the southern kingdom, operated on a different calendar than Christ and the northern kingdom. So their preparation of the Passover was consistent with the preparation of the lamb, only in this case, the Lamb of God.

What I find chilling... the sky going dark. It's representative of the angel of death claiming the first born. Only this time, the first born of Heaven; Christ's blood covering the doorpost of the Earth for the rest of humanity.

We all have times, where we can't see ourselves completing the task or seeing a process through to the end. If Jesus suggested His willingness to exit stage left before the final scene should that be a viable option, how prone are we to want to do the same? Nevertheless, He remained to the closing curtain, only to rip it apart, in order that there wouldn't be just an eruption of eternal gratitude but an invitation into relationship with the Father.   

How awesome, is the sovereign timing of the Hand of God; if for the love of His firstborn, how much more His created being! And the work of His Hand, throughout the Earth to our innermost corner of the soul.

A holy work.
A refining work.
A transforming work.
A perfecting work.
A diving work.
A personal work.
A redemptive work.
A finished work.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that many would come to know this work; His work... of the love of God to liberate us from our sinful state. Pray that we would know Christ like never before; possessing a greater understanding, appreciation and purpose of His life. May those around us see Christ in us, that we would display His love and grace to a world in desperate need of Him. Pray that new life would arise, as the life of Christ is raised.   May we be faithful to complete the work that God has started in us, as much as Christ remained  in the Father, that He might complete His ordained work on this Earth.

Effective for the cause of Christ
For the glory of God
That eternity would be forever changed.
Again.

- PNC                                 

We've talked and discussed many times on effectiveness and efficiency and the balance of doing well and "getting it right" and planning, all in an effort to do well from the start. But life and reality don't always work that way.

While we could produce quite a list of things that we've had to revisit and redo as we reflect on previous days and past events, perhaps one activity should consistently remind you that some things always need to be revisited a second time, no matter how well you did on the first attempt.

Painting.

Though the first coat came out pretty good, there were a number of spots that needed touch-up. And the area that got its' first coat yesterday... half looks really good, the other half, when viewed at the right angle... yeah, we'll be doing that section a second time.

Painting is also the one activity where efficiency is somewhat relative. Largely, because the prep work that is involved and the clean-up afterwards. It's not one of those to-do list items that you can look at and say, "I've got a 15 minute window; I can get some painting done!"  No... it's not happening. You'd be better off reading this or one of the other 1,000 plus posts on this website and spending a few minutes in prayer.

The power of perspective also comes into consideration. Time allows you to see things from a different vantage point and a different understanding of how things work and look and the approach which might need to be taken the second time around. Even the third and fourth time, if necessary.

Having said of that, there is one act that was the most effective and most efficient thing to ever happen.

One Man took on the sins of the world.

On this #effectiveSunday of a #PalmSunday, pray that God would do the miraculous in the midst of His people who gather in His name. Pray for grace, forgiveness and restoration, for those who feel as though they've blown and ruined various events, lives and circumstances. May the healing power of the Christ do a great and mighty work in their hearts and minds and may the Holy Spirit go with them as they move forward from this day. May we remember with wonder, awe and humility the effect that Christ had upon this world when He came in to alignment with God's plan for His life.

As we reflect on the passion of Jesus' life,
May we live with passion for Jesus' life.
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel
His Kingdom to reign, now and forevermore.

- PNC

There's so much that contributes to effectiveness. And sometimes there is very little efficiency involved in the process at all. You can try, but life and timing and other delays just enter in the picture and as such, are beyond your control. It's fine. You can be upset and frustrated, or you can roll with it.

For all the times over the past three years that we've discussed effectiveness, I had a pretty interesting experience last night. Let's just say, the one thing that you don't plan for; that you don't give proper consideration; that you don't think about it being an issue... and not just you, but those with you; those working on the project with you. You get to the end. Everything is complete. Done. Finished. Let's implement it and go.

And... not so much. The one thing became everything and yeah... that's not gonna work.

Plan B!

The next day is a little more comforting, as you hope your time and effort from the first round isn't wasted. Because in the moment, you can't help but feel the frustration and agony of failure. And stupidity for that matter, as you wonder how you missed something so simple! But again, it doesn't take much. It doesn't take much at all, to be exact.

And when things need to be exact, well, the slightest bit counts. There are times where effectiveness and work-ability really is a binary matter. Yes or no. On or off. It works or it doesn't. It fits or it doesn't.

So what's the prayer?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that such moments would not ruin the moment. Pray for the remembrance that life is a journey, a fun one for as often as it is frustrating. Pray for the help of the Holy Spirit to keep things in proper perspective, not only in light of eternity, but in light of wisdom, knowledge and understanding. Pray that the frustration, even when the moments duplicate and multiply, would not lead to feelings of failure, nor depression or defeat. Pray that those involved would rise again, try again and pursue again; to find answers and solutions to problems and situations they didn't even know existed until they encountered it first hand for themselves.

That as God works all things together for good,
May He work even the most frustrating moments
To bring about good out of our lives to reach those around us;
And the stories that we tell in the days to come.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

"The future of the church depends on discerning leadership." - John McArthur

Listening to John expound on the concept of discernment and how churches of late have compromised between the direction of society and culture versus the truth and understanding of God's Word and one thing is clear...

You can not serve two masters.

You can't serve God and money.
You can't serve God and society.

In recent decades, society has made one thing very clear. They don't want God in the public square. In doing so, the floodgates have been opened for pretty much anything and everything to be aired and displayed in said square. Such decisions and activities have led many to ask;

Is nothing sacred? Is there no shame?

The methods of ministry may change, the message, however, should not.

As such, it should be noticeable as well as disconcerting, when the distinction between the word of God and the communication of man is negligible to non-existent. Some churches may thrive and those that attend may find comfort, while others that attend leave unsettled; recognizing that the message of Christ has been compromised. It may be obvious, it may be subtle; but if anything that places emphasis on us as the believer to know the Word (again, I'm standing at the front of the line)

How will the church be effective for God if we are diluting the power of His Word in our communicating the message of Christ and the Cross? Is it possible we've become more concerned about offending man rather than offending God? This is how the church gets distracted, derailed and ultimately, desensitized to the power and moving of the Holy Spirit's leading.

And on that note, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, nothing would distract, derail nor desensitize the church and the ministry of the body of Christ from the power and moving of the Holy Spirit. May we be ever aware of the hand of God upon our lives, the calling and directive that He has imparted to us and the leading of His Spirit as we walk in these present times. Pray for wisdom and discernment; that while the church maintains a spirit of unity, may we not rely in our own understanding and agreement while misunderstanding and being misaligned with God. Pray a spirit of distinction, for indeed God's people, though in the world, have been set apart, for His Divine calling and purposes.

May we be about being who He created us to be.
In fellowship with Him
And engaged in impacting our world.
Effective to the end,
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC