I woke up this morning thinking about prayer. Perhaps because pastor started a new sermon series last week on the subject (which we missed, meaning I'll have to listen to it this week). Or perhaps... I don't know. My train of thought just got derailed and  destroyed.

We know the power of prayer. Perhaps some level of the importance of prayer. We've even been witness to the answering of prayer.

What's amazing about it, though is what is accomplished.

Systems work better when the are in sync and collaboration towards a common purpose.
Processes work more efficiently when tasks are done in order and the various parts are in alignment and in place with where they were intended to be. There is a synergy, to borrow one of my pastor friends' favorite word.

Without prayer, where would you be? Where would I be? The family? Our lives? The church and its' ministries?
On the surface, in our minds, we know the answer.

But, deep down in our heart of hearts with a solid foundation of faith, do we fully comprehend and fulfill our understanding that prayer works as we position ourselves in alignment with heaven. 

How cool is what? What a privilege. What a responsibility. What an honor. What a humbling experience.

On this first #effectiveSunday, I have but one purpose... that as I pray and as the church prays, may we find ourselves aligned with the plans and purposes of Heaven. From His throne, may God hear our prayers, heal our land and move mightily among us.

God, do a great work in us
As we work to great exploits
For the cause of Jesus Christ
And the kingdom of heaven.

- PNC

1000.

I'm humbled that God has answered my prayer thus far. Furthermore, I'm grateful for your joining me on this matter, of raising awareness of ministry burnout and holding pastors and church leadership before the Lord in prayer.

I remember back in May of 2015 when God started giving me a hard time about this website. It has been online for a few years, but I was not diligent in working on it. And I remember specifically, the Holy Spirit dealing with mind, when the realization hit...

"You have a page titled "Daily Prayers" and you aren't posting to that page, daily?"

Yeah... that seemed problematic to me as well.

So... "Lord, I'm going to need your help. Because if I do this on my own, it will become repetitious in about 7-10 days."

And here we are... 1000 days after the official revamp of www.bringme70.com that went into effect 6/1/15.

I haven't looked at the traffic reports for the website in a very long time, maybe almost a year. I used to look daily. I'd be excited and encouraged one day, and bummed out the next. I'm still curious and one of these days will satisfy that curiosity. But whether one of you joins me in praying for pastors or 70 or 70000, there won't be power in agreement if I stop.

Trust me... It's not like I haven't wanted to. 60 hr weeks and family, plus some kind of life. There are days I don't have time.

But effectiveness is found in faithfulness.

Thanks for joining with me and while I appreciate your prayers that God would help me continue this effort, on this #effectiveSunday let us continue to pray for pastors and church leaders and crew who continue to serve in ministry. For all the days, they would rather give it up, because there is only 1 instead of 100 or 1000, may the continue to be faithful. And in there service to the kingdom of God, may He grant to them incredible effectiveness.

For the cause of Jesus Christ
We rejoice in the work of the Lord
By the gracious and almighty hand of God.

- PNC

I think it's fairly obvious to say that some environments are more conducive to effectiveness than others. There's purpose, there is planning. There is a reality that certain tasks and performances were meant and intended for a specific space.

We don't cook in the bathroom.
We don't perform surgery in the back of the garage.
And AA meetings are not conducted in the bar!

Conversely, the church is about being a place of worship; a place to encounter the presence of God.

Is it the only place where such moments can happen? Absolutely not!

But if it was designed for that purpose, should it not be the place that is most effective in fulfilling that purpose?

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that today would be a great day, of people experiencing the power of Almighty God. May lives be changed for eternity Pray that as people enter, hearts would be healed, strength renewed and minds at peace. Pray that marriages would be restored and families made whole. May God be glorified as faith is challenged and fortified. Pray.the name of the Lord would be lifted high as the people of God arise.

Effective.
For the cause of Jesus Christ
For the advancement of the kingdom of God.

- PNC

As I thought this morning about effectiveness and how, at times there is such much to be done, that it doesn't really matter where you start (since it ALL needs to be done), I remember that unless you are working solo, something must occur first.

Whether in partnership with one person or working with many, whatever the task may be and whatever the timeline to get "it" done, there is power in agreement.

This doesn't dismiss nor ignore the reality of conflict. Not everyone will agree on the purpose or the plan. Nor will there be a lack of conversation, argument and fight along the way. If the history of accomplishment has taught us anything, it's that there is often a long, tenuous and tedious road between the presented problem and the implemented solution.

However, the quicker terms of agreement are reached, the sooner the power that results can be applied to moving towards the desired goal or outcome from one's present circumstance.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that as the church moves forward in its' endeavors, may their be a spirit of unity and agreement. May the process of discussion and discourse not destroy or dissuade people from pursuing and achieving solutions to the problems and challenges they face. Pray today would be a day of victory and success, for the glory of God and the advancement of the kingdom of Heaven. May ego's, personal agenda's, personality conflicts and the like not stand in the way of what God desires to accomplish through the church and the calling and mission that He has placed upon them regarding the communities they serve.

Power in agreement.
Power in prayer.
Power in unity for a common cause.
The cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Computers continue to teach us a powerful lesson, often on more than one occasion. It's a principle that applies to finances and memorials, and matters of great significance and importance.

It's the power of saving.

Yesterday morning, I nearly had the #communitySaturday post finished. Maybe a couple sentences away from the finishing thoughts on the prayer. And my funky, ill-timed computer and its' evil tricks, shut off. And the publishing platform doesn't always auto-save as fast as my thoughts allow me to type.

So I was on a roll, then it was lost. And this isn't the first time this has happened. Over the past 980 consecutive days of writing these #pray4pastors posts, there have been a number of them that have been rewritten to varying degrees, because I didn't save the work between thoughts, or the computer moved or something else, that things just went dark.

Such moments are neither effective, nor efficient.

Time lost to restarting the machine and logging in. Time lost to retrace my steps and mentally remember what phrases and thoughts were written down. You didn't notice it, but between "down." and "You" I just lost 20 seconds... to hit the save button and then reopen the draft and continue.  #lessonlearned. This time, at least.

It's amazing, though, how one's past intersects with one's current reality. They've either messed up and learned, having vowed and proven to either never be in such circumstances again or to handle the matter differently should such time repeat itself. Conversely, the mistakes of the past can and are easily repeated at which time, you realize they are not the person you want leading the way.

The significance of one's accomplishments particularly from the perspective of being effective and efficient lie greatly in what has been saved along the journey and the lessons that have been learned as they have kept and dismissed various situations, difficulties and decisions.

Wisdom comes from learning. The lessons with the greatest, lasting impact are the ones often learned the hard way and at times, repeatedly.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that the lessons we learn, would indeed leave a lasting impact. May we gain wisdom and discern wisely, what we should save and what we should dismiss as we travel this life. May our impact neither be diminished nor hindered because of lost time and energy in having repeated matters that could have been avoided. Pray God would help us not to carry guilt or frustration into areas and matters of life where it has no place or justification. May we trust and cast our lives and concerns at the Cross, that we may be used for God's plans and purposes.

Effective... because of His Work in us.
Even when we seemingly work against Him.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Long-time performer in the Christian Music industry, Bryan Duncan has a song that he performed with the NehoSoul Band titled Don't Help The Devil. It's off the Music City Live album, which I just got a copy of this past week and it's a great album if you can find it.

But the words of this struck with me last night as I considered the kinds of words and attitudes that stand in the way when it comes to the church as an organization and the body of Christ as a people being effective in their ministry.

Sure we can over-sensitize matters and be hyper-critical of people, but at the same time, we don't always realize the moments and times in which we may be helping the devil's cause to destroy the faith rather helping the Lord's cause to build it up.

Bryan and the band point out... don't help the devil. He's doing fine on his own.

All too fine, some might emphasize.

But when we find ourselves in attitudes, words, thoughts and emotions that are out of alignment with how God desires to live; that are out of place in our walk with Christ; that are not prompted and activated by the word of the Holy Spirit in our lives...

Such moments are the detriment to our effectiveness in ministry rather than the enhancement of that ministry.

Thus, let's pray this #effectiveSunday. May God help us to live and be His people, that He has called us to be and do. Pray that we would not find ourselves speaking and behaving in ways that ding our testimony than promote it. May there be a sensitivity to the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives; not to be over-righteous, but to live a real and true faith and trust in God. While we are far from perfect, may we ever be aware that we are in pursuit of the high calling of God; being conformed, transformed and renewed to reflect the image of Christ to a world in desperate need of His grace, love, forgiveness and truth.

Helping the cause of Christ.
One day at time,
One live at a time.
As He works in us
His Will and His Purpose
To the glory of God the Father.

- PNC

There truly is a powerful and brilliant message, behind Clint Eastwood's movie, Trouble With The Curve. Clint Eastwood plays an old school baseball scout who has a tenuous relationship with his daughter, who is making a run for partner at her law firm. Meanwhile, Clint's character, Gus is to go scout this young baseball player, Bo Gentry; but with eye-sight that is starting to give him trouble, Gus's daughter is convinced into helping Gus on this trip and hopefully repair their relationship in the process.

It turns out, Bo, for all his talent and potential, can't hit it a curve ball. Of course, the climax of this circumstance comes towards the end of the movie, after everyone is convinced this kid is a gold-mine of a baseball player. However, when the devastating truth comes out... wow. Talk about a "how did this get missed" moment.

Well, except for Gus... who with eye-sight on the decline heard through the power of sound that something was wrong with Bo's swing.

I'm writing this post service (ran out of time this morning), so if you'll permit a little leeway...

Today is Sanctity of Life Sunday. And the message was simply titled: #speaklife.

Obviously there is power in positive words and speaking "life" into people and circumstances, but this was an emphasis on the power and importance of life. From the point of conception to one's last breath.

And on this #effectiveSunday, I found myself juxtaposing the lesson on the movie and the power of the issue of life. Society as a whole and even the culture within the church thinks and considers itself to have it together; to play a great game and exist with an unlimited amount of potential. We've convinced ourselves that we are good and doing good work while we utterly the destroy the lives of the unborn.

Like Bo, we can handle most the game, until someone throws a curve. Likewise with issue of pregnancy. We can handle most of life, until an un-timely or un-desired pregnancy, whatever the circumstances are that surround it, is considered as being thrown a curve. And rather than learning how to win through the circumstance, we choke. And the result is a disastrous display of the unbelievable.

On that note, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church would not be caught off guard by the unexpected. May we be prepared for all circumstances and situations; to live and be victorious. Pray that we would be people that would stand a counter-culture to the world, and speak life and speak up for life. May the issue of life and birth not be the downfall of humanity as we have utterly destroyed the womb and the unborn. Pray God's forgiveness over this nation; that we have allowed such an unbelievable display of recklessness define multiple generations, having justified our decisions throw words that are a disgrace to the glory of an everlasting and loving God.

Lord, help us.
That we would not have trouble with the curve.
But live life right. And speak for what is right.
For the glory of God and His righteousness.

- PNC

I read an article last night that outlined the advantages of having smaller churches of 100 rather than a mega-church of 5000. You can do the math. And while it raised some interesting and certainly valid points, many of which we have prayed over daily these past two and half years, I read it with the continual reminder of a phrase often heard around our church.

The larger we get, the smaller we need to get.

An intentional approach.

Increased responsibilities come, but if pastors and staff aren't prepared to grow with them...
Financial issues and problems exist across the board.
Larger churches may prevent more people from stepping into ministry, thinking they aren't qualified for such tasks or responsibilities.
It's easy to get focused on the quantity of people and status rather than the quality of the ministry and the health of the church.

Yet for all these and more, if we focus on intentional ministry...

... allowing more people to minister, as if they were taking on smaller groups rather than being overwhelmed.
... more contribution and participation from the entire church, as if whatever they were doing depended on everyone doing something to come alongside and help.
... focus on growing people and depth of faith, rather than growing congregations and influence of the church.

Being effective and efficient is like being a well-oiled machine. The equipment working together; quality parts doing quality work at the time and place that they are called upon to perform.

And yet the church falls apart, when high-quality people minister in less than quality ways at the wrong time and place.

So, no matter the size of the church in which you are apart, pray this #effectiveSunday that God would help us be intentional in all that we say and do. Pray that churches would be about quality ministry and developing mature faith. Pray that God would give wisdom; and call forth those He would desire to use for greater ministry to those in both the church and the community to help carry the load, reach the lost and impact those in need.

Intentional.
In our hearts, minds, attitudes and words.
In all we do, for the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Daydreaming.

We've all done it.  I'm sure we'd love to do it more often if we could. And the reason I'm certain both of those are true, is because we've all looked at the clock at some point in the day and realized, "Um, I/We had best get a move on!"

Daydreaming is a refreshing break in the short term and may even bring about an inspirational and transformational change to a situation or circumstance.

A break in one's day is understandable. A break in one's life is problematic.

I don't know about you, but I've always wondered about people, who when asked how they are doing respond with "I'm living the dream!" Really? Although, I have one friend in particular, who when he says that, I think, "I feel like you're living mine". And parts of my life don't seem like a dream I'd dream... but that doesn't mean someone else wouldn't take it if it was offered to them.

So, to that end, we discover that there needs to be a contentment within our lives while simultaneously possessing a drive towards the life of which we dream.

A vision is like fishing.

What good comes from casting it if one is unwilling to invest the time and effort to reel it in?

Thanks for joining us for another #effectiveSunday and as we go forth, let's pray that today would be an effective and productive day, not only for our lives, but for the ministries that advance the kingdom of God. May we not get caught endlessly daydreaming, but casting meaningful and purposed vision. Pray that we would continue to seek first the kingdom of God and encourage others to do the same, followed by His plan and purpose that He has placed in our hearts. May envy and jealousy be far from us; that the spirit of comparison would not dominate our frame of mind. Pray that we would live and lead the life and faith to which God has called us; not someone else's dream, but His dream for our lives.

That our lives would point to none other
Than the person of Jesus Christ
And the work of the Holy Spirit within us
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

There's an old saying that like most, is quite simple and yet, as I passed while scrolling through my social media feed that I was browsing last night, I was struck by it's profound insight... perhaps distracted by thoughts of the New Year.

The life instruction reads as follows:

"To heal a wound, you have to stop touching it."

I'm sure, like you, many things have transpired in 2017 that have done damage and pain, whether it be physical, emotional, psychological, financial, relational or spiritual. And while we promise, hope and pray that things will go and be better in 2018, it's hard not to mess with and be reminded by the issues that have resulted from the instances and moments that we would rather forget than relive.

Yet, by not leaving the wound alone to heal, we sabotage our effectiveness and progress in the area and arenas of life that are strong and whole. We keep trying to move forward while focusing on a matter that just might work itself out if we stopped messing with it.

And I understand, there's a balance at work. In the literal sense, there's a check-up and a care-taking to the process and that's fine. But more often than not, the healing takes longer than it should because we continue to interfere with the process.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, as we prepare to step into 2018, let's pray, that this would be a day that we leave the wounds of life alone. Pray the efforts of ministry and church life would not be hindered nor detoured by that which has gone wrong, but empowered by that which has gone right. Pray for a spirit of rejuvenation and revitalization as we enter this new year, stronger and more whole than ever before. Pray for a renewed resolve in our pursuit of the kingdom and righteousness of God. May that which was meant to destroy us be used to propel us into the abundant life that Christ came to present and fulfill for the redemption of humanity.

For a new day has dawned
And a new year awaits on the next horizon.
This is the day the Lord has made
Let us rejoice and be glad in it.
With every part of our being
Both that which is whole and broken.
We are His and for His glory.

- PNC

We've talked a lot over these days of prayer, that the fulfillment of effectiveness is seeing things through to completion. And the Christmas season, in fact the entirety of the Christmas story, is no different.

The very power of the miracle of Christmas, is the glorious completion and accomplishment of Christ' ministry to the end of the crucifixion and on the other side of the resurrection.

For indeed, what would the joy of the promise of this miraculous birth be, without the promise of His return for those who awaited and believed in God's redemptive plan for humanity?

It turns out, as Christ is our example for so many other aspects of our life, that even in His humble beginnings, the effectiveness of the story of His birth is as great as it is because of His ending.

Christ's Mass.
The Gospel story is the one and the same, Christmas story.

How awesome!

Pray, this #effectiveSunday of a Christmas Eve, that God would accomplish the miraculous once again. May today be a day of truth, revelation and liberation, as the presence of God fills our hearts and minds with the power of His Story. Pray the people of God would be effective in reaching those who've yet to realize the promise of God, through the birth of Jesus Christ. May today be a celebration of life as we celebrate the life of Jesus; Immanuel, God with us.

For He is with us.
And works through us.
To fulfill His plans and purposes
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Isn't kinda funny how people and relationships work?

It's so easy how Christians can be so disheartened when they look at the world and take issue with what they are doing and know that life would be so much different and improved with a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Conversely, the world looks at the church, and gets frustrated by what Christians AREN'T doing and think, man if they only did what they preach (or what they understand to be Biblical or consistent with Christ's teachings).

Yet, in the end, effectiveness truly begins by knowing what we are to do and sticking to doing it and doing it well. Yes, we must spur others on to do the same, but it's of little meaning and effect if we aren't doing all that we can do and more, starting with ourselves.

And I'll be the first to say that is true in my own life.

Thus, on this #effectiveSunday, pray that we would be the church God has called us to be. Pray that we would walk in His ways and live according to His truths. May we engage the world, rather than criticize. May we speak truth in the face of falsehood. May we witness the grace of God in a world full of judgemental words. Pray today would be a day of reconciliation; of people both within and outside the four-walls of the church coming into greater relationship with God through the cross of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

To the betterment of humanity
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.
Let it be so, even this very day.

- PNC

I don't know about the rest of you, but December is shaping up to be a crazy month for our family. December already is a month we have to "ramp up" for already so to add a few more "few and far between" events to the equation seems like a "what were we thinking" reality.

That said, it seems to be the hand of God at work, so we going forward confident in His leading. But December remains a crazy, busy, overwhelming and stressful month for many of you and on a much grander and more time-consuming calendar than previous Decembers in my life.

So, how do we get through?

Make sure you take some time to have fun and not over-think the anxiety-inducing list that awaits your attention.

I know it sounds overtly basic and elementary, but it's true. And a timely reminder, as I watched the kids play in the first snowfall of the season yesterday afternoon. Even had finally collected over the past couple of days to cover most of the ground that we could at least throw a few snowballs and the created snow-angels. I didn't think there was enough to keep them entertained for an hour, but there we were.

Equally so, the break-away from the schedule is important for you as well. Some days you'll feel more effective than others; some days more efficient as you work to get things done... but both will be hindered if you fail to take time to breathe, enjoy where you are and look with positive anticipation to where your journey seems to be headed. An hour may not seem like much, but it could be just enough to remind you... it will all work out. One way or another, everything will get done.

On this snowy December Sunday as we pray for it to be an #effectiveSunday, let's pray for pastors who feel as though they have no time for fun and leisure. Pray for the stress and anxiety that has already begun to take it's toll, in their lives and relationships and ministries. May God strengthen and rejuvenate them anew and afresh, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray for those who would come alongside and encourage them and perhaps help them find a reprieve. May they make the time to laugh and enjoy the process of the journey, rather than be consumed by the tasks that await on many lists.

For laughter does like medicine.
May we go about life and ministry
Healthy and whole,
Rather than sick and incomplete.
Fired up for His purposes
As opposed to burnt out from the labor.
Effective and efficient for the cause of Christ.

- PNC

I heard a radio interview the other day on Moody Radio, where the morning show hosts were talking with a local pastor regarding ministry and burnout. As they were discussing a "typical" week in the life of a pastor, this pastor noted that a church can't bombard the pulpit with all sorts of situations and circumstances, conversations and problems all week long, and then expect that in a matter of hours between Friday night and Sunday morning, that one will be prepared, studied and prayed up to deliver an effective message and exposition of God's Word.

Preparedness.

We've talked it about it many times.

I was reminded about it again last less than 20 hours ago, as yesterday morning I had opportunity to hang out with a home inspector for a few hours.

Parents, do you want to prepare your teen/young adult for the gravity of decisions that they will want to consider and add to the equation as they figure out what they want to do with their life, vocation and lifestyle??

To wet their appetite, browse Craigslist for a 1500-2000 dollar car and ask the owner if you can take it to the local, reputable mechanic. Pay the 50-75 bucks for their time and have them print out a report. If everything were fixed, here's the cost. If you don't think that's a wake up call, may I remember you that up until the mid-90's, certain repairs on a Ferrari involved removing the engine! On repairs that weren't engine-related, like replacing the clutch.

A for a full understanding, send your young adult on a home inspection. Either to follow the person doing the inspection or have them accompany a friend is who buying a home and listen to the conversation. It's one thing to get excited about the potential of a place. But so much more that could be problematic. It's a thorough look, that requires crawling into spaces that aren't used on a daily basis... a crucial, behind the surface perspective that begins a long-term conversation.

These are the things that hinder one's effectiveness and efficiency. A lack of knowledge and understanding of the depths of what's involved in a matter. A lack of conversation to discuss problems and solutions and the work and cost involved to move from the current state to a corrected state.

Preparedness. The surface conversation and understanding often doesn't get to the deeper and more crucial place of importance that is capable of preventing trouble and difficulty.

And on that note, let's pray.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that pastors would indeed be prepared, even this very day; that they will have dug deep in their understanding and that in their message today, will move the church to the same crucial place of understanding. Pray for a balance in their lives and ministries, to not only properly handle the interruptions and disruptions as they arise, but to remain focused on the elements that truly matter in the fulfillment of their calling, anointing and purpose to the kingdom. Pray that God would place the right people in their circles to speak life, clarity and perspective... not to be a doomsayer or discourager, but to bring knowledge and understanding to the conversation.

Effective and efficient
Because the time and cost was paid
To move the conversation to a better level of preparedness.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I posted last night this thought... #ineedalist4mylists, in recognition of the craziness that seems to be close to unfolding in coming days and weeks. The holiday season is busy for everyone; some more than others when it comes to events and gatherings, whether of a personal or professional manner. Then there's the major life events that occur, normally throughout the rest of the year... specifically so that the holiday season can be somewhat enjoyed, rather than an all-out frenzy.

Regardless the focus of what needs to be done can very quickly diminish the wonder and awe of the moment and I would dare bet, that the more items that exist on those lists, the quicker the diminishing of the moment happens.

Thus, we while we may be effective and perhaps even efficient, in terms of taking care of what needs to be done, we will be miserable the entire time... for we most likely will have missed the joy of giving, care, sharing and serving with those around us.

I'm certainly prone to missing the mark in the coming days and perhaps you've done so, as well. Certainly, as churches and ministries head into their own craziness of events and outreaches, the same can occur on their campuses... at a time and season that is critical in the spiritual realm.

So pray, this #effectiveSunday, as we enter the Christmas season, that the lists will not overpower and detract our focus to minister and to be a blessing. Pray once again, for an increased awareness to share life and love as a representation of Christ. Pray for the preparation of hearts and minds; who have given up on God and lost hope for humanity. Starting today, pray that the process of healing and restoration would begin for those who've lost the joy and purpose of life and faith.

May today be the start of a miracle
And a season of miracles.
Filled with awe and wonder
At the mention of the name of Jesus.
For the honor and glory of God Almighty.

- PNC

I had an interesting idea the other regarding the Christian faith. In this fast paced, fast food, move faster-everything culture, we all too often expect God to move quickly. And yet, all too often that is not the case.

Meanwhile, there is one instance in which God quickly moves.

Salvation.

It is faster than drive-thru fast food!

God's presence is as quick as the mention of His name.

It is however, in the waiting upon God, seeking His face, trusting in Him and walking in obedience that is the long drawn out process.

It's the difference between a 2-3 minute wait in line and prepping 2-3 days in advance of the huge party of family and friends that is coming over for Thanksgiving!

Meanwhile, we take forever in coming to God, then expect Him to be hurried in moving on our behalf after accepting Christ.

Is it possible our frustration with God regarding His timing in our lives as believers is on par with His level of frustration with us while we were (are) still sinners?

Yes. The answer is yes.

The joy of being a Sovereign God for eternity; the story of our life for humanity.

I'm not saying at really does work this way. I'm saying in my finite wisdom, it certainly feels as though life works this way quite often. And for quite a few people as well.

Be that as it may, here is my prayer that I ask you join me in.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that many would be efficient in the coming to faith in God through Jesus Christ quickly. May they no longer delay the prompting and leading that is taking in place in their lives, bringing them to the realization of their need for a Savior. Pray for the effectiveness of the faith, that people would not be dismayed, detoured or derailed in the moments and circumstances where it's difficult to wait and persevere. Pray for strength, wisdom and patience in the decisions and challenges that we face. May we not quit on God as we wait. Pray for a renewal of our reliance on Him... regardless of how often we have to remind ourselves of some simple truths.

His thoughts are higher,
His ways are different.
Our minds are finite
While His timing is perfect.
For our lives are His
And He uses every moment for His glory.
Praise be to God, forever and ever.

- PNC

One of the Christmas movies that's been playing already as we enter the holiday season, as been about a corporate exec's search for the perfect Christmas tree to put in their company's business plaza in downtown Chicago. The tree they had planned to use at the beginning of the movie got damaged in transit and thus, the deadline began to find another.

They do, but the family has close ties to the tree and it's hard for them to consider donating it to  the cause. But as the story unfolds, the family talks about how the grandfather and grandmother had planted the tree decades ago, and were growing old together, watching their tree grow.

Effectiveness and growth is a long-term prospect. It requires vision. It requires hard work. It requires patience.

Most have a positive outlook and dream for such things. Yet, sadly as I look throughout this post-modern culture and society, I see more and more evidence that there are many who have a vision towards destruction and demise.

It certainly does appear there is an agenda, despite the confessions of many who seem to deny it. And I don't mean for this post to be to lean and move in that direction, except to point out that society's prolonged moved away from the things of God seems to be more effective than the calling and commission of the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, pray for a renewed commitment to the ministries of the church and the advancement of the Gospel. Pray today would be a day that lives are forever changed and transformed as the truth of Jesus Christ goes forth. Throughout the day, may hearts and minds be opened to receive from the Lord as much as they are to receive from that which society presents, which is detrimental to and decay for the soul. May God go before us in our efforts as we seek His face and rely upon Him to strengthen us each and every day.

To be about the work of the Lord
Despite culture's efforts to hinder the Gospel.
Though they are strength,
We can do all things through Christ who strengths us.
For the glory of God the Father
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Motivational speaker Justin Young says that “Great achievements are nothing more than a collection of small accomplishments.” 

It really is true. It's amazing how much can be done when even the littlest of tasks and responsibilities are taken care... even if they are not urgent or important. The couple of seconds or minutes it takes to get it done and out of the way does motivate one towards the next "what's next".

The principle is such a great reality that it's the driving force behind why Dave Ramsey's suggests in how financial plan to move from the smallest to largest balance when working on the elimination of debt. Knocking out the smallest balances gives you a relatively immediate sense of "win" and accomplishment, which motivates you to the next big thing. One after another, the momentum builds, until the great achievement is fulfilled.

How did you do that?

One day at a time. One focused attack. One payment at a time.

It's not that you aren't taking care of other things on your radar, but you are clearing the screen with what shows progress and working the process.

Pray this #effectiveSunday that God would help us tend to what needs to be done. May God grant strength and energy to remain focused, both on the larger picture and tasks but also determination to take care of the matters than can be the smallest and most dangerous hindrances if ignored. Pray for wisdom as we navigate the responsibilities God has entrusted to the body of Christ. May today be a day of great achievements because we have taken care of the small accomplishments while today is called today.

For yesterday is past
Tomorrow is yet not arrived.
Do today what is your hand and power to do
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I've been slowly reading my way through a book written from my favorite NBA player and I'd recommend getting a copy. The stories of what he's endured are pretty incredible.

The book is titled The Fundamentals and it's written by one of the great Bad Boys of the Detroit Pistons, Isaiah "Zeke" Thomas.

On a section headlined with the phrase "A life committed to success" he shares these words.

"Commitment powers dreams and goals into reality. It is the engine that powers the wheels. Without commitment, you go nowhere. People who never commit fully to their goals often feel lost or stuck. They are out of gas. They blame their "stuck" circumstance for their misery instead of taking responsibility for their own happiness and success. Their lack of commitment is a result of their lack of inner motivation."

Contrast that with the opening of next paragraph.

"With commitment, you can change not only your life, but the world around you. Those whom we honor and remember the most are generally those who have committed their lives to bettering the world and then lived that commitment."

Isaiah goes on to write, "You are fully committed to your goals when you decide that nothing will throw you off your course in pursuit of your dreams.... no one can stop you. No one can make you give up."

I know life is hard. Emotions and feelings and circumstance can really sway and pull on our hearts and minds to not do or desire to do or be the thing or place that we are. Even Christ understood and experienced this. Hence His cry on the cross, if possible take this cup from me. His life is replete with opportunities to step out and walk away and call for an entire different situation, outcome or result. And yet He remained committed. Even to death on the cross. Not an attractive end on a human level, but He allowed nothing and nobody to stop Him, nor make Him give up.

So that's my encouragement this morning. No matter what, stay committed. To the calling God has placed upon you, to the place God has positioned you; to the people He has surrounded you with; to the plan and purpose He has laid before you. Let nothing nor anyone discourage or distract you from pursuing and fulfilling what God has placed within you to accomplish for His kingdom and glory.

Pray this #effectiveSunday for God grace and strength to those feeling lost, stuck and demotivated. May they be encouraged, even this hour, to continue and stay the course.  Let not distractions and discourage detour and derail their lives and ministries. May they continue to progress forward under the power of God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pray today would be a day of results, as lives are transformed and eternity forever changed because of the commitments that are made, renewed and fulfilled.

Effective for the ministry.
Committed to the cause.
Unwavering despite our feelings
As we walk in His footsteps.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

"Exposition is only effective as the receiver" - Chuck Swindoll.

In part three of his series Discouraging Signs of a Dying Ministry, Pastor Swindoll shared how over his years of ministry and dealing with congregations, it was amazing that he could preach through every book of Scripture, every topic, chapter and verse, line by line and after everything he had done to deliver the Word, some people were just as carnal as when they first stepped into the church as they were after all his preaching.

It was after describing this phenomenon that he made the opening statement. And it couldn't be anymore true. In fact, it is the very parable of the soil that Jesus describes in His ministry. Furthermore, we see this all throughout today's culture, as many people are speaking the truth on any number of matters and circumstances that consume our days and yet, some remain unwilling to hear and act accordingly. So what happens if we do nothing with hearing the truth that is the Word of God?

The greatest preaching is nothing if there is not an active connection that responds appropriately.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that the words that are spoken would indeed fall on good soil. May hearts and minds be opened and prepared to hear from God the exposition of His Word that will be delivered from pulpits across the globe. Pray that would people would be changed to greater reflect the person and character of Christ as we are transformed by the power of God and the work of the Holy Spirit. Pray today would be a pivotal moment for many, for the kingdom of God and the plans and purposes He desires to accomplish in and through our lives.

That we stand this day
As those who are on the Lord's side.
Forever changed by the Word of God
And the exposition that is the preaching.
Foolishness to some, but the power of God
To draw us unto Himself.
For the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC