For the past few months, my mind has been wondering in a number of different directions. For those who know me well, that's nothing new. Except for certain things it hinders the process of life and progress. Over a prolonged period of time, is the essential equivalent of stalling out.

Even as I was getting ready for church this morning, I had a few ideas of what to write, but again, nothing really stood out as an obvious direction of what God wanted. This is where we stand in the way. Sometimes knowingly, others unknowingly; but we can miss what God has for us.

In ministry, in our living of daily life, in our faith, in our conversations and interactions; here's my question for the day (and perhaps it's more for me than for you)

What is God unable to accomplish because we are holding out and perhaps unwittingly holding up the process through our indecision?

It hardly makes for an effective and efficient approach to anything that we say or do.

And don't miss the point that I'm overlooking. Some decisions do take time and thought, much prayer and many conversations. But I speak from experience and my friends can attest... it can be over-done. And then some.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that God would help those facing similar circumstances. May God grant clarity to those having difficulty in the decisions and problems they face. Pray wisdom and discernment to fill their hearts and minds; not to be consumed with whether they see the end of the field, but to see their next steps down the field. Pray for the confidence and peace of the Holy Spirit as they walk in the calling and purpose God has called and ordained them to fulfill.

Without hestitation
Without reservation.
May we live and move
By the strength and power
Of the Sovereign Hand of God.
For His glory and honor.

- PNC

We read the notification yesterday, thanks to the power of social media, that the Pastor who married my wife and I went to the hospital, as we was experiencing incredible back pain. It's turns out there is a bone spur hitting the nerve. They finally came in this morning and said they are going to try a few other things first and that surgery is now a last resort.

However, as last night came to a close and this morning kicked off, I remained in the dark regarding this post. Then God dropped in heart, how many Pastors are getting ready to deliver the Word while in all kinds of pain. My heart goes out to our beloved Pastors, who story of life and ministry over their tenure would boggle most minds as to what they have endured and struggled; as many other Pastors have equally, unbelievable stories of tragedy, loss, pain, agony and frustration.

I don't know how much of what we encounter in life as a "Satan approaching God regarding Job" moment or it's the trial by fire hand of God, but whatever the cause and reasoning behind such matters, I know that it is all the under the watchful Sovereign eye of God.

I know Satan takes advantage of every opportunity to reach in to a place of struggle and frustration and extract from it whatever strength of faith and resolve may reside in the heart of the believer.

I'm just curious...

Does Satan stand in God's throne room asking permission to intervene in our lives more often than we stand in the throne room asking God to intervene on our behalf?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray today for Pastors and my friends, especially, who find themselves in places of pain and agony; whether physcially, emotionally or spiritually. May God gird them up and strengthen them anew and afresh by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray today that indeed, Jesus would make intercession for us, to the Father. Pray for a quickening and fortification of the resolve of faith within the lives of the believers; that we stand strong against the attacks of the enemy, whatever their source of origin. May the efforts and works of ministry that take place today accomplish much for the kingdom of God; not because of a man on the pulpit or the worship on stage or anyone helping in a classroom; but because God inhabits the praises of His people and is found in the midst of where two or three gather in His name.

For there is a higher place to go
Where God beckons us
That we may know Him more.
And He who has begun this work,
Won't let us go.
For once we were weak
But now we are strong.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but I am believing today is going to be a great day!

I'm smiling, because I'm thinking of the parallel's that exist, regarding a new church in my area whose grand opening service is today.

This young family comes to the area after serving in a church that started one year before the church my family attends, started.

They are starting out in the middle school building where my church held services before our moving to our own, current campus.

And aside from one letter of the alphabet, 2 of their 3 children have identical names as my pastors's two kids, which I find uncanny.

That said, as mom & I were talking yesterday, it's a pretty exciting moment to watch. And an in area such as ours already having a quite a number of churches, and some of them bringing together significant numbers of people, it just goes to show that their will always be a need to reach those who aren't being reached.

Undoubtedly, many will attend out of curiosity and maybe because things are happening within their own church that has them considering other places of worship. But I am believing that they will experience an incredible move of God in reaching those who somehow have yet engaged in being an active part of the church as of yet.

This simultaneously brings me the realization that on this #effectiveSunday, the existing churches in the area still have much to do in their communities. The work is never done; particularly when fresh faces see tremendous opportunity to step out in faith and undertake a new venture such as a church plant. But people connect and relate in all different manners and styles; thus, at the end of the day, may we all come together in worship of the King of Kings and grow in the knowledge and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that it would indeed be a great day for the kingdom of God. May many have a genuine and powerful encounter with the Creator of the Universe, who we call Abba Father. Pray the healing power of the Cross move upon people's lives, that the Holy Spirit would strength, renew and transform hearts and minds. Pray for this new church and their mission; may they have a great day in the Lord and their impact. May God honor their step of faith and move mightily in their midst and they dedicate their lives and efforts anew and afresh for the work of the Lord.

For the work of the Gospel is never complete
And our faith never fulfilled.
As we continually renewed in the Spirit.
By the Word of God
And the word of our testimony.
That all may know He alone is God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Judging from the pics that were posted to social media regarding the outreach event we discussed yesterday, it appears that the effects on the community were incredibly positive. I'm believing as I'm sure all who helped in the process are, that many great impacts were made, not only for eternity, but also for this life on Earth, which has greeted these people with many struggles and overwhelming frustrations.

One of the event coordinators stated that one of the goals was to hopefully help those who attended, to get assimilated into the local churches of that community. In essence... get plugged in.

This is result of the great commission... to compel people to come in. Not into a building. Not under the pulpit of a great preacher. Not into the efforts of a powerful ministry. But into a right relationship with God through Jesus Christ. That single event doesn't have to happen in a church. But the relationship and lifestyle that results is built and developed through engagement and fellowship with other believers in the body of Christ that is the local church.

How can a church be effective in its' ministry within the four walls of the church if the body of Christ is not effective in compelling the community to come in?

Thanks again for joining with us. On this #effectiveSunday, pray that today would be a great day for the kingdom of God. Pray for the outreach that took place in the past 24-48 hours, specifically, as this church and many more, I'm certain, has actively engaged the community to reach them with the love and compassion of Jesus Christ. Even in the early hours of this day, may people be moved to step into a community of believers who will extend their lives to reach those who need to know, hear and understand the reach that God has extended to them. Pray for a move of God towards humanity, and more importantly, a move on humanity's part towards the presence and person of God.

God help us to reach others,
As you have reached out to us.
Those who love you,
Because you loved us first.
For the cause of Jesus Christ
And the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC

Today marks a day of occasion. For many of course, it will be a day they would rather forget, as they await the fast approaching weather in Florida. And of course there are many other disasters and tragedies transpiring elsewhere as well.

But for our church and community, it's the celebration of 25 years of continued service for our Senior Pastor. The church went through a couple of pastors, who tried to revive it a number of times; and it was like it never quite took off the ground. Yet God has accomplished the miraculous, as He established a community that is highly regarded and respected throughout the area, not because of a man, but because of the goodness and faithfulness of God... as a church has worked hard to be wise and good stewards of the resources and people that has been entrusted to us to manage and to lead in the faith and through life.

Countless impacts have been made and lives forever changed; not only those recipients who we may not meet this side of eternity, but of those who have gone on to accomplish great things for the kingdom of God, stepping into various ministry efforts around the globe as a result of their interaction here.

Of course we know this kind of tenure and longevity in ministry is becoming a more rare occurrence every day. And while we've prayed many times of effectiveness, perseverance and stability in the ministry, I'd like to simply pray that God to help those who daily don't feel like continuing. Certainly even our pastor has had those days; for none of us are immune to attacks of defeat.

But we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony.

God is good and faithful.
He has a plan and purpose for us; to use all that we endure for His glory.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, for those who are struggling to see the long-term vision; for those already exhausted and desirous to call it quits. May God strengthen them, even this hour. Pray that many would surround and encourage them; to show love and appreciation as we will do today. May the attacks of defeat and discouragement be met with a resiliency and tenacity to fulfill God's calling regardless of the cost. Pray God's blessing and favor, as He continues to raise and build up people who will impact their communities with the love of Christ and the Gospel of God.

A commitment to fulfill His calling.
Persevering by His strength
Faithful in our service.
Overcoming the struggle and discouragement
That God may be glorified.
For many, many years to come should He tarry.

-PNC

It occurred to me last night as I wondered what my God might have in store for today, that I was once again getting frustrated with my phone. It replaced a previous model that had more space for apps, pics... everything. This one is about full. Thus, programs are running slow, sometimes having problems opening at all or staying functional.

How often does the same happen at church? Too much going on to run efficiently. Resources spread too thin to start anything new. It's more aggravating that what I'm experiencing with a silly phone. And yet, it's way more frequent. Plus there's the whole aspect of it affects the kingdom of God and all eternity, rather than my momentary angst.

So a very short post, but I think an appropriate one, that we should agree for those where space and resources are thin.

Let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that God would help them accomplish the miraculous with the team and resources that they have. May God give them creativity, to steward well what they have and to make the best of the situation as they submit their plans to Him. May God expand their tent stakes and give them increase as they faithfully fulfill the calling and purpose He had for them, in the communities they serve.

Effective and efficient for the glory of God
Using well the talents He has blessed us with.
For the advancement of the kingdom of God.

-PNC

As I'm about to get ready for church it occurs me, this day is needed all the more.

On this #effectiveSunday, this is the day that we need to lay down the disputes, arguments and the "clicks" among us and come together as the body of Christ. This is the day to welcome and love those around us; that they would not feel as an outsider, frustrated and bothered by others.

If a family can display publicly what is  a reflection of what transpires at home, how much more, does the church display to the world that happenings of the body of Christ when we come together to worship God and hear the teaching of the Word of God.

This is not who we are.
This is not how we want to be known.
This is not what God called us to be.
This is not the witness that we want to display.
We need a drastic move of God and quickly.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would indeed see the hand of God move in our midst. May our churches be an example of the love of Christ and the love of our neighbor as we come together as imperfect people to lift up the name of a perfect God and Father. Pray for the miraculous in our communities; that the church would be a place of resource and restoration whereby many would to come to the saving and transforming power of Christ and the blood that was shed on the Cross for the sins of us all.

God, we need your help.
For this life is not our own,
Nor can we live it on our own.
Only through your grace and power.
And for your Glory.

- PNC

The parent in me started thinking about effectiveness last night. And it didn't dawn on me until much later in the evening that I started thinking about this in regards to the tragedy in Charlottesville.

Feelings are feelings, right or wrong they are what they are. However, they are capable of lying to us and twisting our perspective to things and thinking that is neither accurate nor true. We make all kind of parameters and measurements to keep track of our progress, but the reality is that there are other factors at work that aren't often in our framework of understanding or immediately recognizable as being an obstacle to the progress that we hope to achieve.

Thus we find ourselves asking the kinds of questions that are flooding social media this morning. And they are on par with the questions asked by every parent at some point in time in their child's life.

It's 2017. How are we still having this battle? You are how old? How is this still a problem?

In the spiritual realm, it's not any different.
In church and the Christian circle, the question is the same.
And the reality is, change takes time. And it's never on the preferred timeline of somebody somewhere.

None of us are the saints we hope and claim to be.
We are all more sinful than we desire to acknowledge.

So whenever there is a problem, we find something else to blame, that may or may not be true, but isn't certainly not deep enough to grab at the root and remove from our lives and society.

Thus, the parent stands and looks in frustration at what is going in their home and asks why.
The church stands and looks in frustration at what is going in their community and asks why.
Society stands and looks in frustration at what is going in their world and asks why.

And we all say the same thing. Lord, change the heart of the person standing next to me.
Because effectiveness always begins with someone else doing something different.

Yet that's not what Jesus said.
{You] go and sin no more.

In 6000 years, nothing has changed.

Adam answered God, with it, "this woman you gave me."
Eve answered with essentially, the serpant took your words of context and I believed his word over Yours.
And today, we all take the words of someone out of context and act accordingly rather than God's Word.

So, on this #effectiveSunday I write with the understanding that we all can do better. And effectiveness starts with me, dealing in the realities of spiritual truth. I am a sinner in need of God. And upon repentance, I need to live in a way that reflects Him. And so are you. And so do you.

Let's pray that God would do the miraculous in our own hearts and lives before we pray for the one standing next to us. And indeed, let us pray for the one next to us, that God would soften their hearts and minds to receive the truth of God rather than being offended by it. For indeed God will bring about change, and though it isn't easy, it is necessary for a true relationship with a Holy God. May the church stay the course, in speaking the truth in love and helping communities deal with the struggles of society by dealing with the evil that exists at the very heart of humanity.

May we love God
May we love our neighbor.
Not as we think of love
But as Christ loves.
With truth
By the power of the Holy Spirit.
For the only cause that matters... Jesus Christ.

- PNC

A simply concept and perhaps, reminder, on this #effectiveSunday. A powerful statement of conviction, in actuality. Of course, for the life of me, I can't properly remember who I heard it from this past week. But here it is...

We can't do collectively, what we aren't willing to do individually.

As stated by my pastor on so many occasions in any given service, "I'm not asking you do anything that we aren't doing."

I'm reminded, daily, even in asking you to pray for pastors. I need to continually be taking time to lift pastors up in prayer as well. Even when the days are filled with difficulty and stress and the task at hand preoccupies our minds and the thought of prayer gets pushed to the back instead of being brought to the forefront.

Yet the power and effectiveness of the church lies in the willingness and abilities of those who come together to create the body of Christ.

If individuals don't do and come together, then what form of togetherness will exist to move in a particular direction as a team and a force with which one must reckon?

The power of the body of Christ is in the makeup of the the members. For one can not say to the other, "I have no need of you."

We need everyone, as in the days of the early church. Together, in unity.

So pray, this #effectiveSunday, that the church would be strengthened in their efforts. May each of us be challenged to draw closer to God, to greater reflect His love and character and display as such daily to the world around us. Pray that we would desire to do what God would have us to do and move and minister in the ways and means that He would direct. May we continue to speak the truth in love to world living in the lies of hate.

That we would know what we can accomplish together
Because we have stepped out in what God would have us accomplish on our own.
For a strong body is made up of strong elements.
To be used by the power of God
And bring those around us to His saving love and grace.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Much like finances, the sooner you know and understand what is going, the sooner you can begin working on solutions, goals and investments.

I know this seems like quite the revelation, but while getting ready for church this morning, my favorite classic Christian rock internet station was playing the song Shadows, by Resurrection Band, dealing with the subject of suicide. Then it was followed up two years later, when DeGarmo & Key recorded Teenage Suicide.

How many issues of our day is the church at the forefront of dealing with?

In 1979, Resurrection Band released their album, Rainbow's End which included the track, Afrikaans; which was the first anti-apartheid song to be released by an American rock band. For reference, secular artist Peter Gabriel released "Biko" a year later.

Thus many people and organizations are effective and efficient in their efforts to impact the world at large as well as their local community, but those at the forefront of solving or working towards solutions are to be commended. Whether working to fix problems such as over-crowded foster care system or combating human trafficking, the church should not take second place in dealing with societies ills. Especially since they all stem from the evil within the heart of man.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that churches would indeed be on the cutting edge of impacting society in positive ways making real differences with kingdom goals. May we not shy away from the troubles and challenges we face, but work to engage others in changing hearts and minds. Pray that the church would have favor as they move in these areas; that obstacles would be few and overcome well when they arise. Pray that we would do life together and that our reputation of love would go before us... not in allowing anything and everything to occur, but revealing and reflecting the truth of God and the character of Christ.

To be His hands and feet
To the desperate among us.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

For all my life, I've been partial to the number 7. As I've grown though, it's held more and more significance and meaning, especially when seen in duplicate. There is a group on social media that people are always posting to with sightings of 77 or 777, as an honor to the Christian Rock band, the 77's. (last minute edit after it's all been written; "oh the irony of finding 777 on a license plate!")

As we communicated a few days ago about a perspective that sees far ahead, I too, back in May of 2015 didn't think much about what kind of milestones I would mark as I carried out this commitment to write daily thoughts regarding the need to #pray4pastors. Yet the date calculation website tells me that starting from 6/1/2015 thru to and including today's post, that there are now 777 consecutive posts.

So, I'm smiling as I write this... boasting in the Lord for His helping me as I told Him I knew I would need it. Meanwhile, I can't help but consider... how many other things would be vastly improved in my life had I spend the last 777 days doing them. Health and fitness, finances, generosity, in my relationships, in my home and so much more.

So, needless to say, I found it more than a little profound as my wife and I sat last night watching The Christmas Cure,  a movie that is part of the Hallmark channel's Christmas in July programming. A young doctor returns home, as her father is retiring from his small-town clinic and she is confronted with accepting a big promotion at the hospital she works at on the other side of the country versus staying home and continuing the work of her dad's clinic. At one point, in talking with her mom, the following concept is presented (and forgive me, now I can't remember exactly how the mom stated it)

It's possible that we can spend all our time doing what we are supposed to be doing and yet miss the "thing" that we were meant to do.

Like this series of hours wasn't already reflective for me when I discovered yesterday morning that today was going to be 777 day and now hearing the profoundness of how we can live and do well and yet not be doing well at the same time. The meaning. The purpose. The calling. The anointing. The blessing. It can really throw off one's ability to be effective and efficient. It's not that those elements aren't present, for indeed they are. But they operate at a different level between doing what you are supposed to do and what you are meant to do.

The clarity that comes with knowing and understanding the meaning and purpose behind what you do is what makes the difference.

So, let's pray as ministry goes forth on this #effectiveSunday. May the things that are supposed to get done  be done well, but more importantly, pray for a clarity and purpose for the ministry that is accomplished today. Pray for the conversations that people will engage in as they communicate and share life. Pray over the worship sessions; that the presence of God will move afresh in the hearts and lives of those present. May the word of God as His Word is presented, bring about revelation to people's hearts and minds. Pray for clarity where is fog; confidence where  there is doubt, peace where there is chaos and hope where there is despair. May an opportunity not be missed to share and communicate the love of God with every person of all ages as they enter the house of God this day.

Effective for the kingdom of God
As we live as we were meant to live.
For His plans and purposes.
May He be glorified in all we say and do.
And grace for when we miss the mark.
All for the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

A quick, short and sweet #effectiveSunday post before we all step into service shortly, right?

Sure.

Well, I posted on my personal social media page last night that I needed a distraction and so, as Job experienced break-through in his life when he prayed for his friends, I too, asked my friends how I could pray for them.

Of course, as soon as a new comment was posted, I immediately took a few moments or minutes to lift them up in a prayer, especially as there were a couple that were incredible experiences and difficulties that people were facing.

Then, this morning, a friend posed the question... when we say we are going to pray for someone, do we actually do it, or do we put it and off and perhaps, end up forgetting about it?

Well, isn't that interestingly timed? I'm not sure if the two postings are related, but it got me thinking this morning...

How can one be effective, let alone efficient, if we don't at least do what we say we will do? In matters of faith or life or otherwise?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that the church and the people of God would indeed be people who would follow through on our words and actions. May we be people who would, both literally and figuratively, engaged in the world offering the cup of cold water that people so desperately need. Pray that we would be effective in reaching out and reaching across; that the truth of the love of God would be made real and transparent to those around us outside the church and to everyone who steps through the doors.

That we would be doers of the Word of God,
Absolutely.
That we would be doers of our word, naturally.
Pointing others to Christ
By living in ways that honor Him
For the glory of God.

- PNC

 A friend from college posted a meme on social media yesterday morning that I had to laugh it. It expressed how so many of us, make plans. It's the weekend, and there's so much stuff to get done. Look out to-do list... I'm coming for you; you're going down. Then when it comes to actually doing it... no, not so much.

Dad can we watch (whatever)? No, why don't you pick out a movie. Dad has stuff to do, but pick something out that I'll want to watch with you if I decide to take a break or something. Yeah... it was a break alright. Or something.

I can't imagine, ministry not having similar moments. Perhaps items that aren't necessarily deadline-oriented, but just need to be tended to and taken care of, and yet other stuff, tasks or pleasures end up pushing it aside one more time. Next thing you know, another day passes of, "I didn't get nearly as much done as I was hoping to accomplish". Such days exist for all of us. The problem lies when such days become habitual, rather than occasional. It is certainly a balancing act, though... for usually, the busier the Monday-Friday, the more likely the weekend will be lazy one.

But there is still much to be done. Breaks are good, but eventually we must return to the work.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that pastors and those in ministry would be renewed and refreshed. May they not put off the things that need to be done. Pray things would not fall off or behind; but that they would stay the course. May God strengthen them and may they be surrounded by those that would come along side to aid and assist in the workload; that they would not burn out from working alone. Pray a great return in the harvest of the kingdom of God for the work of the ministry that has been completed, with faithfulness and love for the things of God.

That our will would align with God
And that we would act accordingly.
Getting done what we have been called to do;
What we know needs to be done.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

We discussed a number of times, particularly on #effectiveSunday on the costs of ministry. And while we know and understand it and don't always like to so much to participate in it, as summer arrives and we have plans, everyone reconsiders where they might be willing to make sacrifices.

Ministry takes money.

It's not that God needs it. It's that He needs us... to step in and engage in His plan. And the reality is that economics apply, even for organizations that aren't in "it" for the profitability of a proposal.

At a time when ministries cost increase with all the summer activities and of course, everyone is on their way out for the own summer fun, this can be a real and true struggle for churches. When resources are tight and help is low, the prospect of being both effective and efficient can feel severely hampered, whether actual or perceived.

Yet, as I've recently learned, sometimes you can't always look at just the money issue and make a decision based off that factor alone; no matter how important or sizable the amount may be. The investment in people, in relationships, in community and family far-outweighs whatever "hurt" is felt by the missing green-backs.

Effectiveness is the result of investment, financial, relational and more.

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that church would not lose hope. May the be revitalized and renewed, in their efforts to continue to make the investment in community and family, even if the prospect of finances and resources are low. Pray God miraculously move on their behalf and sovereignly provide for all that they have need. Pray for strength and wisdom, as they navigate decisions and make plans. May they not based them in fear, but trust that God will will accomplish His plans and purposes as people are faithful to the work of the Lord and the ministry of the church.

Effective through investment
For the treasures of Earth are temporal
But the treasures of Heaven are eternal.
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

First and foremost, Happy Father's Day to all Dad's. To the great ones. To the ones who know and understand their is still time to become great. You are needed. You are necessary. You are valued. You are loved.

And if no one is telling you that or sharing such a sentiment, know that your Heavenly Father loves you, values you and cares for you... such that He sacrificed His Son to take your place for consequence of sin. Talk about what doing what is necessary even at an uncomfortable cost.

While hardly a comparison, an unexpected car repair is never fun.Wednesday night, as my daughter's and I pulled into church, I left the wheels cranked. Upon leaving service, I noticed... yep, don't think we can put getting tires of any longer kiddos. So, yesterday morning... new treads! And thank God for the blessing. They didn't cost nearly what the should have; God hooked a brother up!

What a difference! What was I thinking putting that off for so long? Well, besides not wanting to ruin the budget?

Actor Ron Silverman, played political consultant Bruno Gionelli, on The West Wing. After helping the administration win re-election, senior staff offers their thanks. At one point, he simply replies, "It helps when you cook with the right food."

On this #effectiveSunday, how important is it that we cook with the right food? So pray this Father's Day, that we do well to work with the right tools, resources and people. May we effectively communicate the truth to those around us and care for those in need and in difficult places. Pray for breakthrough, in families and homes that need to know the power of the Holy Spirit and the love of God at work in their lives. May we be ever aware, of the changes that need to be made and how and where to go about making them; that God would guide or steps and direct us in the way we should go.

As we lead our churches.
As we lead our homes.
As we impact our children
As we change our communities.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I had a friend speak into my life yesterday regarding a matter that our family has been dealing with and quite frankly, I didn't see it coming. The conversation was not lengthy nor eloquent. It wasn't filled with lofty solutions or complex strategies.

It was however, a handful of things.

It was timely.
It was true
It was stated in love.
Ir was real.
It was covered in prayer.

It was, effective and efficient.

As I've learned even in the past 8 hours this morning, God knows what's going on in our lives when we don't. He is with us in our pain and suffering. He is with us in the confusion. And as I laid in bed, trying to figure out what physically had risen up within body and woken me up at 5am, at one point my youngest daughter kept coming in to check on me... with hugs and kisses and I love you, Daddy. At one point, I asked if she would pray for me.

"God, help Daddy feel better." 

Moments ago, she came up behind me and hugged my neck.

"Thanks for praying for me, kiddo. God answered your prayer."

We don't know always know what we are facing, but it's amazing how much more effective and efficient the solutions are when we know what to take hold of and surrender at the Cross of Christ. It too, is a great reminder that when we don't know what we are up against, God knows what is needed and is ready, willing and able to hear and answer prayer. Even those of a little child.

So... my sincerest apologies  that this is getting posted after many of today's morning services, but will you join me once again?  For your churches and families alike; may God grant them wisdom and revelation in the situations and circumstance that have them confused, frustrated and bothersome. Whatever the solutions, pray God would grant grace as they move forward. May the sovereign plan of God be fulfilled as we walk in the paths He has prepared for us and in the truth that He has made apparent in our lives. Pray we would be reminded to approach the throne of grace with humilty; acknowledging that all things come from the hand of God, or at least pass through the hand of God. There is nothing He is not aware of, nor able to meet in the lives of those who call on Him and seek His face.

Whether the problem be crystal clear
Or cloudy as mud...
It is all for the glory of God.
For even the mud was a tool
To restore one's sight.
Effective and efficient,
Despite our lack of understanding.
For the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

A quick and interesting perspective on effectiveness.

In writing these daily prayers, of which I haven't calculated of late, but we're at 740+ consecutive days, some days the ideas take a little longer to develop and process mentally before writing. Other days, I may still have not have much to go, but something super-natural seems to happen, beyond my abilities and the words simply take off as I start typing.

So yesterday morning, while processing mentally, I saw an unrelated idea on the social media fan page of my favorite show. I posted, hey here's an idea and the notifications started going off with everyone commenting on the idea with more suggestions. Pretty soon, I was watching and reading the comments more than developing the post!  Hence, yesterday's post was a little late.

This morning... 585 suggestions in a short 23 hours!!

And while I'd love to figure out how to make that happen here in terms of effectiveness for Bring Me 70, it was also an effective lesson in how quickly we can get distracted on the less important thing being more effective than where our priority should be; let alone the importance of the eternal thing.

Yesterday was fun and the conversation interesting and the engagement of others was awesome to watch. And it wasn't ineffective, as in the midst of all the posts, I commented about being late on this blog and someone asked about Bring Me 70... so who knows how many are reading this now, thanks to the distraction of social media.

Thus, on this #effectiveSunday, will you join me once again? Pray today would be an effective day for the kingdom o fGod. May we be careful in what we allow to distract us and detour us from the efforts and work of ministry; knowing that we may never know, as Scripture describes, what will bring forth fruit and what will fail. Pray for discernment and direction as we move forward in life and faith, one day and one conversation at a time... whether with 1 life, 5 or 585.

Won by One.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yesterday afternoon turned out to be a nice time to go for a drive. We spent a couple of hours hanging out with another couple and as we were texting afterwards, I got the following message:

"It amazes me that people are trying to sell something that they don't care enough to weed or clear out the trash."

Which got me thinking, just how much the more the odds of effectiveness increase when the minutia and minor things have been given the time necessary to clear them out of the way and off "the list".

I know, I'm one to talk. As sit here waiting for everyone to finish getting ready for church, I'm noticing a few minor things around me that shouldn't still be staring me down.

Whether external or internal, visible or behind the scenes, I can't help but wonder the rate of effectiveness within the church, or lack thereof , because we aren't properly taking care of minor points of ministry.

We've witnessed in our church alone, the difference in Sunday morning service, since we started a few months ago making it a point of emphasis during Wednesday night's prayer meeting to pray that Sunday would be an effective day of ministry. Much like I've been asking you do with me every Sunday morning for what I just realized, has been for 2 years now.

Thus, will you join me again?

On this last #effectiveSunday of May, pray that today would indeed be a day of effective ministry for the kingdom of God. Pray that lives would be impacted for all of eternity. May hearts be healed and minds open by the power and revelation of the Word of God. Pray that today would be a day that people don't have a church experience, but rather a God encounter. Through the conversations that precede and follow service, may friendships and relationship begin anew and existing ones be strengthened, as we encourage and build each other up in the faith.

That the church would be built up in the most Holy Faith
Through foolishness that is the preaching of the Gospel of Christ.
May it be made alive, as it is applied to our lives.
That we would leave changed,
Having been in the presence of the Lord.

- PNC

A summer quickly approaches, so does, among others things, the popular time for weddings. Last night we attended the wedding of my wife's cousin. Upon getting back to the residence, we scrolled through social media for a few, to discover the daughter of friends from our former church had gotten engaged. Such a fun time.

After so many years of marriage (insert your anniversary counter), it's exciting to see the smiles and laughter and enjoyment of "young love". Perhaps life has taken it's a toll and you forget what it was like in your own relationship, or you do remember and it just feels so far removed.

Either way, I got to thinking as we were about to leave last night about the vows. We often have grand ideas about wedded life and how things will go and work out and more. And life does hit. And it its hard.

We all hope to be effective and achieve long-lasting marriages with happiness along the way, despite the inevitable trials and struggles that simply can't be denied nor averted. While we plan and strategize, hope and pray, we simply don't know. Which is why there is power in the vow.

For better or worse.
For richer or poorer.
In sickness and in health.
Til death.

The process of effectiveness begins with commitment... no matter what it ends up looking like, we will work together to accomplish the dreams we hold and the purpose for which we have been created.

So, while I ask that you join me in prayer this #effectiveSunday, that all churches will experience a powerful day of coming together in the presence of God, I feel a specific sense for new church plants. Pray for the special challenges and needs they face as they work to become known and established in their neighborhoods and communities. May their efforts result in increased numbers and support. May more established churches come alongside to encourage and invest in these teams and pastors. Pray for creativity as they spread the word on the streets; that God would lead and guide their steps and conversations. Pray God would provide resources and people to help carry the burden and pressures of ministry start-ups. May they witness results for the kingdom of God; that any attempts of the enemy to thwart or hinder would be defeated and that they would not be detoured, distracted or derailed. Pray the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit to go before them and prepare the way as well as the hearts and minds of many; that God would accomplish the miraculous as people are committed to the process with only a hope of what level of effectiveness they may achieve.

Living life one step at a time
Advancing the kingdom of God one heart at a time.
May God continue to illuminate our steps and our path
For His glory and the salvation of many souls.
Impacting our cities for the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Life really does get boring at times.

The rote and routine of daily life takes it's toll. Tasks get old and anything that interrupts and adds to the load, the time or the stress can really throw us off our game... especially if we aren't paying attention.

We get things done effectively through systems and efficiency because of the longevity of which we've been doing them. Yet, even I notice, the rates for those two factors decrease based on my energy and enthusiasm to get something accomplished.

When it's half-hearted, whenever it gets done today is the mindset I find myself distracted. What's the latest update from friends on Facebook; who has cool ride is for sale on Craigslist; is  there anything good on television or maybe something great on YouTube... the possibilities are endless thanks to technology in our hand.

This, by the way, is why we applaud Mother's. Parenting is a full-time job in itself, it's matters not who is working outside the home... family is work. Hard work.

Yet even taking care of things around the house and kids can be as mundane and taxing as any other responsibility one may have in the workplace or the church-place.

But with a spirit of love and diligence, faithfulness and fulfillment... whatever you do, do as unto the Lord; and the effectiveness and efficiency of the task or project at hand changes course for the better.

As we celebrate Mothers on this #effectiveSunday, would you join me in praying that God would strengthen them (and the rest of us, really) for the days when our hearts and minds are not fully devoted to what is in front of us to accomplish. May there be a spirit of renewal and rejuvenation over such times and stress. Pray for stress levels and tensions be diminished, as even the routine and normal things of life mount to problematic conversations and moments of challenge.

God we look to you...
On the special days of celebration
On the regular days of life.
For your glory.

- PNC