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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, will you join me this morning?

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

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

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

HE. IS. RISEN!

What a great day, another year of remembrance of what Christ did 2000 years ago. It still boggles the mind; sovereignty of God who knew it advance that by giving man free will, He was giving opportunity to His own rejection. Yet, God understood then, what man understands through maturity. Relationships are a choice.

Thus, in understanding the evil that exists in the world and in the hearts of man, how can one acknowledge our broken condition yet deny that we need a Savior?

For as the lyrics go...

"If it's up to anyone of us, we'll never get out of here."

We like to think it depends on us.
We like to believe we can do it on our own.
Weakness is for other people.
Yet our own strength will fail us.

The only way for renew is, in fact, to call upon the name of the Lord.

For even though soldier standing at the foot of the cross acknowledged the truth... a nearly instant revelation immediately following the last breath of Christ.

Indeed, this was the Son of God.

In that moment, he knew his sin.
He knew he needed a Messiah.

And yet, Peter had not preached the solution. Repentance.

For there is One Savior. One Truth. One Way. One confession.

On this Easter 2017, aka #effectiveSunday, may many more experience the revelation of the Roman soldier. Pray today would be a revelation day for the saving of many souls; for indeed we do need a Messiah. May today be a celebration in Heaven and Earth, of our Risen Lord and what He accomplished for all humanity through His death and Resurrection. May we made anew and alive in Him, as we confess with your mouths and believe in our hearts, that Jesus Christ is Lord. Pray today would be a declaration heard around the world; that this season would not be another holiday turned for the commercial benefit of economy but the confessional transformation for eternity.

We need a Messiah.
And one was given to us.
Through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Who takes away the sins of the World.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Late yesterday afternoon, as we were returning home from the birthday party for the 2-yr old daughter of our friends', we were jamming to the White Heart mix tape that was stashed in my car's center console.

People talk about reliving the good 'ol days... that's half the fun of driving old vehicles, that still have cassette decks! (Don't worry, it's not that old... I have an in-dash CD changer too)

One of the albums, is Emergency Broadcast, an incredibly powerful album. And the words to the song, Fashion Fades, got me thinking about this #effectiveSunday post.

Fashion fades // Things will change.
But something stronger // will remain.

The love of Jesus // stays the same
So where will you be // when the fashion fades

Jesus ministry, this Palm Sunday, was revolutionary. Not in a typical uproar and revolt kind of way, but that it messed up everybody's status quo. It was life-changing. Life-transforming. The effectiveness of His message for those who received and continue to receive it can't be denied.

Granted, that doesn't stop people from attempting to dismiss, discount and straight-up write it off, but when confronted with the truth, there truly are two responses.

* Accept.
* Deny.

Just as much as Jesus' ministry impacted the community and many didn't understand, couldn't comprehend and struggle with the events and decisions that transpired, so to, do we live in a day when community find itself in a similar dilemma... both inside and outside the four walls of the church.

Thankfully, Jesus promised that no matter the changes that occur in our lives; that the Spirit of God works and directs in our lives, that He would never leave us, nor forsake us. We are reminded that no matter what trials and difficulties we endure, He sticks closer to us than a brother (which if you have a cool brother like I do, is pretty darn close).

Thanks for joining me in prayer, this #effectiveSunday. Though life doesn't go as we hope and doesn't look like we want; may we rely on Christ as we walk this life. Though the process and methods of how life transpires and how work is done, may the message of Jesus Christ continue to transform lives and impact communities for eternity. May we ever be reminded, daily, that no matter how hard the difficulties and challenges we face, that Christ remains closer than a brother, with the comfort of the Holy Spirit.

Effective for the work of the ministry
Because of the truth that is the life of Christ.
Though life is full of changes
We stand in constant that is Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So we had a great family day yesterday... right up until the very late end. Having to step away from the chaos, I sat on the "colder-than-what-I-thought-it-was-outside" patio surfing the 'net and Craigslist. Meanwhile, I turned on the The Healing Rock radio station, where they were playing their Saturday night show, Vector.

I missed the first portion of the show, maybe the first half, I don't know... but the founder of the station network was interviewing a couple of people and they were discussing their difficulties with the church. Specifically, how it's hard sometimes to be genuine.

We all step in happy and ready to go to church, excited to worship. People ask how we are doing and have to respond with positive thoughts rather than the negative reality.

When truth be told... we'd rather not tell it. For who wants to hear the struggles and frustrations of life on the day we come together to celebrate Christ?

"No, I'm not having a great morning... my kids fought us on getting ready for church!"
"My blood pressure is up just thinking about whether we'll have an argument on the way!"

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy jokes, about how by the time he gets to church, he NEEDS church, cause he's done yelled at everybody on the way there!

(I shouldn't insert my own reality of what just happened 10 seconds ago.... but that was funny. Even if I'm the only one laughing. Only the sovereign timing of God could make the smile on my face exist right now.... as I just realized that same radio station is currently playing Perfect Timing by Sweet Comfort Band)

But seriously... it's just as hard not to be dismissive in our short, passing responses to people as much as their honest brevity in passing, "no, I'm not really doing that great this morning".

We don't want to feel as though we have to put up a front, but church morning's are busy and there's a schedule and a format. Who has time to take out 5 or 10 minutes to sit in the lobby or the cafe and say, this circumstance and frustration is immediate and raw and I need help in dealing with it?

Yes, I'll give it to God and respond to the altar and go up for prayer... or maybe I won't, even though I need to; but man... if someone could help talk me through this, wow.

Efficiency is often equated with speed and quickness, but we often forget that getting something done in 30 minutes that normally takes an hour is also efficient. And while effectiveness can occur in a short matter of seconds, more often than not, effectiveness comes from a habit of pattern and an investment of time.

Caring takes time. Effective care takes discernment to know when the time should be short and when it's appropriate for a longer investment.

We all have battles and struggles. Whether it's because we don't speak for we know other people have bigger and more challenging lives, thus we pale in comparison or we think others are too busy, that they'd rather not be bothered by our interruption... both are wrong. Life is not a competition of who's life is harder or worse off; nor should we not converse because someone seemingly has it altogether and so we recluse.

We are all in God's garage. We are all being restored. If any comparison is made, it's that those further along in the restoration process are able to testify; if God brought me this far from when I came in, how amazing is what awaits on the other side of the process for your life.

*longer blog = shorter prayer?

Can we pray this #effectiveSunday, for the body of Christ to be real people. Real struggles. Real faith. Real friends. Coming together to a Real God. May we take the time to express genuine care and concern. Pray we would be the hands and feet of Christ to those around us; helping people through the process and journey God is taking them. May we testify to those who come behind us to the goodness and greatness of God. For even when the road is hard, God is with us. May the church exist to be an ever-present reminder of the truth... God will never leave us, nor forsake us.

Effective for the kingdom of God.
Because we make the investment of time.
Speaking life to dead and dying places.
That Christ may bring healing and restoration
To our broken condition.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

The History Channel has been running quite a few re-runs of the incredibly popular show, American Pickers. I absolutely love this show. Mike and Frank, the proprietors of Antique Archaeology are priceless. The show is quite entertaining and incredibly informative.

As I considered this post, it dawned on me what makes their business work. A number of factors are obviously involved, but from a perspective of effective and efficient, knowledge is key.

They've been at this game a long time, so their expertise quite extensive. The wealth of knowledge they possess, is not only mind-boggling, but they use ever bit of it to do their job well... in terms of both effectiveness and efficiency.

Granted, they have items here and there where the lose a few bucks, but the remain overwhelmingly consistent in the ability to turn a profit as they dig for rusty treasures buried in people's garages and barns.

For the times and things they don't know what they are looking at, they know who to call or who they need to find to be able to employ help... which gives them even more information, to use on the next pick. It truly is an art and an amazing process to watch. Of course, their friendship is hilarious as well.

All of this got me thinking about matters of faith. How much more effective and efficient could the church and Christians be if we were more informed and knowledgeable about our faith, about Scripture, about other religions in order to be well-versed in arguments against Christianity... the list goes on.

Furthermore, even in my own life; what are the things I know more and spend more time on that is causing me to "be behind" in faith matters and my relationship with God? Well, the list exists and we'll leave it at that. Perhaps there's a list for you? I'm sure we will sit by someone shortly in service, that if they were honest with themselves, they have such a list.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would present our lists before the throne of grace. May God help us to grow in our faith, in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. Pray that we would not be hindered nor set-back, by other matters, topics and interests that have taken priority over our faith and the things of God. May we be challenged to be more effective and efficient in our Christianity. May the strength of God quicken us as the Holy Spirit works in our lives anew and afresh; as we are transformed and renewed to reflect the person of Jesus Christ to a greater degree.

For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
As we seek Him first
And His kindgom.

- PNC

Familiarity and experience is good to have and plenty valuable. But nothing was ever lost through the effort and time to double-check. Even a gut-check partially through a task or operation can be a warning signal.

To ignore it, to dismiss it... sometimes the reliance on what we know (or what we think we know), is the very thing that gets us into trouble.

It doesn't take much. We think we are doing well, doing things right, making good time. Then reality sets in. A question is asked. A statement is made.

The light-bulb goes off and you aren't anywhere in the ballpark.

Frustration. Stress. Anxiety. You are far from effective and even father from efficient.

Yet, God's grace is sufficient.

No matter your place or responsibility in life, such moments happen to the best of us (and the worst among us). Ministry operations are just as prone. And just as problematic.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, for those ministries and circumstances where major course corrections are having to be made. May God grant wisdom and discernment to know what changes need to be made and how best to go about them. Pray for strength, for the the extra effort, resources and time that will be required as a result. May, despite our failures and mistakes, God would use such moments for His glory; that when we lack understanding and perspective, God is working the miraculous. May lessons be learned and faith strengthened, as we continue to press forward and persevere towards the plans and purposes God has ordained for our lives.

Mistakes are opportunities for the miraculous
Reminders that without Him
We can and are nothing.
But by the grace of God,
We live and move and have our being.
For His glory.

- PNC

I had an epiphany last night, as I considered what God had in store for today's post. As I reflected on a somewhat quiet day at home (battling a headache and my wife being under the weather), I realized the inspiration my kids provided. For as they played, the day was not nearly as quiet as I had hoped.

On this #effectiveSunday, I'll be the first to admit... how much do I miss, not so much because God isn't speaking, but because I'm not listening. Every parent knows this struggle. Anyone who watches kids for longer than 5 minutes, quickly discovers this.

It's easy to get caught up in activities and games, shenanigans and foolery... messing around and having fun. It's what kids do.

Yet, as adults, we have our  moments. Some days, not so many; other days, many more.

At some point, we catch ourselves with a sobering sense of reality... while we were caught up in whatever activity we were engaged it, did we miss what God said? Did we miss what He asked of us? Did we miss what He spoke over us? Did we miss His direction or declaration?

Is God frustrated? Has He called on someone else, because of our distraction?

Questions that only can be answered on an individual basis... in our quiet time with God. But answering them will bring insight into our effectiveness as the body of Christ.

Shall we pray, this #effectiveSunday, that God would help us to be aware of His Word and it's influence in our lives. May we be careful in the situations and circumstances we find ourselves, to keep our ears attuned to the voice of the Spirit; that we would not be so caught in the moment that we hear God speak. Though we have a child-like faith, may we have a mature mind, understanding the will of God, not only for our personal lives, but also for the church-at-large.

May the family of God
Function as a family.
Not full of strife and sickness,
But health and wholeness, love and discipline
Not fighting against each other, but working together
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Resurrection Band wrote a song by this title for their Innocent Blood album and while it's both a great and simple song, sadly for our friends at our Bridgepoint Church, in southeastern Michigan, the song become a reality.

Yesterday afternoon, there was smoke on the holy ground, as multiple fire departments responded to the call... their house was on fire. Taking out the sanctuary, daycare facilities and offices among the damaged, witnesses say the sad moment of truth was when the steeple toppled through the roof.

I can't imagine.

Some parishioners have attended the church for 40 plus years.

Miracle, of miracles, no events where being held on the campus at the time of the blaze and the community has already circled around them in support. Services for the 400 member church are being held at one of the local school facilities.

Which brings us to this #effectiveSunday. It's easy to look at an organization and ministry and think of how much more could be done with more money, more space, more equipment, resources or people. And while God uses those things to advance the kingdom and His people to proclaim, the effectiveness of ministry is in the people and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Though the buildings are nice and the technology is great, it is the people coming together to worship God and hear His Word that allows for a church to be equipped to impact their community.

Thus, on this sad, yet glorious morning, pray this #effectiveSunday that the body of Christ would be quickened and strengthened as we come together to glorify God. Despite great tragedy and loss, may the words of our testimony point a lost world to the person of Christ. Though we don't have the answers may our lives point to truth; that God is sufficient for all that we have need. May today be a celebration in God's provision in the past and the promise of the future; that He has plans and purpose for our lives, of hope and a future and not of harm. Pray for the leadership and congregation of Bridgepoint; may today be a day of new beginnings in what God would desire to accomplish through this loss. May their ministry return and recovery exponentially, as it did for Job.

For it is God who works in all things;
Beyond our understanding.
According to His riches in glory,
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

So, I had an epiphany this morning, as I was getting ready for church (and now watching the clock to leave for the same!) Courtesy of the timing of God, the Healing Stream Media Network's "The Healing Rock" radio station and David Zaffiro, singing "Find My Way."

I love this song, particularly because of the piano work, but as it played, I considered the story of the Prodigal. Upon realizing the error of his ways, he knew what to do to correct it. He knew where to go to correct it. He knew how to get their; he knew the posture to take and the words to say, whereby he might plead his case, as he acknowledge his mistake in life and submitted his request for forgiveness.

Wow!

Aren't we the same way?

We know what's wrong.
We know what we should be doing, saying, completing.
We know how to respond.
We know to whom we should turn.
We know what we must confess.
We do, in fact, know where God is and how to get to Him.

Yet, all to often, we sit far too long in the mess in which we've created (and perhaps others have contributed to making for us). The "ah-ha" moment comes at different times for all of us, but thankfully, like the prodigal's father, neither does our Heavenly Father move or leave. He is the same God, in the same place, as He was when we failed as humans, and took off... in search of what was ultimately, worse than what we apart of from the beginning.

On this #effectiveSunday, will you pray with me, today is an epiphany day? Pray the realization of many; that whereve we find ourselves, may we find our way closer to God our Father. We cannot be effective in what we know and do and where we go unless we pick ourselves up. May today be a day of movement and progress; not a pulling away by our desires, but a drawing to the presence of God by the move of the Holy Spirit. Pray we would not be hindered in our efforts, nor delayed in our journey; but directed by the power of God.

Find our way;
That we may know His way
For our lives and our families.
Our churches and communities.
Led by the Spirit.
To be in right relationship with the Father.
For His glory.

- PNC

We all have those days where we just don't know.

Don't know if we can keep going.
Don't know if we can keep working.
Don't know if we can keep focused.
Don't know if we have enough energy.
Don't know if we have enough wisdom.

Don't know if we have the wherewithal to "doitall".

You understand life doesn't stop for you, nor around you. There's plenty to do and say and yet you simply want to not think about it. Some of it. Most of it. Maybe all of it.

Can certain worries and concerns be surgically removed from your purview?
Can frustrations and tensions be released and returned back to their rightful place; far and away from our mind and spirit?

I wish I had better answers. Or perhaps more explainable answers. But I don't.

Yes. The answer is yes, to all the above.
But not on your own.

Not by sight, but by faith.
Not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of the Lord.

We all have battles. We all have scars. We all have wounds and damages and while we could share our life stories and war stories and shake our heads in disbelief and our fists in anger to what has happened to us that has combined with the stupidity we've done that has created a toxic mental and heart issue, the truth is God stands with us. The Lord helps us in our weakness and intercedes on our behalf with groanings that can't be uttered. The Holy Spirit grants to us, wisdom and comfort. There is a covering of grace, made available to those who trust in God and look to Him.

I know the struggle is real. And that of many is much more than mine, we were to "share & tell". But God takes us, each where we are, if we would but press in to His presence, and press on through this life.

It may take all you have and then some, but the only way to continue to be effective starts by the simple act of continue. It is hard, I know... why do you think this post title is simply the tally since this site's relaunch back on June 1 of 2015? Because sometimes, all you can do is acknowledge where you are and ask again for God's hand of help.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday; God's strength on His people, to press in and seek His face. May many be encouraged, to press on and not quit. May we not give up on the faith which we profess, nor the hopes and plans God has ordained in advance for us to accomplish. Pray the church would be a place, where the damaged are made whole, the broken are repaired; the hurt are comforted and the weary are strengthened. For as much as God never fails or leaves us, may we not be so quick to check out on our faith when times get hard. Furthermore, may not be so quick to try to trump each other with who has the harder life or the more difficult struggle.  God stands ready for those who will call on Him; but it does require that we call and not remain in ourselves.

Rest for the weary.
Strength for the weak.
Hope for the despair.
Healing for the sick.
Protection for the afraid.
Whatever you need;
Look to I AM.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

ps: picture was discovered after writing this. Decided on the post title before writing, which is rare.
God has a sense of humor. You are going to be okay. He is closer than you know.

We don't like to think of the things and obstacles that stand in our way of accomplishing the task at hand. Whether we have set it before us, or someone else has placed it on our list; we all look at the mission, should we choose to accept it, and figure out a game-plan and strategy to "get it done".

To not expect or prepare for obstacles along the way would be foolish; like not preparing for the storm when building a house.

However, it's frustrating when the obstacle to a person or organization comes in the form or a person or group.

A parent dealing with the adamant attitude of a teenager... or the defiant voice of a child who thinks they are closer to their teen years than they actually are; a manager struggling to deal with the naysayers on the team; perhaps the team member whose boss won't listen to the voice of reasonable suggestion... whatever the situation, figuring out how to navigate the relationships that come into play with the task-at-hand can create and quickly become seemingly insurmountable obstacles to one's ability to be effective and efficient.

Over time, it affects the entire organization... or business... or church.

Thus, will you join me, as I offer my thanks once again for #praying4pastors. Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that God would grant to His people and church leadership, grace and wisdom in dealing with difficult people and tense relationships. May the Holy Spirit impart wisdom as places of understanding are sought; that people and teams would come to mutual and equitable agreements. Pray that emotions and feelings would not run the table, but the Word of God would guide their steps and prayer direct their conversation. May disagreements be worked out; that discernment would prevail as concerns are brought forth, addressed and solved.

Pray God would go before us, to show us the way.
May His presence go with us as we move forward.
For if God is not in it, then we should not desire it.
As we move forward, to advance the kingdom of God.
For His glory and honor; in the power of His name.

- PNC

So, yesterday was a little difficult to swallow.

I understand. How do you think I felt writing it?

As we've prayed before about the balance of ministry as we work to be both effective and efficient, as well as the balance in discovering where to start when we don't know at times; yesterday's post simply brought both back to the forefront of my mind.

It is entirely possibly for the church and it's congregation to be involved in both ministering at a local and an abroad level... to be both active and supportive.

If you'll permit me, we also have difficulty starting things, rather than sometimes simply stepping out and seeing what works. Granted there is an element of wisdom that needs to be practiced here, but all too often we allow not knowing exactly what all might happen or how and the unknown prevents us from doing anything at all. Is there something to be said about going and believing God will direct as you start taking the first steps in faith?

Perhaps. But one thing is certain. Inactivity and a lack of involvement will not advance the efforts of the kingdom of God. Nor obviously, will it lead to a sense of effectiveness and efficiency.

Pray, God would help all of us, this #effectiveSunday, to ministers of the gospel of Christ, and of grace. May we find our place of ministry, in both a local and global context. Pray God would grant us wisdom as we step and go, divinely directing by His sovereign hand. Pray the church would be a people who effectively fulfill the calling and purpose God has placed before us.

That not one would perish.
That we would stand before God
To hear "well done, good and faithful servant"
For if good news is share-worthy,
How much more, the Good News of Christ?

- PNC

"Why is it for every good thing you do around here, we've got to endure three screw-ups?"

I've often felt as Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman, as President Bartlet expresses this sentiment to him during the third season of The West Wing.

As I'm waiting for the loading process of my laptop this morning, this quote popped in to my mind, as a friend acknowledged the struggle from yesterday's post in a real-life moment of transparency.

I can't state it often enough... nobody is perfect and I'm am far from being closest to the top of the list. If I am, the list is in the order of farthest away first. Descending? Yes. (*insert brain freeze)

The statement accurately portrays every struggle to be effective and efficient and the frustration that set-backs and failures cause in the process. Whether in the politics of an administration, the business dealings of a company on the move or a church with a keen sense of the closeness of eternity, we've all said the following:

We don't have time for this today...

...mistakes, accidents, attitudes, drama, slowness, bad decisions, misunderstandings, distractions, traffic and down-right, colossal screw-ups.

Whether the fall-out is short-lived and recovery is but 5 minutes, or disaster strikes and the come-back is 5 years, the struggle is real and the road is hard.

People get hurt along the way.
Expectations get damaged.
Perceptions get skewed.

It happens to the best and brightest among us; for even Josh's co-worker Sam admits a couple episodes later in the series;

I love Josh like a brother. And his world-class political mind. But until today, I had no idea he was smarter than me."

As I've oft stated before, ministry is work. In the effort to be efficient and effective we need all the help, in heaven and on earth, to accomplish the work of the Lord.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for the Hand of God to strength and minister for those who feel as Josh and I have; being the screw-up more often than we've gotten "right." May their be a grace as they work and that God would grant them insight and direction as they go about their tasks, to do them well, working as unto the Lord. Pray also for leadership, as it's frustrating to see a person make mistakes and have to endure the set-backs that hinder the work and efforts of the church or organization. May their be a peace and a patience in their response, not that it doesn't go undealt with, but with wisdom from on High, for the glory of God. May such times be opportunities, in which God would move on our behalf to accomplish His will; that though it may seem we've undone God's Work, He is not caught off-guard and scrambling for solutions.

Indeed, He works all things for good.
Created to do good works
Extended grace for when we fall and fail.
That our lives and all we do would point back to Christ
To be used by God, not by our skills or knowledge, 
But for our willingness and availability.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Whether turning around a church from an internal operations vantage point; praying for hearts and minds to be illuminated to the truth and need for spiritual rebirth or working to change the reputation of a church as known by the church community and the community-at-large, one thing is consistent throughout them all...

None of it happens without seeking the face of God and calling down strength and direction in order to make the changes that will propel us make greater gains for the kingdom of God.

For all ones' efforts to be effective and efficient, regardless of what they attempt to do, God must be at the forefront... to be our reason for doing and to be our guidance as we go forward.

I'm reminded of God offering His protection and provision, but not His presence. And His offer was rejected.

God... if you don't go, then neither do we.

It can be hard to hear the voice and direction of God.

Sometimes because we make it that way.
Sometimes because it actually us.

Which is why we are often reminded, encouraged and instructed... to wait upon the Lord. It's not inactivity during the meantime as we wait, but being faithful in what we have before us to do until God directs the change in course.

The process; the order; the sequence of how God works...

It may look, seem and feel like chaos at the moment, but this is what God does.

Beauty from ashes.
Laughter from mourning.

The times and trials of our lives are all for His glory and His honor... that whatever we do, we should as unto the Lord. That alone, may very well help Christians and the church-at-large be more effective and efficient in carrying out the work of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, a renewed commitment and energy from the body of Christ, to continue to seek the face of God first. May we wait upon the Lord more than ever before. May we be faithful to the work He has already set before us to accomplish. Pray the struggles, trials and distractions of life would not dissuade or detour us, but that we would focus on the more on His character and His faithfulness towards us. Pray for a greater clarity in the decisions we make and the direction we take, whether as an individual Christian, for our families and for the body of Christ as we join together. Pray today would make the dawning of rebirth and revitalization among us... not be torn down and weighted by the concerns of the world, but exchange with Him, for His burden is light. May God strengthen those whose hearts are set on Him and may we know not to take one solitary step unless the presence of God goes with us.

For the glory and honor of God
In whom we live and move and have our being.
For the advancement of the cause of Jesus Christ.

​- PNC

It's pretty simple, really.

The more you stay "on task" the more you get done.

Every distraction, every interruption, every "I'm just checking something out for a second" (which quickly become 2 or 3 minutes),  pulls away your focus, energy and ultimately, your momentum.

Sure, you may still get quite a few things accomplished at the end of the day, but a few moments of honest reflection could quickly result in the realization that perhaps, you could and should have been further along than where you are.

For leaders, this frustration rises a few notches, when it carries over to the team. Stepping away to keep others focused and energized takes time and effort. All the more, negotiating any conflicts that arise along the way.

Whether it be paid staff, a team of volunteers or simply getting the kids help around the house, staying on task and reminding others to do the same robs us of time and energy and ultimately diminish both the effectiveness and efficiency of our best efforts.

It's not to say there shouldn't be some fun and rest along the way... nobody likes a harsh task-master. But there are real priorities and matters of importance to tend to, all the more for that which hangs in the balance of eternity.

**see how hard this is. I took a couple seconds to think about what to write in the prayer section and like 5 or 8 minutes later...**

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church and its' leadership would continue to be faithful in the ministry and work of the Lord that you have called them to. May they be encouraged and energized to stay focused and "on task" for what is at hand. Pray for the redeeming of time, for the days are evil. Pray for effective delegation and distribution of ministry, for indeed many hands make the load light. For the burdens and dreams that leadership carry, pray God would accomplish the miraculous in those situations and bring forth greatness that would glorify God.

That all may know,
The love and power that comes from Almighty God.
May whatever we find to do,
Do as unto the Lord.
With all that is within us
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Not everybody can do every thing.

Gifts, talents, personalities and abilities all  come together and often, don't play well. Other times they do and it's for the best.

The wisdom and discernment necessary in any organizations' leadership team or decision-making process is crucial when they consider the purpose and plan they set to pursue.

Certain tasks require an experience, an understanding, a maturity (especially of faith, in the church arena), sometimes there's even an age factor... it's what learning is all about.

As I reflected on this yesterday, I was reminded of the now famous quote by auther Jim Collins, in his book, Good To Great.

"They start by getting the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats. And they stick with that discipline—first the people, then the direction—no matter how dire the circumstances."

It's uncomfortable in the church, to talk about getting the "wrong people" of the bus, as we are all members of the body of Christ. Nobody is suggesting, someone not being welcome in the church, not by an stretch of the imagination. That said, not everyone is made for church leadership roles and influence either. Like any organization, problems and difficulties arise as conflicts come to light... for whatever reason.

It's not a fun prospect, but as churches evaluate their levels of effectiveness and efficiency for the cause of Christ, change can be difficult but necessary.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday for churches struggling to make progress in their ministry efforts. May God grant to pastors and leaders wisdom and discernment. Though the conversations may be difficult as they work the process of analyzing who is where, doing what and if that's the best place for them and their giftings, may God grant them a covering of grace. As people of faith come together, may their be a spirit of understanding; that personalities and egos would not rise above as matters of greater importance than the work of the Lord. Pray the spirit of offense would be kept at bay; that the church would resist the temptation to get frustrated and bothered by personal agendas and motives.

May God's work continue to advance,
Despite humanities flaws that come to light and stand in the way
God help us to walk true to the calling placed upon us
To glorify you in all things
And work as unto the Lord
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

Good Morning 2017!!

Resolutions do no good, if you first do not make an internal resolve.

You can make the list, as many of them as you want, but until there is an internal x-factor... a mixture of determination and desire, that propels you to action, then you've simply perfected your list-making skills.

All the conversations in the world accomplish little if one doesn't begin acting on the strategies and ideas that have come forth. You've become proficient in talking about things, but have little clue when someone says "let's do this"

Rest is necessary and crucial to the success of whatever one sets out to achieve... right up until the point that it becomes an invitation to procrasinate... at which time, you know have a new enemy.

Then enemy becomes a mess, as time and space are extended to this creature, until you are surrounded by a whole host of things and matters that cause you to wonder how and where you begin.

Life is hard, but it doesn't have to be as hard as we make it.
Life is stressful, but it doesn't have to be as taxing as we think about it.
Life is a journey and surely we miss the enjoyment of most of it as it passes us by.

Effectiveness and efficient only come through action. Wherever you are, whatever you face, ultimately, action is what's next. You may not be ready to start, but continuing to take steps of action will keep you moving forward...

Into the new year and the many more that follow, should the Lord tarry.

Pray, this New Year's #effectiveSunday, that today would be a day of action in what's NEXT. May what is meant to derail, detour and destroy us, be cast aside by the hand of God. Pray a spirit of resolve, to press on and step forward in the confidence and boldness of Christ. Pray a continual seeking of the face of God; keeping Him first in all things, focused on what matters and not distracted by the things that don't. Pray this would be a year of great fulfillment in the presence of God and great accomplishment for His Kingdom.

Blessings on you and your households and friends.
Happy New Year, my dear friends.
May this be the best year ever!
For the glory of God.

- PNC

How cool is is, that every handful of years, the calender works out that we can gather together, to praise and worship the Lord our God, while simultaneously celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ.

What a great day and a great opportunity for the church to be effective in communicating the Good News of the Divine Plan of God, to send His only Son to Earth, to save us from our sins. Indeed it was the only way for us to be restored in to right relationship with God, after the fall of man.

Of course, one of the greatest reminders of the purpose of Christmas is this great tune from the band, Stryper.

It's easy to think we have life figured out, that we can do things on our own, away from God; without Christ and everything is fine. Yet it's not.

Life is not complete without the joy of Christ... not a temporal joy that comes from watching kids, friends and loved ones open gifts, but the heart of man receiving the eternal joy of life, through confessing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.

Pray, this Christmas #efffectiveSunday, may many discover the truth and reason for Christmas. Pray this would be a great day for the kingdom of God, that people would acknowledge the greatest gift ever given to humanity, through the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. May the church itselft, remember that today is about Christ and the generousity exemplified by God, rather than the temporal gifts and blessings of this earth.

For the eternal blessings and gifts of God
Far and away are greater that what man could ever hope to give and receive.
For we were made for the glory of Almighty God
As we take opportunity to worship Him together.

Merry Christmas

- PNC