I'm reminded once again, of a very simple, yet profound truth. It's basic to the process, but crucial in our understanding.

With great organization, comes great effectiveness and efficiency.

Correspondingly, where there is a lack of organization, the results of effectiveness and efficiency will not only be hindered, but possibly elusive. Consider the beauty of cool looking puzzle. Everyone is impressed with the final result. But at the beginning? Well... enthusiasm to see the project through to completion often wanes, with out a plan of attack and a systematic approach, to see what all the pieces are and how and when they fit into the grand scheme.

The power of organization. It does so well, when everyone is healthy, firing on all cylinders and each being utilized to the best of their abilities to accomplish what they were designed and created to do. But when things are a amiss, the motor will run not so smooth. And eventually, the wear and tear continues to create a decline and a detriment until problems emerge... at a very noticeable and perhaps troublesome level.

Which got me thinking. What's the difference between a church on the rise and a church in decline? The point person arranging the puzzle pieces. And that's not always the senior pastor. Yes, they need to be casting overall vision. But so should the ministries within the church. And integration to help each other. And the people who can move them to be self-sufficient ministries and organizations on their own, where and when possible and warranted.

The church should be so much more than just Sunday morning. And the most effective ones are.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for churches that are struggling to make the impact they hope they would. Whatever their current position and size, pray that God would drop a dream in the spirit, of what could exist. Pray they would understand what God would have them to accomplish and how to go about it, as well as putting the people in the right places and providing the resources necessary. Pray also, for those who are highly organized, dreaming big dreams. May God go before them, as they are stretched and challenged to believe and pursue the impossible.

Every community can be changed
By a church that is ready to go
And be the hands and feet of Christ extended.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Everyone knows that one can't possibly fix every problem, address every issue or diffuse every stressful situation. But somehow that doesn't keep us from trying. Often through over-analysis and countless possible run-through scenarios.

Talk about killing one's effectiveness, because at some point and degree, this becomes a waste of time and energy. For surely, not everything is within your control, especially that which relies on the efforts and input of others. But little is a more painful reminder of the priority of seeking God first and trusting in Him than being told that it's entirely possible that perhaps you aren't doing so. Or having to admit that you aren't doing it nearly enough.

How many times have you been on the receiving end of that conversation? Probably more times than you care to count.
So let me be frank with how many times I've been on the receiving end. More times than I care to admit. Plus one more after service today.

Are we relying upon God for all that we have need off? Probably.
Are we relying upon the power of the Holy Spirit to be our "helper"? Probably not enough.

And here's the critical point of emphasis regarding ministry. It is not a one-time event. It is an ongoing process; an ongoing conversation; a life-long spiritual journey of learning and experiencing the grace and glory of God. The momentous events are life-changing. The mundane of daily life are sustaining building blocks and stepping stones that help us emerge as over-comers when the momentous happens.

Continue to pray, this #effectiveSunday that the body of Christ would not be so burdened with the test, trials and struggles of life that we neglect our faith, nor our time with God. Pray that we would draw ever closer to the presence of God and call upon the name of the Lord in our time of need. May the power of the Holy Spirit be ever-so present in our lives, that we are quickened, strengthened and encouraged to press in and press on at the times it would seem least likely for one to do so. Pray God would help us to persevere; that we would neither fail or falter, but see the race to the end, that He would be glorified, regardless of our status, lifestyle or accomplishments.

That the Gospel would go forth
As we go with God.
Day by day
Even in moments of trouble.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I trust you've had a great day. Mine was put into perspective during today's service... on the story of Ananias & Saphira.

It's an interesting, one as the pastor who preached it noted, highlights that there are stories of God's holiness highlighted in the New Testament that is filled with grace, just as there are moments of grace in the Old Testament that is full of God holiness.  

In addition though, it's a story of unnecessary deception. An interesting topic to walk away from, feeling a slight sense of conviction. So, as it pertains to the project, a point of confession. I didn't write Friday's post. Nor Saturday's for that matter. I could post date it and, sadly, have done so in the past. My justified reasoning for missing Friday could include a 14+ hour workday, but nobody cares. And by the time I meant to write yesterday's... well, regardless.

Here it is Sunday, and just how effective are we in ministry?

Well, of the numerous, profound statements that I took down in my notes, this one stands out, as a perspective to the question of the church's effectiveness.

The church should not be filled with people who are happy about calling out one's wrong-doings.

Pastor explained, that when Peter talked with Saphira, he was giving her an opportunity to come clean about the matter. And when she didn't, Peter doesn't give his reply as a statement of power and condemnation... "the men who carried out your husband stand at the door to carry you out!" No. Peter's words are full of sadness and sorrow. "I hate to be the bearer of bad news... "This conversation was totally avoidable, as was the very nature of the circumstance for that matter." But this is your fate...

It makes you wonder, just how accurate and staggering, the statistic is, of people who have been more turned off towards God because of the people who occupy the church, rather than God and His word. Case in point? How often we forget that a simple act of kindness can display God's great power. All too often, we get caught on waiting for God to do the miraculous while someone is waiting for help with the electric bill. But because we don't help their need, then words and expectations are of little value to those we are trying to reach.

As a result, the rate of effectiveness diminishes. Because we don't properly balance the call for holiness with the opportunity for grace. Because we hold out for great displays of God's power and miss the opportunity for a simply act of kindness. For none of us know what will be the proof, that God is real and that He cares.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, a very simple prayer. Pray that we would be people of truth, people of kindness and people of holiness. May we be happy to be extenders of grace, rather than condemning judges.

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

- PNC

ps: I finally settled on a title, after writing this post and now I have DC Talk's song by the same title, stuck in my head.

I wasn't sure what might bre in store for this post, until pastor stated a powerful reminder from Scripture. He had a taken a few moments before preaching to call forward for a prayer, a group of couples who were taking an impromptu missions trip And by impromptu, I mean, this wasn't something the church had planned and laid out and asked people to sign up if they were interested in going. No, this was simply a handful of couples, agreeing literally, to a mission. They leave next weekend and I'm hoping, I'll remember come #missionsFriday, to pray for them as they go.

But as pastors prayed, he mentioned what we somehow often push to the background in the ministry efforts of the church.

Unless the Lord builds it, the people labor in vain.

Whatever you do, wherever you go, whatever you plan to attempt for God, is essentially foolishness, if God has not, is not, does not go before you and prepare the way. It's true for all of us. As believers. As ministry leaders. As pastors. It really is that simple. All the best laid plans, all our best efforts and endeavors, whether we intend to do so or not, is potentially futile, if we do not continually call on God and seek His face, from on the outset and throughout the process as we step out in obedience to do and be what we feel He has called us to accomplish.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, God would go before us and prepare the way and establish the plans He has for us. Pray that we walk in obedience to what He has called us to do and laid on our heart to achieve. May we place our trust in Him, especially when it scares us a bit to do so.

Build it, God.
For your glory,
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yes, I'm writing this later in the day...again. It's okay. You'd figure it out soon enough, when I opened this post with how I found myself chuckling in my spirit during this morning's service. Yesterday we talked on here about letting love conquer. And at church, today was the second in a series dealing with the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The emphasis was in particular, on the gifts of faith, healing and miraculous power. In closing, pastor asked the question, "how do we "activate" the gifts.

It was then that he pointed out what we find about the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In 1 Corinthians 12, we read about what they are. In chapter 14, we read about how they function in within the body of Christ and the life of the believer. In the middle... if they are used without love, it's meaningless.

For all the things the church does, in order to be effective and efficient in ministry, not just on Sunday, but every other day of the week and yet, if it's not done in love, and if we don't pray over our efforts with an attitude and understanding of love, then it all is for naught. Not only is that disconcerting, it's downright sad.

With that impact being made, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, everything we say and do for the advancement of the Gospel and the kingdom of God would be done in love. Pray that the more we know and understand God's love, that we would walk and act in continuation as we go about our days. Pray that the gifts of the Spirit that we are to eagerly desire, would be put to great use, because of the love of God that flows from our being and through our lives to others around us. May we be known, as we are to be known, by having love for one another.

For while our hands can accomplish much,
They do so much more when multiplied by the Hand of God
And the power of the Holy Spirit at work within us.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So, I'm standing by the check-in desk to drop the kids off for their service this morning at church. Coffee on the desk, half-gone already. And I'm not sure what happened, if I picked it up and loosened my grip or what... but the next thing I knew I was watching it fall. For whatever reason, I kept replaying the scene a few times during the middle of praise and worship (sorry God) and wondering; why didn't you grab it mid-air before it landed? You didn't even make an attempt to save it. You just watched it plummet and empty itself

For years now, we've prayed every Sunday for a day of effectiveness and efficiency regarding the ministry efforts of the church and the advancement of the kingdom of God. Yet this morning, I pondered...

Just how effective are the negative events, actions and words in our lives because of our inaction? We watch tragedy happen, sometimes in slow-motion, thinking we should intervene and yet, as if we are frozen in time, we don't respond. At all, let alone, before the coffee hits the floor. I know this. That was a great cup of coffee. And I was bummed to have lost what I was in the middle of enjoying. How much more important things are there in this life, that are much more tragic because of my inaction? What about you? What about eternity? Are we watching as if life is moving in slow-motion? My youngest celebrated another birthday today. I can assure, life is absolutely not moving slowly, let alone in cinematic slow-motion likeness.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would not be those who simply watch life pass us by, up and over. Pray that we would see opportunity to intervene and interact in ways and words that will change lives for the good of humanity and eternity. May we not get frustrated and discouraged by the temporal things such as spilled coffee. Pray we not be effective nor efficient at being lazy and unproductive, but engaged and encouraged to speak and to share life with the hurting and the dying.

For as the Word of the Lord gives life
So should the words of our brothers and sisters
Strengthen and encourage said life.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

My wife and I went to an improv comedy show last night and had a blast. And as I considered today's post before service this morning, I recalled the closing skit from the show. The power of communication without words is incredible, especially when you are attempting to ascertain what someone is doing or what something means. It's also absolutely hilarious.

It's amazing how quickly the message gets through. Likewise, depending on the circumstance, either laughable or frustrating, if the message takes what seems like forever before the receiver understands what is going on.

So to is the Gospel understood. Sometimes quickly. Other times, after great lengths. Often through the use of words. Perhaps, more often than realize, accomplished without words. The Gospel that shares salvation. Speaks truth. Offers grace. Extends forgiveness. Exposes sin. Loves unconditionally.

For all the effort that we hope and pray will be effective beyond our abilities and imaginations; you truly have to wonder if and when the message misses the mark. It's a sobering thought and rightly so. But it is reality, as uncomfortable as it is to consider. As such, we do indeed, need God's help.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that the message God desires to give to the world, would not get lost in translation through the flawed and broken lives of redeemed sinners. Pray that lives would connect, whereby grace, love, truth and forgiveness is expressed, offered and received in the exchange that is the presentation of the Gospel. May their be a sensitivity and awareness about our lives, that there are people around who are struggling in the darkness as we all once did. While we may still stumble, there are many who have yet figured out how to call to God for assistance in getting back up.

For while we will rise again,
Many have yet to rise once.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Effectiveness requires engagement. Retained effectiveness requires sustained engagement.

There's a wisdom and discernment that comes with knowing when and how to approach circumstance and conversation; as the game is played on yard at time, one run at a time or one pass at time. Rarely is there a one time shot and win. The accomplishing of goals, agendas and purposes require the continual practice of repetition.

Find what works. Do what works. Continue with what works.

But all too often, we don't search long and hard enough to find what works. Discouragement sets in as though the answer will forever elude us. Or upon doing what works, obstacles and energy expended drain us to the point that we no longer feel we can continue; even when we know we should.

Continued engagement is a discipline. And at times, an incredible difficult, albeit simple decision.

And so, the prayer is quite simple.

On this #effectiveSunday, God help us! Help us to continue to engage in a culture that denies the eternal truth of who You are, what You have accomplished and what You desire for those devoted to You. Pray for the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit to fall afresh and renew the hearts and minds of those tired and weary of the spiritual battle that dominates our days and times. May their be a breakthrough in the hearts and minds of those who want nothing to do with Christ or those who follow Him. Pray our hope and trust would remain steadfast, placed in Him who sits on the throne of grace, for which we all have need of; whether we have yet to acknowledge it only once or every moment of our lives.

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

- PNC

I sat in church this morning thinking about the seemingly insignificant.

Simple impacts.

It's amazing how the simplest of acts can have long-term impacts.
Or at least last for a more extended period of time that we think is normal.

And sometimes, that how life works. You don't know what will make the biggest impact. You don't know what will turn out to become the moment that is held as an example of effectiveness. You don't always see the hidden detail in the process that cranks up the efficiency factor.

Sometimes life is a matter of trial and error; where there is no "we have to have it all figured out before we step out". A learning curve requires movement down the road; otherwise you are just talking about it when you should be experiencing it. Most people don't have it all figured out. I certainly don't. And even when I do, life has a way of changing things up and if life doesn't, just wait a few more minutes... for God certainly might move things around.

Does God have great things in store for us? Absolutely. But they often follow our obedience on the simple. We shouldn't overlook the insignificant, if for the only reason that that is often where God does His best work.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that we would be faithful and obedient in the simple acts and words in the moments and times of opportunity where we can make a positive impact. Pray that God would give us wisdom and discernment to know what to do and say; when and to whom. May we not fear the unknown of the future, but live and walk in the power of the present.

For today is a gift.
Created by God
And we have been created to do good works
For His glory.

- PNC

I wonder sometimes just how often people encounter the same (or similar) set of circumstances and trials repeatedly, but for what essentially can be summed up as "the same lesson."

History does repeat itself. However, the way to change the story is to do things differently, the things that you wish had be done differently when it happened the first time or around (or previous times). That's how things get better. Otherwise, you continue to do the wrong thing and fight the same battle and endure the same struggle.

My long-held battle.... rest. Especially, well, I'll admit to recent weeks, but sadly, it's probably been a much longer struggle.

Lack of proper rest kills great effectiveness and strong efficiency. It is an incredible battle.

Responsibilities abound.
Tasks never end.
Relationships demand engagement.

And it's entirely possibly that self-interests can and do occupy an unhealthy amount of time and energy, which robs crucial time from proper rest that leads to greater effectiveness. In other words, procrastination is nobody's friend.

Thus, a body out of balance will run a very rough road and lead an even rougher life. And it won't solely be the fault of the road or of life... but largely on the person's ability to handle it, by taking care of their body, mind, spirit and soul.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would indeed, be people who would take greater care of our bodies, not only physically, but spiritually, mentally and socially as well. Pray that procrastination would far removed from our realm of temptation. Conversely, may we find balance, to find proper rest for the body as well as the soul; that we may get more accomplished not only for that which lies before us, but that for which God has purposed and created us. Pray God would help us to fulfill our destiny and all the more we steward our lives, as lived through the fullness of our beings.

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

- PNC

Is it possible?

I know we talk about a negative test becoming a positive testimony.
And a negative mess becoming a positive message.

But then there are the events that shake us and change us at the very core. And through any number of decisions, influences and reactions; if we allow it, a negative impact can turn into a negative identity.

We may have our moments of success and our seasons of good and that's fine.

But the power of the cross is the transformation of our lives through Christ.

The worst of battles and the most horrific of circumstances, while they may have a forceful impact do not have to have such a controlling effect upon that we limit what we are capable of doing. Let alone, should we allow such events to keep us from allowing God to accomplish His plans and purposes for our lives.

In other words, I think life is complex enough that it's possible to have a positive testimony, while still struggling with a negative identity. It's likely that many live their days sharing at times a positive message in public, but an internal battle of poor communication about and to themselves in regards to God's sovereign work.

What a conflict to endure that surely impacts ones effectiveness for the cause of Christ. I get it's a process; one that isn't always corrected in an instantaneous moment of the miraculous. However, I think people live years and decades with the belief that God can't or won't do for them. I believe He can. I believe He wants to do so. We can blame someone else or some event as the barrier between us and God, but ultimately, it is us. A simple reaction, changes all. Difficult, but simple.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that we not allow the negative, albeit powerful and overwhelming events of life to define us and hinder are abilities regarding God's plan. Pray we would open ourselves to being transformed by the power of God, rather than the attacks against us. Though we may be robbed of many things in this life, may we allow the work of the Holy Spirit to do a restorative work within us; though we stumble and fall for many reasons, may we rise again for One.

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

- PNC

A simple key to greater effectiveness?

Develop and continue the practice of good decision-making.

There's much that is wrong and troubling in the world, I think we can all agree.
But on a personal level, there is little more frustrating than to look back at a moment or an event and think...

"boy, was that stupid."

Decisions about work and career.
Decisions about friends and relationships.
Decisions about money.
Decisions about attitudes and behaviors.
Decisions of incredible importance and many more of the utterly unimportant.

They all come together to create what we affectionately refer to as "welcome to my life." Good, bad, ugly and hopefully, not indifferent. For whether they be good or bad, decisions or the lack there of comes from our intent. And while as good as they may be at times, we all too-often miss the mark and regret the outcome. Are we all not human?

Yet, that truth causes a greater hindrance towards are effectiveness. We also look to the better and the more as desirable and necessary, not realizing that while yes, perhaps "more" is needed, we could also get quite far down the road of effectiveness if we better utilized the skills and knowledge that we have within us, before us, right now.

So, on that note, pray this #effectiveSunday, that God would indeed help us to make the most of what we stand here with today and get done what we can while it is today. Pray that regret and all its' frustration would not dominate our perspective nor cloud our judgement on current matters. May God help us to live intentional; with every decision and relationship. Pray that are lives would be increasingly greater examples of Christ's work in our lives and that our work as a result would bring greater glory to God.

For we are His handiwork
Created to do GOOD works
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Unless you are Christ, one person can only do so much. One person can only go so far.

The next level, the next plateau, the next stage in advancement and progression always requires something that is not within us. For the believer, we should never try to do anything on our own. For one, God knows the plans He has for us.
Secondly, He cares about us. So if it's important to us, it is important to Him.

All too often though, we get caught up in both the excitement and stress of life and attempt to start working our own game-plan, executing our own strategy and seeking all kinds of advice and resources for help. Do we leave God out entirely?

No, most often we do not.

But more often than we should, we don't rely on Him first. We don't necessarily seek Him first. He is not first to whom we cast our cares. Nor our dreams, for that matter.

Trying everything else, before doing the best; going to everyone else before approaching the best...

God is willing, ready and able to help, intervene and move on our behalf. All it takes is one step towards Him.
How much of our effectiveness and efficiency is hindered from our not being more open to moving in His direction, at a greater and quicker pace than we currently do?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that we would be even more open. Not only to the things of God and the moving of God, but an opening of our hearts and minds to how and what He would specifically desire to work, build and grow in within.  Pray fear, anxiety and stress from the cares of the world and its' responsibilities would not stand as a stumbling block nor a bondage that would prevent us from seeking and running to God and doing so first. May God work the miraculous, as we seek, pray and go in the direction and prompting of the Holy Spirit.

As we have placed our faith in God
So to should our confidence lie.
To our betterment
For His glory.

- PNC

Among the many facets that come together to create effectiveness, lie two pivotal bearings.

Knowing where you are.
Knowing where you are going.

Listening to Stryper's latest album, they ask a poignant question, in the third track, simply titled Lost.

Are we lost?

We all have things to do, goals to accomplish and directions in which we are heading. We are facing many battles, struggles and obstacles along the way. Does it take much to throw us off course and lose our bearings? Hopefully not. But when the beat-down is strong, what is keeping you in the game?

What's more... what is keeping you in advancement mode. Yes, sometimes it is survival mode, but the advancement remains reachable, hopeful, and worthwhile. Because we hold fast to the truth. We hold fast to the promise. We keep our eyes on the goal, while having a keen awareness of the surroundings.

There is no effectiveness in burnout.
There is great effectiveness in continuance, especially where there is clarity of vision and purpose.

Pray this #effectiveSunday for those feeling lost and overwhelmed by their state of existence. Pray that they would hold fast to the promise and faith which has brought them to today. May God strengthen and quicken them; that they would neither quit nor retreat, but advance with renewed focus and intensity. Pray for increased awareness and clarity that would serve to increase their hope and trust in what God desires to accomplish in and through their lives.

Once lost; now found.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

We had a special service at church this morning, dedicated to school teachers and educators. It was a great time of giving and recognition and the pastor shared his message of the teachers who made a difference in his life. So often we think of the words or events that changed our truly, personally changed our lives, but that's not quite as powerful as the people with whom we have experienced a direct point of contact.

It's easy to reflect on what we have accomplished and point back to a time when information changed our lives or an event turned the course of things and a new shift changed the dynamics by which we lived, moved or perceived reality. Conversely, though, we can all point to a person or a relationship that has created a point of frustration and hindrance where we felt as though we were truly held back or disadvantaged by circumstances that were by and large, out of our control.

"Perhaps if someone else had done differently, I too would be doing differently."

I'm not absolving the individual into making excuses, but at the same time, legitimate negative factors do take their toll and have to be accounted for if we are to work towards solutions to overcome the obstacles that may lie before us, whether they be there on purpose or by accident.

That said, if you know your effectiveness has been hindered by people in the past, then is that not all the more reason to live today in such a way, that later, people will reflect upon your life and count you as one who moved them closer to greatness rather than held them back?

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed we would live with intention and purpose; to live great lives and build up those around us. May we recognize the greatness within those around us and call them out to live better than they are. Pray that we would live with a spirit of love and communicate with words of truth. May we people who would seek opportunitiy to make a difference in the lives of those around us, as Christ has work in our lives to make a difference for eternity.

For we were created with purpose,
For a hope and future
That we might glorify God
And point others to Him.
For the sake of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

There is no effectiveness of results if there is no motivation to begin; and limit results if what was begun is not continued.

There's any number of obstacles and mindsets that hinder and altogether prevent events from happening. And somehow, somewhere, something needs to propel us... advance us... MOTIVATE us to press on and press thru to do that which needs to be accomplished.

Of course, it helps if we know exactly what it is that we wish to accomplish. That goes without saying, but it helps to repeat it. Perhaps even say it aloud as you read it.

It helps to know exactly what it is that we wish to accomplish!

That alone should be motivation even; provided it's a big enough Why.

Dave Ramsey talks about this all the time. If the reason for doing something is motivation enough to move forward, then you don't have a big enough reason. The dream should be huge. A business and leadership author calls them BHAG's.

Big. Hairy. Audacious. Goals.

Too often times, we get focused on size as if it were an obstacle that can't be overcome. However, quite the opposite is true. The end result needs to be a big enough target, that in our pursuit of it, we will never miss hitting it.

With that mindset, the effectiveness of the church and its' ministry, should be an ever-increasing, daily occurrence.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church and its' leadership would not lose their motivation, nor their sight on the goal and vision of their purpose. Pray that they would neither lose hope, nor burnout from the fatigue of the process. May God strength their spirits and renew their hearts and minds. Pray their focus would be sharp. Pray for clarity where there is confusion; hope for despair and peace in exchange for chaos.

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

- PNC

Rest. It does a body good.

That's almost profound and powerful enough, that I should just write the prayer right now, right?

But seriously...

It's incredibly hard to be both effective and efficient when the body is lacking adequate rest. Nothing makes you appreciate this more, except the glorious aging process of the human body. Perhaps, I should have said "glorious". Although the wisdom that comes with age does bring a certain glory to a person.

But the body is an amazing creation. It knows when there is trouble. Warning signs and systems in place that detect all kinds of trouble, with the ability to give both a gradual, advanced notice as well as an instantaneous, shocking alarm.

A lack of good rest though, wreaks all kinds of havoc. Tasks get dropped, projects get delayed and information gets scrambled all because the body is not fully alert. No matter what business you are about doing; this can have serious repercussions. We've all watched it happen. And we've most likely experienced in our own lives... with calls that were a little to close to admit to, even in the strictest of confidence.

That said, we'd all do well, to take care of these bodies that God has entrusted to us.
*Said the guy who struggles with this, himself.

Hence, on this #effectiveSunday, pray that God would grant us, starting now, the ability to experience a sound and peaceful rest. Pray that He would help us to cast our cares on Him, for the circumstances and matters that are causing higher levels of stress, frustration and anxiety. May we not live in or with a spirit of fear, but approach our days with the peace of mind that surpasses all understanding. Pray God would help us to take better care of these bodies; that often know better than our minds do, when things are amiss. May God work the miraculous through us, as He works in us, to accomplish the plans and purposes He has prepared for us in advance.

For our lives are not are own;
We've been bought with a price
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

"There is no excuse for a boring sermon. The Word of God is too exciting for that!" - Pastor Ron Morrison

He's right, you know.

We've all struggled to spend time in the Word, let alone some serious quality time and study devoted to it. It's a constant struggle for me. Like anything else though, it's a discipline. And while I expect that pastors and church leadership would find it incredibly exciting, I do know this much is true...

Too many people have sat in many a church service where the pastor's enthusiasm for God's Word was not blatantly obvious as they delivered the message.

So Pastor Morrison is correct. Granted, the Word should excite each believer on its' own merit and I'd agree with you, the effectiveness of the church is hindered if it is taking it's cue for getting into God's Word from the pastor. Having said that though, there is also no cue to be given, if the pastor doesn't display their own excitement about the Bible.

Thus, it stands to reason... a boring sermon will not spur me on to read more of Scripture as my week progresses. Nor will it do that for you. But if the spark is kindled and the fan within us is flamed as the Word of God is made alive by the one who stands on the stage and delivers what God has revealed to them through prayer and devoted study to the Bible; then how does one NOT hang on to that in the hours and days to come?

Should that energy not prompt us to want more, and learn more, pray more, read more and know more for ourselves? And in doing so, perhaps opportunity will give way for us to share that with someone else as our lives advance over the course of the coming week?

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that the effectiveness of the church would be great, because of the excitement and passion of God's Word; that draws us into His presence, whereby we would not only know God, but be known by Him. Pray for pastors who have lost the passion and energy in their sermons; may a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit quicken them as they study and prepare. Pray that as active and alive as the Word of God is, may the church apply it to their lives, knowing and understanding its' words and context whereby we would heed its' wisdom. Pray for revelation and transformation as God reveals Himself in greater detail than we have known or experienced.

For it is His Story
Of His love for all humanity.
May we know it, embrace it and apply it
For His glory and purpose.

- PNC

It's hard to be effective at the things for which you put forth little to no effort. In fact, nearly as impossible as you get can, the lower the effort quotient. Somewhere in the process, effort must be exerted.

Words communicated, actions taken, time invested, resources utilized, funds spent... whatever the work is that you are to be about doing, eventually requires you taking intentional steps to get things done.

But don't listen to me... I've had one of the more unproductive weekends I recall having in a while. Call it a funk. Call it whatever you want. Call it an excuse; because at the end of it, that's probably about I have to offer.

Life is a journey, full of lessons. The frustrating ones are not the ones that are most difficult to learn; the are the one's that we have learned, but struggle to implement and institute into our lives, daily where applicable. And I was reminded once again, today, the simple fact of all of our lives. Eternity weighs in the balance. Not only for our own lives, but the lives our family, friends, neighbors and co-workers. You can almost visualize the [your] that exists when Christ told the disciples to go into the world.

So, while this is a later #effectiveSunday post, pray that today would be effective in that it's the day we start afresh as we enter the first full week of August, to live and be the people of God that we have been called to be according to His perfect and sovereign plan. May we glorify Him both in word and in deed, wherever we go and with whomever we come in contact with as we go about our daily lives. Pray for an awareness about our hearts and minds; that we may speak truth and life with intentionality and compassion to those in need... even for those who don't know that they have a spiritual need.

God, help to live
Life as you have set us apart from the world,
But effective in the world for the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Yes, it's a post-service post on this #effectiveSunday but it's okay. You'll be okay, I promise.

I not exactly sure what to call a moment of realization, that really doesn't reach the level of epiphany or revelation. An "a-ha" moment doesn't even quite provide accurate description. It was simply one of those, refreshing, "wow, that's really cool"  how that works, except it was about a truth you've always known to be true. Does that make sense? Yes, PNC... it will after you tell us what you're talking about!

So, after communion this morning, the band was doing the closing song and singing about the finished work of Christ; that everything we needed and that He provided for us, was done at the cross. We often talk about our journey of faith being a process and that God is at work and yes, that's true for our understanding; plus it probably helps us manage and make sense out of life and circumstance for which the rest of the world has no answer as to why we are enduring such matters.

But God builds in "complete states". For all of creation, He spoke and it came into being. There were no eggs that hatched and grew into what we know today. He created in states of maturity. Adam and Even were not sweethearts from neighboring cribs. He created man and He then, created woman. The effectiveness of God's Work lies in the fact that God neither does anything half-baked nor half-planned.

His Word does not return void because there is nothing lacking from it. Neither is His plan ineffective because He has overlooked a detail or forgotten a piece of the universal puzzle. It all works by His sovereign Hand and precise timing because of the fullness of His glory and grace.

Thus, it begs the question... what in our lives and ministries are inefficient and ineffective because they are incomplete? Yes, I know there is always a new experience and better information that create to better level of proficiency regarding whatever it is that we are working on. Conversely, however, what do we make out to be more of a process than it should be because we fail to step in faith and obedience to what God has called us to do; thinking that we are missing elements and experiences that we are more concerned about having, even though God has already made provision for them?

Moses comes to mind. Call them excuses if you will, but it illustrates perfect this point. God had a plan, yet all Moses could see where the things in His life that he thought he was lacking to step out in obedience to that plan. God wasn't concerned about any of it, but Moses hesitated. God's work and plan was complete; Moses effectiveness perhaps hindered by his lack of understanding that such was the case.

On this #effectiveSunday, let that not be the case in our own lives. Pray that we would understand anew and afresh, that not only is God at work, but that His work and plan are complete. Pray that today would be a new step in faith and obedience as we understand what God would have us to do, say and go within our sphere of influence. May we not make excuses as Moses did, but trust that God has provided the process and means for us to be able to do what He has called us to do. For if it is by His grace that we are saved, then why should we consider it as though He is filling in the gaps of our short-comings. Our who lives are one short-coming; thus whatever God would accomplish in us is only do so because of His completeness.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Cross & Gospel of Jesus Christ.

- PNC