Perhaps my favorite of Russ Taff's discography, this song kept playing through my head for most of the day yesterday... as I struggled for a clear direction, as to what God had for this post.

I hope you know, I don't write this just for readership... I do, daily, simply, ask that God would grant me insight for the next post... which is why it blows my mind this is, the 614th consecutive post.

As my mind kept playing the lyrics to this song, however, after the ump-teenth time, the words "face to face with who I am" finally resounded.

Being launched for the post on critical thought, I began thinking of the religions, that have either as their basis or at the very least, a fundamental element, that life on earth can be made better, largely through self. Whether in their actions, or attitudes; in their thought life, one way or another; the betterment in one's life is not through a personal God.

So many voices, so many opinions and lines of thought; critical and otherwise... and while Christianity has often been described as self-serving, betterment of self is not the critical component.

While Christ is the foundation, the critical component is not what a person gains from their faith, but the acknowledgement of one's state from the outset of this faith.

"I am a sinner."

People look to religion, as if they look in the mirror desirous to figure out how they can be and do better.

Yet as believers, the look in the mirror compares our life to Christ.

In that light, as bleak as it may feel, there is no comparison. There is nothing to which one can state, if we correct this and that, we may not be perfect; but we will be that much closer to attaining what the religion says it possible to achieve.  

The hard-hitting truth of Christianity is that the hope for humanity is not that humanity has the answers, but rather, Christ IS the answer. To recognize Christ as the answer, we must first acknowledge wherein lies the problem.

You and I. We.
Sinners. In need of a Savior.

The truth isn't popular. As comedian, Brad Stine states... "the truth offends. That's it's job. It's how you know you don't have it."

Conversely however, comedian Jeff Allen, once expressed his gratitude, where in an honest moment, declared that "Christianity was the only religion that would have him," 

How profound. And what is so incredible about this relationship? It depends not us, but on Christ... who has already done what was necessary in order that the acknowledge of our state is all that is required of us to be reconciled to God.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that as they share these truths, missionaries would be able to continue the work of communicating and sharing the good news of the Gospel of Christ. Pray that hearts would be ready to receive and minds open to the truth of God's Word. May the voices be quited and the opinions and doubts cast aside; that the still small voice of the Holy Spirit bring clarity to the soul. Pray the convicting power of God reveal the lowly state of humanity; not to depress us, but that hope would arise, that God, at the beginning of time, provided a way for man to be redeemed from his fallen position.

May people come face to face with themselves,
Realizing that faith relies not on us, but on God.
Not on what we do, but upon what we confess.
That one day, all will confess,
Jesus Is Lord.

​- PNC

A post-modern society increasingly moving away from absolute truth, seeks to know what is going in the world, without biased commentary and perspective... with hearts set on separating fact from opinion and of late, separating the fakers from the fact-checkers (who've themselves, been exposed to be less than forthcoming as truth-tellers).

The daily irony is endless. The navigation of the conversation can be more confusing than a broken GPS unit stuck in "recalculation" mode.

I've been meaning to post this statement on one of my other blogs, so you'll hear (read: read) it here first.

It truly is tragic, that Gandhi allowed a flawed humanity, even those who declared the Christian faith, to interfere and ultimately stand in the way, of his own personal encounter with God through the person of Jesus Christ.

I thought about this again last night, in light of the words of Paul, the Apostle... "follow me, as I follow Christ."

Thanks, no doubt, to the advent and quick integration of social media, all of us, including leadership throughout all organizations have become more concerned with who is following them, than who they are following. It is symptomatic of the opening lines... a move away from truth, that creates problems defining fact versus opinion and lead to relying more on commentary than the courage of one's convictions.

It is not an easy road that leaders walk these days. The masses of critics are becoming to numerous to track.
Similarly, following leaders is increasingly difficult. The opposing views, the conversations that people navigate; the attempts to understand as well as being understood... all with an increasing expectation that one will set aside their biases, experiences, and even their faith in order to create an objective, factual and compassionate environment.

It's enough to make your head spin and simply wish yourself the ability to walk away and disengage. Sadly, many have. Godly people have stepped out of politics as a result. They have stepped away from the corporate marketplace. Burnout in ministry is on the rise... as is a society increasingly bothered by organized religion and it's views and beliefs. People of all kinds at many levels are stepping back from the church.

Pray, this #deaconThursday for church leadership. May they be strengthened in their daily walk with God; renewed by the Word and encouraged by the Holy Spirit. While the details of their responsibilities within church operations revolve around the engagement of believers, may they keep their eyes set on God. May God grant them the strength to stand by the courage of their convictions and bring revelation to their conversations and decisions processes. While critics will always step forward, and disagreements will unfold, pray the church would operate in a spirit of unity. In times of difficulty and things going awry, may their be a steadfastness about the team, as they remain committed to the plans and purposes God has called them to fulfill.

That the church would lead the way
As the follow God alone.
Let not criticism overcome conviction
Nor lies defeat the truth.
God grant favor to the efforts of those;
Whose hearts remain set on Him.
​For the glory of God.

Isn't the internet amazing?

In the past few days, the concept and terminology of critical thought has come to the forefront of discussion. And of course, a quick search, and sure enough... there is a foundation established for the study and advancement of it. Discussing its' meaning and purpose, its' usefulness and outcomes as it is implemented, what the process actually entails... it's certainly written as an attractive level of human achievement.

Not to dismiss its' value, parts of it almost sound utopian, especially when they begin to discuss critical societies. What happens to the world when the number of critical thinkers reaches a height, whereby society and culture changes? Hopefully combating the humanitarian flaws that ail us... greed and power, self-interest and gratification, the struggles of life might change for the better.

Granted, we are a flawed humanity, but what's interesting as I read all of this, was nothing about the soul.

Nothing.

Critical thought requires an open-mind, taking in philosophical, economical, intellectual, scientific perspective and analysis, not to mention morality... and it has to account for one's own experiences, and prejudices...

But pending more reading, I've yet to see it account for faith. One can express many beliefs, yet not discuss in what or whom they place their faith.

What's sad about all of this, is that we are presenting and suggesting a path towards the betterment of society that once again, suggests it can be accomplished without the help of Almighty God. What's worse, it suggests that man can improve his own life with the help of the Him in whose image we were created.

In discussing the thoughts of critical societies, the foundation quotes Leo Tolstoy:

"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself."

Yet man is finite. Thus, so is his ability to change unless changed from the very core of his being by the one who created him. If an infinite God does not change the sinful nature resident in the heart of all of humanity, then critical thought, no matter how noble will not nearly be enough to change the world in the ways people so desperately desire.

How fitting then, that we pray over this generation of young people and their leaders. On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that eyes would be opened, not to what can be achieved through critical thought, but through a critical change of heart. May God do the miraculous in this generation, a people that desires a better world. Pray they would see the revelation of Him who created it. Pray for the pastors of kids and teens; may God direct the paths and conversations... divinely positioning them to speak life and truth, full of love and compassion. May change come, not because of one's insight, or the words of men, but by the revelation of God's Word. Pray God would apply Biblical truth to this post-modern society, bringing clarity to a world full of confusion, despite a wealth of information.

Critical change, not from finite humanity
But from a sovereign deity.
That we would not overcome our flaws by thought and achievement,
Choosing instead to submit ourselves humbly to Almighty God.
To be used for His glory, in spite of  and despite for failures.
His plans and purpose fulfilled
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Blame always rises to the top of the leadership ladder, even in cases where the full truth and reasoning may not be known. In the case of a failure and or removal from the highest level, blame also quickly descends upon those who remain.

Leadership truly does require a thick skin.

It does not require perfection for nobody is.
It does not require full transparency, for we live in a time where it is more fun to highjack the truth with misleading titles and offering words that stand in the way of resolution than asking questions and working through all possible aspects in order to gain better understanding.

Not everyone is "in the room". We do not know, nor can we sometimes fully comprehend the information presented, the context and the history that factors in; as to why, how and where decisions are made and the impact that follows.

Furthermore, it doesn't help any matters that people arrive at places of criticism for some fairly far-fetched reasons, others very legit and well-founded. So the discussion is always an interesting one, provided both parties can hang in long enough to find common ground... or at least a point or place of understanding.

We've come to a place where we think everything needs to be shared, everything needs to be known and all reasoning explained. Life doesn't work like that. Relationships exist on several levels and not all can be intimate enough to be full access with nothing hidden from plain sight.

Leadership is a conviction for truth.
Leadership is a boldness to declare it.
Leadership is a compass for trust.

The first of the three can be the equivalent of an archeological dig.
The last of the three, easier to lose than to gain.
In the middle, resides the temptation to remain silent... which long term, helps nobody.

All the more reason, to pray, not just for leadership in general, but for pastors. For if we are concerned for the lives that hang in the balance as a society, how much more, our concern for lives who hang in the balance of eternity?

Thanks again, for joining me this #associatePastorTuesday, as we pray for associate pastors. Pray for a conviction for the truth. Pray a boldness to declare it and in love. Pray for wisdom in their relationships, that they would be built on trust. As we do live in a day of desired transparency, pray for wisdom and guidance, that leaders and pastors would know what to share, with whom and when; for relationships are dynamic with intricate moving pieces and salient details. May God help those who observe and criticize; may it be done so with compassion and understanding. May their be a foundation of understanding; rather than a platform that is quick to place blame and hurl insults.

May our lives glorify Christ
Even as decisions are made
While we may not understand, nor agree;
May we continue to trust... first and foremost,
The sovereign hand of God.
Not Himself removed from our presence,
But intimately involved in the affairs of man.
That His purposes might be accomplished
So all may know, He is God.

- PNC

I got to thinking last night about all the pastors and church leaders who lead and serve in other areas of ministry, outside of their local church. They may serve on boards or leadership positions in their communities or in the higher ranks of their denominations, at a district, state or national level. They serve on boards of other non-profit or para-church organizations.

There's an incredible amount of wisdom and knowledge from these amazing leaders.

As I reflected on this past week, and the conversations that have arisen on how the church should respond to issues abroad and how governments interact with each, there has been an overwhelming amount of perspectives and opinions offered... how to respond as a society, how to respond as a church and how those two come together in a way that glorifies and honors God.

The last part is increasingly difficult, as so much of society and government has sought to remove God from the conversation, yet now we "have" to do the Christian thing.

I say all of that to say, if the people have difficulty having the conversation and coming to places of understanding, how much more the disagreements that come to light through the interaction with leadership teams and people of influence; those who make the decisions and direct the conversations that precede them.

These are simple times of epic proportions in which we live. I really don't know how to describe how so many people are using Scripture to justify and advance their argument, even from those who aren't Christian, yet use the Christian foundation of a nation against the church for the stance they may take. This is nothing new, of course, but it seems to have surely risen to the forefront in recent days.

All the more, to pray for our pastors and church leaders!  

So, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for senior pastors who hold places of influence and leadership outside of their church. In the conversations and meetings they have, may God impart wisdom into their hearts and minds. Pray God would guide their paths and direct the conversations and the decisions that result. While they may never have 100% support or everyone in agreement, pray that their convictions would be clear and grounded in a consistent and accurate understanding of Scripture. Pray for a covering of grace when times of dispute and disagreement arise; that their positions would not be used negatively, but for the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

Strength from the Hand of God
Direction from His Word
Intentional in our walk with Him
For we wrestle not against flesh and blood
But against principalities and powers and rulers of darkness.
Against spiritual wickedness in high places.
God, we look and reply and upon you anew and afresh.
For your glory.

- 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

While working on a couple of things online Thursday night, while browsing a few social media newsfeeds, I come across a notification from a networking site for business, informing me of my brothers status update, which was of a job promotion! 

Not surprised, but unexpected, I thought I had missed something. So I texted him.

I knew changes were in the works, for the past 6 or 8 months, with his responsibilities and everything, but our conversations had been about the job, so when I saw the title...

At any rate, he replies with the title being official since January 1; he was just finally getting around to updating his professional online profile. Offering my congratulations, he replies with what I thought I remembered being the game plan... "it's the same thing I've been doing for 6 months or so, but now it's official."

Fast forward a few hours to Friday morning. I'm thinking about the post I had written before running off to work. In particular, thinking about the balance between Christians verbally giving witness to the work of Christ in their life and that of allowing the change in our heart speak to how we live differently from the world. It wasn't but a second or two that the connection was made.

As the church engages community this last Saturday of January, how many have been turned off to the Gospel because they were quick to verbalize their faith, but then consistently live life contradictory to what people perceive as Christian?

Keep in mind, I'm not perfect, nor do I act it... sadly, I have my days where someone might question my profession of faith. So, I'm not saying one should be the perfect Christian before sharing their testimony... for surely, I am not.

But consider these two scenarios.

I've listened to you tell me that you are a Christian for the past year (or much longer), and I yet you still... (whatever seems a clear conflict of behavior and one's faith). I'm not gonna call one thing out, but you've seen something in someone and had this question. How did the conversation go? Did they justify their behavior? 

Conversely...

I've noticed a change in your life over the past few months and I can tell their is clearly something different in how you live your life. We haven't talked about it, but I see it. 

This is the difference between the one who holds the title and people wonder why they have it versus people that do the work and aren't surprised when the title comes.

Thus, as we impact and converse with those around us, let us not be known Christian in name only. But strive to live a life that glorifies God; that by the outflow of our heart, they will know those who are His.

The title is simply a word and a word is worthless if not built on a strong foundation.

For in any arena or event of life, one gets the title because of their performance, not in hopes of it. Fortunately God doesn't work like this, when we accept His gift of salvation... there is an element of grace in it all, yet at the same time, the expectation is present... did we fulfill the duties of the position we've held. 

Pray this #communitySaturday that God would help us live this life He has called us; for surely we are not perfect; yet we are called to reflect Christ to a lost and dying world. May their be a consistency about our lives. Pray our words and our deeds would both point to Christ in all that we say and do. Pray God help us in our conversations, for indeed I've struggled to express the balance of a living and active faith just in this post... how much more with those unfamiliar with Christianity or Biblical principles. Yet everyone has an expectation of how a Christian should live.

Saved by grace.
Sanctified by the Word
Justified by faith in Christ alone.
Imperfect people reflecting a perfect Savior.
Christianity is indeed a process, a balancing act and an irony.
The Sovereignty of God... to use the foolish things to confound the wise
Through His infinite wisdom, unending grace and abundant love.
For His glory and the cause of Jesus Christ.

 - PNC

We've all seen the signs as we've travelled down roads of all kinds...

"Fill dirt wanted"

Something clicked as I passed another one of these yesterday, that while yes, "fill dirt" does serve a purpose, my initial reaction, was that nobody really likes to be considered as "filler". Organizationally-speaking, nobody really gets excited about being there, just for the sake of being there. Whether it be simply to say that a position is filled, or to have the appearance that there are more people and more activity than what is actually going on, it really is a disservice to the organization and the person to simply be occupying a space or a position.

It's almost (or so it seems) that an organization doesn't have an accurate assessment is what is needed, who should be where, what they should be doing... with a defined sense of purpose, for the position and the person who holds it. In any environment, this is troubling and potentially disastrous... all the more, for ministries and churches who are often struggling with budgetary issues and are in need of capable people.

There's been huge move of understanding, probably due in part to the book, "Unqualified", that God doesn't call the qualified, but qualifies the called. While this is very true, that we shouldn't look at ourselves and think God can't use anybody to accomplish His work, we also shouldn't misunderstand this line to mean that the church should simply hire any one to do a job, that they wouldn't stand a chance of getting elsewhere in the marketplace. That's a "filler" mentality.

But like anything, it is a balance... a delicate one, at that.

So... would you pray with me, this #deaconThursday, that pastors and church leaders would be granted wisdom and clarity as they lead staff and volunteers. May God help them place and utilize those who are willing to serve, yes; but also to locate those who have skills and abilities that God has given for the purpose of helping the church be more effective and efficient in their ministry efforts. Across the board, may their be a renewed sense of purpose and value; that one is not simply taking up space in their organization. If they truly are, may there be a grace over the ensuing conversation; that God would give direction as to how such situations should be resolved.

May the church not stand in it's own way
Through inaccurate assessments and evaluations of their organization.
God sovereignly place whom you will use
For the effective ministry of the Gospel of Christ
To be used to the fullest for the glory of God.

- PNC

"I've sinned. I've committed many sins." - Pres. Josiah Bartlet, The West Wing

Regardless of our place in this world. our socio-economic status, political bents and what number rung on the corporate ladder we currently find ourselves, there is one common thread that runs through each of our lives.

One problem.
One solution.
Two responses.

If all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God and Christ is the only Way whereby man can be saved, then one must reconcile in their spirit, whether they will accept or reject Christ as a means of being reconciled unto God. Often, rejection isn't rejection so much as it is denial.

We've convinced ourselves somehow that being in the wrong is not the same as being in sin. 

There's another scene in, in another episode from this political show, where President Barlet is having a conversation with his press secretary. They were going to do a broadcast to students, discussing a NASA program that launch. Then they had problems with the satellite in communicating/retrieving the inforation it was supposed to collect.

In the course of the discussion, they talk about the cancelling doing the broadcast with the students. The press secretary advises to proceed in favor of the broadcast... and why?

Because some kids won't step to the blackboard for fear of getting "it" wrong. To which the press secretary recommends using it as an opportunity to say to students, "you think you get it wrong? You should come see how the big kids do it"

I relay all of that, to say, we are truly doing ourselves and future generations a disservice when we don't effectively communicate the fallen state of humanity, of our sin, of our need for a Savior and that the answer is only found in the person of Jesus Christ whereby we can come into right relationship with God our Creator.

We fail to acknowledge our sin; indeed that we have committed many. Instead we justify, dismiss it, deny our need for Christ and advise, albeit ill, that one should do what "feels right" for them as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else.
​
If love speaks the truth, than that lie that we tell ourselves and our kids borders on hatred. 

Sadly, we are so deep into the lie, that now, is it not only hard to see the truth, let alone accept, it's hard to receive it for what it is; an act of love. For healing and restoration can begin if we don't get down to the core issue of what needs to be restored.

So, thanks for the extra couple minutes to lay that out... and pray with me this #youthPastorWednesday, for pastors of this current generation and upcoming generation of kids and teens. May they not be afraid to speak the truth of man's spiritual state and what the life of Christ means for our lives. Pray the eye-scales of deceit would come off; for those who have believed the lie regarding sin and whether man is "good enough" or simply good because we aren't as bad as our neighbor. May the cycle be broken, of many ways to God; for there is but only One name under Heaven whereby man can be saved. Pray the truth of God's Word would be revealed to the minds of humanity, illuminating the depth of our hearts; that no matter the nature and number of our sin, all have fallen short of God's glory; whether in positioned in high places or lowly streets, every leader and every follower.

One day we all stand before Christ.
Asked how we have decided to live.
May it be said of many,
"You have chosen wisely".
That we not wait to enter in to the presence of God
But come to Him through repentance, while time is still available.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I went to bed last night with a mild headache that caused me to lay in bed awake for longer than what is normal, at least recently. I'm not sure the cause... hopefully, not because the one line pastor mentioned yesterday morning that I thought "that's cool, that should be my launch point for Monday's post" and then couldn't remember what it was; however, I foolishly hoped that simply laying down would help speed up its exit.

Well, I woke up this morning and sure enough, the headache still lingers. And before we go any further, yes, Dad, I'm taking something before I leave for work. That said, I know the line had something to do with not wanting to go to work, which we've all felt.

Most senior pastors take Monday off anyway and with good reason, it's exhausting. So technically, this is a post for not wanting to go back to work on Tuesday Regardless, we all have our days of wanting to stay under the covers and not be up and around, whether it mean 4:30am or 7am.

I remember the church my wife and I started attending weeks after we were married. They had just recently moved to a new campus and the congregation was larger than the sanctuary that existed (so much so, that plans for a new sanctuary were imminent, if not already in the works at the time of purchase) The solution?

Three Sunday services. Yes, three. And all of them were packed, the third, not always quite standing room only, but pretty close, often enough. It was crazy. especially with everybody who filled in during the transition time. The pastor, who has since planted, what is now their third, ground-up church, remains a high-energy, high-impact man of God; but I used to watch and wonder in some amazement. Now churches run two Saturday night services, and two or three more on Sunday... it's enough to wipe out you out just thinking about it.

*which I'm trying not to do, because of the headache. (insert smile emoji)

On that note, let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors who are having their "don't want to go to work" moments. Whether they be the normal course of life instances or they are on the verge of feeling burnt out, may God strengthen every fiber of their being. In heart, body, mind and soul, may God rejuvenate energy levels and infuse them with a fresh empowering of the Holy Spirit. As they go about their meetings, tasks, and sermon preps, may their be a grace over their actions and engagements. May God grant to them a wisdom and an ease to handle whatever lies before them that demands their attention. Pray they not be burdened down by the past, whether it be left over from last year or circumstances that have already proven difficult in the first few weeks of 2017... may they commit it all to the Lord anew.

To cast their cares upon Jesus
That He may give them rest,
Exchanging burdens and yokes with Christ
That they may impact the kingdom of Heaven with greater ambition,
Greater fervency, greater faithfulness and greater passion.
For the advancement of the Gospel
For the glory of God.

- 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 truly is incredible to watch and witness how communities operate.

Businesses come and go, as well as other organizations and the people who found them, build them and move on to other endeavors. Reputations are established and destroyed based on doing great things right and wrong things that result in great setbacks.

Then come the times of transition, as we've prayed over on previous occasions.

In Washington, there will now be a period of wait and see, until the first reports come out that things are well or don't worry, they haven't improved.

Similarly, the same things happen in towns everywhere, when new ownership and management come in with the intent to revitalize a store or a restaurant that for whatever reason was in jeopardy.

Change in reputations and repute take time... although it can be expedited. Although, come to think of it, thanks to social media, the change from to good to bad is often expedited even more quickly now, rather than turning the negative around for the good.

Churches are no exception. They have reputations just like any other organization. Some known for incredibly positive impacts, others for, well just about anything. And a change in the pastorate and leadership for a church that was struggling and in trouble can bring churches back to places of influence and impact for the kingdom of God.

Yet, it starts, like anything else, with the people. How we share are thoughts, opinions and interactions we people influences if they check out the newest coffee shop or clothing boutique in town. Just as much, how Christians discuss their church, pastors and matters of faith influences whether people check out a church or never to come close to a campus ever again.

So, would you join me once again, whether for the first time or the six hundred and first, on this #communitySaturday. Pray for churches and congregations whose reputations in  the community are less than positive. May God work in the hearts and lives of pastors and parishioners, for the impact a church makes on its community starts with the community of believers, not the community in need of God. Pray God would grant wisdom and direction as to the what, when, where and how changes, if any need to be made. For relationships and connections that need to be made with area leaders and influencers, may God grant favor in their conversations and exchanges. Pray God's strength for tough decisions, for even as we've witnessed this past week, not everyone will agree with the change in direction. May the truth of God prevail; though difficult to hear, it works best in the long run. May the eye-scales of deception be removed and the light of the Son of God reach into the depths of the souls of humanity.

That all may see and know
The goodness and greatness of God.
To experience firsthand the love of Christ.
Not because of the greatness of a church,
But the grace of God on a people who seeks to reach the lost
With the Gospel of Christ at any cost.

- PNC 

I spent a fair amount of time yesterday, thinking about organizational development, and in particular, how companies and operations handle times of struggle and difficulty. 

In the marketplace, there is a great niche of people, known as "turnaround consultants", people who are brought in for the purpose of making the tough decisions and bringing a company back from the brink on dysfunction and perhaps even, the inevitable going under.

Often times, they will have experience in a particular field for which they are known, but when a system or organization is broken, the purpose of bringing an outside perspective is to have someone who can bring an unbiased look at what is taking place and apply a rational and logical filter as to what is working and what is not, and how things should be working as it makes sense to that company. The principles and practices carry over, across many platforms... there often isn't room for, "well that won't work for us."

Turning around churches, isn't really all that different. At least to a degree. The difficulty for churches, is that there is an element in which churches won't be identical, in their purpose and ministry and culture for the "market" they are trying to reach. The spiritual influence and super-natural dynamic of a ministry must be taken in to account when a church's operations are analyzed and assessed for areas of improvement and recovery.

It's very easy to say "we need to do this because other churches are doing it and it works for them and looks awesome". They may not be what God has in store for a particular church. So, indeed, the conversation to "turnaround" a church is different.

These times of change and the process of sorting things out and implementing change are by no means easy, nor should they be taken lightly. But obviously, many churches struggle and are in trouble operational, just as much as companies who find themselves losing importance and relevance in a crowded marketplace.

Communities need their churches. They need the church to be healthy as much as the church wants to impact their community back to health, spiritual and otherwise.

Pray, this #deaconThursday for churches struggling... to keep the doors open, to minster effectively, to work efficiently; to accomplish the plans and purposes God has called them to fulfill. May God bring insight and clarity as to what and where changes need to be made; may He grant courage and boldness to make the hard choices and have the difficult conversations that may be necessary to turn things around. Pray for wisdom and unity; that the changes that need to be made, would not be done so out of comparison or trends, but because of a true leading and prompting that it will increase and improve their ministry and the impact the church has on its congregation and community. May they seek the face of God first and foremost, not in fear of what is going wrong, but confident in the handiwork of God to use them mightily for the cause of Jesus Christ.

From good to great
From losing the battle to gaining victory
Operating with purpose and anointing
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the gospel.

- PNC

"My friend posted a sermon clip yesterday morning before church, of Jentezen Franklin preaching a powerful message... an incredible illustration of the pizza box.

Essentially, what happens in our lives is or should  be in accordance with God's will and purposes, and yet, in our finite perspectives we get caught up in the packaging. The power and fulfillment of God's purposes being carried out in and through are lives (what's in the box) is what is of value.

Yet, we are thrown off because we are focused on the 39 cent box not looking how we think it should.
​
Of course, moments later, God confirmed this word... as I sat in service and Pastor preaches on God's Will for 2017. In the closing statements of his sermon, he describes the 4 components of God's will.

We often spend an overwhelmingly significant amount of time on the "what", which certainly is a critical, if not the primary piece of the puzzle. But we miss out so much because we don't consider nearly as important, the "when", the "where" and the "way".

We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in God's timing, then we are out of His will and trouble awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in the place God has for us, then difficulty potentially awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if we go about it the wrong way, we open the door for a struggle.

If it's easy for you and I to be thrown off, distracted and confused by the 39 cent box that God's Will comes delivered in, how much more for pastors and church leaders as they daily do the work of the Lord for the advancement of the gospel of Christ?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors seeking the face of God and His will for their lives and their ministries. May God grant to them revelation, not only for what they are to be doing, but the when, where and the way to accomplish it. Pray they would not be detoured or distracted my the cosmetics of how God's will looks, but that they would remain set and steadfast to being open to be used by God as he sees fit. Though the struggle is real, may the be strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; that a grace would cover them for the times they have gotten it wrong, because they didn't properly consider the timing, location and direction of the "what" God had in store for them. Pray a clarity, as they go about their day... a break-through, whereby God might accomplish the miraculous, in a new and powerful way.

For the value of God's will is the message He speaks,
Not in the vessel He uses to deliver it.
May our will be set aside,
That God may perform His good and perfect work.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
All glory and honor to God.

- 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

There's a reason the concept of divide and conquer works.

It makes the battle easier to manage.

Depending on which side of the battle you are on, this may seem like your days are numbered, but the strategy is effective.

We have a saying in our church... the larger we get, the smaller we need to get. It's usually in reference to our LifeGroups, inspired by Acts 2:42 and it sums up the intentionality we must take to ensure nobody gets lost in the ministry... thtat we stay connected rather than feeling unneeded or unwanted

Speaking of unneeded, one is always needed in the body of Christ.

The "larger/smaller"  concept accurately portrays the importance of workload and delegation; for any organization, but especially the church. After a conversation with a good friend yesterday, it dawned on me...

The trouble with reusing the same staples all the time, is that they eventually break. So while, operationally, it's good that you always have a select group of people who can be relied upon to help get things done or serve in ministry; if the team that carries the workload is never growing and interchanging, then the people who serve as staples are that much closer to breaking and burn-out.

Friends, this should not be so.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for churches and staff whose people and volunteers are running low on energy, as they continue to give and pour themselves out for the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged in the good work they have set out to do and fill. May they be rejuevenuated, even this hour as they go about their day, that God work the miraculous in their lives; whatever may be going on outside the four-walls of the church. Pray for wisdom and discernment, as churches navigate operational challenges and make decisions regarding ministry assignments and tasks. Pray for an increase in service and a growth in the body of Christ; not only in numbers but in maturity... that the church moves forward in prayer, as well as when people step up and become more involved.

That we may live to serve.
God. Others.
For the encouragement of the church.
For the glory of God.
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

We  have all witnessed first hand, whether in our own lives or in the lives of pastors  or other leaders around us, the difficulty that comes with major transistions and times of change. And rightly so. These can be life-changing moments; often accompanied by upheaval and unrest, even if there is an element of excitement should the change be a welcome or positive one in nature.

For all the other moments, perhaps even under the radar, less drastic changes in one's areas of responsibility can be difficult in their own right. Whether it's an expansion of one's oversight, that brings about a level of nervousness and anxiety as to whether they will do well or a reduction of the same, that perhaps brings a realization that they were spread to thin and not doing the job as well as they should... these times raise many questions and concerns. Thought-processes traverse a complex course of possibilities when the questions and concerns are internal; multiple times over if they are public.

You are feeling overwhelmed just thinking about such moments, right?

Then there are those, even in ministry, experiencing such moments.

Fortunately, God's sovereign Hand is not out of reach. He remains close; with the love, support and guidance that is more than capable to bring people through both the most drastic and least significant periods of change in their lives. Our lives and our response to life should testify; that He is "more than" we could ever hope to say.

So, pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors experiencing portfolio changes. Perhaps they are not in major times of transistion in ministry, such as changing churches or moving to missions, but even internal changes within a church can be difficult. Pray a continued strength and reliance upon the Lord; for insight and wisdom, encouragement and confidence. May these moments be times of reflection and growth; whether they include new challenges or an opportunity to regroup and rebuild. May the attacks of the enemy be kept a bay; for he is a defeated foe. May what was meant to destroy and derail pastors only serve to testify of the goodness and glory of God.

For in times of uncertainty, He is certain.
For times of instability, He is stable.
For times of unrest, He is peace.
In darkness, He is light
For we are not unknown to Him,
But intimately known by our Creator.

- PNC

"Fellas, we've got confusion in here." 

A statement made in frustration, by the President, on my favorite tv political drama (that thankful lives on thanks Netflix) as he sits at the head of the table in the situation room. Advisors from multiple agencies are commenting and discussing options and ramifications and because of a number of other factors surrounding the situation, the President quickly realizes he can't keep the conversation and the advice straight.

Not wanting to make a decision on unclear advice, he halts the room with the aforementioned declaration.

I thought about how quickly and often such situations arise in our lives; we desire clarity of purpose and extended sight lines of the path we travel... particular when it comes to matters of faith and what, where and who God would have us to embark.

Seeking the face of God, and first at that, should be priority one as we go about our lives.

Conversly... that process, that conversation... those spiritual moments and trials of our faith go smoother in the long run, if we can dismiss and disregard the voices and advice in our lives that cause tension, stress, restlessness and incredible levels of tiredness accopanied by a defeated perspective.

Even for pastors... it might not be the case that they are operating with a diminished sense of purpose and calling; but that so many external factors are calling for their attention, that it is causing delays in hearing from God.

Prolonged delays bring on the same affects as conflicting voices and advice in our life. The stress, restlessness and energy loss... confusion has a way of aging the body, mind, soul and spirit in incredibly quick fashion.

Burnout lurks around the corner.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would grant wisdom, not only in hearing the voice and will of God in their lives, but to know and understand who and what should be speaking into their lives and ministries. May God guard their hearts and minds as pastors stay focused on Him. Pray a release of tension, stress and restlessness and a spirit of refreshing and rejuvenation. May they be encouraged and strenghthened, anew and afresh....that was has them discouraged and frustrated would pass... and quickly. Pray today would be a defining moment; a dawning of a new day for their ministry.

Clarity... by the hand of God.
Clarity... by the dimssal of confusion.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear
But of love, joy and a sound mind.
For the glory of God and 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

Moments of forgetfulness are often painful and frustrating.

We forget things of great importance and cherished value, usually at times that are inconvenient.

Thus, these moments rob of joy and energy... costing us precious time from our day and dollars from our financial footing. We struggle to remember.

Conversely, we often remember the things we should forget. 

Our failures. Our regrets. Our mistakes. Our sins.

Fortunately, in the eyes of God, for the believer, He sees grace. He sees the blood of Christ.
Our sins are cast into the sea of forgetfulness.

We hold things against ourselves, that God does not... which can interfere with our perspective and approach to life; oten at times when it should not be allowed to do so.

When such moments interfere with minnistry and the advancement of the work of Christ through us in the impact we are trying to make for the glory of God, it can seem that things are simply being made worse.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for those in church leadership and administration, who are under spiritual attack. May they be strengthened and encouraged, that their identity is in Christ and not in the moments of weakness, mistakes and sins. Though we may fail others and ourselves, may church operatives be reminded that God never fails us, leaves us or forsakes us. May the blood of Christ wash over us anew and minds renewed afresh by the word of God. May the things which attempt to interfere with ministry be diminished and cast aside; that God in His gace and mercy would favor the efforts of those who seek to serve and minister the gospel of Christ to a world and community in desparate need of Him.

For the His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

​- PNC