Today is primary election day in some states. Oh the joys of politics and a Constitutional Republic.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, I can't help by reminded that life is real and so are the people in it. As such, it's impossible to please everyone. On further thought, I'm not sure who struggles with this more; the politician or the pastor? For as much as people criticize those who hold both of these positions, you would think that there would be a rush for the critics to step underneath the lights of that criticism. But alas, they do not... and neither do I, for that matter.

Furthermore, it doesn't help that it is all too easy to get caught up in the personalities of the people rather than the power of the policies. People have become more concerned about preserving their career rather than the Constitution and likewise, pastors to preserve the pulpit, rather than preach the power of the Cross.

A man in our church ran for office. And while he is incredibly bummed regarding the outcome, those who are attempting to encourage him aren't doing so well. Or they are and he isn't having it.

This is gonna be a short post and it is what it; but I'll share here what I posted elsewhere in that conversation...

"Don't believe the perceived responses of people whom you have projected your expectations."

In other words, it's easy to think people feel or think about things or ourselves in a particular way, often based on little to nil evidence, then we believe what we have "projected" as if they actually had mounting and substance evidence to justify it all.

This does not help; both in terms of self-confidence, nor in the confidence of those we serve or attempt to serve.
What does help... remain faithful, to the work and purpose for which you've been called.

For the pastor. For the politician. For the ones in the pew.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for pastors that are struggling with critics and circumstance in which relationships and perception seems to be causing stress and difficulty. May God give them wisdom in navigating such trouble times. Pray for a peace about their spirit and a quiet confidence in the work of God within their lives. Pray God would give them wisdom in the days to come; to find health and balance in their relationships and live true to the ministry in which God has placed them to serve and serve faithfully.

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

- PNC

It's difficult to remember that which you haven't committed to memory.

This simply, profound truth is a courtesy summation of a point in John McArthur's sermon that I heard early this morning, in which He was talking about the promises that Christ gave before His ascension regarding the work and help of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

It's an amazing consideration... the lengths to which God went to restore relationship with His creation. As if Christ' death wasn't enough, He sent help; knowing full well we would need it. However, despite our desperate need for the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives, that doesn't negate our best efforts to attempt to get by and live without Him.

We attempt to get by on our own goodness, efforts, works and words. We focus on the quality of our relationships with others, while neglecting one with God. We have everything else in our hand and in front of our face than that which is necessary for spiritual growth, maturity and longevity.

How do I know this? I have a mirror... that I can envision without actually getting up and walking into the room where the physical mirror exists. Why do I know more quotes from my favorite show or song, rather than my favorite book and more importantly, God's book? Because I'm human.

And because you can't remember what's not already in your memory banks. So, I ask, the same question I'm asking myself.
What am I committing to memory?
What am I leading my kids to learn and remember?
In the battles and struggles that pastors face, what are they remembering and standing upon?
As they lead their own homes and families? As they help me lead mine? As they help lead my friends and families?

So, pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would draw all of us, but especially the pastors of this up and coming generation, that they would be people of the Word to an ever greater degree than ever. May they stand on the promises of God more than ever before; because they know and even more aware than they have ever been. Pray the battles and stresses of life would not cause them to disengage; but draw in closer, to the presence of God and the truths of His Word. Indeed, pray that the Holy Spirit would be their comfort and their guide. May they be led not only into all truth, but walk in the fullness of the promises of God.

Only by His grace.
And all for His glory.
To know Him
And by known by Him.
In all truth; for all time.

- PNC

Does anybody truly love what they do? Every single aspect of their job? What about their vocation? The calling that is upon their life? "Every single aspect" might be a little bit of a stretch, for surely everyone has that "one" task or responsibility on their list that they would rather not deal with if at all possible.

And even operating in divine calling that God has placed upon an individual, requires a stepping out into faith and obedience that surely contains an element that, if it weren't for the calling, they would have no partaking in it.

My point is, that there will always be something in the process and journey of our day and responsibility that we will be less than thrilled to be doing. Yet there should be an overall purpose and point in the midst of it, that says "this is why I love what I do."

Yet, even within ministry, this element and perspective gets lost and discarded and as a result, burnout takes its' place.

There is no longer a joy and a passion; a thrill in the work and the calling. If the appeal is gone; then so is the motivation to continue. Such is the time that we usually begin to check out and lose hope, which is dangerous territory for church leadership and those in the pastorate.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not lose the love, joy and thrill of the calling that has been placed upon them. Pray that God would rekindle the spark within them and fan the flame. May burnout be removed and a sense of purpose and meaning restored; that their work is of the utmost of importance for eternity; even in the elements and responsibilities that are undesirable, but necessary. Pray that God would strengthen and fill them anew and afresh; that their efforts would not be done in vain nor begrudgingly.

Working as unto the Lord
May His light and grace shine upon them
For His glory
And the cause of Jesus 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

Thomas Edison, in his seemingly unquenchable ability to persevere, gave us an incredibly profound perspective.

"I didn't fail. I found 10,000 ways that didn't work."

There's now 3 complete years worth of daily prayers in the archives, so my apologies that I don't recall exactly how long ago I wrote a post regarding best practices, but for whatever reason, I was considering how that terminology and principle came into being.

Obviously, there is wisdom and success in duplicating the activities and procedures that have work elsewhere and by and large, it works. Not always, as markets are different, along with companies and organizations and the culture they are built on.

Having said that, it's kind of amazing how often people and organizations repeatedly attempt to try and implement processes and strategies that others before them have done. It's a continual engagement, as if every generation has a conversation that involves, "I tried that before and it doesn't work. This way is better."

Best practices is doing the better way in the most effective and efficient way possible. It's been perfected, analyzed and refined some more. But that doesn't mean that someone won't come along with a more epic (or tragic) way of going about a situation or solving a problem and create a bigger mess than what was before them when they started.

He who wants to become wise, listens and learns.
He wants to learn, seeks those who know.
Those who know, most likely know from having done.
And doing, as Edison will attest, is quite an effective teacher.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that churches would not duplicate the problems and processes of previous churches and organizations in their effort to accomplish goals and achieve ministry success. Pray for camaraderie among church leaders, pastors and staff; that while they have their hands full with their own operations and ministries, that they would find time to invest in the leadership of other churches and ministries as well. As companies have in interest in what happens within their industry, so to does the church have a vested interest in what happens within Christendom-at-large. May God help leadership to be engaged and make a greater impact by teaching and training others, that 10,000 more ways that don't work would be discovered, but what does work and work well would be replicated.

For the benefit of the advance of the kingdom of God
Wise stewards of our resources, knowledge and time
For His glory.

- PNC

Have you noticed the conversation changes when among leaders?

It sounds different (or at least it should). The nature of the conversation takes on a different form. The dynamics of the conversation work on a whole other level. If you are in a leadership role, you've experienced this. In fact, if you aren't, you've noticed a different dynamic when you engage leadership.

Your approach to them changes.
How you handle yourself in their presence changes.
Your expectations regarding what you hope will come from the interaction... change.

Words matter.

Consider how you speak about frustrating circumstances in your life... in your workplace, on the home-front. Words are the result of an attitude and the change when leadership is engaged, because we recognize whose company we are in! Yet for as much as we can forget that whoever is in our presence is valuable, so too can leadership drop the ball and possess the wrong attitude and correspondingly, communicate the wrong statement.

So, the question remains for us all of us, but especially the leadership...
... are we conversation changers for the better or because we are bitter?

Let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not succumb to the frustration and angst of the circumstances and challenges they face. Pray that God would give them wisdom and discernment in navigating the matters that are brought before them. Pray that the conversation would change, because they are in the room. While we all face difficult moments, pray such times would neither detour nor derail their attitudes, and as a result, their speech in response to the problem(s) at hand. In all things, may God be glorified, as they seek and trust Him to bring about good, in moments were good is seemingly hiding from our finite vision.

That we may see with God's eyes,
And respond to life with His heart.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

We had a powerful discussion this morning during the Men's Breakfast at church. Our round-table style, cafe-conversation involved a brief hermeneutics exercise on the book of Philemon. It's basically, a who, what and why analysis of the book, as well as the theme and main points of what the author is trying to convey, followed by a take-away of how the content can be applied to our lives today.

So what's up with Philemon?

Well, it is #communitySaturday, so in a word...

COMMUNITY.

We know community isn't perfect. But Philemon is a lesson in what community could and should be. A man betrayed is advised to accept his betrayer, after the betrayer not only comes to Christ, but serves an important role in the ministry. Paul advises Philemon to essentially do the right thing, by not holding the past against this man, and if he is unable to forgive, he should hold it against Paul.

It's a powerful picture of a man transformed by Christ. (the betrayer)
It's a amazing picture of a man reflecting Christ. (Paul)
It's a dynamic picture of a man encouraged to be more like Christ. (Philemon)

Such circumstances are as difficult in today's day and time as they were for Philemon's church. We want people to be transformed by Christ. We pray to that end. We converse with them to that end. But if we've been wronged by anyone, even if they were a part of the church community when the wrong occurred, we have a hard time accepting people as brother's and sister's in Christ.

If you haven't dealt with this problem personally, you know someone who has.
If you haven't yet, I pray that you don't ever; but then again, everyone is human. Even Christians.

We all hope we reflect Christ, yet we all struggle when we are encouraged to further reflect Christ. What does that tell you?

Pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us be the community that reflects the person and character of Christ to a community and world desperately in need of Him. In this complex society and system of laws, pray that would be people who would pray for lives to be tranformed and may we live as though we ourselves, have been truly transformed. Pray that our church leadership would set the example of Christ, as Paul set for Philemon and his community. May we not get hung up on the past and the wrong, as troubling, problematic and unbelievable as it actually exists; but place our trust in God along and the power of the Cross of Jesus Christ.

For He is able to exceedingly above and beyond
That which we could ask or imagine.
Even through the power of forgiveness, healing and restoration.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Four years. Fourteen Years. Forty-nine years.

We commit to a decision.
We commit to a person.
We commit to a process.
We commit to a life.

And life has its' ups and downs, twists and turns; moments that make you pause in gratitude and others that come to halt and cause you to question.

All sorts of questions...
... is it worth it?
... am I doing the right thing?
... am I in the right place? at the right time?
.. (you finish your list)

Such moments seem to come waves with a rhythm and at nearly every rung of the ladder of roles and responsibilities.  The days you think that you perhaps you are "done" are combated with dreams and visions of what could be accomplished if you pressed in and pressed on; forging ahead as you continue to build upon the experience and wisdom that has brought you this far.

Don't let the pending burnout and the build-up of frustration prevent you from the calling and anointing that God has graced you with thus far. Yes, there are seasons of change, but there's a difference between God changing seasons and people abandoning ship.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for those within church leadership who have either quickly reached a place of great difficulty or have built a level of longevity to where they feel they can no longer continue. Pray that God would strengthen them and quicken them, body, soul, mind and spirit. Pray that God would give them wisdom in the decisions they face and the challenges they are working to overcome. May the storm not overtake them, but that they would continue to place their trust in Him and persevere through the process.

May life neither discourage them,
Nor the enemy defeat them;
But that they would live victorious
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Mom's advice from thirty-something years ago hasn't changed. You can't please everyone. Certainly, not as often as we hope. Unless, there is a level of understanding and commit to each other that exceeds most other relationships.

Even though, life is full of disappointments.

We let people done, all day, every day... in circumstances that are well beyond our control as often as they are within our control. And even when you find a balance, of doing your best, moving your fast, applying wisdom and experience and proper context... you can get "everything" right, as it depends on you and still manage to get something "wrong" in the eyes of the one on the other side of the table.

I fear entitlement has overstepped it's bounds in relationships of all kinds.

Spouses expect more than can be given, even when the other spouse feels they are already given their "all".
Bosses expect or demand more than is reasonable; and for many of us, more than what they are willing to compensate their employees to include in their responsibilities.
Kids expect the world, often more than we can give them, as much as we would love to do and give more.
Business clients somehow manage to combine the effort and emotion of all the previous three multiplied a couple of times over.

The struggle is real... and once again, church and ministry, not immune.

The real frustration however, lies in the disappointment that we feel internally. All the external stuff we can dismiss, sometimes with relative ease. Other times, it does feel as though as competitor greater, and stronger than we stands over us with one foot upon our back.

At some point and time we've all been there. And even in writing this, I'm dreading the thought of associate pastors who are living in this state of existence. We understand when it happens in the workplace and with clients; it's scary when it happens from the person behind the pulpit or from the people in the pew... with expectations that we simply can 't gain victory over, in any way, shape or form.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for pastors whose life is this frustrating reality. Pray that God would give them wisdom, in handling difficult people with challenging expectations; in whatever role those people play and however the expectations manifest themselves. May their be a grace about their lives as though go about their work and ministry. Pray for strength to endure, especially for the days when set-backs seem to dis-count and discredit whatever positive gains they may have made. Pray for an inner peace to be restored; even that which has been lost and stolen long ago. May the joy of the Lord return and be their strength, for every arena, role and relationship of their lives.

That whatever work is done,
Be done as unto the Lord
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Perhaps something clicked between yesterday and this morning, but it wasn't too far into the day when I started reflecting on some of the incredible life stories of recent pastors whose ministries and leadership I have enjoyed in recent years. The truly epic journeys that some of these men and women have endured, if not them, personally, their parents or grandparents whose lives got a hold of revolutionized.

A pastor with a grandfather who, after God called him into full-time ministry paid off his old gambling debts.
A pastor who had a biker for a father and a bar-maid for a mother... and yet God changed future generations.
A pastor, who at one time nearly stood at the edge of a wayward life... but God rewrote his future.

It's an incredibly powerful testimony to have such a conversion experience in the life of a pastor or ministry leader. And while it can be disconcerting to those who don't have such a powerhouse story; the legacy that begins with such stories is amazing.

It's amazing to watch it unfold in the generations that follow.
It's also a little scary, as we have watched numerous times, one generation witness a dramatic impact in their ministry and then the next generation somehow, somewhere along the line, dropped the torch. And the church suffers. Maybe not immediately, Maybe not entirely. But eventually.

As pastor has mentioned many times, every generation needs it's own revelation of God. For one generation's revelation is the next generation's religion. And that is when the legacy of ministry is placed into jeopardy.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors, especially those who do have an incredible testimony behind their ministries. Pray for their families and the generations that follow them; may the legacy be protected, not for their name sake, but for the sake of eternity. Pray that God would guard their homes and children; that they would not have to face and overcome the challenges and demons that previous generations battled. May generational curses be broken and generational promises established and fulfilled. Pray the impact of one's ministry would be increased by the generations that follow because of their own revelation of God, rather than hindered by allowing to become a religious exercise.

For God did not grant freedom,
That we would return to enslavement.
Victorious for the cause of Jesus Christ
For as many years that remain.

- PNC

It truly makes thing significantly more effective and efficient when things are done in order. There is a process for everything, and where there isn't, plan on one being established and written in the near future. This is how things get lost... through a loss in the passing on of knowledge.

However, along with the obtaining of knowledge and experience, should eventually come the acknowledgement of that achievement. Such was the case in church this morning, as two of our leaders were in the church were officially introduced as on-staff Pastors, having completed the requirements within our fellowship of churches to receive pastoral credentials.

They will continue to serve, now, not as leaders over their ministries, but Pastors.

I know, sometimes a title is simply a title. And sometimes, the title is a perception things.

(I"m reminded of the episode in The West Wing, where the executive assistant to the Deputy Chief of Staff attempts to jokingly refer to herself as the Deputy Deputy Chief of Staff.) Guess, you had to watch it for yourself.

So, while the title should instill a level of respect and recognition of someone's abilities and expertise, it should also not negate the fact that they were probably quite accomplished long before the title. (As evidenced by how many people receive honorary degrees, even posthumously.)

Having said that, the kingdom of God has it's team dynamics, just like any other team. Some are leaders and decision makers, others are encouragers, doers and dreamers. Some are detractors, side-liners, naysayers and seat-fillers. We don't like to think that some of those dynamics exist, but it doesn't take long to be a part of a church, to notice that they do appear.

It's awesome to be effective for the kingdom of God, even when you don't have the title. Conversely, it's a tragic state of affairs for a ministry or positions within ministry to lack effectiveness, particularly by those who do hold a certain title. If you have it, all the more reason to accomplish the most good you can with it. If you don't have it, do all you can, regardless.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that ministry would continue to advance and grow, in effective and efficient manner by those who are knowledgeable as well as those who are recognizable. Pray that the people of God would be about His plan and purposes, regardless of a specific or title that accompanies the work and ministry in which they are engaged. May each of us use our time, talents and treasures to advance the cause of Jesus Christ and point others to a relationship with the same.

For we all serve a function and purpose,
Some externally, some internally,
Some in seeming obscurity
But God neither wastes a role, nor a responsibility
To be used for His glory.

- PNC

For all the incredibly brave and noble people who fill and stand in the gap in all sorts of leadership roles, there are plenty who give it bad name, as well as do a less than stellar job, by seeking these rolls for the wrong reasons.

Sadly, pastors have done it... but worse, so have the advisors. And pastors have chosen people for wrong reasons just as people have desired the role for their own wrong reasons.

Also wrong... using the phrase "wrong reasons" four lines in row. But... you didn't notice that.

What concerns me, as well as complicates the reality of the matter, is the conversation we had a few days ago, regarding society's rush to judgement in nearly every arena of life. Not that we haven't been that way for quite some time, but it's gotten significantly more prevalent... no doubt due in part to the onslaught of social media.

The people you think desire leadership with honorable intentions and the decision makers and those who sit as a part of the process sometimes miss the mark. And the people who you thought didn't have an ounce of honorable intention in their soul end up being surprisingly on point. I didn't say perfect. All too often we demand what doesn't exist, then act surprised that our expectations weren't meant.

It truly is a strange phenomenon. But what do you expect from a flawed humanity?

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray that those who seek leadership roles, especially within the church, would indeed be people of honor and integrity; desirous to serve the community rather than satisfy their ego. Pray for discernment for the pastors and others who have input into who steps in advisory roles. Pray also for the church as whole; that we would exercise sound principles, understanding and reasoning when it comes to assessing people and circumstance. May we not rush to judgement, whether through condemnation or commemoration. Pray that we would speakers of truth because we are seekers of the truth.

And while we may make the decisions,
May God direct our steps
And illuminate our paths.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

In case you haven't noticed, there's a reality that seems to exist with politicians, that we should pray never exists with pastors. The quickness with which they judge people.

I don't know where I'm going with this... it's a work in progress.

Just consider in your own life. Nobody appreciates early judgements and statements made about them based on low knowledge and understanding. But some have a seemingly profound knack for making quick statements, that on the appearance of things, sound as if they are based on feelings of frustration and bias. Yet they speak with the conviction, as if they had an inside scoop on the individual's personal life.

How could you have that depth of a connection with someone and yet dismiss them as though they were the worst?

It's a weird phenomena to watch and sadly, it does seem rampant in the political arena.

And yet, that same interaction is not only toxic, regardless of what environment it exists in; it is severely detrimental should it be found within the four walls of the church. Worse, if found in the life of church leadership or the pastorate.

Will politicians ever change? We can only hope they do.
Will pastors ever become? We can only pray they don't.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray that pastors would never possess an attitude whereby they rush to judgement regarding the lives of others. Pray they would be people of understanding and compassion; never forgetting that no matter how strong the disagreement over a matter, that we are all created by God and in His image. Pray that God would give them wisdom and discernment in their interaction with people. Whether they have known them for minutes or years, may their be a humble presence about their lives, yet still speak with the authority and perspective that God has granted them.

A passion for people
To know them.
To understand them.
To reach them.
To impact them.
For the glory of God
And the legacy of eternity.

- PNC

Once again, a few things rattled around regarding today's #seniorPastorMonday post.

Until I heard part of a message from Dr. David Jeremiah. He was talking about the humble beginnings of the church he and his wife started in the early days of their ministry. Humble days. As many, if not all, pastors have experienced. And like all, there were days he wanted to call it quits. The struggle is real. The battle is hard. The road is rough.

Yet, someone reminded him of a prayer that always stuck with him and when he said it, it resonated.

"Lord, use what's left."

It continues to amaze, the nature and character of God. He does not waste anything. He does not waste a life. He does not waste an experience. He does not waste an opportunity in which He could be glorified.

While that's a comforting sentiment, it's also one that is hard to swallow. Think of how many times someone has told you there's nothing left to give, and you keep pushing them for more. To challenge and grow; to press in and to press onward. Then God says, I'm not done...there's more.

And we fight it; as other's have done with us.

However, I can't help but ask how many miracles are being held in the power of such a simple prayer... use what's left, God.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that even if the midst of difficulty, frustration and burnout; may pastors retain the humble posture that would allow God to use what is left. May God strengthen and quicken them when the feel as though there is little left for God to use. May He work the miraculous, as with the loaves and fish. What is of little effect in our eyes, may we commit it to God's care and service to accomplish exponentially more than we could ever fathom.

Clay vessels are we,
Broken and spilled out
For God's plan
And His glory.

- PNC

Isn't funny how life works out sometimes?

There are proven plans and principles, that always work... regardless of who is doing the work or the numbers involved or whatever. There's a plan, there's instruction, there's an example that has been established as precedent. It's doable. It's workable. It's repeatable. And that has been the case for many.

And as such, over time, it has developed into something that is certainly effective, and by and large, efficient.

For the rest of it though... are the times where you aren't sure. And that's usually where God shows up. In the simple steps of prayer and obedience and trusting the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

The conversation that you think would offer the least help, ends up being exactly what someone needed to hear.
What seems to be the most broken and lousy-sounding prayer, ends up getting answered.
The act of kindness or generosity that hardly qualifies as sacrificial to the one who gives it and it means the world (and a changed one at that) to the recipient.

On this efficient and effective focus of a Sunday, I offer this reminder... God uses the foolish things to confound the wise.

And on that note, let's pray this #effectiveSunday, that while it's good to stick with proven plans and processes, may we not disregard or discredit that times, places and means by which God will use to accomplish His will and purposes. May we continually be people who trust that He is working all things out for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Pray that we would neither get ahead of where He is moving and leading, nor we stop or step aside because we don't understand what He is working. Pray that the church would continue to walk in obedience to the Word and pray that even when we can't trace God, we continue to trust in Him.

For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

I remember the day I started a new research job many years ago now. One of the first pieces of advice, I've never forgotten, even if I don't always put it into practice.

There are no stupid questions.

Some may disagree, but you can't live life not knowing what you don't know. And how will you find out if you don't ask?

Even in the smallest of matters and more in the things in which you've put off resolving. For whatever reason in doing so.

Such was my recent experience. A matter that I had been meaning to take care of months ago and it kept getting delayed... albeit it entirely within my control to get it sorted out. So, I finally made the call. And asked for some help from those on the other line who were able help make my case to those who could authorize the solution.

Needless to say, it was 20 minutes well spent. They met me half way. Which makes it that much easier for me to handle my part and responsibility in the matter. But were in not for the asking...

I keep getting reminded by a number of men in my life who have a few years on me; that we all have our moments of getting things wrong. We take care of problems and conflicts thinking we know what we are doing, what's the best way to handle it, manage it, solve it... and we make it worse as often as we make it right. At least if feels as if that is the case.

And those are the times that make me want to stop asking for help; to stop feeling like I don't know what I'm doing. Which is usually about the time that I prove to those around me that I don't have a clue. I'd been better off risking to ask the stupid question.

Even in our relationship with God, wisdom and clarification never hindered anyone, except for when it wasn't provided because it wasn't sought out.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray that no matter the experience or expertise that church leaders would continue to be people who would ask and seek answers and solutions to that which confuses or confounds them. May they be people who seek the truth; both in God's Word and the circumstance in which they daily face. Pray that fear, shame, arrogance or pride would not keep them from growing in wisdom and knowledge. May they seek the face of God and draw from the life experience and understanding of those around them.

For if we are to live and move in unity
Then we must share in our knowledge
And trust in His grace.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Former front-man for the band SonicFlood, posted a picture of Scripture, the end of chapter 24 in Exodus. An incredible description of the presence of the Lord high atop the mountain. To this day, it is hard to comprehend a "devouring fire" as an analogy for the "awesome glory" of the Lord. No wonder Moses upon reappearing to the people looked like a changed man. For indeed, He had been in the presence of Almighty God.

But not for five minutes, or an hour.
Not for five hours or a day.
Neither even a full week.
No... how about five and half weeks!

I'm not sure what God's fascination is with numbers: I know there's incredibly profound meaning behind them, but here again... 40 days and 40 nights, in which Moses got lost in the secret place of God. Away from every distraction; away from every detractor. Away from every supporter, beloved neighbor, closest friend and annoying relative. (Smile, would you?)

I keep thinking about how much more time I need to be spending in the presence of God. Followed by, if I have distractions as well as responsibilities calling for my attention constantly, and I'm of relative, little importance, how much more for the senior pastors of our churches; whose sermons and entire ministries are directly affected by the quality of their relationship with God and the time spent in His presence?

It is a game changer.
For the casting of vision
For the effectiveness of ministry
For the impact upon eternity.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those pastors, struggling to not only find adequate time in the presence of God, but mission-critical time. Pray for those struggling with time-management, and delegation of tasks and responsibilities. May God help them steward their time wisely and raise people up who will be more effective and efficient at handling matters that, while important, are distractions to the study of the Word. Pray that people would sense, with every encounter with the pastor, that they have just come down from the mountain of God. Pray for a sense of clarity that only comes from the throne of a sovereign, omniscient Father.

For what good is it to invest into people
If we don't take time to allow God to invest into us
Through His Word
In His Presence,
That others would see His glory.

- PNC

Social media isn't all bad. But it is like any other relationship. It is what you contribute to it. That said, for all the accolades that it receives in the name of creating "connections", there are so many levels in which it creates a disconnect.

The power of debate and discussion on opposing sides of a matter or topic are lost. Statements lost in context. Non-verbal communication simply can't be transmitted whatsoever, despite any attempt by the use of many emojis. Sarcasm must be noted with multiple asterisks and even then, people don't pick up on the memo.

It really is an interesting phenomena. As well as entertaining at times. And frustrating quite more frequently.

Communication is an art... and sadly, one that is getting lost online. Despite people's attempts to use ever increasingly lofty terms to describe their argument, like false equivalency. Just spell it out. I think you are wrong and here's why. It seems of late, the only comments that have an element of brevity are those which end in calling the opposing debater choice names or demeaning adjectives. But what do I know? Not much, granted.

But I know this... physical connection is worth pursuing and maintaining. Life moves too fast as it is, without neglecting the actually reaching out to people beyond the screen of the keyboard, whether it be on the laptop or the phone's messenger app. A phone call goes a long way. A knock on the front door goes even farther.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that even as the church makes every attempt to connect with more people, especially through the power of social media, that they would also seek to make every connection possible with those in the surrounding communities that they serve. Pray that the power of the local church would neither be neglected nor dismissed. Pray that relationships would be strengthened as the body of Christ reaches out in physical and tangible ways to help those in need and speak life, hope and truth into troubled minds and broken hearts. While the power of technology is incredible, the power of the Cross of Christ is vital.

May we be about what happens in real time,
With face to face engagement, rather than face to screen.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

How amazing is it, that the mind can work through a matter and discuss with itself, at great lengths, what the best course of action is? Of course, depending on the circumstance, the mind takes on all sorts of factors and variables and outlines three, five and nine moves ahead. (someone please tell me, I'm not the only one who struggles with this)

This wouldn't be so problematic for the decision making process, except for the fact, that in a matter of moments, you can end up with two very different routes. Ultimately, you may end up at the same result, but the difference in the process is time and energy, cost and risk. It's good if you are decisive, committed and determined to not give a second thought after the fact, constantly wondering if you have chosen poorly... like choosing the Holy Grail without suffering the immediate effects of getting it wrong.

Otherwise, welcome to the second-guess club. (I'm having jackets made!)

Somehow, the idea of Associate Pastor conjures up images of middle-management. You're a decision maker of some note and worth, with your own plethora of people either reporting to you or coming to you, needing input and advice, direction and authorization. There's a handful of things in which you don't have "final say", but there's an overwhelming amount of circumstances in which you are allowed to speak and do so with knowledge and credibility.

Having said that though, it too leaves you in a vulnerable state. What if you do get it wrong. What if you miss an aspect. What if, while the long-term solution was good, you totally fumble the way you should have gone about it. There's plenty of advice that understands and justifies both paths. One might create a big mess now, but at least you know what you're dealing with. The other, may create a bigger mess later and who knows what you'll have on your hands.

This is a frustrating position to be in. Especially when you are the decision-maker, at least to some degree.

So, would you join me again, on this #associatePastorTuesday. Pray that God would help those struggling with the decisions they face. May God give them wisdom, regarding both the short-term outlook and the long-term prospect. Pray they would be surrounded by good advice. Pray that God would help them to make decisions without fear or worry. While there will always be risk and factors beyond their control, pray that it would not be a point that would cause unhealthy anxiety and stress, both within themselves as well as in the relationships of those affected by the decision. Pray that they would walk confidently in Christ; not held down by regret nor held back by mistakes, both of the past and the recent. May God help them move forward, one day at a time, one decision at a time.

For He has not given us a spirit of fear,
But of peace and a sound mind.
For His glory and by His grace.

- PNC

During praise and worship yesterday morning, we're singing Come To The Altar and the phrase "overcome by the weight of your sin" hit me. How often do we truly think about it?

Probably not nearly enough. Does it break our hearts like it breaks God's? Even as we are being sanctified and in the journey to greater reflect the Christ we love and the God we serve? Probably not.

Pastors on the other hand...

I've known many, that while it doesn't hold them back, have a keen sense of awareness of the human condition before God. And not just those whom they minister. They have a continual broken and contrite heart before God knowing that they, themselves, are not perfect and have neither arrived, nor achieved a position or status where there sin isn't ever before them. Yes, it's been forgiven, but they also understand it is only ever, one step behind them as well.

Conversely, just as it can easily become for all of us, so too, can a pastor forget or dismiss the power and damage of sin in relationship to how we connect with God and man. This is a dangerous place to be, because I think it does affect how we interact with others. And more importantly, it changes how we pray and communicate with God as well as how we read His Word.

That should be our wake-up call. But I fear for pastors who no longer are "overcome by the weight of their sin" as they song reads. It creates an opportunity for spiritual awareness to sneak out and away. Perhaps, worse, it opens the door for a contrite and broken to become a little less contrite and broken. And not because God has healed and restored it. But because it creates a sense that perhaps our sin isn't that bad or it's negative impact in our lives isn't so severe. And that is incredibly dangerous ground on which to stand, live and move our being.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray those pastors who perhaps, aren't as "overwhelmed" as they once wear. Pray for those whose heart isn't as broken and contrite as it once was. Whether they are feeling the effect in their ministry or not, pray that God would do a fresh work in their lives. Pray for their relationships as well, both within the church as well as their home and community. May there be a passion for others because the awareness of what God has done in their heart and mind is ever at the forefront of everything they do and set out to accomplish. Pray they hearts would not grow hardened nor the light go dim, nor their love go cold. May God strengthen their faith as they exercise their faith to greater things.

For the advancement of the kingdom of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.
For His glory alone.

- PNC