If you've listened to Dave Ramsey for any length of time, you've heard him give some very basic advice, particularly when it comes to investing. And it's great advice for a wide variety of other areas of life as well, but it's this...

Don't put your money in things you don't understand.

The investment can be dangerous. We've all heard the horror stories, or been the victim in the story. I trusted the guy who said he knew what he was doing... and yeah; I wish I hadn't.

I know... you've been reading for 30 seconds and you're wondering what this has to do with ministry and pastoral burnout. Well, Dave recently expounded on that concept and applied it on a grander, more impactful scale. His $200 million business which employs over 600 people. It's an incredible story.

But he shared on the air recently, that there's a lot that he doesn't understand. Like technology. But if he's sitting in a meeting where he's being asked to make an investment... it's his money. If somebody can't explain it with some degree of clarity and understanding so that Dave can see it's value and understand long-term what it will accomplish, then it's probably not happening.

While senior pastors are people of the Word and study the Word is their primary responsibility is to deliver the Word, I think there are many churches who have gotten into trouble over the years for the same reason that many businesses have gone under and many families have gotten into trouble.

Decisions have been made that cost us dearly. Emotionally. Mentally. With our time, resources and connections. And yes, with our wallets and checkbooks. All because someone pulled a fast one us that we didn't see coming. Because we were rushed into the decision making process; whether through fear or an "immovable deadline". Perhaps it was peer-pressure or group-think.

Somehow, some way; the ability to exercise discernment and restraint usually has a bigger payoff than the initial presentation of information leads us to believe actually exists. And when it is not exercised, it costs us... in our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Relational. Financial. Ministerial.

Get burned bad enough and you'll be burnt out for a while.

So... let's pray this #seniorPastorMonday for wisdom. And discernment. Pray for the situations and circumstances that call for their attention, demand their understanding and even more, require their decision. May God grant them the ability to understand that which doesn't come naturally. Pray God would help them to surround themselves with those who will give them wise counsel and direction, as well as guard them from attack and plunder. Pray they would not fear regret nor mistakes because they were rushed or convinced into a decision in which peace and understanding was absent from the process.

May the leadership be wise as serpents
And harmless as doves.
Faithful in ministry;
And protected from those who would desire to derail and destroy it.
For the advancement of the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

I had an idea for today's post and somewhere while getting ready for church, I lost it.

Which is what happened at church during the first service... their internet went down. Along with the livestream of the service. :-(

I love technology. And I look forward to going to church and being a part of the community of believers.

And for all the effort, time and prayer that goes into prepping and planning for service, which is all good and well, truly, only a couple of things are needed.

People who are ready to seek the face of God
Someone ready to deliver the Word of God
Hearts ready to hear and respond to the Word of God.

Everything else, while cool, is extra.

Sadly for many churches, one or more of these elements are missing. And while my friend is bummed the internet is down and their team is working on the solution, the word of God goes forth. And it won't be a slow communication response from the cable company that we should be worried about, but a quick response time to the prompting and moving of God and the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.

For all our efforts and abilities to create a church experience; what we truly need every time we gather, is for a personal encounter with God in His throne-room of grace.

Let's pray to that end, this #effectiveSunday. Pray that the Word of God would go forth and that His hand would touch hearts and lives anew and afresh. Pray that as we gather to worship, that Christ would gather in our midst. Pray that hearts would be ready to receive and minds would be open to be changed by the truth of God's Word. May we allow the power of the Holy Spirit to work within us; not towards perfection, but towards bearing a greater image of Christ to the world around us.

That the people of God
Would gain a fresh revelation of God
For a greater relationship with God
And to be a greater reflection of God.
All for His glory.

- PNC

So, here's the problem with relativism as a belief system.

It creates a moving standard.

You can establish a standard based on the fact that it will need to tolerate being able to move or shift in order to perform a function, but by and large, things fail and go seriously wrong when standards aren't met. Hello, quality control? I'd like to file a complaint.

So, to is life. And as much as I'd like to log a complaint, it should probably be against myself, first and foremost.

For justification is the process of something being made "just as if". It's especially comforting when viewed through the lens of faith. We are justified in Christ, making it just as if we hadn't sinned. God sees Christ in us, rather than the sin in us.

And while that's a beautiful picture, we somehow turn and twist that word around as we interact with society and community. We look at the actions, attitudes and words of others and "justify" either the alternate or similar behavior based on someone else.

Since none of us are perfect in our own right, nor by God's standard, then comparison living is incredibly dangerous. Especially as relativism has become as much of a religion as Christianity itself.

There is but one standard. God's.
And sin has leveled the playing field, making it so that all of us fall short. None of us are perfect.

So, while we comment and consider the words and deeds of others, on this #communitySaturday, let's commit and pray to guarding our hearts, minds, words and deeds first. Pray that we would be self-disciplined, not to live perfect lives, but according to His righteousness, standard and truth. Pray that we would be people of the Word as we live and engage in this world. May we impact our community by living not according to the  comparative nature of main, but the true standard of God.

For this is but God alone.
And we will all stand before Him
Accountable only to Him
Answering only for ourselves.
For His glory.

- PNC

I've heard some pretty incredible words of wisdom and perspective in recent days on a variety of big-picture topics as they relate to the direction of our culture and society.

If you'll permit to paraphrase in my own words... the fear of government has taken over one's fear of God.

There was a time when we as a society feared God. Not afraid, mind you. But a healthy awe, respect and reverence. Likewise, we feared our parents; which was a mix of respect and true fear. In fact, our fear of God was instilled in us because of the fear of our parents!

Now, not so much.

We don't look at right and wrong, words and deeds in light of God's truth, love and grace. We act and respond more due to people's perceptions, reactions or how we perceive they might react. While that's always been a far cry from the will and ways of God, it seems like an even farther cry these days.

Beliefs are now biases.
Principles are prejudices.
Conviction is no longer courageous
Discernment is discarded.

We no longer arrive at a place of mutual understanding. We don't even agree to disagree. Sorry isn't enough.
And name-calling is the mic drop moment that ends every conversation.

Christianity and the church even struggles to walk this ever-increasingly fine line. A balancing act that seems to be a set-up and a trap on par with the nature of what the Pharisees laid before Christ himself.

So, while we pray for the strength and fortitude for our pastors, pray also this #deaconThursday for those who serve to complement and complete the leadership force of the local church. Pray that they would be people who know God, as well as His will and His ways. Pray they would be people who would stand by their convictions; live with courage, speak truth, extend grace and show love. Pray they would be guided by the Holy Spirit in all manner of circumstances; and exercise wisdom and discernment as they live and lead. May the power of God supersede all efforts and conversations to do and have an effective ministry. Pray God would prepare hearts, that people would receive what they need from Him, rather than what they think they need from society or government.

For God extended grace
Before He showed His wrath.
Always has; always will.
To the testament of His hope and glory
That all would call upon His name.

- PNC

Perhaps it's the flurry of current events, (and I hope after three years, you know my heart... I truly pray that God helps these not sound boring and repetitious), but my mind and spirit has been circling around the concept of trust again, as we pray for Associate Pastors.

We've prayed numerous times for pastors to have discernment when it comes to who they surround themselves, that they would upright and wise people of God. And while that prayer is still very much necessary and relevant, I wonder how often we look in the mirror with the prayer and desire long before we are in a place of trust and responsibility, that we would be and become people who would one day be entrusted with such positions.

Sure, such desires are always looked at from the positive, highlight moments if you will; often lacking a full understanding of the not so great moments, circumstances and conversations that come with that position. It's as if it's one of the few positions that you can't fully grasp an appreciation and understanding of until it has been lived first-hand.

Will I be found trust-worthy?  Well, that depends.

Largely upon me. Am I living and behaving in ways that build trust and create confidence?

Is it possible that in such moments where trust is broken and betrayed, it is not because of a misjudgement on the part of the one who bears the betrayal, but a wavering of the betrayers' commitment to be and be found trustworthy? I don't know, I'm just asking.

If I don't allow something to fall through the cracks as it depends on me; then I don't have to worry about someone else asking how they missed something as if it depended on them. I hope that's understandable... and if not, my first prayer is that God brings clarity as you read this; perhaps even a second time.

On that note; however, let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday, that all pastors would be committed to personal being people who can be trusted; people of great faith who live with character and walk with integrity. While they walk humbly before God, pray they would also walk upright before man. While understanding our imperfection, may that not stand in the way of making every attempt to walk according to the will and Word of God in both our own words and deeds. May the institution of the church be a place of that glorifies God because of the people who gather there live lives that reflect their personal devotion to glorify God.

Indeed, for His glory alone.
And the advancement of the kingdom of Heaven.

- PNC

I don't know about you, but I keep finding myself somewhat in awe, of just how many #seniorPastorMonday posts are prompted by something that was said during a Sunday morning service. I don't plan it or intend it to work out that way; I just keep an open mind that perhaps a unique perspective might come from the pulpit.

That said, Pastor started a new series on what God mean when He said "church". Specifically, He was talking about building the church and the distinction between the original use of the word.

Jesus was talking about building the church as the people of God, or "Ecclesia" rather than "kirch", which is church as the institution.

And you don't have to look very far, even in Jesus time to understand the difference. His conversations and interactions with the Pharisees and religious leaders should tell you all you need to know between one's focus of church in terms of the people and relationships versus church as known by its building, traditions, theology, dogma and so forth.

The latter is why so many people have a problem with the "church" in these modern times. The problems that people focus on don't revolve around those who are building relationships and community to share the Gospel and the love of Christ, but rather what's wrong with the institution and it's traditions; the religious exercises and contradictions between theology and religious practice. And somewhere in the middle of all of that, people have gotten hurt and offended and upset, resulting in wanting nothing to do with "organized religion".

Yet, the most basic "organization" of the Ecclesia form of church, is God's promise that where two or more are gathered in His name, He will be in their midst. You could have "church" in your favorite coffee shop today as you read this and pray for pastors! And iced coffee is awesome, by the way... you should try it.

There was so much in this sermon that was on point... it was just that good. But as we go to prayer, Pastor pointed out that the landscape of our nation and indeed our world, is filled with beautiful, amazing structures called Church. At one time filled with the people of God. And for whatever reason, at some point, there was a shift... when it became less about the gathering of God's people and instead, something to do. Less about relationship and instead religious practice. Tradition instead of compassion. Protection instead of engagement.

Now they sit dormant... a remnant of the kingdom of God, instead of vibrant, active community of believers with an incredible history of service for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Thus, on this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for the open churches of today. May their focus be and remain on being "Ecclesia". Pray especially for those pastors and churches that are perhaps on the verge of making a dangerous transition; where religious practice and tradition are dominating the conversation and experience. For those that are struggling to see a fresh and miraculous move of God, pray for a revelation of what needs to be changed. Pray for a return to knowing God and having a fresh revelation of who He is and who He has called the community of believers to exemplify. May church not simply be a gathering or an activity, but pray that it would an experience where people seek the face of God and see Christ in those around them. Not something to do, but an opportunity to engage in relationship with both God and man.

For we are called not to do church,
But to be the church.
For it is in being the church,
To which people were added daily.
It is God who builds it
For His glory.

- PNC

Leadership is an interesting dynamic, particularly when it comes to team-building.

You want people who understand the direction and buy in to the vision as well as step in and do whatever needs to be done to move a group or organization forward towards the desired goal or outcome. At the same time, you don't want a group of "yes-men", for who knows what will be missed, overlooked or ignored all in the name and effort of keeping the peace, keeping one happy or keeping in their good graces.

Hence, one of my favorite scenes from the show, The West Wing, when the Chief of Staff offers a job to a lawyer whose political party affiliation is not the same as the administrations'. She has dreamed of working in the White House "since she was 12", but never imagined it would be for the opposing party. Meanwhile, the CoS continues to make his case, appealing to her sense of duty. Ultimately, he gives a great reason why she should join the team, as Associate White House Counsel.

"The President likes smart people who disagree with him."

Not many leaders specifically pick people who disagree with them. And while it might not be a good idea to have a full team of disagreeing people, having someone who can bring a different perspective because they operate from a different belief system has it's advantages. Will you ever come to agree on anything? Maybe. But what happens in the course of the conversation is powerful.

New questions are posed. Premises are challenged. Understanding is gained. Perspective is widened. Experience is shared. And who knows... as happened in a later episode, the outsider might just turn someone around on an issue, making for a better decision and outcome regarding the issue at hand.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray that God would grant discernment to pastors as to who they need and should surround themselves with when it comes to counsel, advice and input. While there are elements of faith and doctrine that they should absolutely be in agreement regarding church leadership and ministry, pray that they would be in agreement because they were able to work through a conversation and the differences of opinion rather than simply saying 'yes'. May their differences in opinion and perspective not stand in the way of them coming together for the cause of Christ and advancing the kingdom of Heaven. Pray God would perform the miraculous, through the acts of submission and willingness to serve in ministry; even when decisions and plans don't go as they would have liked, hoped and planned.

A unified force
Because of a commitment to work through the differences
For the glory of God

- PNC

I heard the sad story over the weekend, and not even the complete one at that, of closed doors.

We've all experienced closed doors. Opportunities that were on the horizon, being chased after, even being lived out. Then one leads to another and the opportunity is gone and the door is closed.

We pray against burnout; we pray for the effectiveness of church and their ministry and the ability for a congregation to impact their community. But it doesn't always work out.

The dreams and the visions and hopes don't always align with reality and for any number of reasons, a church closes it's doors.

And you could still hear the loss and the heartache in the voice of a pastor, who without going into any specific details, relayed that has part of his reality and experience. And my heart breaks with him.

It's hard to fathom and yet for as often as it happens, we never hear about it, much less get any advance warning as if something could be done to help keep the doors open. And while God does work things out for good, even amidst loss and sorrow, it doesn't change the reality of shattered hopes and dreams for those who wanted to change their community through the ministry of the church. Even when it opens opportunity for ministry elsewhere, it remains a sad piece of the story.

So, on this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those pastors who have experienced the pain of closing church doors. May God give them strength, even after the loss, whether it be recent or long ago. Pray God would use them for effective ministry as well; that opportunities would be made available beyond what they thought possible. Pray for healing and restoration; for there is a grief and an agony that accompanies such circumstances. May the reality of the circumstance be an opportunity for God to work the miraculous, rather than the enemy to gain a foothold of defeat and destruction in their heart, mind and soul. Finally, pray for an awareness; that communities and churches would desire the doors to remain open and have opportunity to help out long before it becomes to late.

For the sovereign hand of God
Opens doors that no man can shut
As much as He shuts doors that cannot be opened.
For His glory, by His will.

- PNC

At some point today, I had a sense that there was to be a focus on college and universities and not only that group of students and what they are encountering in life, but also for those who minister to that group of young people.

It's pretty incredible what's happening on campuses right now; so much so, I think that I'm glad that phase of life is behind me. Make that, all of formal education. Struggles and challenges abound, as they always have, but as realities seem to reach into issues, perspectives and understandings that many aren't prepared for... it's like trying to work the navigation screen while already moving.

Daily, we're hearing, seeing and reading things that simply don't make any sense. And in the attempt to understand in order that a response can be formulated, you simultaneously sit in disbelief... wondering when this became a thing and how it became a thing.

So, as I'm thinking about this topic today, Dave Ramsey opens up his show this afternoon and proves this point for me. He reads a news item about how 21% of college students are using their student loans to invest in Bitcoin.

Dave's rant was pretty comical, actually. But still. It's against the law to use student loans for anything other than educational purposes, let alone investing. And then of all things, something as volatile as Bitcoin? Scary.

There's some incredible young people today. And much to be encouraged by, regarding their passion, engagement and perspective. Then, as with every generation, the one question I still can hear my father ask of me in my younger years... "what were you thinking?"

Tomorrow is here. 

On this #youthPastorWednesday, I can only pray and trust you will join me, that today they will enter and impact the world with a solid foundation of faith. Pray they would live and engage, not from an identity found in politics or an ideology, but an identity found in Christ. While life is a constant process of learning, pray a sense of wisdom and understanding. Pray they would know whose they are, in whose image they were created and for what purpose they have been set apart by God to accomplish. May God perform the miraculous as they commit their lives and ways to Him first and foremost.

Dedicated to one cause only,
The cause of Jesus Christ.
Changing the world.
For all eternity.

- PNC

Yes, this is another late day post. But interestingly enough there's a consistent theme.

If you heard any of the press conference or interviews from the Head Coach of University of Michigan basketball after last night's loss against Villanova, you know it's an act of true leadership; that skips past the conversations "if we hadn't done that and if we had only done this instead" or "we gave it all our and it wasn't enough", etc. We've all heard the post-game speeches.

Coach was straight up. Proud of what they had accomplished. Bummed about the loss. But that's life. One's current state of sadness doesn't negate all the moments of greatness and joy that came before.

If that weren't enough, my wife is watching television. The lead character is defining the character trait that even in the midst of great trials and obstacles, one is able to persevere and overcome; maintaining a positive outlook that they are not defined by their circumstances... simply present in them and responsible for how they react to them.

One would think that a person of faith would have no problem living with such a healthy and balanced perspective in their life. Even more so, for those in ministry. Is their faith not unshakable?

Indeed, though life happens to us all. And often, the stories of others can be more overwhelming and harder to handle than our own. Given enough time, enough conversations... the joys can seem lost and all too infrequent.

So, on this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for those struggling to maintain and remember the moments of joy. Pray the joy of the Lord would be their strength, even in times of trials and obstacles, suffering and loss. May they be encouraged by the sovereign hand of God. Pray that God would help in their conversations, as they minister and walk with others. May they stand firm in the faith, focused on the plans and purposes of God; for the sake of eternity, not just their time on Earth.

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

- PNC

So the final game of March Madness is tonight. And man, what a crazy couple of weeks in the world of college basketball. I don't normally follow much of it, but for some reason, this year I did. But every match-up has been covered in a shroud of conversation, which always includes a discussion of the "odds-on favorite" as the pundits and prognosticators make their predictions.

This final game, is no different.

But it got me thinking about the conversation that goes on when pastors prepare to take on a new church or ministry project that involves a making a serious move or transition from their current post.

I've had trouble deciding which job to take when there has been more than option on the table! Yet, ministry opportunities about and many pastorate seats are needing to be filled at any given time. I'm certain the conversation is given more thought, debate and prayer than the game-day commentators, but I still can't help but wonder, given the preference of options, is one position more desirable than other?

Among the choices, is there a preferred, "odds-on favorite"?

I know God works in mysterious ways. I know often times, Pastors just know, where there supposed to go and when. But what if they don't? What it takes time? What if it takes longer than anticipated? What if, as the course of the game progresses, things don't go as planned?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those seeking God's direction on the court and course of their ministry. May God lead and guide them to the specifics of where He has ordained for them to go. Pray for wisdom as the conversation progresses and strength to endure when things don't go as planned. May they not be derailed or detoured when things get frustrating or stressful; but may there remain a quiet confidence in the calling God has placed upon their lives.

For in the kingdom of God
There is no winning or losing.
Only faithful service
To the cause of Jesus Christ
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Jesus is Risen! He is Risen, indeed!

It's hard on Resurrection Sunday, the day in which we celebrate Christ's conquering of death, hell and the grave, to consider just how much "work" goes into living a life of faith in God. And yet, as I'm certain I've stated in previous years, the words "It Is Finished" as an incredible sentiment.

In fact, Easter Sunday remains, perhaps the most #effectiveSunday ever!

Which is utterly amazing. Just as amazing though, are some thoughts on Passover itself, which of course, now that I was looking for a particular reference point, I can't locate it.

But consider this.

The people of Israel depart from Egypt the day after the angel of death passes over.
Christ departs, the day after having celebrated Passover with His disciples.

And the southern kingdom, operated on a different calendar than Christ and the northern kingdom. So their preparation of the Passover was consistent with the preparation of the lamb, only in this case, the Lamb of God.

What I find chilling... the sky going dark. It's representative of the angel of death claiming the first born. Only this time, the first born of Heaven; Christ's blood covering the doorpost of the Earth for the rest of humanity.

We all have times, where we can't see ourselves completing the task or seeing a process through to the end. If Jesus suggested His willingness to exit stage left before the final scene should that be a viable option, how prone are we to want to do the same? Nevertheless, He remained to the closing curtain, only to rip it apart, in order that there wouldn't be just an eruption of eternal gratitude but an invitation into relationship with the Father.   

How awesome, is the sovereign timing of the Hand of God; if for the love of His firstborn, how much more His created being! And the work of His Hand, throughout the Earth to our innermost corner of the soul.

A holy work.
A refining work.
A transforming work.
A perfecting work.
A diving work.
A personal work.
A redemptive work.
A finished work.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that many would come to know this work; His work... of the love of God to liberate us from our sinful state. Pray that we would know Christ like never before; possessing a greater understanding, appreciation and purpose of His life. May those around us see Christ in us, that we would display His love and grace to a world in desperate need of Him. Pray that new life would arise, as the life of Christ is raised.   May we be faithful to complete the work that God has started in us, as much as Christ remained  in the Father, that He might complete His ordained work on this Earth.

Effective for the cause of Christ
For the glory of God
That eternity would be forever changed.
Again.

- PNC                                 

I heard some good conversation recently on people in positions of power and the opportunity for corruption... well, not so much opportunity as it was, it's down right existence.

It doesn't really matter what environment it grows in; its' affects are an overwhelming hindrance to life, ultimately to those in the midst of it, but sooner or later it extends to those who will receive it's unintended consequences. That creates huge problems.

Trust becomes an issue.
Correction becomes complicated.
Yet as awareness spreads,
Outrage grows deep and wide.

And depending on the circumstances surrounding it and in particular, the people and power that may reside at corruption's core, hopelessness of any positive change may be inevitable.

Such an existence is not good for a country, nor is it good for a local community. It destroys a single business with as much a devastating end as it does a single church.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray for the leadership of today's church. May the hold their positions of power and influence with wisdom and humility. Pray they would lead their church with the integrity that we would expect them to lead their home. Pray their ability to walk and live according to God's Word in public would indeed stem from time and fellowship with Him at home. And pray that God would do the miraculous, in churches, communities and countries that are in the midst of devastating corruption practices. May there be a shift of direction and a day of reckoning would come quickly; that they would witness a turn-around in their every day life as well as for eternity.

For God has called us to a higher standard,
For His glory and by His strength.
Not overcome by the darkness,
But a light that scatters the darkness.

- PNC

Termites cause more damage in America than the big, dramatic events do. - Steven Mansfield

Yes, I know what you're thinking. Seriously? A third run regarding Ramsey and Mansfield? But consider the power of that thought as it applies to life, rather than housing.

The big, dramatic events in our lives do possess great power and impact, sometimes more than they should because of the power we give them. Other times, because they truly are live-changing events.

But as we pray over youth pastors in light of today's youth, how much more should we worried about the termites.

The little things have a way of sneaking in and getting under our skin and into our spirits and if not dealt with properly and early, we find ourselves dealing with things in adulthood that could have been resolved in childhood.

Except at the point, rather than being resolved on the home-front, we find ourselves having to battle them while we navigate a career or a relationship or a ministry. It's not that the problem can't be taken care of that stage in the game... it's just a more serious stage. A larger infestation means more time, energy and money invested in its' removal. It's worth doing, yes. But the value is in the prevention and early detection.

It's for the health of our lives, our kids and our ministries.

Let's pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help us identify the termites in our own lives, in the lives of our youth and in our ministries. Pray they would not move beyond the point of infestation that would cause distraction, derailment and destruction. Pray for wisdom, to know how to handle problems and issues as they arise, to deal with them in a spirit of love and truth and to call out that which does not belong. May there be a sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, not only in the lives of youth pastors for their benefit, but also to instill that discipline in the lives of the youth they minister to; so that when they reach adulthood, the dramatic events of life will be the things that are beyond their control, rather than those things which are not only within their control, but preventable as well.

For God's work in our lives,
Is a refining fire.
Uncomfortable as though it is,
Better when less is required.
More of His Spirit...
Less of the termites.

- PNC

33 years in... well, 33 minutes.

That was the sentiment pastor shared yesterday in the opening statements of his message; to convey 33 years of experience condensed in a morning message. Or 33 minutes for the sake of phraseology.

He was talking about how we are an imperfect people and yet, in we are made perfect in Christ as we grow in our revelation and knowledge of who He is. And that is a process that takes time. As another pastor friend of mine always says, whenever you read the Word, the Word reads you.

But, it really is true. The revelation of God is an evolving process. His infinite existence. Our finite minds. I don't need explain further. As life unfolds, our understanding expands. Pastor pointed how true this is, in the story of the woman caught in adultery. When Jesus asks for him who was without sin to cast the first stone, we are told that one by one, her accusers left. Starting with the oldest among them.

Why? Perspective that leads to wisdom. And the words of Christ turning the mirror upon their very souls. The recognizable problem of their own condition was more apparent to those who had been around longer; the younger, naturally, took a little longer.

I say all of that to say, I continue to be amazed at the direction and process of pastors in navigating the steps of what to preach and when and the changes that occur along the way. Not knowing who might be in church, nor what they are going through... so much goes unknown.

There's an art to public speaking. And for the most part, the speaker knows the topic and the audience has an expectation of the topic. Preaching on the other hand, really is a divine ordeal. The unseen hand of God arranging circumstances and events in peoples lives, in such a way as to be open to hear the Word of God, or closed and yet changed by the Holy Spirit as the Word is delivered. Conviction. Grace. Love. Hope. Restoration. The range of experiences, perspectives and understandings that people leave with, from the same sermon is utterly incredible.

It'd be easy for a pastor to get caught up in sharing whatever they feel like on any given Sunday, as much as it would be for me to write these posts. But I think we could all agree, in these last days, we truly need pastors to continually be seeking the face of God as they prepare for every message and devotional.  They may not fit their 33 years of experience in the time allotted for the sermon or service, but they can fill those "33 minutes" with the revelation of God through His Word.

Pray, this #seniorPastorSunday, that such would be the case in every service and opportunity. May they continually seek the face of God and share that which He has imparted and revealed to them through prayer and study. Pray an awareness in their lives, for their church and community; that they would know what to present and when as they trust the hand of God and the power of the Holy Spirit to be at work in their ministry and congregation.

That we not trust our own intuition
But solely on the sovereignty of God
And the prompting of the Holy Spirit,
For it is not our experience that matters,
But God's purposes being carried out
In those whose lives are wholly His.

- PNC

Well, this is going to drive me nuts. I heard an interview with Steve Mansfield yesterday, and I can't remember who the host was and thus, can't find what I wanted to reference. Alas... almost, like having writer's block.

Mansfield is the author of many books, among them, the book, Ten Signs of a Leadership Crash.

I can't wait to the book, where he outlines the signs of what to look for, when leadership might be in trouble. And if you are wondering how this relates to community; well, that's why I was trying to recall the interview. For in it, Mansfield talks about how many times the signs that trouble is on the horizon are large and noticeable, but the book talks about what may not be so noticeable; or at least circumstances and behaviors and other indicators that we may not link with foreseeable problem.

In case you're wonder, I'm pretty sure he was on Dave Ramsey's show, as I recall them discussing the need for a "band of brothers", which happens to be another Mansfield titled-book. In the conversation, Ramsey talks about how community creates a closeness in our relationships; that the power of preventing a crash lies in being able to call the person out, when they say everything is fine, but you can tell something is amiss.

If I tell you I'm fine and we hardly hang out, how would you know to question otherwise?
Conversely, if we talk daily or hang out with an considerable amount of frequency, you'll know pretty quick when it's time for someone to give up the gig and acknowledge the truth of their reality.

When I ask what's wrong, it means I'm expecting to hear a problem and want to help. If I wasn't interested in either, I wouldn't bother to ask or prod you to answer. That comes through community. It comes through caring. It also prompts us to be real and live real.

Life wasn't meant to be lived in a bubble. Nor is it all colored bubbles, as we talked recently. We can endure, survive and come out stronger than ever. By the hand of God. With the help of friends. For an eternal purpose.

Let's pray this #communitySaturday that we would build and foster great community and strong relationships. May we invest in the lives of those around us, both strangers and friends and allow people to positively invest in us; that we would be challenged to grow in the grace and knowledge of Christ and allow the hand of God to lead, guide and direct us in the plans and purposes that He has ordained that we should walk and live. Pray people of faith would lead by example, that the community of Christ through the local church would change the world, by impacting their community with the love of God.

For His glory
And the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

While channel surfing the radio this morning during the morning hours today, I caught part of a message that I thought was pretty powerful. (Yes... I'm behind on you having the full day to pray. I'm working on it)

I don't know about you, but I've had many a time where I've been frustrated with my life, in some area or another, and it seems as the battles and frustrations are on repeat. Faith seems like a constant battle between what you know in your heart versus what you think with your mind.

The heart may mess with your emotions, but your mind will lie to you regarding the truth.

As a result, we battle in ways that God never intended. But His grace is sufficient. As such, the game-changer of the message is this:

"God never tires of coming to your defense."

Isn't that a great reminder?

For what believer and church leader hasn't reached certain levels of frustration with themselves regarding a particular aspect or arena of their live, that even they can't believe they are still struggling with and bringing before the cross of Christ.

It's like we get tired of confessing, as if it weren't accomplishing anything good at all!

Yet, I think God has the same conversation with us, that I described yesterday having with my daughter.

"I will win this conversation".

As much as we reinforce our love, care and support for those in our lives, so too, is Christ constant in His pursuit of our hearts. His grace unending, His love unfailing, His forgiveness unrelenting, His plan, never undone.

So, no matter how many times it takes, we continually present ourselves before the thrown of grace and acknowledge, we can not life this live according to God's divine plan, without the help of His divine hand.

Let's pray, this #deaconThursday, that God would be those in church leadership who are struggling with seemingly, repeating battles. May God give them strength to overcome and wisdom to know how to overcome. Pray they would not grow discouraged, nor their hearts grow faint; but that they would continually rely on God and the power of the Holy Spirit. May they pursue the victory that God has granted for them with the relentless passion that God demonstrates daily for all humanity.

For we overcome by the blood of the Lamb
And the word of our testimony.
May today be a day of declaration.
Of a victorious life.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Yesterday's message on the story of blind Bartimaeus was a powerful... to say the least. But one element stood out; as it usually does. The message, by the way, came from a high-energy man who happens to be the Under Sheriff for the county! So, it was a pretty cool service, indeed.

There's much that is amazing about his story, but this was the capturing moment. Christ' own disciples tried to silence him when he called out to Jesus. But Bartimaeus called out louder.

As we've talked many times before, we see just how hard of a time people are having with the truth. Hearing it, receiving it, responding to it. And sharing it.

Bartimaeus calls out, yells out... screams out. Without conviction. Refusing to be silenced. Sure, he needed something from Jesus. But more importantly, something resonated in his spirit, that he knew He needed to respond. And of course, Christ responds to him.

Truth matters. If for no other reason, as once shared in an episode of the West Wing, it's the easiest thing to remember.

But more importantly, we're dealing in spiritual matters. Lives hang in the balance, here on Earth, certainly. Even more so, they hang in the balance for the sake of eternity as well.

My schedule in writing these posts has been thrown off late, and while I knew this was the topic for the day, writing this later in the day has it's advantage... for before doing so, a link appeared in my social media newsfeed.

A megachurch Baptist Pastor in Harlem, whose congregation has grown from 350 to over 10,000 in the past 14 years now speaks that it's "insanity" to believe Jesus is the only way.

What are we doing, if we are not speaking the truth?

With conviction. Beyond the voice of the critics and those who attempt to silence those who speak it... even those within the church. Our pastors need prayer. Our churches need help. And a lost and dying world is crying out... and we if we are not responding with the cries of truth; then why respond at all?

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that pastors would speak and declare truth. Pray that they would know, understand and preach the WHOLE counsel of God. Not the part that is loving and accepting, not the emotionally comforting, not the pleasant, politically correct; but the WHOLE TRUTH of God's Word. Pray for a spirit of wisdom and discernment in all circumstances and conversations. May the word be revealed anew and afresh as they study, pray and devote themselves to God.

For His Word is truth.
A lamp to our feet;
A light to our path.
That leads us to the cross of Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

As I reflected on Wednesday's post regarding today's youth, I got to thinking about how we are called to prayer for our leaders. Not only within the space of the church and ministry, but also in the arena of civics and government.

How quickly, do we seemingly forgot, that we are called to be people of prayer?

Not only to those that are nice to us, but our enemies as well.
Not only for our friends, but for the strangers.
Not for the leadership we appreciate, but for those who we, maybe don't appreciate so much.
Not for those with whom we are in complete agreement, but with those whom we vehemently disagree!
To say nothing of those who despise and revile us and speak all manner of evil against us...

One generation leads the next and the both of the power to influence each other. They have both of lesson to learn from each other and the both bring a perspective that the other side may not understand.

Within the church and the culture alike, the difficulties that exist as leaders try to lead exists for many reasons, but largely in part because we don't approach each other having spent sufficient time in prayer over them before hand.

On this #deaconThursday, by all means, pray for the leadership of the church. Indeed, pray that they would have wisdom and discernment; understanding and compassion. Pray that they would speak the truth as well as be seekers of the truth. But most important, pray that they would men and women of prayer, themselves. May they lead with conviction and love, having spent time in the presence of God and allowing Him to direct how they lead; their lives, their homes, their career, their ministry, their church and the world.

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

- PNC