From the same favorite television show that I referenced the other day, is a scene where the actor is playing the role of the New Hampshire governor and a couple people from his staff are pitching him ideas for an ad campaign to boost tourism to the state. When an old friend comes to visit him and the meeting ends, the friend looks at the display and reads the slogan, as though it where a question rather than a statement: "New Hampshire. It's What's New."

In light of yesterdays' post discussing the "reprogramming" of our church's schedule and "life groups", it occurred to me that many churches of late, have gone through or are in the process of going through their operations, ministries and programs (hence the picture) and figure out what is working and what might need to be reworked...all in the name of improved efficiency and greater effectiveness for the cause of Christ. It's hard to accomplish. A go-fast world, with a go-faster schedule and technology that kicks it up another gear every time you are within reach of the pace it was a just a few moments ago. Don't forgot the lights have to be just right and the sounds incredible or our interests will not be captured  The transforming power of the truth of Christ must remain central to whatever changes are made to help advance the kingdom of God in the communities in which we live.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray for churches going through changes in ministry and programs as they figure out what isn't working and what needs to work better. Pray for guidance, wisdom and discernment, that while opinions will vary greatly, decisions will be made in prayer and led of the Spirit, rather than making changes for change sake. Pray for greater involvement from members and attendees, both in participation and financial contribution. Continue to pray for greater awareness; that we would connect with others in both church and community; that we may know how to help those struggling and in need because we know of the struggle and the need.

May we know what we are to do, as there is always something to do...for the cause of Christ. For the glory of God.
Life for the living.

-PNC

Don't you just love this pic? You almost don't want to tell him that as an adult, you'll want to sit on the floor (insert personal clothing preference here) with your hand on your head and consider "what in the world."

Our church has just revamped our home groups and Sunday night scheduling in an effort to foster greater emphasis on "doing life together."

As our senior pastor and his wife iterated last night, "we all need relationship." There are countless stories in the groups of strangers becoming friends, acquaintances becoming best friends and friends becoming family.

And since everyone needs relationships, how do we grow and invite others to share in community and experience life with greater enjoyment, increased fulfillment, clarity of purpose and depth of belonging. It starts with open hearts, open eyes and praying for divine appointments.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that God would present to us, divine appointments. Pray for open and understanding hearts, ready and able to reach out to those in need of a friend. Pray for a strengthening of relationships, that they would grow and develop, as Scripture describes "iron sharpening iron. As God created man for relationship unto himself, God also understood it was not good for man to be alone on this earth. Pray for the truth of needing relationships with each other to come alive and that as we grow in community, people will experience life together, and with Christ, life more abundantly.

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

-PNC

There's a line from one of my favorite television shows of all time, where the guy who led the strategy resulting in victory is being congratulated on his work. Humbling acknowledging that it wouldn't have happened without the rest of the group, he simply replied: "It helps when you cook with the right food.".

I had my own such moment, albeit on an insignificant scale. The one tool I needed for a task on my to do list, was missing a critical piece, that would have helped that tool do the most effective and efficient job. After a pretty lengthy search involving the retracing of steps (aka: where did you put it when it was last in your hand) I found a much older tool and took a chance. It worked out, but I had a few moments of "this is not gonna look right when I'm done". Frustrating as it was, it easily took over an hour longer than it should have (which is normally maybe 10 or 15 minutes).

Yet, trying to make the best of it, it dawned on me...is this how missionaries feel when they don't have what the need? "The right food" to use Bruno's phrase. The right tool for the job as was my case last night. The right helps...whatever they may be, that will enable missionaries to do the best job possible, at an efficient pace with effective results.

Sadly, a "super-majority" of them, if you will, do not. (if I dare to speculate for the purpose of this post)  That said, I can't tell you how many times when my Pastor has discussed missions, how many missionaries ask for our financial support and at times you can only do so much. Give credit to God's blessing, I think our church is at 75-80 missionaries per month, currently

That said...it's not enough. They need our prayer. They need our support.

On this #missionsFriday, pray for missionaries, that God would provide, through the super-natural and through people, the "right helps". Pray for finances and resources to pour in to the mission field. Pray for tools and laborers for construction projects, food for feeding programs and relief for those devastated by natural disasters. Pray for strength and encouragement, that God has not forgotten nor neglected those on the mission field. Pray for creativity in using the tools and resources that are currently available as they try to make the most of what is in their hands. Pray for open doors and open hearts, that generosity would manifest itself from the most unlikely of sources. Pray for a renewed sense of faith, a new level of trust and increased stamina that when they've done all they can do, the remain standing...resting in God

It amazes me how much people can accomplish in a given day. Followed by tomorrow. And they just keep going. Then exhaustion croaches in. You have to keep going, but you're not sure how it's going to happen.

When it comes to church operations and ministry, there's not exactly a pause button.  The  best thing you can do then, is place a greater emphasis on your daily reliance on God.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for deacons, administrators and staff...for strength, endurance nd energy. Pray not just for their physical levels, but also on emotional, mental and psychological levels. Pray for renewed sense of focus and creativity. May friends, family and even strangers provide support and encouragement, thgat their work, as taxing as it may be, makes an eternal impact for the glory of God.

-PNC

Seemingly, out of nowhere, it occurred to me last night, that whatever environment kids find themselves in, is contagious.

Positive, loving, respectful and happy...they will catch it and exhibit the same.

Negative, hateful, demeaning and unhappy...just as much contagious.

Easy to remember, not so easy to carry-out when life's responsibilities become stress-points of challenge and frustration. What's incredible is how quickly kids exhibit the characteristics of their environment. If you're not paying attention, you'll wake up one day wondering "how did this happen?". If you are paying attention, you'll find yourself wanting to make corrections if necessary, as quickly as possible

For this #youthPastorWednesday, pray for wisdom as they witness, first-hand, what takes place in the lives of kids and youth in their ministry. Pray for discernment as they impart the truth of God's Word into young lives. Pray for creativity, in being able to provide practical application of God's Word to their lives on a daily basis. Pray for insight as Pastors help parents in offering counsel and guidance in raising kids and teens who know will know and love God and long to live lives of purpose with eternity in mind, for the glory of God.

-PNC

Last week we prayed for Associate Pastors as they gain experience. Yesterday we prayed over Senior Pastors and the spirit of discernment. In that similar vein of thought, I was considering decision-making.

As in finances, $20 spent on going out with friends is $20 less you have for gas, when you gauge drops below 1/4 in a couple days; so to, saying yes to one thing equates to denial of another.

If only all decisions could be broken down, free of external factors, opinions and influences that create complexity. Yet dealing with complexity is how you gain experience and learning to do it well is you become one that others look to as competent. Competency with a long track record turns to wisdom. Everything about creation, the most complex forms and circumstances can be traced back to a single decision, in which one had received an affirmative response and the other, an automatic decline.

Whilst the decline can be hard to watch and resisting the temptation to change one's mind is a struggle at best, it's crucial that right decisions are made with the right people involved, with accurate information and sufficient resources to follow through. If any of those four components are off; a lesson will be learned, but probably not without consequences.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for discernment in the decisions they face; to say Yes with confidence, to say No with conviction. Pray for wisdom regarding the decision-making process; may the right people be involved, may the strategy be comprehensive; the information accurate; and the resources in place. Pray for those times, when one of these elements are missing...may they have guidance to know if that means to wait entirely or to have faith in making the best decision available at the time. Pray for the people and ministries affected by those decisions. 50% will have something negative to say about the outcome...may God help you navigate potential fall-outs, while trusting God will carry you as you follow-through.

-PNC

Yes, in 2015, time is changing. Fast.

In the classic timing of God, my pastor mentioned the passage from I Chronicles 12:32, in last nights church business meeting devotional.

I particularly like the phraseology of the Douay-Rheims Bible:

Also of the sons of Issachar men of understanding, that knew all times to order what Israel should do, two hundred principal men: and all the rest of the tribe followed their counsel.

Upon his sharing the passage, I immediately wished and prayed for more pastors to better understand and lead according to the Word and by the Spirit.

I know many pastors do. I fear many are not. I fear the number of those who may fall to social and political pressure of issue may be growing.

Thankfully, there is prayer! And a God who hears us. And the Holy Spirit who makes intercession for us when we don't know how to pray.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for the increased ability to discern the times. Pray for proper direction; to lead, guide and cast clear vision for their church. Pray for the courage of conviction. Pray for clarity of thought in casting vision; that genuine care and concern will be made clear. May there be understanding among the church, that Pastors are looking out for the safety, security and well-being of the church and its people just as much as they are looking out for the community they serve. May they know what to do at all times, by the grace of God, for His glory.

-PNC

These are tumultuous times.  The lives of more than 80 law enforcement officers this year alone, have been taken from us in the line of duty. There are those who have lost their life as victims of criminal activity. And just as tragic, criminal activity has taken the lives of those engaged in it. And to those who have sacrificed their lives in service to God and country...our condolences offered with many thanks.

Every passing has its own story, and has left an impact in the lives of those around them. It doesn't matter the reason...dealing with loss is difficult. And my prayers are with the church family who lost mom just 2 days ago. I'm glad communities come together at times like this...I'm sad they don't seem to come together as much when not over such circumstances.

I heard this the other day...If you'd fly cross-country to mourn the loss of a life, why don't you fly cross-country to share life while they are living? Send flowers, send a note, meet for coffee...don't wait for the funeral to share your gratitude and prayers for those whom you care.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, may the church make every effort to share life...with other believers, with those who don't believe; with those who serve; with those whose decisions negatively impact society. May we not only share life, but Life - the truth of who God is and what Christ did for us all. Unlikely we see in our world, Christ doesn't pick which life to use as an example of importance, that we should look up to or remember. Christ love the world and he reached out to every member of His community. Pray the church follows his example; to reach our world for the glory of God...

if every life is worth mourning over their death, then every life is worth sharing while they have breath.

-PNC

It's amazing how people respond to someone who speaks...well, there's so many descriptives: off the cuff, flippant, out of ignorance, without regard for those whom they speak off...the list could continue.

Social media is abuzz regarding comments made by the hosts of an opinion-based talk show regarding the nursing profession.

After reading some nurses response, I realized...the hosts didn't know or didn't care what they were talking about it. If only they cared enough to know.

Upon this realization, my mind jumped...to the countless hours of study and preparation made my missionaries getting ready to enter the field. The work is to help them be effective. To help them be efficient. In order to do so, they have to care about what is going on in that region; among that people group; the culture of that environment.

They have to know their audience!

What good is your message if you don't know how to present it in such as manner as to ensure you succeed in being properly understood?

On this #missionsFriday, pray for missionaries and the countless hours of preparation and study that goes into their ministry. Pray for increased opportunities to know their audience through conversation and sharing life experiences. Pray for knowledge, resources and tools for them to be effective in sharing the gospel of Christ. May the truth be known, understand and shared, to the extent people experience love, grace and compassion, rather than anger, frustration and offense.  Pray that the planted seeds of the Gospel fall on good soil; whereby the transforming power of Christ can change attitudes, hearts and minds; lest all of us would be the most selfish individuals any of us have ever known.

-PNC

Yesterday morning, I was listening to a sermon on false teachers and how they typically come from within the church. One of the scriptures referenced was the parable of the sower...the concept being that, just because the seed has been planted, doesn't mean that whatever happens to the seed, save the one on good soil, involves those individuals suddenly dismissing themselves from the church.

Meaning, it's possible to be in church, hear the word, accept the word, not doing anything with it (choked, stolen, etc), yet continue to be at the church.

It was an interesting analogy, until I sat in church last night. Taking a few moments to reflect on the day while seated during the praise and worship portion of the service, I opened the Bible in front of me to no place in particular. Where do you think I landed?  Yeah...the page on which was the parable of the sower. 

In that moment, it occurred to me...deacons and admins are among the lead positions to watch for false teachers; for in worst case scenarios; what happens when a pastor strays from preaching the "whole counsel of God" and starts preaching what Paul refers to as "another gospel".

The third irony, is the series we've been going through on Wednesday nights.  The past two services have been on the Israelites and the wilderness experience. What happened at Kadesh Barnea; the place of opportunity that God had for them...they missed it, but as a result, they didn't stay where they were...the declined, morally in this case.

So it is with the seed. If the soil is not managed in a way conducive to the seed accomplishing its work, then soon, the landscape looks dismal; in a state of disarray, disrepair. Decline. The work to bring it back to a place for it to be usable again...much time, energy and resources are required.

For this #deaconThursday, pray for deacons, admins, and staff...may they be alert and aware for false teachers. May they be in tune with the things of God and His word to recognize when something is out of line or off base. Pray for guidance and wisdom when such issues arise and handled. Though the conversation be difficult, may it be covered with grace and understanding; not combative and argumentative. Pray that the church would be a place of good soil...not perfect, not holier than though; but a genuine understanding of who we are without God, what we have in Him through Christ and what He has for us through humbling ourselves, knowing our life is not our own. May we live for an audience of 1, not an audience of self.

-PNC

This is always a great conversation, isn't? 

C'mon, it'll be great! We've done this before. You'll be fine. It'll be fun!

From the other person...speak for yourself, I haven't done this before!!!

So it goes, particularly when trying to convince kids and teens that whatever the new experience may hold,  it very well be an incredible opportunity and who knows what doors may open as a result.

 This is true for practically everything, that while risk may be involved, if it's not illegal and immoral.....everyday life stuff, a new skill, new adventure, a new sport, making new friends, changing schools...moving.

Anything new can be unsettling. And there's a difference between the simple fact that it's new and "it" being unsettling because it's illegal, immoral, unethical and potentially life threatening to one's self or others.  Of course, I'm thinking we're talking about kids, why the disclaimer. Then I remember...because 2015.

If children are an inheritance from the Lord, then parenting is act of stewardship.

On this #youthpastorWednesday, pray for pastors of kids and teens, that they would properly help lead and guide them to and through the truth of God. Pray for peace that all will work out for the new experiences they face. Pray for wisdom and protection in helping kids through the experiences indeed to destroy them. Pray for insight, that pastors would have timely words at appropriate moments whereby kids would sense genuine care and concern from a leader, and more importantly, the love of God. In all things, may kids know God has a plan and a purpose for their lives. While the world may fail them and heaven forbid, neglect them, God will never, ever leave them.


-PNC

Yesterday we prayed over the experienced. As I went through the day considering the post, I realized it was just the flip side of experience. 

How it is gained.

By learning. By watching. By doing. And as discussed yesterday, the more you can learn by others trials, the less errors you are likely to make...theoretically.

Helping the lives of others, especially regarding spiritual matters in light of eternity and trial by error is risky. God's guidance is paramount and His grace, a requirement in these circumstances.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray in particular for those relatively new to pastoralship. Pray for a willingness to learn from wise and effective pastors. Pray for a guarding of their hearts and minds. May they not be easily distracted nor discouraged from the task at hand and the ministry to which they are called. Pray for a great anointing upon their lives and a greater grace as they grow to serve their circles of influence. 

-PNC

Sunday mornings are amazing.  For early in the morning, as another week has passed, a new one is about to start and in the middle of it all, is trying to figure out "what's next". First though, and more importantly, why is the song that matches the title of this post playing in my head?

I'm going to need help. You are going to need help. Your parent, your brother, your sister, your teenager, your baby, your boss, your neighbor, your worst nightmare...and the person at church you wish attended church somewhere else. I know I don't have that person, I hope I'm not someone else' wish and I know none of you have or are that person...we've just heard or seen of others having them, right?(smile...Sunday morning humor)

Thank God for great friends; especially those who can help carry some of the support offered by great family. Thank God for great friends who are incredibly closer than some family (a sad state of affairs to have to live out in reality) Thank God for great friends who become, in essence, family. To add God to these relationships, brings a whole other dynamic...of comradeship, of brother and sister-hood, of parental or grand-parental influences, perhaps never before existed in one's life...the miraculous can occur in every realm and situation of life.

This is an effective church. A church that figures out how to do it efficiently will find itself becoming all the more effective in building community. In return, the community they build will reach the community in which they work, play and reside. Who knows what you are missing by not being engaged in church.  Even if you don't know what to do, expect or where to begin. It all starts with where you stand with God..an area with which a healthy church can help.

On this #effectiveSunday, thank God for the body of Christ. Thank God for people who love Him, and as my church always says, "Lives to serve. God. Others". Pray for this to be the essential mission of all churches. May the body of Christ take hold what Christ essentially established as the two greatest commandments. Pray for those in difficult places; that the church would surround them, as incredible friends; as incredible family. And for those with challenging or no church experience; pray by the power of the Holy Spirit, they would be drawn, directed and guided, into a healthy church. Pray the church be active in the process, not just waiting for someone to enter the front door.

-PNC

September is in full swing. Kids are back in school. Perhaps you've started a new job...in the process, a move has taken place. 

Season of change are occurring. The weather can't make up it's mind...at least where I'm standing and as our environment changes, there should be an awareness of the impact we will make on our new surroundings.

As discussed in previous posts...it all starts with an awareness. That in and of itself, is a conscious, daily decision to be engaged in life, followed by a willingness to be ready to act on what has come to your attention through that awareness.  I think we're gonna need help.

On this #communitySaturday, pray over the changes that may be occurring in your life or that of someone you know..  Continue to pray for an increased awareness of the community, whether it's a new school, new job, new residence...perhaps in the midst of all of it, a new church is being sought. Pray that as opportunities appear, the church would be both ready and willing to engage, where assistance may be needed. Moves are both stressful, yet exciting; but in the middle of it all, pray that God not doesn't get lost in the places of transition, nor our ability to bring glory and honor to Him through the changes in this experience we call life.

-PNC

I was going to extend the prayer on ideology to the people groups who are the subject of missions, when it occurred to me, perhaps I should write a 9-1-1 memorial post.

Moments later, the light switch flipped.

9/11 was the competition of ideology. A message of hope, attacked by a mission to destroy, resulting in a greater resolve to share hope.

The message remains strong...as does the mission to destroy it. It's not ideologies upon which we must stand strong, but the Word of God. The truth wins in all situations. Lies, deceit and confusion lead to calloused and closed hearts. For those individuals, the miraculous, super-natural power of the message of hope, grace and forgiveness of the cross of Jesus Christ is the only message that needs to be broadcast; where its within earshot of the people on the other side of your property line or within earshot of those on the other of side of a nations' property line.

A greater resolve to share the message of God; that His Love Wins.

On this #missionsFriday, pray for the church and those on the mission field, for a greater resolve for the cause of Christ. May our trust be in Him as we pray that we won't grow weary in well-doing. Pray for strength and wisdom in navigating a society growing more concerned with"doing right in their own eyes". Pray for the miraculous softening of calloused and closed hearts; that healing and understanding and clarity will come to their life; that grace and forgiveness and restoration are still available and that the plan and purpose for their life, for the glory of God remains possible. May we all, turn from our wicked ways, acknowledge Him, receive forgiveness and experience hope. May the love of Christ win against that which was meant to destroy. We speak Life. Life to America. Life to a lost world, in need of One, True Savior. The person of Jesus Christ.


-PNC

Diversity is great. Differences of opinion. It happens. Shared experiences. They help. Sharing past experiences. Here comes understanding your perspective.

In the midst of all of this, are environments the people of whom live in them call "culture". Mode of operation.

Yet, what happens when competing ideologies can't see past their own? Gridlock. The conversations take place, but it's rare that one truly sees the basis of the other argument, by which they can build upon, to the point that they can shed light on the truth and 'bring someone over' if you will.

The political arena is full of this right now. Gridlock. And how many minds are being "converted" by either side?

What's all this have to do with the church? Plenty, if this situation plays out amidst deacons and board members when it comes to church direction and vision and to greater extent when the church needs to reexamine it's approach to society as it moves further away from God destined for His creation.

Gridlock will damage your ministry as much as it will mess up your ride, if you aren't paying attention and are keenly aware of what transpires around you. Church shouldn't be full of "yes" people, but there needs to be a spirit of unity. You don't need to look any further than politics to see that nobody likes to be around people who are intentionally divisive. For those who do, chaos soon follows.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for a spirit of unity. Pray that chaos does not lead to the enemy's game of divide and conquer. Pray for men and woman who will seek God and His direction for ministry rather than public opinion or selfish motives. Pray that peoples' experiences and perspectives will provide insight for potential improvements within ministry rather than personal stands that may cause a stumbling block for those around them. Pray the churches continue to be people who seek the kingdom & righteousness of God, not their own status, righteousness or ideological framework. Pray for discernment, to know when to let God take care of converting hearts and minds, in His time, for His purpose, to His glory.

-PNC

Kids...they don't always know what they're doing. And you can't always get upset. There do exist times when the situation in which you find yourself truly is the result of innocence. In a day and age where it's easy to respond quickly in frustration, such times can be challenging. Like the voice of reason with his hand on your chest....just breathe.

Ironically, the lesson to be learned is probably just as much for the adult as it is for the child...if not to a greater extent.

(A lesson which will probably come to me later...or you, as it were)

If such moments exist for the man with one kid, maybe two...maybe just his own, whatever they number; our thoughts and prayers go forth on behalf of pastors who deal with our kids and our teens. If we as parents need God's help, you need His blessing and anointing!

*lesson just learned.  Wanna know what it is?

Just Breathe.

Pray on this #youthPastorWednesday, for a calm, voice of reason in the circumstances they face. Pray for clarity of thought as they process situations and provide counsel. Pray for a renewed ability to breathe; to release frustration; to trust in God; to keep proper perspective for even the simplest of situations. Pray an increased blessing upon their lives, homes and families and a "double portion" anointing over their ministry.

-PNC

Save for the transforming power of Christ, the results of ministry are usually not immediately noticeable. Spiritual growth takes time. Turn-around in marriages and relationships take time. Discipleship takes time. Church growth and impacting a community for Christ...lots of time.

While they labor not in vain, the wait, the process, the work...in a results-oriented society, staying focused, determined and on track can be challenging. It's certainly something to which many can relate, as other positions and industry have long cycles, where projected "completion times" are well in front of us on the calendar.

However, the process of becoming more like Christ is not a long cycle process, but a life cycle process. Thus, it requires a lifetime of commitment and faithful service to that process.

Ministry is a calling. Ministry requires an anointing. Ministry needs people who will neither quit on God, nor give up on the people they service. An unrelenting faith in God. An unending hope in the people. Anxiously awaiting a life-transforming result.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for a renewed sense of commitment to the ministry. Pray for a refreshed anointing in their place of service. Pray for a strengthening of stamina; that energy levels be restored, that emotions and mental capacities would be fortified. Pray for excitement and enthusiasm to return to their work; that it would be contagious to their congregations and overflow into their communities.

-PNC

One thing troubles me about church effectiveness & efficiency...in 2015 everyone thinks they know Scripture and can pull a verse to support their argument.

Sadly, people in the church do it just as much as those not in church.

It occurred to me yesterday, that those not in church, at least a large portion of them, don't know the context of Scripture; statements made by the apostles that references the prophets, cultural scenarios that require understanding, religious matters of the day with which Christ had a problem. Conversely, many in the church are missing a similar contextual understanding of God's Word to accurately defend it. (as I consider the incrible list of believers who understand significantly more than what I have gleaned.) 

The Bible is the framework, the life and the legacy of the God of the Universe.

The Bible is the story of a fallen angel whose act of revenge towards God is to turn His own creation against Him.

The Bible is the experience of God's involvement in the affairs of man, planting His plans and purposes in their hearts, in hopes they would pursue Him and fulfill the calling He had placed on their lives.

The Bible is the opportunity of an historic rescue for all who call on the name of the Lord and a tragic, heart-breaking tale for those who utilize their free-will to reject the very Being who gave them said will.

Should that fallen angel succeed in getting all of God's creation to ignore those four statements and focus on arguing any of the issues that make the headlines in 2015...

We all are running out of time. We don't have time for hypocrisy, nor debate who is or isn't. s

Nobody is perfect in this world. We are all sinners. The only difference is that some have accepted the truth of who we are, acknowledged the truth of who God is and acted upon the decision He has offered. It's available to all, but each must choose on his or his own.

On this #effectiveSunday, thank God for the power of the Holy Spirit, who intercedes on our behalf when we don't know how to pray. Pray for the church to grow in their understanding of God and His Word, that they be prepared to properly shed light on the Light of the World. Pray that words be not argumentative and demeaning, but out of genuine concern to bring understanding of the truth of Gods Word to those around them. May we let God do His part, of drawing, prompting, convicting, forgiving and redeeming. Pray God help us, in properly loving, sharing and helping those He has placed in our lives to reach for His glory.

God loved the world so much that He gave His son!
Pray His creation not love the world so much that they reject His Son.

-PNC

We understand the concept of shared ideas. We understand the importance of passing our knowledge and wisdom to the "next generation". We understand, usually in business, the process of "replicating" ourselves...passing along tools, practices and strategies to that more gets done, than we could do on our own, while ensuring those we empower will be just as effective, because they what it takes and they have what they need to get it done.

Yet, in our personal lives, are we setting out to implement this practice. Do we actively seek someone in whom we can invest in their life? The investment could transform their life for the rest of their time here on earth.

Life lessons are often learned after having done the wrong thing, the wrong way for a longer period of time than we care to admit. Then at some point, you recognize someone living their life in a pattern that looks strikingly similar. Like looking in the mirror. If you've ever wished  that someone had helped you and saved an infinite amount of time, energy and resources which brought no results, than you have something to share...and it's mostly likely with someone you know, frustrated with life and making the same wish.

Pray on this #communitySaturday, that as the church engages community, that we would seek those with whom we could share the truth. Pray that the church would have an awareness of those whose lives, families, finances, marriages and careers are in trouble. May the church not only look for opportunities, but create opportunities, in which they could begin to share and learn, whereby the investment would begin. Pray that we seek to make a positive impact for the glory of God.May our investment in the lives of those around us change lives and that it would not be a process that is done once, but that it repeats, and the one in which we invest finds one that they will invest...

...lives making lifetime commitments to invest in the lives of others. For the kingdom of God. For His glory. For eternity.

-PNC