I heard a nationally-syndicated radio host talking about authenticity and what a powerful perspective he offered. Specifically, pseudo-authenticity. The appearance of being authentic kills genuine authenticity. Why? Because eventually people see through it, for what it is. A cover-up. It dilution. The fakes, the frauds, the counterfeits... when people get burned bad enough, and often enough; it destroys the future relationship when genuine care, concern and compassion is shown.

We desire for people to be real; to be authentic. And while we can't always tell the pseudos apart at times, it's important that we have a discerning spirit about such things. At the same time, it's sad that we arrived at a place in our society and culture that we have to have a such a spirit. And so often.

It's really not that hard. Unless you happen to have something in your life that you know you shouldn't share. Perhaps an agenda, that if exposed would be rejected. Or sin that would bring life to a halt, if not ruin. Maybe we just don't like who we are and thus, present a persona that is not true to ourself, let alone true to those around us. Or the world, at-large, for that matter.

Whatever, the reason, pseudo-authenticity is a dangerous presentation to wear. It will cause damage to others, it's a disgrace to yourself and ultimately, is a great disservice to the God who created you with a purpose.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that those who lead the church from the pulpit would live and share a true faith. Pray that fear would not dominate what is said and done. May the factors that contribute to the falsehoods and misleading presentations be removed. Pray for a quiet confidence as pastors live and move in ministry and the calling God has placed upon their lives. Pray for authentic connections and relationships to be built and progress as the church moves forward. May there be a greater impact that is realized, as a result of honesty and truth that is lived out daily, under a covering of grace and an attitude of repentance.

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

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

How do you know when you are excited about you community? You are seriously excited to join your friends for the men's breakfast at 7am on a Saturday morning, only to arrive and 6:58 and find the building dark and the dry, salty parking lot empty. Are you kidding me?? I could have sworn all the announcements said it was today! Nope. Apparently it's next weekend. And I drove off into yet to be seen sunset.

Many people and circumstances cause frustration, anxiety and even fear, about the prospect of coming together and being around "community" in whatever form it takes. And rightly so, perhaps. Personality conflicts. Strong differences in the systems we refer to as beliefs and values. Past turmoils and troubles for which one or many have never healed or recovered.

These are the things that kill community. And ultimately, kill the enthusiasm, such as I possessed this morning, as I drove in the dark while Classic Petra's Back To The Rock album blared through the speakers. (I highly recommend you get the album, by the way)

I submit, quite simply and accurately, that the quality and nature of one's anticipation towards community is a direct result of the people. Conversely, the same is true for everyone else, as they look at the group of which you are a part.

Do you want to experience the power and thrill of a great community?
Determine today that you will contribute positively in making that a part of the culture, in order that others will experience the very thing that you look forward to; much like I was looking forward to breakfast. Fortunately, I didn't miss it. I was just 7 days early. Now I just have to do it again next weekend. And I'll wake up just as excited and enjoy the drive there as well. Perhaps still playing Petra. Then again, the collection around the house is filled with lots of great choices... it's hard to go wrong.

So, let's pray this morning, that each of us would make a great effort to build a great community. One that people look forward to enjoying time and conversation. One in which people look forward to making contribution. Pray that we would continue to speak truth and do so in a spirit of love. May Christ be displayed, even in times of great tragedy, loss and suffering. May the world know there is a God who cares, because the people of God care. Pray that the agendas and biases would stand in the way of the message of the Gospel from going forth in the world, as we live our lives in the communities where God has placed us.

For such a time as this.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It's amazing at certain times of difficult and stress to witness who comes to the forefront to offer some sage and timely advice. And this past week there were numerous instances of such moments, including this phrase...

"Don't die on this hill."

I'd ask you what you are choosing to care about, except I know a handful of things I could re-prioritize.
I'd ask you who you are choosing to influence, except I know I'm not nearly engaged as much as I wish I were.
I'd ask you what is is that bothers and upsets you to the point you would "go the mattresses", except I have my own list I should probably revisit and clean up.

We pick some interesting conversations and even more interesting people and questionable times, in which we choose a subject matter to engage. Not to the point of literal death, but we miss signs and clues as to points of exit. Perhaps continuing the matter is futile. Perhaps there is greater satisfaction in the argument rather than the solution.

Whatever is going on, the list of people and the hill on which they "died" is incredible. Yet, there's only One and one hill that matters to all, for all eternity. Every other cause, every other agenda, every other "hot topic" of the day... they all pail in comparison, not only to what Christ did, but to that which ultimately, He has required of us. Yet how often do we get it wrong, choosing the temporal hill for the eternal hill.

Pray this #missionsFriday, for missionaries and believers who are under great attack and persecution. Pray for strength to endure and faith to remain steadfast. No matter the trouble or trial, may the keep their eyes ever focused on God, confident of their eternal reward. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous through their lives, testimony and ministry. And pray for the rest of the body of Christ. May we choose careful the "hills" upon which we stake our claim and reputation. May we not lose the clarity of purpose and conviction that God has not only brought us to, but called us to do and to be to a lost and dying world.

May the cross of Calvary
Be ever present as we go about our days.
For on that hill
Christ changed eternity.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

You've heard the old adage, 80% of all statistics are made up, on the spot? 80%! Or was it 83.7?

The problem with moving the line in small, incremental changes is that it's harder to notice at times, just how much progress has been made. There are times that this is a good thing... like getting out of debt. Other times, this is not so good. Like not noticing how much you are going into every time you run your credit card at Starbucks in the wee hours of the morning.

There are worse lines to move, though. Like truth. There's a divine reason for boundaries. A purpose beyond what the finite mind sees. So when society and culture starts moving things around that God never intended, we can find ourselves in very dangerous places; in circumstance and position for which we are not prepared.

We can't see or predict everything. But there is a priority and great benefit in being surrounded by those committed to seeking truth, speaking truth and living by truth. Unwavering. Uncompromising. Honest.

In a world that seems to be nothing but the opposite, in nearly every aspect and arena of life, these are days the church (and society for that matter) needs leadership that is above reproach. Which is made even more difficult by a culture that is so quickly offended and even more quick to seek and destroy those who are so bold as to declare their disagreement when the truth is not told and facts are twisted to serve a purpose that does not serve the greater good.

So, pray this #deaconThursday, that the church leadership would be a place of truth, that wavers not and compromises even less. May truth ever be on their lips and in their hearts. Pray for a steadfast-ness, that stands out from those who change the line to fit wherever they may be standing at the time. May they stand before the throne of grace, in need of grace; not defined by failures, but by the fact of God's love. Pray they would live with clarity, bringing wisdom and discernment to a world that is quickly losing both.

For the glory of God
And the benefit of the people of God.
To change the world for eternity.

- PNC

Yesterday's post go me thinking... dangerous, I know. But back on topic. I found myself thinking about the power of "calling out". 

It's a special individual who can see in people, what they don't see in themselves, and call things out. Sometimes, it's calling out an point of correction or area of concern. Other times, it's more of a calling forth moment. Calling forth, that which exists in obscurity, unseen many, but noticed by one. Calling forth that which was dead and speaking life.

How many times do we see this in the life of Christ? With Lazarus, naturally. But with the sick. With the disciples. The woman at the well. And numerous others, in similar moments.

It's a special individual, because it is a special skill. We know not everyone has it, because it seems that we are so profoundly moved when we either experience it in our own lives, or witness it happen in the life of someone else. Yet, if there is any compassion and care with in the family of God or within your own family for that matter, it is a skill and perspective that we should utilize. Put it into practice daily and to good use for eternity.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, God would help each of us, especially those circumstances, ministries and opportunities were we have opportunity to engage in conversation with kids and young people. Pray that God would grant wisdom and discernment as we speak life and truth into their lives. May we speak with as much love and conviction during times of correction as we would during times of support and encouragement. Pray for the power and quickening of the Holy Spirit to call things forth into existence; whether it be something within that has died and needs to be revived or truth that has yet to be revealed to them. May the next generation arise with great purpose, because of the generation that spoke into them with clarity and purpose.

World-changers,
Because their world was changed by God,
And by those who spoke His truth into lives of all ages.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

There's so much of life, the we look at, as cause and effect... in a reactionary way, yes, but in a process. The classic, "if, then" statement.

Then there's the song, So Will I. A truly powerful song, that I reflected on during last nights joint service, when men's and women's ministries comes together once a month with the college/career group.

So Will I talks about the vast greatness of God and puts into perspective what our response to it should be, as we position ourselves in relationship to who God is. And the chorus walks us through several justifications.

If the stars were made to worship, so will...
If everything exists to lift You high...
If the wind goes where you send it...
If creation reveals God's nature...
If Christ gladly chose surrender...

And a number of other similar statements; all as a reminder that while we might have reason for not doing and being as God would have us to be, we have, as the song states, a billion better reasons to do and be what God has called us to be and to do... and to go.

As the service progressed and the men gathered for their session, the long-term youth pastor, now associate pastor, shared some of his story. As a point of detail in the background of his ministry, reluctance to step into a formal, pastoral role. As if the responsibilities didn't "scare" him off, but the title itself. We've prayed before that sometimes titles can stand in the way, to the point that we don't engage or fulfill our purpose at any level.

But even still, sometimes there is just enough that stands in our way that we don't fully engage and take advantage of the opportunity that God would use to an even greater degree and measure than ever thought possible. And the power of the story is that there was one who sat across the table and called it out of him.

Perception. Discernment. Obedience.... to see it and to speak.
And to the hearer... to step forward in it.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that God would do the supernatural, to break the barriers and fears that prevent pastors and would-pastors from stepping into the role and purpose that God has ordained. May God place people in their lives who would see the dream, calling and anointing that God is desiring to reveal and help them to respond in obedience. Pray that reasons to not do something be cast aside, in favor of the eternal reasons that God would have things to be done and courses of action to be taken.

May fear not hold us back from ministry,
But that faith would propel towards a greater impact.

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

- PNC

Some people, you look at in disbelief and consider how they have the nerve. In a confused state of wonder, you ask yourself why they are the way they are, believe a particular way, act, speak and engage in a particular manner. Depending on the person, it's a varying degree of annoying.

Others, you view in similar disbelief and consider their resolve. In an admirable sense of awe, you ask the same questions. And depending on the person, it's a varying degree of inspiration.

You have to admire the resolve of pastors. I don't know how one can't.

In a society where people ask for truth and evidence, but then reject it because they don't think one can set aside their bias and belief and offer objective truth. Of course, what is objective truth when that same society has abandoned the concept of absolute truth.

I can't fathom how often and long the days exist, where they feel as though they are fighting a losing battle. Losing for people who don't heed their advice, value their input, take suggestion courses of action regarding their life and or their faith. A losing battle for the hard-hearted who want nothing to do with God and the hard-minded, who want nothing to do with the church.

Do they know the battle is the Lord's? Absolutely. Does that take away the fatigue, hurt and discouragement that comes from standing on the front lines of faith? Not in the least.

The risk is great. The reward is greater. The days that feel as though the opposite is true? Perhaps too many to count. Dare I say, the pastors who have suffered burnout, could probably mark the day they that they felt the shift begin to take it's toll? Another reality we'd probably rather not acknowledge, but is all to real for certain pastors' existence.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors on the verge of breaking. Pray for those pastors who feel as though they are losing their resolve to continue in the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged. Pray the Lord would lift them up and revive their spirits. Pray that discouragement and frustration, while it may not be removed for from them, would not overwhelm or dampen their spirit. May it deepen their commitment and quicken their desire to accomplish even more.

Staying the course
For the advance of the Gospel
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Effectiveness requires engagement. Retained effectiveness requires sustained engagement.

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

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

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

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

And so, the prayer is quite simple.

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

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

- PNC

 #communitySaturday is going fast!!  And I reflected on yesterday's post, about the things we choose to see with transparent eyes versus that which we block out, for all kinds of reasons, it's important and imperative to remind ourselves this simple point... #truthmatters.

I was reminded of this again, last night, in just how careless people have been in speaking the truth... or less than the truth. Furthermore, not only has the church, pastors and everyday believers at times, ineffectively communicated truth; but those who heard it have misconstrued it.

As a result, given enough time and diversion and we find people out opposite ends of belief, both trying to convince the other that they are "wrong". Nobody likes being wrong, especially in this day of relativism and "everyone wins" mentality. We talk about compromise and coexistence, not realizing that certain things simply don't mix. Like oil and water.

It's a trying time. It's a crucial time. It's a time for clarity in an age of muddied confusion.

How many are ready to speak it?
How many are ready to hear it?

On this #communitySaturday, pray that hearts and minds would be opened. Not to new ideas, perspectives and opinions, but open to the Truth. The truth of God's Word, despite all the times, they may have heard it presented wrong, misunderstood or witnessed its' misapplication. May we ever be awarre the times in which we live; not possessing a spirit of fear for societies repercussions, but a spirit of boldness, that God would accomplish the miraculous as we speak; hopefully under the anointing and direction of the Holy Spirit.

May today be a day of truth.
Of things revealed;
Hearts changed;
Lives transformed.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

**editor's note: if you recognize the title of this post, now I have the urge to go find Newsboy's album Going Public. It's somewhere in my collection.

Three days in and the idea I thought I had for this yesterday has gone missing!! New Year = new level of writer's block?

Let's change gears.

How awesome is the Word of God? Written by man, yes... but, inspired by God. God-Breathed. Under the power and anointing of the Holy Spirit. It should not be added to, neither is anything to be removed from it. So, did the writer's wait on God for every Word? Did they ever, with the stroke of a pen find themselves asking for a divine eraser?

Before we changed gears, trying to recall my idea, I was thinking about transparency. We live in a culture where it's often talked about out and our political leaders praise it's virtue, yet the irony is that the less they share, the more truth they seem to reveal. And where the truth isn't being revealed, our speculations increase.

Compare this to the revealing nature of God. He has revealed more than we can fathom and certainly more than we can explain. And yet there is so much to this life that isn't revealed. And so we wonder what God is doing. We wonder what is happening and why. The places and people involved and the truth of it all evades us. Yet God is truth and thus, if we seek Him, we shall find Him.

There is just so much attack around the world; against the Gospel, the Church, Christians... and the downright truth. His Word is Truth. And as much as we want transparency in our reality, we seem unable to hand the truth of eternity. Yet, missionaries, daily, stand on the front line, handling the eternal truth of the Gospel, dealing with a people desperate to hear, yet not transparent enough with themselves to know they need to receive it. What a delicate, yet troubled balance to walk.

A struggle for worse than writer's block... which oddly enough, seems to have cleared up quite quickly.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for missionaries living in difficult places; not only their physical location, but also, the spiritual, emotional and mental state of being. Pray for those enduring an all-too real persecution and multi-faceted attack against them. May they be strengthened and encouraged by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray that God wound continue to direct their steps and ordain every encounter and conversation; that no matter the circumstance and environment, there would be opportunity to present Christ and speak truth. The one and only Truth, that transforms our reality for all of eternity.

In a clouded existence
May clarity come
To reveal the glory of God.

- PNC

There's a scene on of the many brilliant episodes of The West Wing, where the administration makes a number of changes in the Ambassadorships, as far as the people who hold them are concerned. In the course of the conversation between the President and the Chief of Staff, the President jokingly comments on the changes, that if they continue and everyone keeps moving up, then he can go home!

I know... what's this have to do with pastors on this #deaconThursday?

It's simply a point of reference, as I sat in service over the New Year's weekend at the announcements being made in our own church leadership. Changes within the existing leadership and it literally was a series of three positions, that as the first one moved "up", someone took their place, leaving another vacancy to be filled. The connection made me smile and so I'm sharing it with you. You're welcome.

Of course, as the Pastor shared the back-story and the conversation that began 8-10 months prior to the changes being made; you get a sense of the prayer, wisdom and perception involved as church leadership comes together, seeks the face of God and carries on the conversations of what is God doing for the future of various ministries within the church and who should be casting and leading their future trajectory.

The business world calls it "scaling". Progress isn't a knock on people, resources or capacities. The truth is that every aspect of life reaches a point where the question of "what's next" (another West Wing reference) must be answered. Thus, if changes needed to be made and those will naturally require time and energy, then why not give due diligence to make sure that they are done right and proper?

The question answers itself. If only the prayer wrote itself.

Let's pray, this #deaconThursday, that church leadership would indeed give due diligence to the decisions and changes they are facing and discussing. Pray for an increased awareness and sensitivity to be on the alert for matters and circumstances that have yet to present themselves, but that leadership would benefit in taking a proactive approach. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they seek the face of God and discuss solutions and implement changes. May their be a covering of grace during times of transition and all the more in times of great difficulty and challenge.

For the best days are yet ahead
For those prepared to meet them.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Welcome to 2019.

I trust your new year is off to a great start. And I hope you closed 2018 better than you entered. Or perhaps at least with a better perspective, if through difficult circumstances.

My apologies for the abrupt break in daily posts back in mid-October. While I've tried to keep personal matters from standing in the way of this undertaking, the truth is, I suffered the very thing we pray about daily. My energy level was getting low and for those frequent and consistent readers, you noticed the daily prayers were showing up at the end of the day rather than the start of the day. I was consistently playing catch-up. And that consistent state of engagement while drain you faster than simply entering with fresh energy and maintaining the pace.

What better time is there to do that, than the physical start of a new year. Hence the title.. RE_Boot.

Tomorrow is "back to work" day. And it should come with an accompanying spirit filled with excitement and rejuvenation. Should we not be as excited as the kids are to go back to school? Mine are. Perhaps yours are not. One day in and it's entirely possible you are not liking the prospect of how daunting this year appears. Yet there is a glimmer of hope and encouragement that it just might go better than planned, hoped or expected.

The positive outlook and steadfast hope that we attempt to instill in the lives of our kids from a young age is the very perspective we struggle to maintain on a daily basis, even when our social media pages are filled with memes that remind us that "tomorrow is a new book with 365 blank pages".

So, the question remains, what will God write in our lives this coming year? And more importantly, what will we write into and over the lives of our youth? Am I feeling a year older, thanks to a recent birthday? Yes. Am I ready for my kids to be a year older as well? Absolutely not.

All the more reason, to pray....

... on this #youthPastorWednesday, pray that we would be people who what not allow the troubles and trials of life to take such a toll on us that we pass it on to our kids. While we may fall and fail at various times, may we teach and train them in the process of rising again. May they not be controlled by feelings and emotions as many in today's culture are prone to do; but may they live under the influence and anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pray His presence would fall afresh in our own lives, as we enter the unknown of 2019. Pray that fear would not control our decisions, but that our faith would follow Christ into the ordained destiny that He has purposed for our lives from the foundations of the Earth and Time.

To the New Year:
May it be the best one ever
As directed by the Hand of God
For His glory alone.

- PNC

So, we had a missions-focused dinner last weekend, followed by a small panel during the Sunday service. A simple, engagement of conversation that provided the congregation insight into their lives. Among the many points of discussion where things like calling and direction. Then they closed out the conversation with what they needed in terms of support.

Among the very first answers, if not the first...

Friends.

We've prayed to this end before, across the board, for pastors and church leadership and of course, missions. But to hear it first hand, naturally, reemphasized the importance and power of high-quality relationships. It's especially important in matters and circumstances where stakes are high on a daily basis and the work is, if you'll permit the play on words, "mission critical".

In light of eternity, that's true. And while it may not seem that way on a day-in an day-out basis, missionaries have daily struggles and issues they face as much as anyone else does, if not more. Thus, if we value great friends and quality time and conversation with them in the realm of our comfort zone, how much more is it important for missionaries who have, quite literally, been called out of their comfort zone.

Friends are hard to come by, at least, it seems that way at times. Conversely, if we were honest with ourselves, we couild point to times and seasons where we probably weren't in the best place to show ourselves friendly and thus, the connection was missed. And perhaps the opportunity for the miraculous to occur.

People come and go. Sometimes on purpose. Other times by default. And then there is a distinct and specific parting of ways. But like so much else in life, they begin and end by being and living intentional.

So let's pray this #missionsFriday, for those missionaries who are perhaps lacking in quality friendships, both where they minister and where they receive their support. Pray that God would give them the right connections and conversations to meet their needs, build them up and raise the quality of their life. Pray that God would give the clarity, to know who has come into their lives to be a blessing and encouragement, rather than a source of contention and discouragement. May they have a discerning spirit to know how to meet needs and invest in the lives of those they come in contact with on a daily basis. May God help us, as much as He helps them, that we may each be a better friend; contributing to make the lives of everyone around us better than we found them.

For God has never left us, nor forsaken us.
The great, friend of sinners.

- PNC

I heard another sermon recently which talked about wisdom. And once again, received a painful reminder of the constant struggle of trusting in God and seeking Him rather than trying to figure it out on your own with your solutions, skills and strength.

It's not enough. It's never been enough. It never will be enough.

Let me ask myself the question that many have done for me many times... when will you learn?!

Shall we count the ways and times that I don't heed the words of Matthew?? Seek first His righteousness; His kingdom.

Him.

Neither what we do nor what happens to us is about us. We deceive ourselves that it is and we defend ourselves that it is, but alas, the eternal reality of it all is that is not... about us.

But ideas, words, and decisions do have consequences as much as they have rewards depending on the nature and intent of it all. We don't always remember that that's the case and we don't always enjoy when the fruit of that comes true, but it is, nevertheless true.

The struggle is great and incredibly real, but the necessity to seek the wisdom of God should always be our first and top priority. In all things, great and small.

Pray this #deaconThursday for those struggling to trust and seek God first. May that always be our default understanding and response; even in light of the most stressful and difficult of circumstances. Pray that church leadership would resist both the urge and temptation to talk and work through problems and challenges merely though man's solutions and perspectives. May God grant grace and wisdom as they seek His face in all they do as church and ministry to their congregation and community at large.

For the glory of God alone.

- PNC

There's a problem with a strong sense of self-awareness. Probably a few. And I guess, it's probably not so much a problem as it is, an ongoing struggle of realization, work and growth... repeatedly. 

It's the fact that while we hope and strive to be the best that we can be; not compared to others, but to what we know to do and to be who God has called us to be; yet knowing how badly we miss the mark. Royally miss.

Is it difficult to watch those in positions of influence and leadership fall and fail? Yes. And it's not the stuff that makes national news or spreads church-wide or even that which stays within the four walls of the home.

Goodness does not make perfection. It does however make plenty of room for improvement.

I'm not the greatest dad. Despite my youngest child's continual affirmation that I am... in her heart and mind. Yet, nothing hits harder than the moment where I realize that if I were watching myself from the outside, that "that moment" was not a "best Dad" moment.

And I think we do the same with pastors over every ministry, but especially with youth. The impressionable mind doesn't miss much, despite the parents understanding to the contrary.

"It's trash. You know it's trash. It was in your hand. How did you not throw it away?" (a recent conversation with a kid)

I think part of the appreciation that we find ourselves possessing for great leaders is knowing full well that they understand that greatness did not come overnight. It was a long process and it was significant amount of time and investment towards continual learning and improvement. Indeed, pride does go before a fall and those are the ones we often don't mind remaining low. However, humility is becoming and it's those leaders in which we desire to see overcome and rise again; greater and better than they were before.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that there would indeed be a humility about our lives, as we lead kids and young people, both in the faith and life as pastors at church and spiritual leaders at home. While pastors strive not to fail, pray that more importantly that would strive to never quit. May there be a grace and strength about their lives to walk in humility before God and walk in wisdom before those they lead. Pray that they would not be a source of frustration and struggle to youth, but rather a source of courage and power; that they are not defined by their faults and failures, but by who they are in Christ and what they accomplish for His glory with the talents He has given them and the calling He has placed on them.

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

- PNC

I got to thinking about the people that leaders surround themselves with, on a regular basis. You know this happens from time to time; we've prayed over this type of perspective numerous times, both with regards to associates as well as deacons and staff. What I find powerful, is that true leaders understand that they are not the smartest person in the room.

And while they may acknowledge that they are close to the front of the room; they realize too that they are the only ones... which provides affirmation that, like the rest of those, they still have room to grow, learn and improve. The improvement might be found in their field of expertise and wheelhouse of skills, or it's found in areas that they aren't so strong.

With that understand and perspective in mind then, great leaders are those who recognize the talent and skill of those around them; particularly those who may or may not be in positions of prominence or influence that aren't as "noticed" as much as the ones they themselves hold. It's the hierarchy of titles that we get held up on. Sadly. And frustratingly enough.

Surely, we've all been in positions where we looked at the "leader" above us and wondered what in the world they were thinking about a particular matter. But, like a good parent, great leaders should desire those under their influence, to go farther and achieve greater than what they have done and even yet to do.

Let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday to that end. Pray that associate pastors would continue to grow and strengthen, not only in their faith, but also in their skills. May they be ready and able to take on the responsibilities of ministries and churches as they grow and expand their influence and outreach. Pray for a preparation as God opens doors for the next generation of church planting and expansion. Pray that leadership would not be fearful or intimidated by the knowledge and talent of others in the room; but come alongside to help strengthen, and encourage them to be and do greater things.

For the kingdom of Heaven
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I posted a music video on a social media group page the other day, and while I missed some of the initial comments that followed, from the ones that remained ( I think a few got deleted, it seems), I could pick up that they were talking about when leaders or influencers have a moral failure. For the specifics of this post, they were talking about the band that I posted and the lead vocalist who had fallen.

But among the comments that followed, was one's opinion of how leadership needs to be held to a higher standard (which I agree with) and how they have but one shot in ministry. And that kind of troubled me. As if there is no room for grace. And even less room for restoration.

As I reflected on that mindset, I couldn't help but think of the leaders found in Scripture. If there is no grace, Samson doesn't get one last request to be used to display God's power. David's reign should be over after Bathsheba. Yes, there were great consequences, but today's political climate would require is immediate removal from office. Jonah dies in the fish if his heart does not change. Moses... pick a spot in his story where it should end earlier than it does.

Then there's Peter. Talk about a guy who shouldn't have gotten a second change a ministry. "Deny me before men and I will deny your before my Father in Heaven." Sorry, Peter. GAME OVER.

And yet, grace enters the picture and the process of restoration takes place. And Peter is never the same and obviously, the world is forever changed.

Even today, we discount ourselves and others from ever being eligible for a second chance. There will always be consequences; but God specializes in making beauty from ashes. Even when the ashes are our own doing... or undoing as the case may exist.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those struggling with the failures and mistakes that feel as though they are disqualified. May the Holy Spirit minister to them anew and afresh. Pray for those who dealing with actual consequences and difficult challenges that have threatened their position and influence within the church and community. Prayer for a spirit of repentance and humility; of brokenness before God. May their not be a hardness of heart, but a pouring out of the soul in order that God may work the miraculous. Pray for churches that are going through a healing process as well as the pastors and families that are going through a process of restoration. May grace abound, truth prevail and love conquer all.

For salvation itself is a second chance
As is sanctification as we are refined
By the power of God
And the work of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC

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

Simple impacts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

So, here's my rhetorical question for the day. How many more reminders do we need thanks to the power of social media, to be reminded that someone is always looking. Perhaps you read or heard about the teacher who is now unemployed (I read that she resigned, but now, also saw a piece that she was fired). Either way, it was because of a social media post; an evil suggestion, written in the tone of political retribution with real-life, criminal consequences if someone were to follow through on it.

Whatever your political leaning, things like this are absolute craziness. As adults, we're always reading messages. And for youth and young people... they are always processing messages. They don't catch the sarcasm. They don't always understand the nuance; the satire. They don't always process the funny wrapped up in the truth, nor do they catch the profound that is buried behind the lie.

Communication is challenging enough. The timing of what is said. The understanding of what is not said. The approach matters almost as much as the content. The explanation matters as much as the intent. It's about what is heard as much as it is, what is said.

Communication is not for the faint of heart. Yet it is crucial for our survival. And if our identity and purpose is found in Christ, then it doesn't matter how many messages are shared that are wrong. If the message of God gets delivered wrong, then all other messages pail in comparison when it comes to making a life-changing impact.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would grant wisdom and discernment in the fullness of one's communication, both inside and outside of ministry. Pray that in the crucial moments that matter most; today's youth would understand both the message that God has for their life and the message that is being imparted to them by spiritual leaders and other authority figures in their life. May all of us be careful in choosing our words and the tones in which we speak.

For as ideas have consequences,
So do the messages that stem from them.
May ours reflect and glorify God.

- PNC