Pastor has posted the question before and it came up once again, during this mornings' service.

How do you know when you are servant?

When you get treated like one!

Christ offered a seemingly backward model for us, in Scripture. He who wants to be greatest among you, must be servant. Similarly, he who wants to be first, must be last and servant of all.

For those who like decision making, this can be challenging. For the one who constantly thinks they have a better way to go about a task, the relinquish can be difficult. There's a lot to be said on the valley of decision, when the responsibility and the expectation to act lie with you. (and  much has been said). But leadership that takes in a 360-degree perspective; goes beyond themselves, consider the impact on others; the costs; the demands...

... for the one who steps out into what God has called them to, even when it goes against conventional wisdom; when they recognize, that while they lead, God is able to accomplish so much more when they step aside to His will; then God is able to work the miraculous, above and beyond what we can ask or imagine.

It goes contrary to what is taught on leadership these days, when it comes organization development as busin
But then again, what within the kingdom and economy of God is consistent with the world system, in the first place?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors to have the mindset of servanthood and the attitude of humility as they lead staff and congregations into great relationship with God. May the decisions they make be led of the Spirit, aligned with the will of God and biblically-sound, where warranted. May they not rely on previous experiences or direction (such as Moses did),  but trust daily, for God's direction, as the display Godly leadership through Christ' example of a humble servant; willing to set aside their will in order to know and hear the will of Gd

For the glory of God. His will accomplished as His servants care after the affairs of men.

- PNC

Over the past few weeks, we've prayed a few times for associate pastors who were considering the transition to senior or lead pastor, within a church hierarchy. Most recently, I did have a real life situation that prompted this being a focus of prayer for the Bring Me 70 community.

Now, knowing that this transition is taking place, a detail in the story prompts this aspect of our prayer focus today. When my friends stepped in to candidate for this Senior Pastor position, the church overwhelming responded in favor of them. And I immediately recalled what our Senior Pastor shared when he announced this process was taking place... advice that he was passing along, having heard it many years before, that was given to his father, as a young pastor:

When you candidate for a church, you'll know very quickly, a sense of the Spirit, as to whether it's the place God would have you to be or whether you should wait for what's next. And just that quick... here was a favorable response to my friend, in overwhelming support.

It just goes to show, the importance, of how much both a pastoral candidate and a seeking church need to be in prayer and Godly counsel as to who God would have placed in positions of ministerial leadership and pastoral office.

What if the church was so desperate, they just picked the 1st person that came into the picture. What if they were so tired of waiting, they settled on less than what God had for them? This isn't case with my friend, but what if they were so ready for a change, they took a church that was not a good fit. What if impatience got the best of them and the rushed the decision?

Disaster for both parties. A ministry ruined. A church crushed. A witness in the community blotched. A family uprooted and relocated, unnecessarily. A congregation neglected and left feeling abandoned because those in charge made some bad calls and plays.

Plus... let's face the reality of life for a moment. A transition in church leadership as a pastor moves to what God has planned for them, means the church they depart now faces that same transition process! Corporations go through the same thing, but somehow hiring and firing in ministry feels like human resources on spiritual steroids. At least it would to me. Such decisions would keep me up at night, long hours and days after I had drenched and doused them in prayer.

Perhaps I'm hitting too close to home as you read this. But life is real. So is ministry. And just like the secular marketplace makes decisions that are best for the company and sometimes  people get hurt; so to, churches face similar challenges. What's best for the church, the protection of congregation, the integrity of the faith... and yes, the soul of the individual. It's all the more reason to pray regarding this element of church life. Which we're starting now.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for churches that are some place of transition, be it with pastors, deacons or positions of staff members. Pray for divine wisdom and revelation, that pastors are placed in right churches, congregations and communities... not because one is better in nature or in the offer, but because it's God's will and perfect plan, that they be placed where they are for such a time as this. Pray for direction in the management of the human resources element of church life; for wisdom in handling situations that need to be dealt with, while still expressing, the compassion and love of Christ throughout the conversation. May churches know the decision God would have them to make for their ministry, as much as the pastor would know the will of God is for their calling. Pray for a peace that surpasses all understanding; regardless of the outcome... even when there is no understanding to be found.

May God be glorified.... even in the most difficult of decisions and the most agonizing of processes.

- PNC                                                                                        

It occurred to me, late yesterday evening (kids bedtime, give or take a few minutes) just how potentially difficult of a time, the week leading up to Easter can be for some pastors. Yes, it's absolutely a time to reflect on the powerful sacrifice of the Christ on the cross and the miraculous redemption available through His resurrection. I heard it explained in yesterday mornings' service, that the 3 hours of darkness was Christ, taking the sin upon the world. Everything went dark, because God, Father of Light, has nothing to do with darkness, hence Christ feeling forsaken... for indeed, the 3 hours was the transaction of salvation. Christ was not a sinner... He became sin. What an incredible analogy.

Yet leading up to that... we see the frailty and failure of men, who lost the courage of their conviction when the pressure got to be too much. All the disciples scattered. Judas sold his soul. So much was his angst with self, that he took his life. Peter, who three times expressed his love for Christ, later "walked back his words", as he denied Christ three times. Even after all he accomplished for the kingdom of God through his ministry, so much was his frustration with himself, he considered himself not worthy to die in the same manner as his Lord. So his request to be crucified: inverted, was granted.

No matter the accomplishments, accolades, and impact of a pastor, there can and often is, a very personal, very internal battle in the spirit... for all the situations, conversations and relationships that they wish would have turned out differently. That was perhaps in their control, to respond more appropriately. To commit to greater amounts of prayer and counsel before making a decision. To follow and obey the promptings of the Holy Spirit more frequently, but instead, dismissed them with justifiable reasons... perhaps even valid ones, at that.

Remembering what Christ did for us is great. Necessary. Beneficial. Empowering.

Remembering what we've done that prompted a need for Christ to do what He did... frustrating, agonizing, disappointing, emotionally-crushing, mentally-taxing, spiritually-damaging.

We certainly don't have our act so together, that we could prevent ourselves from needing Christ in the first place. Ultimately sin is sin; only humanity assigns degrees, as if it matters. It's binary.

But Judas' and Peters' failures somehow seem worse than the other disciples' failure of simply being nowhere to be found. In the end, they all left... for a season. For whatever reason. But they came back. Redemption offered. Grace empowered. And they did more for the kingdom after Christ, than they did while they were with Him.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling with their faults and failures; whether in ministry or personally, as we enter this Passion week. Pray they be strengthened and encouraged, that God is not done with them yet. May they sense and know, that no matter what the situations are, that they should have handled differently, that God is able to heal and restore and refresh their minds and spirits. Pray for guidance and healing for such situations... for the miraculous to occur in their lives, relationships and ministries. May the transaction of redemption be made real in their lives... that forgiveness is available for all, extended to all and Christ is hopeful, that all would accept... His love, grace, healing and redemption.  No matter what the degrees of sin may be, that we have assigned. Christ took it all upon Himself, that nothing may separate us from the love of God.

New creations in Christ. No longer known by our faults... now known as Forgiven.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

On more than one occasion in the past couple months, usually regarding associate pastors, we 've prayed for associates looking to move up the pastoral ladder, tracking opportunities for what's next in their ministerial career. Yet like any other advancement, it comes from having a solid foundation of faith and a skill set that builds confidence that they can reasonable do the job. Of course, for ministry purposes, it helps greatly that theirs an anointing and calling to another place or rise in ministry.

It's been said by many, that a mark of great leadership is the ability to reproduce more leaders. It was a reminder yesterday morning. It's one thing to reproduce another leader. Its entirely another to establish a track record and develop a pattern of multiplying leaders. If Jesus thought it important to mention the return on investment of two people working together on something, how much greater the return to have multiple leaders taking responsibility over larger areas of work, to accomplish that much more for their efforts.

It helps, that for the aspiring leader, there should be a desire to accomplish much and a willingness to go out and make it happen, in spite of the unknown outcomes. Consider these words from leadership guru, John Maxwell....

"Potential leaders come to you to offer help more often than you go to them to give guidance."

Ministry is, in fact, a team effort. There is no getting around it.  A well-cast vision. A well-thought out plan. A whole-hearted passion. A long-lasting commitment. A willingness to change something that might not be working. An ability to recognize who should be handing what and the time and place they should do so. If such elements are the building blocks to the success of an organization set on building the greatest widget known to mankind; how much more needed when dealing with souls of humanity in light of eternity?!

John Maxwell explains it this way:

The Wrong Person in the Wrong Place = Regression.
The Wrong Person in the Right Place = Frustration.
The Right Person in the Wrong Place = Confusion.
The Right Person in the Right Place = Progression.
The Right People in the Right Places = Multiplication.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday,  for pastors as they work to invest in the lives of the leaders and potential leaders within their ministry. Pray for a strength and wisdom to what to impart that will bring knowledge, understanding and growth to the health and success of the receiver. Pray for those pastors struggling to discern and know how they should go about mentoring and developing upcoming leadership within their ministry... that they do recognize and place the right people in right positions. May those aspiring to lead, be people that desire to help before or rather than guidance is given. May pastors not burn out from regression and frustration. May future leaders not stall out because of confusion.  God help in the placement of pastors and church leaders; that churches would witness progression and multiplication.

May the future generations of the church continue to build on the firm foundation of faith already laid, by men & women who remained close to God and properly invested in people.

For your glory. For the advancement of the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I continue to be amazed at God's timing... particularly, circumstances and moments in time that have transpired as it relates in light of what is being posted on this site.

Yesterday, we prayed about reactions, in regards to the temptation of comparison and the effect it can have on us. Then yesterday, during the offertory of the morning service, they played a video of people sharing via, cards, the struggle they had come out of... with the song Redeemed, as performed by Big Daddy Weave.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzGAYNKDyIU)

One of the interestingly timed moments... the line "God's not done with me yet"

It simply amazes me how and what God uses to communicate His love and plan for our lives. The people whose paths cross and the words that are exchanged will indeed be considered moments of impact.

Some moments will obviously make a greater impact and a large part of that comes from the words we use.

Consider how many statements were made by Christ that have significantly greater meaning in the original Greek than what is translated into English. We just can't accurately convey at times, the depth of the moment as succinctly. It really is a shame, at times.

However, that shouldn't hinder us from careful considering the words we do choose, regardless of whether we are the initiator of a conversation or the responder. I had to add quotation marks to the title, because even after salvation, it's entirely possible, in our humanness, to use some choice words in expressing our feelings regarding circumstances.

Yet, as I stated yesterday and God confirmed through a moment in service, God continues to work in our hearts and lives, each day, making us more like Him... as we daily acknowledge this life is not our own nor can we rely on our own strength and ability to live each day hoping to bring glory to Him.

What words is God using to speak into your life?
What words are you using to speak into others' lives?

You can give people a piece of your mind or you can give them a piece of a heart; your heart, that has been transformed by the power and the love of Jesus Christ.... whose words on the cross was an active, repetitious, "Father, forgive them for they know now what they do." It wasn't just for the people standing there 2000 years ago... but an application for all man's wrong-doings that would follow.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for the words they deliver. In their sermons. In their meetings. In their conversations. Whether with the leaders of the community or the unknown of the community, may they daily express the love and the power of God; His forgiveness; His plans and purposes for each and every life. Pray that both the ministry and the home would bring glory and honor to God... through their conduct and their conversation. May their be a steadfast consistency about their lives, not that people would look at as "good for them", but that would point people to the cross of Christ... whose words of redemption are just as impactful and meaningful for today as they were for those who held the spikes and hammers that day.

God... gives us the words, just as you gave us your Word. For your glory. For your honor.

- PNC

While closing out a series on spiritual fitness yesterday morning, on the exercises of evangelism & hospitality, Pastor relayed two stories, that upon hearing them, I felt God confirm clearly... there's your #seniorPastorMonday prayer.

Pastor Martin Niemöller, who once had close ties with Hitler, but later led other pastors and religious leaders in a resistance against him shared a great regret. For those who don't recognize the name, Niemöller is known for the following quote:

"First they came for the communists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a communist. Then they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a socialist. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a trade unionist; Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak out for me." - Martin Niemöller

His regret however, he shared after having a dream. Hitler standing before God on judgement day. His response for not accepting Christ as Lord & Savior, "Nobody ever told me." Meanwhile, in real life, Martin Niemöller had once sat with Hitler at a dinner party. He talked about trivial matters, rather than sharing his testimony of what Christ had done in his life and the difference Jesus could make in Hitler.

Switch gears to Gandhi.  Known for this quote:

'I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." - Mahatma Gandhi

However, Gandhi was serious about Christ. At least, seriously considering Christ. The quote however, the after effect, of Gandhi visiting a Christian church in the mountains of India. Upon entering the church, a British usher told Gandhi he was not welcome; not being the person of prominence and socioeconomic status that that church catered to during the time of the caste-system structure of India at the time.

How different our world would be...had a pastor witnessed to a political force to be reckoned with.
How different a country 4x the size of the United States would be... had an usher welcomed an unknown visitor to sit and hear.

What greater stories convey and stress the importance for balanced, focused pastors with well-grounded ministry?
What greater stories convey and stress the importance for spiritually healthy, spiritually mature congregations?

Consider the alternatives. The story of the Sunday School teacher who led D.L. Moody to Christ. The salvations that followed, leading up to Billy Graham coming to Christ. And so many, many more. Like Jerry McAuley, a former convict who accepted Christ upon hearing the testimony from a friend. McAuley founded America's first rescue mission, McAuley's Water Street Mission. Today, it's known as New York City Rescue Mission. The great Fanny Crosby helped the people that mission served, in one of Manhattan's worst slums.

What potential is being withheld in kingdom of God because the people of God aren't being like Christ as the world expects?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday... God help us, the church, and our Pastors, when we fail to portray Christ accurately and effectively. May God help us to speak the truth of the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Pray we have ears that listen to peoples stories; that like Christ, we would meet their need by knowing what it is and what can be done about it. Whether a Pastor or parishioner, may we not be afraid to share, the story of how Christ has impacted us. May we not be found so busy leading and doing church, that we forget to be the church.

May we remember the advice of Fanny Crosby; that we would keep this in mind at all times:
"You can't save a man by telling him of his sins. He knows them already. Tell him there is pardon and love waiting for him. Win his confidence and make him understand that you believe in him, and never give him up!" - Fanny Crosby

- PNC

For the past couple of weeks, I've read the following the statement a few times online, through a couple of other ministry sites, in addition to, having heard it in real life over the same period of time. I think I even included once or twice in a previous post as well, but it bears repeating.

Healthy churches are made up of healthy people.

I heard it again, even over the weekend, but the part that really got me thinking was the statement:

Some are born again. Some are born against.

A play on words to be sure, as the transforming power of salvation is to bring us in to right relationship with God whereby our first concern begins to be more of God and less of us.

That said, some people, both save and unsaved, are "disrupters". There's a time and place to do so. Differing opinions, strategies that consider all-sides of an argument; weighing possible outcomes to a variety of scenarios in an effort to make the best decision and take the wisest course of action.

But for some; that's their role in every conversation. In every circumstance. There's a difference between working out differences and focusing on the differences to the point and hope of not reaching decisions versus making life difficult and giving voice to thought as one expresses their frustration to the degree that others begin to share it and take it on as their own.

The body of Christ will always have difference among us, but when our ideas begin to get in the way of the work that God desires to accomplish; that's a disruption that carries eternal consequences. It harms the witness and work of the church.

It's bad enough when it's unintended and accidental; it's problematic when it happens on purpose

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that churches would experience a spirit of unity and harmony, in a greater dimension. May their be a grace as differences are worked out, but may the power of the Holy Spirit work to remind all of believers that the we are meant to build each other up in Christ and point the unsaved to Christ... not destroy each other and the turn the unsaved into uninterested at the same time. Pray, that indeed, more churches would become healthy as their people become healthy, maturing in their faith; growing in the walk with God. May God be lifted up, as we remember again, we are not our own... we were created by God, redeemed by God and granted access to God through the sacrifice of Jesus Christ.

May our lives be about Christ.
May we show that to be true to those around us who desperately need to experience God for themselves.
May God's will be made perfect in our imperfections.
United... all for God and God for us, all.

- PNC

Two Sundays in a row now, my Pastor has cut his sermon short and moved to a time of prayer at the altar.

Why? you ask. Something wrong with the message?

Nothing. In fact, they were both so "on point" you really wanted him to continue; it was that good of a message.

He cut them short, because he recognized what he prays at the opening of every message. "God, people didn't come to hear (his name here), they came to hear a word from You."

It's easy to go to church and get "caught up" in the personality and the dynamics of the pastor and the service at large. And it's tempting for the pastor to do the same.

But one that knows and understands that its God who moves on the hearts and lives of man and not the oratory skill of the finite mind, has a greater chance to experience moments such as this.

It's a matter of awareness. And the timing was perfect, as God does. People responded... not to a man; but to the work of God through the power of the Holy Spirit. It was an incredible moment....two Sundays in a row; that would have been missed had a pastor focused more on completing his message than hearing the direction and prompting of the Spirit.

All too often, it's easy to get caught up in position. For the one who holds it, the one who aspires to it, the one who looks up to it. If all three don't recognize it's the work of the Holy Spirit to accomplish the plans and purpose of God and not the position itself, the experience changes. Drastically.

A pastor out of tune will be as frustrating to listen to as is one's favorite instrument or radio station. Maybe it won't be that bad initially and you'll bear through it for a while, but spiritual maturity somewhere along the way will recognize something is amiss.

That's when all sorts of trouble can begin.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that trouble never begins. Pray that would pastors, in number and maturity, would increase in their awareness of the promptings of the Holy Spirit... for the power of God to work in spite of them if He can't work through them. Pray for a humbleness in pastors... may they always be willing participants, to prefer to be worked through. May their be a keen sense to the time and the place and message that God has... not a "one-size fits all" sermon or a "canned" speech as though it were an entirely different audience every week. May God do the miraculous in the lives of His church and His people, as pastors recognize their position and do their part to remain tuned-in to Heaven and in-step with their own walk with God.

Strengthen the faith of our Pastors, today. Ready. Willing. Able. For all that God is in store for their lives and their ministry.
For the cause of Jesus Christ, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Properly tuned for His glory.

- PNC

I received what I believe to be a confirmation from God, that the purpose of Bring Me 70 is on it's way to becoming a reality. During Sunday mornings' sermon, Pastor talked about the power of the spiritual discipline of prayer.  And not just praying for blessing, provision or healing which are noble... just not perhaps noteworthy.

The difference? When someone shares an experience of blessing, they offer details. Provision? You have to hear how desperate my situation was, then something amazing happened. Healing?  Oh it was no big deal. I'm fine now. Said no one, ever. Details! We want to know what happened!!

Then we pray... in generalities. Yet, we have in our mind specific outcomes. How can we pray for anything in general, whilst having detailed expectations, but are then frustrated when situations seem unanswered because of how they appear.

God is all about detail. Look up what happens to planet earth  if we were any closer to or further from the sun. Spun slower or faster in our rotation.

As I thought about this yesterday afternoon, it was followed by a scene from the movie Facing The Giants. An older man, roaming the halls of a Christian school prays over the students as he passes by each locker...praying for revival. In a brief conversation in which the man speaks life and encouragement to the frustrated football coach, the man shares the story of two farmers.

They both prayed for rain, as they were in desperate need. However, while waiting for rain, one farmer went out and prepared his field; planted his crop. Which do you think was ready for their expected answer to prayer?

Pray with a specific outcome in mind. Work in a way to maximize the answer when it arrives

I have nothing, if I post every day, "Lord, help pastors to not burnout in their ministry." Thanks for joining with me to pray specifically for pastors and church leaders to continue in the calling God has placed upon their lives.

So, pray...specifically! On this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors literally on the verge of burnout. May God supernaturally intervene in their lives with encouragement and support. While a number of factors are probably in play, pray for resolution to the dominate situation that is prompting and driving their desire or decision to leave ministry. Pray God begin to rollback the stress and tension that is upsetting their heart, mind and spirit. Pray for circumstance with their kids and frustrations in marriage that are contributing factors being considered. For the weariness, the anxious and the exhausted...God strengthen and fortify the body and soul. Rest and wellness. Wisdom and wholeness.

Fresh anointing. Fresh vision. Fresh perspective. Fresh passion for the calling of Christ.
By the grace of God. For the glory of God.

- PNC

As Pastor spoke this morning on his latest series regarding spiritual health and exercise, I came to realize an important point that leads to burnout.

When we start neglecting spiritual disciplines, we leave ourselves exposed to spiritual attack. Unprotected and left vulnerable, we might not even realize it has happened, or if we do, it may not even be a conscience decision.

Interestingly enough, he was talking about how much time he spends in the Word, as it was a major point of his sermon. It also was the point we focused on during our Life Group meeting Sunday night.

It turned out to be an incredible night of shared experiences, as we discovered together what problems and potential problems arise when "life happens" and we get more focused on trying to maintain and stay afloat rather than seeking first the things of God and allowing God to take care of the rest.

It also proved to be a great reminder; that the enemy of our sous will find and execute any means necessary to set off a series of attacks that will cause us to react in our flesh instead of resting on the promises of God that are yes and amen to them that believe. He know how to get us frustrated to the point that we go half the day before realize we haven't spent a single minute in prayer. He knows how to get us anxious to the point that we will seek all sorts of outside counsel and advice from experts before we call on the name of the Lord to move on the heart and the mind of one we love.

What fire is being fed? The one that destroys as it wreaks havoc on the landscape of your life? Or the one that brings a level of security, warmth, peace, rest and comfort... for the body, mind and soul?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling to maintain and strengthen their spiritual disciplines. Pray for guarded hearts and minds; that any corrections that need to be made in terms of safeguards would be sorted out in quick and proper manner. May there be a return to the basics; nothing fancy, overly-spiritual or overtly-religious... just a genuine desire to seek first the things of God and a passion to know Him and experience life as He has planned and purposed for us in advance.

May the fire of God never be extinguished in our lives, lest we disgrace and dishonor the work of Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit within us all.

- PNC

We know that God is never late and rarely early. And we understand that our finite minds only see glimpses of the big picture, of situations and circumstances in which we find ourselves. Yet all throughout Scripture, we see God provide ways out and ways through situations that were dire, with one caveat.

Where is our attention focused?

Peter walked on water.. Right until he started  focusing on the storm instead of Christ. Moses raised his hands in worship and the Israelites remained on the winning side of the battle. When he lowered them,, the table of victory turned in favor of the enemy. This happened to the point, that two other men had to come alongside and hold his arms up to remain victorious!

Similarly, the parting of the Red Sea.. arms raised in acknowledgement to God for deliverance. We may not know what might have happened had he lowered his arms then, but clearly, that was the escape route. Failure to obey at the time would have quickly led to their demise.

For the people who forced their way through to get to Jesus...what if they had decided it was too much work and didn't continue to press in beyond the people that stood in the way? And too many other examples.

Life hits hard. And we must ask ourselves... are we focused on the giants in the land? Are we focused on the Creator of all thing and can therefore, intervene in all things?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for the dire and bleak circumstances Pastors face. Whether it's on behalf of someone in the church, something the church faces together or some challenge at home... may they keep their eyes focused on God and their hands raised in worship. May they remain focused on Him and not the storm designed to take them out. May the remain committed to push through the people and things that are in the way in order to draw closer to Christ. May they not miss His perfect timing and will by failing to obey.

All things working together for His good, for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. Even when the forecast is less than desirable. When the outlook is dim. When the impending begins to hinder...just say: JESUS.

- PNC

Pastor started a new series yesterday on spiritual health. It was an incredibly powerful sermon on the subject of obedience, and not just obedience at that, but specifically, "immediate obedience". While there were many quotable statements from the message that stood out and gave pause to reflection and serious consideration, he shared something that stood out regarding pastors and those in ministry.

As he serves on the disciplinary committee for our fellowship, he witnesses first-hand struggling pastors and those who have have fallen in ministry or experienced a moral failure. He shared that in the process of the "one-thing" that impacts their ministry and the consequences of the situation, it's never just the "one-thing". He said that in the process of figuring out what happened and the events leading up to problem, that there are other things in ministry that have gone amiss.

There are patterns of disobedience, where they have gotten off-track, in other areas of ministry.

How does this happen?

Because the "more you listen and obey the voice of God, the more you will hear the voice of God." Conversely, the more you stop listening and obeying, the less your chance of hearing in the future. And like any good parent, who moves on to "the next thing" with their kid who hasn't done the last thing you told them to do or take care of something?

Getting off-track is easy to do. Getting back on seems so hard. Yet staying "on-track" should be pretty straight-forward. You keep your eyes on the track and remain determined and faithful to place whatever safeguards are necessary to help keep you there.

Rarely does "derailment" just happen. There's always warning signs that things are getting unstable and the one who turns off their sensitivity to the Spirit in such matters will be the one derailed. It requires knowing the signs and knowing what to do when you see them that will make the difference as to the outcome of the situation.

Thus, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors to possess and maintain the ability and the perseverance to stay "on-track" with God, their calling and their ministry. Pray for the successful implementation of safeguards in the personal and professional life. May the remain sensitivity to the things of God and the work of the Holy Spirit in their lives...recognizing the signs of where there might be trouble and knowing how to combat them, to ensure they are not "taken out" by patterns of disobedience. May those struggling, regardless of their experience and time in ministry, be strengthened in their mind and fortified in their heart, to daily align and focus themselves to listening and obeying the voice of God; that they may hear in a greater dimension, in the days to follow.

Bringing glory and honor to God and the work He has called them to complete... as He is faithful to do in us, may we too be faithful to do for Him. For the cause of Jesus Christ and the health of His church.

- PNC

Pastor spoke a great sermon yesterday morning as a pre-launch, if you will, on an upcoming series on spiritual health & fitness. It was a great message, with some lines that a couple friends posted on social media later in the day. Yet, as I struggled with a subject for #seniorPastorMonday, it wasn't until late last night that something from the service stood out. We had gotten weather in the middle of the night, rain had frozen, with snow on top, so when it was time for church the roads weren't that great yet.

And it showed... attendance was done. Our church has been debt-free for many years now, and while we rejoice in the Lord for being in such a strong and stable position, it doesn't reduce our reliance on Him to provide the resources to move forward with ministry. That said, the reminder that too many churches aren't in that position leaves many pastors worried about the offering when service comes to a close on such days when the weather plays havoc with church attendance.

It's a struggle that's real... as much as for seasonal business owners (case in point: this is only the second serious snowfall of the season for us, so the snow trucks were rejoicing as they've gotten off easy for the past 5 weeks or so.) But much like business, there's an X-factor to doing business and being prepared for slow and lean days, weeks and seasons. Especially for the ones that are harder to predict, such as the weather.

Ministry and life require funding. It's a basic principle... the more you spend on debt, the less you have to invest. For ministry, the investment is eternal. When you can't do a Christmas program, a VBS, a bus program to help those in the community get around... whatever it is, yes God provides, but He uses people and their resources. Which requires people being wise and obedient with them, so that they are ready to be used by God, as He directs them.

In the meantime, Pastors worry about their ability to stay afloat. And like Peter, it's hard to stay focused on Jesus, when the surrounding storm is unstable. Yet, it is all the more necessary to do so.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling with anxiety and nervous regarding the "numbers" of the church. Pray for a spirit of peace, that God will provide the people and the resources necessary for the body of Christ to move forward in ministry. Pray for wisdom and discernment regarding all church decisions, particularly in the realm of finances. May their trust in God to perform the miraculous be strengthened. May their creativity with regards to stewardship be expanded, in deciding what is most appropriate and effective for their church when money is involved. Pray more churches are able to experience the freedom that comes with zero debt, that they would experience the joy of being able to say "yes" more often to ministry opportunities.

Advancing the cause of Jesus Christ, through wise usage of the world's resources. For the earth, and all that is in it belongs to Him. For the glory of God; fulfilling our purpose by His grace. Laying up treasure in Heaven.

- PNC

Sunday morning, Pastor preaches a message from Hebrews chapter 11. But instead of speaking on the greats of the "Hall of Fame" of faith, he speaks on the four (un)honorable mentions, that the author admits he doesn't have time to discuss at length in this passage of Scripture. Yet despite their flaws, there was something worthy to note, for the history book of all time.

Then last night, I put in a movie as I went to bed and the scene arrives, where a decision is revealed that affects every ones life. And the two to whom the decision is revealed, both sit in awe. The "un-qualifed" saying, are you sure? I'm not ready for this. Meanwhile, the "qualified" is saying, are you sure? She's not ready for this!"

It reminds of a quote, though I can't remember who said it first at the moment:

God doesn't call the qualified; He qualifies the called.

There's so many times in life one feels they are in over their head. Followed by times, where for whatever reason, you feel that you could or should be doing something entirely different than what you are. This becomes especially difficult, if we start looking on external factors... it becomes the movie scene. "I'm not ready for this; it should be them." And the other party; they aren't ready for this, it should be me."

Whatever the case may be, it happens to all of us; even Pastors. Church size, "results" of a message or service, measured by salvations, baptisms or compliments, ministries offered, growth of multiple campuses... just about anything can get in the way of simply doing the ministry one is called to do. It takes prayer to stay focused.

On that note, pray this #seniorPastorMonday for pastors to keep and remain strong, in their ability to keep the main thing, the main thing. May distractions of comparisons not overtake them or distract them for the ministry and purpose God has specifically laid out for them. Pray that their qualifications, experiences and faults not stand in the way of their trusting and seeking God to do the miraculous in their church and community. Pray their personality and ego not become an issue, that they think more highly than they ought, of their abilities in ministry that they are no longer effective. May they stay true to who they are, what they have been called to do and place their trust and humility in God alone; that it is He who accomplishes a great work through our faithful service.

For His glory and the cause of Jesus Christ. The work of the Lord fulfilled through His laborers on earth.

-PNC

“He needed to take a break from ministry and the way our culture is, the culture forbids that. How much do you share? How much grace do people allow?” [furthermore...]

“It’s hard to be honest. It’s difficult for some preachers to be honest. Every pastor needs a pastor to kind of lead and guide them. But it’s hard for us to really find that relationship because often pastors are trying to compete with or cremate you. And so it’s difficult to find camaraderie.” - Dr. E. Dewey Smith Jr., senior pastor at The House of Hope Atlanta, on the suicide of Pastor Teddy Parker  **read article here: Pastor commits suicide while congregation waits

It really is amazing what we have come to in this culture. We desire authenticity and genuine communication and as soon as one replies "If you really want to know..."

No, thanks... I didn't really want to know. And the wall is built. Grace is contingent. So is forgiveness. Love comes with strings. Compliments are based on performance  Feelings towards the sermon depend on the  level of conviction we feel. Tithing, attendance, inviting neighbors and friends, one's desire to get more involved in (or withdraw from) ministry all follow suit.

I really can't get over this tragedy and stress enough, the importance of praying for pastors and churches. This is utterly unacceptable.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for all pastors, struggling with any phase of burnout, from walking away to thoughts of suicide. Pray for the miraculous power of healing and strength to fill them and combat the frustration and loneliness they face. Pray for the families affected who don't know where to turn or who to seek for help. May God be their refuge and strength during these times.

God help us... and this culture that desperately needs to return to you.

In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

-PNC

As our Pastor closed Sunday mornings' service, he gave an altar call for people that were going to be around family and friends in the coming days and weeks who do not have a relationship with God, as well as people who work or live near those who, likewise, need to hear the message of Christ. Pastor then proceeded to say, that He was responding... for the nephew in his family who is away from God; and not just away, but with a multi-generational history of family members who gave their lives to full-time ministry, the nephew is far, far away from God.

He than followed it up with a phrase that perfectly sums up the reasoning behind Bring Me 70 and the need to #pray4pastors.

"No family is exempt."

For whatever reason we think pastors are, they are not. For whatever reason we think they should be, they have never be. For whatever reason we hope they might be, it's never going to happen.

Pastors and their families are neither exempt or immune... to arguments and disagreements, frustrations and challenges, struggles that last for extended periods of time; tragedies of life and the heart-breaking moments of regrettable decisions made by family members they care for deeply.

All of which, sounds exactly like the life of everyone who attends church as well as everyone who has never set foot in church.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for Pastors and their families who have members wanting nothing to do with God and the church. Pray they would be strengthened and encouraged with the hope that God has a plan for them to return, just as the prodigal came to his "what am I doing" realization. Pray for the challenges and difficulties Pastors face on the home front, for the moments of  stress and tension that we all experience and try to work through. May there be a grace about their lives, that would cover them, realizing they don't have to maintain some level of perfection because of their position. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous, as they seek Him and trust Him, anew and afresh, for the prayers that weigh heavy on their heart.

God is greater, than the situations that would seek to take them out and the challenges that are planned to burn them out. May their hearts and minds be fortified as they focus on God and the ministry for which He has called them to carry and fulfill for the kingdom of Heaven. For His glory. For the sake of the cross. Redemption, in the name of the Lord.

-PNC

At our church, Pastor is doing a mini-series this month, on The Miracles of Christmas. Yesterday, he spoke on the birth of John the Baptist and all day, I couldn't get this observation out of my head.

"I"m not sure which is more of a miracle: that Elizabeth gave birth in her old age, or that a preacher remained silent for nine months" - Pastor Brad Trask

Comical as it, I can't help but wonder how so many pastors do so well in bringing the Word of God each after service. I imagine massive amounts of time in prayer. Tons of time in study and preparation. Hours in writing and organizing thoughts to paper.

Plus there's the work and operations of the church to oversee. Vision to cast. People to visit. Herein lies the importance of having great Associate Pastors and other staff and administrative roles filled with people, who in their own right, are doing a great work.

There's a great difference between grabbing the "McNuggets" of the word of God and digging deep for the nuggets of significance and worth within the profound truths of Scripture.

I admire and appreciate the various Pastors, whose churches I have been a part of over the years, who have the incredible ability to consistently, weekly, dig deep within Scripture for application in our lives today. I am also keenly aware, that for many, it probably doesn't come quite so easy and one may never know or fully see how much is being missed or lost for any number of reasons, but could be something as simple as not having a team in place that allows Senior Pastors to focus on the preaching and teaching of the Word. That alone can cause long-term problems and damage.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would help bring balance and assistance to those Pastors struggling with the responsibilities and schedule of church operations. Pray the right people and skill sets would enter the scene where and when they are needed. Pray for a fresh outpouring and anointing of the Spirit during the times of study and preparation that is invested into developing sermons and series of sermons each and every week. May they find the deep riches of truth and the proper context of understanding the Word as well as bringing to light the appropriate application of what God has for us today.

May doubt and fear and the questioning of God not stand in the way of what He would desire to accomplish.

The truth shining brightly from the depths of Scripture. May it be our portion and sustenance to get through each day.
For the glory of God. His unsearchable riches made known to all.

-PNC

There's a Chinese proverb that says:

Those who say it's impossible should not interrupt those doing it.

Yesterday, Pastor started a new holiday series on the Miracles of Christmas and more than 2000 years later, man still replies to what God has stated and simply asks, "How can this be?"

Truer still, our response often times mirrors that of Joseph, where we decide how we will react to a situation until God brings reassurance that everything will work out according to His plan. We simply need to trust in Him and walk accordingly, rather than going about it our way.

*something I needed to be reminded off, even as I just now typed those words!

Man says impossible.
God says I AM.

Impossible is the wrong response for the great I AM.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors facing situations where God needs redirection and reassurance. Pray they would be reminded of the simple truth, that with God, all things are possible to them that believe. May each of us not give way to the temptation to walk in our own understanding, but to acknowledge Him in our all our ways, leaning on His understanding rather than ours and our experience. Pray pastors would be unhindered and unrestrained in their confidence that God is able to perform the miraculous in their lives and in their ministry.

For the glory of God. For the strength of the body of Christ. May God speak LIFE as clearly and boldly He spoke LIGHT.

-PNC

I had the opportunity to watch a sermon last night, by Pastor Brady Boyd, author of Addicted to Busy, in which he preached on this topic at James River Assembly of God, in Springfield, Mo.

He spoke on the example Christ gave us, regarding Sabbath and what was accomplished in His ministry after times of getting alone to pray.

In a society driven to produce faster, better, more long-term results without error, it's hard to be convinced that we can afford to take a break and get away...let alone, entirely disconnect for a time.

Do you want to know how serious this is?

Earlier this year, Mar 4, 2015 to be exact, the Wall Street Journal posted in their blog, that Americans forfeit $52.4 BILLION EVERY YEAR because they won't take time off. The post goes on to share research of the cost to companies for the day they have to start paying out that accumulated vacation time, also a staggering number.

The cost when ministry is involved? Well, before burning out, there's emotional detriment to the family from a lack of personal time. Spiritual deterioration as sermons aren't as well-thought and relevant as needed. Church operations suffer from leadership that doesn't have an effective handle on what is transpiring within the congregation nor the church-at-large.

And downhill life goes. Loss or lack of friends. Family starts falling. Diminished time in the Word. Depleted time in prayer.
Stress moves in. Worry takes over. Burnout knocks at the door.

This #seniorPastorMonday, pray Pastors will recognize the importance of "unplugging". Pray they will be reminded of the importance of Sabbath, of rest. Pray they will not be afraid to step away from the busyness, that they people and the work will wait as they recharge spiritually, emotionally, mentally, socially & physically. Pray they will trust God afresh; relying on Him rather than self, to accomplish the work they have been called. May they not be afraid to call for help. May the not be afraid to reach out to those around them, acknowledging they can't do ministry on their own.

Find rest. Work hard. Have fun. For the glory of God. For the cause of Jesus Christ. Following His example of life and of ministry... disconnecting from all that called for His attention in order that He could call on the Father.

Filled and Renewed. Then poured out for God. Repeatedly.

-PNC