Reminders come in all forms. From the glorious and noteworthy, to the nonchalant and matter-of-fact. And somewhere in the mix, is the painful and frustrating.  And what's today's reminder?

Every organization has someone in management, who will not only have an off-day, but when you least expect it, make it known that such is your present environment. Certain personalities, certain circumstances and industries... you can account for such possibilities; you can set a level of realistic expectation. There will be days of certain frustration and potential for problems and emotion And the culture and mood will not be one that someone would want to endure for an extended period of time, whether for hours, days, weeks, or even years.

What's the point? I'm not sure there's a more saddening statement to hear, than one speak aloud, the frustrations of the boss in the workplace and it is being caused by someone within the church leadership or even the pastoral staff.

I really don't know what to offer or say in response. But just consider your own frustration and move it to a church environment. Does it change your perspective of what's going on? More importantly, does it change how you should respond? And it seems as though the disappointment of it all, would rise to another level.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors who are perhaps, unknowingly, creating a frustrating and difficult working environment. Whether it be for personal reasons, ministerial pressures or problems and stresses that they are simply having a hard time managing, pray that God would do a work in their hearts and minds. May He give them solutions where there problems, direction where there is confusion and peace  in the midst of storms. Pray that God would wisdom, for all parties involved, to know how to properly engage and respond, in a manner that glorifies God, honors each other and allows for truth to be spoken with grace and love.

Working together, better.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I got to thinking, as we've been talking about control or rather, our lack of it when it comes to circumstances that reach beyond our understanding and comprehension, that there is a great temptation to hang on to things longer than we should.

We hang on to control, even we know we don't have it (or are losing it)
We hang on to the frustration of a matter.
We hang on to the problem, even as the solution is being implemented.
We take things back with us, when we leave the altar that we just approached with the intent of leaving something there.

I'm smiling, because we all remember the scene with Charlie Brown and Lucy playing football. We often think of God holding the football, and when we go to kick, as Charlie did, Lucy withdrawals the ball....and we fall flat. But perhaps, the opposite is true. We hold control and God says, if you'll let me see what I can do, where I can send it (whether to kick it out of our life or to move us father than we could on our own) and as He comes in, we pull away. Don't take it yet, don't touch it yet, don't kick it... I want to hang on to the matter a bit longer.

While it makes for a great cartoon scene, it also makes for a frustrating reality.

I think this is one of the toughest things for leaders. To know what to hold close, what to hold loosely, what matters enough to justify their time, energy and input and what matters little enough, to allow someone else the opportunity to engage, minister and manage.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would continue to help pastors with their realities and the frustrations that lie therein. Pray for wisdom, to know when to engage and how to respond. Pray they would not attempt to be so in control, that it gives way to pride and ego and becomes a hindrance to the work and Word that you desire to accomplish in both their lives and ministries. Pray that God would give them strength, as they perhaps continue to struggle with some long, drawn-out problems and battles that are long-overdue for solution and resolve.

May God work the miraculous,
As we let go and allow Him
To will and to way His purpose.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

So, I'm thinking about the power of unheard messages. And by that, I mean, that by the time the message actually clicks and you respond, something happens shortly thereafter, that reminds you just how much you should have listened sooner.

I don't know about "all too often", but many times, we know what we need to do or what we need to care of and we put it off. We delay it, prolong it and for whatever reason, don't make it the priority that it should be, let alone, that we know it needs to be. Perhaps we do the wrong thing, or say the wrong the thing. And yet, shortly after we've made the course correction or confession, as it may be, something happens that shows us just how close to the edge we came.

It's an interesting dynamic, one I dare say, I've witness occur at least twice already this year.

Is it procrastination? Is it stubbornness? It is simply a lack of awareness? Whatever it is, I know that many have battled with the work and the word that God has attempted to accomplish and speak into our lives, whether you stand in the pulpit, sit in the pew or stroll by on the pavement.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that God would help us hear better, sooner to His voice and the prompting of the Holy Spirit. May pastors know what and when to do. Pray that the temptation to delay would be quickly dismissed. Pray for an increased awareness to the hand of God at work. May the "close-call" reminders not be necessary, because the messages where heard immediately and responded to sooner.

Ears to hear
Eyes to see
Hands that do
Feet that go
The body of Christ,
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I read with heavy heart earlier today, the social media post from a friend who is a senior pastor. And while I'm waiting for permission to use some of the excerpts from his post (and it is public via his blog as well as the announcement made in his church), I simply shared his post on my personal page with the sentiment that the often unknown and untold stores of the struggles pastors face is both the evidence and explanation of what keeps me working on this project.

I simply can't fully fathom the battle my friends are facing in their family. The responsibility of ministry simply adds a whole other layer of complication to the equation, as all of us have experienced the struggle of balancing time, relationships and commitments.

I know I'm not giving details and I would like to give some, but the bottom is line is that there are seasons. And we have to recognize when a different strategy is needed to win. The end result, is that my friend is taking a month-long, leave of absence from the pulpit, to both lead and fight for the health and wellness of his family.

So while there are many other pastors in similar situations, on this #seniorPastorMonday, would you pray specifically for my friends? Pray that God would give them strength to endure and persevere. Pray for the miraculous healing and breakthrough that needs to occur in this battle they wage. May the spiritual attack which has come against them subside and may the power of the blood of Christ wash over them. Pray that God would grant them wisdom and discernment, in both the day to day decisions of life as well as the major decisions that will help guide and direct the days to come. Pray that they would emerge victorious from this battle; refreshed and renewed to continue in the ministry and calling God has placed on them to return to the church and community they serve.

For the battle is already won
As God hands them the victory
For His glory.

- PNC

I got to thinking about generations again, probably a combination of what happened earlier tonight and something pastor said during service. Whatever it was, one thing is clear. Every generation makes an impact on the next.

Some impacts are profoundly powerful; an inspiration to do, to go and to be better, farther and more accomplished than has previously been done.
Other impacts are also, quite powerful... and profoundly devastating. They serve as opportunity to do, go and be something entirely different from what the generation was.

The first kind is always intentional.
The second kind, almost always quite unintentional.

Thus, it begs the question, for nearly every conversation, every action, every teaching moment and shared experience... what the desired outcome.

Because if we recognize our words and deeds don't bring about the desired outcome, then we should probably change course.
And if they do bring about the desired outcome, then we are reminded to continue to do the right thing and handle matters the right way.

Every impression may not seem lasting when it is made, but that doesn't mean that it does not last. Even the ones you don't plan or think will. They do.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that as leaders of the body of Christ, that pastors would never lose the perspective that impacts are always being made. Pray that their conversations would be intentional, and their actions, honorable. Pray for a grace about their lives, that when mistakes are made, they will not only be short-lived, but lessons quickly-learned. May they not only lose the hope of their faith, but also bring a hope of faith to those around them; excited not only for what God has accomplished, but what He is in the process of accomplishing.

For as long as humanity lives
God's redeeming grace stands.
For the kingdom of God.

- PNC

It seems as if daily, there's another argument made for the need for the truth and for telling it. And for the past few days, I've found this phrase repeating.

Truth Protectors.

Know the truth. Yes.
Declare the truth. Yes.
Hold fast to truth. Absolutely.
Protect it? Um...

An interesting perspective, if you will on the concept of protection. We often think of protection as shelter, which it is. It's also boundaries and limits, as much as people like to argue they don't have their place. They do and they know it. But I would submit that protection also involves preparation.

Protection is making sure my kid doesn't run out into the street. At the same time, protection is giving that same kid the skill and mindset necessary to safely navigate the street, whether through walking, riding or driving. I can't protect them by refusing any interaction with traffic. The kid needs to know how to navigate the situation. And substitute traffic for any other issue of life. Dating. Drugs. Career. Relationships. Politics.

Ugh. The arena where so many leaders having seemingly forgotten about truth or they ignore it. I'm not taking sides, nor convincing you of anything. But here we are bombarded again with narrow narratives, rather than exposed truth. Perhaps because Colonel Jessep was right. Too many people can't handle it.

Perhaps too many can't handle it because not enough people tell it. We've sheltered it, rather than used it wisely in the public square. And now, when seen in public, nobody knows how to respond to it; as if it is a lost and foreign concept. And here's a play on words that you can read into whatever you will; I trust you're mature enough to handle it. Isn't it strange, that we are seemingly more open to allow what is unknown into our lives, while rejecting what is known.

I don't care what God has to say about my life and His plan for me, but I'll call a psychic hotline on late-night television. Um, what?
I don't care what God says about my finances, but we need to buy a new car, cause Joe down the street got a sweet, new ride. Too much?
Relationships experience a similar dynamic all the time.
You get the idea.

Consider this... if the church starts forgetting, ignoring or diminishing the power of truth; just how much trouble are we in? Is this a big deal in our churches? I don't know. It certainly seems like it is a growing problem, though. And you could probably tell me stories of how big and how long this has been the case.

If the truth doesn't matter, then nothing else does either. 

So, pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that those who sit at the heads of our local churches, would indeed, be truth protectors. May they boldly speak the truth and steadfastly hold on to it. Pray that they would know it for when it is obvious and may they seek it, when it is not so obvious. Pray that would neither be a wavering from it, nor a recklessness in their handling it. May they use it rightly and often. Pray too, for those who need to hear it, for they are many. Pray for revelation in their hearts and minds, that they would receive it and in doing so, may their lives be transformed by the power and hand of God.

For the truth accomplishes so much more than deceit
For those who are willing to forgo the temporal for the eternal.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

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

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

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

It seems we're watching a dangerous trend recently. And by recently, admittedly, it's probably been the past number of years... maybe longer. We're witnessing an antagonism towards leadership that goes beyond personality differences and disagreements in direction. So great is the dichotomy, that it would seem there is a growing group hoping for the failure of leadership.

I disagree with how you are going about this decision or direction is no longer sufficient. We are witnessing attitudes, actions and statements that reveal the downright ruination of those in leadership and authority. Nowhere is this more apparent that in the political landscape, but we've watched in the business world for years and decades. In the battle of competition and market-share and the domination of a space within an industry, many have secretly and openly wished for the failure and downfall of their nemesis.

Now, I can only hope and pray that our churches are not seeing this, neither from their congregations nor the leadership. But I bring this topic of because I think the cracking of the door of this whole process as well as the animosity that results from the fall-out does rear it's ugly head within the church.

Leadership at every level certainly has its' faults and missteps; glaring mistakes and downright failures. It's understandable to a degree, for we are all human and for the believer, possess the understanding that we all fall short of the glory of God.

But once the crack has broken wide open, regardless of whether or not our hope for demise was secretive or public; we see people use the failure of a leader as justification to no longer trust that leader. And we take it one step further to make an argument against the bigger picture... the organization, the institution, the very foundation.

We take a flaw or bad result and use that as a basis to completely start over. And while there may be a time and place for doing so, that should not be our default rush to corrective action.

For in doing so, you may very well eliminate all the inherent good that does exist and never recover; because of the imbalance of our perspective, one runs the risk that they may never recreate the balance that the people before have striven to achieve.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would guard the hearts and minds of pastors as they lead their churches and ministries. Pray that their failures, defeats and mistakes would be few; not from a place of perfection, but as a deterrent for people to use that against them to bring to ruin their life and their ministry. Pray God would give them wisdom as they navigate these challenging times and vast variety of experiences and beliefs that they will encounter on any day of the week. Pray for discernment as the communicate, both on the street and from behind the pulpit. May their be engagement to speak the truth and to show love; for the two are inseparable.

For God does not call the qualified
But qualifies the called.
And Pastors do what they do;
Just like the rest of us.
By the grace of God
For His glory alone.

- PNC

I've recently been informed that a true man admits when they are wrong.

Of course, it's not "new" information, and yes, thus far, I've withheld my sarcastic response, as the comment was directed towards a current political problem and not me directly. However, I am taking it to heart and acknowledging as such here and now.

I so relate to Paul. This is my biggest struggle. And it's not eternally-heavy issues, but it's the frustrating things of adulthood that keep from living a blessed, prosperous and effective life.

"The things I know to do, I don't. And the things I don't want to do; I continue to do." 

What's this have to do with ministry?  Because I got to thinking about the burden pastors carry; about how much they desire to do for others; to share the Gospel, to make disciples, to lead the church to go out and do the same and to change their communities with the love of Christ for the glory of God.

And they can't do it all. They can't personally meet every need. They can't respond to every request. They can't pray with every person, nor make every visit. The time, energy and money simply doesn't solely exist in their life to solve every problem. Yet, if wishing made it so, an overwhelming majority of pastors would be fight to be first in line. Simply because that's where there heart lives. Not first in line for their own benefit; but to fill the gap of someone who can't get to the front of the line or doesn't feel worthy to stand at the front of the line.

Some people can't stand pastors and church leadership.
I can't help but stand in admiration while simultaneously convicted.

For the handful of things that are out of balance in my life; why would God use me? And while I'm fully aware that many pastors would acknowledge they have their own list of things that are out of balance, they continue to position themselves to desire to be used by God all the more. The question of why still hovers at times, in their lives as well.

I think it's a sign of both an active, yet troubled faith. For we know to press on; but doubt says don't bother.

And we're back to Paul's struggle. Shoulda, coulda, woulda, done this and not that. But alas, here I am. Which is really the only response God cares about when He calls for us. Not all the stuff, not all the excuses. Just as we are, where we are.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors struggling with wanting to do more in their ministry, and yet resources, in whatever form they are needed, are lacking. Pray that God would give them wisdom, to steward their time, people and resources properly. Pray for an obedient spirit that would not be so focused on simply doing the most good, but meeting the need to which God has specifically directed them to take care of at that moment. May God continue to raise up people within the church, who will surround them and support them in the ministries and outreaches in which they engage the community and the world. Pray also, for proper balance; to take care of what needs to be done and not become so distracted that the days pass, filled with meaningless moments.

Stronger and better; not because of ourselves,
But by who we are in Christ
To do what He has called us to do
For the glory of God.

- PNC

An oft-stated line from a previous pastor... information becomes revelation becomes transformation.

We learn. We go. We do. We be. And repeat. This is the process of becoming.

Change is rarely overnight. It is, with much greater frequency, a disciplined series of steps taken towards a specific destination and done so, with great intentionality. Do we get thrown off along the way? Yes. Distracted? Constantly. Frustrated? Often. Discouraged? Well, it usually follows frustration where if goes.

I worry what happens when learning ceases. And worse, what happens when the discipline to do so is lost and forgotten?  It's really dangerous ground for any individual to find themselves. Stagnation. Ignorance. Audacity. There really is no reason to step in the room and leave with absolutely no new information. If anything, there should at least be a perspective to take away or a truth reaffirmed. Anything that does not leaving you looking back at an activity or an event as though it were a waste of time.

Hopefully, at least where people and relationships are concerned, that it is not the parting sentiment. Especially for the church, which is a living organization, full of people that should be so filled with God that we speak life. For the power of to give life is gone, then perhaps Life has parted from us; and while that's dangerous for the believer, it is destructive for a pastor.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would always keep and maintain a spirit to receive. Pray they would not be tempted to reach and exist at a level where they have arrived or attained all. May there be a continual reliance upon God for His Work and a continual thirst for the understanding of His Word. Pray for a strengthening of discipline to know and to seek the deep things of God.

That the church would be stronger and greater
Because of the increase that God brings to the life of the leadership
For the glory of God.

- PNC

For all the grace God has extended to us, we truly have some rough days where we have difficulty in advancing to others. And when we aren't passing it on to others, it remains in possession; which isn't problematic, except for when we have difficulty applying it to our own lives.

I can utilize what God has given.
I can share what God has given.

It's amazing to consider sometimes, the stories and the testimonies of absolute craziness that God has accomplished in the lives of some pastors. Deliverance, healing and restoration... the stories are mind-blowing. They will "never", not be able to continually apply God's grace to their lives, nor ever NOT share that grace to those around them.

But as we continue to hear stories of pastors who struggle and burnout... even if they are among those who've experienced incredible grace in past days, their current struggle can position them as though the flow is cut and damaged.

Life becomes an incredible frustration, both from a state of existence and as a state of engagement.

Yesterday's mistakes, missteps from 3 days ago, misunderstandings from 30 days or wrong-doings from 30 years ago.

We know to let go and let God.
We struggle to let go and let God.

And where and when we are quick to turn to God, seek forgiveness and ask for grace, we still turn around and think twice to extending it to those around us. God doesn't put a time-limit on what He offer and makes available to us, but we make conditional and provision limits to others. This is both problematic and hypocritical. Society has enough of that; and certainly not enough grace. So what will we do.

Continue to walk in grace.
Continue to give grace.
Remember there are limits on neither;
Healthy boundaries by which we should live.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those who struggle to apply grace to there own lives, Furthermore, pray they would extend grace to others. Pray for divine appointments and reminders, of both the work God has already accomplished and what He looks to still achieve in this world. Pray they would lead by example, in not holding grudges, nor allowing anger to get the best of them and cause damage to both home in ministry. May God give them wisdom and discernment, to know what it is worth fixing and what is worth dismissing, what is worth correction and what justifies release.

May grace abound.
Not only because we need it,
But because God desires to give it
For His glory alone.

- PNC

How's this for a refreshing truth regarding our relationship with God?

You can't outpace God's grace.

You're welcome... I'll be here all week.

Actually, it was funny; earlier this morning, between a conversation and two messages with the span of an hour and all three of them touched on Adam & Eve in the garden and breaking of man's relationship with God and what transpired. We've all done stupid; and as Dave Ramsey likes to say, stupid with zero's attached.

But isn't incredible, that God's grace exceeds all.

Pastor stated it quite nicely during Sunday morning's message as well.

"God's better at loving you, than you are at destroying yourself."

And isn't interesting, the positions we find ourselves, where we thing perhaps we are safe; that there's a veil or a protection... foolishly thinking like Adam did, that a temporal covering will cause God to not take a second glance. People will go so far as to seek leadership and places of prominence, hedging bets that they won't get called out more often than not. There's even the tendency to want to hide behind ministry... for who will make sure they are spending enough time in the Word and in prayer and the like.

Granted, that eventually, hopefully will become obvious if they aren't, then again, we'd probably be surprised how long many have slid under the spiritual radar of their church community. Yet as horrible and disconcerting as that is, for all the mistakes we make, especially in positions of leadership, God's grace exceeds our ability to outrun it.

That shouldn't be permission to run further, but an invitation to make a course correction and live within its' sufficiency.

So pray, this #seniorPastorMonday for those who are, for whatever reason, attempting to outrun and outpace God's grace. Perhaps they are caught in a pattern that they can't break or feel as though they are beyond a point of no return, may God extend  His love, compassion and conviction to bring them back from the brink. Pray that they would neither burn out from the responsibilities of the church nor hind behind it to neglect their relationship. May a genuine and active faith prove to show their health and ministry to be effective day in and day out. Pray the lies of the enemy would be silenced and his tricks thwarted. Pray for a return to the living and basking in the presence of God rather than our sinful desire to move beyond that relationship in search of something that would be of eternal detriment.

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

- PNC

We prayed a couple weeks back about ownership, regarding church leadership. If I recall, the discussion revolved around the mistakes and failures that leadership finds themselves in; whatever the reason behind the circumstance. What jogged my memory about the post was earlier today, I was listening to a portion of Stryper's latest album and they song Own Up played, dealing with this very subject.

As the song played, I had a thought-provoking analysis; that like any good analysis began with a question.

Is there a difference between taking ownership on a personal level and taking ownership on a public level?

I think the simple answer is, yes!

Why is this possible?

First of all, I think it's possible for people to take public ownership of a problem, but it doesn't really take root in their heart and mind that they would do something different the next time around.

The reverse is equally possible and perhaps, even more profound. I can take ownership of something in my life, perhaps that God is working on and allow the Holy Spirit to do His work; however long it takes, and yet that problem or issue never becomes a public acknowledgement.

We know that our mess, God uses to create message, but not every message involves every detail. So the private issue, may or may not become a major point upon which someone expounds on as they tell their story. But the work that God has done in them in their private, quiet time of prayer, devotion and reflection can be a noticeable shift; even a major breakthrough for their life.

Thus, indeed the power of ownership is double-sided. With a time, place and process for both. In their own right, both unsettling prospects to endure. But what God creates as we submit to the process...

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors that are struggling with the issues that God is dealing with them in their private and personal time. Pray that they would not believe the lies that there is not a problem, where God is saying otherwise. Pray for the conviction of the Holy Spirit to be balanced by the redemptive love of the Father. May whatever stands in the way of them being able to be honest with themselves, step aside. Pray for breakthrough; for strength and healing as pastors go through this process.

For we do not live this life alone.
The God who brings conviction
Also sends us comfort, healing and restoration.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

It goes without saying, ministry is an investment.

An incredible, "lifelong" investment. I use quotes, because people of all walks of life come to salvation at every stage of life and go through an number of life-changing encounters before recognizing a formal call upon their life to full-time ministry. But yes; a truly, full-fledged investment.

One of considerable time.
One of unspeakable sacrifice.
One of great study
One of eternal love.

But the stakes are high. Eternally high. The rewards are priceless. The risks are life-altering. I'd go as far as to say death-defying, but sadly, the more accurate reality, are the instances where ministry is death-resulting.

Oddly enough, Matthew Ward's song Armed & Dangerous is playing.

"Prepare this warrior's heart..."

Ministry is a battlefield. It make look easy. It may have an appeal. But any pastor will tell, it is not for the faint-heart. The beauty found with ministry is incredible. The tragedy witnessed is, at times, unspeakable. They continual stand at the forefront of decisions that will not only impact and influence eternity, but will fall one of side of its' line or the other.

Not wanting to have the conversation of eternity's line doesn't remove it's existence. We either deal with eternity by proactive choice or reactive default. Thus, so too, is ministry an intentional step forward or a reactionary step back.

Which is the same choice for every investor reading the prospectus.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday that God would strengthen the hearts of those who've experienced more of the risk and loss side of the ministry equation. May their be an increase in the beauty and reward of ministry; not that it is all colored roses, but that the struggle and defeat would not overwhelm them to burnout. Pray for protection as they daily face the risks of ministry, whether they be great and dangerous or minor and mundane. Pray that God would grant them wisdom as the encounter and engage with those whose decisions are on the verge of impacting eternity. May God be glorified and lives forever changed for good, for the glory of God.

Whatever the choice,
May it be done so wisely
For a foolish investor,
Is a dangerous investor.

- PNC

Of all the songs to strike me on this #seniorPastorMonday, it's the lyrics from U2's New Year's Day.

Four simple words. Count them. Four. 4. quattro.

"I will begin again."

We keep hitting these stages and phases in life, where in the frustration of realizing that we aren't as far along as we should, planned or hoped that we would be; we also don't want to go back to the very beginning. Often times we don't "have" to do so. But at other times, we might not have a choice in the matter either.

Resolve, however, is the first step.

I can't fathom what some pastors have gone through in the tenure of their ministries. Mistakes of the own undoing, ousting(s) that were beyond their control and situations that simply couldn't be overtaken nor the people affected won over. It almost overwhelming to consider.

I think of my own life, the things I've had to revisit and restart... even all the way back to the beginning. And the resolve has been both lax and lacking altogether at various times. But God is a God of redemption. And we see even where he, began again. Destroyed the people of the Earth, save Noah and his family and began again. He made Israel wait to enter Canaan until an entire generation had passed away. 

There is great power, and possibility in beginning again.

It's an exciting process, but an anxious prospect.
But this is what God does. Creation and re-creation is His specialty.

And despite how we've arrived back at the starting line, I think God smiles as He prepares people to send forth, a second, third and even a fourth time... to begin again.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday for those pastors who find themselves in places where they don't want to start over. Whatever the nature of loss they have endured, pray that God would strengthen their entire being and refresh their spirits to a new work. Pray they would find the resolve to not allow detours and derailment to keep them from the work God has ordained for them to accomplish; whether it be a continuation of work or going in a different direction. May depression and discouragement be far from them; if when the feelings of unworthiness and worthlessness are great. Pray that anxiety and fear would not dissuade or hinder one's ability or wherewithal; but that they would be quickened, to begin. Again.

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

- PNC

We all have our off-days, down-times and bad seasons. Your favorite sports team goes through a losing streak funk. Your pastor... a bad sermon? Hopefully not a loss of the entire series of sermons! A couple additional moments thinking about yesterday's boring sermon from an exciting Word train of thought...

For indeed, we've all been there. What was I thinking? Why did I say that? Where was my mind when I decided that? Where was my heart when I pursued that? Clearly, something was off base and out of whack. Perhaps even to a serious, or worse, disastrous degree.

Of all the situations, circumstances and conversations that we go through on a daily basis, the last thing you want to have go wrong is anything that has lasting and detrimental impact. Ministry is paramount, for everything done has in mind, the eternal perspective.  As such, it's frustrating when things don't go as planned or hoped when it comes to such matters, whether in the avenue of formal ministry or the act of informal ministering.

Which is more difficult... your pastor getting out of a season of "funk" or your favorite professional athlete? We certainly get more excited about a great game, than we do a great sermon.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday for those pastors finding themselves in a difficult season of struggle. Whatever it is that is weighing them down or bringing discouragement, pray that that spirit and whatever has brought it to bear would be lifted. Immediately. Pray for a refreshing and rejuvenating move of the Holy Spirit over their hearts and minds; may the heads be lifted by the hand of God. May God extend grace as a covering, for the insecurities, faults and inadequacies of pastors; for it relies not on their charismatic greatness, but upon His divine power and sovereign purpose as they move in faithful service.

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

- PNC 

Anxiety strikes at the strangest times.

I had a rough time last night, as I went to bed, perhaps from reading an event from a family, that very easily could be my situation (from what little details she provided). Whether that prompted it or something else, I was unable to get my brain to slow down and calm down for the longest time. And I don't struggle panic attacks and what not. It was unusual, to say the least.

But it amazes me as we go through life, the burden we fear when nobody is around. All sorts of people and relationships come to mind; opportunities that have yet to happen and opportunities that haves, that occasionally cause us regret. Some lifestyles are such, that the circumstance give legitimate cause for concern (occupational hazards), but life is such that events can affect any and all of us.

It doesn't matter who you are; unnecessary states of worry and anxiety are frustrating, even when you know and understand that tragedy can strike at any moment. 

Having said that though, not that we all don't have a lot going on, but pastors... the burden is already great in their lives. The ministry. The calling. Eternity. The people and families within their church and community that they impact on a daily and weekly basis is profound and deep. It's almost stressful just in thinking about how quickly they could suffer from anxiety and worry, for any number of reasons, let alone tragedy and disaster within their own home and family.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for a renewed sense of peace and calm within their lives and families. Pray for strength for those that are in midst of trials and tragedies, whether in their marriage, the children or the church. May God give them the ability to grip their faith like never before and to experience the grace and love of Christ on a deeper, more profound level. Pray for a new message, from the mess; a new testimony from the testing; a new story from storm. Indeed, make God work all things, even that which is beyond our comprehension, for His good.

And may the peace of God
That surpasses all understanding
Fill their hearts and minds.
For the glory of God.

- PNC                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                           

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC