Isn't it amazing how God brings things to our remembrance. I didn't really have a specific focus for today's prayer until after I had been up for about 5 minutes this morning. Yesterday, I had two unknown life change show up in my social media updates. A literal trading places moment, so to speak.

A senior pastor whose church I visited a couple of times less than three years ago, shared that yesterday was his last sermon as senior Pastor. After 7.5 years of ministry with this church, God is calling them to the mission field.

Meanwhile, a former senior pastor friend of mine, whose church I attended for period of time, post college, made the same switch a couple of years later. Yesterday, he shared on social media, that he and his family had stepped back into a senior pastorate position.

I have a hard enough time switching churches, when we've had to do so and equal difficulty changing jobs as well. I'm not sure how well I would handle being in positions of church leadership and making such decisions. I know it still comes down to prayer and seeking the face of God and His will for your life, just like any believer would do the same for their vocation or place in life; but somehow in ministry is seems like such a bigger deal.

This reminds me, friends of mine who were youth pastors at a former church, announced a few weeks ago, they too, are moving back to their home state, from their current place in church leadership, for what God has in store for them next in ministry.

These are huge decisions. They leave incredible marks on a church and the decisions that follow for finding the man and woman of God, who He has in mind that should take that church to the next level are level 1 critical.

I am excited for what God will accomplish in the lives of my friends, as they step into these new roles and places of ministry. I also know making such decisions would send me into orbit.

Pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for these and others, who are or soon will find themselves in places of transition regarding ministry. Pray for peace and strength for the days and weeks and months to come as major decisions and logistics of life are sorted out. For wisdom and direction in their conversations as they figure out said logistics. Pray for the churches and mission fields, where there are now respective gaps, because of these transitions... may God sovereignly move to bring the people who He has called forward to step into these opportunities and fulling the calling and purpose He has for their lives. May these transitions be smooth and vision clear, as these involved believe these moves to be the will of God, ordained in advance. Pray a great harvest for both the mission field and these communities.

Called by God.
Moved by God.
For His purpose
For His glory.
For the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

Pastor preached an incredible message yesterday on the worst kind of sin. Often, within the church, we categorize sins and we have a huge tendency to associate it with the behavior of others before looking at ourselves. Their sin is worse because of what I can visibly see externally in them, rather than what they can't see internally in me.

That right there, was the topic.

Pride.

The profound insight, is that pride is the one vice that leads to everything other kind. For many reasons this happens to be true, but primarily because whatever vice does come next in one's life, pride either says, it won't be a struggle for them, so it's okay or they won't get ensnared by it and thus, it's okay.

I didn't think about how to write on this, until a little over half an hour ago, when, as I was about to get ready up and write, then run off to work, my youngest daughter had a "clean-up on aisle 12" moment. Of course, I'm Dad and she's young, so there's not a whole lot of options to stand their and refuse to be a part of helping resolve the matter. Sure, I was a little frustrated, but doing nothing would have wreaked further havoc. Literally.

So it is with pride. There's a time to know when to stand one's ground, certainly, but at the same time, so much goes out the door when pride stands tall. Compassion, forgiveness, understanding, grace... acting too big to fail and too big to get involved and help cause big problems and in leadership, is detrimental to the health of an organization.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling in this area. For those that are not involved in matters where they should be, not wanting to be part of the solution; for those who are too involved and using their position or prominence to justify their behavior, thus perhaps leaving an open door for any kind of temptation... may God do a work in their heart and mind; that none of us are perfect, nor are we worthy of what God has given us and purposed for us to accomplish. Pray for a change of heart; where a lack of humility has stood in the way of grace, compassion and understanding with churches. May God do a healing work in relationships and circumstances where pride has caused a mess and where messes have been prolonged because pride has prevented people from stepping in and clean-up.

May the church become even more life Christ
Starting with leadership.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Our family attended the annual church picnic of the church where my wife and I met and where my father-in-law and his wife still attend. I have to tell you that I hadn't thought anything about today's prayer post, until the praise and worship band played "It Is Well", a modern take on Horatio Spafford's It Is Well With My Soul.

Immediately, this got me thinking about pastors and missionaries who have suffered great loss and personal tragedy. Like all of us, it comes in many forms... family struggles, disappointments, loss of life or possessions, medical difficulties, financial trouble, ministry turmoil.

We often sing It Is Well, at times when life feels the farthest thing from being well. Spafford penned the words to this song after losing his four daughters on the ship crossing the Atlantic; but how many of us remember that less than six and a half years later, he would lose his 3-yr old son to scarlet fever?

I found myself for a few moments, thinking about a few pastor friends. One truly wonders sometimes, how people manage to keep the faith. It's clearly not that those in ministry have an easier life. It simply proves we should cover them in prayer, as much as would desire for someone to pray with and over ourselves.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors struggling with the challenges of life. Whether in ministry or at home, with family or among friends, pray for battles and difficulties they currently face. Pray that God would gird them up and strengthen their hearts as they focus on Him and what He has called them to accomplish. Pray he would encourage and bring peace to the minds and souls. May worry, anxiety and an overall sense of unrest leave and may the peace that surpasses all understanding bring them to a place of rest in Christ. No matter what the outcomes and the conversations that transpire along the way, even when it seems to be not so well; may their be a quiet confidence in the sovereignty of God; that indeed life "will be well, with my soul."

For the glory of God,
We pray these things.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

- PNC

I think it's safe to say, that next to politicians and government, few professions receive receive as much criticism for who they conduct themselves in the world in comparison and contrast to how people perceive they should, than pastors and Christians.

Sadly, the criticism often comes from those inside the church, just as much as does outside the church, both in attitudes towards pastors and other Christians. This is sad on many levels; primarily though because Satan would desire little more than to divide and conquer the church from the inside out. If he can pull people away, if he can pull pastors out; if he can create opportunities for offense, hurt, distrust and chaos... by whatever means necessary to destroy whatever health a church may be experiencing.

I don't want to rehash pastor's entire sermon on criticism yesterday, which was a powerful message; that while there are times when criticism is genuine and constructive, it has destroyed many pastors when it was neither.
Which brings me to the profound statement he made, or more likely, referenced; but I failed to notate on my table who said first...

"There are those who have enough steam to blow the whistle, but not enough to power the engine."

This is exactly why we need to be careful in our criticism and attacks on leaderships. Should we place them in positions and decisions where they step off and step down from running the engine, suddenly you'll be going nowhere and who will step in, to keep the church, the organization, the family unit... moving in the direction that was laid before you; the plan and purpose God had called you to fulfill?

With no one at the helm, criticism will quickly place you in a position where you will be considered SOL.

So. Outta. Luck.

Meanwhile, criticism, done wrong will destroy a person, a pastor and a ministry. Just the kind of thing you want to be responsible for, especially if you are a Christian and active in the church.

Thanks for joining me, as we begin the 15th month of #pray4pastors.

On this first #seniorPastorMonday of the month, pray for churches struggling with an overarching spirit of criticism about their culture. Pray it be removed by the power of the Holy Spirit. May such environments witness a shift, to encourage and uplift the body of Christ and pastors and leaders in the church. Pray the genuine, warranted criticism would find it's proper place and achieve an effective result; whereby the church is strengthened, mature and healthy. Pray for pastors struggling with their response to criticism; for those where the barrage has burnt them out or has placed them on the verge; for those contemplating their next steps... may they be reminded of who they are in Christ and the calling and anointing placed on their lives. May the view criticism in it's proper context and respond appropriately, as the Holy Spirit reveals the truth of the matter to them. Pray the church would find balance and health in this area; to improve areas that would bring honor and glory to God while strengthening the gifts and abilities God has placed upon people and ministries that would impact communities for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Words of blessing; not cursing.
Life and health; rather than death and destruction.
Building up the body of Christ
For the glory of God.

- PNC

My apologies that yesterday's #effectiveSunday prayer got posted later in the day. The schedule of getting ready for church and things to get done before church got hijacked. As such,  it also meant that as I listened to the sermon, the back of my mind was trying not to lose the focus of the prayer that you should have been able to read by that time. Fortunately, in a powerful sermon on marriage, Pastor said something towards the end, that when He said it, I knew it would be the focus of today's prayer. Now, I just needed God's help in not crossing both prayers!

As we pray for Senior Pastors on Monday's, mine stated a change in schedule that they've had in their home, since they've adopted two, newborn babies (one at a time) in the past 4 yrs. In fact, it sounded like it's transpired after they adopted the second one, but the impact remains.

He shared how on Monday mornings, how he'd "race in" to church. Getting in first thing, if you will and get to work. However, he was able to recognize a shift, now in his marriage and the appearance of kids and balance in the home. He and his wife (who is also on staff) have always prayed together daily, but they now take an hour, specifically, on Monday morning, to pray over their home, marriage and the church. Interestingly enough, he went on to say the impact that has made; in the increased growth and overall health of the church as they have made this dedicated time on Monday mornings to come together in prayerful agreement.

Of course, my first thought was... how many pastors aren't doing this? And struggling, as a result. Perhaps the marriage is strong, but not strong enough. Perhaps it's in trouble and they just can't seem to come into agreement, either in prayer or on any other matter. Are they struggling to build a healthy church because they are having a hard time maintaining a healthy marriage? Is it noticeable to the congregation and thus, making a negative impact that hasn't been revealed in this light?

The spiritual health of the pastors' marriage speaks volumes to the spiritual health that can and should exist within the body of Christ. Else, where is the model that the church will look? I'm not saying my pastors' marriage, or any other pastor or my own for that matter is perfect. They aren't, nor is mine. But who seeks counsel in an area of life from a person who is also struggling in that area? I wouldn't go to someone who is in worse financial position than I and ask, how do I get in a better financial state?

We need strong pastors to have healthy homes, if for no other reason, they bring a balance and stability to the church that enables them to build and influence healthy homes and marriages within the community. Healthier communities, contribute to a healthier nation... which we all agree we need right now; in many areas and aspects of life. But if the spirit isn't healthy, how will the body fare? For out of the heart, the mouth speaks.

(funny... as I pause for a moment, to think about how to start writing the prayer, I look at my phone. On the Bible widget, is today's verse: Ps. 139:23,24
- Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me and know my thoughts. And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting)

On that note, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would indeed search our lives and that of our pastors. May the wickedness within be found and removed. May God lead pastors in the way everlasting, bringing insight into their own hearts and lives; whereby their faith continues to grow and mature. Pray their homes and marriages be strengthened; that they would be a testament to the greatness and faithfulness of God... a light to the body of Christ and the community-at-large of what a Godly home in faithful service to the Gospel should model. May the prayer time of pastors coming together with their spouse be fruitful; may their prayers and petitions be heard by God; that He would hear and respond... with insight, with revelation, with truth and wisdom, discernment and power. Pray the miraculous to be witnessed, in their home and in their church; that many lives within the community would see and know the handiwork of God; of His goodness and greatness... of what can happen when two people come together and stand in agreement on the Word of God through the avenue of prayer.

May today be a day of change.
Positive impact as the power of God is unleashed through prayer.
For His Glory and Honor, we pray these things.

- PNC

We had a guest speaker yesterday morning, who preached an incredible message simply titled, "God's Waiting Room." While there are many character he could have chosen for illustration, he spoke regarding the life of Abraham, waiting on the promise of God for a child. As he closed the message highlighting a few practically applications that we can make in our lives as we wait, it was his last point that particularly struck me and I'd like to highlight for the purpose of today's prayer.

The question posed was essentially this:

What do we miss out in life because we don't lower our pride and allow the faith of others to come alongside and join us in our situation?

What an awesome question! As such, it's modeled in both the old and new testament. Job's breakthrough came when he prayed for his friends. Likewise, in Jesus' ministry, with the four friends who tore into the roof to lower their paralytic friend. Scripture says, "when Christ saw their faith..."

If that wasn't enough, the testimony shared by our guest speaker was just as powerful to hear as from 9-5, at the top of every hour through a M-F work week, he had people from church come pray over his wife. By Friday, whatever it was that had ailed for over 9 months, had left and has never returned.

This is the cause for burnout. Lack of friends to turn to in times of difficulty. Feeling nobody can help in times of adversity. Thinking no one can comfort and walk with you as you face insurmountable challenges.

If only more pastors would recognize how much we are for them and support them.
If only more parishioners would stand and rise to come alongside and stand in agreement with pastors for the places in life they find themselves.

There is power in the agreement of prayer.
There is strength in standing beside a friend and lifting them up spiritually before God; joining their faith and approaching the throne of grace, boldly.
There is great need to do so for pastors, missionaries and church leaders.

Thanks again for joining me as we #pray4pastors.

On this #seniorPastorMonday. pray first and foremost, that a spirit of pride would not stand in the way of pastors reaching out, even if only to one or a few people, to request needing prayer and support for whatever it they face. May feelings of loneliness and all that accompanies it subside, as they recognize people do care for them and that God has forgotten them in their place. Pray for the church, to dismiss their thinking that pastors have their act together. May they recognize the need to join their faith in support as well as join in the mission and calling the pastors  have for the communities they serve. May relationships and tense relations between the pulpit and the pew be mended and healed. Pray a spirit of unity come over the church, anew and afresh; that the impact of the church would increase as God watches people come together and witnesses the faith of those who are friends.

The miraculous.
Where one or two are gathered in My name.
May God be in their midst.
By His Grace and for His glory.

- PNC

As I left church yesterday after service, my mind was transitioning between reflecting on the sermon and figuring out the final preps for the birthday party in our family. There have been many variations on the statement "as goes ____; so goes the ____". Family, nation, etc. So, here's what I felt the Spirit drop in...

"As goes the Shepard, so goes the flock"

There's any number of reason, theologically that one of Christ's titles is the Good Shepard, but as I thought about this yesterday, I realized that humanity for all its faults and failures and evil tendencies would recognize no other way, then unless God came down in human form and set the example for how we should live in a way that brings glory to God. Furthermore, Christ set the example for what a healthy relationship with our Heavenly Father looks like. No other person would accomplish what Christ accomplished, unless God Himself set out to do so. Which is exactly what happened.

Fast forward through the day. The birthday party was great. Everyone had a great time. And by nights end, I was exhausted falling asleep during an episode that my wife and I were watching on Netflix. Clearly, it was time to crash. Of course, upon crawling into bed, I was partially awake again. One last scroll through Facebook, and a friend comments on praying for Perry Noble and his family. Recognizing the name, I thought "hmm, wonder what that's about." Sure enough, seconds later, there was the article. Alcohol abuse and a strained marriage, and he has been relieved of his pastorate in the megachurch that he started. The church had made a statement announcing the decision; which in and of itself, has caused some controversy as to how it's been handled and communicated.

My heart sank. At a time in our society when we need healthy churches, healthy congregations and healthy pastors to make the most of their impact in the communities and the impact of a church such as this, now has this challenge on the forefront of their minds and at the top of their list, of having to navigate. What a difficult and challenging place to be; not only in dealing with Noble and his family, but now the aftermath and the effect this will have on the congregation and the community as to keeping proper perspective and keeping the faith to continue in ministry.

To all this, all I can say is, this is why, God kept prompting me to get serious about this website. We don't know what our church leaders are going through, often until it's too late. Or it's late enough that the only way to deal with it is for something to transpire as what this megachurch is going through; as well as churches of all sizes and denominations have experienced in the past. Lord, we need your help. Today!

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for Pastors, and for this leader and his family. Pray for the long road to recovery they face as a family and that he faces as a man of God. Pray for grace and forgiveness to permeate their home, as well as the church and that they would experience new found freedom in Christ through His love and the work of the Holy Spirit. Pray over the process of healing and restoration; that God would guide their steps for whatever He has planned for them next, as they overcome this battle in their lives. Pray for the congregation and community, as the commentary has already begun about whether the church leadership and media has done right in handling and even reporting on this matter (as we prayed yesterday on the element of criticism, timely as it was). May God guard the hearts of the pastors of this church, who now are moving forward in this ministry; may He grant to them wisdom, understanding and compassion as they lead this church closer to the presence of God. Pray the enemy would be unsuccessful in his attempts to use this as a means to gain ANY ground, whereby he might get a foothold on this church, to cause disruption and discord.

May the church bind together
As we #pray4pastors
In the name of Jesus Christ
For the glory of God, in ALL things.

- PNC

Happy Fourth of July, Bring Me 70 readers!!

Once again, we celebrate our Independence... sort of.

We celebrate our independence from a nation that wanted to control who we were and what we believed, only to, somehow arrive at a place and time where culture and politics want to again control who we are and what believe. Thus, these celebrations continue in seeming conflict... recognizing what was achieved by the Founding Fathers of this great nation, while recognizing we have strayed far and away from their vision of what they fought to defend. Not to mention, what our military service people continue to defend.

I had a number of ideas over the past few days for today's #seniorPastorMonday prayer, in light of today being a National holiday; but it wasn't secured until yesterday morning church service. Our guest speaker, was Dr. Byron Klaus, newly-appointed Interim President at University of Valley Forge. He spoke on the passage from I Samuel 7 (then walked us through the back-story that begins in chapter 4). Over the course of a 20+ year history, Israel experiences great loss, as do the Philistines, for that matter, mostly because of how they treat the Ark of the Covenant. It's a great and powerful story; one that Dr. Klaus put a cap on with this closing perspective that applies to the church today.

"You live in the power and victory of the Cross. Why would you allow defeated foes to control your life?"

Isn't that a great question? And goes will with the opening thoughts. Why do some in this nation insist on returning to ways and policies that we've fought so hard to get away from; that the Founding Fathers took great care in differentiating themselves from. So, too, has the body of Christ been set-apart for the glory of God. Pastors and believers alike are to live in the power and victory of what Christ accomplished on the cross.

And yet, like Israel, rather than taking back what was stolen (the Ark of the Covenant) and allowing it to have the impact in the land that it was supposed to, they protected it... hid it, where God couldn't move in the midst. Such is life, for many Christians. We have the power of Christ, but the lies of the enemy and the memories of the past somehow gain footholds in our lives. We don't deal with them, reminding them of their defeat and so they continue to strengthen and fortify, until they have become strongholds. And what was defeated already now has control once again. Sad. Tragic. Avoidable.

On this Independence Day, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that Pastors would indeed, experience again, independence in their lives. May defeated foes that have somehow gained control be reminded of the power and victory of the Cross. Pray for strongholds to be broken and footholds to be released, as the Holy Spirit moves and works in the lives of Pastors. Pray for freedom!! In their hearts and minds, in their souls and spirits... for their congregations and the communities they serve. Pray they would walk in that freedom in new and powerful ways; influencing and impacting those around them for the cause of Jesus Christ. May they not return to the days of hiding and protection, but moving foward with a boldness and a confidence in what God has accomplished. May today be a day of spiritual celebration as much as it a national day of celebration.

Freedom.
Thanks in part to those who have died in service to country.
Thanks in greater part to Him who died in service to God.

- PNC

I tried last night to recall the idea I was certain I had for this prayer post and was unable to do so. Calling upon God for help, I wasn't sure what I was going to do. Meanwhile, totally unrelated I kept seeing photos and comments from two particular events, on my social media feed.

The anniversary of my pastors' parents... celebrating 60 years of marriage last week.
And the anniversary of friends of the family, from the church I grew up... celebrating 40 years of marriage.

Which got me thinking to milestones and how they can only be established to be remembered after actually having traveled the distance. God, in His Wisdom, dropped into my spirit, to read the full the chapter for the verse of the day, from yesterday, via my YouVersion bible app. The verse of the day was Hebrews 11:23, which talks about remaining steadfast on the promises God has given.

However, if you continue reading the rest of the chapter, particularly in how the Message states things, it tied right in. It asks the question to remember the early days after coming to know Christ. The early church took all kinds of abuse. And yet the verses read:

"Nothing they did bothered you; nothing set you back. So don't throw it all away now. You were sure of yourselves then. It's still a sure thing! But you need to stick it out, staying with God's plan so you'll be there for the promised completion." - from Hebrews 11.

Perfect!!

What do those in ministry; church leaders, pastors miss out on because they don't stick it out. Yes, the early days were hard. Yes, they were difficult and trying times. And so are these. However; the support, the knowledge, the faith, the strength gained along the way... it is so incredibly true. You are so much further along.

God was with you then; more-so now.
God was faithful then; more-so now.
God provided then; more-so now.

Don't let today's battles negate yesterday's victories.

Pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors not so sure of themselves as they were in the early days of their ministry. Pray for those struggling to press on and press in; as today's battles wage war on what they have accomplished and achieved. Pray God would strengthen and gird them up, anew and afresh. May they not throw their lives and the ministries away, but engaging in a destructive mindset or pattern of living, but rather, hold fast to the calling of God upon their lives and the purpose for which has placed and anointed them to fulfill. May the see life through, to the finish; for the promised completion of God.

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

- PNC

I trust you all had a wonderful Father's Day.It can be a difficult day for many, as life turns unexpectedly. My heart breaks for those whose fathers are no longer with us; I can't imagine losing mine, nor my kids losing me. And there's many other circumstances and events that unfold in peoples lives that forever change the nature things. It happens for Mother's day just as much. For single parents who fill both roles (and thereby celebrate both holidays), you are super-heroes.

Say all that to say, Fathers day didn't quite go as we had planned at our place... largely in part because of how the events of Saturday night played out. Literally. Affected, in part, because of changes in the schedule for those in ministry. It got me thinking once again, just how much of a demand gets placed on pastors and their families.

Of course, the more I thought it about, the more I heard the words of the Apostle Paul, replaying in my mind. "I became all things to all people" in order that I might win some with the Gospel. I don't read that as he compromised to fill a need, so much as there was an awareness about his life and he found ways to fill roles and meet the needs of those he came in contact with in order to impact them with the love of Christ and change eternity for the glory of God.

With each passing day, this gets increasingly difficult... as if, being quick on your feet with the ability to change gears, roles and schedules instantaneously without losing anything or missing a bit wasn't an incredible talent already. Much like, I can't fathom how single parents pull of their duties; neither for pastors, the demands of their schedules and finding balance in their lives between ministry, family, friends and personal interests.

Sadly, as we all know and thus, pray according, many of them don't. The struggle is real. The challenge is difficult. The failure rate is significant; the burnout rate continues to trend upward. While they may seem to be super-heroes, they are not super-human. For as much as we need prayer and support to get through this life; preferably one day at a time, so do they.

Thus, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those struggling to successful fill their pastoral roles and duties. Pray for a grace over circumstances and situations where expectations are unrealistically high. Pray for wisdom and discernment where leaders and pastors may be over-committed and over-scheduled. Pray for balance to be restore in their lives, whether with new strategies, additional help and support or simply being able to take a step back and reevaluate their portfolio of responsibilities. Pray for a strength and a stamina as they approach ministry each day; may their not be a spirit of compromise, but indeed, a compassionate willingness to meet people at their point of need as Christ showed. May God accomplish the miraculous for His glory and pastors look to Him anew and place their trust and reliance in Him alone.

To the glory of God
For the advancement of the Gospel
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I hope my worship pastor doesn't mind my stealing his phrase, but as our special Sunday night worship experience came to a close last night and he was leading in prayer for the tragedy in Orlando, the words rang true upon being uttered. In both the morning service, and the special service last night, there was a recurring theme of what transpires from places of desperation.

What measures do we take?
What behavior do we exhibit?
What lengths will we travel?
What attitudes and beliefs will we communicate?

In desperate moments; in trying times that burden the soul... to who will we look and to where will we turn? In our personal lives; as a community mourns, the extraordinary unfolds  before our very eyes. And depending on how one responds, we outsiders look on with understanding of the moment or with frustration of the senseless-ness and absurdity of the moment.

In this life, we are all connected. One's moment of desperation may end up creating moments of desperation for others. Consider, as we did last night, the parents of those who lost their life in Orlando... perhaps there are parents who were already struggling with their kids who were a part of that community; and now those same parents are now facing the loss of their child. What was already a desperate moment is now even more difficult to endure; hope is gone because a life is gone. Or 50 of them, with 50-something more, potentially in the balance.

Elsewhere, statistics are, that 50 or so more pastors will leave the ministry today alone. As I type this, they are waking up to moments of desperation and making decisions that will impact... their families, their churches, their congregations, their communities. Who knows what they will do or say as burnout takes over and hearers of the news that they are walking from the ministry will suddenly be faced with decisions and circumstances that will consume their time for days, weeks and months to come.

Pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors (and obviously, the city of Orlando) as they experience these moments of desperation. May the cry that rises be one of focus and purpose, calling solely upon the name of Jesus Christ to come and to work the miraculous, in their hearts, minds, bodies and souls. Pray the Holy Spirit would come and comfort these and bring clarity of thought and soundness of mind, even in light of tragedy and difficulty; where understanding escapes our grasp. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous for His glory, as pastors and communities of people cry out, for the healing of this land that is so desperately needed; that can not be found in any other person, ideology, philosophy or faith than in the person of Jesus Christ. May the truth of His life shed light on the circumstances and challenges we face in life here on Earth; understanding that no matter what we go through, God is with us... waiting to accomplish His purpose for those who call upon His name. In desperate moments, may that be our first and only response.

We need you, oh God.
We raise our cry to you.
We ask you would hear these prayers.
Heal this land, as we seek your face.
We turn and return, our eyes to You alone.

- PNC

Once again, I wasn't sure what this morning's prayer would look like until the Spirit brought to my remembrance Pastor's message yesterday morning. Speaking on living a life of love, He used the passage from Mark, where Christ boils down the Ten Commandments into two. And in these two simplified commands, were three parties we are to love. The first, what I want to highlight on this #seniorPastorMonday.

Obviously, we are to love God with all four aspects of our being (emotions, will, intellect and physical). And we are to love our neighbor as our self.

We can not give what we don't have.
We can not offer to others what we have not experienced for ourselves.
We can not help from a lower position... we must do so from a position of strength.

Which got me thinking... how many pastors are struggling because they are having a difficult loving themselves?
There's a difference between looking in the mirror and liking the person that looks back out you, confident in who are, especially in light of Christ versus looking at yourself through your cars' rearview mirror and thinking you are better than ever other person on the road of life.

Yet, if you are battling your own weaknesses; suffering from a flawed image that is perhaps the culmination of years of neglect and mistreatment during ministry, then you will no doubt have difficulty expressing the love of Christ, let alone, a friendly, brotherly, neighborly love to anyone new because you don't feel there is any worth in your self from which you operate.

How will I see the positive in you if I can't see the positive in my self?
How will I share the truth of God if I don't see His truth in my life?
How will I share the love of Christ to you, if I don't experience His love for me?
How will I show grace if I don't receive grace?
How will I believe for the miraculous if I haven't witnessed the same?

Neither will a pastor experience victory if they wake up feeling defeated.
Neither will a pastor witness growth if they aren't rising to the challenge
Neither will a pastor accomplish much for the kingdom of God if they feel unable to conquer the world; regardless of whether they acknowledge the truth of "I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength."

So, pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors on the verge of breaking mirrors. For those frustrated by who they feel they have become; inferior, worthless, unqualified, incapable... whatever it may look like; pray God breaks down the  negative spirit. May they remember, as we sung yesterday, that we are no longer slaves to fear, but we ARE a child of God. Pray God would restore a spirit of confidence within them; that He is with them and for them and therefore, who can be against them. Pray they would be reminded; that nothing can separate us from the love of Christ; that there is power, truth and healing for their lives at the feet of Jesus. Pray the power of the Word of God would accomplish the miraculous; as God illuminates and renews their mind anew and afresh. May the fire within them be rekindled; whereby they would once again be able to love God; will all their heart, soul, mind and strength... and just as importantly, love their neighbor as their self.

A child of God
By the grace of God
For His glory.

- PNC

Life has many battlefields.

On this Memorial Day 2016, we remember those who have given their life in service to their country. Their sacrifice is incredible and will never be forgot. Nor should it ever be taken for granted.

That said, we all face battles. Of the physical nature. Of the emotional kind. Under financial pressure. On the home-front. With our kids; with our spouse. And on any other Monday, where we don't have the day off due to a national holiday, on the job site or in the office space.

Of course, the conflicts come in all sorts of sizes, over a huge range of topics. It may be against one party. It may involve many.  Some you see looming on the horizon. Others, seemingly out of nowhere. One minute, all is calm... the next, anything but. Voice raised, tensions mounting and forces are suiting up.

Yet for the believer, our battles are not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers of this dark age. The sooner we realize and remember this truth when the see the tables starting to turn, the sooner we can recognize the importance of self-control and give ourselves a moment to let cooler heads prevail. These brief moments allows us to resolve internally, our determination to work through the conflict not with destructive words and fierce attitudes, but to speak life and peace into the storms that seek to take us out.

Such are the battles that have taken pastors out of the ministry. Conflicts and harsh words; fierce attitudes and people who have left their pastors standing alone at the pulpit... perhaps not physically, but they've withdrawn emotionally and spiritually. Over time, situations and circumstance have diluted and dissolved their way into the church culture whereby laying waste to the structural fabric and foundation of the body of Christ.

And the rebuilding, for whoever takes it on, is greater than Nehemiah repairing the walls of Jerusalem.

Pray, this Memorial Day, aka #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors and the battles they are facing and currently engaged in. Pray, that cooler heads would prevail as they work through conflicts and conversations. Pray that fierce attitudes would cease and that tensions would calm. Pray for an increased ability to speak words of life that encourage and build rather than discourage and break-down. Whether from the pulpit or in the parsonage, pray that the battles they encounter would not take them out of service, but they would come out victorious, by the power of the Holy Spirit, for the glory of God. May such times and their ability to navigate through them, testify to the greatness and the grace of God and that positive impacts for eternity would make their mark along the way. May people ever be grateful and appreciative of their service in ministry for the kingdom of God as we express similar gratitude for those who have served militarily for this great nation.

God Bless His Church.
God Bless The United States of America.
For His Glory and Honor.

- PNC

A little over four years ago, my pastor and his wife adopted their first child; a baby boy. Since  then, they adopted a little girl as well, who has yet to turn two. Their testimony of how the opportunity unfolded is absolutely incredible, especially after years of trying to have kids on their own. It really is an amazing showing of God's grace and mercy and divine intervention of bringing this family together.

That said, their son, is awesome. Both kids are, in fact. To describe him as a high-energy kid would qualify as an understatement of the most serious kind. He is a 100-mph kid.  Their are two modes: chill and race. And you can tell when it's race mode and there's about to be transition. As I walked in yesterday after service, he sat next to my friend, who was serving in nursery with his wife. The kid is covered in sweat. As though he has spent the entire day behind the wheel on the track. We all watch in amazement... wishing we had that energy and stamina. Then we go home, praying for Pastor as they try to keep up, jokingly expressing our gratitude that God is keeping them young.

Yet for the Pastor who tries to keep up this pace in his or her life and ministry; well, it's really not sustainable. Eventually it all catches up to you. Burnout. Frustration. Errors. And who knows when and where it will manifest and what will be affected as a result. Wrong counsel in a meeting. Wrong point in a sermon. A wrong decision. The possibilities are endless; but none of us our immune... at a certain point, rushing leaves you vulnerable to making mistakes; which depending on what's a risk, could turn out to be a costly maneuver. To this, I think we can all agree, the church has experienced way too many such circumstances.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors struggling to maintain. Whether they've tried to keep a fast pace and are on the verge of burnout; or perhaps, they've been in 'chill' mode long enough and having a hard time getting motivated to pick up the pace for what God desires to accomplish. Pray for God to help them to move with Him; not lagging behind as to create distance between them, neither racing ahead that they miss instruction that would keep them from disaster. Pray for the stamina and energy necessary to carry out ministry and the plans God has for them; that God would raise up the body of Christ to come along side and engage in supportive ways and volunteer opportunities. Pray that mistakes in ministry and life would be few; that they would seek the face of God in all things; in all decisions; relying not on their own understanding, but trusting in the Lord and knowing what His will is, for the circumstances in which they find themselves. May those tired and exhausted, find rest; renewed by the power of the Holy Spirit and that God would help them find balance, as they re-engage in life, in ministry, in community.

Godspeed... for His glory.
By His grace.
Through the Holy Spirit.
For the cause of Christ.

- PNC

Moments after writing yesterday's prayer post on great losses, I was getting ready for church. I found myself imagining a friend asking me when they saw me in person, how I had made it through the past few days, with the passing of friends. It didn't take long to realize the answer was pretty simple. On a personal level, there was a distance factor.

Thursday's funeral for my wife's cousin... not that the relationship couldn't have been significantly closer in nature, but let's start with the simple fact, that, for me, it didn't exist until I met my wife.  So there's that.

The gentleman from church... even there, depending on the size of the church, you can only know so many people to varying degrees of depth of friendship and closeness. And even if you do know everyone, life's schedule doesn't permit you to have strong, close-nit ties, where you spend considerable amounts of time together. So while, from the sounds of it, this is one guy many will have wished they knew better, as it stands, I did not.

As for the friend, Saturday morning... once again, incredibly tragic. And yet, a good long physical distance away, the friendship existed because of mutual friends. Those two factors alone keep me... well, suffice to say, in all 3 circumstances, while difficult and tragic, I mourn with family and friends for as an observer, which you'll agree is a very different place than if it were my brother, child, wife or parent.

Having very strong and healthy relationships with all the aforementioned, I would be as devastated as I have observed the past few days. And if that's not an understatement of the century, I don't know what is.

Say all that to say... how do pastors do it? Hundreds of families each week, lives in the thousands impacted and the news never ends. Stories of serious health problems, cancer and otherwise. Relational breakdowns. Impending divorce. Financial ruin. Job loss. Wayward children Disconcerting situations with friends in unhealthy places.

The joyful moments, of gainful employment, engagements to be married, healing and restorations, birth announcements... all seem so less frequent by comparison. And as a Pastor, there is more often a greater relational bond for each circumstance; for these are part of your community that you are spiritually responsible for... to look after and preach and counsel the Word of God into their lives.

I can't fathom, for even this past weeks' news as an observer, even for the two battling cancer, where you knew the potential for the outcome was possible and perhaps closer than desired, was difficult to hear... in a heart-breaking "Seriously? Please tell me it's not true" kind of way. It is... and the grace and wisdom needed for Pastor to help in the process and point people to Christ in the hopes of keeping our focus on Him and a proper perspective on the circumstance, is substantial to say the least.

Thus, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors struggling with the onslaught of seemingly "bad news" of tragedy, loss and suffering. May their be a covering as they minister; that there would a be a peace that surpasses all understanding; that they would possess a calmness and a comfort as they share in conversation. Pray for the miraculous, that in whatever the circumstance, people would be pointed and redirected to the person of Jesus Christ; that many would find rest for their souls as they place their hope and trust in the hands of Almighty and Sovereign God. Pray that Pastors would have their ears atuned to the Spirit; to give proper guidance, a timely word, Biblical instruction and wise counsel as they speak the truth in love and with grace. May their spirits be strengthened and renewed as they help others through the battles of life, often setting their own battles aside in the process. May God help them in theirs, as they help others first.

For the glory of God
Who works ALL things together for GOOD
For those who LOVE HIM and are CALLED
According to HIS purpose.
In Christ Jesus name, we pray.

- PNC

Another incredibly powerful message delivered yesterday morning by the Senior Pastor's wife, speaking to Mothers on the day we celebrate the incredible love and sacrifice the beloved women in our lives who have raised us and the women raise and help raise the next generation of young people. It was a great insight into the life of Ruth with practical application for today's living.

One concept stood out and is worth expounding: Orchestrated by God.

I don't know why orchestration is such a cool word. Perhaps it's the imagery of the environment it conjures up in the mind's eye. I love the definition Merriam-Webster provides: to arrange or combine so as to achieve a desired or maximum effect.

The baseline. The theme. The build-up. The crescendo. The timing of instruments, entering and exiting the piece at key times, adding tension, drama and passion. In this industry, everything is about timing. And if you are going to keep an element of surprise for the listener, then there will be moments were something will be interjected into the piece that may not make sense on its own merit, but when heard in its' entirety... in the context of where it's been placed and what it accomplishes; you won't be able to imagine anything else being there in it's place... not even dead space

You can almost always tell when something is too much.
You can almost always tell when something isn't enough.
You can almost always tell when something is missing.

For those in church leadership, there's a level of orchestration that they should possess. Ultimately, it's God that arranges the days of our lives. And for the moments and circumstances that He interjects that have yet to make any sense yet; well we are placing our trust in God already... what's taking it up another level or two truly cost?

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for those pastors having difficulty watching the events of life and ministry unfold; trying to understand the arrangement of days as they are revealed from the hand of God. May their trust not falter or derail when the elements of surprise appear. Even when full context and big picture perspectives aren't clear, may they have the stamina and perseverance to continue to seek the face of God; knowing full well, He remains able and committed to making all things work together for His glory. May they be encouraged anew, that God does not waste our experiences, but uses our lives to create masterpieces... whereby all may know, He is God.

Our lives. His Creation.
A work, not to be missed.
Orchestrated by God.
For His Glory.

- PNC                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

Relationships are interesting. Especially when there is a deep, emotional bond. When the person is gone, you generally are okay, because you know where they are and that there is a reason for it. When they are around, and you get to spend time with them, the day is great. Then the prospect of them being gone again, or at least returning to a schedule where that will be the case... let the emotions roll.

It can be a moment of sadness. It can be a serious bummer. Depending on the person, it can turn you into an emotional wreck. Perhaps it's overestimating for the adults among us. But consider your younger days or what kids go through... with extended family, grandparents, changes in the schedules of parents. As much as kids don't like major changes in their lives, neither do adults handle significant changes all that well at times... particularly when prompted by the Holy Spirit or it seems God is moving in a particular direction. Such moments can cause us to become unsettled, emotionally-speaking.

Oddly enough, I'm writing this from a situation less than hour old, but recalling a conversation from Sunday afternoon lunch with friends about challenges of knowing the how, when and where of what God is doing and what He is store for one's life. Like a kid not knowing the details of what's going on or where someone is at and how long they will be away, we too, in our walk with Christ can get frustrated and emotionally out-of-whack, as God has a thing about leading and directing one step at a time.

And once again... if it happens for the life of the "everyday" believer, how much more challenging for the lives of pastors and church leaders. It's how God works. We can't change it. But in our human ness, it can be difficult to process and "roll" with how God works. If only the actually process of placing our "trust" in someone was as simple as hearing them make the  statement "trust me". But for the power of prayer...

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors and church leaders struggling to continue to place their trust in God, in situations where it is getting increasingly difficult and frustrating not having a clearer picture of how and where God is moving and directing. Pray for a strengthening of their emotions, as well as mental, physical and spiritual stability. May there be a reassurance, that Christ is one who sticks closer than a brother. May they be comforted anew and afresh, that God will never leave them or forsake them. For the challenges and circumstances they face, may the Holy Spirit bring peace and comfort to their heart and mind, standing firm on the promises of God; that He will accomplish the miraculous as they place their trust in Him, perhaps in a greater dimension than ever before.

Confidence in the character of God.
Peace as they place their trust in Him.
For His glory and honor, we pray.

- PNC

While hanging out with some friends last night from church, for a few moments, we took the opportunity to discuss the mornings' service and sermon. We all agreed, it was a great, powerful service and an excellent message. One friend commented on the delivery of the Word, "Pastor was on fire!", as a metaphor to the athlete who is making incredible plays all throughout their time in the game. Unstoppable.

The kind of moments that are better experienced in person.

Another friend, noted, that upon hearing the title of the message, wondered "OK, how in depth is this going to get?", as we've all heard or maybe sat in a service where the message was more mentally taxing than it should have been, depending on the setting and people. Later in the conversation, a comment was made, showing appreciation for the direction pastor took during the message, when he stated that he could go in a particular direction topically, but that wasn't the focus he was trying to communicate as he explained this passage of Scripture.

The reason for this prayer post... a comment made on how challenging it can be, in choosing sermon topics, in a day and age when it's all too easy for people to get upset and offended when they hear the Word of God or a pastor or spiritual leader tries to present a Biblical truth and apply it to everyday living 

The Word of God is powerful,
The Word of God will not return void.
The Word of God will not pass away.
The Word of God is sharper than a two-edge sword; able to divide bone and marrow

When I hear that last analogy, I think of a surgical tool, used by the doctor to separate the infected area from the healthy; the damaged tissue from the normal; the disease from the clean... the dead cells from the living.

From a God a who is good, patient, loving and just, it seems foolish just how quickly and frequently we dismiss what God desires to reveal to us about who He is and what He has in store for our lives, for any number of reasons... none of which, will ultimately stand one day in eternity ad be found valid in the presence of God as we try to justify our response to what God speaks and reveals through Scripture and the preaching thereof.

As I once told someone recently, just because you didn't like what I had to say, doesn't make my point untrue.

Interestingly enough, I've not liked many a things told to me, and yet, depending on the person  and the matter, their points contained truth(s) that I had to face and figure out how to respond. I think it's the same with pastors, as well as God.

We may not like what is presented to us... it doesn't mean there's not an application to made to our lives that will bring about a healthy benefit as a result.

So... pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday, that in these ever-changing all-too fast times in society, that Pastors would be strengthened and encouraged in their ministry; to preach the whole counsel of God. Pray for wisdom and tact to deliver the Word of God with a love and passion to see people come into deeper relationship with God through Christ; not beat them over the head, using the Bible to bring on human guilt. Pray for discernment, as they study to prepare sermons and devotionals, that there would be a fresh anointing for each service; not relying on the impact of the previous. May their be a boldness in their ministry, to trust the work of the Holy Spirit to move on the hearts and minds of those who hear... not to respond with offense and frustration; but to be drawn, to the goodness and patience of God, understanding He is both love and just.

May the truth go forth. Indeed, may God's Word not return void, but accomplish in full what it was sent out to accomplish, in the hearts and minds of those God desperately desires to seek; to save; to know... through what Christ did on the cross. The ability for us to know God.

- PNC

As we've prayed in recent weeks, on a couple of occasions, my youth pastor friend preached yesterday morning, his last Sunday before officially starting his new role as Senior Pastor.

Both in his message, as well as the altar time that followed as the church surrounded he and his wife in prayer, so much of life is about stewardship. Is the church; followers of Jesus Christ, living in such a manner that "makes much of Christ".

Often focused on the topic of finances, the church rarely discusses stewardship in light of the areas of life which have been entrusted to our care.

Our jobs. Whatever you do, work as unto the Lord.
Our kids. Children are an inheritance from the Lord.
Our neighbors. As you have done unto the least of these, you've done unto me.
Our ministry...make the most of every opportunity, for the days are evil.

As I stated the other day and have many times before, God does not waste. We go through circumstances for a reason. We endure challenging difficulties, often feeling as though we have been left in the dark. For a season, we may lack wisdom. For a time, there may be confusion. But whatever it is and for however long it lasts, there is a plan. There is a purpose.

As we grow in faith, as we learn more about the character of God, as we become more like Christ... it becomes increasingly apparent that our lives on earth are a partnership with God. He is at work in our lives in order that we may do His work, as we live life in ways that direct a lost and dying world back to the person of Jesus Christ.

For He is not will that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. Thus, it is imperative, that there be an authentic faith resident in our lives, made apparent to the world, that is properly aligned with the Word of God in order that their may be a drawing towards God rather than further pushing people away.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors and parishioners alike, would indeed walk in faith in wisdom, for indeed the days are increasingly evil. May we remember the importance to make the most of every opportunity to make much of Christ. Pray for the conduct of the church; that faith would arise, that faith would mature in ways that bring greater glory to God. May a world and a culture desperately in need of God be drawn to Him through the word of our testimony; through the simplicity of the Gospel; through the redemptive work of Calvary. Pray God guard our hearts and minds; that our focus remain on who you are and what you have for us to accomplish, rather than caught up in self and matters of vanity. Help us be better stewards, with the knowledge, love, testimony, time and talent that you have entrusted to us... to be used by you in greater dimensions than ever before.

For the glory of God. For the cause of Jesus Christ. Be glorified in our lives, for You alone are worthy.

- PNC

There were a couple of moments throughout Sunday, that I thought I might have a direction or two for #seniorPastorMonday. Then something showed up in my social media news-feed.

A church, in a town I just spent a couple hours in on Saturday, held its' last Sunday service. On Tuesday, their doors will close. Not because they aren't paying bills. Not because there is no pastor. No... the reason... they are not growing.
In number.

It's a very small, yet very tight-knit community church. In a community where people either attend much larger churches or don't attend at all. Yet, they all like the church being there. As if that wasn't enough of a sadness element to the story...

...the church was about to witness its' 100th year in existence!! After 99 years of ministry... closed.

I had no idea of this until yesterday, so I'm not sure to chalk this up to something along the lines of the prophetic, but you can read the #deaconThursday prayer post here, titled The Higher-Ups.

Such is the case here. The governing body for this particular denomination is unsatisfied that for the past number of years, perhaps as many as 10-15, if I recall reading correctly, that they have held steady under 35 church members and 20-40 in attendance on a regular basis. Those numbers aside, the church is operational. Current on financial responsibilities. They've made greater efforts to reach the community with the current pastor than any other pastor the church has had in recent history. And for those who are there, they are learning and growing in their faith and living and supporting each other manage and battle the joys and struggles of life. 

Even writing this... just thinking about it is heart-breaking. It's causing me to not know how to proceed in bring this prayer post to a close.  Hang on...

Okay, I'm back.

It's cause for prayer on many levels. It's one thing, and hard enough, when someone willingly goes in search of a new church. It's hard enough when a pastor takes on a new ministry or church from a call of God to move elsewhere. It's devastating enough when a pastor has to find or figure out something else from burnout or a life failure.

Parishioners will be checking out nearby churches out of force. The pastor and staff will be unemployed, out of force.

And since the church does sit on some prime property in the area and apparently has been approached by other churches interested in keeping it for church use, the big concern is the destruction of this edifice for commercial or residential use. The church has been on this property since the 60's. On the surface, one can't help but wonder what has transpired and the motivation behind it.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for this church body and the pastor. May God grant to them wisdom and discernment, where their next place is, within the Christian community and ministry. Pray that God be glorified in the outcomes that follow this decision; whether the closure is God's will or not, may this be an opportunity for healthy Christians to find a greater level of trust in Him who is able to make ALL THINGS work TOGETHER for GOOD, for those who LOVE HIM and ARE CALLED according to HIS PURPOSE. Pray against a spirit of bitterness and resentment... that no one would allow this as an opportunity for the devil to get a foothold and negate the good work that has been done. Pray for wisdom for the governing body as they proceed in this process. Finally, pray for other churches, facing similar circumstances. For the pastors struggling to keep churches afloat. For the congregations in difficult communities. For any hindrance in the churches abilities to be effective, reach the lost and strengthen the body of Christ... may the greatness of a difficulty prompt an even greater level that God can and will accomplish the miraculous, in ways, by means that can not be explained by human logic.

Truth in the Lord. In all your ways, lean not on your own understanding; but seek His face, and He will direct your paths.
May that be the decision of every Christian-at-large, and every person affected by the closure of this church. For the glory of God.

- PNC