"This means war. And the battle's still raging. War." -Petra

Satan has always... always been out to destroy the family. Petra reminds us in their song, This Means War, from their album of the same name, that Satan "took a third of all Heaven, when he went to Hell."

He sought to destroy the very family of Heaven before their was a family on Earth to conspire against.  That said, he knows his fate is sealed. So he has nothing except to keep people from sealing their fate with Christ; for Christ.

Anything to keep kids from becoming healthy, functioning adults. Let alone, followers of Christ.

Anything to keep followers of Christ from establishing healthy, functional homes; where kids witness first-hand, a genuine faith in Christ and a passion for the things of God.

Anything... to keep people from becoming people of God; more specifically, effective people of God who fulfill not only the calling God has placed upon them, but bear witness to the goodness and grace of God with any and all who they come in contact.

Frustrated. Stressed. Distracted. Angry. Bitter. Unfulfilled.

Anything that discounts and detracts from the work of God in our lives and His purpose being carried out for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Of course, like any other battle, war is hard on everyone. But perhaps for none less, than those on the front line. For what good are the soldiers without those leading them into battle?

So, we pray, on this #youthPastorWednesday, for pastors who are feeling the effects of the war within their own lives and families. May God strengthen and restore their hearts and minds; granting discernment in the difficulty and challenges they face. For their ministries, may God grant to them grace and understanding as they teach, challenge and work with kids and youth. Pray God's protection over their lives; that whatever was meant to distract, detour and derail them would fail. May the anointing of the Holy Spirit rest upon them, as they live under the power of God at work in their lives, their homes and churches; impacting the communities and culture-at-large with the truth of God and the love of Christ.

Indeed, this is war.
Spiritual warfare being displayed to a physical world.
But greater is He who is in us
Then the enemy of our souls at work against us.
No power on earth, can take His love away.
God be for us.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Pastor preached a great message as we get ever closer to Easter... on the topic of choices. He delivered quite a powerful message, as he spoke from the perspective of Christ on trial and the question of "what will we do with Christ", which is what the government leaders asked at the time, knowing Christ had done nothing wrong.

Certainly, this question dominates our lives in light of eternity; technically it does so twice. Once from the perspective of our sinful state and for those who confess Christ as Lord, from our redeemed state.

For all the choices that come secondary to that question, some still able to affect eternity and many others that won't, choices can be difficult to make... and even more difficult to live with, once they've been made.

My list is getting quite long.
Things I wish I hadn't done.
More things I wish I had done differently.

What's difficult, is that such realizations and reminders often come on the heels of a situation or circumstance that is fresh in your mind and weighs on your heart; that you wish you could do over or have a second chance to reconsider.

This is especially true as we were reminded of the lesson Ronald Reagan learned as a child... not making a choice is making a choice; and eventually someone will make it for you.

How much more difficult for leadership... if the choices we make for ourselves are taxing; the choices we make as parents and adults, confusing; the choices we make as children and employees, just plain wrong, the struggle for leadership and the impact it makes on the lives of those who follow is incredible.

Then there are pastors... where souls are at stake and eternity hangs in the balance. Where people's faith is strengthened and encouraged or weakened and discouraged. Where communities are impacted with the Gospel of Christ and transformed or hardened as a result. Pressure abounds as do expectations. The stakes are high and so is the level of regret... and the rate of burnout as a result.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for pastors struggling in the choices and decisions they face, even this very day. In their homes, marriages and ministries, may God grant them wisdom and strength in the face of confusion and complexities. Pray a grace over their missteps and mistakes; may regrets not overtake their hearts and minds, but the peace of God that surpasses all understanding. May God lead and guide them, as they daily lay their lives at the Cross of Christ; surrender to Him and desirous to do His will. Pray a renewed faith and trust in God's ability and promise to use ALL things, for His glory according to His purpose... for He knows the plans He has for us, having accounted for our broken and sinful condition.

Strength in the face of regret
Confidence in the face of mistakes.
Hope in the future, despite our past.
That we choose Christ first.
Seeking the face of God and His righteousness
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

So we had a great family day yesterday... right up until the very late end. Having to step away from the chaos, I sat on the "colder-than-what-I-thought-it-was-outside" patio surfing the 'net and Craigslist. Meanwhile, I turned on the The Healing Rock radio station, where they were playing their Saturday night show, Vector.

I missed the first portion of the show, maybe the first half, I don't know... but the founder of the station network was interviewing a couple of people and they were discussing their difficulties with the church. Specifically, how it's hard sometimes to be genuine.

We all step in happy and ready to go to church, excited to worship. People ask how we are doing and have to respond with positive thoughts rather than the negative reality.

When truth be told... we'd rather not tell it. For who wants to hear the struggles and frustrations of life on the day we come together to celebrate Christ?

"No, I'm not having a great morning... my kids fought us on getting ready for church!"
"My blood pressure is up just thinking about whether we'll have an argument on the way!"

Comedian Jeff Foxworthy jokes, about how by the time he gets to church, he NEEDS church, cause he's done yelled at everybody on the way there!

(I shouldn't insert my own reality of what just happened 10 seconds ago.... but that was funny. Even if I'm the only one laughing. Only the sovereign timing of God could make the smile on my face exist right now.... as I just realized that same radio station is currently playing Perfect Timing by Sweet Comfort Band)

But seriously... it's just as hard not to be dismissive in our short, passing responses to people as much as their honest brevity in passing, "no, I'm not really doing that great this morning".

We don't want to feel as though we have to put up a front, but church morning's are busy and there's a schedule and a format. Who has time to take out 5 or 10 minutes to sit in the lobby or the cafe and say, this circumstance and frustration is immediate and raw and I need help in dealing with it?

Yes, I'll give it to God and respond to the altar and go up for prayer... or maybe I won't, even though I need to; but man... if someone could help talk me through this, wow.

Efficiency is often equated with speed and quickness, but we often forget that getting something done in 30 minutes that normally takes an hour is also efficient. And while effectiveness can occur in a short matter of seconds, more often than not, effectiveness comes from a habit of pattern and an investment of time.

Caring takes time. Effective care takes discernment to know when the time should be short and when it's appropriate for a longer investment.

We all have battles and struggles. Whether it's because we don't speak for we know other people have bigger and more challenging lives, thus we pale in comparison or we think others are too busy, that they'd rather not be bothered by our interruption... both are wrong. Life is not a competition of who's life is harder or worse off; nor should we not converse because someone seemingly has it altogether and so we recluse.

We are all in God's garage. We are all being restored. If any comparison is made, it's that those further along in the restoration process are able to testify; if God brought me this far from when I came in, how amazing is what awaits on the other side of the process for your life.

*longer blog = shorter prayer?

Can we pray this #effectiveSunday, for the body of Christ to be real people. Real struggles. Real faith. Real friends. Coming together to a Real God. May we take the time to express genuine care and concern. Pray we would be the hands and feet of Christ to those around us; helping people through the process and journey God is taking them. May we testify to those who come behind us to the goodness and greatness of God. For even when the road is hard, God is with us. May the church exist to be an ever-present reminder of the truth... God will never leave us, nor forsake us.

Effective for the kingdom of God.
Because we make the investment of time.
Speaking life to dead and dying places.
That Christ may bring healing and restoration
To our broken condition.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Quite some time, a made a decision to leave my radio off while at work (having a job where I could have the radio blasting all day and nobody would care) And by quite sometime, I think it might be like a year and half... which for a music lover, is a long time.

About a week or two ago, while talking with my friend, we were discussing life and he suggested, I needed to get out of my head. Perhaps, I should consider turning the radio back on. K-Love or Smile.FM.  Something Christian and positive to get some encouragement and spiritual uplifting rather than my mind running 100mph in 10 different directions.

Though nobody plays the great Classic Christian Rock I'm used to having, I did get hooked on a couple of "new" bands and one station played the latest from Michael W. Smith! However, in my channel surfing yesterday, a secular station played Land of Confusion, by Genesis. I like Phil Collins' music, if for no other reason there is something definitely 80's about his music. Perhaps it's all his appearances on the classic television series, Miami Vice.

But catch the chorus on this...

There's too many men // Too many people
Making too many problems // And not much love to go round
Can't you see // This is a land of confusion.

This is the world we live in // And these are the hands we're given
Use them and let's start trying // To make it a place worth living in.

This is the time // This is the place
So we look for the future // But there's not much love to go round
Tell me why, this is a land of confusion.


Now this is the world we live in // And these are the hands we're given
Use them and let's start trying // To make it a place worth fighting for.

This is the world we live in // And these are the names we're given
Stand up and let's start showing  // Just where our lives are going to.

How incredibly profound. Not much has changed from 1986, has it?

Still too many people making too many problems.
Still not enough love to go around.
Indeed, this world is more confusing and confused now than it was 30 years ago! (I feel old just being able to say that)
This is our reality.
And yet in many ways, we've failed to show up and show where are lives are going.

As we engage the community, may this be the heart of the church. We have these hands and the earth is His and all the people in it. They are worth fighting for, for eternity hangs in the balance. We go to all kinds of specialists, in every arena and area of life and circumstance to make things right, yet, as the DJ stated yesterday, where do people turn to heal a broken soul?

That is the part of life that matters, Phil, just where our lives are going to.

So join with me and pray, this #communitySaturday. May the people of God stand up and show, our lives in light of eternity and the sovereign plan of God that none should perish, but all come to repentance. May we impact the world we live in with the love of God and the Gospel of Christ. May our names reflect the work of Christ in our lives, as he has healed our soul's broken condition. May the church be among those who do not create problems, but offer solutions; indeed the only solution that matters. For Christ is the answer to the question posed at the beginning of time.

What if all creation goes awry?
Christ is not plan B.
In this land of confusion, He is... all there is.
Thanks be unto God.

- PNC

Welcome!

Thanks so much for joining us, for another #missionsFriday. I still can't believe how fast time is flying. Tomorrow marks the 23 consecutive month of posting these daily prayers and I'm grateful for those of you who are supporting your pastors and ministries through prayer.

I was greatly encouraged by yesterday's "verse of the day". The New American Standard states Hebrews 6:10 with these words:

"For God is not unjust so as to forget your work and the love which you have shown toward His name, in having ministered and in still ministering to the saints."

Isn't that a great verse? For every once in a while, when we all have those days where we wonder if our lives are truly making an impact... not only to the unsaved around us, but also to encourage and uplift the fellow believers with whom we share life; God remembers our efforts in strengthening His kingdom.

Of course, there are many more who have served and minister much more than I.

And on this #missionsFriday, I felt led, to put a different twist... praying specifically for evangelists, apostles and prophets.

The men and women who hold these positions within the church to bring incredible insight and wisdom; strengthening and ministering to the body of Christ. Yes, their efforts reached the lost as well, but they also call us to greater understanding and deeper faith in our walk with God as we are transformed by the power of Christ at work in our lives. These are invaluable offices; gifts really that God has blessed us with the opportunity to hear, engage and receive from Him. And they need our support just as much, prayerfully and otherwise.

So, let us pray this #missionsFriday, for evangelists, apostles and prophets... for the unique circumstances and challenges they face for their ministries. May they be strengthened and encouraged even this hour. May God provide and protect, in their travels, in the time away from family, that God would be their source, for all they have need of each and every day. Pray for opportunities and doors to be open; that God would direct their paths and where He would desire to place them for such a time as this. May the church be challenged and changed anew, as these speak into and over the body of Christ; proclaiming the good news and the greatness of God... to greater depths and higher heights in our faith in Him.

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

- PNC

Isn't life great?

We don't always know in advance, (more often than not, actually) what the day has in store; what will happen, where things will go and the time and space that will need to be allocated to manage and handle it all. So you try to forecast and predict as best you can.

Then things change. And you find out, all to quickly, that not everything will fit. There simply isn't enough room, nor time. And so changes have to been made. Things have to be re-arranged.

It's not a fun process, granted. It requires extra thought. Extra planning. Perhaps even extra input and help from others, as the complexities can mount fast.

Likewise, as it happens in external circumstances, so too, does it happen internally, in our hearts, minds and desires. While we can try to force issues and make it work on our own, often it's best if we submit ourselves to God and ask for His help and guidance in where things need to go.

Out of balance and out of alignment... and we have to find our way back to Him, as David Zaffiro just started singing. (such a cool song!)

So, will you pray with me this #deaconThursday? Pray for deacons and admins, struggling with circumstances and situations, the complexities of which are quickly becoming overwhelming matters. May God give them wisdom and guidance; bring direction and clarity where rearrangements need to be made. Whether in their plans or in their lives, may there be a continued willingness for the Spirit of God to place His finger on matters that are out of balance and alignment with where God would have them to be and what He has for them to accomplish. May their efforts not be hindered by the process, but the perfecting work of Christ would propel them to greater impact for the kingdom of God.

Balance... in the right place at the right time.
For our lives.
For our homes.
For our families
For our ministries.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

The History Channel has been running quite a few re-runs of the incredibly popular show, American Pickers. I absolutely love this show. Mike and Frank, the proprietors of Antique Archaeology are priceless. The show is quite entertaining and incredibly informative.

As I considered this post, it dawned on me what makes their business work. A number of factors are obviously involved, but from a perspective of effective and efficient, knowledge is key.

They've been at this game a long time, so their expertise quite extensive. The wealth of knowledge they possess, is not only mind-boggling, but they use ever bit of it to do their job well... in terms of both effectiveness and efficiency.

Granted, they have items here and there where the lose a few bucks, but the remain overwhelmingly consistent in the ability to turn a profit as they dig for rusty treasures buried in people's garages and barns.

For the times and things they don't know what they are looking at, they know who to call or who they need to find to be able to employ help... which gives them even more information, to use on the next pick. It truly is an art and an amazing process to watch. Of course, their friendship is hilarious as well.

All of this got me thinking about matters of faith. How much more effective and efficient could the church and Christians be if we were more informed and knowledgeable about our faith, about Scripture, about other religions in order to be well-versed in arguments against Christianity... the list goes on.

Furthermore, even in my own life; what are the things I know more and spend more time on that is causing me to "be behind" in faith matters and my relationship with God? Well, the list exists and we'll leave it at that. Perhaps there's a list for you? I'm sure we will sit by someone shortly in service, that if they were honest with themselves, they have such a list.

So, pray this #effectiveSunday, that we would present our lists before the throne of grace. May God help us to grow in our faith, in the fear and knowledge of the Lord. Pray that we would not be hindered nor set-back, by other matters, topics and interests that have taken priority over our faith and the things of God. May we be challenged to be more effective and efficient in our Christianity. May the strength of God quicken us as the Holy Spirit works in our lives anew and afresh; as we are transformed and renewed to reflect the person of Jesus Christ to a greater degree.

For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
As we seek Him first
And His kindgom.

- PNC

We are desire a relationship. More importantly, we all desire healthy relationships. Be it romantic in nature, or a friendship, familial or work-related, nobody wakes up and says the equivalent of 'today, I want to be dismissed, ignored, disrespected and disgraced, abused or neglected'.

We long for love, grace and forgiveness. We seek acceptance. We desire a confidant. And we know that a healthy relationship is one that will make us a better person, for who wants to hang out with someone who makes them worse off than when they met?

Enter Jesus Christ.

And we question his existence. We reject the truth He speaks. We deny our sinful state in light of His sacrifice. And point to others whose relationship was "unhealthy" as cause for your staying away. It's logic that's on par with the reasons people offer  to not get married or not work professionally with friends and family.

Yet, relationship with God through Jesus Christ is direct. Yes, the body of Christ is interwoven, but it's hard to speak objectively on the health of someone else' relationship from one's own unhealthiness.

As I considered these things yesterday, I came home last night and later read a post on social media, about Christianity being the American Taliban.

Here's the difference.
Christ and those who suffer persecution for His sake did and do so in the hopes that others may have life eternal.

I don't wish ill-will on those who disagree with the Gospel... for it speaks daily to Christians, who struggle with the truth it presents, for it brings illumination to things in our life that we now must confront. There is working through it with the help of Christ. There is turning away sad, as the rich young ruler, who did not like what Christ presented.

One response desires health. The other, desires the status quo.
The love of Christ demands a response... not by force or bullying; He will wait for one. But one day everyone will give one.

So, pray this #misssionsFriday, that today would be a day of response, to the truth and love of Christ. Pray for those who've yet to hear the Good News of Christ; that their response to the invitation of eternal life would be one of health and that a solid foundation of faith would be laid, drawing them ever closer to the presence and power of God in their lives. As the truth of God continues to confront things in our lives that are out of alignment, may the church continue to seek His face and respond from a position of health. May offense and rejection not gain a foothold, but that we would continue to allow Christ to work in our lives; that we may greater reflect His image to a world desperately lost... and in need of a healthy relationship with the One true Savior.

Not my will,
But thine be done.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ
Whose blood was shed that we might have life and life eternal.

- PNC

It's interesting to reflect and consider career tracks and job decisions... how do people end up where they are; how do they choose where they go, what they should do, which position should they accept. Some people have the coolest and most interesting gigs.

Then, there's the rest of us! Overwhelmed. Frustrated. Stressed. Some combination of over-worked and under-paid... or paid well, but still too much hassle for the money. But all of it got me thinking...

Does anyone say "I wanna work in the church offices when I grow up?" Sure there's a need for great office staff and administrators and others who work to keep the church operational; just as much as any organization needs qualified people to keep things running smooth.

Hopefully people are stepping in and filling these positions because they do love their church and the people of God and want to make a difference utilizing their skills and resources for the ministry. But it's just as easy to see how someone could do the job simply because there is an opening and they need the work... which very well could have an element of truth to the reality of the matter.

As I considered this perspective yesterday while behind the wheel, I zoomed out the screen of my GPS. Sadly, life doesn't work like this. We rarely, if ever, see the complete picture of where God is leading us, from beginning to end. Turn-by-turn directions... what are those for the life of faith?

Indeed, the Lord does direct our steps; His Word a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Which means we usually have very little notice of any turns or changes on the road that lies ahead. To those around us, this is the automotive equivalent of braking and making the turn, flipping on the turn signal as we begin cranking the steering wheel... "Oh, we're going this way, I guess!"

Knowing what God has in store for you; figuring out where you are supposed to be and trying to decipher how to bring your reality into alignment with God's plan is difficult. Certainly, it's a struggle, especially when it feels that there are pieces missing... as if a couple of turns weren't included on the GPS. Or perhaps they were a little vague. "Turn on unnamed road in 0.2 miles."

And we apologize to those around us for the abrupt change. But it reinforces our need for God's help. It establishes our need to seek Him first and trust Him with all our heart. Though we may want to back down and jump off, the journey is worth it, for those who stay the course.

Pray, this #deaconThursday for church staff struggling in the positions they hold. For those, whose heart perhaps in not in their work, would God strengthen and encourage them. Pray reassurance that God has a plan for their lives and a kingdom-purpose for their skills. May God grant them guidance and wisdom, as to whether they are or aren't where God desires for their lives. Pray for peace in their spirits where there is unrest. Calm where there is fear. Patience where there is anxiety. Pray a faithfulness for each of us, as we wait on God; trusting in Him anew and seeking His face. May we do well what is in front of us to do now while we await the "this is what's next".

Standing on the promises of God
Trusting in His timing.
For His thoughts and ways are higher than ours.
May we rely on His truth
To illuminate our reality.
For His glory and service, we pray.

- PNC

In talking with a wood-smith yesterday, we got to discussing what causes custom pieces to separate, crack or split. His first response... change in environment. Specifically, temperature.

Dramatic changes. Major shifts. Little to zero adjustment period.

Sometimes, certain changes cause damage; even to the point useless beyond repair.

In a word: environment.

Such is life. Major, unexpected changes cause shock to our systems. Health. Finances. Emotions.
In adulthood, it's problematic to say the least.
In childhood, it's traumatic... to say the least.

Even from a foundation of faith as well as a position in ministry, life can catch us off guard.
The stresses and changes cause scars and dents; cracks and splits to the very fabric of our being.

Some may be "easy" fixes.
Others may require some serious investment and work.
The most significant may require the hands of a master craftsman.

Thankfully, for the soul and spirit of humanity, there is Christ.

Carpenter by trade.
Savior from birth.

While Satan has purposed from the beginning to destroy humanity at the earliest possible time, Jesus Christ was planned from the beginning to redeem humanity.

While in the moment this might be hard to remember, for those in place their trust in God and those whose vocation is the advance of His kingdom, it should be at the forefront of our minds. No matter what comes against, no matter what may cause damage; by the power of God we are not beyond repair.

So, pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, for those pastors feeling overwhelmed by the stress and struggle of life. For the situations and circumstances that have caused cracks and splits in the very fabric of their being, whether by their own decision or affected by others, may the spirit of God would strengthen and renew their hearts and minds. May the not be overtaken by frustration or depression, anxiety nor fear; but that hope would arise and stand within them. May they be assured and even reassured, of the plans and purposes for which they have been called and instill the same, in the lives of the young people to which they minister.

For what the devil planned for evil,
May God use for good.
To those who love Him.
Called according to His purpose.
In service to the kingdom of God.
For His glory and the cause of Jesus Christ.
The carpenter of our lives; Savior of our souls.

- PNC

I should have known, as I seriously considered that God might be using the "verse of the day" as a basis for this post, that some element of it would appear in my life quickly.

James 3:16
-- For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.

Right in the middle is where I found myself, in case your curious. Strife and confusion. But nothing my headphones and The Healing Rock radio station, courtesy of The Healing Stream Media Network couldn't help relieve and buoy my spirits.

Interestingly enough, James says, envy. It's close relative jealousy, involves the thought that one was more rightly deserving. Envy involves the want or coveting of something that has simply been awarded or achieved by another. Whether I deserve it is a mute point... I'm simply discontent that you have it or obtained it.

Perhaps strife is a bit strong for my experience. I don't know that it qualifies as vigorous and bitter conflict (probably not, actually) but to consider the mixing of envy and bitter conflict and the problems that follow are both obvious and unpredictable.

We have seemingly perfected the art of comparison and yet, it controls us to the point of creating stress and tension... confusion ultimately, and getting it sorted out is never easy.

Kids do this well. Comparison comes naturally. And quickly. If not handled properly, it sets them up for a life of continued discontentment... such that bitterness will set in and create conflicts quick enough to make one's head spin. I'm amazed at how often I am faced with my own discontentment in light of where others are in life. I'm not sure if it was any easier before social media, but Facebook certainly has not helped this epidemic.

Sadly, it does and has crept into the church and the very fabric of ministry. As much as organizations boast of increased sales, gained market share and improved customer or employee retention, so to churches... talk of increased attendance, explosive youth groups and amazing vacation bible school programs.

What a dangerous message to send to the next generation of adults, that we have not only figured out how to handle (or mishandle, rather) discontent in our home, but that we've allowed it to present itself within the church. Conflict ensues, confusion results and now the enemy has access to destroy, as the opening has been created for other evils to enter.

Well... now we know how to pray! On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray a spirit of contentment; in who were are people, and as believers... as the children of God. May we live by example and put behind us envy (and jealousy, for that matter). Though we will face difficulty and conflict in our lives, may the Holy Spirit help us, that it would not create bitterness within us, whereby dominating both word and deed; action and reaction. Pray a constant reminder that our identity is in Christ and we are His. May we do well, to teach and instill the same,  both in our homes, and our youth and children's ministries. Pray a consistency among the people of God, that while we are not perfect, we do call on God and rely on Him to help us live a life pleasing to Him, displaying the love of Christ to a world being destroyed by the evil within.

May we overcome evil with God.
By the power of God
And the love of Jesus Christ at work in our hearts.
Content, not because of our self,
But who we are in Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I had an epiphany last night, as I considered what God had in store for today's post. As I reflected on a somewhat quiet day at home (battling a headache and my wife being under the weather), I realized the inspiration my kids provided. For as they played, the day was not nearly as quiet as I had hoped.

On this #effectiveSunday, I'll be the first to admit... how much do I miss, not so much because God isn't speaking, but because I'm not listening. Every parent knows this struggle. Anyone who watches kids for longer than 5 minutes, quickly discovers this.

It's easy to get caught up in activities and games, shenanigans and foolery... messing around and having fun. It's what kids do.

Yet, as adults, we have our  moments. Some days, not so many; other days, many more.

At some point, we catch ourselves with a sobering sense of reality... while we were caught up in whatever activity we were engaged it, did we miss what God said? Did we miss what He asked of us? Did we miss what He spoke over us? Did we miss His direction or declaration?

Is God frustrated? Has He called on someone else, because of our distraction?

Questions that only can be answered on an individual basis... in our quiet time with God. But answering them will bring insight into our effectiveness as the body of Christ.

Shall we pray, this #effectiveSunday, that God would help us to be aware of His Word and it's influence in our lives. May we be careful in the situations and circumstances we find ourselves, to keep our ears attuned to the voice of the Spirit; that we would not be so caught in the moment that we hear God speak. Though we have a child-like faith, may we have a mature mind, understanding the will of God, not only for our personal lives, but also for the church-at-large.

May the family of God
Function as a family.
Not full of strife and sickness,
But health and wholeness, love and discipline
Not fighting against each other, but working together
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Winds have ripped through my home state in the past 24 hours causing major power outages scattered abroad. So severe is the damage, the utility company is reporting this is the worst in their history, with over a million customers left in the dark.

My best friend said this morning, as soon as the first power line fell, the utility began calling for back-up from two or three states over; in hopes that upon their arrival, the storm would be over and they could get a jump on assessing the situation and getting grids brought back online.

Despite people's best efforts to make the most of a frustrating situation, being left in the dark isn't very fun. Sure, the candles and blankets are romantic, depending on if any kids are around, in which case it's just loads of fun, unless they are easily frightened. Staying with family and friends is a joy until someone realizes why you don't live in the same neighborhood in the first place.

We love you, but I'd like my space back. (if anything, I'm more likely to hear this than to say it, but I guess that might depend on who was over, if I were the host). You know how it goes.

As I consider though, the plight of the western world being left dark, I couldn't help but be reminded of the spiritual plight of this world... left in the eternal darkness short of living a life illuminated by the truth of the Gospel of Christ.

For inasmuch as the utility company was scrambling for reinforcements and skilled labor to bring towns and communities back "on-line", so to, the church needs to be scrambling to bring people "in-line" to God through the person of Jesus Christ.

I for one, know I should and could be doing more. Yet, in this technology-driven world (as my phone charges via my laptop, my youngest stands by grandpa playing with her leapfrog tablet and the oldest sits with grandma playing on her kid kindle fire), it's easy... perhaps too much so, to not be concerned about those going without the luxuries of this modern age. How much do we consider their plight should they miss the eternal luxury of heaven by being left in the vast darkness of eternity outside of the presence of the glory of God.

May it not be so. The utility company spent almost the entire day before they started issuing estimated times for power restoration. May we not lose any time in delaying the opportunity to tell people how much longer they are to wait in spiritual darkness.

For as much as we want the lights turned on (and now), all the more, may people desire a spiritual awaking to the light of Christ. For we are His light to the world.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that it would be a day of spiritual light-switches being flicked on towards God. May many lives be activated as the truth of God's Word illuminates hearts and minds. Pray that the blinders of this life would be cast aside and the desire for the light of Jesus Christ to transform our lives. May we not be distracted by the temporal pleasures and set-backs of this earth, but focused on the joys of heaven, content with the blessings of God that He has bestowed upon humanity.

May the people of God work as tirelessly as the linemen
That hearts would be brought online to the things of God
Long before we worry about whether power grid is functional.
For whatever power this earth produces; it pales in comparison
To the power of God at work in the lives of humanity.
For those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Life can truly be difficult at time, can't it? Sure for obvious reasons, every one would agree. You look at situations and circumstances, and no matter who you are, you would look and say, "Wow."

For the rest of the time though, I think we make life difficult through the simple act of comparison. I'm the worst at this... and have been for as long as I can remember, sadly.

It an increasingly competitive time and the massive advances in technology and lifestyle, it's hard not to look at other people's journeys and wish you were in a different place or that your journey wasn't what it was. Not just in every day life, but also in matters of faith. We can wish we were more spiritually mature, more involved and engaged in the church or ministry... more (insert your spiritual battle here)

We make these comparisons from the pew. Pastors make them from the pulpit.

Followers look to their leaders more than Who is leading the leader.
Leaders can fall trap to focusing more than their following (particularly, the size of it) and forget who they are following.

Mentors are awesome and I'm a firm believer in everyone having someone "farther along" in their journey of life and faith speaking into someone else. But at the end of the day, I keep coming back to the encouragement of Paul.

"Follow me, as I follow Christ."

This is not a blind following. We should be close enough to recognize when the one person we follow is amiss in how they follow Christ. If don't fall prey to the trap of comparison and each, focus on our own relationship with Christ, rather than others and where they (or we) may or may not be in that walk, much of life would simplify itself.

Would you join me, as we pray this #associatePastorTuesday. Pray for wisdom; that pastors would know where, when and with whom they serve in ministry together. May they not fall trap to comparison living, but grow and strengthen their faith as they keep their eyes on God. Pray destruction and disaster would be avoided; that pastors would not get caught up in the following, nor would the followers be led astray. May the people of God resist the temptation to live a comparison life to others and focus on what God is doing in our life as we stand in light of Christ.

For we are not conformed to the image of our neighbor,
But the image of our Savior.
That God would be glorified among us
As we live for Him alone.
For He alone is God.

- PNC

Resurrection Band wrote a song by this title for their Innocent Blood album and while it's both a great and simple song, sadly for our friends at our Bridgepoint Church, in southeastern Michigan, the song become a reality.

Yesterday afternoon, there was smoke on the holy ground, as multiple fire departments responded to the call... their house was on fire. Taking out the sanctuary, daycare facilities and offices among the damaged, witnesses say the sad moment of truth was when the steeple toppled through the roof.

I can't imagine.

Some parishioners have attended the church for 40 plus years.

Miracle, of miracles, no events where being held on the campus at the time of the blaze and the community has already circled around them in support. Services for the 400 member church are being held at one of the local school facilities.

Which brings us to this #effectiveSunday. It's easy to look at an organization and ministry and think of how much more could be done with more money, more space, more equipment, resources or people. And while God uses those things to advance the kingdom and His people to proclaim, the effectiveness of ministry is in the people and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Though the buildings are nice and the technology is great, it is the people coming together to worship God and hear His Word that allows for a church to be equipped to impact their community.

Thus, on this sad, yet glorious morning, pray this #effectiveSunday that the body of Christ would be quickened and strengthened as we come together to glorify God. Despite great tragedy and loss, may the words of our testimony point a lost world to the person of Christ. Though we don't have the answers may our lives point to truth; that God is sufficient for all that we have need. May today be a celebration in God's provision in the past and the promise of the future; that He has plans and purpose for our lives, of hope and a future and not of harm. Pray for the leadership and congregation of Bridgepoint; may today be a day of new beginnings in what God would desire to accomplish through this loss. May their ministry return and recovery exponentially, as it did for Job.

For it is God who works in all things;
Beyond our understanding.
According to His riches in glory,
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

Well, the sickness bug has been making it's rounds at our place. And beyond the common cold once or twice a season, we really don't battle major sickness. But for the past few weeks, we haven't been able to kick this garbage. Of course, as it usually is, I'm the last one to get hit which started yesterday morning.

So, in hopes of going to bed early, since my day starts 7 hrs from now, I'm writing this post the night before... which I haven't done in quite a while. Oddly enough, the rainstorm is passing through, and I felt prompted this morning that this post would discuss the storms of life. Ironic?

Indeed, when it rains, it often pours; both figuratively and literally.

The stresses of life and the occasional sickness that wears us down; they often coincide. None of us are immune. It rains on the just and the unjust, the righteous and the wicked. An unpopular concept in this politically correct mindset, but the truth remains. Good things happen to people, who on the surface may not deserve it; just as much as horrific things happen to people who deserve "better."

In the midst of all of it, life continues. Bills. Repairs. Scheduling conflicts. Work worries. Tiredness. Exhaustion. Short-fused attitudes. Don't get me wrong; life is full of joy and happiness, laughter and contentment, peace and rest. But the realities of the toll life can take on our physical bodies, our mental state and our spiritual perspective can not be ignored. We find ourselves asking when the weather will change.

That said, the rain is refreshing. Life-giving. The struggles remind us, that we are alive. And it may not take much more than checking your bank account at the end of the month to remind us that our hope and our trust is not in ourselves or our abilities to endure, but in God... who provides all that we have need of according to His riches and glory.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday for pastors for whom life is raining. May their faith be encouraged as they continue to seek the face of God first, and His righteousness. Pray the storms of life that weigh them down would not discourage them, though such times may occur. May they be reminded that such storms give opportunity to testify of the goodness and greatness of God. For pastors of youth and kids; may their stories inspire hope and faith. Pray that their lives and testimonies would prompt young people into a relationship with God, through Jesus Christ and strengthen the faith of young people that they may live a life of great faith; of perseverance and trust. May God Almighty accomplish the miraculous, by His sovereign hand... that it times of doubt, uncertainty and many questions, the church would stand firm, confident in Christ as the Answer; the Author and Finisher of our Faith.

For indeed the rain will come.
May we be certain to build our faith
On the Rock of our Salvation.
For the glory of God.
Peace. In the midst of the storm.

- PNC

I Corinthians 15 is a pretty cool chapter, but as I considered what God had in store for this post, I couldn't shake the encouragement that verse 58 offers.

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, unmovable; always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as you know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord."

In the preceding verses, if I can boil it down, Paul essentially says that what Christ accomplished through His death and resurrection is possible because of who He is. If we are dead because of Adam, then we are alive because of Christ. However, without His death and resurrection, we have nothing. There is no witness, no testimony... no gospel to preach whereby man can be saved.

Paul goes on to explain many more spiritual truths, making the comparison between the physical and spiritual man before arrives to this place of encouragement, but he understands well, the power of the gospel as it transformed his life, from one known as a prosecutor of the faith to a protector of the faith.

Our victory in life is made possible the life of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The enemy would love for nothing less, than cracks in the armor of our faith; areas of weakness in our life, whereby he can distract us and use our frustrations and concerns against us to take us of course. Even to the point, that Paul witnesses in his day; that some were not preaching the full gospel (which is much of his explanation in this chapter) But whether the challenge of ministry lies in our understanding of the gospel or life has skewed our perspective of what God has and desires to accomplish in and through our lives, Paul's encouragement stands.

These are days in which pastors and parishioners alike must be steadfast; unmovable. The truth of Christ and the power of God is alive and at work in our midst and though the days may feel as such or attacked as such, the gospel of the kingdom of God, is not a vanity exercise, nor the labor with which we pursue it.

Join me, this #associatePastorTuesday; that pastors would be encouraged, to remain steadfast and unmovable. May God strengthen the weak and the weary among us; that Christ would be made alive in their body, mind, soul and spirit. Anew and afresh, may the be revitalized in their efforts to preach the Gospel and make Christ known. Pray the distractions and disruptions of life would not throw them of course; but they would continue the race, fighting the good fight of faith.

Steadfast and unmovable.
Not by the naysayers in life,
Nor the disruptions of it.
Preaching the full gospel
And the whole counsel of God.
In a world of darkness
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

For all the times that Christians look at life, look at their faith and consider just how often we wish God would reveal things to us... like we are having a hard time figuring out the mystery. Then there are those moments where it's pretty hard to miss.

Take this timeline, since about 9:30 or so, Saturday night.

The kids and my wife all have been hit and miss with the weather the past few days, so everyone is tired and just attempting to plow through. It's been frustrating and a little on edge. In talking with my wife that night, I simply shared my frustration... life just gets hard. And I mentioned our schedules and the importance of praying together.

I point out the last four words, as come Sunday morning, both kids still don't sound too great... so I'm flying solo to church. Pastor gets up and preaches a stand-alone sermon, titled Marriage Matters. (funny, God)

So, we all know divorce is high. Somewhere between 1 in 2 and 1 in 3 marriages, end in D.
However...

For those that attend church regularly, the odds drop... considerably. 1 in 155.
For those that attend church regularly, AND Pray Together regularly... how's this? 1 in 1155

Well, if that didn't put an exclamation point on things. Then fast forward a few hours. Taking the oldest to urgent care, to get her ear looked at. Two guys in a front of us, one with two young kids.
The first pharmacy across town is closed, so we head back to the 24 joint. Of course, there's one on both corner... I pick the one I frequent more often anyway. The guy with the two kids is also there.

In a moment of discussing life, and my frustration with sick kids and how this week may go, God drops a bomb on my parade. The man shares that he's getting a divorce. After 16 years, it's "going down fast". And here, essentially, I was complaining. Not anymore. My broken heart sank.

In the back of my mind, I can hear pastor. My wife and make it a priority to pray together every morning before we go our ways and on Mondays we have an extended time of prayer, sometimes as much as an hour to an hour and half, for our families, the church and your families.

Reducing the risk... the odds are favorable when prayer is involved. Not so much, when left out of the picture.

So there you have it. This #seniorPastorMonday, will you join me in prayer over marriages. For this stranger, pray God would strengthen him during this time and that God would sovereignly intervene for he and his family. Pray for pastors, that the demands of ministry would not take priority over their marriage and their home. May God place protection of their relationships and their children, than in spite of difficulty and challenge, they would resolve to come together and commit to prayer and seeking the face of God together. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous in the lives as the approach the throne of grace, as one. For those pastors whose marriages and home life is in trouble, may God grant them strength and wisdom; bringing healing and restoration as they work through the troubles they face. What Satan meant to destroy, may God work in them and through them to bring about good, for His glory and honor.

That God would fortify those whose hearts are set on Him;
Strengthen those who have committed their lives to ministry.
Though life is hard, may it not overtake and consume us.
That we would arise victorious;
As the hand of God, leads and directs in the plans He has ordained.
For His glory and the cause of Christ.

- PNC

So, I had an epiphany this morning, as I was getting ready for church (and now watching the clock to leave for the same!) Courtesy of the timing of God, the Healing Stream Media Network's "The Healing Rock" radio station and David Zaffiro, singing "Find My Way."

I love this song, particularly because of the piano work, but as it played, I considered the story of the Prodigal. Upon realizing the error of his ways, he knew what to do to correct it. He knew where to go to correct it. He knew how to get their; he knew the posture to take and the words to say, whereby he might plead his case, as he acknowledge his mistake in life and submitted his request for forgiveness.

Wow!

Aren't we the same way?

We know what's wrong.
We know what we should be doing, saying, completing.
We know how to respond.
We know to whom we should turn.
We know what we must confess.
We do, in fact, know where God is and how to get to Him.

Yet, all to often, we sit far too long in the mess in which we've created (and perhaps others have contributed to making for us). The "ah-ha" moment comes at different times for all of us, but thankfully, like the prodigal's father, neither does our Heavenly Father move or leave. He is the same God, in the same place, as He was when we failed as humans, and took off... in search of what was ultimately, worse than what we apart of from the beginning.

On this #effectiveSunday, will you pray with me, today is an epiphany day? Pray the realization of many; that whereve we find ourselves, may we find our way closer to God our Father. We cannot be effective in what we know and do and where we go unless we pick ourselves up. May today be a day of movement and progress; not a pulling away by our desires, but a drawing to the presence of God by the move of the Holy Spirit. Pray we would not be hindered in our efforts, nor delayed in our journey; but directed by the power of God.

Find our way;
That we may know His way
For our lives and our families.
Our churches and communities.
Led by the Spirit.
To be in right relationship with the Father.
For His glory.

- PNC

For a while now, there has been an effort, perhaps in a simple act of making everyone feel valued, the concept that everyone has a story to tell.

Each of us has a life; of experiences and events, of trials and tragedy, joy and suffering and the opportunity for us to learn and share together is great. Yet in increasingly difficult times, of political correctness gone severely wrong, of commentary and mixed emotions as conversations mixed opinion and fact and neither side being able to accurately discern which is what... the sharing of one's faith and the truth of Christ can feel at times like the last thing one wants engage themselves.

We all look at each other as though the one in front of us has blinders on; deceived by their experience and faith or lack of either (perhaps even both!)

Yet, on this #communitySaturday, consider the words of Titus. who offers the history of Christianity in it's previous life...

From chapter 3, verse 7:

"For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful and hating one another."  He goes on to talk how we were changed, after the "kindness and love of God our Savior toward man appeared... according to His mercy He saved us".

This alone also describes just how much work the Holy Spirit has to work in our own lives as we work our faith, "in a 21st context" as the phrase is often heard around my church. However, it also describes the perspective we as Christians should keep in the forefront of our mind, as we converse with those around us who have yet come to faith in God through Jesus Christ.

It's so easy to get caught up in our live and "our story" that we forget, that once we have accepted Christ, the narrative changes to His story... what He has accomplished in our lives and how He has and will use what we were before Christ to bring glory to God and use it for to further His eternal and perfect plans  and purposes. How amazing is His grace, indeed.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that those who believe in God "might be careful to maintain good works" (Titus 3:8). May we remember the work Christ has done in our lives and recognize as we engage, the love God has for those around us. God grant us wisdom, that we would not live as we once did, nor would we be remembered for how we once lived. May the story we share with a world who desperately needs Christ, be His story of the change He has made in our hearts and minds. Pray discernment in navigating difficult conversations; that we would engage in ways that are good and profitable for the kingdom, rather than unprofitable and vain, as Titus describes. May the plans of the Deceiver be foiled; that eyes and minds would be opened to hear and hearts prepared to receive the Word, as we speak Truth and reflect Christ, rather than project self.

His Story made alive,
Because we placed our story second.
That Christ would be lifted up
As we submit ourselves to Him
Anew and afresh,
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC