We've all seen the signs as we've travelled down roads of all kinds...

"Fill dirt wanted"

Something clicked as I passed another one of these yesterday, that while yes, "fill dirt" does serve a purpose, my initial reaction, was that nobody really likes to be considered as "filler". Organizationally-speaking, nobody really gets excited about being there, just for the sake of being there. Whether it be simply to say that a position is filled, or to have the appearance that there are more people and more activity than what is actually going on, it really is a disservice to the organization and the person to simply be occupying a space or a position.

It's almost (or so it seems) that an organization doesn't have an accurate assessment is what is needed, who should be where, what they should be doing... with a defined sense of purpose, for the position and the person who holds it. In any environment, this is troubling and potentially disastrous... all the more, for ministries and churches who are often struggling with budgetary issues and are in need of capable people.

There's been huge move of understanding, probably due in part to the book, "Unqualified", that God doesn't call the qualified, but qualifies the called. While this is very true, that we shouldn't look at ourselves and think God can't use anybody to accomplish His work, we also shouldn't misunderstand this line to mean that the church should simply hire any one to do a job, that they wouldn't stand a chance of getting elsewhere in the marketplace. That's a "filler" mentality.

But like anything, it is a balance... a delicate one, at that.

So... would you pray with me, this #deaconThursday, that pastors and church leaders would be granted wisdom and clarity as they lead staff and volunteers. May God help them place and utilize those who are willing to serve, yes; but also to locate those who have skills and abilities that God has given for the purpose of helping the church be more effective and efficient in their ministry efforts. Across the board, may their be a renewed sense of purpose and value; that one is not simply taking up space in their organization. If they truly are, may there be a grace over the ensuing conversation; that God would give direction as to how such situations should be resolved.

May the church not stand in it's own way
Through inaccurate assessments and evaluations of their organization.
God sovereignly place whom you will use
For the effective ministry of the Gospel of Christ
To be used to the fullest for the glory of God.

- PNC

We've witnessed quite a bit in recent days...  nothing we haven't seen before, although some would argue that it reached a new low, as to what was on display and how it was portrayed.

It has been established that we have been blessed, and given by God, inalienable rights.

And yet, quite simply the flesh fights for even more. There are many layers to the conversation, some I understand, some I don't and it's too exhaustive to explore for the nature of this blog; except to say that even in Christianity, we are often all too quick to assert our own rights.

I'm just as guilty of it as any other believer, yet the truth of the matter is, that as a follower of Jesus Christ, my rights take a back seat to what Christ desires to work in my life and what He desires to accomplish for the kingdom of God through my life.

God loves you.
He loves me.
He provides for us.
He watches over us.
He desires the best for our lives.
He asks that we bring our needs to Him

However, with that understanding in mind, we still, all to often, come to Him from a place of assertion rather than submission. I do it. You do it. Church leadership and pastors have done it. It can be especially difficult to leaders and people in authority; considerably more so when the relationship is particularly tense, stressful or difficult to navigate. Trying to understand what is going on; wandering what new development will be the one that causes a new set of problems... managing and dealing with management is a struggle for both sides of the table. Which is usually when one starts to stand in assertion and the other is left to assert in confrontation or relinquish in submission. 

This is difficult to do in a relationship with a forgiving, compassion, Sovereign God.
How much more with humanity... not so quick to forgive, prone to self-serving, finite being.

We are not our own; we have been bought with a price.
How will the world see Christ, if Christians keep standing in the way?

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday for pastors struggling; finding themselves in places where they feel the need to assert their rights and position. Though the battle is real and the conversation difficult, may the seek that God would be glorified. May God help them to remain humble, for He opposes the proud (which usually is found at the forefront of any assertion). Pray God would grant to them insight and wisdom in dealing with difficult people, whether above them in leadership or under their ministry. May who we are in Christ not stand in the way of Christ being displayed in and through our lives.

That when people look at Christians,
They would not see a person who believes in Christ,
But Christ who desires the best for humanity.
May we be found relinquished only to Him.
That He be glorified as His sovereign plan unfolds in our lives.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Whether turning around a church from an internal operations vantage point; praying for hearts and minds to be illuminated to the truth and need for spiritual rebirth or working to change the reputation of a church as known by the church community and the community-at-large, one thing is consistent throughout them all...

None of it happens without seeking the face of God and calling down strength and direction in order to make the changes that will propel us make greater gains for the kingdom of God.

For all ones' efforts to be effective and efficient, regardless of what they attempt to do, God must be at the forefront... to be our reason for doing and to be our guidance as we go forward.

I'm reminded of God offering His protection and provision, but not His presence. And His offer was rejected.

God... if you don't go, then neither do we.

It can be hard to hear the voice and direction of God.

Sometimes because we make it that way.
Sometimes because it actually us.

Which is why we are often reminded, encouraged and instructed... to wait upon the Lord. It's not inactivity during the meantime as we wait, but being faithful in what we have before us to do until God directs the change in course.

The process; the order; the sequence of how God works...

It may look, seem and feel like chaos at the moment, but this is what God does.

Beauty from ashes.
Laughter from mourning.

The times and trials of our lives are all for His glory and His honor... that whatever we do, we should as unto the Lord. That alone, may very well help Christians and the church-at-large be more effective and efficient in carrying out the work of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, a renewed commitment and energy from the body of Christ, to continue to seek the face of God first. May we wait upon the Lord more than ever before. May we be faithful to the work He has already set before us to accomplish. Pray the struggles, trials and distractions of life would not dissuade or detour us, but that we would focus on the more on His character and His faithfulness towards us. Pray for a greater clarity in the decisions we make and the direction we take, whether as an individual Christian, for our families and for the body of Christ as we join together. Pray today would make the dawning of rebirth and revitalization among us... not be torn down and weighted by the concerns of the world, but exchange with Him, for His burden is light. May God strengthen those whose hearts are set on Him and may we know not to take one solitary step unless the presence of God goes with us.

For the glory and honor of God
In whom we live and move and have our being.
For the advancement of the cause of Jesus Christ.

​- PNC

It truly is incredible to watch and witness how communities operate.

Businesses come and go, as well as other organizations and the people who found them, build them and move on to other endeavors. Reputations are established and destroyed based on doing great things right and wrong things that result in great setbacks.

Then come the times of transition, as we've prayed over on previous occasions.

In Washington, there will now be a period of wait and see, until the first reports come out that things are well or don't worry, they haven't improved.

Similarly, the same things happen in towns everywhere, when new ownership and management come in with the intent to revitalize a store or a restaurant that for whatever reason was in jeopardy.

Change in reputations and repute take time... although it can be expedited. Although, come to think of it, thanks to social media, the change from to good to bad is often expedited even more quickly now, rather than turning the negative around for the good.

Churches are no exception. They have reputations just like any other organization. Some known for incredibly positive impacts, others for, well just about anything. And a change in the pastorate and leadership for a church that was struggling and in trouble can bring churches back to places of influence and impact for the kingdom of God.

Yet, it starts, like anything else, with the people. How we share are thoughts, opinions and interactions we people influences if they check out the newest coffee shop or clothing boutique in town. Just as much, how Christians discuss their church, pastors and matters of faith influences whether people check out a church or never to come close to a campus ever again.

So, would you join me once again, whether for the first time or the six hundred and first, on this #communitySaturday. Pray for churches and congregations whose reputations in  the community are less than positive. May God work in the hearts and lives of pastors and parishioners, for the impact a church makes on its community starts with the community of believers, not the community in need of God. Pray God would grant wisdom and direction as to the what, when, where and how changes, if any need to be made. For relationships and connections that need to be made with area leaders and influencers, may God grant favor in their conversations and exchanges. Pray God's strength for tough decisions, for even as we've witnessed this past week, not everyone will agree with the change in direction. May the truth of God prevail; though difficult to hear, it works best in the long run. May the eye-scales of deception be removed and the light of the Son of God reach into the depths of the souls of humanity.

That all may see and know
The goodness and greatness of God.
To experience firsthand the love of Christ.
Not because of the greatness of a church,
But the grace of God on a people who seeks to reach the lost
With the Gospel of Christ at any cost.

- PNC 

Well, today marks the celebration of many things... as every day is a celebration of sorts; some things significantly more important than others.

Among them, can you believe you are reading the 600th post, since the re-launch of this site back on 6/1/15?

Yet, while the world is a flurry of activity and buzz regarding today's activities in Washington, I'm standing in amazing, remembering this day from just a handful of years ago, as we awaited the arrival of our youngest child. What a trip this has been? (Thankfully, we have a few more years before hitting year 18!)

The miracle of birth is simply incredible. There are so many words to describe it, one can't choose just one. Yet most of them fail to capture the true emotions. They truly are a gift... and remember the words, that children are an inheritance from the Lord just makes me wish that at times, I did better as a father than I do

On this #missionsFriday, however, I'm also reminded, that a man cannot enter the kingdom of God, unless He be born again. Not a physical birth, as the disciple tried to comprehend, but a spiritual birth... redeemed by work of Christ on the cross.

While child-birth changes life as we know it on this earth, the spiritual birth changes life as we will know it, for eternity.

All this, as I'm getting ready to type this post and a few hours earlier, an evangelist friend update his social media profile with a post from Israel, highlighting an instance that occurred on the day of his spriritual birth, 32 years ago!

Salvation is for all, yet not all with receive it. And while many will never experience the joy and miracle of birth for themselves or encounter complications along the way (and my heart breaks for them, as we've been there), spiritual birth in Christ truly is an overwhelming joy, a miracle unprecedented and yet to be surpassed... that the Son of God would step off His throne, in order to take our place on the execution board.

As much as I love my kids, this is the greater of the two miracles of birth.

So, thanks for joining me these past 600 days! Here's to many more.

And more importantly, pray that this #missionsFriday, would be a day of many more spiritual births. May today be a new dawn, of hearts and lives illuminated by the Word of God and Gospel of Christ; that His love and forgiveness is available to all who would call on His name and believe. Pray that our experiences, good, bad or tragic, would not stand in the way of one's decision for Christ. Pray for revival; that beyond our lifestyle and culture, beyond our problems and differences of all kinds, may God's love for humanity be revealed and personal application made, that we are all sinners in need of a Savior. Pray a day of celebration, both for churches in their communities and missionaries on the field; that we would witness many souls, changed for eternity.

May, among other things, this particluar January 20th, 
Mark the day of a great many rebirths.
For Christ came that we have life and life abundant,
Desiring to seek and to save those who are lost...
Which we all are, or were at one time.
Grace and blessings to you, my friends.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I spent a fair amount of time yesterday, thinking about organizational development, and in particular, how companies and operations handle times of struggle and difficulty. 

In the marketplace, there is a great niche of people, known as "turnaround consultants", people who are brought in for the purpose of making the tough decisions and bringing a company back from the brink on dysfunction and perhaps even, the inevitable going under.

Often times, they will have experience in a particular field for which they are known, but when a system or organization is broken, the purpose of bringing an outside perspective is to have someone who can bring an unbiased look at what is taking place and apply a rational and logical filter as to what is working and what is not, and how things should be working as it makes sense to that company. The principles and practices carry over, across many platforms... there often isn't room for, "well that won't work for us."

Turning around churches, isn't really all that different. At least to a degree. The difficulty for churches, is that there is an element in which churches won't be identical, in their purpose and ministry and culture for the "market" they are trying to reach. The spiritual influence and super-natural dynamic of a ministry must be taken in to account when a church's operations are analyzed and assessed for areas of improvement and recovery.

It's very easy to say "we need to do this because other churches are doing it and it works for them and looks awesome". They may not be what God has in store for a particular church. So, indeed, the conversation to "turnaround" a church is different.

These times of change and the process of sorting things out and implementing change are by no means easy, nor should they be taken lightly. But obviously, many churches struggle and are in trouble operational, just as much as companies who find themselves losing importance and relevance in a crowded marketplace.

Communities need their churches. They need the church to be healthy as much as the church wants to impact their community back to health, spiritual and otherwise.

Pray, this #deaconThursday for churches struggling... to keep the doors open, to minster effectively, to work efficiently; to accomplish the plans and purposes God has called them to fulfill. May God bring insight and clarity as to what and where changes need to be made; may He grant courage and boldness to make the hard choices and have the difficult conversations that may be necessary to turn things around. Pray for wisdom and unity; that the changes that need to be made, would not be done so out of comparison or trends, but because of a true leading and prompting that it will increase and improve their ministry and the impact the church has on its congregation and community. May they seek the face of God first and foremost, not in fear of what is going wrong, but confident in the handiwork of God to use them mightily for the cause of Jesus Christ.

From good to great
From losing the battle to gaining victory
Operating with purpose and anointing
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the gospel.

- PNC

"My friend posted a sermon clip yesterday morning before church, of Jentezen Franklin preaching a powerful message... an incredible illustration of the pizza box.

Essentially, what happens in our lives is or should  be in accordance with God's will and purposes, and yet, in our finite perspectives we get caught up in the packaging. The power and fulfillment of God's purposes being carried out in and through are lives (what's in the box) is what is of value.

Yet, we are thrown off because we are focused on the 39 cent box not looking how we think it should.
​
Of course, moments later, God confirmed this word... as I sat in service and Pastor preaches on God's Will for 2017. In the closing statements of his sermon, he describes the 4 components of God's will.

We often spend an overwhelmingly significant amount of time on the "what", which certainly is a critical, if not the primary piece of the puzzle. But we miss out so much because we don't consider nearly as important, the "when", the "where" and the "way".

We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in God's timing, then we are out of His will and trouble awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if it's not in the place God has for us, then difficulty potentially awaits.
We may get the "what" right, but if we go about it the wrong way, we open the door for a struggle.

If it's easy for you and I to be thrown off, distracted and confused by the 39 cent box that God's Will comes delivered in, how much more for pastors and church leaders as they daily do the work of the Lord for the advancement of the gospel of Christ?

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, for pastors seeking the face of God and His will for their lives and their ministries. May God grant to them revelation, not only for what they are to be doing, but the when, where and the way to accomplish it. Pray they would not be detoured or distracted my the cosmetics of how God's will looks, but that they would remain set and steadfast to being open to be used by God as he sees fit. Though the struggle is real, may the be strengthened and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; that a grace would cover them for the times they have gotten it wrong, because they didn't properly consider the timing, location and direction of the "what" God had in store for them. Pray a clarity, as they go about their day... a break-through, whereby God might accomplish the miraculous, in a new and powerful way.

For the value of God's will is the message He speaks,
Not in the vessel He uses to deliver it.
May our will be set aside,
That God may perform His good and perfect work.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
All glory and honor to God.

- PNC

It's pretty simple, really.

The more you stay "on task" the more you get done.

Every distraction, every interruption, every "I'm just checking something out for a second" (which quickly become 2 or 3 minutes),  pulls away your focus, energy and ultimately, your momentum.

Sure, you may still get quite a few things accomplished at the end of the day, but a few moments of honest reflection could quickly result in the realization that perhaps, you could and should have been further along than where you are.

For leaders, this frustration rises a few notches, when it carries over to the team. Stepping away to keep others focused and energized takes time and effort. All the more, negotiating any conflicts that arise along the way.

Whether it be paid staff, a team of volunteers or simply getting the kids help around the house, staying on task and reminding others to do the same robs us of time and energy and ultimately diminish both the effectiveness and efficiency of our best efforts.

It's not to say there shouldn't be some fun and rest along the way... nobody likes a harsh task-master. But there are real priorities and matters of importance to tend to, all the more for that which hangs in the balance of eternity.

**see how hard this is. I took a couple seconds to think about what to write in the prayer section and like 5 or 8 minutes later...**

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that the church and its' leadership would continue to be faithful in the ministry and work of the Lord that you have called them to. May they be encouraged and energized to stay focused and "on task" for what is at hand. Pray for the redeeming of time, for the days are evil. Pray for effective delegation and distribution of ministry, for indeed many hands make the load light. For the burdens and dreams that leadership carry, pray God would accomplish the miraculous in those situations and bring forth greatness that would glorify God.

That all may know,
The love and power that comes from Almighty God.
May whatever we find to do,
Do as unto the Lord.
With all that is within us
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Though we are probably on different plains of belief and ideology on both the political and spiritual spectrum, I thoroughly enjoy the screenwriting of Aaron Sorkin, creator of the epic television program The West Wing, as well as the shows' predecessor in movie format, The American President.

As I thought about one's belief in God and coming to decision for Christ, I remembered the words from President Andrew Shepherd, towards the close of Sorkin's aforementioned movie.

"America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours. You want to claim this land as the land of the free? Then the symbol of your country can't just be a flag; the symbol also has to be one of its citizens exercising his right to burn that flag in protest. Show me that, defend that, celebrate that in your classrooms. Then, you can stand up and sing about the "land of the free"."

If you'll permit, to offer a substitute for America... Christianity.

Christianity isn't easy... you gotta want it!

God doesn't force people to come to faith. He is active in the affairs of humanity.
You gotta want it. You gotta want to see it.

A decision to follow Christ is rarely, if ever, made on impulse.

Eternity hangs in the balance.

As I reflected, I remembered the words of Coach Grant Taylor, from the movie Facing The Giants.

​"Following Jesus Christ is the decision that you're going to have to make for yourself. You may not want to accept it, because it'll change your life. You'll never be the same."

It's difficult, whether as the everyday believer, the charismatic pastor or the humble missionary to watch people go through life, not acknowledging God's handiwork, nor His gift of eternal life through Christ.

Christians aren't perfect... not by any stretch. But whatever people's reasons for refusing the greatness of the grace of God, one thing is sure... many have testified, their life before Christ and their decision to accept Him was not taken lightly. Not without objection; nor deep thought, study and reflection. His Word is true... He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, whether for Him or after Him.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that God would accomplish the miraculous, in the conversations and opportunities taking place, where people are hearing the Good News of Christ. May the truth be revealed in their hearts and the eye-scales removed, that the may see the glory, that is the goodness of God. Pray the love and forgiveness of Christ would indeed change lives. May the hesitations, objections and uncertainties that stand in the way fall to the side... that nothing would separate people from the love of Christ. Not even whatever, long-held beliefs and perceptions of God may exist before-hand.

Changed hearts.
Changed lives.
Won by One.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

There's a reason the concept of divide and conquer works.

It makes the battle easier to manage.

Depending on which side of the battle you are on, this may seem like your days are numbered, but the strategy is effective.

We have a saying in our church... the larger we get, the smaller we need to get. It's usually in reference to our LifeGroups, inspired by Acts 2:42 and it sums up the intentionality we must take to ensure nobody gets lost in the ministry... thtat we stay connected rather than feeling unneeded or unwanted

Speaking of unneeded, one is always needed in the body of Christ.

The "larger/smaller"  concept accurately portrays the importance of workload and delegation; for any organization, but especially the church. After a conversation with a good friend yesterday, it dawned on me...

The trouble with reusing the same staples all the time, is that they eventually break. So while, operationally, it's good that you always have a select group of people who can be relied upon to help get things done or serve in ministry; if the team that carries the workload is never growing and interchanging, then the people who serve as staples are that much closer to breaking and burn-out.

Friends, this should not be so.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for churches and staff whose people and volunteers are running low on energy, as they continue to give and pour themselves out for the ministry. May they be strengthened and encouraged in the good work they have set out to do and fill. May they be rejuevenuated, even this hour as they go about their day, that God work the miraculous in their lives; whatever may be going on outside the four-walls of the church. Pray for wisdom and discernment, as churches navigate operational challenges and make decisions regarding ministry assignments and tasks. Pray for an increase in service and a growth in the body of Christ; not only in numbers but in maturity... that the church moves forward in prayer, as well as when people step up and become more involved.

That we may live to serve.
God. Others.
For the encouragement of the church.
For the glory of God.
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

We  have all witnessed first hand, whether in our own lives or in the lives of pastors  or other leaders around us, the difficulty that comes with major transistions and times of change. And rightly so. These can be life-changing moments; often accompanied by upheaval and unrest, even if there is an element of excitement should the change be a welcome or positive one in nature.

For all the other moments, perhaps even under the radar, less drastic changes in one's areas of responsibility can be difficult in their own right. Whether it's an expansion of one's oversight, that brings about a level of nervousness and anxiety as to whether they will do well or a reduction of the same, that perhaps brings a realization that they were spread to thin and not doing the job as well as they should... these times raise many questions and concerns. Thought-processes traverse a complex course of possibilities when the questions and concerns are internal; multiple times over if they are public.

You are feeling overwhelmed just thinking about such moments, right?

Then there are those, even in ministry, experiencing such moments.

Fortunately, God's sovereign Hand is not out of reach. He remains close; with the love, support and guidance that is more than capable to bring people through both the most drastic and least significant periods of change in their lives. Our lives and our response to life should testify; that He is "more than" we could ever hope to say.

So, pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors experiencing portfolio changes. Perhaps they are not in major times of transistion in ministry, such as changing churches or moving to missions, but even internal changes within a church can be difficult. Pray a continued strength and reliance upon the Lord; for insight and wisdom, encouragement and confidence. May these moments be times of reflection and growth; whether they include new challenges or an opportunity to regroup and rebuild. May the attacks of the enemy be kept a bay; for he is a defeated foe. May what was meant to destroy and derail pastors only serve to testify of the goodness and glory of God.

For in times of uncertainty, He is certain.
For times of instability, He is stable.
For times of unrest, He is peace.
In darkness, He is light
For we are not unknown to Him,
But intimately known by our Creator.

- PNC

"Fellas, we've got confusion in here." 

A statement made in frustration, by the President, on my favorite tv political drama (that thankful lives on thanks Netflix) as he sits at the head of the table in the situation room. Advisors from multiple agencies are commenting and discussing options and ramifications and because of a number of other factors surrounding the situation, the President quickly realizes he can't keep the conversation and the advice straight.

Not wanting to make a decision on unclear advice, he halts the room with the aforementioned declaration.

I thought about how quickly and often such situations arise in our lives; we desire clarity of purpose and extended sight lines of the path we travel... particular when it comes to matters of faith and what, where and who God would have us to embark.

Seeking the face of God, and first at that, should be priority one as we go about our lives.

Conversly... that process, that conversation... those spiritual moments and trials of our faith go smoother in the long run, if we can dismiss and disregard the voices and advice in our lives that cause tension, stress, restlessness and incredible levels of tiredness accopanied by a defeated perspective.

Even for pastors... it might not be the case that they are operating with a diminished sense of purpose and calling; but that so many external factors are calling for their attention, that it is causing delays in hearing from God.

Prolonged delays bring on the same affects as conflicting voices and advice in our life. The stress, restlessness and energy loss... confusion has a way of aging the body, mind, soul and spirit in incredibly quick fashion.

Burnout lurks around the corner.

Pray, this #seniorPastorMonday, that God would grant wisdom, not only in hearing the voice and will of God in their lives, but to know and understand who and what should be speaking into their lives and ministries. May God guard their hearts and minds as pastors stay focused on Him. Pray a release of tension, stress and restlessness and a spirit of refreshing and rejuvenation. May they be encouraged and strenghthened, anew and afresh....that was has them discouraged and frustrated would pass... and quickly. Pray today would be a defining moment; a dawning of a new day for their ministry.

Clarity... by the hand of God.
Clarity... by the dimssal of confusion.
For God has not given us a spirit of fear
But of love, joy and a sound mind.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Not everybody can do every thing.

Gifts, talents, personalities and abilities all  come together and often, don't play well. Other times they do and it's for the best.

The wisdom and discernment necessary in any organizations' leadership team or decision-making process is crucial when they consider the purpose and plan they set to pursue.

Certain tasks require an experience, an understanding, a maturity (especially of faith, in the church arena), sometimes there's even an age factor... it's what learning is all about.

As I reflected on this yesterday, I was reminded of the now famous quote by auther Jim Collins, in his book, Good To Great.

"They start by getting the right people on the bus, the wrong people off the bus, and the right people in the right seats. And they stick with that discipline—first the people, then the direction—no matter how dire the circumstances."

It's uncomfortable in the church, to talk about getting the "wrong people" of the bus, as we are all members of the body of Christ. Nobody is suggesting, someone not being welcome in the church, not by an stretch of the imagination. That said, not everyone is made for church leadership roles and influence either. Like any organization, problems and difficulties arise as conflicts come to light... for whatever reason.

It's not a fun prospect, but as churches evaluate their levels of effectiveness and efficiency for the cause of Christ, change can be difficult but necessary.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday for churches struggling to make progress in their ministry efforts. May God grant to pastors and leaders wisdom and discernment. Though the conversations may be difficult as they work the process of analyzing who is where, doing what and if that's the best place for them and their giftings, may God grant them a covering of grace. As people of faith come together, may their be a spirit of understanding; that personalities and egos would not rise above as matters of greater importance than the work of the Lord. Pray the spirit of offense would be kept at bay; that the church would resist the temptation to get frustrated and bothered by personal agendas and motives.

May God's work continue to advance,
Despite humanities flaws that come to light and stand in the way
God help us to walk true to the calling placed upon us
To glorify you in all things
And work as unto the Lord
For the advancement of the gospel of Christ.

- PNC

I had an epicly surreal moment yesterday afternoon... the second one of it's kind in the past 12 months.

If any phrase, single-handedly describes both of these events, it was the reaction I siply couldn't get past.

How did you NOT see me?

Oddly enough, I didn't have any clear direction on this post, until after this moment.

As we the church engage community today, I imagine one day as we stand before God.

I don't know this phrase sounds when delivered with the love and compassion of Christ compared to the flawed sarcasm of yours truly, but I envision a heart-broken Jesus asking soul after soul...

How Did You Not See Me??

Since the beginning of time, man & woman alike have written and shared insight and perspective, witnessing the power and awe of God displayed on earth. The miraculous has occurred as lives have been changed through people's words of love and actions of compassion have been expressed and delivered in the name and spirit of Christ.

Countless people have told eye-witness accounts of situations and circumstances that can only be explained by angelic intervention. Timing of provision or protection that can only be explained by the Hand of God moving heaven and earth. There's so much going on... I'm actually struggling for the words to accurately describe it all.

Plus, I don't think you'll read it all, even if I could.

We are relational beings. Meant to be connected with each other.
More importantly, we were meant to be connected with God.
Throug the love and blood of Jesus Christ, stepping down from Heaven, onto Earth...

How could a moment like that be missed? Yet, even when it happened... it was missed.

I imagine Christ shaking His head in disbelief.

Will you join me in prayer, that this #communitySaturday, that this would be a day that Christ illuminates hearts and minds. May the compssion of Christ draw people to seek the face of God. For the difficult and troubling places in which people find themselves, may the people of God continue to express through word and deed, the love of Jesus Christ... that in all things God would be glorified. Pray people see through the flaws of humanity, and witness the life of Christ flow from our hearts in which He resides, for those who have believed.

That we would stand in Heaven one day
And not hear a single soul utter the words of disbelief...

"I didn't see you."

- PNC

As I continued to reflect yesterday on God's forgetfulness, I was refreshed at the wonder and the mystery of the gospel.

So often, we get caught up in other aspects of Christianity of how principles and concepts apply to our lives and we forget (or so it seems) the incredible, "old-school" truths, if you will, of God's Word.

Though heaven has a record of our lives for the purpose of judgement day, God, until Christ' return, is not looking upon man as though He moves about with the eternal equivalent of Santa's naughty or nice list.

He looks upon the life of the believer, and see's the blood of Christ having washed us white than snow.

For the unbeliever, He looks upon their life, heart-broken... as a Father breaks for the child.

"When, oh when, will you accept my eternal gift?"

We, as humans, long for that kind of love, fullfillment and acceptance; yet when offered to us in the person of Jesus Christ, many dont' receive it. His gift is a game-changer, which positions us back to the earlier post this week, of being comforable with uncomfort.

When we hold more closely to the comfort of our life rather than the uncomfort of Jesus life...

I understand the hestitation to an extent. But God's first concern for us is a binary one, if you will.

He looks at us and sees His Son. (saved)
He looks and sees the need for His Son. (unsaved)

We desire a life-changing experience, but somehow have a problem with the impact it will make, when time comes for changes to be made. Some change we are glad to make; others, are hard and more difficult to process.

Salvation is an incredibly simple process. Yet, thanks to the spiritual conflict within the heart of man, the conversation can be difficult to navigate, as people struggle to allow the truth of God's Word to illuminate their life and present circumstance. He doesn't hold people's situations against them; but His compassion cannot leave people where He finds them.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for missionaries having difficulty ministrering to those who experiencing a great internal battle as they hear the gospel. May God give them wisdom, patience and understanding, as they listen to people's stories and experiences. Pray for a supernatural revelation; may the eyescales be removed to the truths of God's Word. For the truths we've long passed by, that were effective for Christ as met people where they were, may today's church continue to be compelled to be the hands and feet of God in meeting people in the various situations and circumstances they find themselvees. Pray for missionaries in the personal walk of faith as well, for God is not done changing the lives of those long after they have accepted Christ; for every encounter with the presence of God ought to change our contenance.

God unchanging character is His desire for relationship.
For one does not experience a gift of love and walk away unaffected.
May God work the miraculous this day
As lives from every walk
Are affected by His love and His presence.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Moments of forgetfulness are often painful and frustrating.

We forget things of great importance and cherished value, usually at times that are inconvenient.

Thus, these moments rob of joy and energy... costing us precious time from our day and dollars from our financial footing. We struggle to remember.

Conversely, we often remember the things we should forget. 

Our failures. Our regrets. Our mistakes. Our sins.

Fortunately, in the eyes of God, for the believer, He sees grace. He sees the blood of Christ.
Our sins are cast into the sea of forgetfulness.

We hold things against ourselves, that God does not... which can interfere with our perspective and approach to life; oten at times when it should not be allowed to do so.

When such moments interfere with minnistry and the advancement of the work of Christ through us in the impact we are trying to make for the glory of God, it can seem that things are simply being made worse.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for those in church leadership and administration, who are under spiritual attack. May they be strengthened and encouraged, that their identity is in Christ and not in the moments of weakness, mistakes and sins. Though we may fail others and ourselves, may church operatives be reminded that God never fails us, leaves us or forsakes us. May the blood of Christ wash over us anew and minds renewed afresh by the word of God. May the things which attempt to interfere with ministry be diminished and cast aside; that God in His gace and mercy would favor the efforts of those who seek to serve and minister the gospel of Christ to a world and community in desparate need of Him.

For the His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

​- PNC

Good Morning 2017!!

Resolutions do no good, if you first do not make an internal resolve.

You can make the list, as many of them as you want, but until there is an internal x-factor... a mixture of determination and desire, that propels you to action, then you've simply perfected your list-making skills.

All the conversations in the world accomplish little if one doesn't begin acting on the strategies and ideas that have come forth. You've become proficient in talking about things, but have little clue when someone says "let's do this"

Rest is necessary and crucial to the success of whatever one sets out to achieve... right up until the point that it becomes an invitation to procrasinate... at which time, you know have a new enemy.

Then enemy becomes a mess, as time and space are extended to this creature, until you are surrounded by a whole host of things and matters that cause you to wonder how and where you begin.

Life is hard, but it doesn't have to be as hard as we make it.
Life is stressful, but it doesn't have to be as taxing as we think about it.
Life is a journey and surely we miss the enjoyment of most of it as it passes us by.

Effectiveness and efficient only come through action. Wherever you are, whatever you face, ultimately, action is what's next. You may not be ready to start, but continuing to take steps of action will keep you moving forward...

Into the new year and the many more that follow, should the Lord tarry.

Pray, this New Year's #effectiveSunday, that today would be a day of action in what's NEXT. May what is meant to derail, detour and destroy us, be cast aside by the hand of God. Pray a spirit of resolve, to press on and step forward in the confidence and boldness of Christ. Pray a continual seeking of the face of God; keeping Him first in all things, focused on what matters and not distracted by the things that don't. Pray this would be a year of great fulfillment in the presence of God and great accomplishment for His Kingdom.

Blessings on you and your households and friends.
Happy New Year, my dear friends.
May this be the best year ever!
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Well, it's New Year's Eve!

And if you are reading this, you've successfully made it through 2016 and everything moment of excitement, frustration, worry, joy and laughter that has accompanied the days. Pending the time that remains when this post comes across your radar, let me say this first.

I command the blessing and favor of God over your lives and your family in 2017.

Whatever 2016 has brought to you, I pray it has been a year of no, if not very few, regrets.

If it has or you know those, for whom are leaving this year behind in frustration, may I offer some words of encouragement as the church engages community:

Regrets will be few....

When you seek to give glory to God in all circumstances.
When you take the time to express love of Christ to those around.
When you seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.
When you allow the Word of God to direct your steps
When you place Christ at the center of your life.

On this New's Year Eve, what better a time than to have the conversation that 2017 has the potential to be the best year ever... not because of the stuff, but because of people. Not because of our own agendas, hopes and dreams, but because of the miraculous change in one's life through Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Christianity does make one's life perfect here on earth, it does however change how we view our time and our purpose here on earth... for if it doesn't, then what is the point?

Here's to praying 2017 a year of eternal change and eternal purpose; a year of great faith no matter what awaits.

Pray this New Year's Eve, aka #communitySaturday, that in times of reflection, people would understand the true changes that may need to occur in their lives. Whether in matters of faith, perspective, purpose or habits, may God bring illumination and wisdom to hearts and minds; that we may live life to our full potential. May 2017 be a year of placing Christ at the center and seeking first the kingdom of God. Pray the mercies of God, that are new every morning, position us to glorify Him in all circumstances, both in word and deed.

Rejoicing as we exit 2016.
Grateful for His Hand of protection and provision
Excited for the prospect of 2017
Lives changed for eternity
Because of the body of Christ
Presenting a genuine faith of God every new day; every new hour.

- PNC

Once again, for whatever reason, I had DeGarmo & Key's classic, "Casual Christian" playing in my mind this morning. It probably doesn't help that my favorite online streaming radio station has played it a few times over the past couple of days... including last night, before typing this!

Then something clicked as I prayed for God's help, what He might have for today' perspective.

I'm always amazed at how pastors and their families transition in ministry. Most often, there truly is a calling and a moving, to another church or place of ministry in the sovereign hand of God. It is true and genuine and when it's all said and done, people stand, understanding the move was from God; as sad as parting ways is to endure.

Every once in a while, the transition is a struggle... because it's outside the will of God, quite frankly. I don't know how pastors handle it when they get it wrong. Many don't do well; many more, it takes a while to recover.

That said, whatever the details of the transitions that take place within the pulpit (and the success and difficulty thereof), it's the deacons, administrators and staff that remain. For very extended and prolonged periods of time, those who hold these position within the church go above and beyond to make sure the church moves forward, in its' ministry, mission and purpose to the community they serve.

These church leaders and many more volunteers who serve in key positions are planted, committed and involved; wanting what's best for their families, their church and the communities in which they work, play and worship.

Now, that's not to say, pastors aren't those things... for surely they share the same sentiment; whether they've led the church for two years or twenty-five. But let's be honest... if a pastor is called to another church, community or ministry, then he or she is no longer involved in the day to day activities of the former church and the former community. Thus, what happens to the church during times of pastoral transition and their influence and impact on the community during these times are crucial.

So would you join me in prayer?

On this #deaconThursday, for these church leaders, who even this moment, find themselves in states of pastoral transition. May God grant to them an anointing in the decisions to be made and directions to be taken. Pray for wisdom, as conversations are had and meetings are held, that God would lead, guide and direct their every step. Pray for grace, as these times are difficult and the circumstances that surround them are flooded with many emotions, depending on the nature and reason that started it all. Pray the church's impact and influence in their community would increase, as they and the body of Christ testify to the goodness and greatness of God, even during times of uncertainty. Just as God has moved pastors out of a pulpit and to other churches and ministries, pray the sovereign Hand of God would divinely fill the pastoral roles that stand vacant.

May the people of God be passionate for Him.
Living lifes of great faith in the midst of great uncertainty.
May the church light up the night,
An everlasting light to the community.
Because those who follow Christ will be known for their love.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Family relationships are work. Even in the greatest of families, with the most incredible amounts of love.

In the families where there is great struggle and tragedy, even stressful points of tension at seemingly drops of a hat, there are moments of great joy. Moments when personal issues and troubles, relatioal frustrations and differences on life and living... they are all set aside in the interest of showing care and concern for those we love, just because of the nature and foundation of the relationship.

I considered this yesterday afternoon and the power that such moments can have, when they happen.

They are disappointing when recognizing such a moment is needed
They are frustrating to wait in anticipation, as a hope is seemingly prolonged.
They are a joy to watch such moments unfold... when it finally happens.

Every time I consider the difficulties of family life, I wonder how pastors do it.

Then I remember the plethora of reasons pastors burnout out and end up leaving the ministry. They don't alsways do. Amidst the struggles and challenges of ministry are the struggles and difficulties that await when they come home. Frustrations with extended family, kids fighting over toys while it's still Christmas day and spouses upset with conversations that quickly took a turn downhill... whether the joke wasn't that funny, the sarcasm wasn't well received or the wrong answer was discovered wrong after being spoken.

Like the professional mechanic whose vehicles are the last to get worked on, or the plumber, whose wife's kitchen is the last to get fixed, so to pastors, perhaps more often than you and I both probably realize, can have difficulty  keeping their families in healthy, emotional and spiritual states of existence.

All the more reason, we pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors battling family difficulties and frustrating relational tensions, whether in their immediate or extended households. Pray God would give wisdom in handingly whatever strains may exists, in the marriage or in parenint; in siblings or with in-laws. Pray for strength and rest, where matters and circumstances have lasted seemingly longer than anticipated or expected. For the short-lived moments of tension, pray for grace... that they would be quickly dismissed where they are not important and quickly resolved for real problems, avoiding the potential to become drawn-out indefinitely. May the challenges at home not dissaude, diminish or derail the efforts of ministry and the work of the church. Though the balance is hard, may God move on their behalf in all things.

To receive the glory and honor He is due
Both at home and at church
In the community, here on earth
Before the cloud of witnesses in heaven.
Displaying Christ, no matter who stands in front of them.

- PNC