For whatever reason (and I have a couple of ideas why), I spent a fair amount of time yesterday, thinking about my college days... and seriously, how times have changed. I look back on those days with mixed emotions. I'm thankful for what I learned, the experiences i had and the friendships I made. On the other hand, it could have been so much more. Had I been more disciplined in my studies for the first 3.5 years as I was in my final semester; had a disastrous relationship not consumed my freshman year; had I been more intentional in pursuing a career tract...

So much to reflect on... and I know God works all thing together for good; for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. However, as the comedian, Michael Jr. explains, God's working in our lives is like a GPS. He's not chewing us out, going 'hey, you missed your turn; where are you going' and the like. He takes us where we are, as we are... "recalculating".

Sometimes the road we choose has detours. There are road closures with sections under construction (or as was the case yesterday, STILL under construction) and times when life gets bumpy, disconcerting and all-around frustrating. 

I have a great appreciate for those in ministry on the college campus scene. There are so many foundational elements that are established as young people make the transition into adulthood, that if they don't "get it right"  as it were, will set the course for the remainder of their lives... a course that will only get increasing difficult to change, readjust and navigate as life continues. 

College is a great time of one's life. It is a crucial time in one's life. It's also a great time to draw close to God, to focus and seek His face and to allow Him to reveal Himself and His plan and purpose for one's life. Instead, it so easily get filled with others things; some of them important and necessary even. Yet so much of it, is not healthy, not beneficial, not constructive and conducive to the clarion call to which we should be prepared to receive.

So, pray with me, this #missionsFriday, for the mission field of the college campus; may this be a time that the miraculous working of God is revealed in hearts and minds. Pray for those in ministry reaching out; that God would grant them wisdom and discernment to speak into the lives of young people. May God give to them direction, in their studies and activities and more importantly, that they may watch for the calling that God desires for their lives.  May God make their ways straight, their purpose clear and their foundation strong; that whether they step into the marketplace or into ministry, the work of the Lord would continue from students into adulthood, dedicated unto the Lord and determined for His good works prepared in advance.

A strong foundation...
A clear calling...
A resolute response.
For the glory of God
For the advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yes... I'm still thinking about this Senior Pastor and his announcement from Sunday morning. Really? Why... It was Sunday. We prayed over him on Monday. Today is Thursday. We hear news then move on? I'm sorry you are going through that... then it's back to what we have to take care, where we have to go, what's on the schedule, what's for dinner and who's coming to dinner?

I'm still somewhat in shock and awe, that nobody saw this coming. That nobody in the inner circle didn't suggest taking some personal time, taking a vacation or a sabbatical. Was there no close friend he could confide in, nobody on the deacon board who spoke up, sensing something was off? I don't know the answers to these questions, but when the preface to the confession of "not being okay" is that the church culture is such that it's okay to "not be okay", I'm at a loss as to how one arrives at jumping to the end and declaring 'game over', rather than a 'time out'.

That said... clearly he felt a clean break was necessary. Perhaps God will use this time to wipe the slate clean and start afresh in his ministry. Which isn't necessarily a bad deal. Often in Scripture, we see a clean break. A decisive walk-away moment. Whether it was the wisest decision to be made or a clear directive from God or Christ, Himself, there are times when the line is drawn and everything forward is new. Everything is different.

It's what Christ has done for each of us. Our lives, the moment we decide to follow Christ, the line is drawn. We are given a clean slate. It doesn't always feel that way as the spiritual battle continues between flesh and spirit, but it is truth. God makes all things new. We are made new creatures in Christ. Important or obscure, prominent or unknown, whatever our place in life was before; our identity is in Christ.

God lacks nothing. We are the ones who come up short. So whatever it is, that we have need off, God stores in abundance. There should be nothing in this life that we should look at and respond, God is unable to help.

It simply requires the acknowledgement of our need and that only He can resolve where we fall short. I'm believing God will accomplish the miraculous in this church and this circumstance, as well as the pastor and his family. That said, I can only imagine the difficulty that the leadership team, operations staff and remaining pastors are battling, as they not only sort through the "what's next" of the process, but also evaluate and reflect where things went wrong. Perhaps there's some things that need to be revamped, overhauled and even, start clean.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, for church administrators, decision-makers and advisors; that first and foremost they would seek the face of God for each and every decision and challenge they face. Pray for unity in their spirit, as to what they sense the direction God would have them choose. Pray for resolution to problems and conversations where conflict and tensions run high and hot. Even in the face of confusion with a seemingly lost sense of direction; may the Holy Spirit bring a peace and clarity to their hearts and their minds. May they receive from the Lord, that which they acknowledge they are in need off and may God hear their prayers and answer with abundance, for in Him are all things made new and we are made complete.

Clean before my Lord
With no trace of wrongs left to right.
For His glory and for His service.

- PNC

I don't think I've pulled a specific associate position to pray about prior to this morning, but a conversation over the weekend got me thinking yesterday, that perhaps I should write specifically.

I love music. I can't play anything, but I could listen all day. I remember the conversation I had with my Dad, during my teen years about why he listened to Classic Rock. My brother, a significant number of years older than I, grew up listening to the pioneer bands of Christian Rock... who laid the foundation for the mass appeal of the genre we know today, not to mention its acceptance within the church.

There's been a trend in some churches, for some worship bands to play secular music. Sometimes putting a Christian aspect on it, as it relates to the message or during offering, which I can understand to a point. Of course, some bands pull it off better than others.

The line in the conversatoin that bothered me, though, was the thinking that any music is okay to be used if it relates to that mornings' sermon. Covering Taylor Swift seems a little much and if a worship band covered a rap song, simply because it related... I'm having a hard time processing that one.

I understand the appeal for music that grabs attention though. Many a times, I've listened to sermons in my own church and either during service or upon exiting, I've thought of many great Christian bands who've recorded songs and lyrics would have been incredible tie-ins to integrate into the service. And not just newer stuff; but moreso, the stuff I grew up listening too... back in the days of opening the inserts and seeing Scripture references that the song writers used as inspiration for their music.

Perhaps that is why, even to this day, there seems to be a power and anointing when listening to those bands. The words feel relevant and timely because they were grounded in Scripture. There are many talented musicians across all genres, musically and lyrically. While putting a Christian spin on secular music is interesting to hear; one doesn't attend church to hear a Christian spin on a secular message.

The Church's message is the Gospel of Christ. It is truth. For the music that is used that would contradict that message seesms like dangerous territory to me. I can't help but wonder if it isn't more of a deterrent than it is a trendy attraction piece.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for worship leaders. May God guide and direct them, as the prepare to usher us in to the presence of God. Pray that God would use them as they lead worship... not to be the worship leader, but to be the lead worshiper. Pray for churches to find the balance, in that worship be God-focused rather performance-based. May there be an anointing upon them; a powerful compliment to the message of the Gospel that is to be brought forth for the changing of lives through the work of the Word.

Worship
As it's all about Him
Not so much, about us.

- PNC

I was torn yesterday between two ideas for today' #seniorPastorMonday. And as of yet, I haven't figured out how to combine the two, so one gets tabled for another time. That said... as I browsed the newsfeed for @BringMe70's Twitter page, one item in particular  caught my attention. Of course, churchleaders.com posted an article on the matter earlier today, but when I saw this news... clearly, the struggle is real and the purpose of Bring Me 70 is true.

Consider this the tale of two pastors.

Yesterday, one Senior Pastor, who, give or take a couple of weeks surpassed 24 years at the church he continues to lead. Basically starting from the ground up, the church has grown wide and in recent years, even deeper. To often we look at numbers in terms of growth, but not maturity. Crucial to their success are many factors, among the a consistent, stable vision;  a strong staff; a high level of integrity and a focus on discipleship of the congregation, regardless of age. Yesterday also happened to mark their 23rd anniversary of marriage.

Along with the momentus occassion, the church announced filling the position of youth pastor... interestingly, enough, with another young man also, soon to be engaged. This church has helped launch from their congregation, 7 or 8 now, families to start or take over struggling churches; the latest as recently as last weekend. A church that recognizes they are not perfect; yet continually strives for excellence will accomplish much; especially when they understand that in itself is a delicate balance.

Consider a second Senior Pastor. After 14 years of ministry, his service looked entirely different. On the surface, their church has done incredibly well. Started in 2003, the church ministers to 7,0000+ people, through multiple services every weekend, on multiple campuses.  In quite the contrast, his statement was entirely opposite.

Effective immediately, after 14 years, a senior Pastor stepped down from his leadership position of this mega-church. Quite succinctly, he informed his congration point blank:

"I'm tired. And I'm broken and I just need some rest."

My heart sank. Of course, churchleaders.com ended their article on this situation with a handful of other articles on burnout and ministry and how to get through the experience of it all, no matter how overwhelming the details may contribute to the problem. While there's a lot that can be done outside of prayer, none of it will be as effective as it could be, if it were covered in prayer.

Lots of what-ifs crossed my mind; as I tried to set aside the technical difficulties I've experienced in recent days and consider what transpired in a mega-church... that nobody was there to help this pastor work through his brokenness. To notice that he needed a break to get some rest. That nobody noticed that he was "leading on empty" to use his words.

There's a great concept, shared by the first senior Pastor and please hear my heart... i'm not advocating the "betterness" of one church over another; for obviously, taking care of pastors needs to be an integral part of any church ministry. But consider this...

The larger a church gets, the smaller a church needs to get. Pastors and congregations, staff and leadership teams need to be intentional in sharing life with each other; outside of scheduled service times, outside of office hours and outside of ministry events. To not take time build up the body of Christ and the leadership of the church with no specific agenda other than to be real and honest about life and its' struggles, then any church, larger or small, on any given Sunday could witness either extreme moment from the pulpit.

So, pray this #seniorPastorMonday, for this pastor and his family during this time. For the brokenness, and the weariness, may this be a time of healing and restoration for he and his family. May whatever priorities that fell out of balance be realigned, as they utilize this time to regroup and recharge. Pray for strength and wisdom for other pastors that are on the verge of experience the same. Pray for the congregations that are in the dark, as perhaps this church was; and pray for the church in the decisions ahead... may they be even more intentional in evaluting what led to yesterdays' announcement and work to implement processes and times that would prevent such situations in the future. Conversely, pray for pastors and churches that are doing well and strong. The devil would like nothing more than to destroy healthy churches, so pray for protection of leadership teams and congregations that are maturing. May their resolve to be intentional in their decisions regarding all aspects of ministry be fortified, as they continue to seek the face of God and live life together as they pursue and fulfill the calling God has placed upon them.

Rest for the weary;
Binding the brokenhearted;
Strength for those whose eyes are set on Him.
For His glory.

- PNC

Is it not utterly amazing how life unfolds; tragedy happens, then life continues and the distractions and struggles of life seemingly overshadow the tragedy. We don't live there (or at least we shouldn't), but major events have a way of changing who we are or at least our approach and perspective to such things.

So on this #effectiveSunday, that happens to double as the 15th anniversary of the attacks on 9/11, a few thoughts on approaching life and the struggles along the way.

Whatever it is you do, it's hard to do fully, let alone well when tired. It's further difficult, to get much done when the frustration is such that it's challenging to think creativity in order to find a method that works; different from what you've been trying that has you banging your head. against a wall... literally or figuratively.

The enemy of our souls would like nothing more. Distract, detour and derail to the point that we are frustrated about our degree of lost, causing us to not think properly; possibly getting more lost and becoming more frustrated... we find ourselves in round-a-bout of understanding, that we entered not realizing that all the entry points into the circle would be immediately blocked or hindered upon our entry.

It's a vicious cycle; one of which has given our spiritual enemy a great many laugh... much to the demise and restriction of life to many who have been bound by his stronghold in their lives.

Yet, Scripture tells us Christ gives rest to the weary.
And that the joy of the Lord is our strength.

Strengthened and re-energized by God. 

I know... it's can be hard to get a good nights sleep. But Dad's advice is warranted. Get some rest.
I know... it's difficult to retain His joy in our frustration. But God is also right. The cares of this life are fleeting and whatever you face; this too will pass. It may be a minor inconvenience. It may be a life-altering, perspective-changing event. God is with you always... even to the ends of the earth.

Join me, this solemn #effectiveSunday... as we remember and reflect on where we were 15 years ago, that no matter what comes against us; may we continue to keep our eyes focused on God. Pray for those who are weary, in need of rest and energy... may God watch over them and minister healing virtue to their body, soul and mind. May their be strengthening of the spirit; that people would indeed, experience and maintain the joy of the Lord. Pray strongholds be broken and people would be set free from that which has snared and entangled them. May that which was meant to detour, derail and destroy be used for the glory of God.

Victory in the end;
Despite tragedies along the way.
The Great Rescuer for all in need of saving.
We call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Every office is different. Different cultures, different dynamics... and it's obvious why. There's different people. For whatever reason, I contemplated yesterday, the difficulties of small churches offices and all they try to accomplish, sometime with only one or two people. Larger churches, of course, in greater numbers. Do they not experience conflict? Does one co-worker not get frustrated with another, as to how one goes about a particular task or project?

I always enjoy hearing about our church's staff meetings, particular when pastor shares a snippet of a conversation that was raised or a particular point of prayer that was emphasized. It's reassuring that to know that staff and operations are seeking the face of God corporately and working to get on the same page; operating in a spirit of unity. Surely, not everyone is saying "yes"

Then, of course, the music man in me had this great number from Petra, playing in my head for a good portion of the day. It seems all the more relevant, after reading last night of another pastor's reason for not always quoting or referencing Scripture in their sermons. If the Word of God isn't being preached, one must ask, what is?

All the more reason, we need to church leadership to hear, directly from the throne room of heaven. Would you join with me, in making this song our prayer?

May this #deaconThursday, be a day, to turn again, our eyes towards heaven. Pray for church leadership and operations needing direction. May they seek the face of God, even if and when it does take all night. Pray a willingness to stick it through difficult moments and challenging conversations. Pray for the Word of God to go forth, in power and purpose. Pray a return of the people of God, to be people of prayer... to find ourselves on our knees calling on God, in all circumstances, needing His wisdom, trusting in His plan and timing for our lives and that which He has called us to fulfill.

A desire to hear;
Directly from the Source.
For His purpose; For His Glory.

- PNC

We all work very hard, in this life.

For our time. For our resources. For our families. For our lifestyles.

Many sacrifices are made along the way and many of them are disconcerting to make as parents and difficult to understand as kids. As I considered thoughts about families and friends and circumstances that we go through, it's possible the two hardest lifestyles on a family are ones where there is an element of service to country and service to the kingdom of God.

Whether serving militarily, law enforcement and fire or in ministry, the sacrifices are huge. It's not that other professions aren't sacrificial and require huge time commitments... they do and that's fine. However, roles that require service such as these, take huge tolls on families.

Their roles can be difficult to explain to kids; the time away; the responsibilities that result last minute changes in plans; often to schedules that are already split in odd ways... the unknown factor of putting life in harms way, the feelings that someone else and their circumstance is more important than the family or kids... it can be a lot to process for kids. And dicey to navigate as a parent.

Then, there's the expectations placed upon the child; to live up to standards, sometimes unknowingly established as a result of a parents service, whether to the church or the community. There's just so many ways that this is difficult to navigate, for both parents and kids. And the results are obvious. Kids that grow up in church, wanting nothing to do with church; likewise, kids that grow up in homes where there's a badge and proceed to get in trouble with the law, themselves.

Circumstances such as these, raise the importance in the need for high-quality pastors and church leaders over our youth and teens; to aid in ministering in tough circumstances to home environments such as these.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, for homes involving service to the church and community. Pray for a strength and encouragement in the special challenges presented in the relationships between parents and kids. May their be an understanding and a grace over the sacrifices that are made. Pray for a bond, fortified in prayer; that God keep and protect them by His mighty hand. May God guard hearts and minds; that all involved would remain close and focused on Him. Pray wisdom for pastors as they minister; especially in these circumstances... for the risk of the unknown, for the incredible time commitment and sacrifice that is made to fulfill these crucial responsbilities... may God accomplish the miraculous.

Whether in service to the Cross
Or in service to the Flag...
For the glory of God
Protection, by the blood of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Being in the middle can be a difficult place.

Sure, there's an element of safety to it at times... such as traveling a multi-lane bridge or not wanting to fall out of bed. Otherwise, it can be... unnerving, depending on what's going happening.

When between warring parties...
When between opposing sides of the argument...
When between decisions taking different directions...
When involved in the process, but you are neither the decision-maker, nor the one affected by the outcome...

Let's not forget the obvious... one's place in the line-up of their siblings.

Associate Pastors play important roles in church operations and ministry. Their contributions are invaluable. Sure, the super-hero's of the movie are well-known, applauded and looked up to, but to each of them, there is a side-kick. An important, even critical relationship; that without it's existence, would result in a much different outcome... many of them, in fact. At a minimum, the dynamics and nature of how things unfolded in whatever circumstance was transpiring would shift, were the associates not in the picture.

Yet, as we've all witnessed, the main character and the associate have their differences, their disagreements and their fall-outs even. In reality, their relationship needs to be stable and healthy; an unshakable foundation that inspires confidence as the move forward as a team.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for the teams of pastors experiencing places of difficult. Whether in personal matters or ministry matters, pray for a calming in relationships and environments. Pray hostility and toxicity would flee and that the peace of God and the presence of the Holy Spirit would infiltrate the places in which they find themselves. May their be a grace extended by all parties, as they work through differences and seek to understand and find common ground. Pray for wisdom, insight and discernment as they talk out their perspectives and experiences. May the come together to seek the face of God.

May they accomplish more together,
Than they would working apart
For the power of a 3-strand cord
Used for the glory of God.

- PNC

No church is perfect. No church has ever been perfect. No church will ever be perfect.

No matter how much you love your church, there will be something; some aspect, some trait... will bug you, bother you, not set well at times or be a slight more disconcerting than you might expect.

That said, there are many signs and many blogs written about the noteworthy points of character and culture that lead one to the conclusion that they have stepped into a healthy church. As witnessed recently, the ability for a church to act and offer a haven for ministers that have experienced failure in their ministry is crucial.

We hear of pastors and ministry leaders experiencing failure, for any number of reasons and to devastating results. Families ripped apart; congregations split as though someone was slicing and dicing dinner preparations, churches close and communities suffer... reality is bleak, the struggle is real and the results can't be denied.

On the flip side... to allow a space for a pastor and his or her family to step into a congregation where they can be ministered to and receive healing... from the body of Christ, and from the Lord as He works anew and afresh in their hearts, lives and family members is pretty incredible. It's to be a time for the to God to do the miraculous in their lives, rather focusing on working through their lives.

It is a time of healing.
It is a time of restoration.
It is a time of renewal
It is a time of rejuvenation.
It is a time of preparation.

When the process is complete, there is a release. And that day is phenomenal. Friends experienced just such moment of release in recent days. Having been unanimously selected to step into a senior Pastoral position, after having served as missionaries in Europe and pastored several other churches previously, God is launching them again... to accomplish the work of the Gospel with a newfound level of experience and appreciate for the struggles they will encounter. Their fall and recovery has been no easy road, I'm certain. In fact, as I don't know the details, I can't begin to fathom. But I know God will use what the enemy meant to destroy their lives to minister grace and redemption to those who await in the community they are about to serve.

Join me, this #seniorPastorMonday, for my friends and many like them, as dawn rises on this new day; the new chapter in the lives and ministry. Pray for continued grace as they step back into the work God has called them. Pray God would do the miraculous in this community they move into; to be God's hand and feet extended, as they have received in this period of restoration. Pray for pastors and families experiencing failure or on the verge of discovering they are in this place... may the find a haven of healing and recovery as well, in a church that will love and support them, encourage and pray over them; and speak life and healing into their hearts and minds; that the truth of God's Word and the power of the Holy Spirit would accomplish the incredible.

Fulfilling the calling of God
His plans and purposes to bring Him glory.
Despite our failed efforts and attempts that reach devastating levels.
May God hear their cries and come quickly to their side.
From having holes to being made whole.

- PNC

The prospect of how yesterday was going to go in terms of smoothness and ease did not look get yesterday morning as things got underway. As Dad and I exchanged a few texts, he encouraged me... as only Dad's can do sometimes, in their own fatherly way; "just stay focused."

Fast-forward to the end of the day...

"Lord, I have nothing for tomorrows' prayer. I got so focused on trying to get through this day, making sure everything got taken care of and trying my best to be quick and efficient."

Thanks for the encouragement Dad! It worked.

Then there's ministry... and missions.

Responsibilities of the day call for our attention and many of them at times, have little to do with our calling and purpose for what God has adorned us to accomplish for the kingdom of God.

And obviously, the struggle is real as roughly 500+ missionaries burn out from ministry in any given year.

Thankfully, God answered my prayer and helped me stay focused on my job yesterday.

Yet, it's easy to not recognize until later that the very nature of focus means other things are going to fall outside of that scope and therefore will be placed in a holding pattern until we can get to them. Hopefully, while they wait, they don't drop from our radar altogether.

There's certainly a balance to life, between the personal matters and kingdom masters.
A balance understood by the Apostle Paul.

Decisions he made regarding travels...
Decisions he made regarding associates...
Detours and delays causing prolonged periods of suffering...

Yet, he remained focused. On what ultimately mattered... eternity.
Reaching the lost and dying world with the Gospel of Christ.
Teaching the troubled and struggling church how to grow in the faith and knoweldge of Christ.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for missionaries experiencing this difficult. Pray they would be strengthened and encouraged to continue to the pursuit of the lost and dying among them. Pray for wisdom in the decisions they face, both in personal matters and ministry matters. May the distractions fade and the things that would get in the way not dissuade them from fulfilling the purpose and calling of Jesus Christ. Pray for balance and health in their lives and families, that they would accomplish much for the glory and kingdom of God.

Singularly-focused.
For an audience of One.
For His glory

- PNC

ps: so, pretty early in day as things got moving, I got so caught up making sure I had one line item taken care of and understand, that I totally dropped the ball on the item immediately next on the list. Realized it about 90 minutes or so later. Focus and balance. No wonder life seems like a high-wire act at times!

I had this song stuck in my head for the most of the day,  yesterday and, of course, could help but think of the generation we are raising. So many internal, thought-provoking questions, in terms of who we are in light of eternity. It's so easy to get wrapped up in who were are and what is going on in the here and now and we miss the mark... not only in our relationship with God, but in our dealings with humanity.

Recognizing the human tendency for this, DC Talk reminds us to consider what matters...

What about love?
What about God?
What about holiness?
What about mercy, compassion and selflessness?

What are we teaching our kids; what are they noticing that is amiss in our lives, in our faith, in our walk with God and in our interactions with those around us... whether they be a part of the body of Christ or yet to come to the faith?

We need God's grace and forgiveness, for surely we all miss the mark. Even in this truthh, we try to make ourselves better or worse by assigning degrees of severity by which we have missed, but the bottom line is that we have all dropped the ball in life. The key is continue picking it up and continuing in life as God has called us and teaching the next generation to do the same.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that we would recognize and teach our kids the same, that God has given each of us a second chance... to start all over again. Pray that as we take inventory of where we have missed on God and His plan for our lives, that there would be a covering of grace and conviction; for He is continually working on and in each of us. May we not lose heart in our frailty and failures, but trust in Him during the lessons of life; that they would be opportunities where our faith would be strengthened as we rely on Him. May we instill in the generations behind us, to focus on becoming people with hearts who are sensitive for the things of God.

Hearts that desire His presence
Minds that seek face.
Hands that fulfill His purpose
Feet that walk His calling.
All for His glory.

- PNC

I've been thinking a lot lately, about how people rise to positions and what unfolds as they handle responsibilities and progress through stages of their career, whether it be in the marketplace or in ministry. We all have our places and while our success in one area may be a barometer for success in another, it is not necessarily a guaranteed lock that such will be the case.

There's an old joke... those who can do, do; those who can't, teach.

We've all had or seen people who were good in their job, yet once they stepped up in position, something changed. Not always, but often. And much like in the marketplace, ministry can get dicey.

Good pastors can be not-so-great bosses.
Quality associates may break under increased responsibilities.
Great managers may struggle, if they were ever the owner.

Recognizing one's strength and weaknesses can be difficult to navigate. Correctly taking inventory of it in others can also be a challenge at times, as we go through the process of doing a day's work well. For times when tensions are raised; frustrations are realized and difficulty lies at the forefront of the matter, such elements can make a good day feel like a battle for the duration... for both parties.

Prolonged battles lead to fatigue. Fatigue leads to mistakes. Mistakes lead to greater frustration. And the battle cycles to a great level of prominence. Eventually this doesn't work out so well... a nerve-racking prospect in and of itself.

While nobody likes to consider that all is not well at church, between Monday and Friday, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, where truthfully, battles are cycling to greater degrees of frustration and difficulty. For tensions that are mounting; for conversations that are not going so smoothly; for decisions that are being delayed over wide-differences.... pray a covering of grace over these today. Pray cooler hearts and minds would prevail and the  calming of the Holy Spirit would permeate their environments. May God grant wisdom and direction in how things should proceed and matters be resolved. Pray a healing and restoration of relationship for those torn apart from having engaged in battle.

May what the enemy meant to divide
God would use to unite.
For a greater impact for the kingdom of God
And His glory.

- PNC

A friend of mine posted a meme on social medial late yesterday afternoon, and upon reading it, I thought, what a great word for today's prayer. While it applies to pastors and would be just as fitting for a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday post, I think you'll agree, it fits well, this #effectiveSunday morning.

Consider this, from the great A.W. Tozer...

"Listen to no man who has not listened to God."

Isn't it amazing how quickly we can get wrapped up into perspective and opinions and ultimately, make a shift in our mindset where we view the world and our responses in ways that are less than Biblical and have little to do with or acknowledge our roots of faith in Christ.

I was reminded of a story that Jim Cymbala, Pastor at Brooklyn Tabernacle shared a few years ago. He tells the story of tel-evangelist back in the day, who made statements in his sermons, that quiet frankly got the attention and concern of more than a few people, but in particular Cymbala and his wife.

As God dealt with them to speak up, he finally spoke to a friend who was friends with the evangelist. It was a nervous phone call, for Cymbala's friendship had no where near the time and history to be able to navigate this conversation, but he stopped out in obedience anyway. It turns out the friend of the evangelist also knew the evangelist was stepping into dangerous waters.

When confronted, that the evangelist should close the ministry or God would, the words fell on deaf ears.

"Are you crazy? This thing is bringing a million dollars a day! What are you talking about, shut it down?" was the reply.

Needless to say, within months, it was over.
All because one stopped listening to God; having mentally shifted so far as the warning from a close friend who was listening (and had received confirmation in the person of Cymbala) was not enough to take heed and change course.

Likewise for our present time... the church will fail to be of any use, much less effective and efficiency when any position of church leadership becomes greater than the ministry and the material successes start to outweigh and dominate the spiritual successes. When the message is changed to keep the money coming; when things change for continued growth in numbers rather than growth in spiritual maturity, there should and must be cause for concern. If not, then danger is looming... usually not all that far from us, either.

Thanks for joining me, this #effectiveSunday, as we pray for the effective and efficient work of ministry, for the advancement of the gospel of Jesus Christ. May those in leadership and positions of influence within the church, great or small, have hearts and minds continually tuned to the voice and word of God. Pray for a strengthening of their resolve to seek His face and a desire to listen. Pray for wise counsel and advice, tempered with confirmation from others strong in the faith and full of the Holy Spirit. Pray for a move of the Holy Spirit as well; that God would accomplish the miraculous in our midst; always remembering God uses those who are humble and willing more than those proud and stubborn.

May God build His Church
By those willing to be a part...
For He is the Head of the Church
We, the body of Christ.
For His glory and the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC

So there's a 45 minute window yesterday, that I'm sure more than one person would rather have not had the situation happen at all... we've all been there. Yet a couple of things transpired, that as I considered today's prayer post on community, I thought were worth sharing.

In a situation, where tensions would normally run high and frustration would be visible, there was an incredible sense of calm. It wasn't that the frustration didn't exist... it simply didn't dominate to be the first noticeable reaction everybody seems to notice.

As a result, there was an overwhelming sense of graciousness in the matter. The calm allowed for normal-tone conversation. That allowed for an exchange of understanding; that again, would be harder to navigate if frustration and anger were on the forefront of peoples' reactions.

There was a sense of humility. While there are always two sides to a story and this was no different, neither party was shouting from the rooftops that they were in the right and the other was in the wrong. Furthermore, the one who was, wasn't rushing to the defensive to make sure their point was heard... loud and clear or otherwise.

Finally, a reasonable, rational and un-explainable outcome that borders on the level of 'minor miracle'. Consider for a moment, when outcomes don't seem fair, they don't seem just and someone walks away feeling slighted, jipped and more or less walks away feeling ruined. It can set a dangerous tone for days and weeks to come.

It's not to say the days that follow won't be difficult and involve more frustration and more conversation and perhaps outcomes that won't be so reasonable or moments filled more grace... they may. But we've all walked away from situations thinking and wishing they had gone so much better. Yet, because of these elements, the only way this situation had gone better was to not exist at all. Otherwise, anything different was worse.

So, pray as we engage this #communitySaturday, that the interaction between church and culture would be filled with these elements. Pray for a sense of calm and grace as we navigate difficult circumstances and tough conversations. May frustrations, while present, not dominate our emotions and drive our responses. Pray humility would reside in our hearts, that we not so quick to justify and force our thoughts, rights and opinions; even when we may actually be "in the right" on the matter. May their be a quickening, to turn to God and pray in such moments, that He would work the miraculous, whether they be major or minor; that we seek His face in ties of need, asking His help... for He is our only hope.

Wait on the Lord
To rescue you.
For He is faithful
To those who call on Him.
Our help comes from the Lord.

- PNC

Once again, I chuckled yesterday afternoon, as moments after asking God for insight regarding this post the thought process unfolded in mere minutes. Why it seems God doesn't answer in other areas of my life as seemingly quick as He does for this, I don't know... perhaps He does, they just don't seem as straight-forward and clear. Like the answer is coming in pieces, until the full picture is revealed.

That said, as my mind considered the word itself, missionary, I began thinking about relationships. Then it dawned on me... why missionary dating doesn't work!  I know... you didn't see that one coming either, right?

Yeah... neither did I.

But here's the difference.

Missionaries want to see people come to Christ out of care and compassion to desperately see them live for Christ with purpose rather than to live a Christ-less eternity.

Alternatively, those engaged in missionary dating desire the person they are dating to come to Christ in order to justify being in the relationship. Yes they want to see them live for Christ with purpose, but to do so with the intention that they may now live with them for the rest of life here on earth, rather than for eternity.

If some aspect or goal of the relationship isn't the desired result, then why not just witness and display the love of Christ to them as a friend showing compassion without the complication of dating?

Fulfilling the calling of missions is a sacrifice of self in favor of gaining others for Christ.
Fulfilling the pursuit of missionary dating is a sacrifice of the other in favor of gaining one for your self.

Quite a noticeable distinction. One that needs prayer, as this mentality still permeates believers, and contributes, I suspect, to the high rate of divorce even among Christians.

The relationship doesn't last, because one's commitment to Christ becomes a condition of maintaining and retaining the relationship with the significant other. A very wrong reason to get saved, quite simply.

Pray with me, on this #missionsFriday with a twist, for the relationships experiencing this conflict; possessing this mentality. Pray a genuine spirit of compassion within the church, for the lost and dying. May the focus of sharing our faith be to see others experience a genuine encounter with God, rather than having an intimate moment in a relationship. May our self-interests in seeing lives changed for eternity be set aside, as God is not willing that any should perish, but come to true repentance. Pray God work the miraculous in hearts and minds struggling with this aspect of a relationship and the conflict and discord it presents. May God bring clarity to hearts and minds; a spirit of discernment that would allow God to do and complete His Work rather than "forcing" our own desires.

True repentance.
True salvation.
True freedom in Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

My best friend and I, when we talk daily, usually end up talking about schedules. Like everyone else, there is always something going on, something to do, something that needs to be handled. Ministry and church operations are no different. Whether you plan your own day or it is planned out for you; or a combination of the two... where your day is subject to change when someone walks in and adds to your list; perhaps with the caveat of "this needs to be done by the end of the day" or "it was needed yesterday", schedules are often hijacked.

As I considered the schedules of church operations, it continues to amaze me, just how much goes on and gets accomplished. Just as quickly, things can change in just one phone call. Operations revolve around people, so for all that is going on, it doesn't take much of a circumstance to arise that result in serious fluctuations and changes to the game plan and timeline of ministry.

Here's the comforting part of it, however.

There is no task incomplete nor item overlooked nor deadline missed on the schedule that resides on the side table of God's throne.

No matter what our day(s) entail; no matter what circumstances arise and storms that loom, God is in control.

**I'm writing this, as the Allies are playing on Pandora... singing Don't You Worry.

"Tomorrow will take care of itself, I'm taking care of you.
You can depend on me for help. I've given my promise to you."

Be not overwhelmed. Commit your ways to the Lord and He will direct your path.

Thanks for joining me in prayer, this #deaconThursday, as we pray for those overwhelmed by schedules and calendars, trying to figure out the game plan of getting things done. Pray grace to handle their responsibilities. May they not be so consumed, that life gets in the way of their focus on God. Pray for wisdom, where changes are needed that will help navigate the day with greater effectiveness and efficiency. May their be a strengthening of teamwork, as people come together to accomplish the work of the Lord. May God accomplish the miraculous as ministry goes forth; that Pastors are able to focus on the Word and the preaching thereof.

Keeping the main thing, the Main thing.
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the Gospel.

- PNC

Whoever said raising kids was easy... well, I'm not sure anyone has ever said it that; for surely it is not.

I learned many lessons about dealing with others, from my experiences in grade school and really, all my schooling, even in college. As my oldest has had some difficulty even in her early years, it's amazing what you try to look for, as insight, that will help the process.

However, something profound struck me yesterday.

Scripture says to love our enemies and to pray. It does not say anything about trusting them.

Then comes the moment of truth...

If we don't trust our enemies in the physical realm, then why do we succumb so easily to the lies of the enemy in the spiritual realm?

He is out to detour, derail and destroy your life and your soul. His words carry no weight and whatever element of truth may be found in his statements, it is to serve his agenda and his accusations. Dealing with him is hard in adulthood and yet, Scripture is filled with moments in time where the enemy of our souls sought to destroy the child.

It is where greatness begins. The innocence. The possibilities. The dreams. The imagination. Train them in the way they should go and they will not depart. Yet, if the enemy can mess us up, so that as adults, we miss the mark in training them in the things of God... if he can mess with the kids; that they won't nothing to do with the things of God...

All the more reason to cover our kids in prayer.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, for pastors and parents; that God would help give us insight and direction in training our children in the things of God; to instill unshakable, unwavering foundations of faith. Pray that God's hand would rest upon them; that at the earliest possible time, kids would recognize the need for Christ in their life, as Lord and Savior. Though difficult to understand, may the trust in God and in His promises... that He will never leave or forsake them; that He has a plan and purpose for their life and that He does indeed, work all things together for those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

Trust in the Lord your God.
Seek His righteousness and His kingdom first.
Lovers of Truth.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

These prayers are increasing in number, so it's entirely possible we're covering certain aspects of life more than once now; I think there's been a time or two in similar situations, but I as pondered today's focus, in light of yesterday's prayer, I got to thinking again about Associate Pastors and those left to handle the affairs of the church during these times of transition. For what pastors face as my friends prepare to depart to the mission field; for those who have gone through the transition of my friends returning to the pastorate after a stint in missions; Associates have a huge responsibility during these times.

Such times are challenging. They are difficult. They are stressful, uncertain and exhausting.

Likewise, installations of new pastors are also challenging. Exciting, yes... but also stressful, uncertain and exhausting.

Something about these situations also seem more difficult than similar circumstances on the secular/corporate side of the equation. Job changes happen and companies and teams go through the same process; of finding someone new, who fits with the team and culture. And it's exciting, nerve-racking process for the one making the transition; the prospect of what's new, what's next, what awaits.

In light of eternity, such transitions also seem to possess such a greater depth of meaning and purpose. Purpose it's the calling of God is paramount to the matter; perhaps it's lives that hang in the balance as we are spiritually led by pastors and church leaders... it's not that these elements don't exist in the marketplace, for surely they do exist.

The difference is, the elements influence our decision in the marketplace.
In ministry, the elements are central to the decision.

Pray this #associatePastorTuesday for these times of transition. Pray for pastors in the decision process of filling an open pastorate position, senior or otherwise. May God grant wisdom and discernment in bring the right candidate into the picture and placing them exactly where God desires them to serve the kingdom of God. Pray for pastors in transition as new leadership takes effect; may there be a grace in the process. Pray for smooth transitions; that ministry would be unhindered. May much be accomplished for the kingdom of God, as doors are opened and the excitement of the prospect of great impact for the cause of Jesus Christ unfolds.

Called according to His purpose
Despite plans that look different from ours.
For the sake of Gospel.

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

I love this band. Every song sounds incredible. And back before the time you could be individual songs, I very much appreciated being able to by an album that I fully enjoyed, rather than spend $12-15 for only a couple of songs worth experiencing.

That said, the words to this struck me as we were headed back to pick up the kids last night.

A huge part of being effective and efficient is wrapped up and defined in a game plan. A strategy.

Is everything that the church does, consistent with the vision and the mission of the church?

Essentially, it boils down to these two points.

1) Does it bring glory to God?
2) Does it seek to reach the unsaved?

Sure, it can accomplish other things and perhaps even be worth doing, but ultimately, if it doesn't contribute to those central points of focus, then it's hard to say it was both fully effective and efficient.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, everything that we say and do would glorify God. May the activities and events of the church, seek to reach the lost and the dying in their community. May the truth of God and His Word be revealed as the church engages community, daily. Pray a consistency about our lives, as we continue to live out a real faith, battling real struggles all while serving a real God. As we commit our ways to the Lord and seek His face, may He use us and raise us up to bring glory to Him as He works all things together in our lives for His purpose.

Strategy to win the lost.
To serve the Lord.
For His glory and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC