It's not very often that I have been faced with two ideas regarding these prayer posts and felt the need to decide between which one God had in mind. The two seemingly interwove with each other, between what we pursue in relationship to how community operates.

In our pursuit, we look to and for what is next. What will improve our life? What will improve our position? What will increase our bank account? What will grant us greater influence and prominence?

Community always looks for the best and the brightest.

The prominent neighborhood.
The desired school district.
The hottest restaurants.
The best shopping experience

Yet, when someone recommends seeking God for direction in life, rather than man's wisdom or insight...
When there's a recommendation of  prayer over pills; to read the read the Word of God, rather than reading cards; community calls out the believer for being off base.

In and of themselves, Christians are neither perfect nor have all the answers or have it all together.

But like being a part of the best neighborhoods, attending the award-winning school, or the experiencing the greatest dining or shopping, the community of faith should be the desired community.

It's not a premier community because of who is a part of it; it is a premier community because of who the community turns to; not just in times of trouble and desperation, but in times of triumph and celebration.

It was God who created community, when he created man. He created community when he created woman, for it was not good for man to be alone. He created community when He planned for redemption through Jesus Christ.

God is the ultimate "community organizer". It is His family; an ever-growing one at that. It is where all of humanity belongs, that sons and daughters would return to the Father.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that the body of Christ would extend the invitation to a lost and dying world, that there is hope and peace, love and forgiveness made available through Christ. May they come to a place of understanding, that God is not out of reach and out of touch, but intimately and keenly aware of what has transpired in every heart, mind and soul of every life. Pray the truth of God's Word would be made alive; that prayer works; that God's Word helps; that whatever we have need of and whatever we seek, God is able to fulfill and meet us at our point of need and in times of desperation.

May we seek Him;
And His righteousness
As we do for what this world offers
But will not last, nor satisfy.
In Christ alone, we place our trust.

- PNC

Talking with my best friend yesterday, we got to talking about comedians, when Jeff Allen's testimony came up and it reminded me I had mentioned it last week. As I was thinking yesterday about community and about missions, I couldn't help but recall Jeff's words.

To appreciate a creation, you have to appreciate it's Creator.

Yet, somehow, in this life, we've figured out how to love the things of this earth, yet not acknowledge the One who created this life and all that is in it. For all that we go through, for all that we don't understand, I am amazed how God pursues us.

**I'll finish this post later, but in the meantime, share this video and pray for the miraculous!

So, I'm back... much later than anticipated. :-/

Oh, that we would pursue God as much as He pursues us. We go after possessions and the like... insert your free-time consumer here. Mine is cars; usually browsing Craigslist for the next potential ride. For others, clothes. The latest flick. Having just spent two hours at the cellular store and stumping tech support for the past four days, some have to have the latest and greatest technology. The biggest flat screen. What's your vice?

For God, it is His creation. Disconnect God from His people is the eternal equivalent for some of us being without our phone. (my replacement arrives Tuesday; this not a vice, so much as I have been unable to receive incoming calls since sometime this past Tuesday). My universe feels out of sorts when a car is in the shop (which also, could be looming in the next week or so, that will have to be resolved out of priority, not desire). A favorite outfit ruined. The superficial struggles are way to frequent; but we have relatible moments of loss... the passing of friends and family, spouse or child... incredible grief. Profound disconnect.

This is God's dilemma. Anything to have more time with those He created; and desired badly enough to send His own and only Son to earth, to pay the cost that would make restitution, whereby man could be reunited with his Creator.

The awesome, yet humbly-profound wooing of God. He desires that people would draw near unto Him, for then He has permission to draw unto them. In the meantime, there is a constant, passionate, patient knocking... loving reminders that He is waiting.

As Jeff testifies, God knew how to capture his attention. Cynics are cynical. Enter the book of Ecclesiastes. The constant knocking of sermon tapes. The patient waiting that Jeff would open one and listen.

While incredibly late this #missionsFriday, pray that many would listen and respond, to the prompting; the drawing; the wooing of Creator God. May human creation come to realize and recognize and respond to the invitation made available to have a relationship with God, through His Son, Jesus Christ. Despite faults and failures, missed opportunities and moments of hitting the wrong target in life; may the love, grace and forgiveness of God visit hearts and lives. Pray they would forever be changed for eternity; to testify as Jeff does; we do have and are put on this earth with purpose. It starts and ends with God; the very beginning and the end of everything that ever was, ever has been and ever will be.

All that God has for us,
Because we are made complete in Him.
For His glory
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

ps: fuzed worship radio is playing on Pandora; getting ready to update this prayer to the site and How He Loves, by True Story just started playing. Wow... "He is jealous for me... O how He loves me... I realize just how beautiful you are and how great Your affections are for me.

Gotta love God's timing!!

Yesterday, as I went about my day and pondered a decision and the surround circumstances, I though about the descriptors I used in that prayer, of steadfast and unwavering in relationship to God. A few days ago, I popped a different cassette into my car stereo and it turns out this mix tape has the Trimmed & Burnin' album, from Glenn Kaiser and Darrell Mansfield.

So, naturally, I had this song playing in my head.

He's God, God don't never change Oh, always will be God
God in the middle of the ocean // God in the middle of the sea
By the help of the great creator // He's truly been a God to me He's God,
God don't never change Oh, always will be God

God in creation // God when Adam fell
God way up in heaven // God way down in hell

He's God, God don't never change // Oh, always will be God

Spoke on to the mountain // Said how great I am
Once you get up this mornin' // Skip around like a lamb

He's God, God don't never change // Oh, always will be God

God in the time of sickness // God in the doctor too
In the time of influenza // He's truly been a God to you
He's God, God don't never change // Oh, always will be God

God in the pulpit // God way down at the door
He's God in the amen corner // God's all over the floor
He's God, God don't never change // Oh, always will be God
He's God, God don't never change // Oh, always will be God

No matter what we face, no matter what we encounter; where we turn, what we decide... God doesn't change.

EVER.

Then I get to church last night... the closing song, of the praise and worship is Because of Who Are. He is worthy of our praise. Our provider. Our peace. God reigns in victory.

Just an incredibly powerful, incredibly comforting song. Both of them, as a matter of fact. Plans change, ideas come and go, our methods for getting things done and how we go about handling the affairs of this life... nothing remains as it is for eternity; except the character of God Almighty. He can be relied upon and trusted, no matter what we encounter. Triumph or tragedy. It's because of who He is, that we can set today I aside and trust and worship Him for what He has already accomplished.

Pray, this #deaconThursday, that church leadership would be reminded, as I was last night, that at times it's necessary to set requests aside and be grateful and thank God for what He has already accomplished in our lives. May we never take for granted, His protection and provision, His healing, guidance and peace that He has already brought to our lives, through the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray a fresh focus on the face of God, who inhabits the praises of His people.

May an attitude of gratitude
Precede our requests.
As we worship Him in spirit and truth.

- PNC

One does not leave an inheritance that includes rubbish. They leave what is valuable. They leave what is cherished. They leave what is priceless. They leave among the material possessions, the intangible that can't be bought and sold, unless the one who receive the inheritance essentially trades their soul.

As I considered the possibilities, I submit the intangibles is a fairly list; but an even shorter list, are the concepts that are not inherited. Among that list, and perhaps even at the top is the concept of perseverance.

Consider the truth of perseverance, for a moment.

Perseverance is only:

- learned by living
- encouraged by others
- determined by self.

The few other character traits that can't be inherited, may also be identified by the above three statements, but I surmise that even those stem from an attitude that says "don't quit".

To understand that God has a plan and purpose for every life; that He desires every moment, every circumstance, every conversation an opportunity to be used for His glory presumes that time is nothing more than a series of decisions that, at their core, are an invitation to continue moving forward in this life.

Even as a potential decision has arisen in my life, I shared with my father last night and as well as my wife... it's hard not to let the past wrongly influence our present. Respectively, I also made the statement that it's hard to know when details cause us to hesitate, whether they are legitimate warning signs or they are prompts to trust God that the circumstance is different this time.

If such moments are challenging as adults, all the more reason to pray for our children.

Pray, this #youthPastorWednesday, for the circumstances and challenges facing our youth. Pray that as they watch adults, parents, and pastors sort through life and walk by faith, that they will decide to live a life that perseveres. May they learn to trust God in all things and seek His face in all circumstances. May they come to rely on the promptings of the Holy Spirit and discern the will and calling of God upon their lives. Pray they would not lead lives of quiet desperation, but of holiness, righteousness and purpose; to pursue the plans and purposes God has ordained in advance. May the overcome whatever obstacles the enemy of their souls would lay in their path to detour, derail and destroy their lives. Pray a foundation of steadfast, unwavering faith in the Most High God.

Press in.
Press on.
In the quiet confidence of God.
Seeking the face of God in all things.
For His glory.

- PNC

Isn't it amazing how the mind works? Seemingly out of nowhere, it creates scenarios and pictures of possibilities and conversations, that sometimes may make sense and other times, seem way out in left field. As I traveled through an area yesterday, there is a road closure on my way, as a few miles later, they are putting in a round-about, at an intersection I'm going to drive through anyway... just not via the road I normally take. As I drove through and saw the signs, I imagined a group of friends who would travel through there for the first time.

One of the friends speaks up and says, road closure? Now where do we go? The individual goes on to state, that because of who she is, using a title that doesn't define her, but simply defines her relationship to a person of  position, how would she know where to go? Of course, my sarcastic mind  responds internally... just read the signs!!

Yet, unlike the road, where detours are always laid out when a closure exists (and sometimes the detours aren't so clearly marked) life rarely defines detours when certain paths are closed. You just know that some option or destination is not an available route to pursue, and so must go a different way about getting there or decide to do something different altogether.

How frustrating that must be, for one who doesn't look to God, the author and finisher of our faith. Even as I went to bed, less than 5 hours ago, pondering a decision, rather a potential decision in the very near future... I acknowledged, I can't do this on my own. I need help making decisions; choosing directions; recognizing the signs. He makes it all work for good; even our mistakes and thankfully, His grace is sufficient for my mistakes; but that doesn't make me want to willingly make them. I want to know before decision-time that I am where God wants me, doing what He has for me to do... lest I change the game and find out later, the game wasn't meant to be changed.

Even with our reliance upon God; such times are frustrating, agonizing and difficult to navigate. Hence we look to Him first and place our trust in Him, regardless; for the stress of this life without the help of the Holy Spirit is crushing to many and disconcerting to the rest. But there is rest to him who places his hope in God.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for those pastors struggling to make sense of the signs and those trying to understand where the detour they are on is taking them and why. Pray for a steadfastness of faith, unwavering in their commitment to trust God in all things, regardless of circumstance and its' appearance. Pray for those feeling lost, that God would like their paths and direct their steps. May their be a reassurance and a confidence anew, that God, is in fact, working all things together for good... even our mistakes and decisions of regret. For the past that haunts us; for decisions that bother us, for outcomes of the past that frustrate us, even when relaying the story... may the peace of God that surpasses all understanding comfort our hearts and calm our minds. Pray, that regardless of yesterday, that tomorrow would be hopeful and today would be a day of diligence.

May we live a life
Clearly marked by the hand of God.
For His glory, we pray.
In the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

- PNC

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

That right there, was the topic.

Pride.

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

I'm not exactly sure what prompted me to think about this last night, as I spend the afternoon at a family reunion and honestly had given much thought at all to today's prayer (I know that sounds weird, especially having written yesterday's prayer on inquiries), but, whatever the reason, another song played an influence.

If you ever get a chance to see the band, Everfound, in concert, you should absolutely go! Comprised of four brothers from Russia, these young men have an incredible testimony of faith and the persecution their family faced before coming to America, in 1996, if I recall correctly.

Their debut album is in the CD player of the vehicle we took to the reunion, this album being one of the favorites of my oldest daughter. The entire album contains powerful lyrics, but as we were making our way to leave, the song Unless started playing, in light of the concepts of effective and efficiency.

There's an old adage that says, "pray like everything depends on God; work like everything depends on you." Pair that ideology with the chorus of the song... "unless a miracle, takes control; and rescues my fallen world."

We struggle to work and play and to make our way sometimes forgetting or at least letting it move to the backside of our memory, that everything we do is because of the ability granted to us by God, to be used for purposes of God, in order to bring glory to God. Thus, no matter our best efforts, they are, in fact, as Solomon explained, meaningless in our fallen world... unless, a Miracle.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for the miraculous, in our midst. In our fallen world, where everything under the sun is meaningless and all our best efforts will fall short of the glory of God, may the sovereignty of God grace our lives. May our words and deeds for the cause of Jesus Christ bring glory to God and that the drawing of the Holy Spirit would go before us and prepare the way for the work of the Lord. May we be a people, that indeed, would trust God, for it does all depend on Him, while working like it does depend on us, for we are not called to do and be nothing; but we are called to be salt and light.

God, go before us this hour.
Do what only You can do;
That we might do what you have called for us to do.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

 ItI had this great number playing in my head for most of the day yesterday, and it didn't take long to consider the chorus in light of faith and the work of missionaries. Life is not a matter of if it hits hard, but when it hits hard. What will happen to your faith?

God tells us that the only thing that will stand forever is His Word. That's it. That's all there is. Everything else fades. Everything else passes. Everything else is currently the process of fading and passing. God's Word remains.

So when the walls of life press in; when the lights go out; when fear knocks on your back door... do we press in to God and His Word? Do we look to Christ to light our way? Do we run to the front door of faith?

We've come to a place as a people, where it's easier to discard and replace rather than work to repair. It's easier to quit and move on rather than continue to work through one's way. Faith is traded, sometimes quickly, sometimes over a season, for the temporary, for the moment, for the temptation, for the mammon.

Yet, it's my prayer today; for those in the faith... for those yet to come to the faith, that they will NOT walk away, neither will they go astray. It's game time. Let's go!

Pray with me, this #missionsFriday, for those who place their faith in God as well as those who've yet to come to faith in Christ... may it be known as steadfast. Pray for a faith that stands firm and stands tall; that stands for glory and honor of God and His righteousness. Though it may have its' battle scars and wind-baffled appearance, pray our faith would shine, as a testament to the faithfulness of God; as He draws all unto Himself. Pray that today would be a revelation day; that lives would be transformed by an encounter with God through the person of Jesus Christ. For what good is a faith in a made-up deity? May they know the One True God, Creator of Heaven and Earth, who desires to have relationship with His creation.

What Satan meant for destruction, God uses for development (thanks Pastor for letting me steal that)
May our faith grow, in the knowledge and strength of the Lord Jesus Christ.
For the advancement of the Gospel
To the glory of God our Father.

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

- PNC

Effective and efficient is a delicate and difficult balance... for nearly everything one sets out to accomplish.

Effective implies a level of thoroughness. A knowing of what to do, when to do, how to do and with whom, that leads one to believe a well-organized game plan was well-executed.

Efficient, on the other hand, implies a level of quickness. A keeping up a good pace, for an extended period of time, so that the well-executed, well-organized plan is completed in good time.

However, effectiveness, depending on the task, can take a long time. Likewise, efficiency comes in degrees, as not everything is meant to go at the quickest pace possible.

I thought about this yesterday afternoon, as my wife and I returned from an overnight get-away.

Not everything can be rushed. Not everything can be done quickly.

Faith in God; one's spiritual journey... is an investment. A lifetime investment.
Marriage; sharing life with you spouse... is an investment. A lifetime investment.
Parenting; raising children ready to take on the world... is an investment. A lifetime investment.

The most effective of these... require organization and follow-through.
The most efficient of these... require a commitment to invest for life.

And in a day and age, when these characteristics are applauded when achieved, yet not valued enough to be universal, we find ourselves in a dangerous place.

Decades of marriage... awesome. But we can't do that. Those days don't exist anymore.
Great parents and healthy kids... that's great. But you don't know our family; my kids.
A life of faith? That's good for you; but that's not for me.

Yet the stability, the experience, and the confidence of a life lived well, because they were committed to God and to family can not be ignored. It doesn't mean these three areas of life don't have difficulty, struggle and frustration. They do. But effective and efficient in faith and family require a commitment to a lifetime investment.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, that a lifetime commitment, a lifetime investment would not be avoided or deflected, but encouraged. May people experience the power and presence of God in their life, for the remainder of their days. Pray for strength and clarity of purpose as they live out a genuine faith in God. Pray for Godly homes, Godly marriages, Godly parents and Godly children; may their be a re-commitment to life for God and to remain committed to our spouse and our children; that we would live real lives of real faith not afraid to let our light shine before men; that they may know our Father God in Heaven. May our lives bring glory and honor to Him because we've remained faithful to Him and to those He has blessed us to share life together.

Investments with eternal returns.
For the glory of God.
For the advancement of the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I sat yesterday afternoon, headed west across the state line, sitting in some serious construction traffic. According to my GPS estimated time of arrival compared to my actual arrival, it really felt like that was an more than the extra 10-15 minutes caused by the delay. Some days, I'm not sure why flashing red lights are more nerve-racking... the ones in the rear-view mirror or through the windshield, as everyone tries to figure out which lane is moving faster.

Be that as it may, I kept a close eye on east-bound traffic; staying very aware of my ETA back home, should I have to sit in that mess of red lights. And the back-up getting longer. And slower. And longer. As I got on the overpass, to change freeways, there was the end of the line... yeah; we're not sitting in that on the way back. A few miles out of my way, but I by-passed the whole mess, got on significantly closer to the state-line and was back to my starting reference point in about the same time as it took getting there. Now, as long as there's no more delays the rest of the way (which there weren't, at least on my side of the expressway).

So it's #missionsFriday. Why are we talking traffic?

Because, for the sake of the hypothetical.

What if, people were exiting corporate America to pursue ministry and church leadership at a rate on par with the current burnout rate? Roughly 400-600 missionaries leave the ministry every year. For the sake of math, let's call it 520/yr. Ten per week. One every 16 hrs and 40 minutes!

What if people were stepping up to the plate, saying what can I do for the kingdom of God at the same clip at which current ministers and missionaries are struggling, leaving, falling to the way-side and failing out of their leadership position.

How different would church life look in such cross-town traffic?
How much stronger, the mission field?

Life is hard.
The struggle is real.
The ministry is challenging.
The expectation is high.
The commitment is demanding.
The reward is a blessing.
The consequence is heavy.
The balance is razor-thin.

You have to want ministry. You have to want to do ministry.
Calling? Yes.
Purpose? Absolutely.
Willingness? Crucial.

Like emergency responders, may there be a readiness to run INTO the fire, to rescue a lost and dying world.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, for a rising up within the church, of those who will step up and into ministry and missions. Pray; that God would strength and support pastors and missionaries alike, on the verge of burnout. May God stem the tide of the exodus, for those heavy and burdened; being left in the wake of the pressures of ministry. May they be renewed, revived and refreshed. May they be encouraged, by those coming alongside them, to pray, support and join with them. Pray that the back-up to get into ministry would be greater than those desiring to leave. May God help us, strengthen and encourage church leadership through prayer, friendship and support.

A willingness and a readiness;
To join in the support,
Advancing the cause of Jesus Christ
That God would draw all unto Himself.
Not willing that any should be left... un-rescued.

- PNC

Yesterday morning, I couldn't believe what I was reading. We've all said cryptic things before; statements that drop hints that something is amiss and you may or may not get the picture of what's going on. Once revealed, you realize just how incredible the result appears.

It's usually not an amazing or impressive "incredible" either, but a disbelief of incredible. A nearly rendering speechless, incredible. Come to think of it, there was another situation a few days ago, the end result of which left me in the same state of perspective.

So I had time to consider and process some thoughts about what this, before I had chance to discuss the matter with my best friend. A couple of questions, to make sure my understanding and logic were sound and sure enough, the conclusion that the end result was unbelievable was confirmed.

As I pondered the "what-if" of the details of this matter, I couldn't help but think; "if this was really the case; if there was any evidence of this more than what's on the appearance, wouldn't it be made known earlier? Wouldn't there have been concerns and questions brought up and ask long before? Red flags should be rising up across the landscape! Yet, they weren't.

Not everyone will always be "in the know" in the understanding and thought processes that go into decisions, actions and statements of a situation and that's fine. It's normal. It's healthy. There is a safety and security element, that gives protection to a community that information isn't wide-open and left exposed for misinterpretation.

As my dad stated the other day, people get the final 30 seconds or 2 minutes of a video or a conversation, totally missing the 5-10 minutes leading up to it; have no context for the matter, or fail to get the context, yet make assumptions and decisions on that result. It's a dangerous, unhealthy way to live, quite frankly.

It's even more unhealthy, in the church and it's leadership. This is why it's important to have strong, faithful, upright and Godly deacons and advisory boards. They are not to be "yes" people; however, they are "in the room" regarding circumstances and situations, conversations and the resulting decisions. They help bring and explain context when it remains elusive to the community-at-large. These are the ones, watching the horizon. These are the watchtower, of church leadership. When healthy, they protect the church community and bring a level of accountability to pastors; working to create a cohesive environment, where problems can be spotted and addressed appropriately.  Nobody likes it when life is amiss and we all have a sense when it is. Thus, it's important to have people that have the ability to discern such moments and help bring about change and correction when there is a legitimate need to move in that direction.

Pray this #deaconThursday, for the health of deacon and advisory boards with in the church. Pray God would give them increased understanding and discernment for the pastors and church communities they serve. As they stand along the church watchtowers, may the have the foresight to see problems and potential weaknesses. Whether they be approaching from outside the church or within, may the have the strength and ability address problems appropriately, respond accordingly and navigate situations and circumstances that honor God. May they have attitudes of grace and compassion, while holding fast to courage and conviction. Pray God would guard their hearts and minds; that their lives would not be amiss; thereby rendering them unable to recognize and protect when church life goes amiss and starts getting of course.

Watching the horizon
From the watchtower.
God help them serve well.

- PNC

There's comes many times in lives, times of assessment; times of evaluation. Depending on the circumstances, you or may not see them approaching. Whether they be moments of occasion or specific dates on the calendar, you know these are times to reflect and take things into consideration. Other times may not be so designated, yet you know when something occurs, that perhaps it's time to take a look.

We all go through assessments. Whether they be at tax time, the educational concerns of a child or a behavioral or attitude problem with a trouble teen; anyone seeking to improve their financial picture or sort through an increasingly difficult relationship or marriage... such can not be overlooked. Granted, the details may be hard to sort through, analyze and discuss, but doing nothing solves nothing.

Then there are matters of faith and our place in life in relationship to what God is accomplishing. We have to take a look at where we are and what we understand God is working out; we have to sort through the details, thoughts and concerns and ultimately, bring ourselves into or back into, as the case may be, in alignment with God and His Word.

Assessments often take time. The findings and the results that come about take even more time. Coming up with game-plans and steps of action that need to be taken to bring the situation under control and matters of importance back on course... these take time still.

There is a growth and maturing process for each and everyone of us... and those times are not always obvious. So, about the only thing that can be developed early on, in one's faith, is a sensitivity for the things of God and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in one's life. When the willingness for God to work and reveal things begins to fade, we lose the ability to see clearly that which would attempt to come against us and throw us off course.

On this #youthPastorWednesday, pray God would help, pastors and parents instill in our youth, a sensitivity for God, for His Word, for the power and indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Pray for a willingness to be used of God and to desire to be in alignment with Him, rather than personality or a society. Pray for a strength and a resolve; that when trials and tribulations come; when difficulties surround and tensions mount, that today's youth would stand firm on the promises of God that are YES and AMEN to them that believe. May the plans of the enemy be thwarted, in his attempts to distract, derail and destroy this generation. Pray a hunger and passion for God; that as the praise song Set a Fire plays even now, that each of us would indeed "want more of you, God."

Suffer the little ones to come to Christ.
For His glory.
For the advancement of the kingdom of God.

- PNC

The more quickly time passes, the sooner new opportunities come your way and prompt decisions to be made regarding them. Time does certainly seem to be cruising along.

There are multiple wedding anniversaries over the next week in my immediate family. There are two work anniversaries this week. The few months that the intern at our church has come and gone already. Plus, just 24 hrs ago, I was writing yesterday's prayer!

I threw in the bit about the intern, because, while our church still searches for a new youth pastor, the announcement was made that we have extended an opportunity to our intern, to come on staff, full-time! This is the second time, in the past 12-15 months, that we have brought on a 1st time pastor (last summer was children's pastor)

As Pastor shared the announcement, he referred to a concept from the book, Good to Great (which is a great read, if you haven't read it yet). The theory is, that if as an organization, you have the right people on the bus, (right place, right time) you'll be able to accomplish incredible things. Conversely, if you have the wrong people, whatever you to will be a struggle with limited success.

So this opportunity seemed like a good fit. As we've prayed in recent weeks and months regarding responsibilities, Chris will bring oversight to a number of ministries, with the formal title of Connections Pastor. This goes right in hand, with the Good to Great concept. Duplicating one's efforts, so that even more can be accomplished.

Even Scripture talks about the power of people working together, for they get a greater reward for their work. So one who can create and lead great teams and place people in authority who will do the same with their responsibilities results in exponentially extending one's reach, influence and impact... on a community, on an industry, on a society.

However, first timers in any role can be daunting. Exciting, yet humbling. Confidence-inspiring, yet anxiety-inducing. Grateful, but stressful. Thrilling, yet nerve-wrecking. First experiences, if we are not careful, can set the tone for one's life (or at least the next significant portion of it). Patterns, habits and thought-processes will influence in ways never before witnessed or understood, so to say this is a crucial time, is an understatement.

Moments like these must be covered in prayer.

Thus, pray this #associatePastorTuesday, for Chris, and many more life him; finding themselves in first-time pastoral positions. Whether they have just come on staff or are still in the first position as pastors, pray for a strength and a quickening in the spirit. May God use this time of learning, maturing and growth in their lives to be used for His glory. Pray for a grace for mistakes and mishaps made along the way; grace from others and for themselves. May patience and understanding be with them. Pray that good habits, sound though-processes and healthy patterns will be established early in, in these young ministries... that the foundations would be unshakable. That when trials and troubles and crisis moments of decision arise; they will seek the face of God; that the will humble themselves and prayer; that the will admit their need for help and advice and stick to the courage of their convictions. Pray in all things, their lives and ministries would bring glory and honor to God for all the years they serve the body of Christ and the kingdom of God.

Raise them up, God.
Not for themselves,
But to lead those around them
Closer to You.

- PNC

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

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

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

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

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

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

So. Outta. Luck.

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

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

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

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

- PNC

It occurred to me late last night, that's it's hard to be effective if you aren't already moving...

One can't be diligent at doing nothing.

Technically, they can, but there are many names for that and it's usually not something for which people praise and applaud your efforts.

Being effective means being in motion.

Then, I awake this morning as I'm getting ready to write, I read writer Jeff Groins latest blog post.

On being stuck in life and decision-making, he writes;

"What will matter is that you acted, that you made a contribution, and that you decided to do something.
Or that you didn't."

He goes on to share what his friend calls the bicycle principle.

"It's easier to make changes in life once you are moving... isn't it interesting that failure usually happens not when we move too quickly, but too slowly?"

So, a simple message, on simple diligence.

If I may use my own experience... consider Bring Me 70?

God's helping daily to bring fresh content and a fresh perspective and I'm bringing to the table, that now with some 400+ daily prayers, there's no turning around. I have to keep going and be diligent in continuing the work.

So, pray with me, this #effectiveSunday for churches that are stuck. May they begin to pray anew and seek the face of God in greater ways. Pray they begin to start to move in directions that honor God, yet may provide greater insight into where they are to go and when they are to move. Pray for creativity; focus and energy as the Holy Spirit leads and directs. Pray a fresh element of stepping out in faith and that as they do, God would work the miraculous in the midst.

May we be found faithful;
In that whatever we do,
We do as unto the Lord.
For His glory and honor.

- PNC

It's 2016, nearly August at that, and sadly, many still believe Christians to be of another world and out of touch with the one in which we all live. Somewhere, somehow, we've gotten grouped together an thrown under, which oddly enough, is what every other people group (whether religious, culture, economic, or social) seems to have a problem with when it happens to them.

As I shared with Matt on Thursday, Christians live in reality just like every one else.

We are nothing, but...

Real People, with
Real Problems, possessing a
Real Faith, serving a
Real God, who has a
Real Plan,  and a
Real Destiny, for
Every Person...

... who calls on the Name of the Lord.

The only thing that separates a Christian from a non-Christian is that one has made a decision to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, through redemption made available when Christ died on a cross. The non-Christian isn't inferior or less important as a result... if anything, they are more important because God is not willing that any should perish! And time, as we all know, is slipping away fast.

It doesn't make the Christian better; it doesn't make them out of touch; it doesn't make them any less real or the struggles they face any easier. It does mean we answer to a higher authority than ourselves.

As an aside... I've got the "rock-u-mentary" videos on YouTube playing in the background from a DeGarmo & Key concert from time long past, when Dana Key just stood and said the following:

"That's what distinguishes us from the world; not that we know the vocabulary of Jesus; but that we obey him."

The world does it's own, listens to it's own and follows it's own.
But for the believer, we listen, follow and do what God has set out for us to accomplish. Not for the applause and accolades of man, bur for the glory of God.

In the middle of all of that, are struggles, battles, arguments, sickness, career decisions, parenting problems, relationship woes... and the prayers of faith that draw us closer to God with the understanding that everything we encounter has a plan and purpose that may not make senses this side of eternity; but in the sovereignty of God will be effective for the advancement of the Gospel.

All that lies with us, is our response to God and our response to life as it unfolds before us, one day at a time.

It is not faith in Christ that causes blinders to the world, but that the enemy of every soul that would desire the world to have zero relationship with God and will do everything possible to blind the world to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

As stated by the character, Coach Grant Taylor, in the movie Facing The Giants, {one} may not want to make a decision for Jesus Christ, because it will change your life!

For those ready for a changed life, Jesus is the only answer.
For those set on life as it is, Jesus is not even an option.

But that won't keep Christ from knocking on the door of their heart.
Nor should it keep the Christian from sharing the love of Christ to those around us.

Pray, this #communitySaturday, that God would help us engage community to the truth of God and His Word and the love He has for us, by sending Christ in our place. May the sovereignty of God orchestrate events that would bring the lost and the dying to recognize the purpose God has for them. Pray the truth would be revealed that God loves us too much to leave us to our devices and desires. May the religious blinders fall where they actually exist, but more importantly, would the blinders of offense and frustration; fear and anger, doubt and disbelief fall to the side. May the love of Christ touch hearts and in fact, change lives.

Life is hard.
God is real.
Faith is the key.
For the glory of God.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

After writing yesterday's prayer, early in the morning before work, I took a quick break to check social media before performing the one or two finally elements so I could publish the prayer. Sadly, first in the news feed, as the update that a friend of the family, a man who played on the worship team with me mom in the church our family attended since I was just a little tyke, had passed away, either late Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.

The body of Christ has lost another giant of the faith.

I spent most of the day in reflection... from what I can recall from childhood memories, I want to say that he was born blind. If I'm remember wrong, then he lost his sight early in life, as it seems he and his wife were newlyweds when we met them. At any rate... Doug had an incredible outlook on life. Always upbeat for as long as I can recall. He was a guy you enjoyed talking with, possessed an incredible love for the things of God and was a talented guitar player to boot!

I hadn't seen them in recent years, except to keep in touch on occasion with social media. His battle with cancer went downhill fast over the past few weeks and our thoughts and prayers go out to his wife and son.

Thus, I thought much about his life. And on this #missionsFriday, I concluded the following:

We are all missionaries.

A point of confession... for whatever reason, I am not outspoken when it comes to witnessing. For any number of reasons, as years have passed... perhaps its the perception of witnessing. At work or in life, most people knew (or know) I am a Christian, either through my lifestyle or activities or conversations along the way. I've shared matters of faith and life with those who aren't saved, but rarely, would I consider those moments straight-up "witnessing" moment. If anything, they were more like planting seeds.

As I thought about this, it struck me odd. Not knowing what to do about it, how to handle it or what I could do to change it, as even the job I have now, doesn't permit extended periods of time to chat throughout the day of anything of substance in the passing of literally just a couple of minutes. In an unusual turn, I had about 30 minutes yesterday to work with a man and have a conversation.

I told him of the accidents in the past few weeks, as I shared yesterday. Eventually, shared the passing of Doug. As he replied on what a crummy run of events, God dropped that this was a moment. So the conversation turned... as an opportunity to be thankful of the assurance of seeing Doug again. Of being able to go through life's events confident God has a plan and a purpose. A few moments later, he asked if I was a Christian or a Catholic.

And there was the door opening even wider. As our time came to a close, he shared how his parents attended church and what not, yet a few years later had gotten divorced. The two events seemed contradictory and had therefore, thrown him off when it came to faith and the church. In the end though, I extended an invitation for him to come out and visit our church some Sunday.

I couldn't help but smile as I drove off... thankful for the moment. Thankful to be able to share Doug's life. Never bitter towards God regarding his blindness and his lot in life. Never hindered by his blindness to achieve and accomplish things in this life and for the kingdom of God. Just an incredible guy and an incredible legacy.

A gentle, loving reminder... that whoever you are and whatever you have; a willingness to be used by God gives Him opportunities to open doors and make everything work. Perhaps these recent events and the passing of Doug; maybe... just maybe, my perspective to continue to trust God in all things and to share the same will be the catalyst that prompts Matt to consider a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that as we go through this life, we will remember and approach our days with the understanding, that we are all missions. May we not be so concerned with our willingness to go to Africa or the Dominican Republic (as grateful as I am for my friends who are in both countries), but concerned with our willingness to be used right where we are. Pray we hold fast to the faith; confident in God's ability to work the details and circumstances of our lives for His glory and honor. May we be as Doug; refusing to be bitter and hindered by the setbacks of life, pressing ever closer to God and walking ever further to accomplish what God has in store for our lives. Pray, God would use the circumstances we don't understand (whether it's Matt in needing to come to Christ for himself or Doug's family and friends in response to his passing), that God would be glorified. May such moments be instruments to reveal the truth of God's love and His Word; that faith would arise and be strengthened anew, by the power of the Holy Spirit at work within each and every one of us.

People need Jesus.
Across the globe.
Across the street.
Across the hall.
For we all have a story to tell;
The story of Christ at work in our lives.
For the glory of God and the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Almost three weeks ago, my best friend's co-worker was involved in an accident in a company vehicle, that sadly resulted in a fatality, the 61-yr old lady who had turned in front of them. A week and half ago, maybe almost two, a guy from a competing company of that same best friend, was involved in an accident with a semi-truck. He too, sadly, was the fatality. A week ago, tomorrow, I was involved in an accident, with the young man who ran a red light while I was driving a company vehicle. And now??

Tuesday night, I'm on the phone with that same best friend. He is walking into an appointment late in the afternoon, when he says, "gotta go...wife is calling in". As it turns out, she was calling to inform him that their daughter had just been involved in an accident. Oi Vey!

Meanwhile, just a little over an hour before that was happening, I had gotten a text from a guy at church. The 47-yr old son of another dear friend, had had a heart attack Tuesday morning. In case you missed that, a heart-attack... at 47! Both of these friends, a former deacon on our church's advisory board and a current deacon, respectively.

As I considered and prayed over these situations, I couldn't help but consider the Biblical truth... indeed, it rains on the just and the unjust; the righteous and the unrighteous.

Correspondingly, yesterday's verse of the day, from YouVersion, was 1 Corinthians 2:9.

"But as it is written, eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him."

Amazingly, it all came together. One simply doesn't know what, who and how God will orchestrate events and circumstances in our lives to bring about glory and honor to His name. It seems odd and unfair in our finite minds, but as a lady even testified during last night's devotional at church, God does have a plan to use ever situation and battle we face; no matter what it is, to bring about the miraculous in drawing us closer to Him and pointing others to Him.

Sure, it does seem unfair. There will always be questions. There will, inevitably, be fear and frustration. Trials and tribulations visit all of our households. None of that, however, takes away from the goodness and greatness of God, whose mercies are new every morning. Today is simply a new day, that no matter who you are, where you are, with whatever you have; God is the God of the miraculous.

On this #deaconThursday, as we seek the face of God, pray for these my friends, deacons and church support staff, for whom life is striking close. For situations that are causing anxiety and fear; for circumstances with unanswered questions and uncertain futures, may faith arise; standing the face of adversity, as they refuse to allow the enemy to destroy their lives and homes. Pray they would hold fast to the promise that God has given; He does work all things together for the good of those who love Him. May what the enemy intended to harm and derail us be used to glorify God and on an even stronger course of faith. Pray the spirit of fear to be gone. May the love of God and the soundness of mind fill their soul and spirits, as the days and weeks unfold; as decisions are made; as recovery takes place. While life moves on, may these moments of crisis move us closer to Father God, the lover and maker of our souls; in whom we live, move and have our being.

May God keep us close to His presence,
Despite the accidents and incidents of life.
For His glory, we pray.
In the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ.

- PNC

My day yesterday wasn't a typically day, so I didn't go through my usual process of prayer and reflection as time passed on. What's more, I didn't get off until later in the day, which occasionally happens. The downside to this, is finding someone to watch the kids, for those time when my wife has to leave for work before I return.

These are times, I'm glad I'm able to rely on my parents. Nearby, they, like if not all grandparents, love spending time with the grand-kids. And I am incredibly grateful they are able to help cover the gaps in our schedule.

Life gets busy for all of us and we all need help (some of us more than others, I'll admit... perhaps even to needing to be at or near the front of that line). Be that as it may, there are great dividends to be gained by having people in your life and on your team who have your back, whether working alongside or ready to step in and help when their number is called.

Much like Associate Pastors. We all know they play incredible roles, have important responsibilities and tons of things to do elsewhere, but for the team of pastors who can be relied on to step up to the plate when their number is called... they are worth their weight in gold, especially when their positive response is one of willingness and sacrificial in nature. Their ability to step in and cover the gaps, when needed, are greatly appreciated.

The balance; however, comes when such people and circumstances are taken for granted and not given the appreciation they deserve. It's a careful line to walk, even when the conversation never goes in the direction that would lead to severed ties and crossed boundaries. But the potential is there and thus, worthy of our prayer.

So, pray with me this #associatePastorTuesday, for this balancing act within life and ministry. For those Associates who are being taken for granted, pray God would strengthen their spirits and give them wisdom. If conversations need to happen to bring about change, may they be seasoned with grace, love and understanding. May the tensions subside, the bitterness and resentment flee as trust and boundaries are re-established.... or perhaps established for the first time. Meanwhile, pray for church leaders struggling, where perhaps associates are frustrated and or unwilling to cover the gaps. They may not be being taken advantage of, but difficulties are beginning to arise from whatever prevents them from stepping up to the plate. Pray pastoral teams and leaders would find this balance where it's out of control; find ways to strengthen it if they do have it and find ways to implement it if they don't.

For as goes church leadership,
So goes the church fellowship.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC