Surely, I can't be the only one who has noticed this phenomenon. We look at today's battles, struggles, frustrations and decisions and spend considerable amounts of time in thought and prayer, in conversation and consideration as to what we should do regarding a matter. Then somewhere along the way, perhaps at some point in the conversation you realize...

... if I had done things differently earlier, perhaps this present situation would be so difficult an ordeal to manage or solve.

We can't live in the past; and by and large, you really can't go back and correct. Certain circumstance you may be able to repair and "make right" and you should, given the opportunity and means. But it's the past that keeps us up, causes a point of frustration and regret and has the potential to bring more confusion to the present day reality rather than bringing insight and clarity as to what we should do differently.

So for what it's worth, while we aren't fortune tellers, neither are we history's correcter. All you have is today's reality, today's resources, today's information and the lessons learned along the way. The ideal solution may not be possible, so while compromise may be point of agony, doing little or nothing about a matter is worse.

On this #deaconThursday, pray for church leadership, that God would guide them in the decisions they face. Pray that regret would frustrate their responsibility. Pray that yesterday's confusion would be useful to bring clarity to the matter at hand. May God grant them wisdom beyond their years and experiences. Pray for their conversations; that communication be honest and real, full of truth and of love; not antagonistic, but productive and fruitful. May fear of the critics and criticism neither hinder nor frustrate leadership from doing what we needs to be done and furthermore, doing what God has called and directed them as He guides their feet and illuminates their path.

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

- PNC

We plan, we strategize, we dream. We talk this and look at that. We prepare on all kinds of levels, pray over all manner of people and circumstances all the while, looking forward to the days ahead... sometimes with greater anticipation than others.

Then life happens. Or Murphy, as it's oft referred to in... albeit in a beloved (read: begrudged) tone of voice.
And you realize a truth that applies to every circumstance, dream and relationship.

You don't have as much time as you think you do.

A problem you know is on the horizon will appear quicker than you anticipate.
A matter which you know can be delayed for a short time will find a way to speed up the clock.
You can no more turn your back on life for a split second anymore than you would your kid and come to find out that half second cost you three and one half years.

You watch life go by, particularly through the lens of ministry and it almost makes you wish it was impossible to blink. But the body needs rest. And the soul need refreshing. And the eyes, time to heal.

For the body needs time to gather its' strength to endure.
And the soul, time to hold fast to hope.
The eyes, time to renew its' perspective.

If anything, life is a lesson in preparedness, for the inevitable as much as the unexpected; for the known horizon as much as the peripheral blind-spot.

We have been given life.
We create life
We steward life.
For however long it lasts, and whoever we may share it will, God help us to live and manage it well.

So pray to that end, this #youthPastorWednesday. May God help us to be good stewards of time, resources and relationships. Pray that God would maximize the investment that we make into fulfilling our calling and purpose and the what we contribute to the lives of those around us. Pray that God would strength and renew those struggling to endure and feel as though hope is slipping from their grasp. Pray for those who feel as though they are losing perspective; may God remind them of who they are, who He is, what He has done and what He desires for their lives.

For as long as we have breath,
Even if we don't have as much time as we think,
He is not done with us yet.
May it be for His continued glory
By His unending grace.

- PNC

When in doubt, ask someone who knows what they're looking at.
And when in doubt regarding your own life, ask Him who knows you best.

All too often we go through a situation getting ideas and opinions and don't reach out to an expert. And when we do, we often don't do as a first response, but much later in the conversation, to the point of a last resort. We've all done, it matters important and not, but all of them secondary to what God is doing and working in the lives of those who are His.

As I heard a pastor friend confess recently to his congregation... it's easy to study in order to have a great sermon, to prepare to impress, to be the one that is looked up to and sought after for insight, advice and prayer and whatever else may capture the attention and feed the ego. Sometimes, it's that obvious. Other times, perhaps not so much.

You would think that it would be easy to do ministry and the preparation of it from a place of love. We know this, because we are so quick to criticize those in ministry as though they are doing it from a motive that is anything but a place of love.

Yet, ultimately, their ministry and it's effectiveness will be hindered without doing it for the love of God and the love of people as their primary motivator. I titled this post, a second look, because while we hope pastors enter the ministry with this understanding, sometimes the only one who can point out that other motivators have stepped in and over, is God Himself, placing His finger on hearts and minds with kindness; that the mark is being missed.

Pray this #seniorPastorMonday, that pastors would not miss the mark. Pray that they would continue to operate their church and ministry from a place of love. May there be an awareness about their lives that they would recognize when their priorities and rationale for decisions and process have changed. Pray they would possess an ever-sensitive heart for the prompting and leading of the Holy Spirit, not only for what God would have them to accomplish, but also what God would desire to accomplish in their lives. Pray that distractions, detours and delays would be short-lived, and ultimately ineffective in the grand design of God sovereign plan. May they come out with a deeper relationship for God and a deeper passion for the people within the reach of their ministry.

An open mind and an open heart
To the work of God
In the lives of the leadership of the church
As an example to the body
That God isn't done with any of us.
For His glory.

- PNC

A Happy Father's Day to you Dad's out there in the Bring Me 70 / pray4pastors universe!!

I can't thank you enough for joining me in praying for pastors and those in ministry that help us lead our families, churches and communities. There's so much that goes into fatherhood. And we know the reality of that matter is that it doesn't take much to become a father. But once that is your reality, being a father that is known and respected as "good" or better is work. A lot of work. Even when you have zero energy, mentally, physically, emotionally, spiritually, and financially.

Fatherhood is an investment... in the most important thing that could ever be entrusted to you. A life created by God who bears His image and your name.

Long before we can do what God has called us to do, we have to acknowledge who He has called us to be... and understand that God's blessing came before His instruction.

Doesn't God give the greatest example of Fatherhood?  An ever-present help in times of trouble!

Dad's who can be called upon in times of trouble can be trusted, most likely, because they were so present when there was an absence of trouble. Simply being present speaks volumes to those who want to know that someone will be available when needed.

It's how we know we can call on the name of the Lord and place our trust in God.  For He has always been and will always be. And I love the idea that even when we can trace God, we can trust Him. We may not know what's going on and why He is doing what He is doing, but we can trust that there is a plan and purpose.

So too, is the way to be both effective and efficient in our lives and ministries... to live with an intentional plan and a grand purpose. Ideally, inspired, blessed and anointed by the hand of God. For immediate after God created man, He blessed them and then gave them an assignment.

Pray, this #effectiveSunday, for God's continued hand of blessing and favor, particular over the fathers who lead our homes and families, churches and communities. May we be the men of God that He has called us to be and do the things in this world that He has called us to do. Pray for a grace about our lives that would testify of the goodness of God even in spite of our mistakes both great and small, of both little consequence and of great consequence. Pray that we would live with an awareness of God's moving in our lives and a sense of awe of the people and responsibilities and resources that have been entrusted to our care and oversight. May we neither neglect the role we play in our relationships, nor be absent from them altogether. Pray that we would follow God's example, to be an ever-present help to those in need as God has been for us when we ourselves have been in great trouble.

Created in the image of God
To reflect the image of God.
All for the glory of God.

- PNC

I didn't plan on doing any sort of a related post after yesterday's insight regarding government, but here I am. Just a quick piece of a monologue that was playing... not sure I channel surfed across a Catholic radio station or what, except the host was Catholic, but he was talking about how much we expect from government.

More specifically, we was dealing with a hot-button issue that has been quite a long-standing one in the political arena for decades now... of course, what hasn't. But he was talking about the verses that discuss welcoming the stranger. And he made an incredibly poignant point... (say that five times real fast)

To welcome the stranger is an individual command, not a national policy.

You may disagree with me and that's fine and there's a point to this as we pray for missionaries, so hear me out on this.

The role of government is to defend it's borders and to serve and protect its citizenry. If can be objective with me for a moment,  we don't take an alcoholic to a bar and then advise them not to drink. We don't hand the keys of a Ferrari to a teenage driver and tell them not to wreck it. We don't send soldiers off to war with open arms, no weapons and a smile. Although it's be interesting to see how the enemy would react to such kindness; but I have a feeling evil would take over.

People have their role, just as much as government has theirs... as does the church for that matter. God gave strict instructions for how Israel as a nation was to conduct it's affairs and how it was to handle other societies, cultures and countries. And yet, God speaks very specifically to the people, as to what they should do when they found themselves in certain circumstance with individuals, neighbors and strangers. Those commands differ greatly!

Furthermore, there's so much that even within the church, that we've come to expect that government will take over and handle that is also, not theirs to handle. For example, true religion is taking care of widows and orphans. And yet government handles social services across the board, for everyone including widows and orphans. And so much more. Some of that they should be involved. Others, perhaps, not so much. There's so much where the church should be leading and used to at one time. Many ministries are working on correcting the matter; many more are not.

So, as we pray for missionaries, may we also keep in mind, of our role in the mission of the Gospel. The state will not share the love of Jesus Christ. They should protect their people, including those who do share this eternal message of hope; yet sadly, even that seems to be under scrutiny to varying degrees.

On this #missionsFriday, pray that God would watch over those who are formally serving full-time to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ. As they ministry in countries and environments much more hostile and dangerous, pray that God would protect their homes and families as they have stepped into the darkness that they may be light. Pray also, that in our own lives, we would live with that perspective. May the church go above and beyond to be ministers of grace, hope, healing and truth; making such an impact that peoples first call when in times of need would be to the people of God, rather than the positions of power held by the state.

All for the glory of God
And the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Forgive me for referencing another sermon, but I thought it was an interesting take. There's obviously a lot more to expand on, plus I missed part of the broadcast, but Dr. David Jeremiah was talking about governments and how society can get so frustrated with their operation, regardless of its' established format. One could argue the point he made, that any government is better than no government at all. Some form of body politic is better than anarchy. Feel free to discuss amongst yourselves later.

More importantly though, he was making the point that regardless of whatever government is in place, it will ultimately disappoint for one reason only. Because behind the institution of government are people. Humans... we think. (that was a joke). Flawed humans at that. Some might sarcastically joke that a handful are seriously flawed and we could compare lists... later.

But this truth is bigger than government; the reality applies to all institutions.

Marriages will have days of disappointment; for a flawed man will leave his home and cleave to a beautiful, but flawed (beautifully flawed?) woman.
Children will be disappointed, for there are no perfect parents.
The educational system will leave us wanting; for teachers, instructors and professors are flawed.
The justice system will make injustices worse at times; for the judges and others involved in the process are flawed (as evidenced by a local judge was removed from the bench today, for cause)

Did I miss anything? Oh yes...ministry. Religious organizations and organized religion, churches and para-church ministries... they will all have their days of let-downs and turn-offs. For the pastors and leaders, decision-makers and deacons, administrators and staff will all have a bad day, an off day and a major mess day.  It's easy to exit once. If there's a pattern, you'll exit often. And eventually, one just may never return. Even if people have the clearest understanding that humanity is flawed. Grace doesn't always prevail, even within the four walls of the church.

Pray this #deaconThursday for those in church leadership, that they would have the strength and courage to continue to exercise wisdom and discernment as they lead and advise. While you can't please all the people all the time, pray that there would be a grace about their lives that would allow them to properly handle and resolve problems as they arise. Pray that those within the church and under the ministry would remember that no matter our position in life or in Christiandom, that we are all flawed and prone to failures and moments of mistakes. May God help leadership to lead by example, and encourage of us to do and be better followers of Jesus Christ.

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

- PNC

My apologies this is arriving late. Wednesdays are my incredibly long days. Be that as it is, I caught part of a conversation on the radio today, and they were talking about the transition in recent years, regarding families. Particularly, how families have moved from the marriage being the most important, to the kids having top priority.

We've all had our moments, but this has been a trending pattern for quite some time, now. And we've all witnessed the fall out and the aftermath. Sad when it transpires, frustrating to watch in the lives of friends and family; perhaps even your own. Of course, you've heard me make this transition before... ministry is not immune to this phenomenon.

In fact, marriages suffer when kids are the top priority, but here's an interesting dynamic...

Marriage obviously suffers if the ministry takes a commanding, top priority.
But here's my perspective and see if this bears witness:

How badly does ministry suffer when one's marriage isn't top priority?

Surely, it stands to reason that if the family suffers long-term consequences when the marriage is neglected, then how much more would a ministry suffer when the marriage of the pastorate is struggling?

I've been following a social media post of a Dave Ramsey community of people working through their finances to become debt-free. One wife shared the struggle of her family and finances and it resonated with me as I read it. The comments offered tons of suggestions and somehow, I read through the lines and realized everyone was missing the struggle. And as the comments continued, more people missed what was making this particular situation unusually difficult. But again, having experienced very similar, I was relating. If you've heard Dave's show, you'll recognize this oft quoted phrase, "Live like no one else, so that later, you can live and give like no one else." He's talking about the sacrifices you make now, so that you can win and later live a great and generous life.

And it was in that spirit that I offered this lesson, that I think leads us well to prayer.

"Tonight's life lesson. The altar can only hold so many sacrifices. It's entirely possible to be so focused on the sacrifices, that you end up sacrificing things that you never intended to be near that altar, let alone placed upon it. By all means, live like no one else in the short term, but be careful that the "later" living isn't done in loneliness."

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would help, to lead, guide and direct the time and place for sacrifices and altar. Pray that they would be made at the appropriate place and time; that the right things would be sacrificed. May that which needs to be made priority would happen and may they be put in their proper order and place. Pray that no matter what challenges and difficulties they face, that the marriages of our pastors would be guarded and protected. Pray for families and kids; grandkids and for generations... relationships matter, and may God help the balancing act that is building and maintaining healthy and strong relationships, both with God and those closest to us as well as those under one's care through the avenue of ministry.

For we can only do what we can do
Even with God's help and by His strength.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

All this conversation about God moving and people and churches taking different directions and making changes with operations and approaches got me thinking again. (I know, somewhat dangerous, and "again" recognizes the potential for this to be an issue revisited)

What happens when people don't buy in to the vision?

Well, let's operate from the understanding that church leadership and pastoral staff have proven to be people of prayer and the Word, consistent in season and out of season. Not perfect mind you, but there is a depth of character and maturity, especially in spiritual matters whereby God has positioned them and mightily used them and the fruit of their ministry shows this to be true.

I think the worst case (or at least what might appear to be so) is the parting of ways within the congregation who don't agree to the point of separation. Are they right or the pastor? That's a delicate situation and we've all seen it backfire way more often than it's been of benefit, at least in the short-term. What happens when people begin to silently wirhdraw and distance themselves? Others may notice, or they may do so internally; staying in ministry roles, but not giving it their all, nor their best attitude in the process. Who benefits from that?

Are both parties hearing God and is it He who is organizing and rearranging lives and purpose and He's doing so because the change wouldn't happen otherwise? Is stubbornness, tradition and other factors at work in people's response?

I've had changes occur in life that led to  a change in church becoming necessary. And as previously stated, no church is perfect, there wasn't an issue with a church that presented itself as the driving factor for making a switch. It was simply life. But having said that, it would seem to be a difficult and painful process for there to truly be a cause or problem that would in fact change one's interaction with the church, both in the local congregation and the church-at-large.

So, the trust factor that a pastor places in God as a ministry or mission plots change, multiplies many times over to having to trust the rest of the church leadership and congregation that they will be on board and change with it. This is not a light and simple ordeal, neither for the pastor casting vision nor the believer's response.

And on that note, pray this #seniorPastorMonday for confidence. While every leader has moments of hesitation, doubt and questions, may their be a sense of peace and calm; that in the stillness of God's presence they would know they way they should go and lead. Pray for a spirit of unity within the church as people respond. While there may be a time for parting for a few, pray that it would not happen in a way as to bring discourage, detriment or ruin to the ministry nor the relationships of those involved. Pray for a clarity as pastors cast vision and an understanding of mind and excitement of the heart as people respond.

May the church multiply
As we were created and instructed to do.
Because of leaders and pastors who have heard from God,
Having instructed accordingly as they have followed God's leading
And the prompting of the Holy Spirit.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I realized that both Friday and Saturday's posts mentioned the concept of hearts, being prepared to receive... of being a place of good soil. It reminded me a prayer that Pastor prayed a number of weeks ago now. He prayed that as the message went forth, that it would be milk to those not ready to handle the meat of the Word and equally so, that it would be meat and substance to those that would be left wanting by milk alone.

Every educational process has stages of learning, development and understanding. So too, is the Word of God... as evidenced by the encouragement that we should study it to show ourselves approved. The mystery of preaching is the ability for God uses it as an opportunity to reach every difference among humanity, cutting across every cultural and social demographic and dynamic to one's spiritual state in light of eternity.

This is the power of the Cross and the message of Jesus Christ.

Because at both the beginning and the end of every day, the ground is level at Calvary. Nobody is better or worse, richer or poorer, broken or whole, sick or healthy. We create and analyze these differences and distinctions, but God sees relationship. The existence of it. The opportunity for it. Those under the covering of Christ's grace. And those yet to take advantage.

But on this day of worship, we come together. To be the church. To become a better church. To grow in grace and knowledge and strength, both in faith and in number of God's love.

Pray this #effectiveSunday, that indeed, today would be a day of growth, not only in number as important as that is, but is also in faith. Pray that the bounds of community would be strengthened, as relationships between both humanity and God are built; whether with the first brick or the ten thousandth. May there be a fresh outpouring of God's grace over our lives and may we extend what we have received to those around us, who are facing battles and challenges of which we are not yet aware. Pray that God's Word would indeed be well-received, to accomplish a good work; for we stand on the promise that His Word does not return void. It will do what it was sent to do for all who hear it.

For as God works in our lives
Are we transformed into a great position
Of both His love and His grace.
To impact our world.
Both abroad and locally.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I caught part of a sermon this morning on the story of Joseph, as preached by Pastor James MacDonald. He was talking about how Joseph described his time on earth. His days were few (130 years) and evil. That's how Joseph summed up his life. To which James responds to Joseph (and to all of us, for that matter) with the following advice.

Change your thinking! Or regret it later.

Doesn't it sound easy? 

And I know life is complex and so are the issues that weigh upon us. While I don't want to discount or dismiss legitimate struggles and difficulties, at the same time, I think we easily acknowledge our hindrance and give it way more power and influence that perhaps it deserves without every trying to change... without ever deciding first, that we will do whatever is possible to diminish or overcome that issue.

There's so much potential that is both dismissed and ignored because we buy the excuse, whether real or perceived, without having put forth much effort, be it our own or with the help of the Holy Spirit. Even now, somebody is reading this, thinking that I don't understand. And you are right. I don't understand. I don't understand why I even have difficulty simply making the decision to change my thinking. And tons more people of deeper reasons and realities than I do are having cause with this advice.

But as such great wisdom has so often been shared; whether you think you can or you think you can't, you're right.

People overcome problems and issues every single minute of every single day. Some are so incredible that every person who hears stands in awe and amazement. Others, you might consider a problem so minuscule as to be child's play. And yet to that person, a win is a win. Victory is sweet, no matter how grand.

But it will never be tasted if one never steps on to field to consider the possibility to seize it.
It will never be seized if one doesn't play determined to reach out and grasp it with both hands.

Handicaps should be viewed as special circumstance which comes in handy rather than a hindrance by which the possibilities of one's life is capped. What will be the focus of your thought-life?

On this #deaconThursday, pray for those in church leadership struggling to breakthrough because of thought patterns and the problems and issues of life that stand in their way. Pray that God would help them break the cycle(s) in their life that wage war in the spirit, discourage the heart and trouble the mind. May God give them strength as they determine to live life with purpose, clarity and intention; with a renewed sense of passion and resolve... with no regrets. Pray God would help them to rise above, having overcome the greatest depths and developed a mature faith as a result of their perseverance.

With no excuses and no regrets,
May we see and think with God perspective.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Amazing how one phrase can be spoken from a position of authority, self-criticism and conviction.

What were you thinking?

We hope and pray that we are teaching and instilling good values and principles in our kids. Then something happens.
We hope and pray that we are hearing the voice of God and the moving of the Spirit... but then.
Then there are times you know you have missed God and you envision Him sitting on the throne, as if shaking His head.

To the kid... what were you thinking?
In frustration to ourselves... boy, it sure feels as though you did something stupid.
And conviction, that results in a heart to heart conversation with God.

Somewhere between childhood and adulthood and over the course of the journey of our faith, we seemingly lose our resilience to recover when you would think that the muscle would be in good shape to continually press in and press on. It seems that with bigger problems, obstacles and mistakes that we hang on to them longer, allow them to bother us deeper and give them greater power to rob more of our joy than they should.

But whatever is that we face and now, must overcome, it's imperative to recall and remember that God is still in control. Wherever we find ourselves while it is called today, God is with us. Is the conversation difficult? Yes. The consequence uncomfortable? Yes. The correction worthwhile? Yes.

Even in our lives though, I think all too often we are harder on ourselves than even God is with us at times. Does God deal just and harsh? Yes. But also He works everything for His good and does not waste any of our experiences. Which means that at some point, God is ready to be glorified through the problem and the pain But He can't do that, if we are still kicking ourselves trying to figure out what we were thinking regarding whatever circumstance has seemingly stopped us cold in our tracks.

God is ready to move. Again. In the lives of those who will allow Him to do so. As much as you wouldn't want your kid to wallow in self-pity and defeat, neither is that what God desires to happen in our lives and faith.

So, let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday that God would help those struggling to overcome the problems, obstacles and mistakes that currently weigh them done. May God bring healing to those who need to put the past where it belongs. Pray that God would grant wisdom to those in the midst of it all and are seeking and searching for a solution. Pray that depression and discouragement would be far from them and that they would focus on what and how God would seek to use what was meant to destroy us to instead, bring glory and honor to His name.

For whatever we were thinking
That led to problems
God is thinking about amazing solutions
And the testimonies that will result.
For His glory alone.

- PNC

Well, our church has been excited... for a number of reasons, the latest among them is that three young men just completed their ordination/credentials process to become pastors within our fellowship of churches. This is pretty cool stuff.

However, the funny part was what happened during in the interview stage of the process. Two of them were offered jobs during their meeting! Of course, our senior pastor thought this was pretty comical as they are already serving on the church staff. His response, with a smile of course, was, "no... you're not stealing my people".

But it got me thinking about the priority and importance of approaching your work, whatever it is that you do, with excellence. And I'm the last guy to be discussing this. I'm more frequently reminded of how much I still struggle in this area of life than I care to admit. Was that an admission in and of itself? Where's my backspace key?

So, yes... whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your heart, soul and strength as unto the Lord. And what work is closer to the heart of God than ministry itself? Naturally, such an approach you would assume to be a given, let alone an expectation... that pastors would handle their ministry roles and responsibilities with excellence.

But apparently it's not a given. You would think with the shortage of pastors and people in ministry that currently exists, that job offers would be a common occurrence as people complete the ministry credential process, but it seems that is not the case. So, clearly, in the lives of two separate people, there's something about life, attitude, aptitude and passion for ministry that stood out and making them incredibly desirable for use and impact within another church and community.

What if this was the case for every associate pastor? And every other pastoral title for that matter. What if it was true for your life... better yet, my life?

Well, on that note... now, that I'm taking personal inventory; let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday that pastors, especially those starting out would retain the excitement about the prospect of ministry; of what God would have them do and where they would go. Pray that God would grant them wisdom and discernment and guide their every step. May God guard both their hearts and their homes from the traps and misgivings that would detour, derail and destroy their lives and ministries.  Pray they would approach both their life and their work with excellence; not that they would live perfect, but in accordance with God's will and in ways and means that bring glory to Him.

A legacy of great leadership
For the kingdom of God
And the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

So, I'm pondering and thinking and drawing somewhat of a blank before getting ready for church this morning. And every once in a while, social media kicks up an interesting perspective. So here it is...

We are only anointed for our assignment. Narrow your focus to your assignment." - Kris Valloton.

How's that for a great word for an #effectiveSunday?

But seriously, there's research now that suggests that multi-tasking is more of a hindrance than a help to getting lots of things done. However, focus and intensity changes things.

The time involved in switching gears is lost.
The mental energy that is expended is lost.

Whether the kids are doing homework or you and your spouse are working on some financial goals or simply meeting a deadline for a project at work... every thing that jumps in and requires time, resources and funds takes away from what should be the priority and the focus of what needs to be done. And that you should be doing.

Ministry is no exception. There's always multiple things going on within the church at any one time. But that's where the people who handle them need to be intentional on what it is they are called and anointed to do. For if you pull them away from their assignment, what should get done, won't and what they do instead, won't be done as well as it could be done.

So, on this #effectiveSunday, pray that God would help people narrow their focus to what God has assigned and anointed them to do. Pray for clarity of purpose. May God grant to them a laser-like vision of possibility. Pray for those who have lost their dream and the energy to pursue it. Pray that God would revive and renew people and their purpose. May much be accomplished, as even well-intended distractions are set aside to fulfill the calling God has placed upon us.

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

- PNC

My wife and I attended a couples night gathering at church last night, and what a great time of fellowship. We had a great time having some fun and meeting new people. It was truly an enjoyable time and experience. We got in the car to head home and discussed the evening... a seemingly fitting thing that most couples would do as well. At one point, she observed, "It wasn't clique-ish at all!"

Yet, when a gathering does have that sense and feel, it can frustrate and even destroy the sense of community.

Not every group is for every person. Not every interest, not every club is meant and designed to be an open, all-access pass. I get that boundaries is a sensitive topic these days, but they have their place and time and they serve an incredibly important purpose. I could give examples, but I think you're wise enough to understand how life and reality works; plus that's not really the direction I want to go with this perspective.

Having said that, if there is a place where people shouldn't feel like outsiders, for any reason, it's the church. Yet sadly, many people do. Some for personality reasons, others for much deeper issues and struggles. We all have our battles and conflicts, both before coming to Christ and that He is working out within us after salvation. So yes, life and relationships are complex.

While I think the church has come along way in creating a welcoming environment whereby someone can enter and feel as though they are surrounded by friends, there's still an ease with which cliques can occur and come into existence; sometimes unknowingly and unintentionally as well. Yet for the person who catches and recognizes it when they see it, the people who gather for church are more like acquaintances than friends.

You know people and you about them, but you don't truly "know" them. The depth of relationship is lacking. And that lack of quality relationships with believers eventually affects one's relationship with God. Or at least has the potential to do so. You find yourself knowing God and knowing about Him, but no longer truly "knowing" and learning about Him.

This is a troubling place to be, both in life and in faith.

On that note, pray this #communitySaturday, that regardless of what happens in community and society at large, that the church would not be known for its' cliques. Pray for a strengthening of the relationships and friendships that exist and pray for opportunity for new ones to be forged. May there be an understanding as interaction occurs, that the ground is level at Calvary. Pray the church would continue to be intention as their influence and ministry grows within the communities and region that they serve. Pray also that the power of Scripture and the work of the Holy Spirit would not be hindered as working agents to bring people closer to God. While Christianity has it's complexities, reflecting the character of Christ is fairly simple. It just not always easy.

May God use us for His glory.
Whomever and wherever people may be
Who need an encounter with Christ
Through those who follow Him.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

First things first. To those whose families have served in the defense of this great country, our heart felt thanks and gratitude to you and yours, in honor of those who gave their lives for our freedom.

As in government, so to in ministry, are times when the people and the leadership disagree. Even though the pursuit of the end result is understandable and agreeable, the methodology to get there often creates hang-ups for people in terms of joining the mission.

This was the sentiment shared during service yesterday, which by the way, turned out to be quite incredible. Yet as Pastor relayed stories of vision from 20+ years ago, included as a part of the tale, where the moments of people stepping up to inform him, that they were in fact, disengaging. Which, you'll remember, is exactly what we prayed would not happen, as vision gets recast.

I pray that doesn't happen this time around. It's hard to be honest, that it couldn't... for indeed, sadly, it just might. But this is what God does, especially one who moves. He moves people as well. They come for a season. They go for a season. Occasionally, they return... for another season. Or two.

But the conversation that is involved in such circumstances are difficult. Sometimes troubling. Creating the possibility of second-guessing. A test of the will. A check of the confidence. A questioning of purpose. A moment of doubt. A revisit to the plan and to prayer.

This is why we pray for pastors; to be in tune and in step with the will of God... for Scripture is filled with stories when God answers with detailed specifics regarding a matter, and man ignored or modified them.

On that note, I'd be remiss, if while calling you to prayer, I didn't ask that you include the families who have lost loved ones and friends to the service of this nation. May God strengthen and comfort them as they grief and uphold them as this people honor their memory. Pray too for pastors, struggling with those who may not be on board with a change in the vision. May they know how to handle the conversation and may they trust that God will bring about the people and resources necessary during times of change and transition. Pray for their confidence and resolve to what God has called them to remain strong, despite criticism and disagreements. Pray for wisdom as they move forward, even when the picture and path is neither crystal clear nor brightly lit.

In service to our God
In service to our community.
In honor of those who came before
And advancing for those who come behind.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I'm excited for church today. It's always interesting when a church begins something new or charts a different course. Planning, strategy, process and understanding all come in to play. A knowledge of who you are, where you've been and where you want to go; and more importantly, where God would have you to go.

This is vision-casting.

And it's critical.

A church fails without a clear purpose.
A church fails when it loses it's purpose.
A church fails when the people disengage from the purpose
A church fails when leadership improperly presents the purpose.

If we have learned anything as society moves forward through 2018, from the transition that culture has made in recent decades, is that for as much as they church has gained through great vision, they have lost their impact from a lack of great vision. So while it's an exciting time for the church, the current state of our culture tells us that it's an incredibly critical time for the church.

Time moves too fast for us to be inefficient.
People are too valuable for us to be ineffective.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray for the church; that we would not only have a clear purpose and great vision, but that it would be presented in such a way to increase engagement, rather than disengagement. Pray for a spirit of unity within the body of Christ as we take intentional steps forward to what God has called. Pray for the church that are in trouble; suffering from a loss of vision and engagement. Pray that their hearts would be ignited and that their minds would be able to dream again. Pray for wisdom and discernment amidst the pastors and church leadership; that they would be hear and respond to the voice of God directing them in the ways in which they should lead their congregation and best impact their community and the world at-large.

Effective to greater degrees.
Efficient at increased levels.
Grateful for the history.
Honored to be writing the future.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I couldn't help put wonder... just how far over one's head do pastors get. Ministry. Family. Professionally. Financially.

There's a scene in the TV show, The West Wing, where the press secretary is asked regarding a situation, if she (and the administration) if the water was over their head. She replied, no... it's right at our head.

So, what prompted this train of thought? Well, another caller into the Dave Ramsey show.

This one will leave you scratching your head.

The wife calls... roughly 20 grand under water on their car.  Owes $48k, it's worth 18-20k.  Ouch.
But there's good news... they make 150k a year.
Then the rest of the story. 287 grand in consumer debt, not including the mortgage. The husbands truck, a motorcycle and credit cards.

I was kinda bummed to be listening to the show rather than watching it on YouTube, as I imagine the look on Dave's face expressed the internal equivalent of falling out of his chair!

I don't like to think of pastors finding themselves in near impossible situations; holes really, from which they are figuring a way to climb out. But then I consider my own life. Situations that I knew better than to place myself in. Circumstances that I knew were detrimental to my health, whether physically, mentally, financially or spiritually. We've all done it. Even Dave jokes about having done stupid with zeros attached.

Safeguards. Accountability. Common sense. Prayer. Healthy relationships. Proper understanding and perspective. A lack of any or all of the aforementioned leaves the door open for decisions to be made and compromises to occur that set us on a path that does not lead to good outcomes.

And by the time we wake up... yeah, the water is at our head and dangerously close to going over.

This is not a good place to be. Whether in ministry or the marketplace. Single or married. 15 grand, 150 grand or 150 million in annual income. Firm foundations are found at every height. Therefore a loss from that footing spells trouble. Every. Single. Time.

On this #associatePastorTuesday, pray for those are who trouble. Whether the water is still rising or near going over, pray that God would come quickly to their aid and grant them a moment of clarity. For those who have already had that moment, pray that God would give them wisdom to know how to proceed and the strength to begin taking the necessary steps back to safety. Pray for protection over their families and ministries. May God lead them and show the way back to the path that they have stepped off.

For the testimony is great because of the test.
And the power of the ministry is a result of the mess.
For the glory of God alone.

- PNC

I trust you had an awesome experience this morning during your church service, whether in person or online. We started a new series this morning, on the movement of God. And what a powerful message as well as a time of worship.

Though, as typical my mind was thinking while I was worshiping. While singing the song I Just Wanna Be Where You Are, I recalled the story of the prodigal. While it's a powerful story of God's grace and longing for relationship to be restored with humanity that has gone a far off into the distance, I found myself asking...

What if the son never leaves?

What happens if he doesn't walk away. He stays close to his father, under his leadership, helping to accomplish the goals and dreams of the family. What if he stays and continues to work alongside his brother?

What if, instead of walking away to pursue and live his own life, he steps out and goes into the world to do even greater things than his father had done... for what father doesn't want their child to go above and beyond whatever it is that they have achieved?

It's a very unhealthy relationship that a father wouldn't want his child to accomplish and experience less than he had achieved. God has great and greater things in store for us!

Having said that, it's hard to be effective for the kingdom of God if we are not where God is. As pastor stated this morning... if only we could come to grips with the fact that God is always moving. Thus the work is never done and every time we do not follow in the direction He is going, our ability to be effective and efficient is hindered and both the church as an institution and the people of God as a community fall behind.

On this #effectiveSunday, let's pray for an increased sensitivity to the still, small whisper of God and the gentle prompting of the Holy Spirit. Pray that we not find ourselves in such a state that we miss the voice and prompting to the degree that drastic measures and circumstances are in order to bring us to our senses, such as the prodigal experienced. Pray God would accomplish the miraculous in the lives of those who desire a greater spiritual acuity to the things of God. May the hardness and harshness of the world and the church for that matter, not take a toll on our hearts, minds and spirits that we dismiss God's moving in our lives and on our behalf. May the church be greater today than it was yesterday, because we recognized God's moving and followed accordingly.

To be where He is
Both in this life
And in the life to come.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I trust you've had a wonderful Mother's Day.

I was a little thrown off in writing yesterday's post, that between that and the holiday, my direction for today was well... nowhere to be found. So I trust that you've had a great day and made the most of it.

Which leads us to this matter of hindrances.

There's all sorts of reasons for a lack or shortage of effectiveness and efficiency in ministry. Sometimes it's a matter of discipline. Other times it's a matter of resources. Perhaps fear. The list, if not endless, will certainly take more time to write than it will for you to read.

But as I reflected on the timing of this church's tragic loss of their pastor and today's celebration of motherhood, the conflict and tension between effectiveness and ineffectiveness is strong.

Indeed, losses sustained that are beyond our control play a huge role. Especially when that loss is through people parting from this life or simply parting ways. On this mother's day, strained relationships, likewise contribute greatly in the health, accomplishment and success that one enjoys.  Bad decisions and poor choices haunt us all, laced with words we'd rather not have said, sentiments we'd rather have not shared and attitudes and actions that we'd been better off to not display.

We're desirous for people to be true to themselves while asking them to conform anytime and everytime there is an offense, whether real or perceived. Does this not lay the groundwork for greater hypocrisy? A hindrance that is perhaps close to the top of that list we didn't delve into at great length. How can the church and it's ministry be effective if we allow the hindrances in our lives to affect our response to God's working in our lives and the Holy Spirits' drawing us into greater things for the advancement of the kingdom of God?

I'm listening to the Benjamin Gate softly as I write this and the song Hands just played.

On this Mother's Day of an #effectiveSunday, will you make these words your prayer?

Jesus I feel you near me   *  Your hands giving life to my body
Your spirit healing me  *  Holding my heart in sweet security
God I need your grace  *  Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  *  Let your grace shine through me
Jesus You fill the space in me  *  Sealing these dreams in shapes of purity  *  Freeing my heart to deep eternity
God I need your grace  * Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  * Let your grace shine through me
God I seek your face  *  Let your spirit rescue me
God I need your love  *  Let your grace shine through me

Let it be so; unhindered.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard a really cool phrase this morning... and thought, what a great concept for #seniorPastorMonday. Then I lost it. However, in the past two days, I've heard a story, or a portion of a story from two different pastor couples regarding personal decisions in their lives that will or would affect their ability to do ministry.

A funny thing about both instances; they involved a serious financial component to the conversation.

A three-way juggling act, between being obedient to the hand of God and the prompting of the Holy Spirit, trusting what has been placed in the heart, and making sense of it in the mind.

For following the mind, can cause you to miss the decision God wants and calls you to make.
Just as easily, and often for that matter, the heart misleads. The emotional "tug" and the feelings of the moment fade, to varying degrees of course; but even the strongest of instincts are occasionally wrong.

Finally, there's the downright, "yeah, I can't do that". Whether we don't feel ready, willing or able isn't really the question. It's a question of trust. Is wisdom involved? Yes. Prayer, absolutely. But wisdom only goes so far, for our finite minds are just that.

The super-natural realm of a sovereign, spiritual, Supreme Being can't be understood, let alone explained through physical eyes and earthly words. God is God and we are not. So it has always been. So too, will it forever be.

But that doesn't make the prayer in the process any less important. It doesn't negate the difficulty of the decision-making process and revolving conversations. It does not ignore the pursuit of Godly counsel from the outset to the outcome.

Nobody ever said ministry was easy. Nobody ever said the personal matters of life and faith of those who lead got easier while in ministry either.

So, on this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those pastors in ministry struggling with any and all variety of decisions. Pray for marriages that are having difficulty navigating the conversation and reconciling the prompting of the Holy Spirit and the hand of God compared to finite wisdom and understanding. Pray God would grant discernment to know what is truly a step of faith and an act of obedience compared to what is a hope and emotion that is not a part of God's plan. May He work the miraculous as only He can do and may He intervene and keep from harm, those who are on the verge of missing God's plan and making a disastrous and damaging mistake.

To know the will of God
And hear His still small voice.
Even if it is one step at a time,
One decision at a time.
Living the life He has called us to live.
For His glory alone.

- PNC