If you've never listened to the nationally syndicated radio show, Red Eye Radio, that plays the post-midnight/pre-sunrise hour slot, you are missing out. They have some pretty incredible discussions on both serious issues of the day as well as interesting topics and comedic conversations. I happened to catch the final stretch yesterday morning though, and they talking about human interaction and attitude, among other things.

And while it is overly obvious, the point that was made that for some reason resonated with me, I couldn't help but reflect. Perhaps recent months have brought some introspection to the forefront of my life as though turning a page, or I really am getting older. Either way, the adage seems to be true... be the change you want to see in the world.

That said, back to the comment I heard on Red Eye Radio...

When one person is happy, others will be happy.

Or as comedian Jeff Allen always reminds his audience, happy wife, happy, life.

Haven't you noticed the same in your life?

Frustrating people can be frustrating to be around.
Confused people leave you feeling as though you don't know how to help.
Stressed people make us even more concerned about their well-being than normal.
Aggravated people cause irritation that quickly escalates.

Misery loves company. Conversely; however, happiness is contagious. Try it. Smile when you don't feel like it.  Offer a kind word when one isn't warranted.

Act as if ye have faith, and you will have it. In other words, fake it til you make it.

Seriously, though... all these emotions and situations exist and live within church leadership, both on Sunday and every other day. So... if church leadership isn't happy. Well, you can probably guess the impact that leaves, especially over an extended period of time. And my apologies if you've witnessed this first hand. It does happen. And that's why we're praying.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that those within church operations would indeed by an environment of joy and happiness. Pray for a spirit of unity and cohesion as they work together in ministry. Though disagreements, stress and frustration are inevitable, may their be a sense of love and compassion to work through such moments together. May they be overwhelmed with a spirit of encouragement and synergy; a building up of each other in the most holy faith. Pray that stress and struggle would not derail nor burn out their efforts, but that there resolve would remain steadfast.

For the joy of the Lord is our strength
And laughter does good like medicine.
May the love that permeates our hearts
Flow from our lives, impacting those around us
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I'm not sure who was speaking on the broadcast when I changed radio stations yesterday afternoon, but I caught part of this man's testimony as he talked about the health struggle he endured early in life and into his grade school years.

I quickly found myself relating to his story, as we dealt with kids who gave him static regarding his physical condition and how one copes with that. Cyber-bullying is a serious problem, perhaps even worse than in real-life, although, real-life bullying left a lot to be desired as well.

I had to laugh, as he talked about "having to go to school".

Just because you ignore "them", doesn't mean you don't hear what they say and that psychologically the words don't still make landfall somewhere in the recesses of your inner-man.

You can't go somewhere else to get away... it's not like there's another lunchroom.

Defending yourself doesn't work; somehow your replies are simply more ammo for them to use as return fire against you.

Teachers expect you in class, parents tell you that you have to go and the system only allows you to miss so many days. It's like lambs being thrown to the wolves.

Thus, whether face to face or through Facebook & friends, our spirits not only wound quite easily at times, but very early in our lives as well. Whether for situations beyond our control like a physical condition or kids being mere kids, such wounds do not quickly heal.

And isn't interesting...any medical condition, we go to a doctor. Parenting and marriage, a counselor. Finances? Dave Ramsey. For all our broken and troubled arenas of life, we seek and find a professional or a guru to bring healing and correction to the problem. Yet with a wounded spirit and damaged soul, we skip, bypass or overlook altogether, the Creator in whose image we were created.

For the child or the adult, the sinner or the saint, the pastor or the parishioner, spiritual wounds require spiritual healing. Why isn't our first turn to God? Even when the decision is obvious, we wait and prolong seeking His face and casting our cares.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would be the first that is to be trusted with our wounded spirits and damaged souls. Pray for those still struggling with the scars of their past. May God do a work in each of us; for daily, we in the most unexpected moments, we realize we are still very broken and scared people. Pray the mercies of God that are new every morning fill our desperate need for forgiveness and the opportunity to be and live better today than we did yesterday, this morning better than last night.

For God doesn't waste our experience
But uses it all for His glory
As a testament to His grace
And the redemptive work of Christ
Through the power of the Cross
And the help of the Holy Spirit.

- PNC

Well, this was kinda weird this morning to happen like this, but I promise, I'm not making it up. I woke up this morning, laid in bed and asked what God would have for today's post and before I could even finish the thought, "I need something...", the Holy Spirit dropped the word.

FRESH.

It seems of late, that people efforts and life purposes have been long endeavors. I know this happens all the time, but it feels like this has been the year of longevity. A pastor has led the same church for 25 years, national names of recognition are hitting their 24 and 25 year marks in their field. A friend has had the same job for 19 years.

And this project is half-way through it's 3rd year... of having a daily prayer and perspective to pray over our pastors and church leadership. And I thank you for joining with me.

Yet, when life and it's responsibilities lose their appeal, when relationships lack purpose, when clarity diminishes and obviously, when things go wrong or get just plain hard, it is a downright struggle... a frustrating struggle to find the wherewithal to run through our difficulty with joy.

Interesting, that I type this as my dear friends are preparing to deliver their 4-month old baby girl into the hands of doctors who will perform open-heart surgery today. And they are emotionally-wrecked, yet resolute in their faith.

Whatever you face, God has you. He has "this".
Whatever your circumstance, God remains, the great "I AM".

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday for those who need a freshening, and a refreshing, in the life and ministry. May God work their miraculous for them, as He will for my friends. For healing, for clarity and direction, for a revitalization of life and purpose; may the Holy Spirit breathe afresh into situations and circumstances that overwhelm hearts and cloud the minds. Pray today would be an undeniable sense of renewal.

For indeed, His mercies are NEW.
Every. Morning.
And who would want it any other way.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It's always a pretty incredible thing, to hear the powerful sermons that come to the forefront around the Christmas season, for truly the thought of God coming to Earth to redeem a broken humanity is hard to fathom.

And if you'll permit me to include among them, my pastor is on a series discussing the Adventurers, a play on words of the characters of the Advent season and he said something yesterday that really provoked some consideration.

In discussing Mary's response to the promise of Jesus' birth and the account of her visit to Elizabeth, this observation was made. And although we see it in Luke 1:38, it exists numerous times elsewhere through Scripture.

What is truly amazing about the sovereignty of God and the free will of humanity is that God will not act for us or through us without our consent.

Consider how often we see the response.

I am your servant.
May it be as you have said.

It's a nod to the power of prayer! A direct relationship between our petitions and God's Hand, which we further see through both era's that are divided by Christ' life.

Thus if we limit our prayers to God, it stands to reason God's response will in turn, be limited?

Yet if we are open and willing to see it through to completion....

How often do we look at circumstances and decide "no more". God's plans take time and any time we abort the mission early, it usually spells bad news in comparison to what would have been, had God been allowed to work in His time.

So, on this #seniorPastorMonday, may I encourage you as our congregation was encouraged? Let's pray today, that Pastors will not abort the mission. May they see through to completion, the plans and purposes that God is working in their lives and ministries. Pray for those, where there needs to be a realignment as God's servant and a willingness for God's word to come alive and manifest itself in our midst. Pray for Pastors who are tired of the journey, may they be strengthened. As they refresh others, may they be refreshed themselves. May the power of prayer be rekindled and fanned, as unleash themselves to God's sovereignty.

May the miraculous occur
As promises are fulfilled
For those who remain in Him.
Unrelenting, unwavering.
Faithful to the cause of Christ,
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Isn't kinda funny how people and relationships work?

It's so easy how Christians can be so disheartened when they look at the world and take issue with what they are doing and know that life would be so much different and improved with a genuine relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Conversely, the world looks at the church, and gets frustrated by what Christians AREN'T doing and think, man if they only did what they preach (or what they understand to be Biblical or consistent with Christ's teachings).

Yet, in the end, effectiveness truly begins by knowing what we are to do and sticking to doing it and doing it well. Yes, we must spur others on to do the same, but it's of little meaning and effect if we aren't doing all that we can do and more, starting with ourselves.

And I'll be the first to say that is true in my own life.

Thus, on this #effectiveSunday, pray that we would be the church God has called us to be. Pray that we would walk in His ways and live according to His truths. May we engage the world, rather than criticize. May we speak truth in the face of falsehood. May we witness the grace of God in a world full of judgemental words. Pray today would be a day of reconciliation; of people both within and outside the four-walls of the church coming into greater relationship with God through the cross of Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.

To the betterment of humanity
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.
Let it be so, even this very day.

- PNC

For the past couple of days, I haven't been able to consider... what if God had a zero tolerance policy? Ultimately, we know He does, because we will all stand in judgement before Him one day.

In the meantime, His grace is abundant; His mercies are new every morning.

This isn't a license to continually make wrong choices, bad decisions and live in conduct contradictory to the Word of God. Sadly that needs to be pointed out, as much, both within the Christian community, as well as society-at-large, use God's grace and mercy to continue in their wrong-doing.

But what if, based solely on the suggestion of wrong-doing, God called deal-breaker, game-over.

No call to repentance.
No opportunity for confession.
No extension of grace.
No gift of forgiveness.
No invitation towards redemption.

As I look at community, whether on-line, or in-person, we seem to be moving ever-farther away from being people of grace, forgiveness and second chances. And please, don't you dare read what I'm not writing. Accountability, transparency, consequences... there are necessary. But if they are not balanced with the knowledge and understanding of the truth, then we are both living and judging lies. Which is hard to do for a people that denies the Truth of God, while claiming some moral grounding that is not grounded in Scripture.

We seem to be running in the dark, rather than walking in the Light.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that would we be seekers of truth. May we be people who would extend grace and forgiveness and seek confession and repentance. Pray that we would be sensitive to the work of God in our own lives as live as examples of what God desires to accomplish to those not living in the redemptive work of the cross of Jesus Christ. May the Holy Spirit help us to live with an eternal perspective and to be voice of truth in a world of darkness and even darker lies.

For we were once lost,
But have now been found.
Called out of darkness
Into His glorious light.
Having confessed our sins
And redeemed by the blood of Christ.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It seems like it should be pretty obvious, but society continues to reveal how much it needs to be stated...

It's difficult to increase in faith with increasing in sin, immorality and depravity at the same time.

I say it should be obvious, because as I went through yesterday, nothing really stood out as a topic for today's post. When I went to bed last night, I thought, perhaps, God will give me something new altogether when I awake... which He did. But really, God... that's news?

And yet it seems many both inside and outside Christianity attempt to walk both paths, as if the lanes don't eventually part and go in completely opposite directions.

Of course within Christianity, this is a more glaring reflection of our broken humanity, and yet if we would walk in ever-increasing faith, perhaps we would be a greater, more impactful reflection of Christ.

People think Christianity is complex and yet, it is amazingly simple.

And while the simpleness would lead one to believe it should be easy, it is, in fact, incredibly difficult. Which is perhaps, we the emphasis of taking up our cross and following Christ is placed on doing so Daily.

As such, the conversation between the believer and the non-believer can turn in to quite the on-going process; which is perhaps why so many testimonies exist of people who heard the Gospel for years before finally coming to faith in Christ.

So, on this #missionsFriday, let's pray for missionaries. Pray for renewed strength, even as they daily take up their cross and continue in their personal journey of faith in Christ. The road is hard and sometimes lonely, may the presence of God be their constant companion. May their lives and ministries be effective in reflecting Christ and may their efforts be effective in reaching and revealing the brokenness of humanity and our need for a Savior. Pray for renewed strength, especially during the season of increased spiritual reflection, and life's meaning and purpose.

May all live a life
That desires above all else
A closer walk with God.
For His glory and purpose
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

It is both good and important to keep our eyes on the horizon; to have the goal in mind and the vision of how to get there. Indeed, I'd say it is in our nature to do so, for even Proverbs reminds us, that man makes plans in His heart, but the Lord directs His steps.

As such, then, there is a reason for God's focus illuminating our steps and lighting our path, rather than the whole of what lies before us. God is concerned with journey; with the process. Everything has a divine purpose.

There is no waste with God, but plenty of recycling with the events and circumstances of our lives.

The power of His lighting our current position and what lies immediately before and around us, is that we would know specifically where to next as we follow His leading and prompting.

Many years ago, Petra released the song Minefield, and it talks about how life is just that, that the enemy has laid traps and "mines" literally throughout our lives, in order that he may ruin, destroy and kill. Yet if we are so focused on the end result that we miss where we are today and what God has for us now, how we will know where the mines are?

Scripture talks many times of stumbling blocks; how to avoid them yourselves, as well as how not to be one for those around you. Yet like the mines, if the path that awaits your next step is not lit, how will you what to avoid? How will you know what not to become. How will you be aware of that which you could caution others in their lives? Quite simply... you can't.

So, on this #deaconThursday, pray for our church leaders. May God continue to be the light and lamp in their lives; that they would miss the mines that would utterly change their life. Pray that would not stumble, nor cause others to do the same. Pray they would not be frustrated with not being able to see farther ahead or having better understanding of their circumstances. May they continue to trust God for where they are today, how God is working today and that He still holds tomorrow... knowing full well in advance, of all that we have need of to live in Godliness.

A light to our feet
A lamp to our path,
That our steps would be directed of God.
In spite of the plans we make in our hearts.
May we ever stay close to hear His voice
And follow His leading and prompting.
For His glory.

- PNC

If we have learned anything in recent weeks, it stands in the power of confession and also, the importance of confession. The flip side of that power, also happens to reveal people's motivation for concealment.

Is it not amazing then, that God, who has reason to withhold grace and forgiveness from humanity is the first in line to offer the same to the one who is willing to humble themselves.

Yet, whether one has committed a wrong or been the recipient of wrong, pride stands before both, resolved to keep both parties silent.

However, both sides stand before God as He desires to work in both their hearts and their minds. And that process does not happen as long as we remain focused on what the other party has done or said or corrected.

Meanwhile, there is freedom in the truth, but it accomplishes nothing, let alone any good, if it is never spoken or communicated. And while there is a timing element to effective communication, communication that is significantly hindered or delayed simply raises questions of speculation and doubt with regards to accuracy and credibility. This is rarely helpful to the process and the hopes of any sort of resolution.

The relationship with pastors?

Pride, confession, transparency, credibility... these are the struggles and traits that are both desired and problematic for our pastors and church leadership as much as it is for our elected officials and other political leaders. If society demands such of it's government, how much more should we expect it from those who lead us into the Kingdom of God?

Let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that God would give us clean hands and pure hearts. Pray that pastor would lead and walk with integrity and purity. Pray for a continued spirit of humility; that pride would not derail or utterly destroy the work and ministry to which they have been called. May they continue to lead by example, for the generations that follow in their footsteps; that they would learn from both success and failure. May they do more right, than wrong; good than harm; help more than hurt, and build more than destroy.

For Christ came that we may have life
And life more abundantly.
Not as the world gives,
But transformed to those who rely on the power of God.
In all things, may what the enemy meant to destroy us,
Be used for God's divine purposes.

- PNC

While listening to one of the regular morning radio shows I frequent, the host interviewed a doctor and they were discussing the drug problem facing, not only the world, but specifically the States. The doctor highlighted the problem in a very concise moment of political commentary, in which he stated just how often those writing the laws don't always consider the unintended consequences that will affect organic stakeholders.

In other words, leadership misses the conversation of what could go wrong, that would directly impact those closest to the problem they are attempting to solve. And how do they miss the conversation? In part, by not engaging with those who are on the front lines dealing with the problem. They may know about the problem, but are not "in the know" regarding the impact that certain decisions will make, whether they be immediate or delayed outcomes.

And I thought, if it's that dangerous of a scenario when political leadership gets it wrong, how much more when spiritual leadership handles problems in similar fashion? And it can happen at all stages of leadership. Politics also look to however is located at house number 1600, but there are people at other levels who are still making decisions without regard to those most affected by them.

So it is in the church. It easy to look to the senior pastor, but associates and others need to be aware of the dangers of leading in this manner.

Thus, on this #associatePastorTuesday, let's pray, that pastors would indeed make every effort to be informed and engaged regarding the problems they are attempting to correct. Pray for insight and understanding; even super-naturally, that they would have a keen awareness and a divine vision. May they not lose touch with those they are attempting to help and those who are on the front lines of the problems they face. Pray they would give proper consideration to the matters that come before them and give due diligence to the process. In all things, may they continue, all the more, to press in and seek the face of God, for His mind and His heart as they work to fulfill their calling.

To bring glory to His name
In spite of difficulty
And the process of working through the problems.
That God would the miraculous
In the midst of trouble and trials.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

Yesterday morning's message has kinda stuck with me, as we are already almost half way through the month that surrounds Christmas. It was an interesting message on the birth of Christ, and particularly, the gathering that occurs at the manger scene.

And while a number of points and applications were made, one understanding in particular stand out, as we once again gather at this page to pray for pastors.

Consider this for a moment...

It's entirely possibly to stand in the awe and wonder of God, while feeling as though you are of little to null value to Him. Furthermore, what happens when that sense of awe and wonder is lost? Who are we? And what are we doing here? Where do I go moving forward?

The hand of God at work in our lives is incredible and why He chooses who He does escapes our comprehension. And yet, we see throughout Scripture what happens when the love and pursuit of God disappears from our lives and what we are doing is nowhere near what He had planned and purposed for our lives. Problems of epic proportions usually ensue.

So will you pray with me, this #seniorPastorMonday? Pray that pastors would neither lose their sense of awe and wonder, nor would they lose their understanding of their value and importance to God. May God strengthen and revive the flame with them regarding their love for God and the work which He has called them. Pray the lies of the enemy and the misleadings of their emotions not detour and derail them to the point of destruction. May this season be a time of drawing ever closer to the presence and power of God at work here on Earth.

Time and again,
May He help us through
And show us the way
That leads us back to Him
As we stand in awe and wonder
Humbled in His presence,
And a part of His grand design.

- PNC

I don't know about the rest of you, but December is shaping up to be a crazy month for our family. December already is a month we have to "ramp up" for already so to add a few more "few and far between" events to the equation seems like a "what were we thinking" reality.

That said, it seems to be the hand of God at work, so we going forward confident in His leading. But December remains a crazy, busy, overwhelming and stressful month for many of you and on a much grander and more time-consuming calendar than previous Decembers in my life.

So, how do we get through?

Make sure you take some time to have fun and not over-think the anxiety-inducing list that awaits your attention.

I know it sounds overtly basic and elementary, but it's true. And a timely reminder, as I watched the kids play in the first snowfall of the season yesterday afternoon. Even had finally collected over the past couple of days to cover most of the ground that we could at least throw a few snowballs and the created snow-angels. I didn't think there was enough to keep them entertained for an hour, but there we were.

Equally so, the break-away from the schedule is important for you as well. Some days you'll feel more effective than others; some days more efficient as you work to get things done... but both will be hindered if you fail to take time to breathe, enjoy where you are and look with positive anticipation to where your journey seems to be headed. An hour may not seem like much, but it could be just enough to remind you... it will all work out. One way or another, everything will get done.

On this snowy December Sunday as we pray for it to be an #effectiveSunday, let's pray for pastors who feel as though they have no time for fun and leisure. Pray for the stress and anxiety that has already begun to take it's toll, in their lives and relationships and ministries. May God strengthen and rejuvenate them anew and afresh, by the power of the Holy Spirit. Pray for those who would come alongside and encourage them and perhaps help them find a reprieve. May they make the time to laugh and enjoy the process of the journey, rather than be consumed by the tasks that await on many lists.

For laughter does like medicine.
May we go about life and ministry
Healthy and whole,
Rather than sick and incomplete.
Fired up for His purposes
As opposed to burnt out from the labor.
Effective and efficient for the cause of Christ.

- PNC

I mentioned Mitch Albom yesterday and if you aren't familiar with him, over the years he has set-up 9 different charities throughout the metro-Detroit area that are focused on meeting the various needs of the poor, from helping with day-care to after school programs, to helping working families get housing to senior citizen and veteran services.

This past Thursday, he held his 6th annual radio-thon fundraiser, by holding a 15-hour long radio show (as his normal radio show is the 2-hr drive home slot). And it was incredible to watch community happen.

For those 15 hours, friends and celebrities, people of influence throughout the city and state and business owners, professional athletes and coaches and team owners... it was utterly flooded by people who came on board to help raise funds. Over 1.2 million dollars!

No admin costs. Nothing owed to anyone else first. 100% straight to meeting the needs.

Of course, they use the funds to help other charities in the area as well, but among the many incredible moments throughout the day was one in particular.

Mitch also has a project in Haiti, taking care of kids and the poor in that country as well. And while he joked about not knowing where they got the money or perhaps they raided his desk down there, the kids from his Haiti program called into the radiothon... to tell him they had collected $200 to help those in need in Detroit.

It was later pointed out, that while it's amazing that people who have been blessed with abundance would be compelled to share with those less fortunate and really, you wouldn't hope or expect anything less. But it seems the more one has, the easier it is to forget how difficult things are when you are without. Thus, we often witness the phenomenon of those who have little for themselves will give, and give generously for those who often have very little or even less than they.

So to hear kids in Haiti respond to a call to help kids in Detroit... well, it was a tear-jerker to say the least.

Mitch's story of how he moved from not being a generous and charitable person to this kind of investment and influence to bring others together to accomplish this good is quite moving. And while I don't know where he stands in his faith with God, I can't help but consider how often the church misses the opportunity to experience community at this level.

Reasons why we can't or don't give. Can't or don't find time. Can't or don't know where to start or how to get help. Yet it's the church that will be known by their love. And many communities don't know the church in that way.

So, on this #communitySaturday, pray that the church would arise anew, to lead in building, sharing, growing and influencing community. May we make the time and financial investment into those in need among us. Pray for opportunities as we forth, to share Christ and experience God. May the excuses end and obedience begin.

For while big contributions are far reaching
Even the smallest gifts can make great impact.
May we do so today.
For the glory of God
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I was reminded yesterday, of the phrase that has changed the life of Mitch Albom, who did not consider himself a generous person until having spent a considerable amount of time with an individual; the story of which he discusses in his book, Tuesdays With Morrie.

The principle is simply this...

"Giving is living."

Interestingly enough, unbeknownst to him, our worship pastor during this week's Wednesday night service, explained how our lives can be like one of two seas.

We can be like the Sea of Galilee or the Dead Sea.

The difference between the two, is the existence of an outlet.

The Dead Sea, does not have one. It continually receives. Water enters. But it never exits. And so the very thing that was meant to bring life and refreshing, ultimately becomes death, because it stops moving; it stops flowing. All because after it has been received, it does not continually release.

Thus, the water loses it's life-giving power and what is meant to be sustained by the water soon becomes constrained by the water.

Conversely, the Sea of Galilee does not experience the phenomenon. For it has an exit. It has a release, from which it gives what it receives. As such, life in that body of water is sustained.

So, it begs the question. If Christ is the Living Water, what is His affect on our lives? Are we giving and releasing, what has been given and received by us? Yes, there is our time, our abilities and our resources, but most importantly, there is the life of Jesus Christ.

Those who refresh others, will themselves, be refreshed.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that we would be people who would give. Pray for missionaries, that as the give and share the Gospel, that they will be strengthened and renewed. Indeed, may they be refreshed as they give their lives to the work of the Kingdom of God as Christ gave His life for us, that we may live. Pray today would be a trans-formative day as the truth of God is shared and experienced by those who are spiritually dead, they would receive Living Water. May today be a day of miracles; of life, of refreshing, of hope, meaning, clarity and purpose.

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

- PNC

John MacArthur has a series titled Walking In Wisdom, and it happens to be the current series being broadcast, that you can listen to from his website, gty.org.

But something truly profound was explained as I listened to the sermon that played yesterday, and it was John's explanation of the phrase and specifically, the difference between the Greek and Hebrew meaning.

We've talked and prayed on numerous occasions on the topic of wisdom, both possessing it and the application that follows from utilizing it. Whether for the pastor or their advisors, wisdom is crucial.

While MacArthur points out that we have all that we need in Christ, which is profound in it's own right, as we so often think that God withholds from us upon salvation, it's was nearly as eye-opening as this.

To the Greeks, walking in wisdom is an intellectual exercise. It's thought, theory, experience and mental understanding.

To the Hebrews, though... this is very cool. To walk in wisdom is to align with divine life principles.

Isn't that amazing. MacArthur further explains that Proverbs 2 could very well be the commentary for Ephesians 5:15.

Walk circumspectly.

Meanwhile, Proverbs 2 is practically a detailed blueprint on how to do just that.

Walk. Circumspectly. In Wisdom. In alignment with divine principles, for the duration of life.

So, let's pray, this #deaconThursday, that church leadership would not only possess knowledge, understanding and wisdom of the intellectual kind; but that they would daily align and re-align when and where necessary, to the divine life principles of the Word of God. Pray they would not try to live life by their own strength, insight or perspective. May they be led of the Spirit, in every arena, in every circumstance, in every conversation, decision and outcome.

Not as the world understands wisdom,
But as God has granted unto them
Through the power of Christ at work in their lives.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I heard something yesterday that was yet another reminder of a profound truth.

People, much like items and events, can be useful in the positive sense or useless in the negative sense.

Everything has a purpose, a reason for existence.

Yet when it is not fulfilling its' purpose, is it really useful?

What's worse, when moving in the opposite direction, it makes things feel as though there degrees of uselessness. Like it's possible for an on/off switch to be more than a binary state or for there to be levels of darkness.

There difference between usage, as to whether the impact is useful or useless depends on it's position in light of eternity.

Consider salvation.

It is not possible for someone to be useful to the cause of Jesus Christ while they are dead in their sin; alive albeit in an unrepentant state.

However, no matter how long one has been walking with God, it's entirely possible to find ourselves in places, positions and relationships that hinder the power of our usefulness to the work of Jesus Christ. And that is a dangerous place to find one's self.

On that note of self-reflection, that's pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that pastors would not find themselves in places and relationships that would hinder or detract from their usefulness to the ministry. Pray for an every increasing sensitivity to the moving of the Holy Spirit in their faith. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they lead; to speak into the lives within their influence and under their ministry, to spur them towards greater usefulness for the kingdom of God. May they not be distracted, detoured or derailed; God forbid we would hear anything close to "you useless servant".

Instead, may it be nothing short of "good and faithful".
Used by God
By the power of the Holy Spirit,
For the cause of Jesus Christ,
To the glory of God, our Father.

- PNC

I'm not a huge sports fan, by any stretch of the imagination. I enjoy a good game and occassionally will go to one if a group is going or will watch if visiting with friends and family who have it on. But rarely is it ever on my television set.

That said, I caught part of an interview where the conversation revolved around the struggling Detroit Lions. The team has now lost 6 games in row, I believe and I've heard the point made a number of times, of what's needed to happen for them to still be able to secure a play-off spot, which includes, among other things, certain teams losing their respective games.

So, the guy being interviewed yesterday, as they discussed the Lion's latest loss last weekend, points out that the Lions got the help they needed. Two other teams had in fact, lost their games. But, the Lions didn't help themselves by doing what they needed to do be scoring a win for the record books.

And I thought to myself, how profound.

We talk about needing help, asking for help, and actually getting help for a particular stage of life or circumstance. Then a person or a group or an event happens that does bring the help or relief that we need in that situation, but then we fail or miss out on doing our part as an individual that would have changed everything.

We don't bring our element to the equation to accomplish the desired answer or result. Of course, eventually, if this keeps happening repeatedly, like it has been going for the Lions, no matter how much help you receive nor how much you actually do your part right; you still won't get the ultimate goal you were hoping to secure.

What a shame and tragedy.

So... on this #associatePastorTuesday, let's pray; not only for pastors to get the help that they need for whatever the circumstance they need it, but that they would also do their part. Pray for strength and wisdom that they would do it well and with excellence. Pray that their would be a unity and a synergy as people come together and work together for a common goal and purpose. May not one person feel inadequate or unnecessary, for we all have a place and a purpose for which God desires to fulfill His eternal plan through our lives.

Getting help from others
Being helpful ourselves
We press on towards the price
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I was reminded once again yesterday morning, words that I so appreciate hearing from the pulpit. As pastor prays at the opening of the sermon (or a few minutes after the introduction of it), he acknowledges in the prayer, that people didn't come to hear from him, but they did come to hear a Word from God.

Indeed, daily now, we see the power of such an acknowledgement, as we continually witness people whose words are not in line with how they live the rest of their lives, particularly behind closed doors.

Hypocrisy is pretty hard to miss, although some people make it look fairly easy. It happens in politics, without even thinking. It happens in the marketplace of commerce and sadly it happens in the community of believers, both of those sitting in the pew and those standing behind the pulpit.

And as I've often stated before, to each his own, the explanation for the justified difference of why their situation is excusable, yet another's is not.

A standard is a standard and the only one that truly matters is God's, of which we all have fallen short. But that does give any one person a pass for not living according to the beliefs that they communicate.

Words have impact.
Ideas of consequences.
May we be people who choose wisely.

And let's pray to that end, on this #seniorPastorMonday. May pastors be people of the Word, who preach the Word, who live by the Word, who know the Word. Pray for those who have perhaps forgotten their place in delivering God's Word; for none of Jesus' disciples were people of position and prominence... if fact quite the opposite. Pray God would do a fresh work for those who are off course and out of alignment with what God is wanting to work in their lives and ministries. May the revelation of the truth of the matter bring them to a place of repentance and correction as the serve humbly and communicate faithfully.

That we would speak words of life
As the Word of Live lives within us
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I heard a radio interview the other day on Moody Radio, where the morning show hosts were talking with a local pastor regarding ministry and burnout. As they were discussing a "typical" week in the life of a pastor, this pastor noted that a church can't bombard the pulpit with all sorts of situations and circumstances, conversations and problems all week long, and then expect that in a matter of hours between Friday night and Sunday morning, that one will be prepared, studied and prayed up to deliver an effective message and exposition of God's Word.

Preparedness.

We've talked it about it many times.

I was reminded about it again last less than 20 hours ago, as yesterday morning I had opportunity to hang out with a home inspector for a few hours.

Parents, do you want to prepare your teen/young adult for the gravity of decisions that they will want to consider and add to the equation as they figure out what they want to do with their life, vocation and lifestyle??

To wet their appetite, browse Craigslist for a 1500-2000 dollar car and ask the owner if you can take it to the local, reputable mechanic. Pay the 50-75 bucks for their time and have them print out a report. If everything were fixed, here's the cost. If you don't think that's a wake up call, may I remember you that up until the mid-90's, certain repairs on a Ferrari involved removing the engine! On repairs that weren't engine-related, like replacing the clutch.

A for a full understanding, send your young adult on a home inspection. Either to follow the person doing the inspection or have them accompany a friend is who buying a home and listen to the conversation. It's one thing to get excited about the potential of a place. But so much more that could be problematic. It's a thorough look, that requires crawling into spaces that aren't used on a daily basis... a crucial, behind the surface perspective that begins a long-term conversation.

These are the things that hinder one's effectiveness and efficiency. A lack of knowledge and understanding of the depths of what's involved in a matter. A lack of conversation to discuss problems and solutions and the work and cost involved to move from the current state to a corrected state.

Preparedness. The surface conversation and understanding often doesn't get to the deeper and more crucial place of importance that is capable of preventing trouble and difficulty.

And on that note, let's pray.

On this #effectiveSunday, pray that pastors would indeed be prepared, even this very day; that they will have dug deep in their understanding and that in their message today, will move the church to the same crucial place of understanding. Pray for a balance in their lives and ministries, to not only properly handle the interruptions and disruptions as they arise, but to remain focused on the elements that truly matter in the fulfillment of their calling, anointing and purpose to the kingdom. Pray that God would place the right people in their circles to speak life, clarity and perspective... not to be a doomsayer or discourager, but to bring knowledge and understanding to the conversation.

Effective and efficient
Because the time and cost was paid
To move the conversation to a better level of preparedness.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

It's pretty incredible when you think about the power the Bible and the concepts and principles that it presents. And the foundational sequence that I heard explained the other day is one, I can't seem to put away. In fact, I only caught roughly half of it, but that doesn't diminish it's power.

In fact, as I look around at community and culture's frustration with Christianity, the power of this principle is undeniable.

True and perfect love moves us to pursue excellence which results in a life of integrity.

We look at people's shortage or complete lack of integrity and we wonder what went wrong. But if we take a look back, we see the missing element. A pursuit of excellence. Perfection is not a behavior to achieve, but an attitude with which we make our approach. It's not that we don't allow for mistakes and grace. But there's preparation, knowledge and understanding and contingencies to take steps to avoid and manage problems followed by learning and moving forward.

And where does an attitude of excellence come from?

Love.

Consider 1 Corinthians 13. Hopes all things, believes all things, endures all things, bears all things. It never fails! It is kind and without envy. It is patient without being puffy. It rejoices in truth.

Love does not settle, nor does it quit.

But this is how it builds.

Thus, when we are not kind, when we do envy, when we are short-fused, when we don't hope, believe and endure... when we rejoice in the iniquity rather than the truth; these things make it near impossible to pursue excellence. Which leaves room for a lifetime of second-best, compromise and some potentially ruinous decisions.

And we're certainly witnessing the fruit of that path, are we not?

So, pray this #communitySaturday, that the community would know the people of God as Christ said they would; by our love. May we lead lives that pursue excellence, not to be better or perfect than those next to us, but that God would be glorified as we give our all in like manner as He gave for us. Pray that we would be prepared to give an answer, as the world recognizes the difference in our lives, that integrity would be a marker that would set us apart... not because we know all, but because we know what the work of Jesus Christ has done in us.

May we be the difference makers the world needs
Because we daily open our hearts to the power of God
To make a difference in our lives.
For His glory alone
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC