There's a scene from The West Wing, where President Barlet is standing in the Oval Office with his wife Abbey and at the end of the conversation, she "concedes that she was wrong about the thing" and quickly proceeds to follow it up with "however..."

It is at "however" though, that the President stops her and delivers this brilliance.

"No, no however. You were wrong. Just be wrong. Just stand there in your wrongness and get used to it."

A very lovely, and humor scene of marriage that somehow never quite works out to be so endearing. Not that I'm speaking from experience or anything. (wink, wink)

We live in a world where certain things are just plain wrong. The problem is we all seem to be in varying degrees of agreement as to what attitudes, behaviors, words and deeds constitute "wrong", both on an individual and cultural basis.

The conversation of course, is getting more and more difficult as we continue to work to communicate with community with the truth and love of God. Yet religious views and political leanings often stand in the way, of hearing, receiving and understanding truth. And it doesn't help that we only seem to allow certain arenas of life to be told where are wrong and by whom. Case in point, some people are commended for pointing out to their bosses that the boss was wrong, other employees are fired for continuing to do things wrong after being told by the boss to stop doing things the wrong way.

In essence, in society's effort to move us toward being more open-minded to differing views we have moved away from being able to receive and make true and positive correction... which everyone seems to be calling, waiting and hoping will happen. Each to their own satisfaction, of course. But alas, only One person can help.

As Herman Cain states in the post I referenced the other day...

"Evil is flourishing and America has made a cultural decision to let that happen, and to reject the God who overcomes it."

So, on this #communitySaturday, would you join me again? Pray that as much as we have made a decision to allow evil, may we equally and just as quickly make a decision to turn from evil and repent of our wickedness. Pray for people's open-mindedness to be sensitive to the moving of the Holy Spirit, and that they would allow the truth and power of God to speak into their lives, hearts and minds. May the church be a source of truth, spoken in love... not as the world defines it, but as Christ calls us to be and live. Indeed, pray for repentance and a turning towards God, not only for America, but for the World.

For He holds us in hands.
We are His workmanship
To be used for His purposes
And His glory.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.
Until the whole world knows.

- PNC

I'm chuckling, just a little bit, but also, incredibly self-conscious, as I consider where I've missed the mark. We talked yesterday regarding Moses and Aaron and for whatever reason, their not following through on a direct instruction from God.

Meanwhile, yesterday afternoon, as I continued through Numbers, in chapter 22, is the story of Balaam. And again, God gives a clear direction to Balaam, regarding whether he should go with the princes of Moab and Balaam goes... not waiting for the prerequisite that God instructed him to wait upon.

Of course, the cool part of the story is that God speaks to Balaam through his donkey.

But the powerful part of the story is what was going on in the spirit realm. Balaam's life is spared because another being in his life sensed something was going on and was attempting to protect him. Balaam didn't realize what was going on, but someone (in this case, his donkey) knew better.

Yet this is why God speaks to Balaam through his donkey. Balaam, unaware, keeps trying to move forward... not thinking anything was wrong. The angel of the Lord who stands before him even acknowledges, Balaam wouldn't not have survived.

All of this got me thinking... how much trouble to we get into because we don't heed the spiritual warnings to back off, turn away or even, turn around. Hence, my aforementioned, self-conscious chuckle.

This further affirmed last night, by a piece written by Herman Cain, on his explanation of why mass shootings are becoming so frequent. It's a brilliant write up that I highly recommend, but he "pens" these words are he bring his thoughts to a close:

"It's because we've arrived at a consensus that we don't need God, and we can work out right and wrong for ourselves. So people do. Or they just disregard the whole idea and perpetrate evil, because hey, why not?"

Such a perception and thought process that permeates this culture creates quite a block to any evangelistic efforts. What's worse, is that at times, even Christians and those in ministry can find themselves, at a place of either not needing God or not needing God as much. Of course, this is a dangerous place to be, for what if you missing the warning signs that would keep you from all kinds of trouble and perhaps, even certain death.

So, let's pray this #missionFriday, that missionaries would rely all the more on God and His Word. May their be an awareness in their lives and from those they surround themselves with, to know what is at work in the spirit realm and where God is directing them. Pray for their efforts to reach the lost with the Gospel. May God break through and tear down these walls and misconceptions about Him that culture has seemingly embraced ever so tightly in recent years. Pray for hearts and minds to be changed and transformed. May we ever alert to the leading and guiding of the Spirit and the power of God at work in our lives. Pray for a massive move of repentance and returning to God, before it is too late.

That we would be people who seek God.
To obey His Word.
To speak the truth
And change our world.
All with the help of God alone.
For the glory of God
And the advancement of the cause of Christ.

- PNC

I'm letting you know now, I'm developing this thought process as I type and literally have no idea, where God will take this. I simply know what stood out to me, as I read from Numbers 20 yesterday afternoon.

It's the passing of Aaron, for the disobedience of he and his brother Moses, regarding God's instruction of speaking to the rock after Israel's complaining of the wilderness.  Of course, Moses still has a few more years, before his passing, as he too, obviously is not allowed to enter the Promised Land, for the same point of disobedience.

So often we look at the failures and fall-outs of church leadership and think it's all on the Pastors. But it's not. Aaron's story reminds us that advisors and counselors to the leadership are just as much held accountable.

Miriam's death, Aaron's death and ultimately Moses' death was a signal to Israel. God was and remains serious about His instructions and the follow-through, thereof.

I read an interesting blog post that explains this passage. Among the things that it points out, was Moses couldn't lead them into the land, as a representation of the Law. Miriam couldn't, as a representation of the prophets. And Aaron could not do so either, as the priest. Furthermore, the ceremony at the end of that passage, where the priesthood is transferred from Aaron to Eleazar, shows us that our relationship with God is not dependent upon the person. The office of the priest is higher than the flawed person who holds it.

Thus, it really is a pretty incredible concept that Jesus Christ is our High Priest, as well as the fulfillment of the Law.

That said... flawed people remain leading the people of God. And we too, are often as discontented and difficult as the Nation was for Moses and Aaron.

And on that note... let's pray this #deaconThursday for our flawed leadership. Pray that they would be men and woman who would not only hear from the Lord, but do and be as He directs and speaks into their lives. Pray that God would help them to seek and give wise counsel, rather than be persuaded by a frustrated and discontented people. Pray for a healthy respect and understanding of the office of authority that God has established, even when the people who hold the office miss the mark, even on a grand scale.

That we would not only hear the voice of God,
But follow it as well.
Our relationship with God forever strengthened.
For the plans and purposes of God.

- PNC

Well, I just very well might have gotten through to my kids. I've been trying to explain to them and get them to understand that the acquisition of certain things require time... and money.

For the most part, as an aspect being an adult, we understand this. Some of us, better than others. Getting kids to arrive at this understanding? Not so much. The world of instant and fast consumption keeps increasing, particularly, as we are ever more connected, often with one less middle-man.

So getting them to understand that the bigger hopes, dreams and desires take time and money has been a process. Every time we do this little thing, we go to this place or that, we purchase this little thing or that over there... it all takes away from our truest, desired, yet-to-exist realities.

As I was discussing this in terms the kids could understand, I had my epiphany. Is this not what we do with God?

He knows what He has in store for us.
He knows what He desires to accomplish in our lives.
He knows our hearts, yet He knows what's best.
He knows His love, but understands our will.
And in the midst of it all, exists grace. Because of His love.

But what is our response when He says "Wait."?
What is our response when He says "No."?
What is our response when He simply sits in silence?
(as if to say what I've often told my kids... "asked and answered")

Sometimes I think adults have a harder time in our relationship with God and the working out of communication and understanding of faith matters than we do in the relationships with our kids and the working out of communication and understanding of life principles.

How this phenomenon happens, I'm not sure. But I know it exists. Sadly, in my own life. Realistically, probably in yours. Most likely and perhaps even recently, also in the life of your pastor.

On that note... pray this #youthPastorWednesday for pastors dealing with tough and frustrating realities. For those frustrated by their current realities compared to their desired existence, pray that God would strengthen and encourage them. May God bring revelation to their hearts and minds. Pray for a clarity from the Holy Spirit regarding any sense of frustration or confusion regarding their lives and ministries. May God restore a sense of hope and energy to those exhausted and tired. Pray a new day would dawn, that a turn would be made, as the press in ever-closer to the throne of God and a fresh sense of His presence, even amidst the trials and trouble daily living.

To retain the faith of a child,
Even when our patience level is null.
God help us anew,
As we balance life on Earth,
While Heaven is home.
May we look to you alone,
For your glory, we pray.

- PNC

While browsing social media last night, someone posted Pastor Pomeroy's sermon from last week, Pomeroy being the Senior Pastor of First Baptist Church, in Sutherland Springs. He spoke on the life principle of NOT leaning on our own understanding, even in the most difficult and challenging of circumstances when life doesn't make sense.

Now, with half of his congregation in the presence of God, including his adopted 14-year old daughter, Pastor and his wife spoke with reporters for the first time yesterday. Among his brief remarks...

"Whatever life brings you, lean on the Lord rather than your own understanding. I don't understand but I know God does and that's where I'll leave that."

Remain resolved.

Talk about a man who put his own sermon into practice. We would expect and hope that to be the case, but if you've been in church for any length of time, we both know that's not always the case.

One kind of wonders... what other option does he have but to remain resolute in his faith? But as Job was advised by his wife in the face of a similar loss, as the sister and brother who lost half their family as a result of this tragedy, the pastor and others within the congregation could quit the faith, and/or the ministry.

Sadly many do, simply from burnout, without the horrific experience and effects of such a loss.

But I'm praying this Senior Pastor will inspire other pastors, not only at the senior/lead level but also all those at the associate level who work alongside them for the sake of the Gospel and the building of the body of Christ.

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, that are pastors would remain resolved, in mind, soul and spirit to remain grounded in the faith and press in to the presence of God where human understanding fails to grasp the struggle of our emotions in light of our realities. Pray for a strengthening and fortification of their spirits; that their faith would not falter or fail even in the face of evil and tragedy. May God continue to do a healing, restorative and revival work in this community, throughout our nation and around the world.

For the house of God
Is to be a house of prayer.
Not because of the leadership,
But because of the people.
May the church stand strong in their faith
As the lean upon God and not in their own understanding.
Resolved, no matter what.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

Well, first things first, on this incredibly somber Monday morning.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the pastors, leadership team, congregation and community of First Baptist Church in Sutherland Springs, Texas.

I'm shaking my head in disbelief, yet simultaneously frustrated on a number of levels.

Of course, society's commentary is already well under way.

How the church should respond.
How government should respond.
How legislation should respond.

These are incredibly complicated times. And yet they are blatantly simple times.

What is at work in the world has been a long-time coming, even more so as the created world continues to want nothing to do with it's Creator while simultaneously crying out for something greater than itself.

I don't know.

All I have right now, is the words of Christ.

Don't be surprised when this happens. The world hated Me. They will hate you also.

Yet somehow, the Christianity community will be known by there love for one another.

I don't know what tomorrow holds for any of us.
I do know that God holds tomorrow. Furthermore, He holds the whole world in His hands. And if we are to get through tomorrow, even if the whole world stands opposed to us, we will need the strength and grace of God to abound in our lives, homes and churches.

And lest we forget... let us be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Wisdom... comes first. May God fight for those who are His as we stand for Him.

Pray this #seniorPastorSunday for wisdom to navigate these certain, yet uncertain times. Pray for the strength to persevere in the face of evil and overwhelming odds. Pray for favor between church and community; that our love and passion for good and righteousness would emerge victorious. Pray for peace and comfort for this Sutherland Springs. May the Holy Spirit bring healing and restoration and may joy rise from this tragedy. A day of new beginnings. A day of revival.

God, come quickly.
Heal this very broken land.
That we turn from our wicked ways
And fall at the base of the Cross of Christ.
In surrender to your glory.
For the honor of your Name.

- PNC

Motivational speaker Justin Young says that “Great achievements are nothing more than a collection of small accomplishments.” 

It really is true. It's amazing how much can be done when even the littlest of tasks and responsibilities are taken care... even if they are not urgent or important. The couple of seconds or minutes it takes to get it done and out of the way does motivate one towards the next "what's next".

The principle is such a great reality that it's the driving force behind why Dave Ramsey's suggests in how financial plan to move from the smallest to largest balance when working on the elimination of debt. Knocking out the smallest balances gives you a relatively immediate sense of "win" and accomplishment, which motivates you to the next big thing. One after another, the momentum builds, until the great achievement is fulfilled.

How did you do that?

One day at a time. One focused attack. One payment at a time.

It's not that you aren't taking care of other things on your radar, but you are clearing the screen with what shows progress and working the process.

Pray this #effectiveSunday that God would help us tend to what needs to be done. May God grant strength and energy to remain focused, both on the larger picture and tasks but also determination to take care of the matters than can be the smallest and most dangerous hindrances if ignored. Pray for wisdom as we navigate the responsibilities God has entrusted to the body of Christ. May today be a day of great achievements because we have taken care of the small accomplishments while today is called today.

For yesterday is past
Tomorrow is yet not arrived.
Do today what is your hand and power to do
For the glory of God.

- PNC

I keep looking at the world and hearing what I often hear with my kids. And I keep wanting to have the same response as the question I ask them.

How hard is it to play nice?

Let me be clear... I'm not talking about "co-existing". And I'm not delving in to that matter here and now. However, for all the national and international debate taking place on any number of issues, at the end of the day, we are responsible first and foremost, for our individual words, attitudes and actions.

And seriously, I know certain people and personalities can rub us the wrong way and strained and stressed relationships of any kind can certainly be difficult to navigate, but how hard is it to smile?

A friendly acknowledgement of the life of another as you walk by each other.
By and large, you'll really notice the couple of seconds or minutes lost, by deferring to another through the simplest of gestures?

Regardless of religion, politics and economic differences, friendliness costs nothing but two seconds to determine every morning that you will display love and respect through the simplest word or deed of kindness.

Society does better than the church... or so it seems some days.
But a few minutes on social media quickly reminds me that the church should be leading the way in this lifestyle. Plus, we are instructed to love God and love our neighbor.

We keep trying to instruct our children to play nice, but we so often fail to do so as adults. And of course, the inconsistent message places them in a position where they are prone to repeat the cycle of broken adults. And sadly, that's what the world is full of.

Broken kids, who've become broken adults, who've in turn raised more broken kids...

And we watch the news and read our newsfeed and wonder what and how the world is and become so broken. Meanwhile, we deny and ignore the only source of healing and restoration.

So, before this post gets any longer, let's pray this #communitySaturday, that God would help us to be the church He has called and purposed us to live... to love Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and to love our neighbor as ourselves. May we be people of kindness as we interact with a world full of broken people and broken kids, living stressed out lives and engaged in strained relationships. Pray that we would be people who would not only reflect Christ, but encourage those around us to engage with Him. May God continue to grant us wisdom and discernment as we live through the current chaos and that He would accomplish the miraculous through our conversations.

That God would go before us,
As we step forward in faith and obedience
To be used for His glory and purpose
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

The more things change, the more they stay the same.

What is wrong, slowly becomes more acceptable. What was rare and infrequent has become the oft-repeated normal.

A pastor relayed the contents of a conversation he had recently with a young man from India who had visited the church. The two of them talked for a few moments, when the young man asked the pastor to keep his hometown in prayer; for the in the week prior to their conversation, tragedy had struck.

More like evil, actually.

As it turns out the local mob had paid a visit. To the missionaries. Where the broke both their arms and the legs. Solely for being Christian.

It was the same pastor who stated a perspective that we don't often think of... at least I don't, for reasons unknown. The very first recorded act of persecution. Do you know the answer? It also happens to be the first ever recorded act of murder.

Cain and Abel. Cain killed Able because Abel's sacrifice was acceptable and righteous and Cain's was not. Able was killed for his faith and relationship with Almighty God.

As this pastor stated:

The first to be murdered was the first to be martyred.

One source estimates that anywhere between 100,000 to 150,000 Christians are killed annually for their faith. A British study from a year or two ago, put out a conservative estimate at 105,000.

105,000 killed annually.
288 per day.
12 per hour.
1... every. 5. minutes.

One martyr every five minutes.

At 150,000.... 411 per day. 34 per hour. 1.4 every 2.5 minutes. How utterly insane is this? Yet we should not be surprised when this happens. It's also going to become more frequent.

Yet society and culture continue to push for openness and diversity, acceptance and tolerance; freedom to be and do whoever and whatever one desires and feels like, truly, on any given day.

But for the Christian...well, you're reading the same social media status updates and commentaries as I am. And the 100,000+ that aren't being murdered, hundreds of thousands more are being ridiculed and mocked. And never making headline news are the bodies being beaten and broken for the cause of Jesus Christ; even though they are a worse human rights violence than one's "right" to be offended. God help us all.

And pray this #missionsFriday, for those missionaries and Christians around the globe that are experiencing unbelievable persecution, beyond our belief, but quite the norm over the centuries. Pray for this society and culture who continues to reject God and mock and torture those who profess their belief in Him. Pray for a strengthening and a quickening for those suffering for the sake of Christ. May God work the miraculous through their lives, through their testimonies, and through their ministries. May their labor not be in vain, but produce the fruit for which the seeds of the Gospel were planted.

May God bring a healing to the land
As we are brought to a place of repentance
That we would turn from our wicked ways
And fall at the face of God and the feet of Christ
For His Word will not return void.
Every knee will one day bow.
What a day that will be.

- PNC

Yesterday morning, I managed to catch part of a political talk show and as the host prepared to play a clip regarding the recent tragedy in NYC, (our thoughts and prayers go out to those families and friends impacted in that community and city-at-large), I thought, how important of a perspective to keep in mind, not only for any leadership role, but especially church leadership.

The show host introduced the clip by offering their personal opinion on the matter and it was simply that the man speaking in the audio clip said too much. Of course, the audio clip was shocking and I as I listened, I couldn't help but talk to the radio! Why are you sharing that? Wow, that's a little much. And the guy kept going.

Suddenly, I was in awe. Not only did I not want to know that information, but the guy stated it for public, and worse, global consumption. Seriously?

I understand. For the longest time society kept some pretty horrendous existences behind closed doors, both in private and public life, whether at home, church or business. So, I get, for certain circumstances the need and desire for "transparency". I utilize the quotes though, because so much more has changed in our culture, especially when it comes to misunderstandings and the power of offense, that certain situations, details and plans are better kept to those who directly involved.

Not everybody needs to know everything. Not everybody can be trusted with everything.

The world is getting smaller. News travels faster. And things get out of control and out of context faster than the 0-60 time of your favorite exotic sports car.

Thus, of all organizations, if anyone should have a proper understanding followed by a wise and balanced approach between a leadership that is transparent and one that is discerning, it should be the church. But in reality... the church still struggles, both at the local and global level.

And on that note, let's pray to that end on this #deaconThursday. May God impart supernatural wisdom and discernment to the leadership of the church. Pray for a keen understanding and respect for the time and place regarding the dissemination of information. Pray for a humble spirit and a desire for wise counsel as they navigate the power of today's communication tools and how words and deeds are received and perceived in these difficult, 21st century days. May church leadership possess and continue to advance with a spirit of unity to the situations and circumstances they face and the people that are involved in them. Pray the spirit of offense would be far from us; that God would heal and restore such instances where trust has been broken and betrayed.

For we are not perfect,
But daily being transformed.
God help us navigate the process
To live, lead and serve with integrity.
For the glory and honor of God.

- PNC

There are two days that you can't control, or so says Dr. Tony Evans.

7 days a week. 365 days in a year (366 in a leap). And there's only two days which are beyond your control right now.

Yesterday. And... Tomorrow.

And yet regardless of our age, status and position in this life, we continually find ourselves battling between two states of mind while we live in the gift that is called today. All too often we live today frustrated about what went wrong yesterday or freaking out about what could go wrong tomorrow.

Even sitting here now, thinking about what's next, I find myself wishing that this particular life skill of enjoying today and not worried about the before and after was one that I had mastered sooner in life.

Some matters are not that important, and it the moment is a short-lived, "ugh" moment. Others have long-lasting impact and even longer-lasting consequences and for those that directly impact eternity or can played through to an eternal perspective... those circumstances and the thoughts of them that consume and preoccupy our hearts and our minds can be debilitating.

We are adults... surrounded by kids, wishing we had done things differently as kids and hoping that tomorrow we will be better adults. While we try to teach them what to do, we continue to search for ourselves what we should do. And in light of our faith, what God would have us to do.

For our calling, our anointing, our gifting. For the plans and purposes He has ordained in advance for us that we should walk in them. But we don't and can't... when we try to control what is beyond us. The yesterday that has passed. The tomorrow that awaits. There is only today.

Pray this #youthPastorWednesday that God would work the miraculous in the lives of pastors who still have their moments and even days where the past frustrates them and the future overwhelms them. Pray God would grant to them strength and peace; as He work in them to cast all their cares on Him. May pastors hold ever so steadfast to the promises of God and what He has declared and spoken over their lives. Pray that God would intervene in lives where the need to be better stewards of the time He has given exists.

For indeed He does have a plan.
And God is at work in our lives
Through the power of the Holy Spirit.
May we live faithful to the calling He has placed upon us.
For His glory, as we live and learn in His grace
And His mercy that is new every morning.

- PNC

I caught part of sermon broadcast yesterday morning from a local pastor and I kind of wish I had heard more of it. But a profound point was made through quite a humorous analogy.

The pastor was talking about the early church and how their efforts to spread the Gospel was not a competition. In proving his point, he talked about the one conversation we don't see in Scripture. The power of Peter's shadow compared to Paul's shadow. And of course, we don't hear about the power of Paul's shadow... he's too busy traveling on all the missionary journeys!

There isn't one ministry that is greater or more worthy within the body of Christ. There's not a pastor that is more important than another. There is not a volunteer that is more valuable than the next.

So here's pastor's profound point.

The church is not meant to compete against each other, but to complete each other.

One letter changes the entire dynamic of the relationships within the local church and with churches as a part of the global Christian community.

Oddly enough, or coincidentally, whichever suits your preference, that same concept also changes the entire dynamic of every personal relationship an individual aside, regardless of the realm or arena of life in which that relationship exists.

So, it begs the question... are churches, their pastors and leadership teams and the ministries that come forth from them in competition with each other or working to complete each other in the eternal mission of the body of Christ?

Let's pray this #associatePastorTuesday that churches and their leaders would continue and begin anew where necessary, to work to find ways to complete each other. May we not get so caught up in what is in front of us that we miss what other opportunities God may have placed before us to help others rather than try to get ahead of them. Pray for wisdom and discernment in how relationships are handled, how teams are managed and how the work of the ministry proceeds. May everything that is said and done be for the glory of God; let nothing become a hindrance to our witness that humanity would look upon the church with disgrace.

A beacon to the world;
A city set on a hill.
To testify of the glory and grace of God
Rather than to best one another in the flesh.
For the advancement of the Gospel of Christ.

- PNC

I had somewhat of an "ah-ha" moment yesterday afternoon, as a series of thoughts passed through my mind, hoping that something would stand out as inspiration. And I didn't see this one coming. But somewhere between pastor's message on having a hunger for God and Isaiah Thomas' writing on commitment and the connection was made.

So here it is.

Everything that we do in life is acted upon from one of two driving modes.

We walk and progress in our journey with either a driving hunger or a driving fear.

We are either in passionate pursuit or disabling doubt. As much as taking risk with consideration of consequence can be problematic, so to can living in hesitation with too much consideration given to the unknown create undue stress and frustration.

Life and faith requires careful consideration of planning and purpose, for sure. But at the same time, past experiences, failures and trials that "didn't work out" can become a debilitating hindrance. As a result, we are moving forward with strong intentionality or we are moving forward with even stronger restraint.

One would think, or more likely assume, that pastors automatically have a passion and hunger for God and ministry. And for the most part that is correct. But the reality of burnout cannot be denied or ignored. Which means at some point, something has changed. The hunger has diminished, which creates room for fear.

Something changes in the approach to ministry, in the handling of problems, in the communication of vision and in the health of relationships. And rarely do such circumstance turn out like the happy endings of the Hallmark movies vortex to which my wife has made me fall victim. But they have the potential to do so, as we continue to lift them up in prayer and encourage them in their life and ministry.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray that God would indeed strengthen their pursuit and passion of Him and the work to which He has called them. May they move forward with purpose, unhindered by fear, but walking with confidence. Pray that past mistakes and failures would not have a debilitating influence in the lives, but by the power of God, may they use those lessons as a positive source of discernment as they are led of the Holy Spirit. Pray they would remain ever so and even more hungry for God, His Word and His church.

A force to be reckoned with.
Because they are not dominated by fear.
But controlled by the Spirit.
For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I've been slowly reading my way through a book written from my favorite NBA player and I'd recommend getting a copy. The stories of what he's endured are pretty incredible.

The book is titled The Fundamentals and it's written by one of the great Bad Boys of the Detroit Pistons, Isaiah "Zeke" Thomas.

On a section headlined with the phrase "A life committed to success" he shares these words.

"Commitment powers dreams and goals into reality. It is the engine that powers the wheels. Without commitment, you go nowhere. People who never commit fully to their goals often feel lost or stuck. They are out of gas. They blame their "stuck" circumstance for their misery instead of taking responsibility for their own happiness and success. Their lack of commitment is a result of their lack of inner motivation."

Contrast that with the opening of next paragraph.

"With commitment, you can change not only your life, but the world around you. Those whom we honor and remember the most are generally those who have committed their lives to bettering the world and then lived that commitment."

Isaiah goes on to write, "You are fully committed to your goals when you decide that nothing will throw you off your course in pursuit of your dreams.... no one can stop you. No one can make you give up."

I know life is hard. Emotions and feelings and circumstance can really sway and pull on our hearts and minds to not do or desire to do or be the thing or place that we are. Even Christ understood and experienced this. Hence His cry on the cross, if possible take this cup from me. His life is replete with opportunities to step out and walk away and call for an entire different situation, outcome or result. And yet He remained committed. Even to death on the cross. Not an attractive end on a human level, but He allowed nothing and nobody to stop Him, nor make Him give up.

So that's my encouragement this morning. No matter what, stay committed. To the calling God has placed upon you, to the place God has positioned you; to the people He has surrounded you with; to the plan and purpose He has laid before you. Let nothing nor anyone discourage or distract you from pursuing and fulfilling what God has placed within you to accomplish for His kingdom and glory.

Pray this #effectiveSunday for God grace and strength to those feeling lost, stuck and demotivated. May they be encouraged, even this hour, to continue and stay the course.  Let not distractions and discourage detour and derail their lives and ministries. May they continue to progress forward under the power of God and the anointing of the Holy Spirit. Pray today would be a day of results, as lives are transformed and eternity forever changed because of the commitments that are made, renewed and fulfilled.

Effective for the ministry.
Committed to the cause.
Unwavering despite our feelings
As we walk in His footsteps.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

We all stand frustrated with the evil of  humanity and yet when asked, we fail to recognize the evil that resides in the heart of every individual. We ask how we got to this place as a society and a culture and yet we don't view our words and deeds in light of eternity.

We fail to recognize God, let alone seek to see and understand Him.
We wish for a purpose to this thing called life, but miss the opportunity to have a relationship with the One who designed us with and for a purpose.
We desire meaning and long to be loved, yet deny what Christ did for us and what it means for our lives.

We wonder why people don't do right nor even know what is right, while we teach that there are no absolutes, there are no eternal consequences and that you should trust your gut, do what you feel is best for your and operate by your feelings.

We are teaching and living lies.
All because we fail to believe the One who says that they and their Word are true and truth.

Yet, James McDonald says that hope takes work. Despair is nearly a default.

It stands to reason then, that if we are to have hope and it will require effort and time on a daily and sometime moment by moment basis, that would we put it our hope in someone/something that has stood the test of time; has never failed, never left, never missed a detail, never wasted an experience or a tear to bring about a divine, sovereign and glorious plan.

But that would be sensible and logical, even if it was a risk and a step of faith. And it amazes me how much risk we will accept and what steps we will take, for things far less impersonal and important in light of eternity. Yet when given the opportunity with God, far too many write it off as good for someone else... as if it's possible for humanity to be too good for the grace and love of God. For not only is that not possible, but quite the opposite is true.

People need hope. And the people of God need His help in communicating such to a world fill will evil living a default state of despair.

On this #communitySaturday, pray that people eyes would be opened to the truth of God and his plan and purpose for humanity. Pray that hearts and minds would be opened to the opportunity and risk to engage with Almighty God, Creator of the Universe. May we not be people who live in despair and frustration, but that would be people people who live in peace and hope, ready to give an answer to all who inquire as to our Source. Pray our active faith in Christ would shine to those around us.... like a city on a hill.

For God has not left us in our lonely state
But has made every effort and ultimate sacrifice
To display His love, plan and purpose.
For though He is frustrated with humanity,
We are not utterly destroyed.
Because of His love and His grace.
May we engage people with the same.
For the glory of God.

- PNC

James McDonald preaches a pretty powerful message, and quite a humorous one at that, on the story of man at the pool of Bethesda, from the passage in James 5. He actually opens as describing it as a verse by verse Bible study rather than a sermon.

It's gets interesting however, when he arrives at verse 4 of that passage. In fact, he polls his congregation. Half of those in the place are holding Bibles containing the verse (about the angel who stirs the pool waters) and the other half, holding Bibles where that bit of info is missing. Thus, if brings us an important aspect to remember when reading Scripture. If God wanted us to know it, He would have communicated as such.

In fact, McDonald advises his church and us as well, to remember the words of 1 Corinthians 4:6.

Do not exceed what is written.

We've all seen it happen, in all kinds of churches. McDonald even asks his church the question. How many problems would be solved if we simply heeded these six words.

Do not exceed what is written.

But this is #missionsFriday. So, I couldn't help but wonder, how much peoples understanding, or lack thereof stands in the way of their coming to faith. Scripture is full of text that is there for historical perspective, cultural context and principles that apply to day and standards of living for past, present and future societies. To have bits of information and understanding of the Word without revelation can be detrimental to one's faith, in whatever state it may exist or may be on the road to existence. And sadly, it's just as prevalent to believers within the church as it is with unbelievers outside the church.

And on that note, we should pray (before I have to rewrite this for the third time... don't ask)

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that the Gospel message would break-through people's own understanding of the Word. May revelation illuminate hearts and minds; that the words of Scripture would not be a hindrance to one's faith, but the foundation and building up of the faith. Pray the supernatural would occur, as the study of the Bible brings about a greater understanding of God and gratitude for His character and plans for our lives.

May the lives of every reader
Be forever transformed
For the sake of eternity.
Ever-closer in the walk with God
Reflecting the glory of Jesus Christ.
To change our world.

- PNC

John MacArthur is currently broadcasting his series on the study of the Bible and interpretation of it. And while it's emphasis could very much apply to pastors specifically and the preaching of the Word, I received it differently as I listened.

For when it comes to church staff and leadership, as they have their hands on the pulse of the congregation and to some degree the community, MacArthur's insight and wisdom on the matter was struck me as profound, yet simple. It was also relevant, as in recent years, culture has become obsessed with definitions and the redefining of things; whether to fit their narrative or support their agenda or belief or whatever.

Sadly, this is nothing new, even in the church. For longer than anyone cares to admit, church history is replete with both leadership and congregation approaching situations and circumstance with meanings and applications of Scripture that span the range of "not quite accurate" to severely taken out of context to "that's not what that means at all."

MacArthur asks this question, which I thought drove the point home nicely.

"Once you say something in the Bible is an allegory, that is, it is only a symbol of reality, you have just made it impossible to know what that reality is. Because if that reality can not be discerned through the normal understanding of language, how can it be discerned?"


I saw all that to say, that much of the trouble of preaching, teaching, counsel and wisdom within the church that leads to bigger problems than what is first posed, stems from the misunderstanding and misapplication of the Word of God.

Thus, and again, I'm standing first in line, we would do well to be become better students of God's Word. For in our relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, it is how His character, will and purpose is revealed. If we don't know it, we miss it and thus, miss out.

On this #deaconThursday, pray that both church leaders and parishioners would be greater students of the Word, both hearers and doers. May God help us to better understand the context of the Scriptures on their merit, as well as the impact it makes as we apply it to the context of today. Pray that church leaders would continue to seek the face of God, especially as they lead and advise. Pray for strength to pursue our understanding; that the Holy Spirit would illuminate hearts and minds as the Word is made alive to us, for indeed it is a living and active Word. May we handle with care, for indeed it is a two-edged sword.

For Thy Word is truth
In a world changing at speeds
For which we can't keep track,
May we hold tightly to God
Through the revelation of His love letter to all humanity.
For the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC

I recently heard the testimony and story of Emily Colson, daughter of well-known Chuck Colson and the story of her autistic son, Max. In fact, she and her dad wrote a book together before Chuck passed, telling their story, titled Dancing With Max.

But as I listened to her final remarks, she made an interesting point; that not only applies to pretty much everyone, let alone Christians and church leadership.

In discussing her son, Emily states that God's plan for Max, is not for him to be healed or changed so that he lives, acts and communicates like the rest of humanity. God's plan for Max is to be like Christ! This point she emphasizes, also happens to be God's plan for the rest of humanity.

Not that people would act like us, believe like us, look like us or live like us. We all should be ever changing and transforming towards the reflection of Christ.

And here's the part that stood out.

Too often we are concerned about having a perfect life, perfect moment, perfect experience.
Imagine if our focus was geared towards helping others, have the perfect life, a perfect moment or the perfect experience.

We worry, stress and all but freak out over the circumstance of which we will be directly affected. But what would happen if we stepped aside and served those around us; that they would walk away changed and impacted, refreshed, revived and renewed.

In our marriages. In our families. In our workplace. In our communities. And by all means, in our churches, as pastors and parishioners partner together for the cause of Jesus Christ.

Let's pray this #youthPastorWednesday, that indeed pastors and believers would take the lead, not to live for a series of "perfect" for our own lives, but to create life-changing moments for others, whereby we might be the blessing of God as God has blessed us. Pray for pastors who are not feeling refreshed as they endeavor to refresh others. May God return it to the them 10 and 100 fold. Pray for strength to continue the good work that God has called each of us to fulfill. May we not be consumed to compare ourselves to others, but consumed to bless others rather than ourselves. As God works in us, pray we would not hesitate to change how we interact with those around us and all the more, with those closest to us.

For we were created for fellowship with God
And relationship with each other.
Filled with the love of God
Empowered by the Holy Spirit
To be the hands and feet of Christ
For those who've yet to be transformed
By the love and grace of Almighty God.

- PNC

Well, our neighborhood lost power last night for a couple of hours. It wasn't even a full blown storm, just a cool, windy fall rain. However, at least one transformer blew and hence, an area was left in the dark.

I didn't know what to write for this post, until I had a light-bulb moment, thanks to the joys of technology. It worked out for us, as we had a prior engagement, so we weren't left sitting in looming blackness; we just left earlier than planned. As we were headed out, the text message came through from the energy company... crews had been dispatched. A little while later, another notification that they were on-site.

We stayed out a little longer, in hopes the power would be on sooner than the 4-hour window they were predicting and sure enough, two and half hours after we had left, the lights were on.

We've all been in the dark. About life. About faith. About relationships and careers; moves and finances and a whole host of who knows what, both on a significant and important, or not; on matters of eternity and carnality. Sometimes for a few hours; a few days... weeks and months, even. The worst are the periods of darkness that last for years.

Pastors are there and many don't notice when they are living in such period, not to mention what battles, struggles, challenges they face and what is going wrong in the darkened state.

Yet, in light of pastor burnout, as I ask you once again to join me in prayer, consider this...

What neighborhood do you support, as a crew-member who is involved in bringing light to those feeling and living as though they have been left in the dark?

Pray, this #associatePastorTuesday, for pastors that are living in the dark. Spiritually, emotionally, relationally, financially and more. Pray that the congregation would be a place of encouragement and support, even if very few know the details of the darkness. Pray pastors would not disappear into the blackness, but seek and search for those in whom they might confide and confess and reach out for guidance, wisdom and insight. May God give churches and congregations wisdom as well, to know how to help and discern potential situations, for times and circumstances where pastors might not know how to speak up and ask for help.

For we are the body of Christ
And as the physical body was designed to heal itself,
So too can the church help itself,
By knowing what is going on and recognizing when things are wrong.
With God's help and the power of the Holy Spirit,
We are stronger together than when we stand alone,
Especially in the darkness.

- PNC

I heard a statement the other day, that of course, I haven't been able to recall who made, but at the same time, I haven't forgotten about it either. But I thought it was an intriguing and profound picture and it's this:

The devil isn't concerned with dead pastors, but half-dead pastors.

The danger isn't found in the ones who are already burnt out, having nothing left to give and are no longer making a difference for the kingdom of God. It is however, found in those who while they may very well be on their way to such a state of existence, also still have opportunity to be revived and renewed, restored and brought back to a place health and wholeness.

And obviously, we aren't discussing a literally death. But in every other realm. Emotionally. Mentally. Spiritually. The dream is dead. The vision is lost. The hope is missing. The passion neglected.

The pastor who is well on his or her way to such a status of misery is the danger, for what if one intervenes and helps them find their way back. Where the dream is revived. The vision regained. The hope returns. The passion revisited.

To such an end and such a return we pray.

On this #seniorPastorMonday, pray for those pastors who feel as though they are indeed, existing in a half-dead state. Pray their strength and energy would be renewed and refreshed. May they be encouraged, even this day! Pray for the healing and revitalization of dreams and vision, hope and passion. Pray that the power of God would fill anew in the hearts and minds. May the Holy Spirit breathe a second wind into their lives and ministries.

That their efforts and abilities would be quicken and empowered
Like never before.
That they would be more dangerous than ever to the devil's schemes.
May the kingdom of God forever reign.
From now to all eternity.
For the glory of God.

- PNC