Insight for Living

The End of an Era -- Part 1

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, November 6, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny For forty significant years David reigned as king over God's people. Although checkered with failure and periodic lapses into carnality, David's rule was marked mainly by godliness and strength. Now at the end of his life, we find David old and perhaps physically stooped. He was facing that inevitable hour through which all must pass. Surrounded by his son, the king-elect Solomon, and an assembly of loyal followers, King David dreamed, rejoiced, gave advice, prayed, and finally died - ending an era that would never again be duplicated in the annals of history. 1 Chronicles 28-29

When the Godly Are Foolish -- Part 2

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, November 5, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Sadly, we do not reach perfection by growing older. Age alone does not guarantee maturity or freedom from error. As Elihu said to Job, "The abundant in years may not be wise" (Job 32:9). So true. Sometimes the aged saints among us act downright foolish! When these saints are also leaders, the consequences are usually greater. Consider the aged and otherwise godly David - a father of many, a courageous warrior in battle, a king for nearly four decades, and a sensitive man of God. In spite of these achievements and experiences, he made a foolish decision based on pride and fell into Satan's trap. From his error, we can all learn valuable lessons. 2 Samuel 24 1 Chronicles 21

When the Godly Are Foolish -- Part 1

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Sadly, we do not reach perfection by growing older. Age alone does not guarantee maturity or freedom from error. As Elihu said to Job, "The abundant in years may not be wise" (Job 32:9). So true. Sometimes the aged saints among us act downright foolish! When these saints are also leaders, the consequences are usually greater. Consider the aged and otherwise godly David - a father of many, a courageous warrior in battle, a king for nearly four decades, and a sensitive man of God. In spite of these achievements and experiences, he made a foolish decision based on pride and fell into Satan's trap. From his error, we can all learn valuable lessons. 2 Samuel 24 1 Chronicles 21

A Song of Triumph -- Part 2

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Pressure. We all respond differently to it. Some people do their best work under pressure. Others go into shut-down mode and wait for the intensity to pass. When David found the pressures of life weighing heavily on his shoulders, he often expressed his prayers to the Lord through song. Nearing the end of his life, with the pressures almost more than he could handle, David penned one of his greatest works, a song of triumph in the Lord's strength and provision. 2 Samuel 22

A Song of Triumph -- Part 1

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, November 2, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Pressure. We all respond differently to it. Some people do their best work under pressure. Others go into shut-down mode and wait for the intensity to pass. When David found the pressures of life weighing heavily on his shoulders, he often expressed his prayers to the Lord through song. Nearing the end of his life, with the pressures almost more than he could handle, David penned one of his greatest works, a song of triumph in the Lord's strength and provision. 2 Samuel 22

Being Big Enough to Forgive -- Part 2

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, October 30, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny We all know that forgiveness is costly. So much of the hurt we experience in our lives would be on the way to healing if we would choose the simple but difficult road toward forgiveness. As always in matters of forgiveness, the offended - the forgiver - must pay the full cost. That takes an awfully big person to pull it off. As we shall see, David filled those shoes. Can you? Ask yourself that question as we take a look at another remarkable moment in David's life. 2 Samuel 16:5-13 19:16-23

Being Big Enough to Forgive -- Part 1

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, October 29, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny We all know that forgiveness is costly. So much of the hurt we experience in our lives would be on the way to healing if we would choose the simple but difficult road toward forgiveness. As always in matters of forgiveness, the offended - the forgiver - must pay the cost in full. That takes an awfully big person to pull it off. As we shall see, David filled those shoes. Can you? Ask yourself that question as we take a look at another remarkable moment in David's life. 2 Samuel 16:5-13 19:16-23

Friends in Need -- Part 3

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Our recent times with David have been rather dismal and bleak. We've watched him fall into compromise ans sin . . . then witnessed his family begin to crumble under the load of sin's consequences. Going from bad to worse, the king must have felt crushed beneath the weight of overwhelming loneliness and guilt. In times like that, a person needs a friend. Not a preacher or a professional counselor. Not a physician or an attorney. Just a friend - someone to be near and listen, to reassure and understand. Coming out of the woodwork were several individuals who surrounded the discouraged monarch with support. 2 Samuel 15 17:27-29 19:1-8

Friends in Need -- Part 2

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Our recent times with David have been rather dismal and bleak. We've watched him fall into compromise ans sin . . . then witnessed his family begin to crumble under the load of sin's consequences. Going from bad to worse, the king must have felt crushed beneath the weight of overwhelming loneliness and guilt. In times like that, a person needs a friend. Not a preacher or a professional counselor. Not a physician or an attorney. Just a friend - someone to be near and listen, to reassure and understand. Coming out of the woodwork were several individuals who surrounded the discouraged monarch with support. 2 Samuel 15 17:27-29 19:1-8

Friends in Need -- Part 1

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, October 26, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Our recent times with David have been rather dismal and bleak. We've watched him fall into compromise and sin . . . then witnessed his family begin to crumble under the load of sin's consequences. Going from bad to worse, the king must have felt crushed beneath the weight of overwhelming loneliness and guilt. In times like that, a person needs a friend. Not a preacher or a professional counselor. Not a physician or an attorney. Just a friend - someone to be near and listen, to reassure and understand. Coming out of the woodwork were several individuals who surrounded the discouraged monarch with support. 2 Samuel 15 17:27-29 19:1-8

Riding Out the Storm -- Part 3

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, October 23, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny An ancient prophet of God wrote: "The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, / And the Lord will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. / In whirlwind and storm is His way." (Nahum 1:3). Strong words of warning! Our holy God of glory in no way winks at sin among His children. With power He has His way "in whirlwind and storm" as He disciplines us when we stray. We have traced David's tragic steps downward as the consequences of His disobedience were visited upon him. Now, let's learn to ride out the whirlwind and storm when we go through similar times of judgment under the smarting rod of God. 2 Samuel 12:15b-25

Riding Out the Storm -- Part 2

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, October 22, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny An ancient prophet of God wrote: "The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, / And the Lord will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. / In whirlwind and storm is His way." (Nahum 1:3). Strong words of warning! Our holy God of glory in no way winks at sin among His children. With His power He has His way "in whirlwind and storm" as He disciplines us when we stray. We have traced David's tragic steps downward as the consequences of his disobedience were visited upon him. Now, let's learn to ride out the whirlwind and the storm when we go through similar times of judgment under the smarting rod of God. 2 Samuel 12:15b-25

Riding Out the Storm -- Part 1

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny An ancient prophet of God wrote: "The Lord is slow to anger and great in power, / And the Lord will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. / In whirlwind and storm is His way." (Nahum 1:3). Strong words of warning! Our holy God of glory in no way winks at sin among His children. With power He has His way "in whirlwind and storm" as He disciplines us when we stray. We have traced David's tragic steps downward as the consequences of disobedience were visited upon him. Now, let's learn to ride out the whirlwind and the storm when we go through similar times of judgment under the smarting rod of God. 2 Samuel 12:15b-25

Trouble at Home -- Part 3

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, October 20, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny No pain is harder to bear than domestic difficulty. We can bounce back from the blow at work or recover fairly rapidly from problems at school. Even physical infirmities or emotional battles - as hurting as they may be - can hardly be compared to the devastating impact brought on by trouble at home. Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises God's standard. Not even a king . . . like David. Witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences fell on David and his family. As we watch it happen, let's take heed!

Trouble at Home -- Part 2

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, October 19, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny No pain is harder to bear than domestic difficulty. We can bounce back from the blow at work or recover fairly rapidly from problems at school. Even physical infirmities or emotional battles - as hurting as they may be - can hardly be compared to the devastating impact brought on by trouble at home. Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises God's standard. Not even a king . . . like David. Witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences fell on David and his family. As we watch it happen, let's take heed!

Trouble at Home -- Part 1

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, October 16, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny No pain is harder to bear than domestic difficulty. We can bounce back from the blow at work or recover fairly rapidly from problems at school. Even physical infirmities or emotional battles - as hurting as they may be - can hardly be compared to the devastating impact brought on by trouble at home. Family feuds, wayward kids, parent-child clashes, husband-wife disagreements, and other in-house pressures have a way of breaking our spirits and stealing our joy. And no one is immune who compromises God's standard. Not even a king . . . like David. Witness the monarch's misery as the sword of consequences fell on David and his family. As we watch it happen, let's take heed!

Confrontation! -- Part 3

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, October 15, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny The deed was done. Whispers of a scandalous nature buzzed around David's palace, but no one dared say a word to the king. His bride of a few months was obviously pregnant . . . bringing a mute reminder of that fateful spring night when adultery stained the record of the king's reign. And murder. And hypocrisy. And continued deception. And a silent cover-up. David revealed the way the guilt took its toll on the monarch, even though he kept silent about his sin and refused to repent (Psalm 32:1-4). That is, he refused until a man of incredible courage and bold honesty stood eyeball-to-eyeball with David and exposed the truth of his deeds and deception. Let's honor that man - the prophet Nathan. 2 Samuel 12:1-15a

Confrontation! -- Part 2

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, October 14, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny The deed was done. Whispers of a scandalous nature buzzed around David's palace, but no one dared say a word to the king. His bride of a few months was obviously pregnant . . . bringing a mute reminder of that fateful spring night when adultery stained the record of the king's reign. And murder. And hypocrisy. And continued deception. And a silent cover-up. David revealed the way the guilt took its toll on the monarch, even though he kept silent about his sin and refused to repent (Psalm 32:1-4). That is, he refused until a man of incredible courage and bold honesty stood eyeball-to-eyeball with David and exposed the truth of his deeds and deception. Let's honor that man - the prophet Nathan. 2 Samuel 12:1-15a

Confrontation! -- Part 1

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny The deed was done. Whispers of a scandalous nature buzzed around David's palace, but no one dared say a word to the king. His bride of a few months was obviously pregnant . . . bringing a mute reminder of that fateful spring night when adultery stained the record of the king's reign. And murder. And hypocrisy. And continued deception. And a silent cover-up. David revealed the way the guilt took its toll on the monarch, even though he kept silent about his sin and refused to repent (Psalm 32:1-4). That is, he refused until a man of incredible courage and bold honesty stood eyeball-to-eyeball with David and exposed the truth of his deeds and deception. Let's honor that man - the prophet Nathan. 2 Samuel 12:1-15a

The Case of the Open Window Shade -- Part 3

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, October 12, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Those of us looking at David's life may use different words to say the same thing about his fatal experience with Bathsheba. We might call it the most distressing episode of David's life; some will see it as an exceedingly dark day; others will lament how the mighty have fallen. However we describe it, the encounter with Bathsheba and subsequent acts of sin stand as a never-to-be-forgotten illustration of the New Testament warning: "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall" (1 Corinthians 10:12). 2 Samuel 11

The Case of the Open Window Shade -- Part 2

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, October 9, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Those of us looking at David's life may use different words to say the same thing about his fatal experience with Bathsheba. We might call it the most distressing episode of David's life; some will see it as an exceedingly dark day; others will lament how the mighty have fallen. However we describe it, the encounter with Bathsheba and subsequent acts of sin stand as a never-to-be-forgotten illustration of the New Testament warning: "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall" (1 Corinthians 10:12). 2 Samuel 11

The Case of the Open Window Shade -- Part 1

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, October 8, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Those of us looking at David's life may use different words to say the same thing about his fatal experience with Bathsheba. We might call it the most distressing episode of David's life; some will see it as an exceedingly dark day; others will lament how the mighty have fallen. However we describe it, the encounter with Bathsheba and subsequent acts of sin stand as a never-to-be-forgotten illustration of the New Testament warning: "Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall" (1 Corinthians 10:12). 2 Samuel 11

Grace in a Barren Place -- Part 2

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Looking at 2 Samuel 7, we found David enjoying a brief time of relief from the demands of his role as king . . . and interlude of quietness. Now we find him in a similar context. He was thinking back over his past. Naturally, his thoughts turned to his relationships with Saul and Jonathan and his promise to both. Reflecting on those things, he was determined to carry out his promise, regardless. This chapter conveys how he kept his promise, forming a beautiful and rich analogy of what God, in his grace, has done for us. 2 Samuel 9

Grace in a Barren Place -- Part 1

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, October 6, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Looking at 2 Samuel 7, we found David enjoying a brief time of relief from the demands of his role as king . . . an interlude of quietness. Now we find him in a similar context. He was thinking back over his past. Naturally, his thoughts turned to his relationships with Saul and Jonathan and his promise to both. Reflecting on those things, he was determined in his heart to carry out his promise, regardless. This chapter conveys how he kept his promise, forming a beautiful and rich analogy of what God, in grace, has done for us. 2 Samuel 9

When God Says No -- Part 3

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, October 5, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Some experiences in the Christian life are best described as times of misery. Failure, mixed with disobedience and discouragement, is hard to bear. Some experiences are times of ministry, where the Lord gives special measures of strength and encouragement - where you are used in fruitful ways - and it's a downhill slide. Some experiences are times of mystery. Nothing is necessarily wrong or missing in your walk with the Lord, but for some unexplainable reason He places a definite restraint on you. His denial can lead to disillusionment or be used as a cause for continued growth in obedience. David experienced that mysterious "no" at a crucial juncture in his life. Let's see how he handled it. 2 Samuel 7

When God Says No -- Part 2

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Friday, October 2, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Some experiences in the Christian life are best described as times of misery. Failure, mixed with disobedience and discouragement, is hard to bear. Some experiences are times of ministry, where the Lord gives special measures of strength and encouragement - where you are used in fruitful ways - and it's a downhill slide. Some experiences are times of mystery. Nothing is necessarily wrong or missing in your walk with the Lord, but for some unexplainable reason He places a definite restraint on you. His denial can lead to disillusionment or be used as a cause for continued growth in obedience. David experienced that mysterious "no" at a crucial juncture in his life. Let's see how he handled it. 2 Samuel 7

When God Says No -- Part 1

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:00 EST

Thursday, October 1, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Some experiences in the Christian life are best described as times of misery. Failure, mixed with disobedience and discouragement, is hard to bear. Some experiences are times of ministry, where the Lord gives special measures of strength and encouragement - where you are used in fruitful ways - and it's a downhill slide. Some experiences are times of mystery. Nothing is necessarily wrong or missing in your walk with the Lord, but for some unexplainable reason He places a definite restraint on you. His denial can lead to disillusionment or be used as a cause for continued growth in obedience. David experienced that mysterious "no" at a crucial juncture in his life. Let's see how he handled it. 2 Samuel 7

David and the Ark -- Part 2

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Wednesday, September 30, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Once David became the king of Israel, he desired to reestablish the name and worship of Jehovah in the conscience of the nation. Under Saul, the Jews had become negligent in their spiritual walk. Because the favor and protection of Jehovah were inseparably linked with certain tangibles (burnt offerings, observing the Sabbath, and revering tabernacle furniture), the king determined to secure the ark of the covenant and reinstate the significance of the tabernacle . . . placing the ark in the midst of the people in Jerusalem. This chapter of Scripture involves all that transpired in moving the ark to the capital city and David's response to its presence. 2 Samuel 6

David and the Ark -- Part 1

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Tuesday, September 29, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Once David became the king of Israel, he desired to reestablish the name and worship of Jehovah in the conscience of the nation. Under Saul, the Jews had become negligent in their spiritual walk. Because the favor and protection of Jehovah were inseparably linked with certain tangibles (burnt offerings, observing the Sabbath, and revering tabernacle furniture), the king determined to secure the ark of the covenant and reinstate the significance of the tabernacle . . . placing the ark in the midst of the people in Jerusalem. This chapter of Scripture involves all that transpired in moving the ark to the capital city and David's response to its presence. 2 Samuel 6

New King, New Throne, Same Lord -- Part 2

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 00:00:00 EST

Monday, September 28, 2009 Host: Chuck Swindoll Series: David: A Man of Passion and Destiny Most of us have known the experience of being given a raise or a promotion in our employment. We've also known the experience connected with starting a new job - one we never thought we would have. But no one reading these words has ever known the experience of being promoted from a fugitive to a king overnight. Think of it! One day, you're on the bottom - the next, on the top. It happened only once in Scripture - to David. With wisdom and humility, the new king took over a new throne because he had the same Lord.

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Israel 2010

See the Biblically Significant Sites of the Holy Land Make the pilgrimage of a lifetime and blend the spiritual with the historical as we visit such revered sites as the Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem, and the hillside where Jesus gave the Sermon on the Mount. Join Chuck and Cynthia Swindoll in Israel March 8-19, 2010. You will also enjoy the musical talents of Steve Green and Stephen Nielson and the dramatic presentations of Reg Grant.

Visit www.insight.org/israel for details.

David: A Man of Passion and Destiny

The Bible famously calls David "a man after [God's] own heart," indicating David's willingness to follow after God in humility and faithfulness (1 Samuel 13:14). Do you desire, like David, to be a person after God's own heart? What better way to understand how to live out that ideal in your own life than to examine the life of David?

Join Chuck Swindoll as he preaches through the life of this godly servant of old. Beginning in the most humble of circumstances, David rose slowly to prominence in the sight of Israel. His absolute trust in the Lord during his early years, his repentant response to his grievous sin with Bathsheba, and his continued faithfulness during the trials of his later years will encourage you to grow in your relationship with God, no matter where you find yourself in life.

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Go Beyond the Broadcast

Insight for Living 2010 Reformation Tour

Would you like your vacation next summer to be inspired by some heroes of church history? Join Insight for Living on our 2010 Reformation Tour July 28–August 9, 2010 as we retrace the spread of the Protestant Reformation through Czech Republic, Germany, and Switzerland. One highlight: yo'll see The Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany, which is performed only once every 10 years! Visit www.insight.org/reformation for details.

Text Article: Amazing Grace on Display

The word grace means many things to many people.

Text Article: Spiritual Leadership

Citing Moses's, Peter's, and David's ragtag followers as examples, Chuck Swindoll reminds us that the people God uses in significant ways don't always fit the world's mold of a natural-born leader. When a leader's heart belongs to God and he or she is allowing the Holy Spirit to work through him or her, personal eccentricities and weaknesses cease to matter; this leader will be able to accomplish the ministry God has set before him or her. That should be good news to all of us!

Text Article: A Sheltering Tree

There is a pattern found in Scripture of how God chooses to minister to His servants when they get beaten down by opposition. His method can be described in a word: friendship. Chuck Swindoll gives several accounts of how God provided human relationships to keep people from giving up at their lowest points. We all need to find that kind of support in our lives and be willing to provide it to close friends when they need a place of rest and acceptance.

Text Article: What to Do When A Leader Falls

This article addresses the sad, unfortunate situation when a Christian leader is willingly violating God's standards without a repentant heart. It outlines how, when, and why to discipline the offender and thus helps you to go beyond the conflicting emotions involved. The apostle Paul gave some specific directions on this topic so that the sacredness of God's ministry and His calling could be protected.

Text Article: Creating a Legacy of Forgiveness: Cancel the Debt

Chuck Swindoll clarifies in this article what true forgiveness must involve to be complete and in obedience to God's Word. We can't be expected to erase our memories of offenses against us, but we can and must make the willful choice not to hold a grievance over another's head and hold him or her captive to the debt owed us.

Text Article: Ragged-Edge Faith and Reckless Generosity

Chuck Swindoll reflects on the strong faith of his older brother, Orville, and on Orville's ability to trust in Jesus to meet the needs of his family. We live in a materialistic society, where our security seems to come from what we own and have stashed away. Chuck suggests that whether we have abundance or are seeing lean times, our security must come only from God and His promise to provide for all of our needs. Only then can we be truly generous.

Text Article: Tightwads

Using a rather extreme example, Chuck Swindoll illustrates the pointlessness of being stingy with our wealth and possessions in this life. He asserts that whoever is reluctant to part with some of his or her assets is also one who doesn't dare to dream big dreams or attempt great things for God. This article challenges us to evaluate our generosity and our vision of what God can accomplish through our faith.

Text Article: Everything Is Under Control

At the heart of life's major struggles is a theological issue.

Text Article: God Knows Your Ways

"God has the whole world in His hands." Remember the old gospel song?

Text Article: It's Not About You

Drawing from the apostle Paul's example of how he accepted his own weaknesses and hardships, Chuck Swindoll reminds us of what we often don't want to hear: our life on earth is for the purpose of making us more like Christ. Unfortunately, nothing does that better than the trials and pains we suffer. But if we, like Paul, can keep our eyes on the ultimate goal of letting God work through us, we'll learn to accept joyfully whatever God brings us and not seek the easy, pain-free life instead.

Text Article: God Is Faithful

Why did God propel the young girl named Esther to the position where she alone could influence the fate of the Jewish people? Chuck Swindoll suggests that it's because God knew Esther had a teachable heart and a humble and obedient spirit. He knew she would not be swayed by the trappings and all the temptations of kingdom life but would remain grounded in the teachings and faith that Mordecai had modeled to her. How would you do today if God tested you? Would you have a teachable spirit as Esther did?

Text Article: The Problem with Prayer

Most of us have struggled at times with our prayer life and with understanding how and when God answers prayer. This article gives a unique and valuable perspective to keep in mind when we aren't seeing the results we'd like from our times of prayer. The three suggestions made here may help you pinpoint any errors you may have in your own thinking when it comes to prayer.

Text Article: Songless Saints

I was on a scriptural safari. Prowling through the Ephesian letter, I was tracking an elusive, totally unrelated verse when God's sharp sword flashed, suddenly slicing me to the core.

Text Article: Despite Your Circumstances

Few people in the first century had a deeper understanding of God's grace than the apostle Paul.

Text Article: Marital Grace

Through confessing an area of weakness in his own life and marriage, Chuck explains the necessity of allowing grace into your marriage relationship by trusting your spouse and setting him or her free. Jealous, controlling thoughts and behavior that merely reflect one's own fears and insecurities will smother and stifle your spouse and, therefore, your marriage.

Text Article: Unique Techniques: A Lesson from the Life of David

Just as in David's day, we tend to evaluate people based too much on the external characteristics we can see: appearance, stature, poise, demeanor. Chuck Swindoll reminds us that it's the size and quality of our faith that makes us great in God's eyes. When we remember this, we don't have to try to fit into others' molds or define ourselves by their expectations.

Text Article: Anniversaries

This is a reflective article Chuck wrote after celebrating his fiftieth anniversary with his wife, Cynthia. He reminisces on the many shared experiences over the years, the joys and the hardships they both endured, and the transitions they faced as they both learned and developed as people and as Christians.

Text Article: Unquenchable Hope

Throughout his more than forty years as a pastor, Chuck Swindoll has seen many believers who have started out strong in their faith but who have been beaten down over time through difficult circumstances and life events that didn't turn out as expected. Using Scripture, he reminds us of how the promises in the Bible are not just for the future but of great benefit to us right here in the present.

Text Article: Creativity and Tenacity

On May 24, 1965, a thirteen-and-a-half-foot boat slipped quietly out of the marina at Falmouth, Massachusetts. Its destination? England.

Text Article: It Takes Courage

Deep within, we imagine ourselves as a mixture of Patrick Henry, Davy Crockett, John Wayne, and the prophet Daniel!

Text Article: The Joys of Generosity

In this article, Chuck Swindoll makes a strong correlation between godly contentment and joyful generosity. He describes four benefits that will result for a person who can remember that God is the author of divine resources and gives generous gifts to His children.

Text Article: Christmas All Year Long

Have you ever thought about giving something away every day of the year leading up to Christmas?

Text Article: Peace That Exceeds Understanding

Is it possible to have peace and calmness when the events all around you are telling you that you can't? Chuck Swindoll states that the way to this peace-shalom-is through a simple but complete trust in God's promises of support. That's why the world cannot understand this kind of inexplicable peace. It can't be manufactured apart from a willingness to release our cares into God's loving care.

Text Article: Commence Prayer

This actually happened years ago.

Text Article: Jesus Has a Question for You

Chuck Swindoll recalls the scene in Scripture where Jesus asked His disciples, "Who do you say that I am?" After reporting to Him what other people around them were saying, it was their turn to state just who they believed Him to be. Peter passed the test with flying colors by recognizing Jesus as the Son of God. Who do you say that He is? Your answer will change your life and define your future.

Text Article: Think Theologically, Not Logically

Sometimes life hits us so hard that we begin to doubt all we've learned about God and the Bible. Our circumstances loom large and crowd out our view of anything else. At those times, this is a very practical and helpful article to read. Chuck Swindoll encourages us to remain hopeful by relying on our all-powerful, loving, and never-changing God.

Text Article: The Biblical Basis for Encouragement

Chuck Swindoll centers on some much-quoted verses in Scripture that are, nevertheless, often too infrequently applied. He says that the need for Christians to fellowship together in an atmosphere of acceptance and empowerment has never been greater. The times we live in are growing more and more hostile to those who wish to stand firm for holiness. So we need to be careful not to add to that environment but to counter it with love and grace.

Text Article: Discovering the "Missing Jewel" of the Church

Chuck Swindoll points out that the idea of worship has become too vaguely understood in the church today. Many liken worship to a particular style of music or teaching. Many think it has to do with a certain feeling. After recognizing these and other misconceptions, Chuck explains what worship really means and encourages us to focus on it more regularly.

Text Article: A Unique Spokesperson: A Lesson from the Life of Elijah

Chuck Swindoll sees the Old Testament character Elijah as an unlikely choice for the one to stand up to a king and speak out for biblical truth. But God chose him for his commitment and his heart for God in the face of evil. In the same way, God has an important calling today for anyone who is willing to stand alone for Him.

Text Article: Life Is Difficult: A Lesson from the Life of Job

Chuck Swindoll recalls all of the sudden losses Job experienced, within just a few days, through no fault of his own. Chuck challenges us to think of how we would respond after such unjust circumstances, when we then couldn't hear the voice of God through our turmoil.

Text Article: Buried Long Enough

Solomon once wrote: "He who walks in integrity walks securely, but he who perverts his ways will be found out" (Proverbs 10:9).

Text Article: Back Door Blessing

I had lunch recently with a businessman who runs his own company. As we talked, the subject of wisdom kept popping up in our conversation. We were agreeing on the value of certain qualities that cannot be learned in school-things like intuition, diligence, integrity, perception, consistency, loyalty-when he, again, mentioned wisdom.

Text Article: For Dads

I don't often recommend a volume without reservation, but I think every man should read Temptations Men Face by Tom Eisenman. ...

Text Article: Endangered Species

Psalm 78 Remember when men were men? Remember when you could tell by looking? Remember when men knew who they were, liked how they were, and didn't want to be anything but what they were?

Text Article: The Greatest Influence

Several years ago, someone interviewed the contemporary artist Marc Chagall for a PBS program. The young, arty interviewer started the session with a question about influences.

Text Article: Mother's Day

If there's one attitude families are guilty of more than any other when it comes to mothers, it's presumption . . . taking them for granted . . . being nearly blind on occasion to the load moms carry.

Text Article: The Final War

Romans 11:33-36; 2 Peter 3

Text Article: An Invitation to Touch the Skin of Infinite God

Childbirth is something no man can completely appreciate.

Text Article: The Cemetery Evangelist

When I was growing up in Houston, our family lived across the street from a man and woman who had married later in life.

Text Article: Giving and Living the Gospel

One of the most effective evangelists I have ever known was a fellow who ran a service station on Arlington Avenue just outside Boston.

Text Article: Not Forgotten: A Lesson from the Life of Esther

God's presence is not as intriguing as His absence. His voice is not as eloquent as His silence.

Text Article: Becoming a Man or a Woman after God's Own Heart

When God scans the earth for potential leaders, He is not on a search for angels in the flesh.

Text Article: Solitude: A Vital Factor in Growing Closer to God

I often smile when I read the Gospel of Mark. He loved the word "immediately." It appears again and again.

Text Article: How to Waste Your Time This Year

With the dawning of a new year comes a deluge of resolutions, reminders, and exhortations.

Text Article: The Gift for the Person Who Has Everything

In our pocket of society where pampered affluence is rampant, we are often at a loss to know what kind of gifts to buy our friends and loved ones on special occasions.

Text Article: A Reflection of Christ: A Lesson from the Life of Joseph

Joseph's life offers us a magnificent portrayal of the grace of God as He came to our rescue in the Person of His Son, Jesus.

Text Article: Why We Have Confidence in the Bible

What is your final authority in life?

Text Article: Scriptural Support for Christ's Return

These facts from biblical prophecy about Christ's return may surprise you.

Text Article: A Battle for Integrity

I must tell you that I have been troubled regarding the face of things in our country and within the family of God. My major battle has had to do with one word, one concept. My battle has to do with integrity.

Text Article: At the Threshold of an Open Door

When I was growing up, I never knew cursing, drinking, divorce, or what people commonly call "the wild life." And believe it or not, at the time I didn't know the rest of the world was any different.

Text Article: The Winsome Witness

I remember a fun 'n' games night around the supper table in our house. It was wild. First of all, one of the kids snickered during the prayer (which isn't that unusual) and that tipped the first domino.

Text Article: Discover a Friend Worth Following:

A Close Look at Jesus' Friendships Know That Jesus is Your Friend Indeed