Insight for Living

The Bible-Teaching Ministry of Pastor Chuck Swindoll

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Luke

Things to Stop and Start

Many of us spend our days saying, “I don’t have enough time!” Meanwhile, our cluttered closet stays cluttered, the thought of our estranged family member still stirs up resentment in our heart, and our time with God remains on the back burner.

Is it really true that we don’t have enough time? Or do we just need help prioritizing what truly matters?

Join Chuck Swindoll for this vital message series and learn:

  • Why to say no to procrastination, blaming, drifting, and other negative traits
  • How to say yes to following through, forgiving, digging into our faith, and more

Let’s start making the most of the time God has given us.


We often complain about not having enough time, yet we allow our lives to be cluttered with habits and attitudes that drain our spiritual energy. In this series, Chuck Swindoll challenges us to take an honest inventory of our lives. Following the biblical principle of “putting off” the old and “putting on” the new, we examine the practical shifts necessary for spiritual maturity. From stopping the blame game to starting a life of vulnerability, these messages offer a roadmap for making the most of the time God has given us.

Message 1: Stop Drifting Along and Start Digging In

Sermon Summary Getting older happens automatically, but growing up spiritually requires intentionality. Too many believers find themselves years into their faith but still shallow in their understanding of God’s Word. This message explores how to stop the passive drift of “easy” Christianity and start the disciplined work of digging deep into the scriptures.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Intentional Growth: Why spiritual maturity is never accidental.
  • The Danger of Shallow Faith: Moving beyond basic knowledge to a life-changing understanding of God.

Primary Scripture References

  • Hebrews 5:11–6:1: The call to move past the elementary teachings and go on to maturity.
  • 2 Peter 3:18: The command to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.

Message 2: Stop Procrastinating and Start Following Through

Sermon Summary Procrastination is often a mask for fear or a lack of discipline. It leaves us with a life full of “half-finished” projects and unkept promises to God. Chuck provides biblical motivation for honoring our commitments and the spiritual benefits of consistent follow-through.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Cost of Delay: How putting things off hinders our witness and spiritual effectiveness.
  • Faithful Stewardship: Treating our time and tasks as a sacred trust from God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Ecclesiastes 5:4–5: The importance of fulfilling the vows we make to God.

Message 3: Stop Shaming and Start Honoring

Sermon Summary Shame is a destructive tool that isolates and devalues people. In contrast, the biblical call is to honor one another. This message looks at how we can stop using shame as a weapon—whether against ourselves or others—and start reflecting the dignity that God places on every human being.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Grace Alternative: Moving from a culture of condemnation to one of restoration.
  • Building Up vs. Tearing Down: The power of our words to reflect God’s heart.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Romans 12:10: The command to “outdo one another in showing honor.”

Message 4: Stop Blaming and Start Forgiving

Sermon Summary Blame is the enemy of growth because it refuses to take responsibility. By shifting the focus to others’ faults, we remain stuck in bitterness. Chuck explores how to break the cycle of blame by embracing the radical, freeing power of forgiveness—both for ourselves and those who have wronged us.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Ownership: The necessity of taking responsibility for our own reactions and choices.
  • The Freedom of Forgiveness: Why letting go of the “debt” is the only path to healing.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Colossians 3:13: Bearing with one another and forgiving as the Lord forgave us.

Message 5: Stop Worrying and Start Trusting

Sermon Summary Worry is a heavy burden that God never intended us to carry. It assumes that God is not in control or not concerned. This message contrasts the paralysis of anxiety with the peace that comes from actively trusting in the character and promises of our Heavenly Father.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Anxiety vs. Assurance: Shifting focus from our problems to God’s power.
  • Daily Dependence: The practice of “casting cares” on the One who cares for us.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • 1 Peter 5:7: Casting all your anxieties on Him, because He cares for you.

Message 6: Stop Resisting and Start Submitting

Sermon Summary Our natural inclination is to fight for our own way, often resisting God’s leading and authority. Chuck examines the beauty and strength found in submission—recognizing that when we stop resisting God’s plan, we find the very protection and guidance we’ve been seeking.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Strength of Surrender: Why submission is a sign of spiritual power, not weakness.
  • Trusting Authority: Finding peace in God’s sovereign direction for our lives.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • James 4:7: “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.”

Message 7: Stop Acting Perfect and Start Being Vulnerable

Sermon Summary Many Christians feel the pressure to “have it all together,” which leads to hypocrisy and isolation. This message encourages us to drop the mask of perfection. When we are honest about our struggles and weaknesses, we create space for God’s power to work and for genuine community to flourish.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Authenticity: The spiritual relief of being real about our needs.
  • Grace in Weakness: How vulnerability invites God’s strength into our lives.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • 2 Corinthians 12:9: God’s power is made perfect in our weakness.

Message 8: Stop Lying and Start Acknowledging

Sermon Summary Deception, even in “small” ways, erodes character and destroys trust. Chuck addresses the importance of total honesty, starting with acknowledging the truth about our own hearts before God. This message is a call to live a life of integrity where our outside matches our inside.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Integrity: The foundational role of truth in the life of a believer.
  • The Power of Confession: The healing that comes from bringing truth into the light.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Proverbs 28:13: “Whoever conceals his transgressions will not prosper, but he who confesses and forsakes them will obtain mercy.”

Message 9: Stop Criticizing Earth and Start Contemplating Heaven

Sermon Summary It is easy to become cynical and hyper-critical of the world around us. In this series finale, Chuck encourages us to lift our gaze. By focusing on the reality and beauty of our eternal home, we find the perspective and hope needed to live faithfully and joyfully in the present.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Eternal Perspective: How the hope of Heaven changes our priorities on Earth.
  • Joyful Endurance: Moving from a critical spirit to a heart filled with anticipation.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Colossians 3:1–2: Setting our minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.

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Gloria in Excelsis Deo Concert

Have the songs of the season left you tone deaf to the real tune of Christmas? It’s time to saturate your senses with the melody of the Incarnation and the joy of welcoming God’s Son, Jesus Christ.

This Christmas, celebrate God’s perfect gift of grace with Chuck Swindoll and the Stonebriar Community Church Choir and Orchestra’s Gloria in Excelsis Deo holiday concert. When life gets overwhelming, this presentation of special messages and beautiful music will remind you that the King of Glory stepped into humanity to give you abundant life . . . now!

Written by

Wise Counsel for Troubled Times

Charting a course through the stormy, uncertain seas of our lives can be difficult. It’s impossible without a reliable compass, an accurate set of maps, and some sturdy examples of faith and courage.

In this series, Chuck Swindoll introduces you to many of these courageous and stronghearted individuals. With each message, Chuck invites you to look closely into their lives and discover how to carefully apply to your life what they learned about overcoming challenges. As you fasten yourself to the mainstay of God’s Word, you, too, will stay upright through whatever storms come your way.

Message 1: Sustaining Enthusiasm

Sermon Overview The longer a believer spends engaged in church activities and spiritual routines, the more they are stalked by a dangerous, invisible thief: overexposure. Charles R. Swindoll warns that becoming overly familiar with spiritual truth can lead to boredom, monotony, and a cynical loss of awe for God. Using the ancient Israelites in 1 Corinthians 10 as a warning, he shows how an entire generation experienced daily miracles like manna and the parting of the sea, yet died in the wilderness because they became jaded and craved evil things. Turning to Joshua 1, Swindoll outlines God’s four directives for sustaining enthusiasm: be strong and courageous within, carefully obey all instructions without deviating, continually study and meditate on the Word, and remember that God is always with you.

Key Facts

  • The Danger of Overexposure: Without intentional effort, believers and ministry leaders can easily lose their excitement for the glory of God, reducing the Bible to a mere manual and ministry to a joyless obligation.
  • A Tragic Warning: The Israelites were all guided by the cloud, baptized into Moses, and fed spiritual food, yet God was not pleased with most of them because they lost their enthusiasm and turned to idolatry and grumbling.
  • Nothing Great Without Enthusiasm: Quoting Ralph Waldo Emerson, Swindoll emphasizes that enthusiasm is essential for achieving anything great; believers must give their all and leave the final results to God.

Scripture References

  • Joshua 1:1–9
  • 1 Corinthians 10:1–11

Message 2: Overcoming Failure

Sermon Overview Two of the most difficult words a person can say are “I failed”. Whether in a marriage, an academic course, a business, or ministry, failure brings immense shame and self-disappointment. Swindoll looks at the agonizing failure of the Apostle Peter, who boldly boasted he would die for Jesus, only to deny even knowing Him three times just hours later under the pressure of a hostile courtyard. When the rooster crowed and Jesus looked at him, Peter left weeping bitterly, completely crushed by his actions. However, Swindoll provides profound hope by tracing Peter’s restoration at the Sea of Galilee, proving that failure need not disable a believer forever.

Key Facts

  • Satan’s Sifting: Satan relentlessly plans for a believer’s failure, actively looking to “sift” them like wheat by targeting their unique weaknesses.
  • The Danger of Smugness: Believers must never arrogantly say “never” to sin; pride goes before destruction, and everyone is only one stumble away from a fall.
  • Signs of Recovery: True recovery from failure involves a sudden jolt of awareness, a heartbreaking rush of anguish and tears, a quiet acknowledgment of God’s full forgiveness, and a sensitive realization of renewed purpose.

Scripture References

  • Luke 22:31–34, 54–62
  • Mark 16:5–7
  • John 21:1–17
  • 1 Corinthians 10:6–12

Message 3: Never Quitting

Sermon Overview Living in a post-Christian culture requires enormous determination, because society will constantly urge believers to back off, compromise, and fall in line. In his final letter from a dark Roman dungeon, the Apostle Paul issues a passionate charge to his young protégé, Timothy, to never quit. Paul accurately describes the “last days” as savage and menacing times filled with people who love themselves and reject the truth. In response, Paul commands Timothy to stand firm and faithfully preach the Word of God, correcting and rebuking without apology. Swindoll emphasizes that faithful biblical exposition is the necessary “strong medicine” for a sick society, warning against churches that substitute truth for “warm and fuzzy” entertainment.

Key Facts

  • Savage Times: The Greek word for “difficult” times in 2 Timothy 3:1 was used to describe fierce, wild animals and raging storms, perfectly depicting the menacing, depraved culture believers face today.
  • The Pastoral Job Description: Pastors are strictly commanded to preach the word, be prepared in all seasons, correct, rebuke, and encourage their congregations with immense patience.
  • No Retirement from Life: Though society encourages people to “retire” and withdraw in their later years, believers are called to stay engaged and run the race fully until the very end.

Scripture References

  • 2 Timothy 3:1–5, 10–14
  • 2 Timothy 4:1–5
  • 2 Corinthians 11:23–28

Message 4: Thinking Biblically

Sermon Overview The Christian life is not a playground; it is a battleground where the primary fight is over the control of the mind. Swindoll explains that if the enemy can seize how a person thinks, he can dictate how they live. Using Romans 12, the message challenges believers to stop copying the behaviors, customs, and politically correct molds of the modern world. Instead, Christians must allow God’s Word to radically transform their thinking. To illustrate this, Swindoll highlights the heroic life of King Josiah. Despite inheriting a dark, idolatrous nation, Josiah sought the Lord as a teenager, purged the nation of idols, and led a massive spiritual reformation the moment he heard the newly discovered Book of the Law read aloud.

Key Facts

  • The World’s Mold: The “world” (or age) consists of the floating mass of opinions, speculations, and immoral atmospheres that constantly attempt to squeeze believers into conformity.
  • A Tender Heart: Unlike his wicked father and grandfather, Josiah cultivated a tender heart; when he finally heard the Scriptures at age 26, he tore his clothes in despair over the nation’s failure and immediately instituted change.
  • How to Proceed: Learning to think biblically requires maintaining an open Bible daily, cultivating a tender heart that invites truth to impact daily decisions, and possessing a willingness to actually change and break ungodly traditions.

Scripture References

  • Romans 12:1–2
  • 2 Corinthians 10:3–5
  • 2 Chronicles 34:1–33
  • 2 Kings 22:1

Message 5: Demonstrating Wisdom

Sermon Overview Rash reactions driven by anger and emotion never lead to anything good, often leaving a trail of regret and destruction. Swindoll unpacks a tense, dramatic narrative from 1 Samuel 25 involving David, a wealthy fool named Nabal, and Nabal’s sensible wife, Abigail. When Nabal selfishly insults David’s men, David loses his temper and straps on his sword, intending to slaughter Nabal’s entire household. Disaster is averted only by the swift, tactical wisdom of Abigail, who intercepts David with a generous peace offering and a brilliant, calming speech. Her wisdom stops David from ruining his future legacy with an act of murderous revenge.

Key Facts

  • The Folly of Insensitivity: Nabal, whose name literally means “fool,” represents the insensitive, ill-tempered spouse whose selfish actions bring unnecessary danger and heartache to their entire family.
  • Wisdom in Action: Rather than arguing with her foolish husband, Abigail wasted no time; she gathered provisions, rode out to meet an angry David, and humbly took the blame to de-escalate the crisis.
  • Intrinsic Motivation: Abigail wisely appealed to David’s long-term calling, reminding him that God would soon make him king and he did not want the permanent stain of needless bloodshed on his conscience.

Scripture References

  • 1 Samuel 25:1–42
  • Proverbs 16:7

Message 6: Taking Responsibility

Sermon Overview One of the most damaging concepts in modern Christianity is the false division between “secular” and “sacred” work. Swindoll dismantles this dichotomy by looking at the versatile life of Nehemiah. God is the creator and owner of all things, meaning every legitimate occupation is a sacred, God-given calling. Nehemiah faithfully wore three distinct hats for God’s glory: a servant’s hat as the trusted cupbearer to the Persian King, a hard hat as the construction supervisor who miraculously rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls in 52 days, and a politician’s hat as the governor who reformed the city’s corruption. Believers are challenged to be “all there” and live their specific occupational callings to the hilt.

Key Facts

  • The Role of the Cupbearer: Nehemiah began as an officer who tasted the king’s wine to prevent assassination, a position of massive influence, trust, and intimacy with the most powerful ruler in the world.
  • No Secular Jobs: Whether a person is a banker, pilot, teacher, or homemaker, they are a representative of the Lord Jesus Christ; their daily work is a spiritual assignment meant to be done willingly for God.
  • Intrinsic Motivation: Nehemiah was not driven by money, personal glory, or public applause; he was driven by the deep internal conviction that the gracious hand of God was upon him to accomplish the task.

Scripture References

  • Nehemiah 1:1–4
  • Nehemiah 2:1–18
  • Nehemiah 6:15
  • Nehemiah 8:9
  • Colossians 3:17, 23

Message 7: Standing Alone

Sermon Overview It is incredibly easy to feel insignificant in a crowded, busy world, but God’s historical plans consistently hinge on the power of one individual. Exploring the dramatic story of Queen Esther, Swindoll highlights the ultimate test of character: standing alone when no one else can do what you are positioned to do. When a Hitler-like official named Haman passes an irrevocable decree to slaughter every Jew in Persia, Esther is safely hidden in the royal palace. However, her cousin Mordecai challenges her to realize she may have been made queen for “such a time as this”. Risking her own execution, Esther bravely steps out of the safe harbor of theory to break the law and plead for her people’s survival.

Key Facts

  • A Book Without God’s Name: Esther is the only book in the Bible where God’s name is completely absent, yet His sovereign, invisible hand of providence is clearly seen orchestrating every detail.
  • “Such a Time as This”: Mordecai warned Esther that her palace walls would not save her, urging her to recognize that her entire life trajectory was likely designed by God for this exact heroic moment.
  • The Courage to Act: Esther requested three days of fasting from her people before delivering her famous resolution: “I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die”.

Scripture References

  • Esther 3:8–13
  • Esther 4:1–17

Message 8: Respecting Authority

Sermon Overview In a modern era dominated by an arrogant spirit of entitlement, society constantly urges people to question and rebel against authority. Swindoll delivers strong, counter-cultural advice: believers are called to humbly respect authority, even when those in charge are unfair. Looking at the life of David, the message traces his years as a fugitive fleeing from the insanely jealous, murderous King Saul. Even when David found Saul completely vulnerable in a cave at En-gedi, David refused to draw his sword, stating he would never harm the Lord’s anointed. David’s profound restraint illustrates that believers must refuse to fight in the flesh and leave all vengeance to the righteous anger of God.

Key Facts

  • The Burden of Jealousy: Though David was a loyal, successful teenage military commander, King Saul was so intimidated by David’s popularity that he became obsessed with murdering him.
  • Sparing the Enemy: Urged by his men to kill Saul in the cave, David only cut off a piece of Saul’s robe, and his conscience immediately bothered him for even showing that minor disrespect to the king.
  • Vengeance Belongs to God: The biblical mandate is to never take personal revenge; believers are commanded to leave room for God’s justice and to overcome evil by doing good to their enemies.

Scripture References

  • 1 Samuel 24:1–22
  • Romans 12:19–21
  • Romans 13:1–5
  • Proverbs 16:7

Message 9: Cultivating Humility

Sermon Overview True humility is a desperately rare commodity in a world driven by ego, resume-building, and self-promotion. Swindoll identifies John the Baptist as the ultimate biblical model of an authentic, humble leader. Though John was a sensation who drew massive crowds to the Judean wilderness, he never manipulated his authority or sought the spotlight. When people asked if he was the Messiah, he bluntly said “no,” identifying himself merely as a voice preparing the way for Christ. As Jesus’s ministry grew and John’s disciples began leaving him, John rejoiced like a best man at a wedding, establishing the ultimate life motto for every believer: “He must increase, I must decrease”.

Key Facts

  • Acting “Medium”: Humility is not denying your gifts or walking around acting worthless (false humility); it is simply not calling attention to yourself, a concept Swindoll summarizes as choosing to “act medium”.
  • A Contented Witness: John performed no miracles and wore bizarre clothing, yet he perfectly fulfilled his calling to be the “lamp” pointing people to the true “Light” of the world.
  • The Cure for Envy: Envy thrives in the church and corporate world, but true humility finds genuine joy in the success and promotion of others, happily stepping into the shadows so God gets the glory.

Scripture References

  • John 1:6–8, 19–37
  • John 3:25–30
  • Matthew 11:11

Message 10: Studying Hard

Sermon Overview Ignorance of the Bible breeds superstition, fear, and instability; conversely, digging deeply into the Scriptures produces immense joy, peace, and spiritual strength. Following 70 years of exile in Babylon, the Jewish people returned to Jerusalem severely disconnected from their spiritual heritage. Swindoll focuses on Ezra, a scribe and priest who devoted his life to carefully studying, obeying, and teaching the Word of God. In Nehemiah 8, Ezra stands on a wooden platform at the Water Gate and reads the scroll from morning until noon. Because Ezra and the Levites clearly explained the meaning of the text, the people finally understood God’s truth, resulting in a magnificent celebration and national revival.

Key Facts

  • Three Return Companies: The Jews returned from Babylon in three waves: Zerubbabel returned to rebuild the temple, Ezra returned to reestablish the worship and the Law, and Nehemiah returned to rebuild the city wall.
  • Ezra’s Determination: Ezra’s profound success was rooted in a conscious, disciplined decision to study the Scriptures, apply them to his own life, and accurately teach them to a generation that had forgotten them.
  • The Blueprint for Exposition: True biblical preaching involves reading the literal text of the Bible, clearly explaining its meaning, and helping the congregation understand how to practically apply it to their lives.

Scripture References

  • Ezra 7:1–10
  • Nehemiah 8:1–14
  • 2 Chronicles 36:14–20

Message 11: Modeling Integrity

Sermon Overview Integrity is an essential character quality defined as wholeness, soundness, and being entirely the same in private as you are in public. Swindoll looks at the life of Daniel, an eighty-year-old statesman who maintained a flawless record of integrity through several corrupt Babylonian and Persian regimes. When King Darius planned to promote Daniel to oversee the entire empire, jealous officials tried to find dirt on him but found absolutely nothing. Consequently, they manipulated the king into signing an irrevocable law making prayer illegal. Unfazed, Daniel went home and prayed to God just as he always had, fully accepting the terrifying consequence of the lions’ den.

Key Facts

  • Authenticity, Not Perfection: Being a person of integrity does not mean a person never sins; rather, it means they are completely authentic, quick to admit wrong, and live without the dualistic hypocrisy of a double life.
  • Consistency Under Pressure: Daniel did not panic or suddenly start praying because of the new law; his integrity was proven by his steady, unbroken habit of praying and giving thanks to God three times a day “as usual”.
  • The Rewards of Character: Living a life of integrity brings the continued relief of a clear conscience, personal intimacy with God, and the priceless inheritance of a lingering legacy for your children.

Scripture References

  • Daniel 6:1–28
  • Proverbs 10:9
  • Proverbs 20:6–7

Message 12: Extending Grace

Sermon Overview We have all been unfairly wounded, and the natural human instinct is to nurse bitterness and plot revenge. However, Swindoll teaches that the grinding feelings of resentment are only resolved by extending grace. To illustrate this, he examines the life of Joseph, who endured 13 years of horrific victimization: he was hated by his brothers, thrown into a pit, sold into slavery, falsely accused of rape, and forgotten in an Egyptian dungeon. Decades later, as the powerful Prime Minister of Egypt, Joseph possessed absolute authority over the brothers who ruined his youth. Instead of executing them, Joseph wept, forgave them, and provided for them, recognizing that God had sovereignly orchestrated the entire ordeal.

Key Facts

  • Grace in Action: Grace means doing what is best and right when you have been done wrong, and responding with a forgiving attitude even if the guilty party never genuinely repents.
  • Refusing to Play God: When Joseph’s brothers cowered in fear, Joseph extended grace by asking, “Am I God?” He recognized that taking vengeance and punishing others is a role reserved strictly for the Lord.
  • The Divine Perspective: Joseph was freed from bitterness because he grasped the overarching sovereignty of God, telling his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it all for good”.

Scripture References

  • Genesis 37:2
  • Genesis 39:1–23
  • Genesis 50:14–21
  • Romans 8:28

Message 13: Encouraging Others

Sermon Overview Encouraging others is not merely a nice idea; according to the New Testament, it is a strict, vital command for every believer. Swindoll introduces a man named Joseph from Cyprus, who was so exceptional at lifting others up that the apostles officially nicknamed him Barnabas, meaning “Son of Encouragement”. Barnabas’s life provides a practical blueprint for how believers can inject courage into a hurting world. He modeled financial generosity by selling his land to provide for persecuted Christians, and he bravely risked his reputation to endorse the newly converted (and highly feared) Saul of Tarsus. Ultimately, Barnabas demonstrated the profound grace of giving a “second chance” when he stubbornly refused to give up on the young defector, John Mark.

Key Facts

  • The Power of Endorsement: When the apostles in Jerusalem rightfully feared Saul because of his violent past, Barnabas spontaneously stepped forward, took Saul by the arm, and vouched for the authenticity of his conversion.
  • Unselfish Teamwork: When a revival broke out in Antioch, Barnabas did not hoard the spotlight; he traveled 100 miles to Tarsus to find Saul, bringing him back so they could share the ministry load together.
  • Second Chance Encouragement: Paul and Barnabas had a massive, sharp disagreement over John Mark, who had previously deserted them. While Paul refused to travel with a quitter, Barnabas’s commitment to encouraging the fallen ultimately salvaged Mark’s ministry.

Scripture References

  • Acts 4:32–37
  • Acts 9:19–28
  • Acts 11:19–26
  • Acts 15:36–41
  • Hebrews 10:23–25
  • Job 4:3–4

Written by

Gaining a Fresh Perspective

Grudges grind friendships to a halt. Bitterness turns marriages into marathons of misery. Misunderstandings build walls of resentment between neighbors who erect high fences. Even churches aren’t immune to the painful results of hurtful words and unmet expectations.

Are you stuck in the disappointment of a broken relationship? Desperate to break free from the chains of bitterness and anger? A fresh perspective is the place to start, and that’s God’s specialty. His Word provides the hope and help you need.

In Gaining a Fresh Perspective: Seeing Relationships through New Eyes, Chuck Swindoll uses the lens of Scripture to offer you a hope-filled outlook on your relationships. The Lord is ready to restore and renew! Discover how His grace can provide genuine healing and lasting transformation.


Relationships can be the source of our greatest joy or our deepest misery. Grudges, bitterness, and unmet expectations often build walls of resentment that seem impossible to scale. In this series, Gaining a Fresh Perspective: Seeing Relationships through New Eyes, Chuck Swindoll explores how the lens of Scripture can transform our outlook. By applying God’s curative power of forgiveness, we can break free from the chains of anger and move toward a life characterized by restoration and renewal.

Message 1: Looking Back: Clearing Away the Trash We Regret

Sermon Summary Many of us live with a “rearview mirror” filled with regret over the messes we’ve made in our own lives or the wreckage of broken relationships. In this message, Chuck uncovers wisdom from the book of Joel, showing how God’s tender mercies are activated through our grief and repentance. We learn that “clearing the trash” of the past is a necessary step before we can move forward into the healing God has planned for our future.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Necessity of Repentance: Understanding how a heart turned toward God opens the door to mercy.
  • Facing the Truth: The courage required to address the failures and regrets that we often try to hide.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • The Book of Joel: A study of God’s restoration following a season of national and personal brokenness.

Message 2: Looking Back: Finding Healing Through Forgiveness

Sermon Summary Forgiveness is the most powerful curative agent in the human experience, yet it is often the hardest to apply. This message focuses on the practical and spiritual dimensions of releasing others from the debts they owe us. By looking back at our injuries through the lens of God’s grace, we discover that forgiveness isn’t just for the offender—it is the key that unlocks our own prison of bitterness and allows genuine healing to begin.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Curative Power of Grace: How letting go of grudges restores spiritual and emotional health.
  • Lasting Transformation: Why forgiveness is the foundation for renewed friendships and marriages.

Primary Scripture References

  • Ephesians 4:31–32: The call to let go of bitterness and forgive as God in Christ forgave us.
  • Colossians 3:13: Bearing with one another and maintaining a heart of forgiveness.

Common Questions about Relationship Healing (FAQ)

What is the first step toward fixing a broken relationship? The first step is often gaining a “fresh perspective” by looking at the situation through God’s eyes rather than our own hurt feelings. This involves an honest evaluation of our own part in the conflict and a willingness to prioritize reconciliation over being “right.”

Does forgiving someone mean I have to trust them again immediately? No. Forgiveness and trust are two different things. Forgiveness is a gift of grace given freely to the offender to release your own bitterness. Trust is a quality that must be rebuilt over time through consistent, faithful behavior.

How do I handle a regret that keeps coming back to haunt me? Scripture tells us to “clear away the trash” by confessing it to God and accepting His complete forgiveness. When regrets resurface, remind yourself that God’s mercy is new every morning and that in Christ, your past does not define your future.

What if the other person doesn’t want to reconcile? As believers, we are called to live at peace with everyone so far as it depends on us (Romans 12:18). You can offer forgiveness and extend an olive branch, but you are not responsible for the other person’s response. Your healing is found in your obedience to God, regardless of the outcome.

Written by

Meeting God in Familiar Places

A favorite pair of jeans, a home-cooked meal, and a childhood friend: these are just a few familiar things that may bring a smile to your face and fill you with comfort.

Chuck Swindoll unveils new wonders from familiar Bible passages that are too easily forgotten. Become familiar again with your Heavenly Father and rediscover Him in His intimacy, His majesty . . . and His awesomeness.


Just as a favorite pair of jeans or a home-cooked meal brings immediate comfort, certain passages of the Bible feel like “home” to us. Yet, because of their familiarity, we sometimes skim over them, missing the profound majesty they contain. In this series, Chuck Swindoll takes us back to these well-known biblical landmarks. From the green pastures of the Psalms to the grand theological heights of Romans, you are invited to rediscover your Heavenly Father in the places you thought you already knew.

Message 1: God’s Sovereignty in Daniel 4

Sermon Summary Divine sovereignty is a doctrine that often sparks controversy, yet it is meant to provide the ultimate security. Through the dramatic humbling and restoration of King Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4, we see that God rules in the affairs of men. This message clarifies what sovereignty truly means: that God is in control, He is fair, and His purposes will always prevail, even when the world seems chaotic.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Pride of Man: How self-exaltation distances us from God’s perspective.
  • The Supremacy of God: Recognizing that every breath and every kingdom is under His authority.
  • Humility and Restoration: The beautiful result of acknowledging the Most High as Ruler.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Daniel 4: The testimony of Nebuchadnezzar’s transformation from a proud monarch to a humble worshiper.

Message 2: God’s Comfort in Psalm 23

Sermon Summary Perhaps no passage is more familiar than the Shepherd’s Psalm. Yet, in the midst of life’s “darkest valleys,” we need its comfort more than ever. Chuck explores the intimate relationship between the Shepherd and His sheep, reminding us that we lack nothing when we are in His care. We find peace not in the absence of enemies, but in the presence of the One who prepares a table for us in their midst.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Provision and Rest: Learning to lie down in “green pastures” despite the stresses of life.
  • Guidance and Protection: Finding confidence in the Shepherd’s rod and staff.
  • Eternal Security: The promise that goodness and mercy will follow us all our days.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Psalm 23: A timeless declaration of trust in God’s personal care.

Message 3: God’s Love in Romans 8

Sermon Summary Romans 8 is the “Mount Everest” of the New Testament. In this message, we focus on the unbreakable bond of God’s love. Chuck unpacks the truth that for those in Christ, there is no condemnation and, ultimately, no separation. Whether facing hardship, persecution, or internal struggle, we are reminded that we are “more than conquerors” through the One who loved us.

Key Facts & Themes

  • No Condemnation: The freedom of being justified by faith.
  • The Spirit’s Help: How the Holy Spirit intercedes for us in our weakness.
  • Unstoppable Love: The assurance that nothing in all creation can pull us away from God.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Romans 8: A soaring look at the believer’s security and the depth of God’s affection.

Message 4: God’s Peace in Philippians 4

Sermon Summary In a world filled with anxiety, Philippians 4 offers a practical prescription for peace. Chuck examines the discipline of prayer and the “guarding” of our hearts and minds. By choosing to dwell on what is true, honorable, and right, we invite the “God of peace” to be with us, allowing us to experience a calm that surpasses human understanding.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Anxiety vs. Prayer: Trading our worries for thankful requests.
  • The Mental Fortress: How our thought life dictates our emotional stability.
  • Contentment: Learning the secret of being satisfied in every circumstance through Christ.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Philippians 4: Paul’s instructions for maintaining joy and peace regardless of external pressures.

Message 5: God’s Blessings in Matthew 5

Sermon Summary The Beatitudes present a standard of “blessedness” that is completely upside-down compared to the world’s values. Chuck explores Jesus’ opening words in the Sermon on the Mount, showing that true happiness isn’t found in strength or wealth, but in poverty of spirit, mourning, and meekness. These are the qualities of those who belong to the Kingdom of Heaven.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Kingdom Heart: Character traits that align us with God’s priorities.
  • Counter-Cultural Joy: Why the “meek” and “merciful” are truly the ones who are satisfied.
  • Spiritual Appetite: The blessing of hungering and thirsting for righteousness.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Matthew 5: The foundational teachings of Jesus on the character of a believer.

Message 6: God’s Promise in Isaiah 9

Sermon Summary Isaiah 9 contains the magnificent prophecy of the “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Chuck dives into the weight of these titles, showing how Jesus fulfills every promise God made to a people walking in darkness. This message highlights the hope found in a government that rests solely on His shoulders.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Light in the Darkness: The arrival of hope in a weary world.
  • The Fourfold Name: Understanding the multi-faceted nature of the Messiah.
  • An Eternal Kingdom: The certainty of a reign characterized by justice and righteousness.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Isaiah 9: The prophetic announcement of the birth of the Savior.

Message 7: God’s Gift in Luke 2

Sermon Summary The Christmas story is so familiar that we can lose the “wonder” of the incarnation. Chuck revisits the humble surroundings of the manger and the startling announcement to the shepherds. We are reminded that God’s greatest gift didn’t come in a palace, but in a stable, proving that He is accessible to all who seek Him.

Key Facts & Themes

  • The Humility of the Incarnation: God becoming man in the lowliest of circumstances.
  • Good News for All: Why the shepherds were the first to hear the announcement.
  • Glory in the Highest: The angelic response to the birth of the King.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Luke 2: The narrative account of the birth of Jesus Christ.

Message 8: God’s Presence in Joshua 1

Sermon Summary Entering a “new territory” in life requires immense courage. In this final message, we look at God’s charge to Joshua as he took leadership of Israel. The secret to Joshua’s strength wasn’t his own ability, but the promise: “I will be with you.” Chuck encourages us to be strong and courageous by staying grounded in the Word and trusting in God’s constant presence.

Key Facts & Themes

  • Strength and Courage: How to face transition and uncertainty without fear.
  • The Power of the Word: The necessity of meditating on Scripture day and night.
  • The Unfailing Promise: Finding rest in the fact that God will never leave or forsake us.

Primary Scripture Reference

  • Joshua 1: God’s encouragement to a new leader on the verge of the Promised Land.

Common Questions about Familiar Bible Passages (FAQ)

Why should I re-study passages I already know by heart? The Word of God is “living and active.” While the text doesn’t change, you do. As you grow and face new life stages, God often reveals new layers of truth and application in familiar verses that you might have missed when you were younger or in a different season.

How can I make my personal Bible study feel “fresh” again? Try reading a familiar passage in a different translation, or imagine yourself as one of the characters in the narrative. Slowing down to meditate on a single word or phrase—rather than rushing through a chapter—can often open up new insights.

What is the “doctrine of sovereignty” in simple terms? Simply put, it means God is the boss. He has the ultimate authority, power, and wisdom to do what He pleases. While we have free will and choices matter, God is never surprised or thwarted; He is working all things together for His good purposes.

Is it really possible to have peace when everything is going wrong? According to Philippians 4, yes. This “surpassing peace” isn’t a feeling you manufacture; it is a gift from God that “guards” your mind. It comes through a deliberate choice to pray and to focus your thoughts on God’s character rather than your problems.

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How Great Is Our God!

Everything—where we pin our hopes, how we raise our children, what we do in times of joy or sorrow, everything we aspire to, think, and believe—boils down to how we answer one question: Who is God?

In this series, Chuck Swindoll reminds us of the holiness and majesty of God the Father, the humility and self-sacrificing love of the Son, and the ministry and counsel only the Holy Spirit can provide. These messages provide an anchor of biblical hope in God for believers in times of both tumult and peace.

Every aspect of our lives—how we face trials, how we celebrate joys, and how we view our purpose—is determined by how we answer one central question: Who is God? In this 12-part theological survey, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the majestic attributes of the Trinity. From the holiness and glory of God the Father to the sacrificial love of the Son and the active ministry of the Holy Spirit, these messages provide a firm biblical anchor. This series is designed to reacquaint believers with the magnitude of the God they serve, offering hope and stability in an ever-changing world.

Message 1: The Glory of God

  • Summary: This message explores the “shekinah” glory of God—the visible manifestation of His presence. It challenges the believer to move beyond a small, manageable view of God and instead stand in awe of His overwhelming majesty and weightiness.
  • Key Facts: God’s glory is the sum total of all His attributes; it is the “weight” of His character that demands our reverence.
  • Scripture: Psalm 19:1; Exodus 33:18–23; Isaiah 6:1–3.

Message 2: The Holiness of God

  • Summary: Holiness is the attribute that sets God apart from everything else. This overview discusses the absolute purity of God and why His moral perfection is the foundation for all other divine traits.
  • Key Facts: To be holy means to be “separate” or “cut off” from sin; God’s holiness provides the standard for human righteousness.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:1–8; 1 Peter 1:15–16; Habakkuk 1:13.

Message 3: The Love of God

  • Summary: Unlike human love, which is often conditional, God’s love is an extension of His essence. This message focuses on the “agape” love of God—a choice-driven, sacrificial affection that reached out to us while we were still sinners.
  • Key Facts: God does not just “have” love; He is love. His love is eternal, unchanging, and independent of the object being loved.
  • Scripture: 1 John 4:7–19; Romans 5:8; Ephesians 3:17–19.

Message 4: The Grace of God

  • Summary: Grace is often defined as “unmerited favor,” but this message dives deeper into how God’s grace provides what we cannot earn and do not deserve. It contrasts the Law with the freedom found in the gift of God.
  • Key Facts: Grace is the answer to human helplessness; it is the bridge between a holy God and a sinful humanity.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 2:1–10; Titus 2:11–14; Romans 3:24.

Message 5: The Cup That He Drank

  • Summary: Focusing on the agony of Gethsemane, this message examines the “cup” of divine wrath that Jesus agreed to drink. It highlights the immense cost of our redemption and the submission of the Son to the Father’s will.
  • Key Facts: The “cup” represents the concentrated judgment of God against sin; Jesus’ choice to drink it was the ultimate act of obedience.
  • Scripture: Matthew 26:36–46; Luke 22:39–46; Isaiah 51:17.

Message 6: The Servant who Came

  • Summary: This overview looks at the “Kenosis”—the self-emptying of Christ. Though He was God, He took on the form of a bondservant, modeling the humility that should characterize every follower of Christ.
  • Key Facts: True greatness in God’s kingdom is measured by service, not status; Jesus is the “Suffering Servant” prophesied in the Old Testament.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:5–11; Isaiah 53:1–12; Mark 10:45.

Message 7: The Lamb That Was Slaughtered

  • Summary: Drawing from the Passover tradition, this message explains why Jesus is the “Lamb of God.” It details the necessity of a blood sacrifice for the atonement of sins and the finality of Christ’s work on the cross.
  • Key Facts: Sacrifice is the only way to satisfy divine justice; Jesus is the perfect, spotless fulfillment of the Old Testament sacrificial system.
  • Scripture: John 1:29; Revelation 5:6–14; 1 Peter 1:18–20.

Message 8: The Cross We Proclaim

  • Summary: The cross is the central symbol of the Christian faith. This message discusses why the “message of the cross” is foolishness to the world but the power of God to those who are being saved.
  • Key Facts: The cross is where God’s justice and God’s love met; it is the only basis for a believer’s boast.
  • Scripture: 1 Corinthians 1:18–25; Galatians 6:14; Colossians 2:13–15.

Message 9: Getting Reacquainted with the Spirit of Power

  • Summary: Many Christians live as though the Holy Spirit is a vague force rather than a Person. This message introduces the Spirit as our Comforter, Advocate, and the source of supernatural power for daily living.
  • Key Facts: The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity, equal in essence to the Father and the Son; He is the “Helper” promised by Jesus.
  • Scripture: John 14:16–17; John 16:7–15; Acts 1:8.

Message 10: What Does Being ”Filled with the Spirit” Mean?

  • Summary: This overview clarifies the difference between the “baptism” of the Spirit and the “filling” of the Spirit. It focuses on the command to be continually under the influence and control of the Holy Spirit.
  • Key Facts: Being filled with the Spirit is a command to be obeyed, not just a feeling to be sought; it results in the “fruit of the Spirit” in a believer’s life.
  • Scripture: Ephesians 5:18–21; Galatians 5:22–23; Colossians 3:16.

Message 11: Those Unidentified Inner Promptings

  • Summary: How do we distinguish the leading of the Holy Spirit from our own thoughts or emotions? This message provides biblical filters to identify the quiet, inner promptings of God in our decision-making process.
  • Key Facts: The Spirit will never lead in a direction contrary to the Word of God; inner peace and biblical alignment are key indicators of the Spirit’s leading.
  • Scripture: Romans 8:14–16; 1 Kings 19:11–13; Psalm 32:8.

Message 12: The Spirit’s Most Significant Mission

  • Summary: The series concludes by emphasizing that the Holy Spirit’s primary mission is to glorify Jesus Christ. He does this by convicting the world of sin and empowering the church to bear witness to the Gospel.
  • Key Facts: The Spirit does not draw attention to Himself but always points toward the Son; His mission is to make the presence of Jesus real to the believer.
  • Scripture: John 16:13–14; Acts 4:31; 2 Corinthians 3:17–18.

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Fullness of Grace

You will be irresistibly moved to worship and wonder as you listen to Fullness of Grace, featuring the incredible choir and orchestra of Stonebriar Community Church with guest soloists and Chuck Swindoll’s message, “It’s Christmas . . . So?” Sing along with the Christ-centered hymns. Reflect on the humble beginnings of our Savior. And rejoice that the Son of God is also Immanuel—the greatest gift we could hope for.


Christmas is a season of profound “worship and wonder.” In this special holiday broadcast, you are invited to a “front-row seat” in the sanctuary of Stonebriar Community Church for a Christmas concert featuring a full choir, orchestra, and guest soloists. Central to the broadcast is a challenging message from Pastor Chuck Swindoll that cuts through the holiday noise to ask a vital question: “It’s Christmas… So?” This series is designed to move the listener beyond sentimentality toward a deep rejoicing in the reality of Immanuel—God with us.

1. It’s Christmas . . . So? (Christmas Message)

  • Overview: Pastor Chuck delivers a compelling message in the midst of a worship concert. He reflects on the humble beginnings of the Savior and asks the listener to consider the personal implications of the Incarnation.
  • Key Fact: The “Fullness of Grace” is found in the person of Jesus Christ, who is the greatest gift humanity could ever receive.
  • Scripture: John 1:14, 16 – “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us… For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace.”

Common Questions: Fullness of Grace

1. What is the main theme of the “Fullness of Grace” concert? The theme is a “Journey through Grace.” Through a combination of Christ-centered hymns and biblical narrative, the program seeks to move listeners to reflect on the preparation for, and the arrival of, the Messiah. It focuses on the “wonder” of God entering human history.

2. What does Pastor Chuck mean by the question, “It’s Christmas… So?” In his message, Chuck challenges the audience to move beyond the traditional “routines” of Christmas. The “So?” is a call to application: Because the Son of God became man, how should our lives change? How should our perspective on suffering, grace, and eternity be altered by the fact that Immanuel has come?

3. Is this series primarily music or a sermon? It is a unique “blend.” While the concert features high-quality orchestral and choral music, the message by Pastor Chuck is the theological anchor of the broadcast. It is an “immersion experience” where the music prepares the heart for the truth of the Word.

4. How does this series define “Immanuel”? Immanuel is defined as “The Greatest Gift.” It refers to the fact that God did not remain distant, but became “God with us.” The series emphasizes that this presence provides a hope and a peace that the world cannot offer, especially during the holiday season.

5. How can I use this series to “re-center” my heart during Christmas? The broadcast encourages active participation—singing along with the hymns and reflecting on the “humble beginnings” of Jesus. By focusing on the “fullness of grace” found in Christ rather than the commercialism of the season, the listener is invited to experience a renewed sense of gratitude and worship.

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Divine Love and Grace

Every Christmas we hear the familiar story. There’s a virgin, a baby, a bewildered husband, a dirty stable, a few shepherds, and that’s all there is to it. Right?

Wrong!

Christmas represents the most magnificent message that’s ever been told. The baby born in the stable was not just any baby. He is God in the flesh—the very revelation of love and grace.

Don’t forget the real significance of the season. Join Chuck Swindoll as he reminds us that the incarnation of Christ demonstrates God’s infinite love and unconditional grace.


The familiar scenes of Christmas—the manger, the shepherds, and the stable—often mask the truly radical nature of the season. In this two-part series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the deeper theological meaning behind the birth of Jesus. Christmas is not just a sweet story; it is the most magnificent message ever told: God in the flesh, entering human history to reveal the full extent of His infinite love and unconditional grace.

1. God’s Astonishing Love (Philippians 2:5–11)

  • Overview: Addresses the “Why?” of the Incarnation. Chuck explores the compelling force of love that moved Jesus to leave His position in heaven, break into history, and embrace a path that led through rejection to the cross.
  • Key Fact: God’s love is astonishing because it is proactive; He moved toward us when we were at our worst.
  • Scripture: Philippians 2:7 – “…but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.”

2. Christ’s Audacious Grace (John 1:14–17)

  • Overview: Focuses on the “fullness” of grace revealed in the person of Jesus. Chuck explains how the arrival of Christ signaled a new era where the Law met its fulfillment in the personified grace of the Son.
  • Key Fact: Grace is “audacious” because it offers a clean slate and a relationship with God to those who have no claim to it.
  • Scripture: John 1:14 – “And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

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What Every Believer Must Never Forget!

Times were hard—very hard. A corrupt government and a covetous judiciary made life miserable for all living in a nation that was once strong and stable. Idolatry was rampant, leaving the land with no spiritual vitality. What is worse, the prophets, who would normally guide the people toward righteousness, were weak and shamelessly compromising.

Most of these horrid conditions could be traced back to the failure of King Uzziah, who had once been a strong and competent leader. His extraordinary fame and success resulted in pride and arrogance. In the backwash of all this, a young, very-concerned prophet named Isaiah turned to the Lord to gain understanding. What happened to that young prophet leaves us with four truths we must never forget.


In this powerful study of Isaiah chapter 6, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores a pivotal moment in the life of the prophet Isaiah. Set against a backdrop of national corruption, political instability, and spiritual apathy, Isaiah’s vision of the Lord provides four foundational truths that act as an anchor for every believer. This message serves as a reminder that when earthly leaders fail and culture crumbles, God remains sovereign, holy, and in absolute control.

1. God and God Alone (Isaiah 6:1–9a)

  • Overview: Isaiah’s vision occurs in the year King Uzziah died—a time of great national mourning and uncertainty. In the midst of this vacuum of earthly leadership, Isaiah sees the true King seated on His throne.
  • Key Fact: The death of an earthly leader often provides the “clear air” necessary for us to see the Lord in His rightful place of authority.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:1 – “In the year of King Uzziah’s death I saw the Lord sitting on a throne, lofty and exalted, with the train of His robe filling the temple.”

2. The Holiness of the Lord (Isaiah 6:2–4)

  • Overview: Describes the seraphim and their cry of “Holy, Holy, Holy.” This repetition in Hebrew denotes the superlative degree, emphasizing God’s total set-apartness from sin and His absolute perfection.
  • Key Fact: God’s holiness is His defining attribute; it is the “atmosphere” of heaven and the standard to which His people are called.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:3 – “And one called out to another and said, ‘Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of hosts, the whole earth is full of His glory.'”

3. The Conviction of Sin (Isaiah 6:5)

  • Overview: When confronted with God’s holiness, Isaiah does not feel empowered or “good about himself”; he feels “undone” and deeply convicted of his own impurity.
  • Key Fact: True worship begins with a realistic assessment of our own unworthiness in the presence of a holy God.
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:5 – “Woe is me, for I am ruined! Because I am a man of unclean lips… for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord of hosts.”

4. The Provision of Grace and Call to Service (Isaiah 6:6–9a)

  • Overview: God provides the solution to Isaiah’s guilt through the coal from the altar, leading to Isaiah’s immediate and voluntary response to God’s call.
  • Key Fact: God does not just convict; He cleanses. And once cleansed, the believer is ready to say, “Here am I. Send me!”
  • Scripture: Isaiah 6:8 – “Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, ‘Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?’ Then I said, ‘Here am I. Send me!'”

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Biblical Parenting

Parenting is a privilege . . . and yet, it sometimes feels like a struggle. Whether persevering through an infant's late-night cries or grappling with a teenager's bad attitude, all parents need help. This series will throw a lifeline to moms and dads as Chuck Swindoll teaches biblical and practical principles for godly parenting.

In this practical and heart-to-heart series, Pastor Chuck Swindoll explores the high calling of raising children. Moving beyond rigid rules, Chuck focuses on the “spirit” of the home, emphasizing the importance of understanding each child’s unique, God-given “bent,” breaking generational cycles of unhealthy behavior, and fostering an environment of grace and delight.

Message 1: Discovering Your Child and Yourself

  • Overview: Parenting begins with self-awareness. This message explores how a parent’s own temperament and history impact their children, and the importance of “studying” each child to understand their unique personality.
  • Key Fact: Effective parenting requires a “discovery” mindset—treating each child as a unique puzzle to be solved rather than a project to be managed.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 139:13–16

Message 2: The Bents in Your Baby

  • Overview: A deep dive into the most famous parenting verse in the Bible. Chuck explains that “the way he should go” refers to a child’s natural inclinations and God-given design.
  • Key Fact: Training a child according to their “bent” means aligning our discipline and encouragement with their natural strengths rather than trying to force them into a mold.
  • Scripture Reference: Proverbs 22:6

Message 3: Straightening Granddad’s Bent

  • Overview: This message addresses the reality of generational patterns. Chuck discusses how to identify and “straighten” the negative habits or sins that have been passed down through family lines.
  • Key Fact: Breaking a family cycle requires an intentional, biblical intervention to prevent the “sins of the fathers” from affecting the next generation.
  • Scripture Reference: Exodus 34:6–7

Message 4: Unpacking Our ”Ancestral Baggage”

  • Overview: Every parent brings “luggage” from their own upbringing into their new home. Chuck provides a roadmap for unpacking and discarding the emotional and spiritual baggage that hinders healthy parenting.
  • Key Fact: The first step toward parenting freedom is identifying which of your reactions are rooted in your past rather than your child’s current behavior.
  • Scripture Reference: Ezekiel 18:14–17

Message 5: Shaping the Will with Wisdom

  • Overview: Chuck explores the delicate balance between discipline and spirit. This message focuses on how to shape a child’s will through consistent, wise discipline without crushing their spirit.
  • Key Fact: Biblical discipline is a proactive investment in a child’s future character, not a reactive vent for a parent’s frustration.
  • Scripture Reference: Proverbs 19:18; Proverbs 13:24

Message 6: Delighting in Your Children

  • Overview: Parenting should not be a drudgery. Chuck encourages parents to recapture the joy of family life by learning to truly “delight” in the gift of their children.
  • Key Fact: A child’s sense of security is deeply tied to the visible delight and approval they see in their parents’ eyes.
  • Scripture Reference: Psalm 127:3–5

Message 7: Delightful Memories Your Children Won’t Forget

  • Overview: This message emphasizes the importance of legacy. Chuck discusses how to intentionally build “memorials of delight” through traditions, laughter, and shared experiences.
  • Key Fact: Traditions and positive memories serve as emotional “anchors” that keep children grounded in their faith and family identity as they grow.
  • Scripture Reference: Deuteronomy 6:6–9

Message 8: When the Fun Stops for Parents

  • Overview: An encouraging word for parents facing the “tough stuff”—seasons of rebellion, exhaustion, or disappointment where the joy of parenting seems to have vanished.
  • Key Fact: Perseverance in parenting is a spiritual discipline; God provides special grace for the seasons when parenting feels more like a battle than a blessing.
  • Scripture Reference: Galatians 6:9; Lamentations 3:22–23

Message 9: Resolving Those Parent-Child Conflicts

  • Overview: Conflict is inevitable, but it doesn’t have to be destructive. Chuck outlines a biblical process for resolving tension and restoring harmony between parents and children.
  • Key Fact: Reconciliation is more important than “winning” an argument; humble parents who can admit they are wrong model the Gospel for their children.
  • Scripture Reference: Ephesians 6:1–4

Message 10: Accepting Reproof from Those Who Love Us

  • Overview: A message on the humility of a parent. Chuck discusses the value of being open to correction and feedback from spouses, mentors, and even our own children.
  • Key Fact: A teachable parent is much more likely to raise a teachable child; modeling humility is the most effective way to teach it.
  • Scripture Reference: Proverbs 15:31–32

Message 11: Suggestions for Parenting Grown-Up Kids

  • Overview: As children reach adulthood, the parenting role must shift from “coach” to “consultant.” Chuck provides wisdom for navigating this complex and often difficult transition.
  • Key Fact: Influence with adult children is based on relationship and respect, not on the authority or control that characterized the childhood years.
  • Scripture Reference: Proverbs 17:6

Message 12: What to Do When You’ve Blown It

  • Overview: The series concludes with a message of hope for parents who feel they have failed. Chuck explains that it is never too late to seek forgiveness and begin a process of restoration.
  • Key Fact: God is the God of the “second chance,” and His grace is sufficient to cover our parenting mistakes and heal family rifts.
  • Scripture Reference: 1 John 1:9; Joel 2:25–26

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