God’s Power or Our Power

God’s Power or Our Power
Saturday, November 30, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.”

Ephesians 6:10–12

Almost anyone who has accomplished anything great in their lives is tempted to think that they are responsible for it. Nebuchadnezzar, absolute ruler of the mightiest empire in the world fell victim to this temptation. “The king spake, and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honour of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30). Sometimes that tendency is the result of us thinking that our accomplishments are greater than they really are. No matter the cause, it is always wrong.

We cannot overcome the enemy in our strength. He is a far greater and more powerful foe than we can deal with. But we do not have to rely on our own strength. We have the power of God available to us. The thing that keeps many people from living in that power is their pride. When we claim credit for ourselves, we forfeit God’s power and are left with our own. We must learn the lessons of humility if we want true and lasting victories. D. L. Moody said, “Moses spent forty years thinking he was somebody; forty years learning he was nobody; and forty years discovering what God can do with a nobody.” God never needs our help to get anything done. A word from Him could make or break entire worlds. He lets us be part of His plan, but we need Him, not the reverse.
Today's Growth Principle:
Without the strength and power of God in our lives, we are helpless to accomplish anything of value.

The Path to Victory

CURRENT RADIO SERIES Going the Distance CURRENT TV SERIES A Life That Pleases God “Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” --John 14:21 When I was a child, we had a plot of land right behind our house that we turned into a baseball field. All the neighborhood kids would play there every afternoon before dinner. But one day, the electric company came in and turned part of that piece of land into a power relay station. Now there was still enough room on that land for us to play baseball. But all around the lot, they put up huge signs that said, “No Trespassing.” How could the electric company do that to us? We deserved to have that field, they stole it away, and now, they wouldn’t even share it with us! Though it took time, I realize now the power company put up those signs not because they didn’t like us, but to keep us from being electrocuted. And that’s exactly why God gives us rules as well – to keep us from being harmed by sin. Sin is more dangerous than any electric shock. Yet many become bitter at God for the rules He gives, not knowing they’re really there to keep them safe. So when God says “No,” remember it’s for your best, and trust He’s looking out for your ultimate joy! PURSUE OBEDIENCE TO GOD, KNOWING IT WILL KEEP YOU FROM HARM AND ULTIMATELY GIVE YOU JOY! The Path to Victory Friday, November 29, 2019 by Dr. Paul Chappell “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.” 1 Peter 5:6–9 The world tells us to lift ourselves up, make sure that we are noticed, and insist that we receive credit for whatever we do. God tells us to humble ourselves, prefer others ahead of ourselves, and focus on His approval rather than that of people. One of these methods works, and the other does not. It is no surprise that it is God’s way that works, but it remains hard for us to humble ourselves. It goes against our nature. F. B. Meyer said, “I used to think that God’s gifts were on shelves one above the other; and that the taller we grew in Christian character the easier we could reach them. I now find that God’s gifts are on shelves one beneath the other; and it is not a question of growing taller but of stooping lower; and that we have to go down, always down, to get His best gifts.” No matter how difficult we may find the process of humility, there is no substitute for God’s power in our lives, and that power is never given to the proud. “But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble” (James 4:6). One of the crucial aspects of humility is a clear recognition of how great God is. When we see a glimpse of His glory and power, it helps us recognize that without Him we cannot accomplish anything—that we have nothing of which to be proud. Today's Growth Principle: Pride renders us vulnerable to the attacks of Satan and places us on the path of defeat.

Why gratitude is good for your mind, body and soul

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Like many American families today, my family is gathering around the dinner table to celebrate Thanksgiving. Before the meal begins, each family member will go one by one and share something he or she is thankful for in their life. Obviously, expressing gratitude is the whole point of the holiday, but many people nowadays see this American tradition as an obstacle between them and the turkey and gravy. Others completely ignore the gratitude part of the day and are instead interested in the football game or the 65” 4K TV they plan to wrestle for on Black Friday. Still others feel like they have nothing to be thankful for – for them, 2019, with its ups and downs, felt like a punch in the gut. I believe that, no matter what you’re going through, there is always a reason to be thankful. But not only that – being thankful might just be exactly what you need to do if you’re going through a tough time. Because gratitude is good for your mind, body and soul. For example, researchers have found that having a grateful attitude can help strengthen someone’s immune system, lower blood pressure, improve sleep and motivate people to exercise regularly, which itself carries a host of health benefits. Practicing gratitude also has been associated with better quality of life for individuals who struggle with stress, anxiety and depression. “Grateful people report higher levels of positive emotions, life satisfaction, vitality, optimism and lower levels of depression and stress,” write Robert A. Emmons, Phd., and Michael E. McCullough, Phd., who have done research on the role gratitude plays in a person’s attitude and well-being. Emmons, who is described as “the world’s leading scientific expert on gratitude,” also writes on how gratitude can improve a person’s ability to cope with stress. “There’s a number of studies showing that in the face of serious trauma, adversity, and suffering, if people have a grateful disposition, they’ll recover more quickly. I believe gratitude gives people a perspective from which they can interpret negative life events and help them guard against post-traumatic stress and lasting anxiety,” wrote Emmons in an article published in UC Berkeley Science Center’s Greater Good Magazine. I imagine Emmons’ words could be helpful to many people. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, in 2017 an estimated 17.3 million adults in America experienced a major depressive episode. Even more alarming, suicide — often associated with mental illnesses such as depression — is the second leading cause of death for young adults and even teenagers, according to the Center for Disease Control. Having myself gone through a strong bout of depression after a surgery to remove a cancerous tumor 10 years ago, I can tell you this illness can be crippling. Depression makes you feel like you are dead inside. Some of the classic symptoms are a sense of hopelessness and loneliness, loss of appetite and insomnia. I knew I was in trouble when I couldn’t eat and when I began to lose sleep. It took me well over a year to come out of that dark valley. I know for some people, this is a burden they carry their entire lives. During that time, I sought several forms of treatment for depression, including professional counseling and exercise, and surrounded myself with people I could confide in and who could encourage me. One thing that was recommended to me by a counselor was keeping a gratitude journal. Every day, I would write three things I was thankful for. This simple exercise lifts your sight out of the darkness and helps you see the truth around you: there are people who love and care for you, there’s purpose in life and God has not given up on you yet. Gratitude therapy is now recognized as one effective way to treat anxiety, stress and depression, and more research is now being conducted to understand the relationship between gratitude and mental and physical health. But the truth is, this is not a new concept. The Apostle Paul prescribed something very similar over 2,000 years ago: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus,” Paul wrote. (Philippians 4:6-7, NIV) What amazes me is that Paul wrote these words while he was in a prison in Rome. He knew that his faith was bigger than his circumstances, and this allowed him to pray to God with thanksgiving. Now, I realize that depression does not go away by practicing a single exercise or saying one prayer, and in fact, there is no single cure for it. If you are experiencing depression, the first thing you should do is seek professional help. Still, I would encourage you to use today as an opportunity to practice gratitude. Think of a few things you can thank God for in your life. You may be surprised by how big of a difference it can make. What Goes with Thanksgiving Thursday, November 28, 2019 by Dr. Paul Chappell “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.” Colossians 3:12–15 Many of us will spend Thanksgiving with family or friends, and most of us will probably eat more than we ought to. If we sat down to the table and the only thing on it was a turkey or a ham, we would surely think something was missing. There are things that traditionally go with the main course—potatoes, dressing, green beans, corn, gravy, bread—that are family favorites. We would not have the same meal if things that go with the main dish were not present. In the same way, thanksgiving and peace go together. The Jamieson, Fausset and Brown Commentary says, “Thanksgiving gives effect to prayer, and frees from anxious carefulness by making all God’s dealings matter for praise, not merely for resignation, much less murmuring. Peace is the companion of thanksgiving.” Paul was in a jail cell in Rome when he wrote, “Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:6–7). Our circumstances do not dictate either our gratitude or our peace. Those are totally up to us. We can choose in any situation to be grateful and thankful for God’s work in our lives, or we can complain and gripe and become bitter. But if we take that approach, we are forfeiting God’s peace. Today's Growth Principle: Being properly thankful for all God has done produces peace that cannot be taken away.

Living in the Love of God

Living in the Love of God
Wednesday, November 27, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us.”
1 John 4:16–19

Love is not just something God does; love is something God is. He is the very personification and definition of love. He is the standard by which all other love is measured, and compared to which all other love falls short. We are commanded by God to love each other, and we are commanded by God to love Him. Often we struggle with both of these.

It is hard for us to love other people because they are too much like us—selfish, proud, greedy, and unkind. Yet God loves us in spite of our failures. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another” (John 13:34). It is hard for us to love God because we are too little like Him. We do not spend enough time in His Word and in prayer to allow His Spirit to kindle a divine measure of love in our hearts.  Dr. John Rice wrote:

What words can I find to tell Jesus I love Him,
Because He first loved me;
Because of my ransom He paid with such suffering,
Upon the cursed tree.
In the morning, and at noontime and when come evening shadows,
I love Thee my Jesus, I love Thee my King;
In rejoicing and in sorrow, in lightness and burden,
I love Thee my Saviour and Lord.

Today's Growth Principle:
Every day and every part of our lives should be marked by our love for our God.

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I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. --Romans 12:1 As a pastor, people will often come to me when they’re facing the fires of life. I’m talking about those who are sick, people with diseases, men and women with heartaches and family burdens. But do you know one thing I’ve noticed? There’s a glorious difference in how a faithful Christian suffers. I visited a man in the hospital who had a very aggressive form of cancer. He had been through surgery after surgery trying to get ahead of it. I walked in, not knowing what to expect him to say. But he told me, “Pastor, I’m grateful for this chance to be a stronger and more powerful witness for Jesus Christ.” It’s that kind of faith that will get us through suffering. It’s the kind of faith that says, “God, take my life and do what You want with it as long as it brings You glory.” That’s a scary prayer to pray. But ironically, it’s also the safest because you’re never in a more secure place than when you’ve completely surrendered to Christ. Is anything keeping you from praying that prayer today? Is it anxiety or fear of losing control? God is much more competent than anyone to protect you. So surrender fully to Him today, knowing that even when you suffer, He loves you and will keep you safe under His wings! SURRENDER FULLY FOR GOD’S GLORY, AND TRUST THAT NO MATTER WHAT YOU FACE, HE’LL NEVER LEAVE YOU UNGUARDED.

Jews don't believe in Jesus, right?

A Life That Pleases God

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For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed to us. --Romans 8:18 There are times in life when we just have a hard time understanding “why.” I think about a friend I have who lost a child in a tragic accident. I think about those who are sick and hungry around the world with little hope for relief. Yet others whom we see as less innocent seem to prosper. And it’s in those times when many people wonder “why” that they can often feel disheartened or disillusioned with their faith. “If God is good,” they ask, “then why would He allow an innocent person to suffer like that?” This is a reasonable question provoked by very real emotions. And the truth is, there’s an answer – but it may not be the one many would like to hear. The world is fallen. And because of that, there will be suffering until Christ returns. Children will still die. People will go hungry. And often, others who seem less deserving will prosper. The world will be wrought with injustice until the Justifier returns to bring back order. So what can we do? Well, we persevere. We allow suffering and hardship to create a thirst in us for the day when all suffering will end. We keep an eye on the sky waiting for Christ to usher in His Kingdom on earth. We hold on… because help is coming. HOLD ON THROUGH SUFFERING, AND LONG FOR THE DAY WHEN CHRIST BRINGS AN END TO ALL PAIN!

We Can Trust God’s Plan
Tuesday, November 26, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle, lest they come near unto thee. Many sorrows shall be to the wicked: but he that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about. Be glad in the Lord, and rejoice, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart.”

Psalm 82:8–11

Because our human wisdom and understanding is limited, even our best we attempt to plan for the future is flawed. Our most carefully laid plans are subject to failure. In contrast, God already knows the end, not only of the path we are on, but of every path we could have taken that would have changed the outcome. If we are willing to listen to His Word and the Holy Spirit who lives within us, He offers guidance and blessings. One of the most difficult things for us to do is to trust God’s timing. When we do not see Him at work, we are tempted to doubt that He knows or cares about us, but He always does.

Andrew Murray wrote, “He knows when we are spiritually ready to receive the blessing to our profit and His glory. Waiting in the sunshine of His love is what will ripen the soul for His blessing. Waiting under the cloud of trial that breaks in showers of blessings, is as needful. Be assured that if God waits longer than you could wish, it is only to make the blessing doubly precious. God waited 4000 years, till the fullness of time, ere He sent His Son. Our times are in His hands; He will avenge His elect speedily; He will make haste for our help, and not delay one hour too long.”

Today's Growth Principle:
Since God knows the way ahead and we do not, we must trust His guidance and provision.

Second Chance =)

Are You Ready?

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How can a young man keep his way pure?             By guarding it according to your word. --Psalm 119:9 I read not long ago that only 49 percent of college freshmen in America have a thought-out philosophy of life. That’s nearly half of the young people entering our universities today who don’t have a direction. They’re simply living day-to-day and not giving a thought as to what’s really important. But the problem is not the lack of direction among students – it’s the lack of direction among Christians. The ambiguous nature of many churchgoers’ beliefs has trickled down to the next generation, so much so that these young people have nothing they’re really living for. They’re simply mimicking what they’ve observed. As believers, we have to know what we believe. We can’t go around preaching platitudes and morals, all the while being ignorant of the Word of God. We have to build our convictions on what God has told us, and we have to commit ourselves fully to the cause of Christ so we’ll stand the tests of faith that come our way. The next generation’s best hope of gaining a godly perspective in life is this generation’s willingness to show them their purpose. So instead of shaking your head at the younger generation today, live for Christ and teach them to do the same. Give them a holy purpose to pursue! GIVE THE NEXT GENERATION A GODLY PURPOSE IN LIFE BY PURSUING GODLINESS YOURSELF AND PASSING IT ON. Today's Devotion Are You Ready? Monday, November 25, 2019 by Dr. Paul Chappell “So he brought down the people unto the water: and the LORD said unto Gideon, Every one that lappeth of the water with his tongue, as a dog lappeth, him shalt thou set by himself; likewise every one that boweth down upon his knees to drink. And the number of them that lapped, putting their hand to their mouth, were three hundred men: but all the rest of the people bowed down upon their knees to drink water.” Judges 7:5–6 When Gideon sent out the call for men to fight against the Midianites, thousands showed up. God wanted a smaller army so there would not be any question about who really won the victory. First Gideon announced that all those who were scared should go home. While that reduced the number somewhat, God said it was still too many. So Gideon led the men to water and watched how they got their drink. Only those who stayed alert, taking water from their hands so they could keep looking around were selected for the final army. Those three hundred who were prepared and ready before the battle started were the ones God chose to bring about His victory. Every single day of the Christian life is a battle. We have a dedicated and committed enemy who is looking for any opportunity he can to defeat and destroy us. And there are few things more dangerous we can do than to fail to prepare for that conflict. We do not have to wonder if temptations and challenges will come because we know they will. We just have to ensure that we are ready for them when they do. The Scottish preacher James Hastings wrote, “How carefully David prepared to meet Goliath! He chose five smooth stones out of the brook. He did not assume that one would be lying by his hand when he needed it. Never go to the Lord’s work with meager preparation.” Today's Growth Principle: Only when we prepare for spiritual battle before it happens are we ready for the victory.

Why Flattery Works

Why Flattery Works
Sunday, November 24, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“Then these presidents and princes assembled together to the king, and said thus unto him, King Darius, live for ever. All the presidents of the kingdom, the governors, and the princes, the counsellors, and the captains, have consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not.”

Daniel 6:6–8

When Daniel’s enemies tried to find an avenue of attack against him, they could not find anywhere in his duties where Daniel was cutting corners or doing anything wrong. So they decided to attack him for his faith. The courtiers went to King Darius and flattered him into signing a law outlawing praying to anyone else, human or divine. This sounded good to the king, because it placed him on a very high level indeed. And that is why flattery works—because it tells us what we want to hear.

This is far from an ancient phenomenon. According to a study conducted by researchers affiliated with the College Boards, the company that manages the SAT testing process, in 2016, fully 47 percent of US high school seniors graduated with an A average. The trend is referred to as “grade inflation” and it reflects the desire people have to be told they are doing well whether that reflects reality or not. The problem, of course, is that the rise in grades being handed out is not matched by an increase in learning and excellence in education. Flattery is a dangerous weapon that can be subtly used against us to lower our own standards. If we allow ourselves to be convinced that everything is fine, we will not make needed changes.

Today's Growth Principle:
Be willing to listen to the truth, even if it is not what you would prefer to hear.

“They Ceased Not”

“They Ceased Not”
Saturday, November 23, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“And to him they agreed: and when they had called the apostles, and beaten them, they commanded that they should not speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name. And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.”

Acts 5:40–42

According to church history, Polycarp, who pastored the church in Smyrna, was personally discipled by the Apostle John. After a long, faithful ministry, he was arrested during a period of Roman persecution of the church. When he was told to renounce Christ, Polycarp responded, “Eighty and six years have I served Him, and He never did me any injury. How then can I blaspheme my King and my Saviour?” In light of his advanced age, he was told he would go free if he would say, “Away with the atheists” which was how the Romans regarded the Christians who refused to worship Caesar. Instead, Polycarp pointed at the crowd and said, “Away with the atheists.” As a result, he was burned at the stake.

Nothing should be able to shake our commitment to Jesus Christ. He is our Saviour, and His sacrifice for us is worthy of any sacrifice we might be called on to make for Him. While most of us do not face the beatings, imprisonment and even death faced by the members of the early church, and many Christians around the world today, we are still tempted to be silent when we should speak. Someone referred to “Secret Service” Christians—those who are undercover and never let anyone know that they are followers of Jesus. There is great shame in allowing fear or hardship to keep us from sharing the gospel with those around us. May we be like the early disciples and never cease to speak about Jesus.

Today's Growth Principle:
Our love for God should be so strong that nothing can stop us from doing what He has commanded.

Seeking Manna on the Sabbath

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Keep your heart with all vigilance,             for from it flow the springs of life. --Proverbs 4:23 Some people always look for a reason to be unhappy. They walk into a beautiful meadow, and pass all the flowers just to find the cow manure in the corner so they can complain! In my years of ministry, I’ve seen many people just like that. But if I had the choice, I’d definitely prefer to be with people who look for the positive. I talk with pastors all the time whose churches are resisting them for no real reason. These pastors want to do some great things but they’re just crushed because of the pessimistic spirit of their church. And even outside the church in the workforce, people would much rather be behind an optimist than someone with a negative attitude. Optimistic teams are much more productive! Look at today’s verse: “Keep your heart…” That means we’re to keep our mind, will, and emotions pointed in a positive direction so that even when setbacks occur, we know the victory will be ours. And when we do that, we’ll experience a flow of joy in our lives. Keep your heart; don’t lose hope; stay optimistic. The victory is already yours. So live like it! HAVE A POSITIVE OUTLOOK ON LIFE BECAUSE THE VICTORY IS ALREADY YOURS IN JESUS CHRIST! Seeking Manna on the Sabbath Friday, November 22, 2019 by Dr. Paul Chappell “And it came to pass, that there went out some of the people on the seventh day for to gather, and they found none. And the LORD said unto Moses, How long refuse ye to keep my commandments and my laws? See, for that the LORD hath given you the sabbath, therefore he giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. So the people rested on the seventh day.” Exodus 16:27–30 When the children of Israel were in the wilderness, providing food was a challenge beyond human solution. So God provided manna each morning. When Moses told them this was going to happen, he gave strict instructions that they were not to leave any overnight. Those who disregarded his teaching found that their manna had worms and stunk the next morning. So they learned that manna didn’t last. But on the sixth day, Moses told them to gather a double portion so that they would not have to work on the Sabbath day. Yet some, remembering the stench of leftover manna, went out to look for it anyhow, only to find nothing. In our day there are many people who place the lessons of their experience ahead of what God has said. While experience is a valuable teacher, it does not supersede Scripture. When what we think we have learned conflicts with what God has declared, He is right and we are wrong. With our limited understanding, it is easy for us to take the wrong lessons from our experiences, and rather than being guided rightly, we are led astray. The people who went out to seek manna on the Sabbath knew about the worms and the stench. The problem was a problem of faith. They were not willing to accept what God said and act on it. Today's Growth Principle: We should never elevate our experience or opinions over God’s Word, but we should evaluate our experience and opinions by God’s Word.

Going the Distance

Look Up
Thursday, November 21, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth. He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand.”

Psalm 121:1–5

The story goes that John Wesley was walking past a farm with a friend who was greatly troubled. As the friend poured out his struggles, Wesley listened with compassion. When he was done speaking, Wesley pointed to the cows in a nearby field and asked this question, “Why do the cows look over the stone fence?” After a moment his friend replied, “Because they can’t see through it.” Wesley then said, “So when you cannot see through your troubles, look over them. Look up to God.”

All of us know the feeling of being overwhelmed with trouble. David wrote, “Save me, O God; for the waters are come in unto my soul” (Psalm 69:1). In those moments when it seems like our burdens are more than we can bear and there is no way out, we must remember that God is still with us. He never takes a holiday. He never oversleeps. He never misses a plea for help. And when we cry out for Him, He always answers.

God knows what we need even before we ask Him. When we pray, we are not informing God of our situation. Instead, we are pouring out our hearts, asking Him to do what only He can do. God does not always work the way we prefer or the way we think He should. But God does always work what is best. We can confidently rest in His goodness and love for us, and look to Him in help without wondering if He will hear. God can be trusted in every situation.

Today's Growth Principle:
God never leaves or forsakes us, and we can always count on Him in times of trouble.

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First, I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is proclaimed in all the world. --Romans 1:8 A little boy went outside one day to fly a kite. Never having flown a kite before, he had obvious doubts. But his father assured him that all was well, and the kite would go up as planned. As the boy unraveled the string and watched the kite go up, he was heard to say, “I knew it would fly. My daddy said it would!” As I think about the people who’ve impacted my life, I notice that every one of them had an unshakable faith in their Heavenly Daddy. While they often didn’t know or understand what exactly what might lay ahead, they trusted Him at every turn. That’s exactly what the apostle Paul treasured as well. Notice in today’s passage that the first thing he does is to thank God for the faith of the Roman Christians. Now this wasn’t just an initial faith that trusted in Christ. It was a faith that took risks – a famous faith. That’s what Paul prized… their faith. Some churches are famous for their preachers. Others are famous for their buildings, for their programs, or whatever. But rare is the church that is famous for its enduring faith. Be famous for yours and you’ll inspire others in theirs. AN ENDURING FAITH IS THE MOST IMPORTANT TRAIT YOU CAN HAVE. ENDURE IN YOUR FAITH AS A WATCHING WORLD LOOKS ON.

The Things That Last

PowerPoint Today - Daily Devotional with Pastor Jack Graham

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Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,
            but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.

--Proverbs 10:9

There was a man who bought a beautiful Labrador retriever and loved showing him off to the neighbors. But one day, he looked out the back door and his beautiful dog had the neighbor’s pet rabbit in his mouth. He didn’t know what to do, so he gently pried the dog’s mouth open and pulled out the rabbit. But it was too late. The rabbit was dead.

So he had a brilliant idea. He took the rabbit’s corpse into the house and he washed off all the dirt. He then got his hairdryer and dried the rabbit off and fluffed him up real nice. At dark, he climbed over his neighbor’s fence, found the rabbit cage, and gently placed the little bunny inside.

The man was relieved. That is, until the next morning when his neighbor came over and told him, “We got a real sicky in this neighborhood! Three days ago my rabbit died, so I buried him in the backyard. Somebody dug the rabbit up, cleaned him off, and put him back in his cage!”

Deceit never pays off. In fact, it just might get you into more trouble when all the facts are made known. So live honestly. Be truthful in all your dealings. When you do, you’ll have a clear conscience and be fully confident in your integrity.

BE TRUTHFUL IN YOUR DEALINGS WITH OTHERS SO YOU CAN LIVE WITH A CLEAR CONSCIENCE.

Wednesday, November 20, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection at the last day. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live: And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die. Believest thou this?”

John 11:23–26

Though George Frederic Watts is little remembered today, at one time he was a leading painter and sculptor in England. At the Tate Gallery in London you can still see his painting “Sic Transit Gloria Mundi.” The Latin phrase means “Thus passes the glory of the world.” The painting depicts a body laid out for burial. The accessories around the room show a man of wealth and accomplishment. But all that he had done and acquired was now at an end. On the wall behind the funeral bier is this slogan: “What I spent I had. What I saved I lost. What I gave I have.”

Every material thing that we posses is fleeting. It may last for decades or even centuries, but it will pass away. All of the awards and plaques and ribbons and certificates that note our accomplishments will perish. Yet too often it is the fleeting things to which we give our greatest focus. We allow the things of this world to overshadow the things of the next, keeping us from doing the things that we should.

Paul wrote, “If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth” (Colossians 3:1–2). A life spent for the eternal may be little noted by men, but it will be seen by God. And He will reward all those who faithfully serve Him with an eye on eternity.

Today's Growth Principle:
God is calling us to invest our talent, time, and resources in the things that matter for eternity.

The Things God Uses

PowerPoint Today - Daily Devotional with Pastor Jack Graham

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Going the Distance

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A Life That Pleases God



There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are Christ's, then you are Abraham's offspring, heirs according to promise.  

--Galatians 3:28-29

In 1948, Billy Graham was preaching in a tent in Hollywood, California. It was his first large crusade, and it catapulted him to national and international fame as an evangelist. During the crusade, many people from the area, including those in the entertainment world, came to Christ.

One of those people was a country and western artist by the name of Stuart Hamblen. And when he accepted Christ, his life was completely turned around. As he was sitting in a restaurant one day, and John Wayne, the Duke, walked in and saw him.

John walked over to Stuart and said, “Stuart, I understand you got religion.” And Stuart Hamblen said, “That’s right, Duke.  It is no secret what God can do.” John Wayne said, “Stu, that’s beautiful! You ought to write a song about that.” And so he wrote a song with the lyrics, “It is no secret what God can do. What He’s done for others, He’ll do for you.”

Whether you’re a Hollywood actor or a blue-collar worker, God can do for you what He’s done for others. He shows no favoritism, knows no boundaries, and sees no skin color. Trust Him with your eternity today!

GOD SHOWS NO FAVORITISM AND CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE NO MATTER WHO YOU ARE. TRUST HIM TODAY!

The Things God Uses
Tuesday, November 19, 2019
by Dr. Paul Chappell

“For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are: That no flesh should glory in his presence.”

1 Corinthians 1:26–29

One of the things that makes it so hard for us to humble ourselves so that God can use us is that it goes against our nature. We want to be seen as wise and strong and good and gifted. God wants us to glorify Him. We want to be praised for our accomplishments and receive the acclaim of men. God wants us to praise Him. We want to be lifted up, but that is His place alone. And until we come to grips with this truth, we will not be usable by God. D. L. Moody said, “When we are ready to lay down our strength and our weakness before the Lord, He can use us.”

This requirement for humility is not by accident or coincidence. It is specifically part of God’s plan so that He receives the glory instead of us. Our very nature was created by Him to highlight the awesome wonder of His power. Paul wrote, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us” (2 Corinthians 4:7). God certainly does not need our help. He could accomplish every purpose He has for the rest of time in this world with a single word. He chooses to allow us to be part of His work. And all the glory for that work belongs to Him.

Today's Growth Principle:
The people God uses are the people who have laid aside their own glory to glorify Him.

Giving Our Best

Monday, November 18, 2019

by Dr. Paul Chappell

“And all the congregation of the children of Israel departed from the presence of Moses. And they came, every one whose heart stirred him up, and every one whom his spirit made willing, and they brought the LORD’S offering to the work of the tabernacle of the congregation, and for all his service, and for the holy garments. And they came, both men and women, as many as were willing hearted, and brought bracelets, and earrings, and rings, and tablets, all jewels of gold: and every man that offered offered an offering of gold unto the LORD.”

Exodus 35:20–22

The evangelist Gipsy Smith told the story of a letter he received from a woman in London, asking him to come and speak. She wrote, “I have a meeting I want you to come to speak to. It is only a small meeting and will take nothing out of you.” Smith replied, “I cannot come, and it would be of no use if I did come. If it takes nothing out of me it will do nobody any good.” He concluded by saying, “It is service that costs, and a cheap religion is not worth preaching.”

We are surrounded by a society that is focused on getting and keeping as much as possible. No doubt you’ve seen the popular bumper sticker “He who dies with the most toys wins.” The Christian mindset is directly opposite to that. Rather than trying to hold on to everything we can, we should always be willing to follow the example of Jesus. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9). There is always something else we could do with the time and money that we give to God’s work. Giving our best to Him shows that He is in first place in our hearts.

Today's Growth Principle: 

If we are not willing to make sacrifices, we will never accomplish anything of value for God.