Larry and I moved to Fullerton, CA in 1978 with the high school ministry of Cru (Campus Crusade for Christ). We didn’t know anyone in the area, but we’d been listening to Charles R. Swindoll on Insight for Living. We were delighted to learn his church, First Evangelical Free Church of Fullerton, was nearby.
We made it our home church. Both of our children were born during our years there, and Chuck dedicated each of them. The first Sunday we visited, their minister of music was absent, so Chuck led the music and preached.
We’re so grateful to God for giving us Chuck Swindoll as our pastor as we began our marriage and family. His emphasis on authenticity and grace helped form the heart of what would later become Lighthouse Ministries: a beacon of hope, strengthening our most important relationships—with ourselves, our loved ones, and with God.
Instead of a normal post, today I am sharing a link to an interview with Chuck that tells of his painful childhood and showcases the humility that has marked his life and ministry. I’m reminded of 2 Cor. 12:9 (NASB):
“And He has said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness.’ Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me.”
Please take the time to listen to this great man of God.
Click here: How Pastor Chuck Has Clung to Hope
Blessings,
Sometimes I link to these great sites:
#MondayLinkUp #InstaEncouragements, #Let’sHaveCoffee, #Grace&Truth, #SweetTea&Friends
I loved his program and it was one of the first I watched when I was first born again. A lovely man.
His winsome spirit shines through his teaching.
Debbie, thank you so much for sharing Chuck’s story. As you know we started E Free shortly after Chuck came. We sat under him for 15 years. So much of what he said brought back memories but we hadn’t heard the story of his childhood. We are so grateful that you shared it with us. Love Meade and Bob
We were there only seven years. We are so grateful for that time. I’d never heard the story of his childhood either. So incredibly moving.
That was wonderful. Thanks so much for sharing it with us.
What an amazing testimony to this wonderful man. Thanks for sharing his story, Debbie.
I was very moved by his story.
Debbie, I’ve always been a fan of Chuck Swindoll. His ability to weave insight and humor and true to life examples into deep, Godly teaching has been such a gift.
Me too, Linda. I never realized all the pain this dear man had suffered.