Thoughts For The Journey

For many years I fought to overcome things in my life that I knew were displeasing to God (I hated and hate the parts of me that aren't like Jesus). At times I felt so defeated. It wasn't that I didn't love God, on the contrary, it was that my efforts were misdirected. 

In no way am I talking about being flippant with sin, but, had I spent more time drawing near to the One who loves me and has all power to break the hold of every sin, then maybe freedom would have come much sooner.

Alan Redpath said it so beautifully when he said, "Give up the struggle and the fight; relax in the omnipotence of the Lord Jesus; look up into His lovely face and as you behold Him, He will transform you into His likeness. You do the beholding--He does the transforming."

I have found this to be so true. Things that I once struggled with are now gone. I don't know when they left. I can't write a book about it. I only know that my desire to be close to God became greater than the desire to sin against Him. He did it and continues to do it and I am forever grateful. The journey continues.

By Tom Zurowski

A Word From Greg Laurie

"Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution."

— 2 Timothy 3:12

Persecution shows itself in many ways. It can show itself in the martyrdom of a believer. It has been estimated that since the early church was formed to this present day, millions and millions of Christians have been martyred.

But persecution can show itself in other ways as well. Persecution of Christians has not stopped. It will continue on. In fact, the Bible says, "Yes, and all who desire to live godly in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3:12). Now that is a promise we rarely claim. As believers, we lay hold of promises of God's provision and of God's protection. But when is the last time you heard someone pray, "Now Lord, You promised in Your Word that if I live godly, I will be persecuted. So bring it on, Lord"? We don't pray that, because who wants to be persecuted? There is no enjoyment in that. But if you are living a godly life, then persecution will come.

So how should we react when persecution comes our way? Jesus said, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake. Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you" (Matthew 5:10–12).

Why are we persecuted? Because righteousness is confrontational. I'm not necessarily speaking of verbal confrontation. Just your presence—just the fact that you are a Christian—appears on the radar screens of other people. You can bother them a bit. So remember, as you simply live for the Lord, persecution will come.

Holy Spirit You Are Welcome Here

I'm Not Just Giving You My Sin

Ordination of Elders

On July 29th, The Chapel will be ordaining elders. As many of you know, The Chapel was established with this in mind. My (Tom Zurowski) heart's desire has always been to be a team (plurality) led church with Christ as the Head and elders as overseers and servants of the Chapel family. Please join us on July 29th at 10:00 am for this very special day in the life of this church. We would love to have you join us!

 From left to right: John Follman, Kerry Matheny, Larry Meece and Tom Zurowski

Holy by Matt Redman

Take Time To Worship