Tag Archives: Pastor Dennis Morales

A Mom’s Kiss

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.” 1 Timothy 1:5

When the great painter Benjamin West was a young boy, he decided to draw a picture of his sister. He got out bottles of ink and succeeded in making a mess. When his mother got home, she said, “What a beautiful picture,” and kissed him. Later in life he said, “That kiss made me a painter.”

Paul writes to his protégé, Timothy, encouraging him as a pastor and faith leader. In doing so, he acknowledges the influence of his grandmother and mother upon his faith. I love how Paul speaks of “sincere faith.” The greatest and lasting influence of Timothy’s mom and grandmother was their sincere faith. It wasn’t forced, it wasn’t showy, it was pure. Timothy saw faith through their hardships, and even through the supposed unbelief of his father. Timothy saw it was real because his mom and grandmother knew Jesus was alive and real in their lives.

If, as a mom, you are feeling underwhelmed with how you have been handling your role, or feeling as if you’re not making a difference, remember your kids are being shaped by the Lord. So, keep praying for them and never give up praying. My mom never stopped praying for me, despite my fierce rebellion, and I am eternally grateful for her diligence. Moms don’t underestimate your influence in this world starting with those whom God has put in your care. Your faithfulness to the Lord, strength, courage, and unconditional love all have good and eternal consequences. You have every reason to be confident because God is using you. (Your impact is greater than you may see right now). Your kiss (of sincere faith) has the potential to make soon to be men and women, men and women of great faith. So, Mama-bears assemble! (A little Marvel humor, sorry). Scripture says “her children will rise up and bless her…” (Proverbs 31).

Calvary Chapel meets at Eastvale Elementary School. Sunday service times are 8:30 and 10:30am. Calvary Chapel Eastvale is moving to the Eastvale Community Center starting July 2, 2023. More details to come. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Stand In Faith

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong.…” 1 Corinthians 16:13

This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul. Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing. The final comments to them is a calling to “stand fast.” This is actually a military term meaning to “hold your position” or “to refuse to be defeated.” There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come. Trials will ensue. Are you going through a time of drought? Are you going through a time of discouragement? Paul says, “stand firm and be brave.” I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today.

I am reminded how “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9). Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king’s court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith. God honored Daniel’s stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel’s courage impressed him. Daniel stood for God and was strong. He didn’t seek man’s approval, but God’s will. If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God’s faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right.

Whatever you find yourself up against today, remember that “one,” with God, is the majority. “If God is for “you” who can stand against you (Romans 8:31). He sees what you don’t see. Faith is trusting and believing God. God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / @ Eastvale Elementary 13031 Orange St, Eastvale (calvaryeastvale.org).

The Easter Message

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still…” Luke 7:14

There is no arguing that one of the most painful occurrences in life is losing a loved one. Jesus came upon a widow who had just lost her only son. According to old Jewish custom, the women would precede a funeral procession because women were believed to have brought death into the world in the line of Eve. This widow would be the first person He would see and He looked at her with compassion (Luke 7:13). It was custom for family members and friends to come and touch the coffin, which would halt the procession, and say a few words of comfort to the survived. Then the procession would continue. According to custom, Jesus stood at the procession and touched the coffin. Jesus tells the woman “do not weep.” He then tells the young man in the coffin to “get up.” “So that he who was dead sat up and began to speak” (Luke 7:15). What Jesus did was unprecedented. Under normal circumstances the funeral procession would have continued. But when Jesus stopped the funeral procession and it never continued! Jesus essentially stopped death in its tracks. This is what Jesus has done for all mankind through the Cross. He has halted the effect of sin and eternal death upon all those who believe in Him (Jn 3:16). Jesus’ death on the Cross defeated sin and He further punctuates this by His Rising from the dead. In this is the Easter message. (1 Corinthians 15:21-22, 55-57)

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am @ Eastvale Elementary School. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org EASTER SERVICES: 8:30AM and 10:30AM.

The Battlefield

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6:11

Sometimes we see visible wars, but many times we don’t see the wars of mental illness, heartbreak, family struggles, tensions at work, or the pain of loss. There is very real daily turmoil. The day we made a commitment to live for God, a very real war began in your life. It’s been said that conversion makes our minds and hearts a battlefield.

Paul the apostle would use pictures of battle to describe the Christians life. To “endure hardship as a good soldier” (2 Timothy 2:3). When it comes to the Christian life, we are constantly involved in the spiritual battle. It is up to us to fight the good fight of faith. So, we need to suit up, as Paul says, and glean from the principles from God’s Word that teach us how to be “more than conquerors in Jesus Christ” (Romans 8:35-37). Paul shares with the Ephesian church about the inevitable spiritual battle and says to put on the full armor of God.

The phrase “put on” is important to understand, because it carries the idea of doing something once and for all. It speaks of something permanent. The full armor of God is not something we put on and then take off again. We are to keep it on all the time. It’s encouraging to know that Jesus and Satan are not equal. As a result, many have been set free through the coming of that “stronger one,” Jesus Himself, who came “to destroy the devil’s work” (1 John 3:8b). Satan has limitations, but Jesus does not. Satan is powerful, but he is not equal to God. God is all powerful, everywhere at once, and all knowing. Satan’s primary attack is on our minds, and he uses our imagination. He knows if he can get to our minds, eventually he can get to our hearts. The place of reason and imagination can take us a step away from decision. It’s where turmoil takes place. Paul knew this. He experienced it (Romans 7:15). Paul says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2-3).

We live in a fallen place, but we can choose to rise above by focusing on Gods truths. We can have bad days, but no doubt about it, you will win the war. We have the tools and the backing for victory. Remember “God is for you” (Psalm 118:6).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

Dayspring

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“…the Dayspring from on high has visited us; To give light to those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, To guide our feet into the way of peace.” Luke 1:78-79

Zechariah was given word that his wife would have a son. His name would be John. John the Baptist would be the one paving the way for the Messiah. Zechariah doubted and was made mute. When John was born, Zechariahs tongue was loosed, and he broke out in song. Prior to this, it was a dark time for Zechariah. We find that sometimes the darkness and difficulty is orchestrated by the Lord. We have valleys and mountaintops all throughout our lives. Most of the time we spend is in the valleys. The place that even Psalm 23 calls “the valley of the shadow of death.” Martin Luther King said that “it is only in darkness that you see the stars.”

I recently experienced one of the most difficult times in my life and ministry. Someone very close to me tragically took his own life. The guilt, darkness, shame, and horror just enveloped me like never before. It was very hard not to feel responsible in some way. I remember reading this verse during this time of darkness. I knew at that moment that the Lord was breaking through. It’s a process, but I can sense the Lord’s presence even in the darkness. The Lord gives His light in the darkness, and it’s also in the darkness that He gives his amazing peace.

If you are struggling, please reach out to somebody. Be candid and real. If you are on the receiving end of a call for help. Do everything you can to stand in the gap and seek help. I am reminded that no matter how thick the darkness, it can’t put out even the tiniest of lights. Scripture says that Jesus is the light of the world. He is the Dayspring, which means He is the first appearance of light or sunrise. God reveals His light through Jesus, who is the Light of heaven who came into the world (John 8:12). A world which is riddled with darkness, pain, sickness, depression, and hate. He experienced the darkness of death when he gave his life (Hebrews 4:15). He died and was buried. But the grave could not hold him. He rose! He conquered the darkness of sin, which is at the core of so much pain in the world. He did it for YOU. Even though we may be in darkness, we could experience His light and His peace. Trust in Him today. He is the Dayspring.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

I Will Be With You

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.

The Devil wants you to concentrate on loneliness, your circumstances, your debt, your failures, and your fears. The Devil loves to also steer our minds toward the things that we can’t control. There will be times of difficulty. There will be times when it seems like things are out of control. A little boy asked his dad how big God was. His dad asked him to look at the plane in the air. His dad asked, “How big is that plane?” His son said, “It is tiny.” When the plane landed on the runway and made its way to the gate, he asked the same question. “How big is the plane now?” His son said, “Its ginormous!” It all depends on perspective. If your trials are magnified over God, He may seem far away. If God is magnified, your trials seem insignificant (John 3:30).

As the true Christmas story goes, when Mary found out she was with the Savior Child, she could have tried to hide out of fear of the law, which declared that she could have been stoned to death. Instead, she proclaims in praise “My soul MAGNIFIES the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior!” (Luke 1:46). Her faith and prayer paved the way to being God’s chosen vessel giving birth to the Messiah. Amid the “waters” of affliction, the “rivers” (currents) of difficulty and the “fire” of trial, God says He will be with you. Thank God – He is with us in our most troubling times. We live in a world where people have free will and can cause us pain. We live in a world where things happen, and we don’t know why. But God is constantly working all things out for His will. He has compassion for us. He loves us. We are His good work and He will be with you.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

Depth

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Let your roots grow down into Him, and let your lives be built on Him. Then your faith will grow strong in the truth you were taught, and you will overflow with thankfulness.” Colossians 2:6-7

There are many advertisements for virtual tours of homes everywhere you turn nowadays. Cyberspace has opened opportunities and a whole new world of virtual experiences to the online and “connected” generation. But one thing we can agree on is that the virtual experience isn’t reality. Its life like, but not the real thing. On TV we see house hunters who get to see and smell the home, we are just spectators. Online you can have a 360-degree view, but with a virtual experience, you don’t see the neighborhood, you don’t hear the neighbors you can’t appreciate the colors or materials up close and personal. The virtual world is a copy of the real world. The virtual world is not a true measure of the world, but a copy, and a superficial one at most. It’s possible as a person in this life to live superficially, and walk a talk a good game, but have no depth.

The Apostle Paul encourages the Colossian church to “let your roots grow down…let your lives be built on Him.” He was calling the church to grow and not be superficial. Paul says don’t live life as though we’re on a virtual tour. We do this when we live as if there is no deeper meaning or purpose to our lives. Sadly, people seem to be completely unaware of the danger of living only on the surface. Paul says don’t measure by the world’s standards. Build on him, grow your faith, and you will overflow with thankfulness. Some measure others by height – that is, how high they climb the ladder of achievement. Someone may be worth a million bucks, but also be empty inside.

Scripture says that it measures a person by his depth. Like a tree, everything depends on its roots. The psalmist said “…his delight is in the law of the Lord… he will be like a tree firmly planted…” (Psalm 1:1-3). The true measure of a person isn’t influence, stature, or success, but the depth of his life. Be sure your foundation is the Lord; Build your house on the rock.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

One Opinion

Pastor Dennis Morales
Pastor Dennis Morales

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven…” Matthew 7:21-23

An umpire named Babe Pinelli once called Babe Ruth out on strikes. When the crowd booed with sharp disapproval at the call, the legendary Ruth turned to the umpire with scorn and said, “There’s 40,000 people here who know that the last pitch was a ball, tomato head.” Suspecting that the umpire would erupt with anger, the coaches and players braced themselves for Ruth’s ejection. However, the cool headed Pinelli replied, “Maybe so, Babe, but mine is the only opinion that counts.”

When it comes to Heaven, God’s opinion is the only one that counts. I believe people tread shaky ground when they assert their own personal philosophy as to how God will judge. These two verses in Matthew chapter 7 are known to be among the “scariest” or thought provoking in Scripture. Toward the end of the Sermon on the Mount (which begins in Matthew 5), Jesus gives a final warning about what true faith is. Jesus warns His disciples that there will be wolves in sheep clothing who preach a good game and can even perform miracles, but they are not His followers. Jesus wasn’t referring to their works, he was referring to their hearts. He knows the thoughts and hearts of men (1 Samuel 16:7).

Christianity without faith is nominal. Nominal Christianity is religion. Nominal Christianity doesn’t get us into His presence for eternity, it’s faith. Scripture says “without faith, it’s impossible to please the Lord” (Hebrews 11:6). Scripture also says it is by “faith that we are made right with God” (Romans 5:1). In Mark 10, Jesus encounters a “Rich Young Ruler.” The Rich Young Ruler said “Lord, how can I have eternal life?” Jesus replied, “sell everything and follow me.” The Ruler went away sad and dejected. Why? Because it would have taken “faith” to give up everything he owned and follow Him. Jesus, our good physician, will always give you the right advise (Mark 2:17).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

Through The Fire

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord your God…”. Isaiah 43:2,3

The kingdom of Judah seemed to fear Babylon’s army and captivity. This verse is comforting because God encourages His people through the most difficult of circumstance and guides them. This is a reminder that He is not just with us in times of blessing, but also in difficulty. Sometimes our trials come in the way of waters, or rivers, or even fire. I’m reminded of the three friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, thrown into the fire because they wouldn’t bow down to an idol. They were thrown into the furnace but didn’t burn. The King who had them sentenced to death looked into the fiery furnace and quickly realized they were not alone. The Lord was with them in the fire. Imagine the conversation they had with the Lord! (Daniel 3:19-25). What is your conversation like when you realize God is in total control of your trial? When you realize that the “flame is NOT consuming you?” Where do you turn when things get difficult? Seek the one who created the waters, rivers, and fire. The One who has dominion over them. When king Hezekiah was sent a threatening letter from the enemy, he took this letter and spread it before the Lord. God told him to go to sleep. And he did! He woke up to a defeated enemy army. (2 Kings 19:35)

We are reminded to “fear not” in Scripture. In fact the Bible mentions “fear not” 365 times. That’s one “fear not” per day. Scripture tells us “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). The emphasis on “all circumstance,” great or small. Whether it be water, river, or fire, the Lord is with you. Won’t you trust Him today?

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am at Eastvale Elementary. Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. Download their app to be up to date on all events. Livestream, YouTube live, and Facebook live is available.

He Will Show You

By Pastor Dennis Morales
“…Leave your country, your family, and your father’s home for a land that I will show you.” – Genesis 12:1
It can be tough after 2 years of pandemic to really gather up any hope for a better year this year, but we make the best of it and hope for a better outcome. Sometimes in God’s economy, He will lead us to take a step of faith not revealing where He’s taking us. Hebrews 11 is known as the hall of faith. We see many people in the Bible leading with steps of faith. They’re ordinary men and women taking great steps of faith. God told Abraham to leave his homeland, and trust where He would lead him and his family. Hebrews 11 gives us insight to Genesis 12. It was by faith that Abraham obeyed when God called him to leave home and go to another land that God would give him as his inheritance. He went without knowing where he was going (Hebrews 11:8). God cares about your future (Jeremiah 29:11). So many people walk fearfully through the days and months because they don’t know who to trust. But rest assured, God “will show you.” God may not map out all the details for you. It would be nice sometimes to know everything now, like who we’ll marry, where you’ll be in 10 years, or what will be our profession. But God “will show you.” He will take you one step at a time. When He takes you through a door, He will direct you to the next one. Abraham was called by God to leave his homeland and go to an unknown place that “God would show him.” God chose Abraham from a place of idols and took him to a place of faith in Him. Put your trust in God (Proverbs 3:5-6), walk by faith, and “He will show you” (Hebrews 11:1). Corrie Ten Boom once said, “Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God.” Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale. Sundays 8:30/10:30am. Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Praise Him

By Pastor Dennis Morales
“Through Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of [our] lips, giving thanks to His name.” Hebrews 13:15
Words are powerful, especially words of praise or thanks. God is honored with our words of praise and thanksgiving. It is easy to praise God when the sun is shining, or when our kids are getting good grades in school, or maybe if we have received a promotion at work. Scripture says that praise is also a sacrifice at times. That’s when things are not too good. When we praise God in the difficulty, it is the praise of sacrifice. When we praise Him, we proclaim our faith in Him.

The Psalmist writes “As for me, I will always have hope. I will praise you more and more (Psalm 71:14). A sacrifice of praise is something that we offer to God — in times of well-being and in times of sorrow. Never allow praise to become a habit of only a celebratory activity. When times are tough, praise has the ability to lighten our hearts and fill us with a sense of possibility, love, and security that can only come from Heaven’s throne. When you are able to praise God in the difficulty, you are trusting what God sees and His provision.

In the late 1800’s George Mueller operated an orphanage that at one time had 1,000 orphans. One morning there was no food to eat, but he called all the children and staff together and prayed thanking God for the provision of food, even though no food was on the table. A few moments later a baker knocked on the door. He told Mr. Muller that God had led him to bake bread the night before and give it to the orphanage. Before the bread was given to the children, a milkman knocked on the door. He said that his milk truck had broken down and he wanted to give the milk to the orphanage. George Muller gave thanks, even when it took faith to do so.

Praise is another word for admiration, and it’s often linked to thanksgiving. Take some time and praise Him today for all He has done. Praise Him because He is able. “Praise Him because He is worthy” (Psalm 145:3).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale. Sundays 8:30/10:30am. Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available. http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Deliberate Confidence

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me…” 2 Timothy 4:17

What gives you confidence?  Watching the “2020” Olympics, I can’t help but to be impressed by the confidence of the athletes who are on one of the biggest stages of their lives.    Families and whole countries are cheering them on and hoping they bring home the gold.   It would seem a lifetime of training, a strong support system, a focused mind, and for some faith, has given these athletes such strong confidence.   Paul the Apostle used athletic metaphors often.  One of his last metaphors he employed was of both a fighter and runner.   As Paul was penned his swan song letter to Timothy, he says “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Timothy 4:7). What is most impressive is that he wrote these words from prison, with few friends left.  In prison for his faith in Christ.  Having few friends willing to stand with him for fear of their own lives, or because of societal shame.  What then gave Paul confidence?  Paul experienced God standing with him in past circumstances and difficulties.  He also knew countless others were spurred to faith in Christ through his chains as his faith was on display (Philippians 1:12).  Many saw the reality of Christ power in his willingness to suffer for Christ.  Oswald Chambers once said, “Faith is deliberate confidence in the character of God whose ways you may not understand at the time.”   Paul found himself at times in chains, being beaten, shipwrecked, and even abandoned, but those were times when he knew the Lord was closest and stood with him (2 Timothy 4:17).  Paul said, “none of these things move me” so to finish his race with joy (Acts 20:24).  Joy in the fact that he would finish his race on this side of Heaven with unwavering faith.  Deliberate confidence is (Faith) that God is always in control.  The Lord stood with Paul as Paul stood with the Lord.  I pray you that you live deliberately confident in the fact that God hears you and is standing with you. 

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale.  Sundays 8:30/10:30am.  Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available.  http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. 

Healing Faith

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“Be of good cheer, daughter, your faith has made you well.” Matthew 9:22

As Jesus would pass through the region, people would crowd him to see Him, hear Him, or seek to be healed by Him.  His reputation preceded Him as a prophet and healer, but little did they know at the time that He was the Christ, who was prophesized about going back to Genesis 3:15.   As Jesus made his way through this particular city, and as crowds were pressing into Him, He says “who touched me?” (Luke 8:45).  One of His disciples says with exuberant confidence “Master everyone is touching you.”  Yes, obviously, many seemed to be touching Him, but Jesus said this was different.  He says, “I perceive power has gone out from Me.” (Luke 8:46).   Something was different about this person’s touch.  When Jesus asked the question “who touched Me,” the crowd dissipated a bit and all who was left was a woman on her knees trembling.   This woman reached out and touched the hem of Jesus’ garment and was healed instantly.   She “reached out” as a last resort after 12 years of seeking physicians and exhausting her every dime.   She was a woman most likely ostracized for her condition as she was considered “unclean.”  Ostracized from family, friends, and being able to worship at the temple.  Jesus then reaches out to her and speaks to her.  He calls her “daughter.”  Something that she needed and possibly longed to hear.  A term of endearment.  Having a stigma follow her for years, she had little contact with people.  He fulfilled her emotional need, but most importantly, He says to her, “your faith has made you well.”   Her greatest need was for a Savior.  Faith was necessary for her healing.  She, in the midst of years of disappointment, believed God could heal her.  Religion or a church cannot heal you, but if you reach out to Jesus and ask Him into your heart, He can touch you spiritually.  Believe He can transform you today.   

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Eastvale Elementary located at 13031 Orange St, Eastvale.  Sundays 8:30/10:30am.  Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live is also available.  http://www.calvaryeastvale.org. 

Strength

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved. Psalm 55:12

We read of Daniel being a fearless follower of God (Daniel 2).  The Babylonians were trying to assimilate the young Jewish males in order to control them.  They knew the young men had strong religious ties, so the Babylonians sought to change the names of the young men, change their worship, and change their diet.  Daniel resisted the king’s delicacies, purposing in his heart not to defile himself and honor God.  Another occasion finds Daniel resisting mandated worship of the king and continued to pray to his God.  Scripture says that “when Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God” (Daniel 6:10).  As a result, Daniel eventually finds himself in the lion’s den, where God delivers him.  You can’t help but to notice a truth in this Biblical account of Daniel.   God delivers Daniel while in the lion’s den.  As we walk with the Lord, we can experience God delivering us from our troubles on occasion.   Many times, our prayers are requests for God to take us out of any given difficulty.  One of the things that may be hard to process is that sometimes God wants to deliver us while in the time of difficulty.  No doubt, the Lord was with Daniel in the lion’s den and God delivers him.   What gave Daniel the strength to stand against the enemy?  In Daniel 6:10, it says that Daniel “always prayed.”  He was accustomed to praying.  Daniel heard God often, and it would appear that Daniel drew strength from his prayers.  Do you need strength today?  You will find great strength in kneeling before the Lord (Philippians4:7).  Due to school closures, Calvary Chapel Eastvale is temporarily meeting in a “Drive In format” at American Heroes Park in Eastvale.  Livestream, YouTube Live, and Facebook Live are also available at 8:30am and 10:30am Sundays.  Starting Sunday JULY 11, Calvary Eastvale will be moving to a new location at Eastvale Elementary School. 

Pastor’s Corner: Strong

Pastor Dennis Morales

“In the day when I cried out, You answered me, and made me bold with strength in my soul.” Psalm 138:3

Daniel faced a powerful king and he faced Lions with great strength. When we read of Daniel facing Lions in the Lion’s den, you have to wonder how Daniel was able to do it. Yes, he trusted God, but something brought him to the place of trust. We are told in Daniel 6 that a law had been passed prohibiting prayer to any god or any human other than the king. In fact, the punishment for breaking this law was being thrown to the Lions. It appears that what Daniel does next is what gives him strength. “When Daniel learned that the law had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its windows open toward Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God” (Daniel 6:10 NLT).


Scripture tells us that Daniel had always done this. Daniel was wired to pray when things got difficult. If obeying God meant certain death, he trusted God. It causes me to think about the things I do when things get difficult. I believe Daniel knew one of the keys to standing was actually kneeling. We are encouraged to resist worrying about anything; instead, pray about everything (Philippians 4:6 NLT). Daniel did just that. Daniel prayed and God gave him the strength to stand in the Lions Den.


As we read, Daniel trusted God, and God shut the mouths of the Lions. What are you facing today? Does it feel like a mountain? Do what Jesus did and go to the mountain and pray. God is able to shut the mouth of the enemy. God is also able to move mountains (Matthew 17:20). God is able to make you strong (Philippians 4:13). Pray and walk in His strength today.


Due to school closures, Calvary Chapel Eastvale is temporarily meeting in a “Drive In format” at American Heroes Park at 8:30am and 10:30am. All midweek services can be viewed on Facebook Live at 7pm. Download our online bulletin to stay current at calvaryeastvale.org.


Join Calvary Chapel Eastvale for Bright Night. Bright Night is a fun and safe alternative to Harvest festivities for families on October 31st at 5PM through 8PM at the American Heroes Park, 6608 Hellman Ave. This is a free drive-thru event for all ages to enjoy the free candy, treats, and music. You can even join in the festivities by decorating your vehicle! For more information, visit www.

Wrestling?

Pastor Dennis Morales

“O Lord, how long shall I cry, And You will not hear?” Habakkuk 1:1

Pandemic, panic, division, and the question, “How much longer, Lord?”    At some point, some of us have wondered, “Where is God?” We may even have thought that it seems like evil is winning and God is silent. Habakkuk shows us that we have a choice as to how we respond to the difficulties in our life.  It’s obvious by the language of Habakkuk at the onset, that he begins to wrestle with God in prayer (Habakkuk’s name actually means wrestle).  Have you ever felt like your prayers are like wrestling prayers?  Habakkuk was troubled by the moral and spiritual decline of the world around him and he wanted answers.  God answers Habakkuk, but it’s probably not the answer he is looking for.   God says, “I’m working, but if I told you how, you wouldn’t believe it” (Hab1:5).  God said He would use the wicked Chaldeans to judge Judah. God’s response troubled him even more because it meant things would get worse. Habakkuk didn’t understand God’s response, but he says later “the just shall live by faith” (Hab 2:4).  Habakkuk would learn that understanding how God works is not his job, trusting Him is.  If God told you everything He is doing and how He would do it, would you be able to understand it?  Would you accept it?  Scripture says God doesn’t think like us (Isaiah 55:8).  It’s easy to get anxious, but God says, “He is working.”  Habakkuk brought his prayer to God and allow His peace to flood his heart (read Philippians 4:7).  Habakkuk’s worship and prayer of encouragement is a beautiful demonstration of his faith in God .  He trusted the steadfast love and faithfulness of his Savior even when he didn’t understand God’s plan.  The prophet Habakkuk lived in a day of uncertainty, much like we do. In light of all his questions about the future, his response remained simple, “yet I will rejoice in the Lord” (Habakkuk 3:18). We too can rejoice, no matter the circumstances.  Will you trust Him today? We are complete in Jesus alone and in His steadfast love and faithfulness (read John 16:33).  Habakkuk’s wrestling became worship. 

Due to school closures, Calvary Chapel Eastvale is temporarily meeting in a “Drive In format” at American Heroes Park at 8:30am and 10:30am.  All midweek services can be viewed on Facebook Live at 7pm.  Download our online bulletin to stay current at calvaryeastvale.org.  

Presence of Peace

Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace” Psalm 29:11

To have peace, is the quest of most of society. “If I could only have this or that… then I will be at peace.” We have a tendency to place earthly demands on peace. Meaning, many think peace is only attained by things we can see, handle, or control. I am reminded when the disciples had followed Jesus into a boat, He had gone right to sleep after a long day of teaching. A violent storm had erupted, and the disciples were soon being tossed around the boat struggling to fight against the waves and wind (Mark 4:35-41). Mind you, some of the disciples were also toughened fishermen. Goes to show that no matter what our experience, we can feel helpless at times. Scripture says that the waves “covered” the boat (Matt 8:24), so the disciples were desperate. Marks Gospel details that other little boats had followed, so they weren’t alone in what they feared. The disciples, gripped by fear, searched and found Jesus in the stern asleep (literally “numb” in the original language). They respond, “don’t you care that we are perishing!” Jesus simply gets up, goes over, and rebukes the wind by simply saying “peace, be still!” Choice words that resonate today. Jesus then responds by saying to the disciples, “where is your faith?” (Luke 8:25). That was the problem. The disciples still lacked faith in Jesus, who had power over the very elements striking fear in their hearts. I think we have a tendency to turn to outlets for information and remain focused on the information, rather than on God’s presence. We have confirmation in God’s word that God gives strength to his people as they trust in Him. Another caveat of His presence is peace (Psalm 29:11). You will have true peace today if you trust He’s in the boat with you (Psalm 46:10). He is near to all who call upon Him(psalm145:18).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets at Clara Barton Elementary School 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. Services times are 8:30 & 10:30 on Sundays. 7pm on Wednesdays. Currently ALL SERVICES online: “Calvary Eastvale” YouTube, FaceBook, Twitter, and Instagram.

“Faith is Stronger”

Pastor Dennis Morales

“…Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9

As Joshua took the baton from Moses, his first task as new leader was to take the million plus people across the Jordan and into the Promised Land. It appeared to be a daunting task, because it was harvest time and the Jordan was swollen beyond its banks. Nevertheless, God gave the instructions to cross. The priests would go first. God said the moment they touch the Jordan river water with their feet, the flowing water would part, and all the people could cross. Three days the people waited as they watched the torrent of water. Three days for the enemy to try to plant seeds of doubt and fear in everyone’s hearts. It would take great faith to cross the Jordan. Joshua encouraged the people as he was encouraged by God to have faith. The day came for the people to cross, and they did as God had commanded them. We know from the story why God wanted the priests to go first. It’s because they carried the Ark of the covenant. The Ark represented God’s presence to His people. It was always at the center of the camp and was to be at the center of God’s people. When the priests went into the Jordan, they were told to stand in the center of the riverbed until everyone crossed. The Ark stood with them in the middle of the riverbed until all the people crossed. They experienced God presence with them as they crossed to dispel any doubt or fear. It took faith as they waited and as they crossed, but God brought them through. The same is true today. God standing with you. Faith is the opposite of fear. Trust the Lord to bring you through this difficult time. Trust what God sees. You may not see Him, but He sees your situation. Faith is stronger than Fear. Isaiah 41:10, Isaiah 26:3 and Philippians chapter 4. I encourage you to commit your faith in the Lord and experience His peace today. He will bring us through.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am/Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (currently suspended due to the COVID19). ALL SERVICES ARE CURRENTLY ONLINE: calvaryeastvale.org, YouTube, Vimeo, , church bulletin app, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter.

Pastor’s Corner: Easter is…

By Dennis Morales

“I am the resurrection and the life…”  John 11:25

          When I think of Easter, I have cool memories of visiting family, going to church in brand new clothes, having conversations over big meals, eating chocolate like there’s no tomorrow, getting chocolate on those brand new clothes, and don’t forget the peeps!   Easter carries with it so many family traditions.  Easter for some can be bittersweet as we have fond memories of loved ones missed.  But we must not forget what Easter actually is.  It is about death and resurrection of life. 

Death is something that grips the world with fear.  Jesus often confronted death in His earthly ministry.  This was an occasion where one of Jesus’ good friends had passed away.  It was at the grave of Lazarus that Jesus wept.  He wept because He knew that death wasn’t part of God’s original plan.  God’s intention wasn’t for mankind to experience suffering and death.  Jesus wept because of the effect of sin over the world and because He saw the pain it caused in His friends Mary and Martha.  Martha told Jesus that if He had been there earlier, they wouldn’t be mourning.  Jesus’ response still resonates throughout time.  He said “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live” (John 11:25).  It’s interesting that in scripture we find that Jesus broke up every funeral He ever attended. Death could not exist where He was. When the dead heard His voice they sprang to life.   This Easter remember what Easter really is.  Jesus met death Himself, but the grave could not hold Him.  He rose.  If you put your faith in Jesus, the Bible says that you will live forever in the presence of God.  Jesus defeated death once for all (Hebrews 10:10).  Jesus is our living hope (1Peter 1:3).   

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (calvaryeastvale.org). 

Pastor’s Corner: Stand in Faith

“Watch, stand fast in the faith, be brave, be strong…”

1 Corinthians 16:13
Pastor Dennis Morales
Pastor Dennis Morales

By Pastor Dennis Morales

This is the final encouragement to a church from the Apostle Paul.  Paul planted the Corinthian church, but the church had issues that needed addressing.  The final comments to them is a calling to “stand fast.”  This is actually a military term meaning to “hold your position” or “to refuse to be defeated.”  There is to be no retreat. Paul is encouraging the Corinthian church to remain strong in the faith because opposition will come.  Trials will ensue.  Are you going through a time of drought?  Are you going through a time of discouragement?   Paul says, “stand firm and be brave.”  I believe we need to share this encouragement all the more today.   I am reminded how “Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”   This Scripture says God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs (Daniel 1:8-9).  Under Babylonian rule, Daniel turned his back on the luxuries of the king’s court because eating defiled food would have been a compromise of his faith.  God honored Daniel’s stand and he earned the respect of the chief of the eunuchs, because Daniel’s courage impressed him.   Daniel stood for God and was strong.  He didn’t seek man’s approval, but God’s will.   If we allow ourselves to be dissuaded from doing anything unless we have complete approval, it almost assured we will never accomplish anything of value. Instead of being discouraged by opposition, we should take comfort in (God’s faithfulness) and keep on doing what is right. Whatever you find yourself up against today, remember that “one,” with God, is the majority.   “If God is for “you” who can stand against you (Romans 8:31).  He sees what you don’t see.  Faith is trusting and believing God.  God does the impossible (Matthew 19:26).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 and 10:30am / Wednesdays 7pm @ Clara Barton Elementary (calvaryeastvale.org).