Charles Stanley (1932-2023)

Dr. Charles Stanley was born on September 25, 1932, in Dry Fork, Virginia. He attended the University of Richmond and Southwestern Theological Seminary for his undergraduate studies. Later, he earned Master of Theology and Doctor of Theology degrees from Luther Rice Seminary.

His pastoral ministry included serving at First Baptist Church of Atlanta, Fruitland Baptist Church in Hendersonville, North Carolina, First Baptist Church of Fairborn, Ohio, First Baptist Church of Miami, and First Baptist Church in Bartow, Florida. In 1985 and 1986, he served two terms as president of the Southern Baptist Convention.

In 1971, he began his television ministry in Atlanta with "The Chapel Hour". The Christian Broadcasting Network reached out to Stanley in 1978 and launched the renamed "In Touch with Dr. Charles Stanley". Over the course of his five decades of ministry, he became America's longest-serving television pastor, whose messages were heard in 115 countries around the world via radio, television, shortwave, and the internet.

Dr. Stanley wrote more than 70 books and Bible studies, including several New York Times bestsellers. Among them are God's Purpose for Your Life, Living in the Power of the Holy Spirit, Eternal Security, and the Charles F. Stanley Life Principles Daily Bible.

He is survived by his son, Andy Stanley, pastor of North Point Ministries, his daughter Becky Stanley Broderson, six grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. His wife, Anna Johnson Stanley, passed away in 2014.

In this revised and updated 30-lesson study guide, Dr. Charles Stanley guides readers through 30 Life Principles found in God's Word that have shaped and changed his life. God has given these principles to guide, comfort, instruct, and teach us how to live triumphant Christian lives. When we open His Word and begin to study these truths, we gain hope for the future and fresh insights into His promises and blessings. We find that life doesn't have to be a constant struggle--it can be an exciting adventure! This begins with us studying the Bible so we can learn about God, know His ways, and follow His awesome plan for our future.