LITTLE ROCK — DEAR REV. GRAHAM: Two of my friends are very religious, but they both have health and fi nancial problems, and I don’t see that their faith is doing them any good. They say I ought to believe like they do, but why should I?
- F.D.
DEAR F.D.: If some day youend up with the same problems your friends now have, how will you react? Where will you turn for the strength and hope you’ll need?
Life hasn’t been easy for your twofriends. God hasn’t promised that any of us will be exempt from life’s troubles. But in the midst of their troubles, your friends have found strength from God. And if you ask them about this, I’m sure they’ll tell you that God has made the di◊erence. The Apostle Paul said that even when troubles come, if we know Christ “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair” (2 Corinthians 4:8).
Isn’t it better to face life’s problems with God than without Him? When we know Christ and have committed our lives to him, we have an inner resource to help us in di◊cult times. Your friends have discovered this, and I pray you will, too. The Bible says, “I can do everything through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13).
Even if your life right now is relatively easy, some day you will die and enter eternity, and when you do, you will face God. Don’t gamble with your soul, but put your faith and trust in Jesus Christ, and discover the joy of His presence.
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at billygraham.org
Weekend, Pages 32 on 01/17/2013