LITTLE ROCK — DEAR REV. GRAHAM: Whenever my aunt wants to tell my brothers or me what we’re doing wrong (which she frequently does), she’ll often quote the Bible to “set us straight.” But how do we know what she says is really in the Bible, or if she’s just making it up? I admit she gets on our nerves sometimes.
- K.W.
DEAR K.W.: Most of us don’t particularly like having someone point out our supposed faults and try to correct us. Their advice may be wise, but our pride and our emotions get in the way, and we end up rejecting what we ought to accept.
No doubt, your aunt loves you very much, and she simply wants to help you and your brothers become better people, even if the way she does it isn’t perfect. Don’t, therefore, automatically reject everything she says; your aunt may well have some sound advice. Learn to put your pride and irritations aside and listen to what she’s trying to tell you. The Bible says, “He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray” (Proverbs 10:17).
In addition, take your aunt seriously when she says something is from the Bible. The Bible is God’s word, given to us because God loves us and knows what is best for us. Sometimes people misquote or misuse the Bible, but don’t reject something your aunt says just because you aren’t sure if it’s actually in the Bible. (A Bible concordance will help you trace any quotation.)
The most important thing you and your brothers can do is to put your lives into God’s hands. God loves you, and Jesus Christ gave His life for you. Make Him the center of your lives.
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
Style, Pages 28 on 01/29/2013
Print Headline: ON CHRISTIANITY
Comments on: ON CHRISTIANITY
To report abuse or misuse of this area please hit the "Suggest Removal" link in the comment to alert our online managers. Read our Terms of Use policy.
You must login to make comments.