ON CHRISTIANITY

DEAR REV. GRAHAM: Preachers like you always are blaming the world’s problems on human weakness, but I think it all boils down to poverty and economic inequality. If everyone had enough, then people wouldn’t have any reason to fight, would they?

  • M.N.

DEAR M.N.: I want to assure you that God is deeply concerned about the countless millions who live in poverty today - and He commands us to be concerned, as well. Selfishness and lack of concern for others are sins in His sight, and someday we’ll pay a stiff price for our thoughtlessness. The Bible says, “The righteous care about justice for the poor, but the wicked have no such concern” (Proverbs 29:7).

But what would happen if suddenly everyone had an equal amount of money? Would all wars and conflicts cease, and would everyone be happy? Tragically, the answer is no. Some people would still be driven by greed, constantly wanting more - and devising schemes to gain it. Others would spend their money unwisely, ending up in poverty before they realized it.

Why is this? The problem is the human heart. We are by nature selfish and sinful, and as long as this is the case, our problems will never be completely solved. The Bible says, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” (James 4:1).

This is why our greatest need is to turn to Christ, for only He can change our hearts and plant within us a new love for others. And this can happen to you, as you open your heart and life to His transforming power. Don’t put your trust in solutions that will ultimately fail, but commit your life to Christ, and then ask Him to help you see the world and its needs through His eyes.

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

HomeStyle, Pages 36 on 03/15/2014

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