On Christianity

DEAR REV. GRAHAM: My father never had any problems with alcohol, but after mother died last year he began drinking heavily, and now it's gotten out of control. How can my brothers and I help him? If we try to say anything he just leaves the room.

-- S.G.

DEAR S.G.: I once heard an experienced pastor say something like this: "You'll never understand alcohol as a problem until you understand it as a solution." In other words, for many people alcohol becomes a way to "solve" their problems, by covering them up and escaping from them. But that never works, because the problems remain, and alcohol only makes them worse.

From what you say, I suspect your father feels the pain of your mother's death very deeply, and he's using alcohol to escape from that pain. Not only does he miss her, but he also probably worries about the future and how he'll manage without her. He may not even realize what he's doing.

You and your brothers need to confront him with the reality of what he's doing. Let him know -- openly and clearly -- that you love him, and because you love him you can't bear to see him destroy himself. Remind him that your mother loved him, and the last thing she would have wanted was for him to become enslaved by alcohol. Find out, as well, what resources may be available in your community to help him. Your pastor or family doctor may have suggestions.

Assure him, too, that you're praying for him -- not just to break free from alcohol's grip, but to turn his life over to Christ. May the Psalmist's prayer become his: "Why, my soul, are you downcast?... Put your hope in God" (Psalm 43:5).

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

Food on 10/01/2014

Upcoming Events