On Christianity

DEAR REV. GRAHAM: I always thought it would be exciting to live in a big city, and after I graduated last year I took a job in one. But I never realized how lonely I'd be. I can't afford to go home for Christmas this year, but I hate the idea of sitting alone in my apartment. Is God telling me I ought to quit my job and move back home?

-- A.J.

DEAR A.J.: You have discovered what countless people before you have realized: a city can be a very lonely place. I often think of the paralyzed man who couldn't find anyone in the entire city of Jerusalem to help him -- until Jesus came along and healed him (see John 5:1-9).

I don't know if you made a mistake by moving to this city -- but God knows your situation, and the most important thing you can do is seek His will for your future. He loves you, and He knows what is best for you. Even if you didn't look to Him for guidance before, I urge you to do so now. And if you have never asked Jesus Christ to come into your life, open your heart and life to Him today. God's promise is for you: "In all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:6).

In the meantime, however, take steps to overcome your loneliness. What can you do? First, seek out a church where you can meet others your age -- and also grow in your faith. An active church may also offer opportunities for you to get involved with others in community service projects.

Don't, however, seek to overcome your loneliness in wrong ways, or in wrong places (as many do). Remember: God loves you, and when we know Christ, we are never alone.

Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangenlistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201 or visit the website at

billygraham.org

Weekend on 11/30/2017

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