From the writings of the
Rev. Billy Graham
Q: The world’s approach to life is that we should spend our time securing our future through education, health plans, financial security, etc. The Bible seems to teach that we should live one day at a time when it says: “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about its own things” (Matthew 6:34). How should we live?
A: From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
One of the dangers in taking advice is taking it out of context. The Psalmist reminds us, “The entirety of Your word is truth” (Psalm 119:160). Planning and worrying are two different things. When we worry, we are not trusting God for our futures, but the Bible does teach the importance of preparation.
As human beings we should all be wise in planning for life like getting a good education, preparing for marriage and a family, etc. In fact, Jesus commended the wise man who builds his house upon the rock instead of the sand (Matthew 7:24-26). He also asked the question, “For which of you, intending to build a tower (building), does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?” (Luke 14:28).
The Bible does not look down on preparation, but the most important preparation we can do in this life is to prepare for the next life—eternity. Where will you spend it? There are only two choices—Heaven or Hell. There is nothing in between. Do not wait until death approaches because no one knows what a day may bring. Today you can prepare for your future life. What a magnificent thought, and Jesus Christ has paid the cost. Do not delay. Prepare to meet God, for He says, “Now is the day of salvation” (2 Corinthians 6:2).
Q: When I was growing up, couples living together outside of marriage were looked down on. Now it is celebrated in many circles with the excuse that young people want to make sure they are compatible. How have our values gotten so mixed up?
A: From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
We have changed our moral code to fit our behavior instead of changing our behavior to harmonize with God’s moral code. Nothing is “fixed” today. We are not on solid ground; millions of people today shift from one side to the other. They are like misguided missiles filled with energy and ambition, yet talking about being stressed and tired. Why is this? Peer pressure from society is one of the answers. The undue emphasis on violence, sex and the debunking of the home from the world of entertainment, has led many astray. And the church must also take some responsibility for not specifically preaching against these strongholds.
People are morally and spiritually drifting aimlessly, without compass or guide. A few pastors even contemplate that they may need to go back to the beginning and explain to people what sin really is. We do not need a Savior because of what sins we have committed; we need a Savior because we are sinners. God calls on all people to repent and turn from sin. “Whoever confesses and forsakes (sin) will have mercy” (Proverbs 28:13).
