Is it more helpful to prepare for bad times before they swoop down upon us?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I have watched many of my friends enjoy life for years without much struggle at all. Now that we are getting older, many are in financial trauma and physical distress. Some are turning to the Lord out of despair, but I wonder if it is more helpful to prepare for these times before they swoop down upon us? – H.T.
A: The time to prepare for life’s disappointments and hurts is in advance, before they come crashing down upon us. But if preparation has not been made, now is the time to build spiritual foundations that won’t collapse under the weight of life’s challenges.
It is wise to ask ourselves how strong our foundation is and how to strengthen it. A building’s foundation is not built in a day. The spiritual foundation is laid, first, by turning to the Lord and receiving His salvation, repenting of sin, turning from sin, and obediently following Him. Such a foundation is fortified by bringing every thought and concern to God, and thanking Him for His guidance in every decision that comes.
The Bible says, “Whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on the house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock” (Matthew 7:24–25). There is no other Rock but God Himself, and He is the believer’s stronghold.
Make it your goal to build strong foundations for life — foundations constructed from prayer and the truths of God’s Word.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2023 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2023 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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