How can I apply my faith very effectively?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I have been a Christian for many years, but I’ve just recently discovered that I haven’t applied my faith very effectively, though I’ve tried. Where am I going wrong? – G.F.
A: You can never live life on the highest plane unless you are continually growing and moving forward. If Christians are not closer to Christ than when first saved, and more mature spiritually years after being saved, something is wrong. The Christian life is one of constant growth.
The Apostle John spoke of fathers, young men, and little children (see 1 John 2:13). He was speaking of spiritually mature adults – young people who were growing but who had not reached spiritual maturity – and babes. There are degrees of spiritual growth.
How do we grow? How do we advance? How can we move forward? First: Bible reading: “Desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby (1 Peter 2:2, NKJV). Read it! Study it! Meditate on it! Memorize it! The majority of the Christian’s difficulties and troubles are caused by a lack of reading and studying the Word. Do not be content to skim through a chapter merely to satisfy your conscience. Hide the Word of God in your heart. A little portion well masticated is of greater spiritual value to your soul than a lengthy portion scanned hurriedly. Do not be discouraged because you cannot understand it all. The greatest theologians have had to say, “The half has not been told.” However, the Holy Spirit will make hard passages plain to you, and the Word will become a living reality in your heart.
The Bible is food for the soul. Don’t neglect it! “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee” (Psalm 119:11, KJV).
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.(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2026 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2026 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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