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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I’ve been talking to a cousin of mine about salvation in Christ. She thinks herself a good person not needing forgiveness of sin. Now that she’s suffering from a physical illness, her interest in the Bible has piqued. What’s the best way to counsel her? – U.K.

A: What stirs God most is not our physical suffering, but our sin. All too often we’re more afraid of physical pain and emotional pain than of moral wrong. Often, suffering sets off an alarm.

There’s going to come a moment – sometime, somewhere – when everyone is going to have to face God. Are we ready to meet Him? Or will we continue suffering in unquenching flames of despair in various forms?

What must we do? God took the initiative in giving His Son, Jesus Christ, to save us. Have we responded, “Yes Lord, I need You”? Do we hear God saying, “I love you, I want to forgive you, I want to write your name in the Book of Life, I want you to go to Heaven”? If so, how do we respond?

We must admit our sin to God and say, “I’m a sinner.” We must confess that much, because everybody fits that category. We must tell the Lord, “I’m willing to change my mind to such an extent that it alters my conduct.” That’s repentance. It involves a change of mind. It involves also a change in the way we live. We must be willing to do that – and God helps us in this struggle, and He gives us faith to believe in Him.

Faith means total commitment. By faith, empowered by God, the mind and emotions are altered, giving a newness of life. God grants us this great turn in direction when we humble ourselves and surrender to His will by faith.

(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.