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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I do believe in Jesus but I don’t have the same results as others who claim they follow Jesus. Some people say that we must submit to God – to give up things the world offers – but I don’t agree with them because it is God who gives us all that the world offers and we simply have to make wise choices in what we do and don’t do. What am I missing? – T.B.

A: It’s important to understand what this word “believe” implies. It means “commit” and “surrender.” Believing is your response to God’s offer of mercy, love, forgiveness, and salvation. Some say faith is for the weak minded, the weak bodied, and the weak spirited. This is not true – everyone exhibits faith daily.

When we get into our cars, it is by faith. We believe we can arrive at our destination safely. Perhaps you stopped this morning to get a cup of coffee, never questioning that it might contain a drop or two of poison. Where you may be sitting right now, you believe that the chair or bench will not collapse. Everything we do is by faith.

So, it is by faith that a person believes. This is what John 3:16 says: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (NKJV).

The one and only way by which you can be saved is to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior through repentance of sin and faith in the Savior. The Lord Himself grants faith and strengthens that 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.