My Answer: A few evangelists don’t spoil the bunch
Q: I think all you evangelists are just in it for the money. I watch some of you on TV occasionally, and all you do is ask for money. Religion is just a fraud as far as I’m concerned. Why should I listen to any of you? — A.L.
A: I’m very sorry if the questionable behavior of a few has turned you against God. The Bible’s standard is clear, not just for those who are called to be evangelists, but also for all believers: “Walk before me faithfully with integrity of heart and uprightness” (1 Kings 9:4).
But I can’t help but wonder if this is your real problem — or if you’re only using it as an excuse to keep God out of your life. Do you refuse to consult a lawyer just because a few aren’t honest? Do you refuse to visit a restaurant just because a few aren’t clean? Do you refuse to get on an airplane because one occasionally crashes?
Neither should you turn your back on God because a few who claim to follow him don’t live up to their calling.
No Christian is perfect; we all need God’s forgiveness and grace. But so do you, whether you admit it or not. This is why I urge you to look at Jesus Christ. He alone is perfect, and he alone can change our lives and give us hope for the future. The reason is because he was God in human flesh, sent from heaven to save us from our sins.
Don’t let your pride, love of sin or anything else keep you from facing your need for Christ. As I often say, don’t gamble with your soul. The Bible says, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it” (Matthew 7:13).
*
Q: We moved to a new city a few months ago when my husband was transferred. He loves his new job, but I’m miserable because I don’t know anyone here, and I’m just getting more and more depressed. I’ve even thought about going back home, although I don’t want to. What would you advise? — Mrs. M. McF.
A: As you’ve discovered, a city can be a very lonely place. People get involved in their own activities and careers (as has happened with your husband), and it isn’t easy for someone in your position to meet new people or find friends.
This is why you’ll need to take definite steps to overcome your loneliness. How can you meet other people? You might get a job, take a college course or get involved in some other activity where you’ll be with people (if you don’t have family responsibilities). You may find people who are just as lonely as you are. But don’t get involved in something that won’t be uplifting.
The best way, however, to make new friends would be for you and your husband to get involved in a local church. Elsewhere in your letter, you mention that neither of you comes from a religious background, but why not start your journey of faith now? By a simple prayer of faith ask Christ to come into your life, and then ask him to guide you to a church with programs and activities for people your age.
But a church will not only help you meet people. Above all, it will help you grow in your relationship with God. Could anything be more important?
The Bible says, “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
(Send your queries to “My Answer,” c/o Billy Graham, Billy Graham Evangelistic Assn., 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C., 28201; call 1-(877) 2-GRAHAM; or visit https://www.billygraham.org.)