DEAR REV. GRAHAM: My children are upset because I’ve moved in with a widower friend in our retirement village.
We’re not married, but we enjoy each other’s company, and anyway, it’s cheaper to share a unit, so what’s wrong with that? I got angry and told them to mind their own business,but maybe I shouldn’t have done that.
- S.J.
DEAR S.J.: Getting angry with your children wasn’t wise, because they love you and have your best interests at heart. And someday you’ll probably need their help, so why alienate them? The Bible rightly warns, “stirring up anger produces strife” (Proverbs 30:33).
But the real issue is your decision to move in with this male friend, and I certainly share your children’s concern. I know many today think nothing of living together or ignoring traditional moral values. But God takes such values seriously, and He does so for a very good reason: He loves us and knows what can happen when we turn our backs on His moral standards.
After all, marriage is one of God’s greatest gifts to the human race, and we treat it lightly at our peril - no matter how young or old we are. Have you ever stopped to consider what impact your example may have on others, especially your grandchildren? It would be tragic if they end up taking marriage lightly and blaming you for their attitude. The Bible says, “Marriage should be honored by all” (Hebrews 13:4).
But your letter concerns me for another reason: It suggests your only concern is for your immediate happiness, without any concern for God and His will. Someday soon, however, you will enter eternity and stand before Him, and you aren’t prepared for that day. But you can be, by repenting of your sins and giving your life to Jesus Christ - beginning today.
Write to Billy Graham in care of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, N.C. 28201 or visit the website at billygraham.org
Style, Pages 20 on 05/28/2013