DEAR REV. GRAHAM: Our preacher keeps telling us to put our trust in God and to live every day according to His promises, but I have a hard time doing this. Does faith just come harder to some people (like me) than it does to others?
-- J.S.W.
DEAR J.S.W.: Yes, some people do seem to have a harder time trusting God and believing that His way is always best. They may be sincere believers, and yet they still have a hard time taking their hands off their situation and living by faith.
Do you remember Peter, who on one occasion stepped out of the boat and began walking on the water toward Jesus, only to become fearful and sink? We rightly criticize him for not having more faith, but unlike the others, at least he got out of the boat. Peter wasn't perfect, but at that moment he found it easier than his fellow disciples to put his faith into action. We should learn from his example. (You can read about this incident in Matthew 14:22-36.)
The real question is can your faith grow stronger? The answer first of all is to allow God's truth to overcome your doubts. Is the Bible part of your life every day? Do you allow its truth to penetrate your soul? Let your prayer be that of the Psalmist: "Teach me, Lord, the way of your decrees, that I may follow it to the end" (Psalm 119:33).
Then ask God to help you trust Him more and more each day, following Him, doing what is right, and leaving the results in His hands. When you do, you'll soon realize that God's way is always best, without exception. And the more you see Him work, the easier it will be to trust Him in everything.
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
MovieStyle on 08/19/2016