MY ANSWER

Is it wrong to keep your thoughts about people to yourself, instead of telling them what you really think?
Billy Graham writes, "It isn't wrong to keep silent at times; as the Bible says, there is "a time to be silent and a time to speak" (Ecclesiastes 3:7)."

MY ANSWER

Our daughter is getting married and we aren't pleased with her choice of husband. Should we attend the wedding or not?
Billy Graham writes, "Only you know the full situation, of course—but based on what you say, I urge you not to stay away from your daughter's wedding, even if you rightly disagree with the way she's been living or feel she is making a mistake."

MY ANSWER

Our mother has a lot of health issues, but my sister won’t do much to help her, although she lives a few blocks away. How can I persuade her to do more?
Billy Graham writes, "Family situations like this are seldom easy—as you've probably discovered. If you were to say the wrong thing to your sister, for example, or approach her with the wrong attitude, you might end up making things worse instead of better."

MY ANSWER

It's been more than a year since I've had a job. I feel so useless and hopeless. Maybe you can give me some encouragement.
Billy Graham writes, "The most encouraging thing I can tell you is that God has not forgotten you. He knows all about you, and He cares about you and wants to help you."

MY ANSWER

My father died two years ago. My mother told me she's in love with someone she wants to marry. It's upset me greatly. How can I explain my feelings to her?
Billy Graham writes, "Your feelings are understandable; from time to time I get letters that are similar to yours. But your mother's situation is also understandable."

MY ANSWER

My mother died last year at 84, and I feel so guilty over the way I treated her. Will God forgive me?
Billy Graham writes, "One of life's hardest lessons is that we can't go back and change the past. Much as we'd like to, we can't undo the wrong things we did, or (as in your case) do the things we failed to do."

MY ANSWER

I've always used foul language without even thinking about it. Now I've become a Christian and I know it needs to stop. Any suggestions?
Billy Graham writes, "The Bible is clear: 'Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths. ... Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking' (Ephesians 4:29; 5:4)."

MY ANSWER

I guess I'm kind of a "church hopper" because I'm always changing churches and never seem to find one that satisfies me. Why can't I find the right church?
Billy Graham writes, "Have you ever stopped to ask yourself exactly what makes you dissatisfied with the churches you attend? Are the people less friendly than you had hoped, or is the music not to your liking?"

MY ANSWER

My husband and I get upset at our neighbors. They seem to care more for their business than they do for their children. Should we say something to them?
Billy Graham writes, "This isn't an easy question to answer—and the reason is because you could easily say the wrong thing and get your neighbors upset at you."

MY ANSWER

My wife died a year ago, and at first everyone was very concerned and helpful. But now it's as if they don't know I exist. Why is this?
Billy Graham writes, "I'm sorry people have drawn back; one reason I wanted to reprint your letter is because I hope it will make us more sensitive to those who grieve. The Bible says, 'Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn' (Romans 12:15)."

MY ANSWER

My sister died a few months ago. We hadn't spoken for over 20 years, but now I feel terrible that I never tried to mend our relationship.
Billy Graham writes, "Thank you for your honesty, and also for your concern. Perhaps others who read this have been alienated from a brother or sister, or even a parent or child, and your letter will encourage them to take the first step."

MY ANSWER

Why should I believe in God if it doesn't make any difference in the lives of my friends?
Billy Graham writes, "God has not promised that Christians will be exempt from problems—not at all. ... But listen: It does make a difference whether or not we believe in God."

MY ANSWER

I've just discovered my boyfriend has been dating someone else. I thought I could trust him. How can I keep from feeling there isn't any hope?
Billy Graham writes, "If your boyfriend's love wasn't sincere, isn't it better for you to find it out now than later on? I know this is a deep emotional blow right now, but in time I suspect you'll actually be thankful for it."

MY ANSWER

All my life, I've never felt that anyone really cared for me. Is this just the way I am, or do you think I can change?
Billy Graham writes, "Yes, you can change, with God's help—and I want to assure you that God wants you to change."

MY ANSWER

Do you think it's important to tell the truth all the time? So many people I know don't think anything about telling a lie if it will help them.
Billy Graham writes, "I commend you for your stand for Christ and your commitment to avoid lying—even when it seems like it would help you. The Bible is clear: 'Each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor' (Ephesians 4:25)."

MY ANSWER

I'm tempted to cancel the annual Thanksgiving gathering at our house because it always ends with everyone getting mad. Do you have any suggestions?
Billy Graham writes, "Instead of avoiding this family gathering, why not ask God to help you be a peacemaker in your family? Jesus said, 'Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God' (Matthew 5:9)."

MY ANSWER

Where is the Golden Rule found in the Bible? I know that we're supposed to live by the Golden Rule but I want to be sure I know exactly what it says.
Billy Graham writes, "The brief statement that we often call the 'Golden Rule' was spoken by Jesus, and you can find it in Matthew 7:12. Here is what it says: 'So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.'"

MY ANSWER

Our parents are getting older, and my brothers and sisters are arguing about who should get what from the estate. How should I react as a Christian?
Billy Graham writes, "I don't know if your parents have made a will, but if not, you should encourage them to take that step. Not only will it help avoid legal difficulties later on, but it could also make clear your parents' true wishes."

MY ANSWER

My sister and I are very different, and my parents don't want anything to do with her. She's really living a wild life, but I can't cut off all contact with her. Do you think I should?
Billy Graham writes, "I don't know your full situation, of course, but if possible, I hope you can maintain contact with your sister and do whatever you can to help her and encourage her to change."

MY ANSWER

How can you help someone without making them dependent on you?
Billy Graham writes, "The Bible tells us to 'Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality' (Romans 12:13)."