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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I was saved as a teenager, but I’ve wandered far from the Lord and have made a mess of things. My elderly mother has never stopped praying for me, and when she told me I was backslidden, I wasn’t sure what that meant, but I don’t want to be distanced from Jesus; I want to be even closer than I once was. Is that possible? – B.B.

A: For those who have been saved but suffer an arm's-length relationship with the Lord, this is sometimes called backsliding. A passionate plea is sent out to repent, pray and ask the Lord to renew the joy of your salvation. Open up the Word of God and read and study His truths and His promises. The gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke work together with the book of John in telling the story of Jesus Christ and the sacrifice He made for mankind to find peace with God and to live according to His statutes and commands in order to have fulfilled lives.

The Bible says, “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him” (Psalm 34:8, NKJV).

Often, doctors prescribe special diets to the sick rather than prescription drugs. Carefully followed dietary orders can bring the body back to a healthy state. This is the principle of reading, believing, and studying God’s Word when it comes to having a healthy spiritual life.

There is a fountain of inspiration found in Scripture, and there we find the Lord’s practical counsel and sure guidance. It’s a treasure chest of wisdom, and it shouldn’t be tapped only when we find ourselves in need, but at all times, praising Him for the gift of His infinite knowledge.

Lay hold of the storehouse of God’s love and “grow in grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18, NKJV).

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(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.