Should we just press on in spite of our fears?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: Travel is a big part of my work, but I’m growing weary of getting on airplanes because of the many troubles air travel has had in recent months. I have faith in God, but my faith isn’t quite so strong in the airline industry. People who know me keep telling me to have faith in God for protection, but shouldn’t we pay attention to alarms that ring in our ears, or should we just press on in spite of our fears? – F.F.
A: Which wing of an airplane is more important? Obviously, both are equally necessary, and therefore, both are equally important. Which is more important: what we believe about God or what kind of life we live? Again, both are equally necessary, and therefore, both are equally important. In other words, does our faith move us to action?
In fact, the Bible says that if we claim to believe in Christ but it doesn’t make any difference in the way we live, then our faith isn’t really genuine. This doesn’t mean we must be perfect (because we never will be this side of eternity). But there are warnings about the dangers of a shallow belief in Christ that isn’t honest or real. At the same time, we must not lose sight of the fact that we are saved solely by our faith in Christ, not by our good deeds.
Many times, our fears are really anxiety – dreading something we’d rather not do. We shouldn’t deny these emotions, but we must not cling to them. What can we do? The Bible tells us to be assured of our salvation and then cast our anxieties on the Lord because He cares for us (see 1 Peter 5:7).
Fear can banish faith, but faith can banish fear.
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2025 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2025 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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