What shold be considered an abundant life?

on Oct 22, 2025

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I attended one of the largest churches in the nation a few weeks ago while in Texas and heard the pastor say that God intends for every person to be successful and be a winner. He said that God has never destined anybody to live a mediocre life. This is troubling because I wouldn’t say that my parents were successful in life. They owned a small cleaners and worked hard, but went day to day. But my parents provided for me, took me to church and raised me to love the Lord. According to the mega pastor, that is not considered the abundant life the Lord promises. – M.L.

A: There is no indication that Christians should expect to be healthy, wealthy and successful in this present age. But we must be careful when defining the meaning of these words. There are people who are physically fit outwardly, but are tormented in their minds. There are people who are very rich but lack a solid marriage, longtime friends and live only to see their name in a headline, even if scandalous. Then there are those who may be wheelchair-bound, like Joni Eareckson Tada, who has inspired scores of people who suffer from severe injuries. Her uplifting smile has encouraged others for five decades.

Many people thought to be successful are also prideful. Pride is associated with failure, not success. Some parents raise children who become selfish, while other parents raise children who go out of their way to help others in need, or simply for the sheer joy of giving of themselves.

Some of the most successful people in the eyes of the world are also some of the most miserable. It doesn’t matter what earthly possessions we may own or even the relationships that we enjoy; without God at the center of life, we are spiritual paupers.

========

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)