From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Many young people face spiritual doubts when they begin college. Many intellectuals in the education system feel it’s their duty to call into question a higher authority. Doubt begins to creep in and can easily overtake the mind. The Bible tells us to be on the lookout for such deceit; it comes from Satan. “Your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith” (1 Peter 5:8–9).

The devil wants to discourage every believer and divert us. He will seek to dilute our testimony; he will attempt anything to destroy our relationship to Christ and our influence on others. He is a master at making us question God’s Word. He has manifested himself in every false ideology. It is his purpose to steal the seed of truth and send distracting thoughts. The greatest hindrance to Satan’s destructive efforts is when we stand strong in the knowledge and fear of the Lord. Christ gives His followers strength to choose right over wrong.

Nothing replaces spending time alone with God in prayer and reading and studying His Word. This is the way we get to know the Lord better and through this fellowship with Him He gives us strength and wisdom to overcome doubts. The Lord will give added courage to be a witness for Him whether in the classroom, at the workplace, or in the home.

The longest chapter in the Bible is Psalm 119, but in it there is a wonderful little verse that every Christian should memorize and repeat daily: “Strengthen me according to Your word” (Psalm 119:28).

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

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