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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: The Bible says that those who follow Jesus are to walk in His steps. I know people who claim they do, but they encounter some terrible problems along the way. One would think that if we walk with God, His presence would protect us from all harm. How are we to know exactly how to understand this perplexing command? – W.J.

A: Abraham walked with God in faithful obedience up to Mount Moriah and his son was spared. Noah walked with God during the great flood and his family was saved. Moses walked with God in the solitude of the desert when the hour of judgment fell upon Egypt, and the children of Israel safely crossed the Red Sea and watched their enemies drown in the rushing waters. David walked with God as a shepherd boy and slayed the threatening giant and brought victory to Israel. Daniel walked with God in the lion’s den; his three friends walked with God in the fiery furnace, and all lived to praise their Savior.

God has not promised to deliver us from adversity, but He has promised to be with us. God has not promised to deliver us from trouble, but He has promised to go with us through the trouble.

The first martyr, Stephen, was young and “full of faith and the Holy Spirit” (Acts 6:5, NKJV), and as God’s enemies stoned Stephen to death, Stephen saw the Lord standing in Heaven to receive him. What a triumphant entry to the throne of God!

Christians are often in conflict with society, because society is going one direction and the Christian is going in the opposite direction. But God has promised, in the midst of trouble and conflict, a sense of assurance and security that the worldly person never knows. Earth’s troubles fade in the light of Heaven’s glory.

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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.