From the writings of the

Rev. Billy Graham

Q: Someone on the radio spoke about God putting a value on the human soul. How can this be since no one can see or touch the soul?

A: From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

It was reported several years ago that it would take a hundred billion dollars to get one man safely to Mars. That is a staggering amount of money. It is interesting how people place great value on things and even experiences. But God, in His outpouring of love for mankind, placed the value of one human soul at an incalculable price—the blood of His only Son in order to get just one soul to Heaven. Imagine: This priceless gift has not only saved one soul for eternity but a vast number that only God Himself knows. By tasting death for everyone, Jesus took over our penalty as He erased our guilt. This is God’s amazing forgiveness and love toward mankind.

We humans cannot see or touch the soul—but God can and does because He created it. The Bible says: “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?” (Mark 8:36-37).

Even as you read this you can submit your life to Christ Jesus by admitting your sin against Him and asking Him to forgive you and help you walk in a way that pleases Him. This world is on a collision course. People are frantic about the future. But you can be filled with assurance that He is with you every step of the way and will grant you peace and eternal life. Don’t delay. Exchange your sin for Christ’s salvation. Receive Him today and He will begin to show you how to live a valuable life with purpose and thanksgiving.

Q: When my son started his first year of college I asked what he hoped to become after graduation. His answer startled me when he said, “I want to be a VIP!” I don’t think I’ve ever heard that as an occupation. Doesn’t it seem a rather empty goal?

A: From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

In many contexts, VIP means “Very Important Person.” Surprisingly, many people aspire to attain just that; becoming a very important person without paying their dues and being a person of integrity in order to deserve others’ respect. This is especially true in a society that celebrates stardom.

But the acronym also offers us a character test. The V stands for VISION, for the Bible tells us that without vision people perish (Proverbs 29:18). Having a vision means seeing what can be done, what ought to be done, and working to get it done. The highest vision we can have is to glorify God by discovering God’s will for our lives—and then doing it.

The letter I stands for INTEGRITY, meaning that a person is the same on the inside as he or she appears on the outside. There must be no discrepancy between what we say and what we do, between our walk and our talk.

The P stands for PRESENCE—God’s presence in our lives. Without God’s help we are doomed. Only in Christ do we find out who we are, why we are here, and where we are going—and only in Him do we find the power to fulfill our God-given vision.

A genuine VIP is a person with vision, integrity and God’s presence. Pray for your child. Teach your child truth. Show your child how to live righteously through your own example. God will bless you.