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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I’m struggling with finding time to read my Bible and pray. I feel guilty when I just rush out the door every morning and say a little prayer as I get in my car, but my time is so pressed. When I get home at night, I am completely exhausted; however, I’m feeling guilty about that just being an easy excuse. What can I do to set time aside without letting my responsibilities go undone or simply catch up on my sleep? – T.B.

A: We all have a tendency to excuse our prayerlessness because of the demands on our time. This is why Jesus insisted that His disciples leave the crowds that followed Him to rest and spend time alone with Him. He knew that if they didn’t discipline themselves to do this, they would continue on in their busyness and hurt themselves and those they sought to help.

Years ago, the great pastor Alan Redpath of the Moody Church in Chicago had a plaque in his office that said, “Beware of the barrenness of a busy life.”

This describes many – perhaps all – people. We think we are doing such a great work that we don’t have time to rest, reflect, and rejoice in spending time with our Lord. We must be watchful that our “work” does not become greater than our worship to the Lord, which manifests itself in our obedience to read God’s Word and spend time in prayer. This is how God communicates and fellowships with His people. This is where we learn of Him.

It takes self-denial to turn off the television [or device] and spend time with God. Reading God’s Word and spending time in prayer are the keys that open the treasures of God’s blessings.

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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.