LESSONS FROM BILLY GRAHAM

Lessons from Billy Graham: Building a Life Without Regret

As we journey through life, certain decisions and priorities may lead to moments of reflection and sometimes regret. The late Billy Graham, one of the greatest evangelists of the 20th century, shared three profound regrets during an interview near the end of his life.

Here, in his own words, are the three biggest regrets of Billy Graham’s life and ministry.

Although I have much to be grateful for as I look back over my life, I also have many regrets. I have failed many times, and I would do many things differently. For one thing, I would speak less and study more, and I would spend more time with my family. LESSONS FROM BILLY GRAHAM

When I look back over the schedule I kept thirty or forty years ago, I am staggered by all the things we did and the engagements we kept. Sometimes we flitted from one part of the country to another, even from one continent to another, in the course of only a few days. Were all those engagements necessary? Was I as discerning as I might have been about which ones to take and which to turn down? I doubt it. Every day I was absent from my family is gone forever. Although much of that travel was necessary, some of it was not.

I would also spend more time in spiritual nurture, seeking to grow closer to God so I could become more like Christ. I would spend more time in prayer, not just for myself but for others. I would spend more time studying the Bible and meditating on its truth, not only for sermon preparation but to apply its message to my life. It is far too easy for someone in my position to read the Bible only with an eye on a future sermon, overlooking the message God has for me through its pages.

And I would give more attention to fellowship with other Christians, who could teach me and encourage me (and even rebuke me when necessary).

About one thing I have absolutely no regrets, however, and that is my commitment many years ago to accept God’s calling to serve Him as an evangelist of the Gospel of Christ. LESSONS FROM BILLY GRAHAM

Billy Graham, often called the “Pastor to America,” left a legacy of faith and inspiration that touched millions. Yet, in reflecting on his extraordinary life, he expressed that if he could do it all over again, he would prioritize three things:

1. Spending More Time in God’s Word
He wished he had delved deeper into personal Bible study—not just for sermons but to feed his own soul and strengthen his relationship with God.

2. Building Stronger Connections with Other Believers
Graham emphasized the value of community—spending more time learning from, encouraging, and being sharpened by fellow Christians.

3. Cherishing Family Moments
Despite his global ministry impact, he recognized the irreplaceable value of time with loved ones and wished he had devoted more to his family.

These reflections resonate with many of us. In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to sacrifice what truly matters: our devotion to God, connection to others, and time with family. Entertainment, career pursuits, and busyness often take precedence, leaving us spiritually and relationally depleted.

But Billy Graham’s regrets don’t have to be ours. We can choose differently today:

– Value Bible Study: Prioritize time in God’s Word to grow in faith and wisdom.
– Invest in Community: Engage with your church family and find strength in fellowship.
– Nurture Your Family: Create lasting memories and build relationships that matter most.

Let his reflections inspire you to realign your priorities, pursue what truly matters, and build a life without regrets.