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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I’m so glad that our nation has elected a president who is committed to stopping illegal immigration that has aided rampant illegal drugs coming into our country. But there has also been a rise in abuse of prescription drugs. Isn’t there great harm in this as well, bringing about a rise in depression, even in children and teenagers? – D.A.

A: Society is caught up in a powerful windstorm by turning to drugs to calm their hearts and minds.

Volumes could be written on the problem of drug abuse. Millions of barbiturates are swallowed every night to help the nation sleep. Millions of tranquilizers keep people calm during the day. Millions of pep pills wake people up in the morning. The Bible warns that these flights from reality bring no lasting satisfaction.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that antidepressants are now the most prescribed drugs in the United States. They are sometimes called “designer drugs.” In an interview on CNN, one physician stated, “It’s hard to believe that so many people are depressed, or that antidepressants are the answer.” This doctor is wise, indeed. Drugs are not the answer to man’s troubled condition. There is only one answer to the travail of this present age, and it is found in the pages of God’s Word, the Bible.

While it is important to be under the responsible care of physicians when battling emotional trauma, do not dismiss the peace of mind that comes from the Great Physician. Jesus brings deliverance to those who are weighed down. The Bible encourages us to think on things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. It is good medicine for our minds and hearts (see Philippians 4:8).

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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.