My Answer

on Feb 6, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: My daughter stormed in from school and shouted, “Life isn’t fair at all,” and my knees went to knocking. What does a mom tell a teen daughter faced with all kinds of changes in her life, peer pressure and believing that her friends have it all together? I want to help prepare her for the future by helping her deal with the here and now, because the older she gets, the bigger the problems she will face. – L.U.

A: Most of us have said at one time or another, “Life isn’t fair!” The Bible never promised that life would be fair. Most often, we cannot control circumstances, especially in another’s life. But here’s a truth about walking with Christ: As we pray, we can thank Him for walking with us amidst the storms and learning what He wants to teach us. This puts an entirely different perspective on things that don’t seem fair.

While we shouldn’t anticipate trouble at every turn, some people spend so much time worrying about what might happen that they never enjoy what is happening. They never see what lies beyond trouble; perhaps the opportunity to comfort or help someone, or be blessed by someone. We can water the seed of hope in those around us and pray that the Lord will help prepare us for new challenges ahead.

Reality tells us that new troubles will come. Life touches some people with bouquets and others with thorn bushes. The first may find a wasp in the flowers, and the second may discover roses among the thorns. We may think that some people have it all, but if we turn the pages of their lives, we may see a very different picture.

For Christians, we’re blessed with the promise that Jesus will be with us. He gives us the power to overcome whatever circumstances come our way. “In the world you will have [trouble]; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33, NKJV).

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)