Numbers 1-2
Mark 3:1-19

“For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.”    
—Philippians 1:21

What are some things that we regret not doing when we look back on our life? Considered one of the greatest evangelists in the twentieth century, the late Billy Graham was asked in an interview near the end of his life, What are some things that you regret in your lifetime? He gave three things. The first was him regretting not spending more time with his family. He said, “Every day I was absent from my family is gone forever. Although much of that travel was necessary, some of it was not.”

The second was not spending more time to know God more. He explained, “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.”

For a man who had a deep conviction and faith, known for loving God and leading millions of people to receive Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour, Billy Graham had a great hunger for God. The more he knew, the more he realized he wanted to know more. What a testament to the vastness of God! We can spend an entire lifetime getting to know God, and yet, there is still so much more to know. The good news for those of us who believe in Jesus Christ is that we will be spending all of eternity continuing to get to know Him and understand who He is.

The last regret that Billy Graham had was not spending more time with other Christians. He said, “And I would give more attention to fellowship with other Christians, who could teach me and encourage me (and even rebuke me when necessary).” As the body of Christ, we are meant to be in community with other believers for mutual encouragement and reprimanding.

Despite these three regrets, Graham pointed, “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.” As we consider our own life, what are some things that we regret not doing that we can do now? Our time on this earth is limited, may we be intentional in our relationship with God and with others.

Dear God, I desire to grow closer to You each day and be intentional in my relationship with others. I ask that You help guide my life to live each day for Your glory. Thank You, God.