On Nov. 7, 1918, Billy Graham was born in Charlotte, North Carolina, just four days before the end of World War I. The son of a dairy farmer, he grew up during the Depression and was familiar with hard work—a quality that would serve him well in the coming years.
At 15, while attending a revival meeting with traveling evangelist Mordecai Ham, he decided to commit his life to Jesus Christ and went on to follow the extraordinary path God had carved out for him.
Before his passing in February 2018 at age 99, Billy Graham preached the Gospel to nearly 215 million people in more than 185 countries and territories—and to millions more via television, video, film, and webcasts. Today, the Billy Graham Library serves as an ongoing Crusade, telling the story of how God can use a life fully surrendered to Him, no matter someone’s age, background, or upbringing.
In this message from 1975, Billy Graham reminded us that throughout history, the Lord has worked through ordinary people to accomplish His great purposes—and He can do the same with you.
“Today in America, there is a man who could turn the nation upside down for Christ, if he went all out. There is a young woman whom God could mightily use right now to help fill the great spiritual vacuum we see developing in Western society.
“Remember the story of Gideon in the Bible? God spoke to him one day and said, ‘Gideon, I want you to lead My people, to be their judge and their leader. If you will be My man, I will be with you and we will defeat the armies of the enemies of Israel.’
“Or look at Noah. He spent years building the ark. … God told him to build the ship on dry land and Noah knew that people would say he was crazy.
“Moses was 80 years old, living on the backside of the desert when God came to him one day and said, ‘I am the Lord your God, and I want you to go and lead the people of Israel out of Egypt.’
“All it takes is one. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link. Every link is necessary. You are a link in God’s chain, in God’s plan to proclaim the Gospel to the whole world. … All you need is God. If you are totally surrendered and totally dedicated, you can say, ‘Lord, here’s my hand with all I have.’ … He can use you.”
This excerpt is taken from the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association’s 75th anniversary devotional and prayer journal. Request this free book where you’ll find more spiritual encouragement in daily devotions from Billy Graham, Franklin Graham, and Will Graham—one for each year, from 1950 to 2025.