In many ways, Billy Graham has been around the world. But the “Ambassador of God” has always had his heart set on a special place in his home country, the United States, where he has lived all 99 years of his life.
As the United States celebrates Independence Day, these 10 quotes are a reminder of how Mr. Graham loved his nation and desperately wanted to see his American friends know the peace and love of God.
“The secret power of the nation lies in the faith in the hearts and homes of the country.” – From day to day Billy Graham
“We have stood in many places in the United States, but on this day of independence I call on the American people to bow down before God and kneel as Washington and Lincoln called us on their knees many years ago. No nation is taller than when it kneels. I submit that we can best honor America by dedicating ourselves to God and the American dream. ”- Billy Graham Message of July 4, 1970
“While we are on this earth, we have dual citizenship. On the one hand we have loyalty to our nation and we are called upon to be good citizens. But we are also citizens of God’s kingdom. Our highest allegiance is Him.” – The journey
“I do not see how anyone can study American history without recognizing the religious influence that helped create this nation in the beginning. There are no basic documents for another nation from which we can find many proofs of loyalty to God. Back in our history there have been calls for a ‘Supreme Judge’ to build a new nation. This free thought of the rights of all men wherever they are is unique among nations. ” – From Billy Graham’s New Year’s Eve Message 1975
“Our nation has strengthened at a time when moral standards have been strengthened, and it will weaken when we support what we once condemned.” -By Billy Graham in Quotes
“I believe that every problem we face in the United States is basically a spiritual problem. Sin is a spiritual problem. Inflation is a spiritual problem. Corruption is a spiritual problem. Social injustice is a spiritual problem. to defend our freedom is a spiritual crisis. ” -1975
“It is right and proper that our country should be respected, its freedom celebrated and its praise sung. But this can be violated when we make it a substitute for God. We respect America but we do not worship it. ” -1970
“I would compete with every American who is deeply committed and worthy to consider running for office. I do not believe in being a Christian. I need honest men and women and determination. a Christian who will run for political office. ” -1975
“Lord… remind us today that you have shown us the good things that you want from us; to work righteousness, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with our God. We ask that as a people, we humble ourselves before you and seek your will for ourselves and this great nation. Help us as a nation to move forward to strengthen our families and to give our children hope and a foundation for future morality. Now it is our desire to serve you, and to do so. – From the prayers of Billy Graham during the inauguration of President Bill Clinton in 1997
“I believe the United States has come a long way. If we ever needed God’s help, it is now.” – From Billy Graham: God’s Ambassador
