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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Dear Rev. Graham: Education and sports are two things in society that seem to dictate lifestyle. Why is this so important; and if it is, should it be? I struggle to help my children choose what they should give their time to and whether it is important to go to a religious school versus a secular one. Many religious schools are not accredited and public education has been minimized to where teachers in many places are no longer required to teach reading, writing, and arithmetic. – C.S.

Dear C.S.: We can put a public school and university in the middle of every block of every American city, but we will never keep America from rotting morally by mere intellectual education. Choosing an educational pathway can be difficult. Some young people feel they should go to a secular college in order to have opportunities to witness for the Lord; others feel the need to receive Biblical training and have a strong Christian support group. Regardless, it is important to attend a fully accredited school. Research is a good place to start. Talk to others who have already been through this process. Talk to friends who have had experiences in both settings. Talk with family members and people at church, perhaps even school counselors and teachers, and share with them your thoughts, your apprehensions, and your goals.

The most important thing is to commit decisions to the Lord. He has a plan and purpose for our lives and it pleases Him when we take our cares to Him and ask Him to direct our decisions. Once God leads us in making a decision, we should not draw back. We must trust His leading and believe He goes before us – because He does. The most important decision anyone will ever make is the decision to follow Jesus Christ.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5–6, NKJV).

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