Peace with God: The Secret Happiness

by Billy Graham

It May Not Be a Coincidence That This Book Has Crossed Your Path... In Peace with God Dr. Billy Graham asks God to help this book “find its way into the hands and hearts of a lost, confused, and searching world . . . men, women, and young people everywhere [who] thirst for peace with God.” In spite of a life drenched with responsibilities and rewards, are you thirsting? Searching for some nameless thing that is more important than anything in life? You are not alone. All mankind is seeking the answer to the confusion, the moral sickness, the spiritual emptiness that oppresses the world. All humanity is crying out for guidance, for comfort . . .for peace. Dr. Graham shares God’s gentle, reassuring promise of spiritual calm—of authentic personal peace—amidst a personal life wracked with too much stress, too many burdens, too great a heartache. “I know men who would write a check for a million dollars if they could find peace,” writes Dr. Graham. “Millions are searching for it. But we Christians have found it! It is ours now and forever. We have found the secret of life! . . .When your spouse dies or your children get sick or you lose your job, you can have a peace that you don’t understand. You may have tears at a graveside, but you can have an abiding peace, a quietness. “God’s peace can be in your heart—right now . . .Whatever the circumstances, whatever the call, whatever the duty, whatever the price, whatever the sacrifice—His strength will be your strength in your hour of need. “It’s all yours, and it’s free. You don’t have to work for it . . . . Do not put it off.”

Genres: Christian, Religion, Nonfiction, Theology, Christianity, Christian Living, Spirituality

304 pages, Paperback

First published November 30, 1953

About the author

Billy Graham was an American evangelical Christian evangelist and an ordained Southern Baptist minister. Graham is best known for his evangelistic missions or “Crusades.” He believed God knew no borders or nationalities. Throughout his career, Graham preached to millions around the world. He met and prayed with every U. S. president from Dwight Eisenhower to Barack Obama.

Graham authored 34 books, including his memoir, Just As I Am. In 1983, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Ronald Reagan. In 1996, Graham and his wife, Ruth, received the Congressional Gold Medal, the highest award Congress can bestow on a private citizen.

Graham married Wheaton College classmate Ruth Bell Graham in 1943. They had five children ( Ruth Graham, Gigi Graham Tchividjian, Anne Graham Lotz, Nelson, & Franklin Graham) and made their home in the mountains of North Carolina. They were married for 64 years before Ruth’s death in 2007. Graham died from natural causes on February 21, 2018, at his home in Montreat, North Carolina, at the age of 99.

Reviews

[Nathaniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was so good. I’ve been working on strengthening my relationship with God and this had a lot of good pointers. I am looking forward to reading more from Billy Graham.

[Jack Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding comprehensive book about peace with God and that peace within when one prepares oneself to be a worthy vessel for His Holy Spirit. Billy Graham is a master, dare one say, "Prophet," in sharing the Word of God.

This book is first published in 1953 and updated only to address the current times but not to change the ancient message left for humanity. Peace with God teaches the novice Christian God's will and jogs the memory of the diluted Christian into reality so that they may be at peace in this world of chaos. Such attainment is having the peace of God within which surpasses all understanding.

Graham elaborates why peace with God is vital for salvation on the Day of Judgment. In a time of self-absorption, sin is prevalent in a sin-laden people. In a time when the devil rules this world, Satan's deceptive ways fool many into becoming his servant by drawing them further away from God's will. When success in the world places man's pride above God and people seek their own desires, especially of the flesh, Evil wins the battle for the souls of everyone the Father loves. Peace with God is the voice God uses through his humble servant, Dr. Billy Graham, to remind the world that He, Elohim, Abba, I Am is the only power in all existence and His will must be done through Christ Jesus to achieve eternal peace, joy, and bliss in heaven.

[Shushant · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is a masterpiece. I read this book as new Christian and I think I will continue reading and referring to this book again and again.This is one of the most simply worded books I have ever read. It is profound and at the same time practical. It makes you think and explains many tough questions easily.

[Winter Sophia Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gripping, Comforting & Powerful! This Book Changed Me!! I Truly Loved It!

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent book. Similar in topic to Mere Christianity. Much different writing style and more comprehensive.

[Kayla Bonebrake · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an amazing book. I picked this up randomly at a yard sale and cracked it open one night not knowing if I would find anything in it interesting or useful. While this book is written for folks who are either on the fence about Christianity or just beginning their journey, I found it packed with insights that got me thinking about things I never had before. Mr. Graham really does have a talent to explain the basics of the bible in common terms.

[Pug · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good way to start the year. :)
An older book (1984!?), but just as relevant (maybe more so) as ever. Wonderful Billy Graham.

[Dustan Holland · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a difficult book for me to review. Initially, I wanted to read this because I have been trying to expand my knowledge of Christianity and increase my understanding of God and to stay involved with the teachings of Christ. I grew up in the south and have heard the name Billy Graham throughout my whole life. So I decided I'd check out one of his first books.

First and foremost this book is intended for new Christians, or those that have yet to follow Christ. It covers all the main areas regarding salvation, the perils of sin, and God's love for us. It reads like one long sermon, which I suppose it is. The main goal of this book, is for the reader to accept Jesus Christ as our only savior, and to look to Him for all things.

Therein lies the difficulty in reviewing the book. I've already accepted Christ. So a lot of the message I've heard before. Granted, it may be the greatest message there is, but I feel like I've already read this book. I was hoping to delve deeper.

However, it is good to be reminded to treat others with kindness and to serve the poor and downtrodden. I do not do that enough. It's also good to be reminded about all that Christ has done for us, the ultimate price he paid.

I would recommend this book to anyone interested in the basic doctrine of Christianity (there is a more Protestant message here, but the main theme is the same for all sects). Billy Graham's writing style is easy to follow, and you can tell he truly wants others to follow Christ.

[Kenny Pecher · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think Billy was an amazing follower of Christ. I enjoyed much of this book, but I have a hard time with statements that begin with "God is 'trying'..." etc.
I don't believe that God is shocked or surprised by anything ever, since He is omniscient. He is in complete control of the entire salvation process, and without His Divine intervention, it is absolutely impossible for man to take a true stride toward Him. God has chosen who His children are and He is the One Who opens their eyes to recognize who their Father is. It happens in His time and not a second before. Not only that, but He also keeps the ones that He calls His own.
So yeah... Billy is awesome, but I think he and I would have agreed to disagree on a few of the things that he said in this book. We AGREE on way more than we disagree though.
I'll see ya soon, Billy!

[Crystal · Rating 3 out of 5]

Worth reading! Worth sharing. I've taken a lot of notes with this one, too. We're never ever ever beyond growing and learning more about how to live out our faith in truth and peace. Especially from one of our greatest elders!

[Leslie Jebaraj · Rating 5 out of 5]

My first taste of systematic theology! I was in my teens when I devoured every word of it. It laid the foundation for my understanding of Christianity.

[SoulSurvivor · Rating 4 out of 5]

Romans 5:1

[Bilbo · Rating 3 out of 5]

Excerpts:
"All through the Old Testament, God gave man the promise of salvation if by faith he would believe in the coming Redeemer. Therefore God began to teach His people that man could only be saved by substitution. Someone else would have to pay the penalty for man's redemption. (91)

. . . God demands death, either for the sinner or a substitute. Christ was the substitute! . . . On the cross He was made sin. He was God-forsaken. Because He knew no sin there is a value beyond comprehension in the penalty He bore, a penalty that He did not need for Himself. If in bearing sin in His own body He created a value that He did not need for Himself, for whom was the value created?

. . . I know only one thing--He bore my sins in His body upon the tree. He hung where I should have hung. The pains of hell that were my portion were heaped on Him, and I am able to go to heaven and merit that which is not my own, but is His by every right. All the types, the offerings, the shadows, and the symbols of the Old Testament were now fulfilled. (99)

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone. The clarity throughout is remarkable. Alot of so-called "Christian" books can be hard to follow, but that's not the case with this one.

The saving of your soul is serious business. As Mr. Graham states, "do not put it off". I have always considered myself to be a Christian but I didn't realize how far off the mark I was until reading this book. This book has inspired me to repent and begin anew in my commitment to Christ and I believe it can inspire you too. If it does not inspire you, please ask yourself why. It may be for the very same reason Christ was, and continues to be, rejected by so many. Are you curious? Are you interested in eternal peace? Do you care about saving yourself and/or others? Are you doubtful about the message of Jesus Christ? Whatever your motives are, please give this book a chance. It might just be the very thing you need.

[Greg · Rating 3 out of 5]

"But though our heads are crammed with knowledge, our hearts are empty."

Billy Graham, in this book from the 50's, gives an impassioned plea on behalf of Christian faith. I'm not that familiar with Graham's work, but my impression is that this book mirrors his Crusades and speeches throughout his career. His message was direct and unambiguous. For people interested in the Christian life, Graham has much to say to you. While this book is grounded directly in the Bible, I prefer other writers.


See my other reviews here!

[Shirley Kummer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anyone who knows me , knows how much I have loved and respected Billy Graham. His ministry continues on and his organization sent me this book which I was thrilled to receive. I have many of his books and this one is written in the same style as all his other ones. Very systematicly outlined, very understandable, & very much highlighting how easy it is to follow in the ways of God. He wrote about the past, present and future where peace and hope can be experienced when we receive Jesus as our Savior, & seek fellowship with God. It was obvious to me how much Billy has loved all of us and wanted to make sure we know that the gift of salvation is ours to receive.

[L8blmr · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a Christmas gift from a young friend and I was astonished to see that it was initially published in 1953 and revised in 1984. It is surprisingly relevant today, excepting, of course, the presence of references to current events. Dr. Graham wrote eloquently and sincerely, as one might expect and his concern for the "world in crisis" (as he saw it so long ago) was apparent and heartfelt. I don't believe there will ever be another man like Dr. Graham, of whom there was never a breath of scandal and who devoted so many years to the cause of Christ. It was refreshing to read this book and it didn't feel dated at all. I suppose you could call it a "classic."

[Guguk · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baca buku ini rasanya kayak ngulang kembali apa yang seharusnya sudah diketahui, tapi yang―entah karena lelah, entah karena kelewat banyak terpapar dengan hal-hal lain―ternyata sudah lama terlupakan. Kayak pengembara yang kesasar dan lupa arah tujuan semula, terus tiba-tiba ketemu papan penunjuk jalan. Atau juga seperti masuk ke toko mainan lawas di pasar, yang begitu liat-liat, "Loh dulu aku kan punya mainan pancing-pancingan itu! Tapi punyaku udah lama ilang..."

Rasanya jadi bertumpuk dan ada bermacam-macam rasa (^///^) termasuk rasa kangen ke orang-orang yang nggak bisa aku temui lagi di dunia ini.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

But though our heads are crammed with knowledge, our hearts are empty.

For those coming to the Gospel unable to grasp the complexity and simplicity of what it is and what God requires of us as Believers, this is a very good book. I don't agree with all of Graham's theology, and I found his opinions about current events outdated at times (this book is from 1953, after all, that's to be expected), but it lays things out in simple terms that anyone could understand without dumbing down the infinite love and justice of the Lord at all. I'm glad to own a copy.

[Rodrigo Santos · Rating 3 out of 5]

Com todo respeito ao autor, que aliás é um dos, senão o maior evangelista dos últimos anos, achei o livro bom principalmente para quem for “novo convertido”, pois apresenta todo o plano de salvação e a caminhada cristã. Achei o livro muito grande em conteúdo, talvez se fosse mais reduzido e objetivo seria melhor. E por fim, não concordo com todas as visões teológicas do autor, apesar de respeitar. Mas a leitura foi boa.

[Tabitha Gallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Billy Graham has always been a wonderful story teller because he always keeps everything simple, yet very interesting. This book is no exception as it covers foundational truths for life and how to live. This book is good for anyone to read. If you are not a believer, this will give you some insight into the life of a believer, and if you are a believer it is for the new believer or the mature believer.

[Adam Chandler · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice little book by the evangelist Billy Graham. It is meant to be something more introductory to the Christian faith, that is, written for lay people who have not had much time in the Bible yet. Therefore, Graham tries to write about mere Christianity (the basics all denominations agree upon) although he does lean Baptist from time to time. While not a book for seasoned theologians, it is a nice easy read to understand Graham's approach.

[Alyssa Benoit · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a good overview of the faith and had great practical application for a believer of any stage be a new believer or a mature child of Zion. With that said, I am also reading Paul Washer’s series Recovering the Gospel which also gives a great overview of the Christian Life, a bit more “wordy” but absolutely amazing with no-nonsense biblical teaching. These two book in comparison do discuss many of the same teachings but Washer’s is much more in depth with answer the “why”.

[Jan Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful road map to heaven and Peace with God

This is the 1st book I've read by Billy Graham and won't be my last. I have to admit I never paid a lot of attention to Him when he was alive. This book has a good map for everyone to follow, you won't need a GPS, you need to read this book and change your life before it's too late.

[William · Rating 5 out of 5]

An outstanding description of the state of man without God and what man needs to do to get right with God. This book is exceptionally thorough on all aspects of modern and now post modern life. This is meant for non-believers to learn about God and for believers to know more about God and to answer questions from non-believers. Written in 1953 and revised in 1984 it still resonates in 2018.

[Allen Steele · Rating 3 out of 5]

Billy Graham explains why we need a savior, the devil, our own evil hearts, then lays out what God's plan is. Lastly, he goes over HOPE: in our future, hope in Christ, hope for the world and things to yet to come. A little dated, written in 1984 during Ronald Reagan administration, it refers a few times to things of that time. Good foundational Christian Doctrine Book.

[Tony · Rating 5 out of 5]

absolutely at peace

This book is a must for every one. It delivers the message of the Gospel in the most wonderful and convicting way I have ever heard. The Gospel of salvation through Jesus Christ is for everyone. Those who ignore it will wish they had not but it might be too late. Act on it now while there is still time. There is not even a minute to waste.

[Ariana · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was expecting a more interesting book. This book didn’t meet my expectations nor did it go above and beyond what I imagined. Perhaps I just don’t like how Billy writes. It was a very dull read for me. Overall, it’s a decent, simple book. Nothing as amazing as C.S. Lewis’s books or A.W. Tozer’s books.

[Courtney | Lasting Joy Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phenomenal. Whether you are a brand new Christian, or someone who’s been a Christian for a long time, this book is for all. Originally written in the 1950s and later revised in the 1980s, it’s truth still rings true. Still current and relevant now in 2018. Everyone needs to read this book!

[Michael R.H. Stewart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Required Reading

This book (apparently Rev. Graham's first) should be required reading for EVERY Christian. Writing for the new believer, this marvelous book answers questions even the seasoned Christian might not think to ask.