William Franklin Graham Jr., publicly known as Billy Graham, was an ordained Southern Baptist minister and a notable evangelical Christian figure who became internationally well-known during the late 1940s. He has also been recognized as “one of the most influential Christian leaders” of the 20th century.
Graham has said that his one purpose in life is to help people have a personal relationship with the Almighty. As a preacher, he held massive indoor and outdoor assemblies with sermons broadcast on television and radio. He has also preached alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and was particularly close to Dwight Eisenhower and even to Richard Nixon.
He helped shape the worldview of a massive number of people who came from various social backgrounds. As of 2008, Graham’s estimated record number of audience, including television and radio broadcasts, exceeded 2.2 billion. He preached the gospel to more people than anyone in the history of Christianity.
Below, you’ll find a collection of Billy Graham’s most memorable quotes—insightful words on life, love, grace, salvation, and beyond.
Fun fact: Graham once led a revival in a circus tent because all the churches in town were too small for the crowd!
Table of Contents
Billy Graham Quotes on Faith
My faith does not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.
(From his many sermons and writings)
Billy Graham often emphasized that true faith is not based on human reasoning but on the unshakable foundation of God’s power. His message reminds us to anchor our trust in something greater than ourselves.
Faith is taking the Gospel in, and letting it out.
(Sermon, “The Need for Faith,” 1957)
Graham believed that faith is both personal and active—receiving God’s message and sharing it with others.
Billy Graham Quotes on Hope
I’ve read the last page of the Bible. It’s all going to turn out all right.
(Billy Graham, interview)
Graham’s optimism was rooted in his confidence in God’s promises. This quote assures readers that no matter the challenges, hope remains.
God never takes away something from your life without replacing it with something better.
(Billy Graham, “Hope for the Troubled Heart”)
Hope, for Graham, was always linked to God’s goodness and faithfulness.
Billy Graham Quotes on Prayer
The Christian life is not a constant high. I have my moments of deep discouragement. I have to go to God in prayer with tears in my eyes and say, ‘O God, forgive me,’ or ‘Help me.’
(Billy Graham, various interviews)
Graham was honest about struggles and the need for sincere prayer. This transparency makes his message relatable and powerful.
Prayer is simply a two-way conversation between you and God.
(Billy Graham, “The Key to Personal Peace”)
He made prayer accessible, encouraging everyone to speak to God openly.
Billy Graham Quotes on Evangelism
Our evangelism must be Spirit-led, Christ-centered, and Bible-based.
(Billy Graham, “Approaching Hoofbeats”)
Graham’s mission was to bring the message of Christ to the world, always emphasizing authenticity and humility.
God has given us two hands, one to receive with and the other to give with.
(Billy Graham, various sermons)
His call to action was always about sharing blessings with others.
Billy Graham Quotes on Forgiveness
Forgiveness is an act of the will, and the will can function regardless of the temperature of the heart.
(Billy Graham, “Hope for Each Day”)
Graham reminded believers that forgiveness is a choice, not just a feeling.
God’s mercy and forgiveness are available to anyone who is willing to receive them.
(Billy Graham, “Peace with God”)
He offered hope for new beginnings.
Billy Graham Quotes on Life & Purpose
The purpose of life is to glorify God in whatever you do.
(Billy Graham, “Just As I Am”)
For Graham, meaning was found in serving God and others.
When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.
(Billy Graham, “Wisdom for Each Day”)
He frequently stressed the value of character and integrity.
Billy Graham Quotes on Love & Compassion
God proved His love on the Cross. When Christ hung, and bled, and died, it was God saying to the world, ‘I love you.’
(Billy Graham, sermon at the 1957 New York Crusade)
Graham’s core message was the love of God for all.
Nothing can bring a real sense of security into the home except true love.
(Billy Graham, “Day by Day”)
He believed in the transforming power of love within families and communities.
Hope for Tomorrow—With Graham’s Wisdom
Billy Graham’s words continue to offer hope, guidance, and inspiration for millions. His legacy as a preacher, author, and humanitarian endures—reminding us to live with faith, hope, love, and purpose. May these quotes encourage you on your journey, and may Graham’s timeless wisdom light your path forward.
