"Divorce, No. Murder, Yes!"

I read an article about Billy and Ruth Graham keeping Jesus at the center of their 63-year marriage despite his worldwide ministry and traveling demands.

Billy stepped into ministry only a few years into their marriage, eventually becoming a world-renowned evangelist, lovingly deemed “America’s Pastor.”

While Ruth learned to accept Billy’s absence for long periods, Billy learned to tolerate Ruth’s outspoken and independent nature. Despite their life’s obstacles and challenges, Billy and Ruth always kept Jesus “front and center” in their marriage.

One way they kept Jesus first was by praying together daily. Billy said if they were together, they always held hands and prayed before going to sleep. If he was traveling, he called every day so they could talk and pray before the day ended.

Billy and Ruth also committed to honoring Jesus by honoring their vows. They pledged to avoid situations that gave even the appearance of compromise or suspicion. Likewise, they promised to stay the course in their marriage, even when things were difficult. When asked if she ever considered divorcing her husband, Ruth stated humorously, “Divorce, no. Murder, yes!”

Billy and Ruth celebrated 63 years of wedded bliss together before she died, leaving a legacy of character and faith for millions to follow. Their story demonstrates the powerful impact “keeping Jesus first” can have in marriage despite the inevitable challenges it brings.

What about you? Is Jesus at the center of your marriage? What things do you incorporate into your relationship to put Jesus “front and center?” I would love to hear about them and pray for you, so comment below.