She Had Plans for Tibet
Billy Graham met Ruth Bell at Wheaton College in 1940. Ruth was the daughter of missionaries to China, and Billy was a young man passionate about his faith but uncertain about his calling.
Ruth initially wasn't interested. She had plans to return to Tibet as a single missionary. Billy was persistent but respectful. He wrote her letters. He prayed. He waited.
I Believe God Called Billy to Preach
What changed Ruth's heart was watching Billy preach. She saw his calling clearly, even when he doubted himself. "I believe God has called Billy to preach," she told a friend, "and I believe God is calling me to help him."
They married in 1943. Ruth became Billy's anchor. She raised their five children largely alone while Billy traveled the world preaching to millions. She counseled him, challenged him, and kept him grounded.
When Billy was tempted by pride, Ruth reminded him who he served. When he was discouraged, she pointed him back to Scripture. She turned down opportunities to travel with him, believing her calling was to make their home a haven.
The Secret of Billy's Ministry
"The secret of Billy's ministry," said a colleague, "is Ruth." For 63 years until her death in 2007, Ruth Graham demonstrated that God's call on a couple can be different but unified.
Ruth gave up her dream of Tibet. God gave her influence over billions through Billy's ministry. Sometimes the detour is the destination.
