What does the Bible say about one daughter who is selfless and another daughter who is selfish and compares her success with her sister’s dull life?

on Jun 16, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I have one daughter who is selfless and another daughter who is selfish and compares her success with her sister’s dull life. What does the Bible say about this? – M.D.

A: Most people think of the “here and now” and are determined to do what’s good for today. While the Bible tells us not to worry about tomorrow, it does not mean we should not plan for tomorrow but to commit to God’s will (see Proverbs 3:5-6). But when we run through life doing what pleases us without giving thought to the consequences, we run the high risk of making very bad decisions that can lead to sin.

On the surface, many people appear satisfied and content. Sit and talk to them awhile. You may see a different picture. We may think by living for ourselves and doing what pleases us will lead to happiness, but we would do well to consider what’s on the other side of today.

Jesus told about the self-centered rich man who stored up riches for himself, thinking, “‘Take your ease; eat, drink, and be merry.’ But God said to him, ‘Fool! This night your soul will be required of you’” (Luke 12:19-20, NKJV).

Living without God may seem to promise everything, but its promises are hollow and leave us empty. Others live on a road labeled “God’s path.” They aren’t perfect; some may even have some rough edges to overcome, but still, there’s something different about them. Others look at them perplexed because when problems come, they have an inner peace. Someone without God cannot comprehend this mystery that is revealed when walking with the Lord.

Why is this? The Bible tells us that those who follow Christ will have trouble along the pathway; they’re not exempt from strife and grief, but in the midst, they experience the peace of God which transcends all understanding (see Philippians 4:7).

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