More than eight decades ago, Billy and Ruth Graham made one of the most important decisions of their lives—to commit themselves to one another in marriage. On Friday, Aug. 13, 1943, they exchanged vows at Montreat Presbyterian Church in North Carolina, beginning a marriage that would span nearly 64 years and leave a lasting legacy of faith. Together, they raised five children, welcomed 19 grandchildren, and faithfully served the Lord throughout their lives.

As we mark what would have been their 83rd wedding anniversary, reflect on Billy and Ruth’s timeless wisdom for those who are married or preparing for marriage.

A Lasting Marriage

A person engaged to be married once asked Billy Graham how they could build a marriage that would stand the test of time. His answer reflected the foundation that sustained his and Ruth’s marriage:

“The most important thing you can do is to build your marriage on God and His will for your lives. As my wife used to say, a strong marriage actually needs to include three people: the husband, the wife—and God. Begin your life together, therefore, by committing your lives and your marriage to Jesus Christ.”

Read his full answer.

A Marriage That Grows

As a young woman, Ruth believed God was calling her to become an international missionary like her parents—but He had a different plan for her life. When she met Billy Graham, Ruth recognized his deep love for the Lord and trusted God to establish and strengthen their future marriage. In a poem, she prayerfully reflected on a love that steadily grows and matures through time:

Train our love …
Discipline it, too …
Deepen it
throughout the years,
age and mellow it
until, time that finds us
old without,
within,
will find us
lovers still.

—Through the Years, by Ruth Bell Graham

Seeking God’s Will in Marriage

“How do I know if I’m marrying the right person?” Billy Graham was asked this question often, and his answer was always the same: seek God’s will first. Billy Graham said:

“God gave marriage to us; He not only created it, but He also gave us the rules by which it should be governed. When we put God at the center of our marriage, we’ll seek His will in everything, and not just our own selfish ways. Love and purity will guide our relationship, and our desire will be to respect and please each other, not just ourselves. … God loves you, and He knows what is best for you. Don’t let fears from the past hold you in their grip, but ask God to make His will clear.”

Read his full answer.

More than eight decades after their wedding day, Billy and Ruth Graham’s marriage remains a powerful example of God’s faithfulness and the lasting strength of a Christ-centered marriage.

To learn more about their remarkable love story, visit the Billy Graham Library and experience The Journey of Faith tour. Before you leave, stop by Ruth’s Attic Bookstore to browse Ruth Bell Graham’s collections of poetry and books filled with Biblical wisdom for marriage and the Christian life. Plan your visit and book your free ticket or explore upcoming events at the Billy Graham Library.