The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham

Over the years since that first issue was published, Billy, despite
sprinting through his own ministry marathon, enabled the CTedi-
tors and trustees to always “know what Billy was thinking.” That
is because he consistently stayed true to his principles, and he
broke enough time out of his schedule at key junctures to make
sure the organization was moving consistently with its founder’s
mandate. When Harold Ockenga passed away in 1985, Billy finally
did accept the trustees’ urging that he become chairman of the
board. As the organization flourished with additional magazines
and related projects, Billy maintained a flow of letters and phone
calls filled with optimism, encouragement, and wisdom.
His foundational principles, however—seen throughout this
book—were the crucial elements that will continue long beyond
the time when he can no longer phone or write. Many times dur-
ing the past decades when the CTI leadership has faced critical
ethical and business decisions, we have asked, “What would Billy
do in this situation? What essentials from the mandate he laid
down, and the leadership he lived out over the years, would
apply to this new fork in the road?” Usually the answers related
primarily to moving forward with both love and integrity. Each
time the question has been asked, the choice of the road has
become clear.

LEADERSHIP

LESSONS | Birthing

Applying the Principles

Many of us dream about birthing something new, with our per-

sonal stamp on it. Just thinking of making such a dream become

reality quickens the pulse and stimulates the mind to create sce-

narios. Yet we also know the vast majority of such dreams evap-

orate with the dawn of reality.

Resources. Timing. Contacts. Talents. The list of necessities for

birthing dreams is long. But sometimes, with vision and persis-

tence, a dream actually becomes a force in the world.

The Leadership Secrets of Billy Graham