The Bible certainly urges Christ’s followers to be peacemakers, and to try to bring a greater measure of peace to our broken world. The Bible says, “Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace” (Romans 14:19).

Unfortunately, however, throughout history evil men have used religion as an excuse for hatred and war, not love and peace—and tragically, the same is true today. If everyone honestly wanted peace, then what you suggest might be possible—but sadly, not everyone wants peace. Instead, some are driven only by power and greed, and they will hide behind anything (including religion) to deceive people and make themselves look righteous. The Bible’s analysis is right: “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure. Who can understand it?” (Jeremiah 17:9).

This is why our greatest need is to have our hearts changed—and only God can do that, as we turn to Him in repentance and faith. Today more than ever, we need to pray for peace, and we need to pray for our world’s leaders.

But most of all, we need to pray that God will touch our hearts and turn us toward Himself. God loves us, and He wants to forgive us and change us from within—and He will, as we open our hearts to Christ. Have you discovered the greatest peace of all, which is peace with God? You can, by asking Christ into your life today.