Jesus called His followers to be peacemakers, and those of us who are Christians should do whatever we can to live in peace. The Bible says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18).

Unfortunately, history tells us that religions haven’t always stood for peace or brotherhood, nor do they today. Even the Christian church has sometimes forgotten Jesus’ warning to Peter that “all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26:52). I am not a pacifist, and I believe nations and peoples have a right to defend themselves from aggression. But God’s work is advanced by the power of love, not the power of hate.

Have you ever asked yourself, however, why there are so many wars in the world? Why can’t we seem to get along? It isn’t just a question of poverty or social injustice or any of the other causes that are often mentioned (including religion). The Bible says there is a deeper problem—and that is the problem of the human heart. The wars in our world are but a mirror of the greed and hatred that war in our hearts.

This is why we need Christ, for only He can change our hearts and give us love for others. Has this happened to you? Even in a world of turmoil and conflict, we can have peace in our hearts when we know Christ.