If God isn’t concerned about us, or if He isn’t able to do anything about the evils in our world, then yes, it is useless to pray for world peace or anything else, for that matter.

But God isn’t like this! God loves us and is deeply concerned about the evils we face. Furthermore, He is all-powerful and is able to do something about them. This is why we can expect Him to answer our prayers according to His perfect will, including our prayers for peace among the nations and everything else that concerns us. Centuries ago, the prophet Isaiah declared, “Surely the arm of the Lord is not too short to save, nor his ear too dull to hear” (Isaiah 59:1).

Does this mean all evils would vanish if we just prayed hard enough? No it doesn’t, because evil is still real, and Satan is still at work. Only when Christ comes again and Satan’s power is broken will the world know true and lasting peace. But in the meantime, God commands us to pray for “all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness” (1 Timothy 2:2).

Take time today—and every day—to pray for our nation and its leaders. God is still at work, whether we realize it or not. And some day, He will bring about “a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells” (2 Peter 3:13).

Strengthen your prayer life:

• Read more answers and spiritual guidance on prayer
• Listen to past Billy Graham sermons on prayer

Have you ever prayed the sinner’s prayer? Follow these steps to accept Christ today.