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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Dear Rev. Graham: There are many peace talks happening right now, and I’m hoping and praying that negotiations between the nations can come to fruition. Since 9/11 particularly, people are ready to have some quietness on the world stage and a sigh of relief in their hearts. Is it foolish to pray for something that likely will not happen? – P.Q.

Dear P.Q.: Most people yearn for one thing more than anything else: inner peace. Without it, they have no lasting joy or security. The word peace is used in the Bible in three main ways. First, there is spiritual peace – peace between God and man. Second, there is psychological peace – peace within. Third, there is relational peace – peace among mankind.

The Bible says that sin has destroyed or seriously affected all three of these dimensions of peace. When man was created, he was at peace with God and with himself. But when he rebelled against God, man lost peace in every way. These dimensions of peace can be restored. Man cannot bring this about, but God certainly can and has.

Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace” (John 16:33). To have peace, we must possess the Peace-Giver. Christ can bring peace to every heart, but each person must repent, confess, commit, and surrender to Christ first. Right now, it can be settled, and people can know the peace, joy, and fellowship with God, with themselves, and with others. God desires that all people know perfect peace. “He Himself is our peace. …  And He came and preached peace to you who were afar off and to those who were near” (Ephesians 2:14–17, NKJV).

We can have peace with God, peace within ourselves, and peace with each other.

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)