There are so many tragic, horrible stories from all around the world of people suffering at the hands of corrupt and rebellious rulers.

Sadly, this suffering is not something new. It has been happening for centuries.

However, there is hope for even the most horrible situations. Nelson Mandela (1918-2013), who served as the President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, made an indelible mark on the “page” of true and fair leadership.

On July 18, 2010, to commemorate Mandela’s ninety-second birthday, U.S. President Barak Obama said, “We are grateful to continue to be blessed with his extraordinary vision, leadership, and spirit. And we strive to build upon his example of tolerance, compassion, and reconciliation.”

Mandela was born into a situation he did not create, into a world over which he had little control. According to the rules of his country, he should not have amounted to anything. Yet his peaceful conviction of the value of every human life changed the course of history.

All throughout the Bible, you can see how important it is to let the peace of God govern your heart. In doing so, you will find it easier to live peacefully with those you call family, friends, and fellow citizens.