The Bible certainly indicates that evil will become more intense just before Christ returns to establish His Kingdom. The Bible says that in those final days “evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived” (2 Timothy 3:13).

Why will this happen? The reason is because those days will mark the approach of Satan’s final defeat—and he will do everything he can to fight against it. Never forget that the devil has one primary goal: to stop God’s work in the world. Just as he tried to tempt Jesus at the beginning of His ministry and turn Him away from God’s plan, so he will try to stop Christ’s second coming and turn people away from God’s plan. But Jesus said, “Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21:31).

But listen: Satan will not be successful! In fact, he is already a defeated foe, for the decisive battle between God and Satan has already taken place. It was fought when Jesus went to the cross for our sins, and the victory was won when He rose again from the dead. The final battle still remains to be fought, but the outcome is not in doubt!

Are these the final days before Christ’s return? They may well be—but even if they aren’t, our calling is to be faithful to Christ, no matter what happens. Is this your goal?