Living in the Era of Evil Times

We are living in the era of evil times, and none of us knows when or where evil will strike. The Bible reminds us of this reality in 1 Peter 5:8: “Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” This warning tells us that the enemy is real, active, and relentless in his schemes. But it also calls us to be steadfast in our faith, watchful, and ready to resist.

On this very date, September 10, 2025, we are reminded of the many faces of evil. A manhunt continues for the killer of Charlie Kirk, a charismatic right-wing activist, a man of God, and a close ally of President Trump. He was tragically shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The Bible tells us that Christians will be persecuted, and this act reminds us of that sobering truth.

Meanwhile, in Evergreen, Colorado, three students—including the attacker—were left in critical condition after a horrific school shooting. Innocent lives, taken and wounded at such a young age. When will the madness stop? I truly do not know. But I trust and believe that “the madness” will only end when Jesus Christ Himself returns to establish His kingdom.

The Bible makes it clear that before this glorious return, believers will face hardship, persecution, and tribulation (Matthew 24:9–13; John 16:33). Yet we are called to endure, to stand firm, and to keep our eyes fixed on the hope of His coming.

These tragedies show us that evil is not bound by location or circumstance—it can strike in our schools, our communities, and even against those who speak boldly in public life. Evil reveals itself through violence, hatred, lies, division, greed, corruption, and the destruction of innocent lives.

In times like these, we must remember that our battle is not against flesh and blood but against the spiritual forces of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). That is why we must stand firm, put on the full armor of God, and cover this world in prayer—not just our nation, but the entire world that is broken and in desperate need of Christ’s saving grace.

Let us pray for comfort for the families affected, wisdom for our leaders, protection for our communities, and repentance for a world drifting further from God. And let us each resolve to live faithfully, courageously, and prayerfully in these days of trial, knowing that one day the Lord will return, and His kingdom will have no end.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,
We come before You with heavy hearts in these troubling times. Lord, evil seems to surround us, but we know that You are greater than the darkness. Comfort the families of those who have lost loved ones. Heal the wounded. Give strength to Your people who are persecuted for Your name.

Father, we ask for Your protection over our schools, our communities, and our nation. We pray for wisdom and courage for our leaders and for every believer to stand firm in faith. Remind us, O Lord, that though the enemy prowls, You are our refuge, our fortress, and our Deliverer.

We long for the day when Jesus Christ will return to establish His kingdom of peace and righteousness. Until then, keep us faithful, prayerful, and steadfast in Your Word.

In Jesus’ mighty name we pray, Amen.