It’s a question that rarely gets asked out loud: if we are waiting for the return of Jesus, what has God been doing while the world seems to spiral into chaos? If you watch the news or look around, the corruption, the violence, and the dark things people are capable of can make it feel like God is just sitting back, letting it all happen. But the Bible paints a very different picture.

God Is Not Idle

Jesus himself said, “My Father is always at his work to this very day, and I too am working.” – John 5:17. This makes it clear: God is active, even when it doesn’t look like it. The delay of Jesus’ return isn’t indifference; it’s mercy. “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise… He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish.” – 2 Peter 3:9. Time is being given for people to choose repentance, for souls to be saved, and for history to unfold according to God’s plan.

Free Will, Evil, and Divine Control

Some imagine God as a chess master, moving pieces around, trying to control every evil act. The Bible shows a more nuanced picture. It says God is sovereign and holds ultimate control: “He works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.” – Ephesians 1:11. But humans also have free will: “Choose this day whom you will serve.” – Joshua 24:15. God allows people to act freely, even when they do evil, while still working toward his ultimate plan.

The Reality of Corruption and Darkness

Scripture does not deny the presence of corruption and evil. Jesus called Satan “the ruler of this world” – John 12:31, and Paul referred to him as “the god of this age” – 2 Corinthians 4:4. The reality we see today, from proven cases like the Epstein files to growing awareness of elite corruption, fits this biblical pattern: the world is temporarily under the influence of evil, but God has not abandoned it. He is restraining the worst of the evil, and judgment is coming.

What God Is Doing Right Now

So what is God doing while the world seems chaotic? Scripture gives several answers:

1. Holding history together: “In Him all things hold together.” – Colossians 1:17

2. Restraining evil: “For the secret power of lawlessness is already at work; only he who now restrains it will do so until he is taken out of the way.” – 2 Thessalonians 2:6–7

3. Calling people to repentance through conscience, conviction, and the Gospel.

4. Preparing the final culmination of history as described in the Book of Revelation.

Why Evil Isn’t Stopped Immediately

If God instantly stopped all evil, he would have to override human free will—and possibly eliminate humanity itself. The biblical narrative shows history as a courtroom drama: evidence of good and evil is revealed, corruption is exposed, human rebellion is displayed, and judgment comes at the appointed time. What looks like inactivity is actually restraint, mercy, and divine planning unfolding over centuries.

Where We Are Today

We are living in a time where corruption at the highest levels is visible, where the structures of power appear to be influenced by evil, and where global changes—financial, political, and cultural—are accelerating. The Bible calls this a season of revelation and testing. History is moving fast toward a final reckoning, and according to scripture, God is actively guiding it, even if we can’t see the full picture yet.

Conclusion

So the next time you wonder, “What is God doing?” remember that, according to scripture, He is not idle. He is restraining evil, holding creation together, calling people to repentance, and preparing the ultimate culmination of history. While we witness chaos, corruption, and darkness, the Bible assures us that God’s plan is unfolding and judgment is coming. For those paying attention, this is a time to stay aware, stay faithful, and watch history move toward its final act.

The Bible also warns that in the last days, the world will move toward a centralized system of power, with a global authority influencing politics, commerce, and worship. Revelation speaks of the mark of the beast and the rise of this worldwide power that will test the faith of all people (Revelation 13:16–18). What we see happening today—financial control, consolidation of political influence, and pressures on global religious practices—can be seen as a preview of this prophetic vision. Evil will continue to operate in the world, but God’s sovereignty and ultimate justice are absolute, and nothing escapes His notice.

Even amidst trials, corruption, and deception, believers are called to remain vigilant, discerning, and faithful. As Paul reminds us, “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21). History is moving quickly toward its appointed conclusion, and God is firmly in control every step of the way.