I know the world is in terrible shape, but will things always be this way? I'd like to be optimistic about the future, but sometimes I wonder what it holds for my grandchildren and whether or not they'll have a better world when they grow up. — Mrs. N.C.

The Bible says that lasting peace will only come when Christ returns to set up His Kingdom. Only then will all evil be banished and the world will know perfect peace.

Until that day, however, you and I live in a world that is twisted and torn by sin. This doesn't mean we'll never have periods of peace, or that the world won't become better in some ways. The Bible tells us to pray for peace, and Jesus said, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God" (Matthew 5:9). Your grandchildren also may live in a world with more diseases under control and less poverty and tyranny.

But the world will always have problems—and in fact the Bible says they will increase as this present age draws to a close: "Evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived" (2 Timothy 3:13). Satan is real, and in the last days he will unleash his full fury against everything good that God is doing.

Why is the world this way? Why are wars and conflicts a permanent part of human life? The reason is within our own hearts and minds. Instead of loving others, we're driven by greed and power and selfishness. Only Christ can change our hearts and transform our lives—and He will, as we turn our lives over to Him. Has this happened in your life?