In yesterday’s devotional we looked at Daniel 11:32. 

In the second century B.C. a vile leader named Antiochus IV was wreaking havoc and destruction. He was persecuting God’s people and even set up pagan sacrifices in the Jerusalem temple. 

In response, a group of people remained true: “the people who know their God shall stand firm and take action.” No matter how many years have passed, their attitude and approach to life is very wise and enduring for people today who are also living through uncertain times. 

Over the next few devotionals, we’re going to unpack those three statements one-by-one. 

First, it says they “know their God.” 

So, to be clear, what do we need to know? Do we need to know everything from every channel and every news source all the time? No, we don’t. It’s actually bad for us. 

Do we need to doom scroll on social media all the time? No, we don’t. It’s actually bad for us. 

Having said that, is it good to be informed? Sure. But being well-informed and saturating ourselves with non-stop bad news are different things. 

Okay, back to our question. The most important thing (or, rather, being) for us to know is God.

He is always, good, holy, wise, loving, true. He is never not those things. Our eyes should be fixed more on the goodness of God than the badness of the world. 

Keep in mind that knowing God is different than knowing about God. Knowing God presumes intimacy and closeness. When things are dark and difficult, you only trust people you are close to. If you keep God at a distance, you will find it hard when things get hard.

Of all the things there are to know about in the information age, know God first. It gives perspective. It also helps to keep us focused on Christ, truth, love, and hope.

Let’s fix our eyes on the goodness of God more than on the badness of the world.

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Notes:

-“Know God. Stand Firm. Take Action.” Click here. Sermon.
-Bible quotes are from the ESV.