Over the past several months we have been spending some time with Daniel. When he was captured, he was most likely around 15-years-old. At the end of the book, he was in his late 80’s or early 90’s.After the Babylonian captivity had formally ended, many of his people were allowed to return to their homeland. We … Continue reading Being a part of a plan even when life isn’t going as planned
putting God first
Focus on what’s best
1 Corinthians 10:31 is well-known. That’s where Paul writes: “whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”Several years ago, I was discussing this verse with a group of high school students. One of the students asked: ‘Why does God want us to focus on him so much? Isn’t that kind of selfish? … Continue reading Focus on what’s best
Knowing God first
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 … Continue reading Knowing God first
Our God is never not on the move
In Daniel 5 the king was perplexed by some mysterious writing on a wall. Since Daniel had developed a reputation as a wise man, he was summoned to help. In exchange for this help the king would give him rewards and status. In response, Daniel said: “Let your gifts be for yourself, and give your rewards … Continue reading Our God is never not on the move
God uses faithful servants—no matter their age
“Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, ‘May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!’” (Daniel 6:16)When you picture Daniel in the lion’s den, what do you see? A young vibrant man full of vigour and prayerful bravery?As I often tell … Continue reading God uses faithful servants—no matter their age
Glorifying him or denying him
Daniel’s three friends were told to bow to the king’s statue. If they did, they would live. If they didn’t bow they would burn. They refused. “…even if he does not [rescue us],” they said, “…we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up” (Daniel 3:18).Let me share … Continue reading Glorifying him or denying him
Prepare for big moments by starting small
In yesterday’s devotional we talked about having an “even if” kind of faith. This was based on the words of Daniel’s three friends. They were told to bow down to the king’s statue. If they didn’t, they would be thrown into a fiery furnace. They had two options: Bow or burn. But they said No. “If … Continue reading Prepare for big moments by starting small
Having an “even if” kind of faith
It was a ruthless time. Daniel’s three friends—Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—were threatened with death. If they didn’t bow down to the king’s statue they would be thrown into a fiery furnace. The king gave them one last chance—bow or burn.In response, this is what the young men said: “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, … Continue reading Having an “even if” kind of faith
When everything is stripped away
“In the third year of the reign of Jehoiakim king of Judah, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon came to Jerusalem and besieged it” (Daniel 1:1). And with that, Daniel and his friends—and many others—were exiled to Babylon.As I study the book of Daniel, I’m struck by the abject calamity which came up on him:His ancestors had rejected … Continue reading When everything is stripped away
“I’m doing this for God’s glory!” Um, really?
[1-week pause alert. See notification at the end of today's devotional.] ~ In 1 Corinthians 10:31 Paul writes: “whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”It’s a famous verse. It reminds us to give God the glory no matter what. It’s not about us; it’s about him.When we feel overlooked or taken … Continue reading “I’m doing this for God’s glory!” Um, really?
