S) "32 By smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will display strength and take action. 33 Those who have insight among the people will give understanding to the many; yet they will fall by sword and by flame, by captivity and by plunder for many days. 34 Now when they fall they will be granted a little help, and many will join with them in hypocrisy. 35 Some of those who have insight will fall, in order to refine, purge and make them pure until the end time; because it is still to come at the appointed time."
Daniel 11:32-35 (NASB)
O) These are the continued words of an angel of God, begun at Daniel 10:10, describing the end of time. This whole revelation is pieced together with other prophecies to shed some light on things that are still to come. While a great many mysteries still exist (a truth which can't really be overstated), we are given bits and pieces that begin showing us a bigger picture. While this passage certainly carries a warning, it may be for a time I never see. The same can be said for the promises it carries, too. However, there is a significant element, given in v.32, that applies immediately to every believer, I think.
A) This passage struck me first, giving me pause from conviction by the truth, "... the people who know their God will display strength and take action." I am guilty of inaction. But, I know my Bible pretty well. I know my God pretty well. And, the more I read and learn, the more I see that our God is a God of action. So, when I stop and think about who He is, really, then I am deeply convicted by my lack of action. The "display" that is described, is essentially the fruit of belief. We serve a God who requires our faith to be proven by our actions. James essentially echoed this same verse, expounding upon it further (see James 2:14-26). As we approach End Times (and we're constantly closer than yesterday, right?), then the need for our beliefs to prove themselves by our action, becomes more and more vital. Just as Daniel was prepared for the lions' den, by years of practicing his prayerful ways, I should be well-practiced in taking action, based on my knowledge of my God.
P) Father, I know that You are not a wasteful Lord. You did not redeem me, just so I could obsess about resisting temptations and attending church services. You redeemed me so that I would be used for Your greater purposes, according to Your will. As I implement the truths I am learning, understanding You more and more, I invite Your discipline into my life, Father. Teach me to be active, according to Your perfect will. Help me learn to abandon my own selfish desires, understanding the joy that comes from a purpose fulfilled. I want to be prepared for the worst, by acting on my faith, now. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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