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The Word gives us answers to our basic questions; how we should live and how we can be victorious in life. Reading over the last few weeks in Daniel 1-12, I’ve learned how Daniel was disciplined in the ways of the Lord. He dreamed big dreams and prayed for God’s guidance. I’ve learned that we can have the courage to stand up to others who put pressure to worship idols in this world rather than be committed to the ONE and only God.
This day, put God in charge. Ask for advice, for humility, and restoration. Like a tree being pruned, new growth happens once the unproductive aspects of our character are cut out. Many times there are so many distractions but we can discover the benefit of attending to our faith. We can read, observe, and listen with a purpose. We can learn lessons that are greater than silver and gold.
This day with God, stay focused on God’s presence. He is not distant but near and may get our attention in many ways. It might be with a brilliant sunrise or it might be as He bathes us in warm sunshine.
This day with God, there may be those that oppose us just like they did Daniel; those that want to bring us down but like Daniel, we can be people of faith. We can be successful by joining the winning team and finding victory in Christ.
Problems are opportunities to find solutions. It is during these moments that we are more open to Jesus coming along with us; we are more focused, and have more passion. This is when we learn the most and are able to make a more meaningful contribution to the world in which we live.
As we each participate in the establishment of God’s kingdom, there are difficulties to be faced. For things to happen, we must dream big like Daniel and want to know more; want to know the Word of God and how to apply these lessons in life.
Daniel tried to understand his visions. Trying to understand things gives us humility because we don’t have all the answers. The best we can do is ask questions, seek answers, and be teachable.
Many like to complain and go around obstacles instead of removing them for others. Daniel saw the obstacles and shows initiative by seeking God’s help through prayer to remove them.
Daniel receives peace and strength because he had faith that God was for him. He focused on the positive influence of God and someone that looked like a man (Christ) touched him. When we go through hard times, quality is built into our character. We are battle tested for what life brings our way and are ready to do what is needed.
Like getting a hit for a teammate who makes it to home base (RBI) in baseball, there is a reward for those who honor God and promote His ways so that others are brought home to Christ. We cannot comprehend all of God’s ways but we can look for Him every day. We can go to Him in prayer and listen. We can sing to Him and praise Him for the gift of His Son.
Over the last few weeks, we’ve learned some great lessons from the book of Daniel. Now the plan is to learn lessons by continuing the study of the Psalms. Join me or check in often for thoughts and ideas as I share on a daily basis.
Please visit my devotional blog at: This Day with God; the site that gives inspiration for most of the poems posted on this blog.
Step Ahead 