Like the Stars

And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever. (Daniel 12:3)

Dan. 12:1-9; Pro. 11:30; Mt. 24:36-37; Lk. 17:22-30; I Thess. 5:4-5, 11

What Is God Saying?

Daniel is referring to what will happen in the end times. There can be no doubt that references such as "A time of trouble as never has been" (12:1) and "Many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall increase" (12:4) could apply to our time. Jesus said the days before his return would be "as it was in the days of Noah" and also "as it was in the days of Lot". Jesus said, "But of that day, no one knows" (Luke 17:22-30). We are to wait for his return to "watch and be ready".

How Does This Apply To Us?

Being ready for our Lord's return means shining as stars in the night. That is the substance and purpose of stars-steady and consistent lights, guides to the travelers through "this present darkness," tiny lights that are never engulfed by darkness. "But you, beloved, are not in darkness, for that day to surprise you like a thief” (I Thess. 5:4). "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing" (I Tim. 5:4).

Pray With Me

O Lord of all creation, I thank you that you made the stars and that you made use of the stars. There is no glory in your vast and perfect creation that surpasses the brightness of the firmament. I take time to look up, and I am wrapped in nocturnal quiet. I am lifted to infinite beyondness-beyond all reach and beyond all understanding, but not beyond your control. In these moments, I am renewed in faith.

"Oh, may no earth-born cloud arise to hide thee from thy servants' eyes" or from the eyes of those who look through me to you.

Let me shine for Jesus forever, for His sake. Amen.

Moving On In The Life of Prayer

In prayer, let God deal with our weakness and failure, and let His Spirit set our hearts aglow with holiness, that others may find the way of righteousness.