A Tribute to Character

Thursday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Daniel 5
NT: Hebrews 12
W&W: Psalm 127

Friday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Daniel 6
NT: Hebrews 13
W&W: Psalm 128

Today’s Reflection:

Ever notice how success sometimes breeds trouble? Daniel was in just such a position. He had been elevated to the third highest in the kingdom of Babylon, and because of his success many were jealous of him. Powerful and influential people sought to destroy his life.

But the Bible says that destroying Daniel was harder than his detractor’s bargained for. Daniel was “trustworthy, and neither corrupt nor negligent.” Frustrated, these men realized, "We will never find any basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with the law of his God." That's a tribute to his character! These jealous co-workers could find no basis for a charge against him except for his high moral and spiritual qualities! So they colluded to trap him in his devotion to his God, and they set him up before the king.

If you know the story, you know that Daniel ended up being thrown in the lion’s den, but the lion’s just weren’t hungry for what was on the menue that day: “Man of God." God protected him. Now, it doesn’t always work that way; sometimes we suffer for our faith – suffer greatly – even face martyrdom. Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness” (Matthew 5.10). And of course, Jesus himself was crucified for his testimony of God.

The Apostle Peter says if we suffer because we act foolishly – and bring it on ourselves – then there is no valor in that. “But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God” (1 Peter 2:20).

Success often breeds trouble. Sometimes God delivers us from the trouble, sometimes through it. At all times, we should be determined to keep our way just and righteous before him. And, even should you suffer greatly because of your testimony for Jesus – as I stated earlier in the week – “Do not throw away your confidence! It will be richly rewarded!”

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Joel 2. 28-29, 31a: And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days… And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved;