Shine!

Wednesday, December  1, 1999

VERSE:
   Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
    -- Daniel 12:3, New International Version
       <http://bible.gospelcom.net/bible?Daniel+12:3>

THOUGHT:
   God promised a sifting between the righteous and unrighteous. Jesus repeated the same assurance in his parables.  For God's people, however, these are not fearful warnings.  Instead, these are words of promise.  Those who have wisely honored and lived for God will shine brilliantly for all to see.  Those who have led others to live righteously will twinkle like stars in their Father's eyes!

PRAYER:
   Loving God, thank you for saving me by your grace and kindness. At the same time, Father, I get frustrated when I see the wicked prosper while your loyal servants are maligned and ridiculed for their character.  I'm thankful that you will judge us based on your incredible grace!  At the same time, I'm also thankful you will bring justice for those who love you and who are enduring hardship, danger, and ridicule because of their faith.  Please be with them, wherever they may be, and give them strength to persevere until that day comes.  In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.