November 25

Today's Reading

Daniel. If your awareness of this prophet is limited to his night in the lion's den, you are in for a treasure of experiences. Daniel was used as God's prophet, primarily to the pagan people where he was held captive. He was the adviser to great kings. He saw great kingdoms rise and fall. And his understanding of the stars as well as God's stated plans traveled down hundreds of years to an order of astronomers -- called Magi -- who followed a star to Bethlehem.

Nebuchadnezzar was powerful, egotistical, maniacal and brilliant. He was one of the most powerful kings in all of history. A raise of the eyebrows or movement of a finger could order the slaughter or thousands with no repercussions to him. But remember this: God is in charge of kings! "The king's heart is like channels of water in the hands of God; he moves it whichever way He wishes." (Proverbs 21:1) Also, God always has His representatives near seats of power. I wonder who the Daniels are in this day.

1 Peter. "And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. 16 But do this in a gentle and respectful way." With the deepest respect for those who do it, I believe that the "in your face, turn or burn" style of evangelism isn't very effective today. At least not among the people where I minister.

Psalms. "71 My suffering was good for me,
for it taught me to pay attention to your decrees." Once again, we are treated to an Old Testament confirmation of some we read in the New Testament today. Didn't notice? Take a quick look at 1 Peter again.

Proverbs. It is far better to be doubtful and careful than confident and sinful.

What are your thoughts?