This morning I was reading the last few chapters of Daniel, specifically in Chapter 12 which my bible titles "The End Times".

Chapter 12 - At that time, Michael, the great prince who protects your people will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the begining of nations until then. But at that time your people - everyone whose name is found written in the book - will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. (Daniel 12:1-2)

The future has been told to us through God's word! We know the end of things. Some will awake to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Some to spending eternity with Jesus in Heaven and some doomed to hell for ever.

For me, verse three is for us now.

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)

So the question is, does your life "shine" like the brightness of the heavens? Are people able to look at you and wonder what is different about you? Does your reaction to failure, adversity, or attack demonstrate that you are wise or does your "brightness" get covered for a time.

For my life, I don't worry about the end. God's word promises me a place with Jesus in paradise forever. For now, I need to worry about being wise and "leading many to righteousness".

Only because of His power and Spirit within me...

Philip J.