Walking Through Ephesians
“Daniel 12”
Categories: Journey with DanielDaniel 12
What would you give for a glimpse of the future? That’s one of the most incredible features to the book of Daniel. This faithful follower of God is shown through amazing imagery the will and purpose of God which is to take place in the future. When we read through Daniel 7-12, the word that come to mind are what Daniel says in Daniel 12:8, “As for me, I heard but could not understand; so I said, ‘My lord, what will be the outcome of these events?’” I’ve read it, but it’s tough to understand what’s going on. What we have to help us understand Daniel’s vision is a greater perspective – we look at the events of the Old Testament this side of the cross.
The last chapter in the book of Daniel points us to several important events that were to take place in the future. The conflict described in this chapter seems to be pointing to the destruction of Jerusalem. Much of what is said here is echoed by the Lord in Matthew 24 and Mark 13. Thus the “end of time” seems to not be describing the actual end of all things, but rather is describing the end of Jerusalem, and what the Old Covenant was in representative form. There will be strong persecution. And time periods are described, giving an indication that it will not last forever.
The final words are words of comfort and peace, “But as for you, go your way to the end; then you will enter into rest and rise again for your allotted portion at the end of the age.” We call that hope. Conflict will come. Wars will rage. But there’s hope ahead. That’s seen in the language of resurrection through this chapter – not of the bodies when Jesus returns – but of the souls and hearts of those who submit their life to the Lord (Ezekiel 37:12-13).
This ends our month with Daniel. This book is such an inspiring section of Scripture. Wouldn’t it be amazing to have the faith of a Daniel, to face threatening situations with an unyielding trust and devotion to our God? We need that kind of faith today. Our culture continues to drift further and further from God, and the more it does so, the more God’s people will find themselves in conflicting situations. Daniel shows us that it is possible to be faithful to God throughout one’s lifetime. As a youth, and as an old man, Daniel remained loyal to the Lord. And we can too. We can have a determined spirit to stand upon our convictions. We can lead a disciplined life, molded by daily time in prayer to God. We can be so devoted to our King, that whatever tests or trials may come our way, there is no question where our loyalties lie. We stand with the Ancient of Days. Our devotion is to the King of kings. Thank you Daniel, for reminding us it can be done.
Our great and glorious King we give you thanks today for Your words. How inspiring and enlightening they are. We thank You for recording the life and example of Your servant Daniel. We see how You used him in amazing ways through difficult times. We are so thankful for his faith, his devotion, and his loyalty to You. It is our desire to live that kind of life – so true to You, so trusting and depending on You. We ask You help his example to spark a fire of commitment and zeal in our hearts. As the world drifts further from You, Father draw us closer and closer to You. Use us as lights in this dark place to point others to Your glory. You are the God of Daniel, the God who quenches the fire, who stops the mouths of lions – You are the Ancient of Days – and we like Daniel love You, serve You, and long to be with You forever.
