www.bible.com/72/dan.12.3.hcsb
Great verse huh? It gets even better when you read it in context. In isolation, it sounds like a great commendation for those who are followers of Jesus. But it’s much more than that. You see this verse follows in Daniel 12 a short word about the resurrection at the end of time. There are those who will rise and be in heaven and those whose resurrection means eternal sorrow. It’s actually one of the first OT mentions of the eternal life of the damned, that they will suffer eternally, just as the righteous will dwell in heaven eternally.
But this verse changes subtly when placed in this context. Instead of a present commendation, it becomes a future reward. Those who are wise (in this life) will shine like the expanse of heaven (in the next) and those who lead others to righteousness (in this life) will shine like the stars forever and ever (in the next).
It emphasizes the importance (in this pre-Christian text) that God is watching what you do, and two things He values eternally is wisdom (which begins with Him) and leading others to (His) righteousness. Yes it is all about God, but He made us and does get all the credit. He values our recognition of that and our efforts to lead others to Him. With the advent of Jesus Christ, we have even more reason to do so.
May your Monday keep this one fact in mind. Today is the Lord’s day too. Everyday belongs to Him.
Meritt Musings 