Scripture:
“I continued watching in the night visions, and suddenly one like a son of man was coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was escorted before him. He was given dominion and glory and a kingdom, so that those of every people, nation, and language should serve him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will not be destroyed.” (Daniel 7:13-14)
Reading:
Daniel Chapter 7 begins like a nightmare. Terrorizing beasts rising from the sea is not exactly the stuff that inspires devotionals. But Daniel’s terrifying vision is the perfect pitch-black backdrop to display Christ’s glorious appearance.
Today God’s enemy comes to “wear out the saints of the Most High.” (Daniel 7:25) Although we cannot fathom this persecution before Christ’s return, you have met darkness designed to wear you out.
The spirit behind the antichrist in Daniel 7 schemes to oppose your faith and demand attention (see 2 Thessalonians 2:4). Yet, no matter how the enemy attempts to wear you down, he cannot wear down the Holy Spirit within you.
“God made you alive with Christ. He forgave us all our sins, having canceled the charge of our legal indebtedness, which stood against us and condemned us; he has taken it away, nailing it to the cross. And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.” (Colossians 2:13-15)
All demonic powers were defeated by the cross of Christ. And the Holy Spirit, who indwells your heart through faith, imparts to you God’s strength to face down lingering spiritual opposition.
“… the glory-strength God gives. It is strength that endures the unendurable and spills over into joy, thanking the Father who makes us strong enough to take part in everything bright and beautiful that he has for us.” (Col. 1:9-12 MSG)
As in Daniel’s vision, spiritual darkness will highlight Christ’s presence in your life as you rely on Him. Praise God the final consummation of evil will one day end (Dan. 7:26-27)! There is an incredibly happy ending on the way.
Reflection:
1. In what ways does darkness attempt to wear out your faith?
2. Where do you turn for relief?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Daniel’s brilliant vision of Lord Jesus. Help me to live for Your glory that everyone around me might come to know Christ. I ask for grace to rely on Your victorious strength to overcome darkness. I love You, God. It is in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.