As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Daniel 1:17
The Book of Daniel opens with the people of God taken into captivity because they refused to turn from their idolatry. Daniel and his three friends were among the captors who were taken, when the Babylonians came and invaded Judah. It is in this time of captivity and through these four young men, that God reveals the greatness of His power, His might and majesty. They were chosen from among the captives to serve in the king’s court. But kept themselves from being defiled when they refused the king’s daily provision. And what God gave to them in terms of knowledge and wisdom, that is, ‘knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom’ far exceeded the request or even the expectations of the king, who instructed that they just be taught the language and literature of the Chaldeans. Daniel 1:4
Well, it is that time of the year again, when all of our students are preparing themselves for their final examination and then there are those who have already begun. It is common knowledge the stress that this event has come to impose on both students and parents alike. Many students find themselves overwhelmed by the sheer weight of expectations imposed on them. But don’t despair, child of God, because your Father has not left you without provision here. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. The counsel that He gave to Joshua, way back under the Old Covenant, is the same for us today. ‘This book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, for then you will make your way prosperous and then you will have good success’. While we are no longer under law but under grace, it is imperative that the wisdom that is contained in this promise be carried over, for us to witness the fulfilment of this promise in our lives.
This is not hard or time consuming, if anything, you will be pleasantly surprised to find the grace of God that is sufficient to carry you throughout this time. By all means be diligent with your studies but don’t neglect the life source God has given, for you to enjoy good success. Jesus, Himself showed us the pattern, ‘it is written’, and David understood this key to success, when he declares throughout his writings, ‘I will say of the Lord’. Faith is predicated on you not just believing God’s Word but also declaring that Word. Even when your faith does not seem to be perfect at times –you believe God’s Word but there is still a little doubt, when you find yourself in trouble, declare that Word anyhow.
It is the picture of the prodigal son. The father did not wait for his son to come all the way to him, but when he saw him, he ran out to meet him. So when you become fearful say, God has not given me a spirit of fear but of power of love and of a sound mind or by the grace of God I have a sound mind. When you become doubtful say, my God shall supply all my needs according to His riches in glory. Or just mutter under your breath, my Father loves me –perfect love casts out all fear. This is your declaration of faith. God’s word works when you believe it. This is your Father’s provision for you. You are not without help or hope. God is with you, He is for you.
John says to put no confidence in the flesh but that we have confidence toward God and whatever we ask we receive from Him. Delight yourself in the Lord, believe His Word for you and say it, and He will give you the desires of your heart. Abide in His perfect love for you and may you enjoy complete peace, the peace that is God’s alone throughout your examination.
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