JEHOVAH PROMISES DANIEL A WONDERFUL REWARD: CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

A RUNNER stretches toward the finish line. He is nearing exhausted, but with his goal in sight, he pours every ounce of energy into those last few paces. Straining with every muscle, he crosses the line at last!  His face registers relief and triumph. Enduring to the end has paid off.

At the conclusion of Daniel chapter 12, we find the beloved prophet nearing the finish line of his own "race"-his life of service to Jehovah. After citing various examples of faith among Jehovah's pre-Christian servants, the apostle Paul wrote:  "So, then, because we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, and let us also put off every weight and the sin that easily entangles us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, as we look intently at the Chief Agent and Perfector of our faith, Jesus.  For the joy that was set before him he endured a torture stake, despising shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God." -Hebrews 12:1, 2.

Among that 'great cloud of witnesses' was Daniel.  He certainly was one who had to "run with endurance," and he was motivated to do so by deep love for God.   Jehovah had revealed much to Daniel about the future of world governments, but now He sent him this personal encouragement:  "As for yourself, go toward the end; and you will rest, but you will stand up for your lot at the end of the days."  (Daniel 12:13)  Jehovah's angel was telling Daniel three distinct things: (1) than Daniel should "go toward the end," (2)  that he would "rest,"  and (3) that he would "stand up" again at a future time.  How can these words encourage Christians today to endure to the finish line in the race for life?

Next time: "GO TOWARD THE END"

From the book: PAY ATTENTION TO DANIEL'S PROPHECY! 1999