Daniel 12:3 says “But the wise will shine like the brightness of the heavenly expanse. And those bringing many to righteousness will be like the stars forever and ever.”
This verse put the spotlight on how we can shine for Jesus, even when we don’t feel like it, which in this current day is no stretch of the imagination. This verse, tucked away in the book of Daniel has key elements that provoke deeper dialog. Come with me on this little exploratory journey for a minute. I’ve highlighted the phrases that will be our primary focus.
Wise will shine; there is an assurance to all believers that are walking through life, with a heart of gratitude, and a desire to invest in scripture, and seek the wisdom of Christ by simply asking Him in accordance with James 1:5 “But if anyone is deficient in wisdom, he should ask God, who gives to all generously and without reprimand, and it will be given to him.” – will grow in wisdom and in so doing, as we fill our hearts with the Holy Spirit and His teaching, to those around us, this brightness, likened to the heavenly expanses, will be evident. The promise is that the wise will shine, it’s not a maybe, it is definite. Why would we need wisdom? For ourselves? I don’t believe so. It is not for our own gain, rather it is so that we might position ourselves in places where godly wisdom will provide a pathway toward someone finding truth, hearing counsel, and being drawn deeper into a relationship with the Lord.
And those bringing many to righteousness; This is a key revelation right here. We are often the only representation of Jesus Christ that someone will ever see. If we are walking in such a way that people notice a difference, something out of the ordinary, so much so that when an event occurs or a challenge comes our way, we respond peaceably, graciously without losing control, and express how the Lord is in control, that He is leading and guiding our footsteps, it would cause introspection to those close to us, that could potentially open a door to share the gospel. As we share the gospel, we take the attention off ourselves, and shine a light on the redemptive power and love of Jesus Christ. If in doing so, only one person comes back and asks “how are you dealing with this issue…” we now have an opportunity to share why we believe what we believe, and how the Lord helps us through the storms of life, we don’t have to do it alone. This can set the stage for us to lead someone to Christ, to mentor them, to help them navigate their circumstance, and ultimately, through this call to action, lead a searching soul to salvation. The reward for the saints, highlights the eternal value of leading others to truth and moral integrity, promising a lasting and radiant honor to those who guide and lead others toward God.
Matthew 6:19-21 “Do not accumulate for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and devouring insects destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But accumulate for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and devouring insects do not destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
These earthly treasures are in essence worthless wealth and temporary with no eternal value. The heavenly treasures are eternal, spiritual and encompass serving others, human capital, and being generous in our thoughts and actions, and honoring God. What better way to store up treasure in heaven, by making disciples, snatching them out of eternal life separated from the Lord, and ensuring that by a small deed, we invest in His wisdom, thus shining for Him, and in so doing, ultimately sharing the gospel, enabling a name to be written in the Book of Life.
Is there someone in your network or circle of influence that you can shine for today, if so, let us know how we can pray with you through this amazing opportunity to shine brightly for Jesus, and to win souls for Christ.
Vic is the creator and voice behind The Jubber Journal , where he shares personal reflections on faith, life, and his “Step Into Life” journey. Born in Zimbabwe and having lived across Africa and Europe before settling in the United States, Vic draws from a rich, global perspective and over three decades of professional experience in the printing and operations industry.
Through his writing, he explores themes of spiritual growth and resilience, chronicling his transition from a “man of the world” to a life centered on faith. When he isn’t writing or managing operations, Vic shares his story to encourage others to find purpose and renewal in Jesus Christ.