Daniel 6:24-26, 28 NLT
Then the king gave orders to arrest the men who had maliciously accused Daniel. He had them thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. The lions tore them apart before they even hit the floor.
Then King Darius sent this message throughout the world:
“I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, and he will endure forever. His kingdom will never be destroyed, and his rule will never end.”
So Daniel prospered during the reign of Darius and the reign of Cyrus the Persian.
Chapter 6 ends, and with that, the historical portion of Daniel concludes. Three idol-worshiping kings (Nebuchadnezzar, Darius, and Cyrus) all placed their faith in God because of Daniel. Chapter 6 starts with a regime change and ends with a nation-changing law that God must be feared and worshiped. What a life of influence!
When my father died, I became responsible for my mother to help her order her affairs and update her will. A will is a legal document that recognizes all the assets you have accumulated in your life and how you want those passed on to the ones you leave behind.
In like manner, we all have spiritual assets given to us by God. We must consider how we want those passed on to others. This is called a legacy. Have you given any thought to the transfer of the spiritual wealth you have received from God?
Daniel had no wife and kids through which to leave a legacy. But his faithfulness to God left a mark on everyone who knew him and the powerful leaders he served. He was in a dark culture similar to modern-day America, but he brought light into that culture and changed it. How about you?
Don’t underestimate what God has given to you. You have a testimony. The Holy Spirit dwells in you. You are a steward of tremendous spiritual wealth. Consider the people who need to be in your “spiritual will.”
Prayer
Father, place someone on my heart today who needs what I have. I want to give away what you have given to me. Freely, I have received. Freely I will give. Anoint me to leave a mark on the people in my life. Help me to represent You well, in Jesus’ name!