Shining Like Stars

In a series of visions, Daniel was told of a time filled with distress. But he also was told that “everyone who is found written in the book” will be rescued.

While these words pointed to the future, Daniel also was given insights with practical implications for our daily lives. In fact, we are to “shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven.” Here, in this life, we are to point others toward God.

The message is that our lives are to be characterized by a shining brightness. For us to demonstrate the reality of the Gospel through our lives.

As Jesus taught, His followers are to be “the light of the world.” As lights, we are to shine for Him. This means realizing that He puts us in situations so that others might see His light through our lives.

In these situations, we are to let the light of the Gospel shine through us. Others should see that the Gospel is real through our example. We are to shine in such a way that others will glorify our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:14-16).

In 1899, these images inspired Judson Van DeVenter to write a hymn, “We Shall Shine as the Stars.” In this present world, we may “tarry awhile here as strangers,” but after Jesus comes again, He “will crown us in glory.”

We may not be famous or “rich in earth’s treasures.” But in eternity we will “be rewarded.” Then we will “shine as the stars of the morning.” Thanks to Jesus, eternally we will “shine as the sun.”

Today, make sure that your light is shining brightly through the words that you speak and the things you do. Allow God’s light to shine through you.