June 20, 2025

REMEMBER: RIGHTEOUSNESS, PEACE, AND JOY!

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“At that time Michael, the archangel who stands guard over your nation, will arise. Then there will be a time of anguish greater than any since nations first came into existence. But at that time every one of your people whose name is written in the book will be rescued. Many of those whose bodies lie dead and buried will rise up, some to everlasting life and some to shame and everlasting disgrace. Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.”

Daniel 12:1-3 NLT

“Many will be purified, cleansed, and refined by these trials. But the wicked will continue in their wickedness, and none of them will understand. Only those who are wise will know what it means.”

Daniel 12:10 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

Daniel’s vision in chapter 12 paints a sobering picture: a time of great anguish unlike anything the world has seen. It’s a picture of global turmoil, shaking kingdoms and testing hearts. But even during this chaos, God offers hope. He assures us that “everyone whose name is written in the book will be rescued.”

God always has a plan of protection and deliverance for His people. And more than that—He promises glory for those who walk in wisdom and righteousness. Daniel writes:

“Those who are wise will shine as bright as the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness will shine like the stars forever.” (Daniel 12:3)

What an encouragement! In a dark world, God calls His people to shine—to stand out in wisdom and lead others toward truth.

Daniel also tells us that trials have a purpose. These times of difficulty are not wasted—they are used by God to purify, cleanse, and refine us. That’s why James encourages us to rejoice in trials—not because we enjoy suffering, but because we know God is using it to shape us.

“Many will be purified, cleansed, and refined by these trials…” (Daniel 12:10)

When trouble comes, we face a choice:

We can get better or get bitter.

We can give in to fear, or we can choose faith.

God gave Daniel these visions not to scare us—but to prepare us. He wanted us to understand that yes, life may get difficult. But He is always working. He always rescues. And He has already written the end of the story.

Our hope isn’t in politics, programs, or powerful people.

Our hope is in the “Ancient of Days”—Jesus Christ—who will return to set all things right.

His kingdom is one of righteousness, peace, and joy:

• Righteousness: right relationship with God and others

• Peace: calm and security in every part of life

• Joy: not just a fleeting feeling, but a deep inner confidence that God is good, no matter what.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, I invite You to reign in my life today. Forgive me for letting fear or anxiety dominate my thoughts. Help me to see trials as opportunities to grow. Let Your righteousness, peace, and joy define my days. May I shine like the stars, pointing others toward You. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”