As you pass your tests in life, be careful not to fall into the temptation of giving yourself the credit for your success. God is the one who has prepared our path and provided us with a book full of wisdom. God alone has motivated us through the Holy Spirit to seek Him and to obey Him. God alone has provided godly, encouraging friends. God alone has enabled us to solve our problems through the discernment, experiences, mentors, and Scriptural insights that He has given to us.
In Daniel 2, the king threatened to execute every wise man, including Daniel and his friends, because no one could interpret his troubling dream. As Daniel and his friends prayed through the night, God intervened on their behalf. "During the night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven and said: 'Praise be to the name of God for ever and ever; wisdom and power are his'" (Daniel 2:19-20).
How often do we fall into the trap of thinking our success comes from our own efforts?
The very first thing Daniel did when God gave him this vision was to praise Him. Daniel did not claim to have extraordinary knowledge or discernment. He knew that whatever insight he gained into King Nebuchadnezzar's dream came solely from God.
How often do we fall into the trap of thinking our success comes from our own efforts? Yet without God's gifts of health, intelligence, opportunities, and resources, we would never be able to accomplish anything.
As you step out in faith and obey God, praise Him for His strength and guidance in leading you in the right path. As you succeed in helping others, give God the glory for giving you the right words to say. As you overcome your fears with faith, thank God that His love is faithful and enduring.
Prayer: Father, forgive me for the times I fall into the trap of thinking I have accomplished something on my own. I realize that without You, I am nothing. Help me to praise You for the many ways You help me each and every day. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"For the Lord your God is the one who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies to give you victory" (Deuteronomy 20:4).
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