Ready…!
Daniel the prophet lived in a place of prominence and great authority in the Babylonian kingdom of Nebuchadnezzar. But when he was about 65 years old, Nabonidus came into power in Babylon and Daniel was removed from his office.
For more than 20 years, Daniel is not on the scene in the very book that bears his name. But then on the day that Belshazzar called him into interpret the writing gouged into the wall by an angel of the Lord, things changed. ( Daniel 5:13)
That night Darius the Mede seized control of the kingdom and Daniel was again placed in a position of prominence. But for 20 years Daniel had not been in ministry that was seen nor did he hold a position of responsibility. But Daniel, being a godly man, did what he had always done before no matter where he was or what he was going through, he remained faithful in his ministry to God.
The church today is sometimes viewed by some as simply a place where one’s talents are displayed. But if that opportunity is not forthcoming some folk drift and seek another stage, a platform for their wares to be on show.
From Daniel’s example we can learn that our job is to be ready – to walk with the Lord, spend time in the presence of the Lord, learn about the Lord – so that when Belshazzar says, “What does this mean?” Like Daniel, we can say, “I will tell you, because for 20 years I have been in touch with God. For 20 years, I have been in the place of prayer. For 20 years, I have been close to the Lord.”
A true servant’s heart is revealed and will occur in our walk with God when you realize, He’s the Master and you’re not, He’s the King, and you’re the subject. He’s the Boss and you’re the servant. Yours and my job is not to give Him orders or demand of Him. But yours and my place is to be ready for Him and to rest in Him!
Prepare, be faithful, be patient, be in fellowship with Him and grow in the things of God so that you can be ready when God calls!