Day 5 Daniel Fast 12 Day Devotional
DAY 5: An Extraordinary Reputation
READING: Daniel 5
KEY VERSE
But I personally have heard about you, that you are able to give interpretations and solve difficult problems.
Daniel 5:16
Daniel had a relationship with several kings throughout his life. He had to prove himself to a new leader with each transition. We don’t know where Daniel was when Belshazzar became ruler, but by the time the feast came, it seems he was unknown or forgotten.
His reputation was known, however. Qualities noted about Daniel are his:
extraordinary spirit
knowledge
insight
interpretation of dreams
explanation of enigmas
solving difficult problems
illumination
extraordinary wisdom
“Extraordinary” is used multiple times to describe Daniel throughout the book. What made Daniel so extra and beyond the ordinary? It was his relationship with God. God put the “extra” and supernatural power into Daniel’s life and character! Daniel did not rely on his personal skill to solve problems. His relationship with God was his source of wisdom and daily fed and formed his spirit.
Daniel’s consistent relationship with God is evident in chapter 5. Although he was not regularly consulted, the moment the king summoned Daniel, he delivered powerful, timely insight. Daniel wasn’t waiting on a crisis to call on God, he was engaged with Him every day, regardless of whether anyone noticed or applauded.
You can live transparently as a person of integrity because you have nothing to prove and nothing to hide. Relying on human strength and skill to build your reputation is exhausting. When you know God like Daniel did, the burden is light. Depending on God’s extraordinary, supernatural power allows you to soar with confidence under His protection.
ADDITIONAL READING
Isaiah 40:27-31
Proverbs 22:1
Matthew 11:29-30
QUESTIONS
What qualities do people use to describe you?
Do you strive to create a good reputation, or feel like you have to hide certain things from others to control your reputation?
Have you experienced a challenging time where you felt forgotten or unnoticed? What was your relationship with God like during this time?
