Understanding Strength and Purpose Through Faith
The phrase “the people who know their God” is a powerful concept found in the Bible, particularly in Daniel 11:32, which states, “The people who know their God shall be strong, and carry out great exploits.” But what does this mean, and how can it apply to our everyday lives? Let’s break it down in simple terms.
What Does It Mean to Know God?
Knowing God isn’t just about memorizing facts or stories about Him. It’s deeper than that—it’s about building a meaningful relationship with Him. Think of it like getting to know a close friend. While you might start with basic knowledge, such as where they’re from or what they enjoy, a true friendship involves understanding their character, their values, and their heart. Similarly, knowing God means understanding who He is, His love for humanity, and His plans for the world.
This type of knowledge isn’t surface-level; it’s about connecting with God on a personal level. It’s about recognizing His goodness, His wisdom, and His power in your life. It’s a relationship that grows over time as you trust Him, learn from Him, and align your life with His teachings.
Faith and Trust: The Foundation of Knowing God
One of the most important aspects of knowing God is having faith in Him. Faith means believing in God’s promises and trusting Him to guide you, even when life gets tough. Just like leaning on a friend during difficult times, knowing God offers the comfort of knowing that you’re not alone.
This trust helps you stand firm, even when faced with challenges or uncertainty. It doesn’t mean life will always be easy, but it gives you the strength to keep going, knowing that God has your back. Those who know God find confidence in His plan and His timing, even when things don’t make sense.
Strength and Action: Being Empowered by God
Knowing God isn’t just a passive experience—it’s transformative. In Daniel 11:32, the Bible emphasizes that this relationship gives people strength and motivates them to take action.
When you truly know God, you’re empowered to live with courage and purpose. You’re able to resist fear, temptation, and the distractions of life because you’re grounded in your faith. This strength isn’t about physical power; it’s about having the inner resolve to stand firm in your beliefs and to live out God’s mission for you.
And it doesn’t stop there. Knowing God inspires action. It encourages people to make a positive impact in the world—whether that’s helping others, standing up for what’s right, or sharing God’s love with those around them. These “great exploits” are the result of a heart that’s aligned with God’s will and energized to make a difference.
Contrasting Deception
Daniel 11:32 also mentions a contrast: those who don’t know God are easily led astray by flattery and deceit. This highlights the importance of having a solid relationship with God as a foundation for truth. Without this connection, people may be swayed by empty promises or misled by things that seem appealing but don’t align with God’s principles.
Knowing God provides clarity, helping people distinguish between what is true and what is false. It acts as a guide, steering them away from harmful influences and toward living a life of integrity and faith.
Examples from Scripture
The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who exemplify what it means to know God. Take Daniel and his friends, for example. Despite being exiled in Babylon—a foreign land with different beliefs—they stayed true to their faith in God. They refused to bow to idols, even when their lives were at risk, and God rewarded their courage and obedience.
These stories show us that knowing God leads to strength and guidance, even in the most challenging circumstances. It’s a reminder that this relationship is not only meaningful but also life-changing.
A Life of Purpose and Courage
Ultimately, “the people who know their God” are those who cultivate a personal relationship with Him. This is a journey that involves faith, understanding, and obedience. It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding.
Knowing God transforms individuals, giving them the strength to face life’s challenges and the courage to live out their purpose. It’s about being anchored in faith and empowered to carry out great deeds—not for personal gain, but to honor God and contribute to His work in the world.
How Can You Know God?
If this concept resonates with you, you might be wondering how to build a closer relationship with God. Here are some simple steps to consider:
· Spend time in prayer: Prayer is like having a conversation with God. Share your thoughts, worries, and gratitude with Him.
· Study the Bible: The Bible is filled with insights into God’s character and His teachings. Regular study can deepen your understanding.
· Live out His teachings: Apply God’s principles in your daily life—love others, act with integrity, and stand up for what’s right.
· Seek community: Connecting with others who share your faith can encourage and inspire your journey.
In Summary
The phrase “the people who know their God” refers to individuals who have a deep and transformative relationship with God. This knowledge goes beyond facts; it’s about faith, trust, and understanding God’s character. It empowers people to live with strength, resist deception, and take purposeful action in life.
Daniel 11:32 serves as a powerful reminder of the impact this relationship can have: giving people the courage to face challenges and inspiring them to make a difference. Whether through prayer, study, or action, knowing God is a journey that leads to strength, purpose, and lasting fulfillment.
May we all find the strength we need in times of challenge and uncertainty, and may our hearts be filled with a deep and lasting peace. Let kindness guide our actions, and let hope be the foundation of our days. Together, we can walk forward with courage and serenity, knowing that blessings of strength and peace are always within reach.
Minister A. Francine Green
afrancinegreen.com 