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The Source of Wisdom, August 29
Daniel 1:17-21
Only the Lord give thee wisdom and understanding, and give thee charge
concerning Israel, that thou mayest keep the law of the Lord thy God.
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Chronicles 22:12
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In acquiring the wisdom of the Babylonians, Daniel and his companions
were far more successful than their fellow students; but their learning did not
come by chance.... They placed themselves in connection with the Source of all
wisdom, making the knowledge of God the foundation of their education. In faith
they prayed for wisdom, and they lived their prayers. They placed themselves
where God could bless them. They avoided that which would weaken their
powers, and improved every opportunity to become intelligent in all lines of
learning. They followed the rules of life that could not fail to give them strength
of intellect. They sought to acquire knowledge for one purpose—that they might
honor God.... In order to stand as representatives of true religion amid the false
religions of heathenism they must have clearness of intellect and must perfect
a Christian character. And God Himself was their teacher. Constantly praying,
conscientiously studying, keeping in touch with the Unseen, they walked with
God as did Enoch.
True success in any line of work is not the result of chance or accident or
destiny. It is the outworking of God’s providences, the reward of faith and
discretion, of virtue and perseverance. Fine mental qualities and a high moral
tone are not the result of accident. God gives opportunities; success depends
upon the use made of them....
His grace is given to work in us to will and to do, but never as a substitute
for our effort. As the Lord cooperated with Daniel and his fellows, so He will
cooperate with all who strive to do His will. And by the impartation of His
Spirit He will strengthen every true purpose, every noble resolution. Those who
walk in the path of obedience will encounter many hindrances. Strong, subtle
influences may bind them to the world; but the Lord is able to render futile every
agency that works for the defeat of His chosen ones; in His strength they may
overcome every temptation, conquer every difficulty
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Prophets and Kings, 486, 487
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