12 January

“And in all matters of wisdom and understanding about which the king examined them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers who were in all his realm”. (Daniel 1:20)

When Jude walked out of the A’ level exam hall before the time was up, his teacher was worried about one of his best Maths students. “What happened?” he asked. “I’ve finished; it was good,” he chuckled. He made the expected A. Jude had joined the Further Maths class late by one term in his O’ Level class, so it was extraordinary to make top grades in A’ Level. He had studied diligently. Armed with godly purpose and gifts, like Daniel he put his trust in God, who gave him guidance, wisdom and understanding. Daniel and his 3 friends, though captives, had total allegiance to God. They excelled in the Babylonian School of culture, language and literature. The King, as Chief examiner, scored them ten times better than the best of his own. Life is an exam; what are we doing with it?

ACTION: Excellence in all things involves diligence, trust and dedication to God.

PRAYER: Lord, please grant us a spirit of excellence for such a time as this!