November 7 -- "An Excellent Spirit"

 Today's Reading: Daniel 5

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In Daniel 5:12, the phrase "excellent spirit" refers to an outstanding or exceptional inner quality that distinguished Daniel from others. This "excellence of spirit" encompasses wisdom, insight, integrity, and faithfulness to God. It describes Daniel's character as being full of God-given wisdom and a deep connection with the Spirit of God, enabling him to interpret dreams, explain mysteries, and solve complex problems.

Biblically, "excellence of spirit" is not about human ability or effort, but is entirely brought about by God's empowerment in a person's life. Daniel’s excellence flowed from his unwavering faithfulness and reliance on God, making him a vessel through whom God’s wisdom and power were made manifest.

Acquiring an "excellent spirit" like Daniel’s is not something we can manufacture through our own strength or effort—it comes from a deep, abiding relationship with God. Here's how we can cultivate this excellence:

The first step is a heart fully surrendered to God. Daniel's life was marked by complete trust in God’s sovereignty. To acquire an excellent spirit, we must daily seek the Holy Spirit’s power enabling us to yield our lives to God, trusting His plans and purposes above our own. This surrender invites the Holy Spirit to work in and through us, molding us to reflect Christ.

Galatians 5:16 reminds us to "walk by the Spirit." This means living each day in step with God’s guidance. By seeking His will in prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and allowing His Spirit to lead, we position ourselves to receive the wisdom, insight, and strength that only He can give. Our obedience to God's Word, even in the small things, cultivates a spirit of excellence as we grow in our understanding of God’s ways.

James 1:5 promises that if we ask for God’s wisdom, He will give it generously. An excellent spirit comes from this God-given wisdom. Regularly asking for His insight and guidance equips us to handle life’s challenges with discernment, like Daniel did.

We must recognize that we cannot achieve excellence by ourselves. This keeps us dependent on God. Daniel’s humility before God allowed him to be used mightily. When we humble ourselves and rely on the Spirit, God works through us in ways we never imagined.