Daniel 11:33–35 (NIV) “Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or be burned or captured or plundered. When they fall, they will receive a little help, and many who are not sincere will join them. Some of the wise will stumble, so that they may be refined, purified and made spotless until the time of the end, for it will still come at the appointed time.”
Persecution has marked the people of God since the beginning. Our Lord Jesus—Savior, Messiah, the God-Man—was murdered by men who rejected His claim to deity and His authority over their lives. The early Church followed Him on that path of suffering. And today, around the world, faithful believers still face prison, beatings, and execution—just look at the relentless attacks on Christians in Nigeria, the Middle East, and across communist nations.
What does this mean for Christian men who want to live with purpose, provide faithfully, and lead their homes with conviction?
Daniel tells us:
“Those who are wise will instruct many…”
Men of wisdom don’t retreat. They teach. They lead. They call others to remain loyal to Jesus and obedient to His commands no matter the cultural cost.
But Daniel also warns us:
Some will fall. Some will falter. Some will join for the wrong reasons. Some will stumble so that God may refine, purify, and strengthen them.
In other words—persecution exposes what we are made of.
Weak faith collapses.
Cultural Christianity crumbles.
But true disciples endure because they see the world through eternal eyes.
American Christians must rediscover this wise courage. Too many men fear disapproval while their brothers overseas face death. Too many hide their faith while God calls them to stand. Our enemies are not “coming”—they’re already here. The only question is whether we will be faithful when the pressure rises.
The Church doesn’t need more comfort-seeking men. It needs wise men—men who will instruct, lead, and live boldly for Jesus even when it costs them career, reputation, convenience, or relationships.
The wise identify publicly with Christ—both in word and in deed.
The fool lives and speaks as though there is no God.
Run Today’s Play Stand up for Jesus today—out loud.
Speak His name. Refuse compromise. Lead your family in truth. Correct falsehood. Encourage another believer. Share the gospel with someone who needs it.
Don’t wait for persecution to force your hand.
Choose faithfulness now so you’re ready when it comes.
