Daniel 12:3—“And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.”

Daniel’s final vision looks beyond a time of great trouble to the resurrection. “Many of them that sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake”, some to everlasting life and others to shame (Daniel 12:2). Then comes the promise: “They that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever” (v. 3).

The wise heed God’s Word and remain faithful amid trial. Their present suffering may leave them despised or forgotten, but God promises them a glorious future. The shining described here is His gift, not a glory they produce for themselves.

Daniel also speaks of those who “turn many to righteousness”. They teach God’s truth and call others to walk in His ways. Their labour matters eternally, even when its fruit is hard to see. Yet no teacher or witness can make another person righteous by his own power. God is the One who saves, and His servants must faithfully declare His Word.

This promise encourages believers to look beyond present appearances. We may be tempted to measure a life by public honour, influence or immediate results. Daniel directs our eyes to the resurrection and to God’s final judgment. Those who seem insignificant now will not be overlooked by Him.

Let us therefore seek the wisdom to receive and obey God’s truth. Let us also speak that truth to others with patience and love, praying that they may turn to the Lord. The God who sees faithful service in difficult days will make His people shine in the day He has appointed.