Every generation faces times of spiritual shaking—moments when the world seems unstable, morality is confused, and faith is tested. Daniel lived in one of those seasons. Empires rose and fell. Kings raged. God’s people were pressured, threatened, and pushed to compromise. And in the middle of that chaos, Daniel gives us one of the most powerful promises in all of Scripture:
“The people who know their God shall be strong,
and carry out great exploits.” — Daniel 11:32
This is not just encouragement…
It’s identity.
It’s destiny.
It’s a blueprint for living boldly in challenging times.
Let’s break this promise into the three parts Daniel gives us.
1. “The people who know their God…” — The Foundation of Everything
Daniel does not say, “the people who know about God.”
He says, “the people who know their God.”
This is personal. Intimate. Relational.
Great exploits never begin with talent, charisma, or opportunity. They begin with knowing God deeply—hearing His voice, walking with Him daily, and cultivating a relationship that is stronger than the noise of the world.
How did Daniel “know God”?
- He prayed three times a day—even when it was illegal.
- He fasted and sought God in seasons of confusion.
- He studied Scripture and believed God’s promises.
- He nurtured a lifestyle of holiness and integrity.
Knowing God is not a moment—it’s a daily pursuit.
Strength flows from relationship.
2. “…shall be strong” — Strength Is a Byproduct of Closeness
The Hebrew word for “strong” here means:
- to be firm
- to be courageous
- to be resilient
- to stand upright
This kind of strength does not come from personality.
It does not come from age or energy level.
It does not come from self-confidence.
It comes from God Himself.
When you know God:
- He strengthens your spirit.
- He steadies your emotions.
- He strengthens your convictions.
- He gives you courage when you naturally feel afraid.
Think of Daniel:
- Strong in purity as a teenager in Babylon.
- Strong in wisdom before kings.
- Strong in prayer in the lion’s den.
- Strong in prophetic visions in his old age.
When you know God, your inner man grows strong even if the world around you is shaking.
3. “…and carry out great exploits.” — God Uses Ordinary People
The word “exploits” simply means bold, courageous acts done for the glory of God.
This doesn’t necessarily mean:
- leading a nation,
- performing miracles,
- or being written about in history books.
“Great exploits” for God can be:
- Raising godly children in an ungodly culture
- Leading worship that helps people encounter Jesus
- Standing up for righteousness when others compromise
- Making disciples in everyday life
- Serving faithfully in the local church
- Loving people with Christ-like compassion
- Staying faithful when others fall away
In God’s Kingdom, faithfulness is an exploit.
Obedience is an exploit.
Loving well is an exploit.
And yes—sometimes God calls us to bigger moments:
- Praying boldly for the sick
- Sharing Christ in risky places
- Leading ministries
- Stepping out in faith when it’s uncomfortable
- Trusting God for supernatural breakthroughs
But the secret is this:
Those who know God don’t chase exploits—
Exploits follow those who know God.
4. This Promise Is for You Today
Daniel’s words are not locked in ancient history.
They are a prophetic declaration over God’s people in every generation—including you.
You can:
- Know God deeply
- Grow strong spiritually
- And do great things for His glory
Age doesn’t limit it.
Circumstances don’t limit it.
Weaknesses don’t disqualify it.
Your past doesn’t cancel it.
God is still writing stories through ordinary people who know Him well.
5. A Call to Pursue God in This Season
If you want strength…
If you long to be used by God…
If you desire a life that matters…
Then pursue the One who empowers it all.
Make Daniel 11:32 your prayer:
“Lord, I want to know You…
Make me strong…
And use my life for Your glory.”
Final Thought
History is full of men and women who knew God—
and because they knew Him,
they were strong,
and they did great exploits.
May this be the testimony of your life too.
Know God deeply.
Stand strong.
Do great things.
