Our educational system is built on the contributions of original inventors and innovators. Plagiarism laws are established to protect these pioneers from those who seek to benefit from their work without proper acknowledgement. The world is full of individuals who excel at exploiting the innovations of others for personal gain. Properly attributing credit is highly valued in our competitive society. Daniel was highly esteemed for interpreting King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream when all his trusted magicians had failed.
Daniel replied, “No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these:” (Daniel 2:27-28 (NIV)
When the King sought to grant Daniel credit for revealing the mystery, Daniel did not shy away from the truth but disclosed the true originator. Instead of taking comfort in claiming credit for uncovering the hidden mystery, Daniel attributed the revelation to God in Heaven. As a God-fearing man, Daniel could not be accused of plagiarism. He was not as cunning as those who comfortably claim to be the originators of what God reveals to them.
We live in a world where God is not acknowledged for all that He grants humanity. For monetary gains, people seek to protect whatever God reveals to them. Such individuals possess an insatiable appetite and desire to be perceived as extraordinarily more intelligent than others. Achieving stellar accomplishments is highly rewarded financially, encouraging others to strive for similar recognition. Some may give lip service to acknowledging God but still maintain the appearance of being smarter than everyone else.
Asserting one’s intelligence over others is indicative of a decline, although such individuals may be envied for their arrogance. We inhabit a world driven by competition and self-preservation, with little regard for the welfare of others. The phenomenon of jealousy is evident even among young children. A school child deemed a genius and excelling academically may feel threatened when a newcomer demonstrates superior abilities. In this abnormal world, claiming to be smarter than others is deemed normal.
False data can be prevented by adhering to the principle of consulting the original source for any activity in which one excels. This underscores the necessity of referring to the manual at all times when using a gadget or anything of value. Second-hand information is unreliable and cannot be depended upon for accuracy. The functionality of any invention or innovation requires original validation. Relying on any other informant besides the original information provider is a recipe for disaster.
A World That Forgets Its Creator
Today, many reap financial rewards from discoveries and inventions without acknowledging God, the ultimate source of wisdom. Some may offer token thanks to Him, but their actions often reveal a deeper desire to appear superior.
Pride in human intellect is dangerous. While society applauds such arrogance, it ultimately leads to emptiness. We live in a competitive world where even children envy peers who outperform them. Claiming superiority has become normal—but it’s a distorted normalcy.
The Danger of Secondhand Knowledge
Reliable understanding comes only from original sources. Just as a machine’s manual provides the most accurate guidance, truth is found in the Creator’s design. Secondhand information is unreliable; only God’s wisdom is flawless.
God reveals truth to individuals, but they must be tested. Daniel’s interpretation was proven true by events. Similarly, ancient prophets were validated when their prophecies came to pass. Yet no prophet—no matter how gifted—should be exalted above God. Jesus warned His disciples not to idolize any human leader (Matthew 23:9).
Every Person Has a Divine Purpose
Each of us is uniquely designed by God and equipped to contribute to the world. Great scientists and inventors uncover truths that already existed in God’s creation. Their role is to discover, not claim ownership. Instead of seeking applause, they should honor the One who made such discoveries possible.
A person’s achievements may earn praise, but the glory belongs to God. Even our lives are in His hands. There’s no need to envy others—each of us has a purpose. The greatest tragedy isn’t failure but succeeding without fulfilling why we were created.
The Ultimate Example: Jesus
Jesus, born in humble circumstances, faced relentless opposition yet fulfilled His mission. He declared:
“I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6), showing that Jesus requires following, without looking aside.
His life demonstrated that true success comes from obedience to God, not human acclaim. Many die without fulfilling their purpose, but Jesus showed us how to overcome obstacles and complete our calling.
Conclusion: Give Glory to the True Originator
In a world obsessed with self-promotion, Daniel’s humility stands as a timeless model. Whether in science, art, or daily life, we must recognize God as the source of all wisdom. Our greatest fulfillment comes not from personal glory but from honoring Him and fulfilling His purpose for our lives.
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions–-leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
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