Happy New Month, Dear Readers!
We are embarking on a powerful time in our generation. I am still in the book of Daniel because I am greatly encouraged by not only his spirit of excellence but also his deep reverence for the Lord. If you missed last month’s publication, you can find it here: “Living in Our Priestly Calling: Lessons from Daniel.”
The scripture tells us that Daniel had an extraordinary spirit, prayed three times a day, and gave thanks, offering prayers of petition to his God. Because of jealousy, the enemies of God plotted against him, knowing that the only way they could attack was by targeting his devotion to God. They tricked King Darius into signing a decree stating that for 30 days, anyone who petitioned any god or man except the King would be thrown into the lions’ den. The King, unaware of their deception, signed it, not realizing its impact on Daniel.
Daniel’s Unwavering Faith
What did Daniel do? Did he compromise under pressure? Absolutely not. Despite the decree, he remained steadfast. He went into his house, opened his windows toward Jerusalem, and three times a day, he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks—just as he had always done. His faith was deeply rooted and unshakable.
Even though the King favored Daniel, he could not revoke the decree. However, King Darius was so troubled that he spent the night fasting on behalf of Daniel (Daniel 6:16-18). This raises a question: Are we connected to people who will fast and intercede for us? Do we have a community of faith that stands with us in trials?
God’s Sovereign Deliverance
At dawn, the King rushed to the lions’ den and cried out, “Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you continually serve, been able to rescue you from the lions?” (Daniel 6:20). Daniel responded, “May the King live forever! My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths; they have not harmed me, for I was found innocent before Him. And also before you, Your Majesty, I have not done harm.” (Daniel 6:21-22).
Here’s something profound: Innocence is a spiritual technology that unlocks divine intervention. Daniel’s righteousness positioned him for deliverance, just as our innocence under the blood of Jesus secures our salvation.
The Power of Obedience and God’s Justice
The story does not end there. The King commanded that those who maliciously accused Daniel—along with their families—be thrown into the lions’ den, where they were instantly devoured (Daniel 6:24). While this seems harsh, it is a reminder that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19). Daniel did not fight his enemies; he remained steadfast, and God responded on his behalf.
The most powerful moment comes in Daniel 6:25-28, where King Darius issued a decree honoring Daniel’s God:
“I issue a decree that in all my royal dominion, people must tremble in fear before the God of Daniel. For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion has no end. He rescues and delivers; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth, for He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.” (Daniel 6:26-27).
This is the essence of true testimony—when our unwavering faith and obedience reveal God to others in such a way that they are moved to honor Him. Our conduct, character, and consciousness must align with truth, not just our words. Daniel’s life teaches us that our obedience in character and spiritual discipline speaks louder than anything we can say.
Practical Application: Walking in Nobleness Like Daniel
1. Remain Faithful in Prayer: Develop a disciplined prayer life. Seek God consistently, no matter the circumstances.
2. Stand Firm in Trials: Do not compromise your faith due to opposition or fear. Like Daniel, maintain your integrity and devotion to God.
3. Surround Yourself with a Strong Faith Community: Align with people who will intercede for you in difficult times.
4. Let Your Life Testify God’s Goodness: Live in such a way that people recognize and glorify God through your actions, not just your words.
5. Trust God’s Sovereignty: Know that God fights for those who trust Him. Rest in His justice and deliverance.
Dear readers, as we step into this new month, let Daniel’s story mentor us into a new dimension of glory. May we be found faithful, noble, and unwavering in our pursuit of God.
Your obedience today can be the catalyst for others to recognize and honor the living God.
Thank you for your five points of application. They offer helpful guidelines to continue to grow in our faith. 🙂