Everyday when I travel to pick up our grandson at his Mommy's office, we pass two large lion statues. He insists we honk and "Roaaaaaar" at the lions everyday. One day as I glanced at the lions in my rear view mirror, the story of Daniel in the lions' den scurried through my mind.
This Biblical accounts begins by telling us about Daniel's respected character and the positive influence he had on those around him. He knew a personal God and it reflected in all that he said and did. Such should be our goal in life. Others attempted to find faults and accuse Daniel, however, the Bible tells us, "...They could find no corruption in him, because he was trustworthy and neither corrupt or negligent." What an honorable statement to be made about Daniel and a statement that each Christian should make his or her goal to attain.
The corrupt government (is anyone listening?) decided that if anyone attempted to pray to anyone other than the King, that he would be tossed into the lions' den. When this example of arrogance and misuse of political power exists, whether in the time of Daniel or in 2010, God will only allow it for so long. Despite corrupt governments' best efforts, God will always intervene and rescue His children.
When Daniel learned of this decree, did he hunker down and stop praying to his God, our God? Did he allow fear to buckle his knees and seal his lips, never to utter praise or prayer to the God of the Universe? Never in a million years! Daniel threw open his window and not once, not twice, but three times daily he fell to his knees and prayed and praised. How many times in our lives do the threats of others or the fear of what others might think, keep us from praying and praising God as He desires?
Daniel was confronted about his acts of faith by some of the King's cronies and they reported his disregard to the King's orders to the King. I find it intriguing that initially we are informed that the King was "greatly distressed" when he heard the reports about Daniel.
Daniel was forced into the lion's den. All thoughts of a possible human escape were thwarted when a large stone was placed at the opening. Knowing that the blood of Daniel would be upon him, the king had a sleepless, restless night. When we operate outside of God's will and plan for our lives, do you recognize the same tossing and turning of our spirits? We are uneasy and not at peace in our souls whenever disobedience reigns.
Much to the relief of the King, he learned that God had protected Daniel through the night. Hungry lions are not known to sit idly by and observe their prey but that is exactly what had happened when God had intervened as David's Protector. Not even a scratch could be found on Daniel's body, much to the King's relief.
The King's heart was opened to the sovereignty of God that day. He openly expressed his new found faith to the people of his kingdom. He testified of God's endurance and dominion over the earth. A life changed by the intervention and power of God Almighty is an amazing miracle. The stoniest of hearts and most evil perpetrators can be reborn when they experience the power, grace, love and forgiveness of God.
Often times, as God's children (just like Daniel) we must endure difficult life experiences. When I read this passage of Scripture it inspires me when I consider the faith and lack of fear that Daniel exhibits. He lived an obedient life despite the chances it could threaten his physical life. No mention of fear or trembling is made when Daniel learns of his destination with the lions. And in the end we learn that God spared Daniels' life and he continued to prosper. May we replicate this example of faith in the midst of dire circumstances.
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