Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously. (Daniel 6:10 NAS95)
Daniel walked with God and through the years He grew to know both the heart of God and His love. Conversing with God sustained Daniel and formed Him in such a way that he would not live without it and he would not permit anything to stand in its way. His relationship and interaction with God made him distinct among his peers (the commissioners and satraps) in the government. So much so, they lived in jealousy toward Daniel, not understanding that God’s presence with Daniel distinguished him from them. They thought very little of the God of the Jews.
They made a decree that would condemn Daniel on the basis of his praying. Nothing, not even this decree, would stop Daniel from meeting with God even though his life was threatened. Due to his understanding of God that flowed from his interactive relationship, Daniel knew no matter what, he was safe. So he prayed to the one who rules — really rules. The evidence came as Daniel survived the lion’s den and the king, Darius, had a sleepless night. The king knew and didn’t know. He understood Daniel had a unique relationship with his God, but King Darius did not know whether He’d intervene. That morning both the commissioners and the King discovered what Daniel knew: Who truly rules (Dan 6:25-27). Prayer provides a pathway of interaction with God, our Father, that forms our heart understanding of Him. Daniel knew God’s love in his experience because he spent time conversing with Him. Prayer marked Daniel’s life. May it mark ours.
For Reflection:
“In the morning, O LORD, You will hear my voice; In the morning I will order my prayer to You and eagerly watch.” (Psalms 5:3 NAS95)
- What are you doing to cultivate and nurture your life with God?
- How easily do you sense God’s interaction with you in prayer? What sorts of things is He saying to you?
