Daniel – Thrown In The Lion’s Den

His ministry lasted seventy years in exile under three different kings. But Daniel’s one passion never wavered. An Israelite by birth, Daniel loved God with his whole heart.

When Daniel and his friends were first taken captive as young teens, he refused the king’s rich palace food to remain on a more God-honoring diet. And God honored him with increased leadership.

When King Nebuchadnezzar had a puzzling dream he couldn’t figure out, Daniel pointed him to the One who gives and interprets dreams. Through Daniel, God’s glory grew even in the midst of intensely pagan surroundings. And Daniel’s influence grew even greater.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego–all friends of Daniel’s–demonstrated their own devotion when they refused to bow down to Nebuchadnezzar’s giant idol. They remained obedient to God even to their intended death, when they were thrown into a blazing furnace. But God in His grace rescued them, delivering them safely without even the smell of smoke touching their bodies.

Daniel, himself, faced a similar experience when jealous officials plotted his death. Though he was thrown in the lions’ den for praying to God, the lions’ mouths stayed shut as God’s angel spared Daniel’s life. Delighted in God’s goodness, King Darius praised the One who saved his friend.

Through every trying event, Daniel gave glory to God. Mid-way through the book, God opened Daniel’s eyes to see His glory even more. Through a series of divine visions, God gave Daniel a glimpse into heaven where he saw the future—of Israel and the world. The precise accuracy of his predictions led some scholars later to question Daniel’s authorship of the book, concluding it must have been written after the events unfolded, but other evidence refutes their doubts. As one man who drew close to God his entire life, Daniel experienced more intimacy and insight into heavenly matters than almost anyone else. His stories and prophecies point each of us to the One God who reigns over all, orchestrating every event for His eternal glory.

Who was Daniel and why did God choose him?

Was Daniel faithful to God? What did he do?

What did God show Daniel?

Are faithful to the Lord in difficult times?

How does Daniel relate to your life?