“So the king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, ‘May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!’”

Daniel 6:16
What did the unbelieving king expect when he ordered Daniel into a lions’ den? He recognized something special about Daniel’s character and abilities and really didn’t want to lose him. But the decree was set; there was no changing it. So Daniel would die, as King Darius expected.
It’s interesting to see that early the next morning this same king went to the lions’ den and called out to Daniel before he could even see him. The ruler of a nation who had no relationship with God was exhibiting expectant faith! Over the years, Darius must have seen the many times Daniel had trusted his faithful God. Now he believed Daniel’s God would save him. The Lord did indeed come to the rescue. And the pagan king praised Him (v. 26).
Daniel’s life surely had pointed the king to God. Your own life may do the same for a person you think is unlikely to ever put his faith in Jesus. I hope someone might see something in my life which would point them to the Lord. God was able to turn a king’s heart. He is still changing hearts today.



Scripture Focus

Daniel 6:1-28

Insight

“Gracious Spirit, dwell with me,/ I myself would gracious be,/ And with words that help and heal,/ Would Thy life in mine reveal.” (Thomas T. Lynch, 1855)

Bible In A Year

  • 1 Kings 13-14
  • Proverbs 6
  • Hebrews 7-8

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