In Daniel 6, King Darius made a decree that anyone who asked a petition of any God or any man for thirty days, except the king, would be cast into a den of lions. This created conflict for all the Hebrews living in the kingdom at that time. One in particular was Daniel. Verse 10 says, “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.” Daniel knew that although the king of the land had made such a decree, he must still serve the king of his heart- the one true God. Daniel showed great faith in living for the Lord even when persecution was guaranteed. He had already purposed ahead of time that he would live for the Lord. One part of that verse that sticks out to me is “as he did aforetime.” Daniel did not change his stance because of circumstance. The world around us is constantly waxing more wicked each day, but we must stand firm in the faith.
Self Reflection: Like Daniel, we are living in another's kingdom. We are on this earth under the rule of wicked leaders but we must still take a stand for God. As I think of Daniel’s actions, I ask myself how I would respond in such a situation. Am I truly living my life surrendered to the King of kings?