READING: Daniel 6
During the reign of Darius the Mede (his relationship to Cyrus king of Persia [559–530 BC] mentioned in Daniel 10:1 is not clear), Daniel so distinguished himself that the commissioners and satraps saw him as a threat. To overthrow Daniel, they manipulated Darius to sign a document forbidding anyone to make a petition to any man or god but him for thirty days on pain of death. Knowing Daniel’s habit of praying three times a day, they accused him of violating the injunction. Darius was trapped by his own edict and forced to condemn Daniel to the lions’ den. The next morning, the king was delighted to find that God had delivered Daniel (who was over eighty years old at this point), and issued a decree honoring the God of Daniel.
Prayer
Lord, I thank You for the character, conviction, and faithfulness of Your servant Daniel, who never lost sight of who is in control and walked steadily with You in spite of fluctuating circumstances. May I also live a life that demands an explanation by walking with You throughout the years of my earthly sojourn.
Meditation passage: verses 5, 16, 22–23