There was a new king in town. Daniel, still a captive, had risen to a place of distinction with King Darius.
“Daniel distinguished himself above the administrators and satraps because he had an extraordinary spirit, so the king planned to set him over the whole realm.” Daniel 6:3 HCSB
Was the king gullible or just not paying attention? His officials, jealous that Daniel was going to receive honor they wanted for themselves, came up with a plan. They suggested the king outlaw for one month worship to anyone but himself.
“So King Darius signed the document. When Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house. The windows in its upper room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before.” Daniel 6:9-10 HCSB
Just as he had done before. He had already established his faithfulness to God.
“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!’ (…) Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting. No diversions were brought to him, and he could not sleep. Daniel 6:16, 18 HCSB
Then came the morning:
“My God sent His angel and shut the lions’ mouths. They haven’t hurt me, for I was found innocent before Him. Also, I have not committed a crime against you my king.” Daniel 6:22 HCSB
Today we should pray that our lives, our worship to Jesus, our King forever, will be established. For the glory and honor of our God Who reigns on high!
“‘I issue a decree that in all my royal dominion, people must tremble in fear before the God of Daniel: For He is the living God, and He endures forever; His kingdom will never be destroyed, and His dominion has no end. He rescues and delivers; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth, for He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.’” Daniel 6:26-27 HCSB