Sunday, 7 April 2024

Daniel 6:14-18 – Enduring trials make us effective witnesses.

King Darius did not get angry with Daniel when he was informed about his violation of the law. He was disappointed instead of furious, which showed how different he was from Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 3. Darius might have known he had been tricked, but it was too late. He had unknowingly fallen into a trap.

The conspirators presented the news to Darius cleverly. They knew that Darius might be sympathetic to Daniel, so they reminded him, “Remember, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians that no decree or statute the king establishes can be changed.”

Despite his reluctance, Darius hesitantly sent Daniel into the lions' den. Verse 17 makes it clear that Daniel could not escape. "A stone was brought and placed over the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet ring and with the signet rings of his nobles so that nothing would be changed regarding Daniel."

However, before Darius sent Daniel to his death, he comforted him with reassuring words, saying, “Your God, whom you constantly serve, will deliver you.” He was more anxious than Daniel. Verse 18 says that he spent the night fasting. He neither takes any food nor indulges in any entertainment, but spent a sleepless night worrying about Daniel. 

Daniel was God's effective witness. Darius' assurance to him before sending him into the lions’ den shows his effectiveness. He brought Darius to the brink of acknowledging the power of God to save. Here, we see how we face a trial that can help others to know the value of trusting Him. Paul in Romans 5:3-5 reminds us that “tribulation brings perseverance and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint.” Learn to stay strong in trials.

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