Daniel 9:20-23 – Persist in prayer.

Gabriel, meaning “God is great,” is God's messenger. The first time he visited Daniel was recorded at 8:16. Daniel said he saw a figure resembling a man standing beside him. He heard a man’s voice calling out to Gabriel to elucidate the vision for him. We were told that as Gabriel approached, Daniel was overcome with fear and prostrated on his face. On the floor, he was told, “Son of man, understand that the vision pertains to the time of the end.”

The second time Gabriel appears to Daniel is recorded here in Daniel 9:21. It takes place amidst Daniel’s extreme weariness. It happened during the time of the evening offering, a time when the Jews were supposed to offer their evening sacrifice. Daniel never forgot this sacred moment though they were forbidden to offer sacrifice in exile. Daniel was praying and confessing his sin and the sin of the people of Israel. In this state of exhaustion, Gabriel appeared, bringing profound comfort and reassurance. The angel’s appearance must have brought hope to Daniel’s heart.  

Gabriel, with his divine authority, talked and instructed Daniel.  He told the latter that he came to give him profound insight and understanding of the future. He urged the prophet to take heed and pay utmost attention to the explanation he was about to give concerning his vision.  In our next reflection on verses 24-27, we shall delve into Gabriel’s explanation of the vision and examine its importance. 

Daniel's encounter with the angel Gabriel teaches us the importance of persevering in prayer. Despite being exhausted, he did not stop praying and confessing his sins and the sins of his people. His steadfastness in prayer was rewarded when Gabriel appeared to him, bringing comfort and reassurance. 

Similarly, when we stay consistent in our prayer life, even when we feel tired, discouraged, or overwhelmed. We must never give up on prayer; instead, we must continue to bring our concerns and requests before God. 

Like Daniel, our persistence in prayer will lead to breakthroughs and revelations from God. So, remain committed to prayer, even when it seems complicated. Just trust that God always hears our prayers and will give us an answer in his perfect timing.