Daniel's Faithful Stand

Daniel was a faithful man of God (v. 3a), and king “Darius the Median” (Dan 5:31), wanted to promote him. But Daniel’s enemies were envious because they could neither find error nor fault in him (v. 4). They knew that Daniel was a man of prayer, so they convinced Darius to sign a decree against anyone who would be found praying (v. 7). But this royal edict did not change Daniel’s routine of praying and giving thanks to God “three times a day.” He knew about God’s promises to the exiles (1 Ki 8:49). He chose obedience to God over the opportunity of being promoted by a human king (v. 3b). He prayed with his windows open, because he was not ashamed of his faith and devotion to God (Ps 81:10).

He would rather bow before God (Isa 26:4), than before his enemies! He would rather be found faithful (Ps 37:5), than enjoy the popularity and wealth (Josh 24:14). He was willing to sacrifice his life and was determined to obey God (Acts 5:29)! Our local churches today would be vastly different if members had the same kind of commitment and dedication that Daniel had. Sadly, many have allowed “the love of money” (1 Tim 6:10), the world, and popularity (1 Jn 2:15), to come between them and their faithfulness to God.

Many have neglected to attend church services (Heb 10:25), because their priorities to God (Mt 6:33), have been reversed, revised, and even removed! Instead of yielding their bodies to God (Rom 12:1), they have sacrificed their testimonies, and their love for Him on the altar of convenience, materialism, and worldly ambitions! We need to pray that God would raise up modern-day Daniels, who would never give up their faith, who would never give in to the flesh, and who would remain faithful unto death! God bless you!

- Pastor Melito Barrera