Read Daniel 6

Communicating With God

In the first chapter of Daniel that he had many good qualities as one of the “young men in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand” (Daniel 1:4). He conducted himself in such a way as a faithful child of God that “God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs” (Daniel 1:9).

Several years later, when Darius the Mede rose to power, Daniel had been promoted. “It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom one hundred and twenty satraps, to be over the whole kingdom; and over these, three governors, of whom Daniel was one, that the satraps might give account to them, so that the king would suffer no loss” (Daniel 6:1-2). Daniel performed his duties in such a way that he “distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm” (Daniel 6:3).

With great responsibility and authority, however, comes the jealousy of those over whom you serve. They sought some fault in him, but could find none, and settled for creating a new law that they knew Daniel would not obey. They convinced Darius to sign a law that forbade prayers or petitions of any god or man other than the king.

Of course, Daniel would not obey such a law. As a faithful child of God, he needed to communicate with God daily. Like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego, Daniel knew that God would deliver him from any punishment, even if he were “cast into the den of lions” (Daniel 6:7).

Exactly how committed are we to God? Are we so dependent upon Him that we feel the great need to communicate with Him every day? Jesus taught His disciples to pray for “daily bread” (Matthew 6:11). Paul encouraged the church in Thessalonica, “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). This is not an activity that is occasional for the Christian. The faithful child of God will pray to God every day, and many times every day!

Have you prayed to your Father in heaven today? If not, take a moment now to do so, and make a concerted effort each day from now on to spend time in prayer communicating with Him.