Read: Daniel 6:19–28
Bible in a Year: 1 Chronicles 1–3; John 5:25–47
He is the living God and He endures forever. Daniel 6:26
When I visited a museum in Chicago, I saw one of the original
Striding Lions of Babylon. It was a large mural-type image of a winged
lion with a ferocious expression. Symbolizing Ishtar, the Babylonian
goddess of love and war, the lion was an example of 120 similar lions
that would have lined a Babylonian pathway during the years of 604–562 bc.
Historians say that after the Babylonians defeated Jerusalem, the
Hebrew captives would have seen these lions during their time in
Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom. Historians also say it’s likely that some of
the Israelites would have believed Ishtar had defeated the God of
Israel.
Daniel, one of the Hebrew captives, did not
share the doubts that might have troubled some of his fellow
Israelites. His view of God and his commitment to God stayed steady. He
prayed three times a day—with his windows open—even when he knew it
would mean entering a den of lions. After God rescued Daniel from the
hungry animals, King Darius said, “[Daniel’s God] is the living God and
he endures forever . . . . He rescues and he saves” (Dan. 6:26–27).
Daniel’s faithfulness allowed him to influence Babylonian leaders.
Staying faithful to God despite pressure and discouragement can inspire other people to give Him glory.
Dear God, give me the strength to continue to trust in You when I am discouraged. Help me to experience Your never-ending love and stay close to Your side.
Faithfulness to God inspires others.
© 2017 Our Daily Bread Ministries
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