My father worked for the U.S. Office of Special Counsel. He once investigated a case involving a government employee who blew the whistle on the U.S. Secretary of State. I remember thinking how courageous the person must have been to stand in their integrity knowing it would cost them their career.
Daniel was similar. His outward life mirrored his inward convictions. By the time we read Daniel 6, Daniel was over eighty years old and had a well-established lifestyle of praying three times a day (Daniel 6:10).
Whatever Daniel prayed during this time, I am convinced his prayer life was driven by devotion to God, not answers from God. By choosing to please God, Daniel’s devotion built integrity, which in turn created habits that opened a window to his Heavenly Father.
“Then the other administrators and high officers began searching for some fault in the way Daniel was handling government affairs, but they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy.” (Dan. 6:4)
When jealousy roared in the hearts of Daniel’s coworkers, they pandered to the ego of a powerful man. They knew the only way Daniel would fail the king would be to attack his relationship with God.
Where does Satan know you might fail the Almighty King? What is the one desire you cannot shake? The wrong your mind replays demanding justice? What need do you strive to fulfill rather than asking God? This is your lions’ den.
What you do matters. It matters because of God’s purpose for your life. Daniel honored God. He was not sinless, but when challenged he chose God. Because of the gift of the Holy Spirit, you too can stand in your integrity when facing threat and say, “I honored God and didn’t do any wrong.” (see Titus 2:11-14)
“Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) But “Look closely, the Lion of the tribe of Judah, the Root of David, has overcome and conquered!” (Revelation 5:5) Just as Daniel was sealed in the lions’ den, Christ was sealed in the tomb. In both cases, these dens of death brought God greater glory. Daniel was delivered from death and Jesus Christ overcame it once for all.
The God that “...delivers and rescues; he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions” is your God too, my friend. (Dan. 6:27) Determine today to courageously honor Him even if it might cost you.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You that You rule in my life. You are my refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. I commit myself to pleasing You. Help me keep my integrity regardless of the circumstances. In Jesus’ mighty name, I pray. Amen.