February 2, 2023
Then Daniel went to his house, and made the thing known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions: That they would desire mercies of the God of heaven concerning this secret; that Daniel and his fellows should not perish with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. Daniel 2:17-18
Life is filled with adversity. Job said, “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble.” (Job 14:1) You may face troubles, even a crisis, and it’s possible to get through with God’s help. Daniel was able to deal with his crisis because he took his concern to God.
What was Daniel’s crisis? King Nebuchadnezzar decreed to slay all of the wise men, Daniel and his friends included. Apparently Daniel was busy with his appointed responsibilities when Arioch, captain of the king’s guard, arrived to arrest him. It seems Daniel was completely unaware of the situation and the decree issued by the king.
Although he may have been taken by surprise, Daniel was ready to act.
Poise
The first thing noticed about Daniel is that fear did not dictate his conduct. He did not panic. Daniel refused to make an emotional decision.
The Bible warns us about lack of self-control and directs us to be filled with the Spirit (Proverbs 25:28, Ephesians 5:25). When led by the Spirit you will honor God with your conduct and choices. Daniel was able to deal with the current crisis because he kept his emotions in check.
Daniel kept his cool, which helped him keep his life.
Persistence
Daniel chose to address the situation instead of ignoring it. Pretending a problem does not exist will not eliminate it, and it just might make things worse. Daniel politely persisted. He approached Arioch and respectfully inquired about the decree. Daniel spoke with care, caution and confidence. Care for his life, caution so not to upset things, and confidence in God.
Daniel found Arioch to be helpful. He was given details concerning the king, the dream, and the failure of the wise men. Upon receiving this information Daniel immediately requested a hearing with King Nebuchadnezzar.
After receiving permission and being presented to the king, Daniel had one request. More time. Daniel believed that God could and would provide the interpretation but he needed time to talk to the LORD. Daniel’s courage and boldness did not come from his strength but because of his faith in God’s power.
The king granted the request. Daniel faced the crisis instead of ignoring it and he was given time to deal with the problem.
Prayer
Armed with the information and time, Daniel went home and shared the details with his companions. Together they took the problem to God, which is what God wants us to do with all of our cares. (1 Peter 5:6-7) Setting aside their plans, ideas, experiences, and education, the young men trusted completely in the LORD.
Approaching God with reverence, they asked for His mercy concerning the dream, knowing He alone was able to give the interpretation. The young men also asked for His mercy over their lives. They understood the serious consequences. Failure meant death.
The LORD blessed. Daniel was given the interpretation and their lives were spared.
Practical Thoughts
Like Daniel’s life, the LORD knows yours will also be filled with concerns and cares. God is willing to carry your burdens if you give them to Him.
Daniel’s poise and persistence provided an opportunity for God to work. Daniel just had to pray and wait upon the LORD for the answer.
You’re unable to choose the problems you face but you can decide how to deal with them. Like Daniel it’s best to control your emotions, address the problem, and go to God with your cares. The crisis may seem insurmountable but if you trust in the LORD you may find out, like Daniel did, that “with God all things are possible.”
The test before them was great. They would discover that their God was greater.