Thanksgiving Day (USA)

Has the God whom you serve so constantly been able to save you? 

You can imagine the headlines:   “Brave Jewish Man Survives Lions’ Den.”   We naturally marvel at Daniel’s courage and composure, but there is another part of this story worth exploring.   When Daniel comes out of the den unharmed, King Darius issues a decree stating that Daniel’s God will from now on be honored and revered throughout his kingdom.   That’s how powerful Daniel’s witness was.

Of course, Darius’ relationship with Daniel didn’t begin with the lions’ den.   The early chapters of this book portray Daniel as a wise statesman.  He probably knew all the ins and outs of palace life and interacted at the highest levels of government.   And all along, he continued to worship and obey the one true God.   Over time, Daniel’s faithful witness gained the attention and respect of Darius.   It didn’t happen all at once; it was the result of Daniel’s everyday faithfulness.

Whether you work in a high-level corporate position or on a construction site, whether you are a stay-at-home mom or a powerful government official, you can be a witness just like Daniel.   How?   By working diligently at your job and witnessing to the Lord when the opportunities arise.

This is how evangelization usually starts.  It mostly takes place in the course of everyday life and arises out of our day-to-day interactions.   It’s hard for people to gloss over the witness of a life of faith.   They will see the unique way you treat people—with respect and compassion.   They will notice how your faith shapes the way you spend your time, the decisions you make, and even the clothes you wear.   It all adds up and points people to the God you worship and his love and grace.

Daniel’s night in the lions’ den was one more act, albeit a big one, of faithfulness.   But he could never have done it if it weren’t for all the little acts of faithfulness he had performed along the way.   So aim to be like Daniel, wherever you are and whatever you’re doing.   And if you ever have to face something that feels like the lions’ den, know that all your little choices to live faithfully will have prepared you well.

“Lord, help me to be like Daniel, to boldly follow you and be a witness to the world around me.”

(Psalm) Daniel 3:68-74
Luke 21:20-28

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