In every children’s Bible storybook, we find the tale of Daniel in the lions’ den or the experience of Daniel’s friends in the fiery furnace. But the best life lesson lies between the lines.
According to archaeological evidence, Daniel spent about 70 years in Babylon. He was forcibly brought to this land as a handsome young man, possessing considerable knowledge. He was likely a member of the Jewish aristocracy, or at least what remained of it. Quickly, thanks to his astonishing wisdom for his young age, he gained the favor of the king’s stewards, who were tasked with overseeing him. About three years after he arrived in Babylon, he was brought before the king to give him not only the interpretation of his dream, but also a description of it (Daniel 2).
Even though the story of the fiery furnace is told in the following chapter, this incident would have taken place 30 years after the arrival in Babylon. And the lions’ den? Daniel would have been almost 80 years old! It is estimated that Daniel spent more than 70 years in this pagan territory, and the book that bears his name recounts fewer than ten significant events. What should we remember most about his life?
First, that Daniel never slackened in prayer. Even when there was a change of political regime, he was still recognized as being devoted to God. “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days” (Daniel 6:10 NKJV). He prayed three times a day! Not only did those around him recognize his devotion to God, but they could not help but recognize how devoted God was to Daniel, defending him and bestowing His wisdom upon him. The two-way relationship between Daniel and God was evident to everyone.
When we go through trials, we often spend time in prayer, imploring God’s favor. But when these trials end, how many of us reduce our prayer time? Our daily routine can easily steal our devotional time if we don’t make a conscious effort to incorporate it into our schedules. And even when we manage to set aside time each day with God, we are often distracted by our to-do list. Let us be inspired by Daniel!
Daniel’s 70 years in the service of a pagan king also teach us another lesson. He could have subtly sown discord in the kingdom to give his people a chance to break free from this tyrant. But no, he learned to let God be in control; Daniel didn’t take charge of the liberation. On the contrary, he served his king with submission and devotion. Even in a worldly job, under a government that didn’t share his faith at all, Daniel gave his best. “So the governors and satraps sought to find some charge against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find no charge or fault, because he was faithful; nor was there any error or fault found in him” (Daniel 6:4 NKJV).
Do our coworkers say the same thing about us? We sometimes think that a secular job isn’t worth as much effort as serving God. Some people envy those who are “full-time” in ministry. But Daniel worked for about 70 years in a secular company, always giving his best and keeping the company’s interests in mind. This devotion should also inspire us!
Maintaining a constant and enriching relationship with God in the midst of a routine life, and serving our worldly authorities with submission and respect; these are two lessons far less dramatic than the fiery furnace or the lions’ den, but they should inspire us just as much. Even if our photo albums only display the defining moments of our lives, it is what we do every day, in our worldly environment, that has the greatest impact on our lives. Singles, don’t just dream about your wedding day, start building yourselves up every day now, because a strong marriage is based on a good relationship with God every day, and devoted service no matter the circumstances.