The Lions’ Den
Scripture Reading — Daniel 6:16-28
The king gave the order, and they brought Daniel and threw him into the lions’ den.
Daniel was a faithful follower of the Lord, even though he lived in exile in Babylon. And he had been appointed as one of the king’s top administrators. The other administrators were jealous of Daniel, however, and they wanted to destroy him. So they tricked the king into making a decree that said anyone who prayed to any god except the king should be thrown into a den of hungry lions (Daniel 6:1-9).
What did Daniel do in response to that? He prayed to God, asking for help. Daniel trusted in God because he knew that God is more powerful than any king or decree.
Did Daniel complain to God? Did Daniel claim it was not right to end his life in a lions’ den when he had been faithful all his life? No, Daniel did not do things like that. Instead, he praised God and gave thanks for all of God’s blessings, even in this difficult situation. And the next morning, when the king went to check on him, Daniel said, “My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions.”
Later, however, when the king had Daniel’s enemies thrown into the lions’ den for trying to destroy Daniel, God punished them. “Before they reached the floor of the den, the lions overpowered them and crushed all their bones.”
God is alive and has power over even our worst enemies. Hallelujah!
Almighty God, help us in your strength to overcome whatever trials we may face. Guide us to seek you and to honor you always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
About the author — Jang Ho Park
Jang Ho Park is a pastor in Tacoma, Washington. He and his wife, Jong Boon, have two sons.
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