Category Archives: Prayer or Panic?

What Am I Thankful For??? A Thanksgiving Word for today! #6

06 Sunday Nov 2022

Posted by in Abiding IN Jesus or the World?, Bow Before our God, Consider Your ways, Glory of God, Gratitude, Gratitude Is Timeless, Praise God Today!, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, Thankful, Thanksgiving

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What Am I Thankful For???  A Thanksgiving Word for today! #6

When I don’t know how I’ll make it, what do I do?  I bow before The King of Kings and Lord of Lords, who cares about everything that comes into my life and yours!!

“Rejoice in the Lord alway:

and again I say, Rejoice.

5 Let your moderation

be known unto all men.

The Lord is at hand.

6 Be careful for nothing;

but in every thing

by prayer and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known

unto God.

7 And the peace of God,

which passeth all understanding,

shall keep your hearts and minds

through Christ Jesus.”  Philippians 4:4-7

Taking every single one of our “requests” to “be made known unto God”!  All because HE cares for us. And Paul goes on to remind us of how to keep our hearts and minds set on Jesus and tuned in to God’s ways.

“Finally, brethren,

whatsoever things are true,

whatsoever things are honest,

whatsoever things are just,

whatsoever things are pure,

whatsoever things are lovely,

whatsoever things are of good report;

if there be any virtue,

and if there be any praise,

think on these things.”  Philippians 4:8

The prophet Micah writes an amazing instruction regarding our posture before our God, as well as what our God desires from us!  And when we think on these eight things that Paul recommends, we will find the strength, grace, and truth to stand “against the wiles of the devil” no matter the circumstances–standing in Jesus, our truth!

“Wherewith shall I come before the LORD,

and bow myself before the high God?

shall I come before him

with burnt offerings,

with calves of a year old?

7 Will the LORD be pleased

with thousands of rams,

or with ten thousands of rivers of oil?

shall I give my firstborn

for my transgression,

the fruit of my body

for the sin of my soul?

8 He hath shewed thee, O man,

what is good;

and what doth the LORD require of thee,

but to do justly,

and to love mercy,

and to walk humbly

with thy God?”  Micah 6:6-8

And how do we “walk humbly with thy God”?  John revealed the answer to Nicodemus, and it’s still true for everyone who will receive it today!

“For God so loved the world,

that he gave

his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son

into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world

through him might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him

is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name of the only begotten

Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.”  John 3:16-19

 I pray that you will find comfort, encouragement, and hope in these Thanksgiving posts; and be sure and keep that “attitude of gratitude”!  Remember, you can be “humbly grateful, or grumbly hateful”!  It’s your choice but remember there is a test!

“In every thing give thanks:

for this is the will of God

in Christ Jesus

concerning you.”  1 Thessalonians 5:18

Amen and Amen!!!

 

Pray For Someone Else??? A Word from THE WORD!!! #19

07 Thursday Jul 2022

Posted by in Broken Hearts, Check Your Knees???, Choices And Consequences, Choose You This Day!, Choosing Jesus or The World?, Following Jesus, For Such A Time As This, Intercessors, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, Standing in the GAP!

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Pray For Someone Else???  A Word from THE WORD!!! #19

Say what?  I want us to consider taking our Lord’s advice and example.  What do I mean?  Well, what I mean is that our Lord was in excruciating pain, yet HE chose to pray for us in His hour of greatest need (in the human perspective); He took that time of extreme distress and prayed for the forgiveness of those who were ridiculing HIM, those who were mocking HIM, those who were oblivious of what was really happening, as well as those of us who would need redemption so far down the road—you and me—in fact for all who would receive His saving grace in repentance and faith in His substitutionary, atoning sacrifice which HE completed that day!!  He also extended grace to a dying thief, hanging next to Him, when he asked for it!  He didn’t stop there; He also appointed the Apostle John to care for His mother!

One of the few things that Jesus said in regard to Himself, was recorded by Matthew and Mark:

“Now from the sixth hour

there was darkness over all the land

unto the ninth hour.

46 And about the ninth hour

Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying,

Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?

that is to say,

My God, my God,

why hast thou forsaken me?”  Matthew 26:45-46

And even this was to fulfill scripture:

“My God, my God,

why hast thou forsaken me?

why art thou so far

from helping me,

 and from the words

of my roaring?”  Psalm 22:1.

(And I would encourage you to read Psalm 22 in its entirety!)

Jesus came to die in our place and even in this time when physical pain was racking his body, mind and spirit, His main thought was of we who are ever in need of His grace and love.  Yet when we are in pain what is our first thought?  Usually, to moan and complain to God and man (maybe you’re better than I am, but that is usually my ‘go to’ choice); but I’m calling us to take the example of Jesus and learn to take those moments of anguish and pain and become Christ-like intercessors.  So, let’s look at what Jesus said on His way to Calvary, as well as His final words from the cross, and take them to heart—for He spoke those words directed toward not only those who were physically present, but to you and me today!

“And there followed him a great company of people,

and of women,

which also bewailed

and lamented him.

28 But Jesus turning unto them said,

Daughters of Jerusalem,

weep not for me,

but weep for yourselves,

and for your children.

29 For, behold, the days are coming,

in the which they shall say,

Blessed are the barren,

and the wombs that never bare,

and the paps which never gave suck.

30 Then shall they begin to say

to the mountains,

Fall on us;

and to the hills,

Cover us.

31 For if they do these things in a green tree,

what shall be done in the dry?”  Luke 23:27-31

To put it simply, Jesus was telling them, even though you see this with your own eyes, this is NOT the end, and worse things will come—but never a better, except for the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, JESUS—crucified, buried yet raised again to ever live and have victory over sin, death, and hell!

“Behold, he cometh with clouds;

and every eye shall see him,

and they also which pierced him:

and all kindreds of the earth

shall wail because of him.

Even so, Amen.

8 I am Alpha and Omega,

the beginning

and the ending,

saith the Lord,

which is,

and which was,

 and which is to come,

the Almighty.”  Revelation 1:7-8

So, back to the cross:

“And when they were come to the place,

which is called Calvary,

there they crucified him,

and the malefactors,

one on the right hand,

and the other on the left.

34 Then said Jesus,

Father, forgive them;

for they know not what they do.

And they parted his raiment,

and cast lots.

35 And the people stood beholding.

And the rulers also with them

derided him, saying,

He saved others;

let him save himself,

if he be Christ, the chosen of God.

36 And the soldiers also

mocked him,

coming to him,

and offering him vinegar,

37 And saying,

If thou be the king of the Jews,

save thyself.

38 And a superscription also was written

over him in letters

of Greek,

and Latin,

and Hebrew,

THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS.”  Luke 23:33-38

With their own eyes they saw Him, with their own ears they had heard Him, with their own hearts they rejected HIM!  How about you?  For HE continued in compassion, love, and grace to shed HIS life’s blood for them, for you, and for me!  Will we receive it or reject, rebuke, and ridicule the LORD of all creation—the Redeemer of all who will believe and come to HIM alone for salvation!  The ultimate of examples of man’s opportunity and Christ Jesus’ offer of grace even when rejection seems to rule.

“And one of the malefactors

which were hanged railed on him, saying,

If thou be Christ,

save thyself

and us.

40 But the other answering rebuked him, saying,

Dost not thou fear God,

seeing thou art in the same condemnation?

41 And we

indeed justly;

for we receive the due reward

of our deeds:

but this man hath done nothing amiss.

42 And he said unto Jesus,

Lord, remember me

when thou comest into thy kingdom.

43 And Jesus said unto him,

Verily I say unto thee,

To day

shalt thou be with me

in paradise.”  Luke 23:39-43

Which one will you be?  The rejector or the acceptor—one who will receive grace and eternal life or the condemnation justly due?

“For God so loved the world,

that he gave his only begotten Son,

that whosoever believeth in him

should not perish,

but have everlasting life.

17 For God sent not his Son into the world

to condemn the world;

but that the world through him

might be saved.

18 He that believeth on him

 is not condemned:

but he that believeth not

is condemned already,

because he hath not believed

in the name of the only begotten Son of God.

19 And this is the condemnation,

that light is come into the world,

and men loved darkness

rather than light,

because their deeds were evil.”  John 3:16-19

Let’s look at the last few things that Jesus said from the cross, for our perusal and consideration.  What do you/I “care” about?

“When Jesus therefore saw his mother,

and the disciple standing by,

whom he loved,

he saith unto his mother,

Woman, behold thy son!

27 Then saith he to the disciple,

Behold thy mother!

And from that hour that disciple

took her unto his own home.”  John 19:26-27

 And the other human request that Jesus made:

“After this,

Jesus knowing that all things

were now accomplished,

that the scripture might be fulfilled,

saith,

I thirst.

29 Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar:

and they filled a spunge with vinegar,

and put it upon hyssop,

and put it to his mouth.

30 When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar,

he said,

It is finished:

and he bowed his head,

and gave up the ghost.”   John 19:28-30

So, the thing I want us to consider, is this precious thing that Jesus did in HIS most difficult hour; HE thought of others when HIS own need was beyond our understanding.  What will you and I do when we are in need?  When we don’t know what to do, or where to go; will we take heart from our Redeemer and keep our focus on others?  Will we pray “Father forgive THEM”, or hold onto our grudges; will we pray “Father into thine hands….” and let it go, or will we stubbornly hold onto our own way, our own needs, our own problems?  Or will we pray for those in need around us, for those we know are serving God in precarious circumstances, for those who need an intercessor desperately?  Will we follow our Lord into battle for the needy, or moan and groan about the place that God has allowed us to be in?  It’s your choice, and mine!  Please, Father, teach us to remember to rehearse the commands of The Master, “THY kingdom come…THY will be done”, not only for me but those around me with needs greater than mine.  May I remember to count my blessings, and stand in the gap for others as God called and equipped us to do?  Ezekiel said it best, and I’ll close with his message from God.  Will you join me in praying for others, seeking God’s face on behalf of those in need, especially when we are hurting, in pain, in confusion, or just stumped physically or spiritually; God is never ‘stumped’, nor does HE ever say “oooops”?  May we ever “stand in the gap” instead of focusing on self—speaking the “truth in love”—but speaking GOD’S TRUTH—not man’s; and lifting other to the throne of grace!

“The people of the land have

used oppression,

and exercised robbery,

and have vexed the poor and needy:

yea, they have oppressed

the stranger wrongfully.

30 And I sought for a man among them,

that should make up the hedge,

and stand in the gap

before me for the land,

that I should not destroy it:

but I found none.

31 Therefore have I poured out mine indignation

 upon them;

I have consumed them with the fire of my wrath:

their own way have I recompensed

upon their heads,

saith the Lord GOD.”  Ezekiel 22:29-31

How sad!  God have mercy!!!  Amen and Amen!!!

The Whole Armor Examined??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #766

26 Friday Nov 2021

Posted by in Approved Unto God, Are You Ready, Armor of God, Power of The Cross, PRAY! PRAY! PRAY!, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, Stand Fast!, The Word, The Word Or The World?

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #766   The Whole Armor Examined???

 

I would like us to look at Paul’s admonition to “put on the whole armour of God”, and hopefully be encouraged to ‘suit up’ and prepare ourselves for the things that God is calling us to be, and do, as we “withstand in the evil day”! I pray that God will speak to your heart—for may it ever be HIS message, not mine!

“Finally,—in conclusion of all the previous instructions-

 Colossians 3:16

  Philippians 4:8

my brethren,–The born again, transformed children of God—

John 3:3, 5-6

John 1:12-13

Revelation 12:11

be strong—we are called to be strong not weak—

2 Samuel 22:33

in the Lord,

and in the power of his might.—our strength isn’t our own, but totally of God, as we yield to and depend upon Father, Son and Holy Spirit daily, step by step–

1 Corinthians 4:20

Acts 1:8

Job 36:22

Psalm 147:5

Matthew 9:6

1 Corinthians 1:18

11 Put on the whole armour of God,–PUT IT ON—ALL OF IT—EVERY DAY—walk, serve, minister in it—

2 Corinthians 6:1-10

1 Thessalonians 5:8

Romans 13:12-14

**Galatians 3:27**

**Ephesians 4:24**

Colossians 3:12-14

that ye may be able to stand—ABLE to stand by God’s power and to HIS glory in all we do (suited up) no matter what others do—

Jeremiah 6:16

Romans 5:1-2

1 Corinthians 2:5

1 Corinthians 10:12

1 Corinthians 15:1-5

Philippians 4:1

against the wiles of the devil.—we have an enemy, a trickster, a deceiver, a liar who seeks to “steal… kill… and to destroy…”. We must be vigilant and AWARE—

1 Peter 5:8-9

John 8:44

Ezekiel 28:1-6

Isaiah 14:12-15

12 For we wrestle not against flesh and blood,—our battle isn’t against the people around us but the unseen forces at work continually around us. Don’t set your heart against people but keep your eyes “fixed on Jesus”; remembering that “the battle is not yours, but God’s” (See 2 Chronicles 20:15+/-)—

Matthew 16:17

1 Corinthians 15:50

but against principalities,                                                                        against powers,                                                                                  against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.—our enemies are unseen, even though they may be manifest in evil persons, we must remember that the battle is the Lord’s—it means we must have the mind of Christ in us to recognize the difference.

Philippians 2:5-11

Romans 8:37-39

Colossians 1:16

SO—we are to put on our armor–

13 Wherefore

take unto you the whole armour of God,

that ye may be able to withstand

in the evil day,

and having done all,

to stand.

14 Stand therefore,–we are called to stand, not sit down on the job—

Jeremiah 6:16 (don’t be one of those who would not hear!)

Malachi 3:1-3

Joshua 1:5

Acts 26:16

Romans 5:1-4

Romans 14:10

1 Corinthians 16;13*

2 Timothy 2:19

And how are we to stand?  Paul makes it clear that God’s provision is all we need to “withstand in the evil day”, and brothers and sisters, we are there/here! For this armor, I simply want to give you some scriptures to help and encourage you to “stand”!  Paul repeated it, and so shall I!

having your loins girt about with truth,—Jesus’–

John 14:6

Matthew 24:35

John 14:10

John 8:45

John 8:32

and having on the breastplate of righteousness;—Jesus’

**2 Corinthians 5:21**

Romans 3:22

Romans 1:16-17

Romans 5:18

Romans 14:17

1 Corinthians 1:30

15 And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace;–we are to leave footprints of Jesus and HIS salvation, which IS peace with God, everywhere we go—

Romans 1:16-17

Romans 5:1-2

Philippians 4:6-9

Colossians 3:15

Hebrews 13:20-21

16 Above all, taking the shield of faith,

wherewith ye shall be able to quench

all the fiery darts of the wicked.—faith is to be the measure of our walk with Jesus, we are to walk in faith not fear, for faith puts out the fire of those fearful arrows of the enemy—

2 Timothy 1:7

Luke 17:5

1 Thessalonians 3:7

2 Thessalonians 1:4

Hebrews 10:23

1 John 5:4

17 And take the helmet of salvation,–right thinking for the believer is JESUS thinking—

** Philippians 2:5-13**

Romans 12:1-3

Colossians 1:10

1 Thessalonians 2:4

 and the sword of the Spirit,

which is the word of God:–God’s Word, the Holy Scriptures, the Bible, this is our only defensive weapon, and is the lifeline of a believer.  Don’t let Satan rob you of this vital lifeline to God—to know Him, to trust Him, to follow Him and share His Word not our own opinions-

Hebrews 4:12-13

1 Kings 8:26

Isaiah 40:8**

Matthew 4:4

1 Thessalonians 2:13

1 Peter 1:23

2 Timothy 2:15

2 Timothy 3:15-16

And last, but absolutely not least—our armor is to be saturated (oiled if you would) with prayer—our communication with God—the privilege of coming into HIS very presence to speak—but most importantly to HEAR—

18 Praying always

with all prayer

and supplication

in the Spirit,

and watching thereunto

with all perseverance

and supplication

for all saints;”  (Ephesians 6:10-18)–

Hebrews 4:14-16

Colossians 1:3

1 Thessalonians 5:17

Acts 12:5

Romans 1:9

2 Timothy 1:3

So, may we suit up, march forward, praying in all things that we might be found faithful…. And just FYI, I didn’t print the scriptures today as there were so many I wanted to share in this message, and it would have been prohibitive for time and space, so please take the time to look them up and read to see what God has to say!!!  My love and prayers are with each of you.

 

Amen and Amen!!!

Seasonal Or Steadfast??? Bible Ballistics: BBs #720

08 Thursday Apr 2021

Posted by in 'Tis The Season?, Abiding In Jesus, Are You Ready, Faithful is He that has Promised!, Faithfulness, Holy Living, Prayer, Prayer or Panic?, Seasonal or Steadfast?, Service, Spiritual Warfare, Stand Fast!, Trendy Or Truth, Trials, Troubles, Trusting Jesus

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Bible Ballistics: BBs #720  Seasonal Or Steadfast???

 

As we see so much chaos, sickness and uncertainty around us today, I would like to share a word or encouragement and warning at the same time.  It’s so easy to get caught up in the circumstances and forget the surety and certainty of The God whom we serve.  HE is the same always and the rules haven’t changed; and Jesus doesn’t change to accommodate culture or generation.  HE never changes!

“Jesus Christ

the same yesterday,

and to day,

and for ever.”  Hebrews 13:8

Paul encouraged the young ‘preacher boy’ Timothy to stand fast in truth and not waver—we need to heed that same word of truth today.

“I charge thee therefore before God,

and the Lord Jesus Christ,

 who shall judge the quick and the dead

at his appearing and his kingdom;

2 Preach the word;

be instant

in season,

out of season;

reprove,

rebuke,

exhort

with all longsuffering

and doctrine.

3 For the time will come

when they will not endure sound doctrine;

but after their own lusts

shall they heap to themselves teachers,

having itching ears;

4 And they shall turn away their ears

from the truth,

and shall be turned

unto fables.”  2 Timothy 4:1-4

Sounds like today, doesn’t it?  But Paul calls us, as well as Timothy, to stand fast, regardless of the season or times, the responses of other, or the trends of the moment.  We’ve been called to follow Jesus, to take up our cross and not fall for the lies of the devil.  Peter warns us clearly about the constant spiritual danger around us.

“Humble yourselves therefore

under the mighty hand of God,

that he may exalt you

in due time:

7 Casting all your care

upon him;

for he careth for you.

8 Be sober,

be vigilant;

because your adversary the devil,

as a roaring lion,

walketh about,

seeking whom he may devour:

9 Whom resist stedfast

in the faith,

knowing that the same afflictions

are accomplished in your brethren

that are in the world.

10 But the God of all grace,

who hath called us

unto his eternal glory

by Christ Jesus,

after that ye have suffered a while,

make you perfect,

stablish,

strengthen,

settle you.

11 To him be glory

and dominion

for ever and ever. Amen.”  1 Peter 5:6-11

Sometimes we must endure seasons of suffering, trials and challenges, yet it is important that we keep our eyes on Jesus and not on the trials, or the blessings and provisions of deliverance themselves.  King Hezekiah, went to God in earnest prayer requesting healing from what the prophet told him was a fatal illness, and God answered his prayer.  But Hezekiah didn’t use the 15 years that God granted him with wisdom and humility, but rather made poor choices, and left Judah in the hands of an unprepared young king who became one of the worst, if not the worst since Ahab, kings causing more harm, and misleading more people of Judah, than just about any other King.  Don’t be a Hezekiah and blow it after God blesses and delivers; if /when God brings you into a season of opportunity, keep your eyes humbly on Jesus not yourself, or the blessing you received!

“In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death.

And the prophet Isaiah the son of Amoz

came to him, and said unto him,

Thus saith the LORD,

Set thine house in order;

for thou shalt die, and not live.

2 Then he turned his face to the wall,

and prayed unto the LORD…

… And Hezekiah wept sore.

4 And it came to pass, afore Isaiah was gone out

into the middle court,

that the word of the LORD came to him,

saying,

5 Turn again, and tell Hezekiah

the captain of my people,

Thus saith the LORD, the God of David

thy father,

I have heard thy prayer,

I have seen thy tears:

behold, I will heal thee…

…6 And I will add unto thy days fifteen years;

and I will deliver thee and this city

out of the hand of the king of Assyria;

and I will defend this city

for mine own sake,

and for my servant David’s sake.”  2 Kings 20:1-6

Has God answered your prayers?  Have you responded to God’s grace with humble gratitude, or presumption, or even disregard?  We must be continually vigilant to stand fast in the “evil day”, just as Peter called us to above.  I pray that God’s Word will help us to stand fast and be like Jeremiah; being so devoted to God, regardless of the circumstances, that we are compelled to obey and serve HIM faithfully in spite of the circumstances or response!

“…I am in derision daily,

every one mocketh me.

8 For since I spake,

I cried out,

I cried violence and spoil;

because the word of the LORD

was made a reproach unto me,

and a derision, daily.

9 Then I said,

I will not make mention of him,

nor speak any more in his name.

But his word was in mine heart

as a burning fire

shut up in my bones,

and I was weary with forbearing,

and I could not stay.”  Jeremiah 20:7b-9

May we stand with this same assurance knowing that “our God reigns” and that HE WILL accomplish HIS purpose in and through us if we will but heed HIS voice!  I pray God’s blessings and work in your heart today, knowing that HE is working in, on, with and through you and me!

“What shall we then say to these things?

If God be for us,

who can be against us?

32 He that spared not his own Son,

but delivered him up for us all,

how shall he not with him also

freely give us all things?

33 Who shall lay any thing

to the charge of God’s elect?

It is God that justifieth.

34 Who is he that condemneth?

It is Christ that died,

yea rather, that is risen again,

who is even at the right hand of God,

who also maketh intercession

for us.

35 Who shall separate us

from the love of Christ?

shall tribulation,

or distress,

or persecution,

or famine,

or nakedness,

or peril,

or sword?

36 As it is written,

For thy sake

we are killed

all the day long;

we are accounted as sheep

for the slaughter.

37 Nay, in all these things

we are more than conquerors

through him

that loved us.

38 For I am persuaded,

that neither death,

nor life,

nor angels,

nor principalities,

 nor powers,

nor things present,

nor things to come,

39 Nor height,

nor depth,

nor any other creature,

shall be able to separate us

from the love of God,

which is in Christ Jesus

our Lord.”  Romans 8:31-39

We win IN JESUS!!!  May you stand steadfast and not seasonally!  Our Lord’s return is truly imminent, are you ready?  I pray that you are and if you’re not that you will call on HIM today!

Amen and Amen!

Faithful Pray-er Or Panic-er??? Bible Ballistics: Vol. 16 No. 23

28 Sunday Feb 2021

Posted by in All Sufficient God!, Believe IN Jesus, Blessed by God, Choices And Consequences, Choose You This Day!, Confidence or Presumption?, Consider Your ways, Daniel Prayed--Do You?, Daniel's choices, Daniel's Prayer, God's Faithfulness, Influence, Inspiring Others, Integrity, Liars, Lies, Light In The Dark, Prayer or Panic?

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Bible Ballistics: Vol. 16 No. 23 Faithful Pray-er Or Panic-er??

 

As we finish up our look at Daniel and his friends, we look today at chapter 6, and we’ll see quite a contrast in kings and circumstances.  We looked last week at an arrogant king who had no regard for God or the lessons he had the opportunity to learn from; and saw that king meet his doom.  This week we’ll see the conquering king (although there were co-rulers in the empire, we will only consider one king) and even though a wise and discerning king, even the wise and discerning can be subject to ego, vanity and deceit.

“In that night was Belshazzar

the king of the Chaldeans

slain.

31 And Darius the Median

took the kingdom,

being about threescore and two years old.”  Daniel 5:30-31

Darius the Mede has taken control of Babylon after invading the city, as God prophesied through Daniel and the “hand-writing on the wall”!  Have you been paying heed to the “hand-writing” on your wall?  Or will you be taken unaware?  If we will pay attention to God’s voice and hand at work in our life, then we will find ourselves able to practice a faithful prayer life like Daniel.

“It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom

an hundred and twenty princes,

which should be over the whole kingdom;

2 And over these

three presidents;

of whom Daniel was first:

that the princes might give accounts

unto them,

and the king should have no damage.

3 Then this Daniel

was preferred

above the presidents

and princes,

because an excellent spirit

was in him;

and the king thought

to set him over the whole realm.

4 Then

the presidents

and princes

sought to find occasion

against Daniel

concerning the kingdom;

but they could find

none occasion

nor fault;

forasmuch as he was faithful,

neither was there any error

or fault

found in him.”  Daniel 6:1-4

Remember God’s blessing on Daniel and his three friends?

“And the king communed with them;

and among them all

was found none

like Daniel,

Hananiah,

Mishael,

and Azariah:

therefore stood they before the king.

20 And in all matters

of wisdom

and understanding,

that the king enquired of them,

he found them ten times better

than all the magicians

and astrologers

that were in all his realm.” Daniel 1:19-20

Each of these men along with Daniel had “purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself”, and God honored their faithfulness in this hard place, by blessing them with ability and success in all of their endeavors. How does your faithfulness and mine measure up against such integrity?  I hope well, but it doesn’t come without effort and devotion to God and His Word.  God displayed his faithfulness and revealed himself through his faithful servants in a pagan land; and I believe there is a parallel for our consideration today—we are finding ourselves living in a pagan land—a land that is defying the Lord God Almighty; redefining virtually everything that HE has established, for greed, gain and self-promotion.  How will we stand?  For how long?  Daniel has proven himself faithful for some 70 years in Babylon, and even the new Median King Darius sees the integrity and ability in “this Daniel” and promotes him to a place of honor and service; while he is considering an even greater promotion to chief in the land (under the king, of course)!  BUT—not everyone was excited about Daniel’s integrity or his success.  Why?  I think for the same greed, gain and self-promotion that pervades our culture today.  And I think, if you look closely, you’ll find the same tactics used these thousands of years ago, are being used today.  Satan’s tactics never change.  Let’s look?

“Then the presidents and princes

sought to find occasion against Daniel

concerning the kingdom;

but they could find none occasion

nor fault;

forasmuch as he was faithful,

neither was there any error

or fault

found in him.

5 Then said these men,

We shall not find any occasion

against this Daniel,

except we find it

against him

concerning the law of his God.”  Daniel 6:4-5

I find it interesting that even Daniel’s enemies couldn’t find any “occasion against” him in the affairs of state; and just like politicians today, I’m sure they left no stone unturned to find some.  Yet, these men in their eagerness to discredit Daniel, realized that they would have to be cunning and wily to discredit Daniel and could only trip him up with the “law of his God”.  The very thing that brought him into favor with Nebuchadnezzar, would now be used to try and bring him into disfavor with King Darius.  How hard would people have to look to find cause for discrediting us?  For most of us—including me—not very far.  We have all made bad choices, mistakes and just outright failures; but Daniel was a man of total honor, integrity and devotion to his God.  How about you/me?  These enemies went after Daniel in a way that brings me shame, for my faithfulness and consistency is often lacking in regard to my prayer and study of God’s Word.  Let’s see what they come up with.

“Then these presidents and princes

assembled together to the king,

and said thus unto him,

King Darius,

live for ever.

7 All the presidents of the kingdom,

the governors,

and the princes,

the counsellors,

and the captains,

 have consulted together

to establish a royal statute,

and to make a firm decree,

that whosoever shall ask

a petition of any God

or man

for thirty days,

 save of thee,

O king,

he shall be cast

into the den of lions.

8 Now, O king,

establish the decree,

and sign the writing,

that it be not changed,

according to the law

of the Medes and Persians,

which altereth not.

9 Wherefore king Darius

signed the writing

and the decree.”  Daniel 6:6-9

We ought to learn something from these men, a lesson in current affairs; their plan of attack started with a consensus of flattery, lies and deceit—ring any bells?  They told the king that “all” of the “leaders” had agreed to this plan—“all” that is, but Daniel.  But they left that part out!  They included only the information they wanted others to know about, the truth was irrelevant!  Sound familiar?  Then they flattered the king and used his ego to trap Daniel.  Are we so faithful to God that we could be trapped by our faithfulness?   This king fell into the trap of ego and self-importance, and we need to be careful of the trap.  And we also need to understand that the enemy doesn’t play by the same rules that we do!

So, back to Daniel, what does he do?

“Now when Daniel knew

that the writing was signed,

he went into his house;

and his windows being open in his chamber

toward Jerusalem,

he kneeled upon his knees

three times a day,

and prayed,

and gave thanks before his God,

as he did aforetime.

11 Then these men assembled,

and found Daniel praying

and making supplication

before his God.

12 Then they came near,

and spake before the king

concerning the king’s decree;

Hast thou not signed a decree,

that every man that shall ask a petition

of any God or man

within thirty days,

save of thee, O king,

shall be cast into the den of lions?

The king answered and said,

The thing is true,

according to the law

of the Medes and Persians,

which altereth not.

13 Then answered they and said before the king,

That Daniel,

which is of the children of the captivity

of Judah,

regardeth not thee, O king,

nor the decree

that thou hast signed,

but maketh his petition

three times a day.”  Daniel 6:10-13

Here we find Daniel’s enemies gathered—probably at the only “prayer meeting” they’ve ever attended—to catch Daniel being faithful to his God.  And just FYI, when they come to find us faithful to our God, what will they find.  Will we be found continuing to be faithful?  Will we have to scramble to even know how to pray?  Or will we just count it too much trouble and cave to the culture around us?

“Then said Jesus unto his disciples,

If any man will come after me,

let him deny himself,

and take up his cross,

and follow me.

25 For whosoever will save his life

shall lose it:

and whosoever will lose his life

for my sake

shall find it.

26 For what is a man profited,

if he shall gain the whole world,

and lose his own soul?

or what shall a man give

in exchange for his soul?” Matthew 16:24-26

If you’re not following Him today, when do you intend to start?  God already had a plan for Daniel, who, like Job, knew in Whom he trusted.

“Though he slay me,

yet will I trust in him:

but I will maintain mine own ways

before him.”  Job 13:15

“For I know that my redeemer liveth,

and that he shall stand

at the latter day

upon the earth:

26 And though after my skin worms

destroy this body,

yet in my flesh

shall I see God:

27 Whom I shall see

for myself,

and mine eyes shall behold,

and not another;

though my reins be consumed

within me.”  Job 19:25-27

God confirmed Daniel’s faith through this pagan king who had seen faithfulness in Daniel on more than one front.

“Then the king,

when he heard these words,

was sore displeased with himself,

and set his heart on Daniel

to deliver him:

and he laboured till the going down

of the sun

to deliver him.

15 Then these men assembled unto the king,

and said unto the king,

Know, O king,

that the law of the Medes and Persians is,

That no decree nor statute

which the king establisheth

may be changed.

16 Then the king commanded,

and they brought Daniel,

and cast him into the den of lions.

Now the king spake and said unto Daniel,

Thy God

whom thou servest continually,

he will deliver thee.

17 And a stone was brought,

and laid upon the mouth of the den;

and the king sealed it with his own signet,

and with the signet of his lords;

that the purpose might not be changed

concerning Daniel.

18 Then the king went to his palace,

and passed the night fasting:

neither were instruments of musick

brought before him:

and his sleep went from him.”  Daniel 6:14-18

Darius knew by Daniel’s life of faithfulness and integrity that his God would deliver him.  What does our life tell others about our God?  Does our faithfulness cause even our enemies to look to our God?  Or do we look so much like the world that no one can see God in us?

As Peter tells us, our testimony in suffering can make a difference.

“Dearly beloved,

I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims,

abstain from fleshly lusts,

which war against the soul;

12 Having your conversation honest

among the Gentiles:

that, whereas they speak against you

as evildoers,

they may by your good works,

which they shall behold,

glorify God in the day of visitation.

13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance

of man

for the Lord’s sake:

whether it be to the king,

as supreme;

14 Or unto governors,

as unto them that are sent

by him

for the punishment

of evildoers,

and for the praise of them

that do well.

15 For so is the will of God,

that with well doing

ye may put to silence

the ignorance of foolish men:

16 As free,

and not using your liberty

for a cloke of maliciousness,

but as the servants of God.

17 Honour all men.

Love the brotherhood.

Fear God.

Honour the king.”   1 Peter 2:11-17

So, what did Darius find in the morning?

“Then the king arose very early in the morning,

and went in haste unto the den of lions.

20 And when he came to the den,

he cried with a lamentable voice unto Daniel:

and the king spake and said to Daniel,

O Daniel, servant of the living God,

is thy God,

whom thou servest continually,

able to deliver thee

from the lions?  

21 Then said Daniel unto the king,

O king, live for ever.

22 My God hath sent his angel,

and hath shut the lions’ mouths,

that they have not hurt me:

forasmuch as before him

innocency was found in me;

and also before thee, O king,

have I done no hurt.

23 Then was the king exceeding glad for him,

and commanded that they should take Daniel

up out of the den.

So Daniel was taken up out of the den,

and no manner of hurt was found upon him,

because he believed in his God.”    Daniel 6:19-23

Daniel’s eyes were looking up to his GOD, not around at the lions; and his GOD delivered for Daniel’s good and HIS glory!  And, consequently, the destruction of the wicked, while God brought Daniel even greater honor.

“And the king commanded,

and they brought those men

which had accused Daniel,

and they cast them into the den of lions,

them, their children, and their wives;

and the lions

had the mastery of them,

and brake all their bones in pieces

or ever they came at the bottom

of the den.

25 Then king Darius wrote unto all people,

nations, and languages,

that dwell in all the earth;

Peace be multiplied unto you.

26 I make a decree,

That in every dominion of my kingdom

men tremble and fear

before the God of Daniel:

for he is the living God,

and stedfast for ever,

and his kingdom

that which shall not

be destroyed,

and his dominion

shall be even unto the end.

27 He delivereth

and rescueth,

and he worketh signs

and wonders in heaven

and in earth,

who hath delivered Daniel

from the power of the lions.

28 So this Daniel prospered

in the reign of Darius,

and in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.”   Daniel 6:24-28

Who or what is YOUR GOD?  Are your eyes on the prize—Jesus—or the lions—or the liars?

“But thanks be to God,

which giveth us the victory

through our Lord Jesus Christ.

58 Therefore, my beloved brethren,

be ye stedfast,

unmoveable,

always abounding

in the work of the Lord,

forasmuch as ye know

that your labour

is not in vain in the Lord.”   1 Corinthians 15:57-58

May God bless and grow us in in HIS Word and HIS ways.  Keep looking up not around!  God hears and answers “prayers” not “panic”!

Amen and Amen!!!