Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things....

Psalm 107

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! 

*2* Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble 

*3* and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south. 

*4* Some wandered in desert wastes, finding no way to a city to dwell in; 

*5* hungry and thirsty, their soul fainted within them. 

*6* Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 

*7* He led them by a straight way till they reached a city to dwell in. 

*8* Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

*9* For he satisfies the longing soul, and the hungry soul he fills with good things. 

*10* Some sat in darkness and in the shadow of death, prisoners in affliction and in irons, 

*11* for they had rebelled against the words of God, and spurned the counsel of the Most High. 

*12* So he bowed their hearts down with hard labour; they fell down, with none to help. 

*13* Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 

*14* He brought them out of darkness and the shadow of death, and burst their bonds apart. 

*15* Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

*16* For he shatters the doors of bronze and cuts in two the bars of iron. 

*17* Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction; 

*18* they loathed any kind of food, and they drew near to the gates of death. 

*19* Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 

*20* He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction. 

*21* Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

*22* And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy! 

*23* Some went down to the sea in ships, doing business on the great waters; 

*24* they saw the deeds of the Lord, his wondrous works in the deep. 

*25* For he commanded and raised the stormy wind, which lifted up the waves of the sea. 

*26* They mounted up to heaven; they went down to the depths; their courage melted away in their evil plight; 

*27* they reeled and staggered like drunken men and were at their wits’ end. 

*28* Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 

*29* He made the storm be still, and the waves of the sea were hushed. 

*30* Then they were glad that the waters were quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven. 

*31* Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 

*32* Let them extol him in the congregation of the people, and praise him in the assembly of the elders. 

*33* He turns rivers into a desert, springs of water into thirsty ground, 

*34* a fruitful land into a salty waste, because of the evil of its inhabitants. 

*35* He turns a desert into pools of water, a parched land into springs of water. 

*36* And there he lets the hungry dwell, and they establish a city to live in; 

*37* they sow fields and plant vineyards and get a fruitful yield. 

*38* By his blessing they multiply greatly, and he does not let their livestock diminish. 

*39* When they are diminished and brought low through oppression, evil, and sorrow, 

*40* he pours contempt on princes and makes them wander in trackless wastes; 

*41* but he raises up the needy out of affliction and makes their families like flocks. 

*42* The upright see it and are glad, and all wickedness shuts its mouth. 

*43* Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord. 

This psalm covers many analogies for the different ways in which we can experience life. There are snippets of stories encompassing; confusion, wandering, poverty, restriction, rebellion, dismissing God’s way, imprisonment, seeking riches and climbing the career ladder. I am sure each of us can relate to at least one of these situations. They all indicate times we can find ourselves in through life, often when we are not fully following God or times then we are caught up in the trials and sufferings of life. Yet in ALL of these situations, there is an opportunity to cry out to God;

‘Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress.’

No situation is too difficult for God to rescue you from. You have never gone too far, gone too wrong, or got too bad for God to intervene. He is just waiting for an invitation to do so. Every time in the variety of situations listed, the people get overwhelmed, fed up and desperate. Ever felt like that? When the people of this psalm realised they were so troubled and distressed that they could do nothing about it, they cried out to God. They were desperate, scared and incapable of changing their circumstances, so they realised they needed supernatural help.

God is greater than any situation you are in. If you do call upon Him, He will answer. Like He does for the people here. He can meet you in the storm and sustain you in the desert, He can pierce the darkness and obliterate sin. If you are fed up with life the way it is right now, why not try crying out to God? He can deliver you from your distress - He can show you the straight path out of the mess, He can calm the storm,  bring healing and rescue. He can release those who feel imprisoned, He can provide nourishment, bring peace and strength. God can make a difference to whatever situation you find yourself in. So, why not ask Him to? 

Then you can take comfort that in each circumstance listed in this scripture, God answers. He provides, guides, heals, rescues and releases those who have ‘cried to the Lord in their trouble’. You may not realise it yet, but God is working out His plan for you and is coming to deliver you from your distress. It is comforting to know that in the many trials of life, that we can call on God. It doesn’t matter if you never have, or if you always have, God still listens and acts. He doesn’t just lend a sympathetic ear, but He provides a rescue plan, a solution to whatever the circumstance is. He is just waiting for you to call on Him to come. 

As well as the repetition of verse 6, after every event, once the people turn to God, this verse is also repeated, ‘Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man!’

The work and intervention of God deserves recognition. When God answers the call of distress, don’t forget to acknowledge it and be grateful to Him. For He has performed ‘wondrous works’ in your life, and He will continue to do so when you invite Him in. Being grateful for God’s great, steadfast, enduring love is something we can all do, but do you? Do you call to remembrance the times when God has transformed your life, situations, health, career, your troubled mind? 

Verses 22 onwards demonstrate some ways in which we can glorify God, and we can use these examples to thank God for what He has done in our lives. Don’t forget to thank God for these things. We have a lot to thank God for, but we do not always remember to do it. I think that is why the psalmist repeats this verse. 

I know God has healed me, He has brought peace to my heart and mind, He has provided for me a family, a home, finances when we have had lack, He has given me a husband and children though the path was not easy, He has broken through situations, provided jobs, restored the lives of those around us,  led me, disciplined me, He has given me hope, prepared me, comforted me, given me strength, energy, He has spoken to me, listened to me and kept me going. 

What has He done for you? 

Surely, He deserves our gratitude and our trust the next time a tough situation comes by….

‘Whoever is wise, let him attend to these things; let them consider the steadfast love of the Lord.'

Christmas, a time to worship

I was considering which psalm to write about this week as we approach Christmas Day, when I came across psalm 96. A psalm full of praise and wonder at the splendour of God. This seems appropriate to ponder on at this time of year. We can get caught up in; busy-ness, buying presents, attending events, seeing friends and family, food, putting up the decorations. Why not take a break from all that and have a read of this psalm. It may just refresh you and excite you for what Christmas is really all about;

Worship in the Splendour of Holiness

# 96

Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! 

*2* Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. 

*3* Declare his glory among the nations, his marvellous works among all the peoples! 

*4* For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; he is to be feared above all gods. 

*5* For all the gods of the peoples are worthless idols, but the Lord made the heavens. 

*6* Splendour and majesty are before him; strength and beauty are in his sanctuary. 

*7* Ascribe to the Lord, O families of the peoples, 

ascribe to the Lord glory and strength! 

*8* Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; 

bring an offering, and come into his courts! 

*9* Worship the Lord in the splendour of holiness; 

tremble before him, all the earth! 

*10* Say among the nations, “The Lord reigns! 

Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved; 

he will judge the peoples with equity.” 

*11* Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all that fills it; 

*12* let the field exult, and everything in it! Then shall all the trees of the forest sing for joy 

*13* before the Lord, for he comes, for he comes to judge the earth. He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness. 

I love how this psalm just dives straight in. It shows us the exuberant outpouring of praise of this writer. Does it not inspire you to worship too? 

At this time of year as we consider God becoming man to save us and demonstrate love to us, does that stir up the same excitement, joy and gratitude in you? Us, who live thousands of years after this psalm was written, and thousands of years after the brith of Jesus - We truly DO know His salvation day by day! We have seen and read and heard about the brith of the Son of God, probably in many ways, so we know and experience first-hand God's salvation plan worked out! Isn't that exciting?! And isn't that worth praising God for? 

We can get so distracted by many other things as we approach Christmas and New Year, but don't forget to take time to also get caught up in the wonder, the awe, and beauty of what God achieved by sending his son, Jesus. 

This God who sent His son to us inspires worship. When we take time to consider who He really is, as the psalmist has done, we too can, and should overflow with praise. When we begin to see the marvellous character of God, how can we not glorify Him? In these few verses we are reminded of God’s; greatness, power, creativity, strength, beauty, awesomeness, glory, authority, majesty, power, judgement, holiness, righteousness, splendour, fairness, salvation and faithfulness. 

Surely that is worth singing about as the psalmist suggests?!

The whole Earth has reason to glorify God - Every single part of it! Our duty is to give it. Not to keep the joy inside as a private, personal matter, but to share the stories and the greatness of God with others. We are called to give, sing, declare, tell and worship. God’s magnificence should be expressed joyfully in our lives. We have much to appreciate, and this Christmas seems like is a good time to show and share it.

So, I wish you all a Merry Christmas as you celebrate who God is. Let us all remember to, 'Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name', for then it will truly be a Merry Christmas for us all. 

‘For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised; ‘

Honouring God through mistakes

David created this song, psalm 30, as a response to events in his life and he begins and ends with worship. The intro shows us that it was used at the dedication of the temple, so clearly this psalm was publicly sung. As you read it, consider how brave that was;

Psalm 30

Joy Comes with the Morning

A Psalm of David. A song at the dedication of the temple. 

*1* I will extol you, O Lord, for you have drawn me up and have not let my foes rejoice over me. 

*2* O Lord my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me. 

*3* O Lord, you have brought up my soul from Sheol; you restored me to life from among those who go down to the pit. 

*4* Sing praises to the Lord, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name. 

*5* For his anger is but for a moment, and his favour is for a lifetime. 

Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning. 

*6* As for me, I said in my prosperity, “I shall never be moved.” 

*7* By your favour, O Lord, you made my mountain stand strong; you hid your face; I was dismayed. 

*8* To you, O Lord, I cry, and to the Lord I plead for mercy: 

*9* “What profit is there in my death, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? Will it tell of your faithfulness? 

*10*Hear, O Lord, and be merciful to me! O Lord, be my helper!” 

*11*You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; you have loosed my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness, 

*12*that my glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to you forever! 

Within this psalm King David admits he was prideful, shows he repented, how he prayed, and demonstrates how he worships - That’s a lot of personal revelation for a public event! How brave was that of David?! King David openly acknowledging his failures and weaknesses to his subjects. He was not ashamed of allowing the nation to know where he has failed, how he recognised it, repented and was restored. He did not cover it up as many leaders nowadays would do, but instead uses his troubles and errors to give God glory. 

David is not embarrassed of his own wrongdoing, weakness or failure because he knows that through it it shows God’s endurance, love and restoration. He bravely allowed this psalm to be sung at a ceremony knowing that it told of his failure to all the people gathered there. This probably took more courage than the many battles David had to face! Yet he was willing to do it and be thought of less in order for God to be thought of more. He honoured God through his mistakes, he did not hide them, pretend it didn't happen, but David shared about them in such a way that worshipped God.

As the people heard this song and considered its content, I wonder how the people would have responded to their king. If it were me, I would be amazed at his honesty and vulnerability and respect him for it. It would certainly help to recognise that leaders, after all, are human and not perfect - they too need God to step in, intervene, forgive and restore them. This leader, this successful king, one who had reason to be proud, was humbled by God and not afraid to admit it to his kingdom. Not only that but he celebrated through his downfall because God has once again been faithful and forgiven and restored David. This must have stirred the faith of the people and helped them to consider who this God is that David talks about. The humility of David here shows the greatness of God.

What great encouragement!

We do not need to pretend we are perfect or hide our mistakes, but we can worship God for His forgiveness, love, power, restoration, healing, favour, mercy and joy as David did. You do not need to be a king to do that, don't us everyday people also mess up at times as well? We too can decide whether we use each circumstance in life to give God honour. We make mistakes, sometimes we get it right, sometimes we get it wrong. What do you do when you know you've gone wrong? Do you cry out to God for His mercy? God has the power, the capability and favour to change things for you, do you willingly, openly and repentantly seek it? No matter what mess you get yourself into, you have the opportunity to cry out and plead for mercy to the Lord just as David did. When we wholeheartedly accept our errors and want to turn away from them God can turn from anger to favour and turn our weeping to joy. Is that something that you want for your life? Is that something you have experienced in your own life?

Then, what do you do when God shows up and changes things for you? 

David shared this account of his error as a psalm because he wanted the nation to know that they too can approach the mighty, loving, creator God with their issues too. That is why he told this personal testimony. He wanted others to see that the God he serves is just, kind, patient, forgiving and powerful and deserves the praise of us all. Therefore do not be ashamed or scared to share your stories too. Like David, you too could inspire faith and praise to those who hear them. Are you willing to worship God through your mistakes like David did? You can show God's great mercy, forgiveness and love because He still restores, heals and forgives you. It may not be through a public song, but could be to those you work with, friends, neighbours, family. David inspired a nation to follow God under his leadership - who could you inspire to follow God by sharing about how He has really worked in your life?

What is special about Christmas?

 As it approaches Christmas, we all have the opportunity to consider what this time of year is all about. Many of us, whether we have ever been to church or not, or consider ourselves a christian or not, have probably heard something of the nativity, or the Christmas story. The odd and complex story of a baby, some wise men, shepherds, animals, angels and something about a star.  Yet, what was all of that really about?

It was a pretty grand experience if you think about it. How many babies are greeted on Earth in the same way? 

This baby must have been special, all babies are, but this baby, born over 2,000 years ago and still talked about today - surely that is significant, but why? 

Babies are weak, helpless, vulnerable, dependent and messy. So why celebrate above the norm about this child, born in unusual, chaotic circumstances, under a bright star, welcomed by shepherds, angels and wise men? Well, those things for a start show that this child is different! How many baby’s do you know that were born with such a lot going on? Not only this, but this baby was expected. He was awaited for centuries. Before this baby was born, Isaiah, a well-renowned prophet wrote over 700 years before this baby was born, ‘Behold the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel’. 

This was the baby that we celebrate being born that night in a hidden corner of Bethlehem amongst the mess and chaos. Over hundreds of years other prophets have foretold the birth of this baby, and they all match up to point to this baby, this child. 

We can read the account of this birth in Luke 2:1-14;

In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. *2*This was the first registration when Quirinius was governor of Syria. *3*And all went to be registered, each to his own town. *4*And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, *5*to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child. *6*And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. *7*And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn. 

*8*And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. *9*And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with great fear. *10*And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. *11*For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. *12*And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” *13*And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, 

*14* “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!” 

This is the brith of the expected child, the Immanuel. Immanuel means God with us, and what is is significant and important about the birth of this baby is that he is the son of God. God was incarnated - put on flesh - became human to become Immanuel - God with us, God dwelling with us. As John in his gospel puts it - 'the Word became flesh and lived among us’. 

This baby born in an unknown place in the midst of busy town was not an ordinary baby. He was also God. That is what makes this child so special. God; almighty, powerful, creator, dependable, majestic, gigantic God became a weak, vulnerable, messy, adorable, small, helpless baby. He swapped his divinity and strength as the limitless son of God to become dependent and vulnerable in limited human form. 

This is why christians celebrate Christmas! It is about the incarnation - God putting on flesh, becoming human in all it’s limitations. To be Immanuel - God being with us and dwelling with us. It is not just that God became human - He did not come to us as a fully formed and functioning human being, but he came as an incapable, vulnerable, dependent baby. The sin of God gave up all the luxury, riches, power and responsibility to become a helpless, lowly, dependent baby not even in control of his own bodily functions. The almighty creator God put himself in the hands of his created ones - he truly gave up all his majesty to be birthed in those conditions.  

Why would God do that? 

Why would the God of the universe, creator of all things, all-knowing, all-powerful, choose to give up all his deity, power and influence to become a dependent, messy baby? 

He did it so that;

- He could identify with you and I. He became human so that he knew the limiting factors of being so. He had to; learn, develop, grow, navigate relationships and puberty as well as experience emotions, triumph, temptations and trauma just like the rest of us. 

- As Jesus identified with us, he he also demonstrated how we too could live a God-honouring life. As he was fully God and fully man, Jesus could show how to live really giving God the glory. He is a great role model through the way he lived, spoke, taught, acted as well as how he suffered and died. 

- Jesus died, after being cruelly tortured and killed to be our salvation. This is why when he was born he was referred to as a ‘saviour’. Jesus life was intended from the beginning to save us. He died for every wrong you and I have ever committed, he paid the cost of the guilt and shame and separation this brings between us and God - Jesus could be the only one to bridge the gap because he is God and man, and so he obediently did it.

- Ultimately, Jesus did all of this to express God’s love for us. He could only do it properly by becoming a man - how would we relate or understand otherwise? Jesus gave up all of his divine power, knowledge and capabilities to become a limited, frail, vulnerable baby in order to show you and I how much he loves us. 

That is the reality of the incarnation, or what Jesus being Immanuel is and what Christmas is all about. The God of the universe limited himself to the life of a baby to rescue you, restore you and remain with you all your days. Is it any wonder that christians get excited at this time of year?! It is a chance to celebrate and be grateful for the reality of who God is and ti celebrate his love for us all.

Psalm 49

To the choirmaster. A Psalm of the Sons of Korah. 

*1* Hear this, all peoples! Give ear, all inhabitants of the world, 
*2* both low and high, rich and poor together! 
*3* My mouth shall speak wisdom; he meditation of my heart shall be understanding. 
*4* I will incline my ear to a proverb; I will solve my riddle to the music of the lyre. 
*5* Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of those who cheat me surrounds me, 
*6* those who trust in their wealth and boast of the abundance of their riches? 
*7* Truly no man can ransom another, or give to God the price of his life, 
*8* for the ransom of their life is costly and can never suffice, 
*9* that he should live on forever and never see the pit. 
*10*For he sees that even the wise die; the fool and the stupid alike must perish and leave their wealth to others. 
*11*Their graves are their homes forever, their dwelling places to all generations, though they called lands by their own names. 
*12*Man in his pomp will not remain; he is like the beasts that perish. 
*13*This is the path of those who have foolish confidence; yet after them people approve of their boasts. /Selah/ 
*14*Like sheep they are appointed for Sheol; death shall be their shepherd, and the upright shall rule over them in the morning. Their form shall be consumed in Sheol, with no place to dwell. 
*15*But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me. /Selah/ 
*16*Be not afraid when a man becomes rich, when the glory of his house increases. 
*17*For when he dies he will carry nothing away; his glory will not go down after him. 
*18*For though, while he lives, he counts himself blessed —and though you get praise when you do well for yourself— 
*19*his soul will go to the generation of his fathers, who will never again see light. 
*20*Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish. 

Who is this message for? 

‘*1* Hear this, all peoples! Give ear, all inhabitants of the world, 

*2* both low and high, rich and poor together!’

Everyone! All people can learn and appreciate what the sons of Korah have learned, all people can benefit from their understanding and observations - are you going to as we read this psalm?

‘*3* My mouth shall speak wisdom; the meditation of my heart shall be understanding. 

*4* I will incline my ear to a proverb; ‘

V3-4 The writers of this psalm, the sons of Korah, are confident in what they are bringing. They have experienced life, and have observed and learnt enough to become wise about what they are sharing with us.  I like the fact that this psalm is written by ‘the sons of Korah’. This implies that it is a group effort, a combined understanding. They must have reflected and considered together the composition. The result is the combined wisdom of a group of men of God. They have become men of understanding anf wisdom because they listen to one another and are still willing to learn as they declare ‘I will incline my ear…’. They are practicing what they preach, willing to learn, obey and understand more. Are you willing to take onboard their knowledge?

Here is the crux of the matter these sons of Korah have identified and want to speak about in this psalm ;

‘*5* Why should I fear in times of trouble, when the iniquity of those who cheat me surrounds me, 

*6* those who trust in their wealth and boast of the abundance of their riches? ‘

These men have realised that rich people can be scary. It gives people who have wealth a power that they would not usually have, and others are afraid of it. Those that are sinful and dishonest are also scary, but what good does running scared do? If people who are cheats, rich or wrongdoers come against us, why does that rock us? Can you not see what they are trusting in - money?! what good will that do them long-term?

‘*7* Truly no man can ransom another, or give to God the price of his life, 

*8* for the ransom of their life is costly and can never suffice, 

*9* that he should live on forever and never see the pit. ‘

The reality is, that no other human being can own your life, no matter what schemes or tricks they try to use to make it seem like it. No man's wealth can own you or your soul. It is your life, and God is in ultimate command and in control. The length of your days is determined by Him, no-one else - no matter how much or little money you have. You cannot pay a thing to extend or shorten your days. In the same vane, you cannot buy your salvation, or that of anyone else either, ‘the ransom of their life is costly’. This is not in terms of money, but a far greater cost. We know that it was immensely costly to God as he sacrificed His only son Jesus, so that we all can have the ransom for our souls paid. Only the death of the perfect son of God was enough to cover the debt of our sin, and it is paid. Through Jesus is the only way that we can escape ‘the pit’. Have you accepted the price paid for your life? For your soul? 

*10* For he sees that even the wise die; the fool and the stupid alike must perish and leave their wealth to others. 

*11* Their graves are their homes forever, their dwelling places to all generations, though they called lands by their own names. 

*12* Man in his pomp will not remain; he is like the beasts that perish. 

If you take a look around and observe the community/world you live in, you will notice that the wise and the foolish both die. The kind and the horrid, the rich and the poor - all have the same destination and that is death. They take nothing with them, all the things that were important in their life are now insignificant. the things they owned cease to be theirs no matter the importance, wealth, or renown of the individual when they were alive. It does not matter what stuff you had in Earthly life once you are dead. The reality is - just like the animals, we too die and are forgotten. 

*13* This is the path of those who have foolish confidence; yet after them people approve of their boasts. /Selah/ 

*14* Like sheep they are appointed for Sheol; death shall be their shepherd, and the upright shall rule over them in the morning. Their form shall be consumed in Sheol, with no place to dwell. 

*15* But God will ransom my soul from the power of Sheol, for he will receive me. /Selah/ 

The foolish people do not listen, they go their own way and do not consider that death will one day come to them, or consider how that should impact their life. Instead they go, unprepared for eternity into the grave. 

This is not the same for everyone, “God will ransom my soul’- Some people can have confidence as their life on Earth draws to an end that God will save them. Those that have lived in such a way to be acceptable to God through Jesus; when their time on Earth ends, they know God has a plan for them. Those who endeavour to live a life of wisdom; following God, not money, stuff or others they can have confidence that God will receive them. Where do you think your eternal destination will be? Are you living to receive God’s ransom and reception?

*16* Be not afraid when a man becomes rich, when the glory of his house increases. 

*17* For when he dies he will carry nothing away; his glory will not go down after him. 

*18* For though, while he lives, he counts himself blessed —and though you get praise when you do well for yourself— 

*19* his soul will go to the generation of his fathers, who will never again see light. 

*20* Man in his pomp yet without understanding is like the beasts that perish. 

Another reminder that we need not be afraid of one another - of those who have much (or those who have little). When others do well for themselves, do not worry about it, but remember that all earthly things are temporal whether that be money, possessions or property - none of it is owned when the person’s life ends. The reality is, people will admire and commend those who have nice things (v18), but even that praise is short-lived. What is long-lasting is death. What will happen to the rich and poor, the wise and foolish and all those in between is that all will die. The praise of people will no longer be heard on that day, the honours and blessings of Earth will have disappeared - what will remain? 

What are you living for; th temporal comfort on Earth with people's praise? or are you living life focused on receiving the ransom and reception of God? 

Are you heading for your allotted place?

 The last verse in the book of Daniel reads thus;

*13*But go your way till the end. And you shall rest and shall stand in your allotted place at the end of the days.” Daniel 12:13.

After all of the experiences Daniel has had throughout his life, both miraculous and mortifying, he is encouraged to, ‘go your way til the end’. What a beautifully simple instruction. God is telling Daniel that he just needs to keep doing what he has been doing. God has confidence in the way Daniel lives his life, there is nothing more that he needs to do so God exhorts him to keep it up. Daniel had many challenges and triumphs throughout his life, and he remained steadfast in his trust in God. Daniel sought God and listened to Him, and learned to care about what God cares about. So the greatest instruction that God could give Daniel at this stage of his life is to keep going in that way, with the confidence that he has a place reserved for him in eternity. Daniel is on the right path and almost there, he has an, ‘allotted place’, a secure position assigned to him because of the faithful and faith-filled life he led, he just needs to keep going.

Wouldn’t you like a word from God like that? 

I would. The simple assurance that the way you are going is right and the confidence of your eternal place. What relief, satisfaction and hope that must have brought Daniel. Towards the end of his Earthly days, he is reminded of eternal security and encouraged in the long road of life that he has been on. Daniel is assured that he will be able to ‘rest and shall stand’. Meaning that he will have relief from struggle, peace of heart, and the right to be there. When we accept Jesus as our saviour and live our lives with a God-first mentality, we too earn the right to rest and stand in our allotted places when our time on Earth is done. 

Are you living to earn that eternal reward? 

This instruction for Daniel shows us the generosity of God. God not only provides us the salvation we need - forgiveness from all our wrongs through Jesus - but He also gives us a place of honour in eternity when we live focussed on Him. God delivers us from the sin which causes separation from Him, so that we can walk life and the life after with God  Yet, like the generous father that He is. God is not satisfied with just that. God did not stop at offering us all salvation and restoration, but He also secures an eternal place for those that believe in Him and live for Him. Not only can we be free from condemnation, but we can also have relationship with God, and be given an, ' allotted place' like Daniel was. 

I think this verse is an apt way to end the book of Daniel. The genuine faith of Daniel has lasted through many trials, roles, responsibilities, persecution and revelations, and he is pretty old now. The faithfulness and boldness of Daniel has a promised reward. Daniel did not get the reward or the promise of it at the start as a young teenage exile, but at the end of an eventful, faith-filled life. Daniel had to keep going through his life doing his best to honour God in the midst of many trials, and now he receives a wonderful assurance from God. Daniel has not much further to go - the end is in sight - he is heading in the right direction, so he just needs to continue so that he gains his 'allotted place at the end of the days'. 

One day, we too will face the end of our Earthly lives. What will be the assurance God gives you then? Will you will be given rest and an eternal, appointed position because of the life you have chosen to live?

*13*But go your way till the end. And you shall rest and shall stand in your allotted place at the end of the days.” 

God responds to prayer

In Chapter 9, Daniel records a prayer that he made to God regarding the prophecy from Jeremiah about the length of the exile of the Jews. After reading the prophetic word he realises that, in his understanding, this time frame is almost complete, and so he responds in prayer and fasting. Through his prayer Daniel repents for the nation, and declares God’s faithfulness. He acknowledges that man does not keep his word, but God does. 

As Daniel is praying, God responds by sending an angel named Gabriel to him to explain and comfort him. This is the greeting Gabriel gives;

“O Daniel, I have now come out to give you insight and understanding. *23*At the beginning of your pleas for mercy a word went out, and I have come to tell it to you, for you are greatly loved. Therefore consider the word and understand the vision. 

Daniel 9:22–23.

Gabriel came, on purpose to meet Daniel. He did not delay, but came straight away as God sent him. God responds to our prayers. Daniel's prayer was; heartfelt, confused and yearning for God's will to be done. Daniel was praying beyond himself, praying into scripture and seeking God for the fulfilment of His words. So, for clarification for Daniel, God sends an angel, Gabriel. God listened and responded to Daniel’s ‘pleas’. He heard Daniel, and wanted to invite Daniel into a greater understanding of the situation and of God's plans, so he sent Gabriel. This shows me that God does not want us to be blind about what is happening in our lives, communities, nations, or even in Scripture. God desires us to seek Him about it as Daniel did, and as we do that He will give insight and understanding. 

We all have times when we don't know or understand what is going on. Times when the struggle is real, when we cannot see what God is doing (is He doing anything?), the thing is though, at those times, what is your response? Do you respond like Daniel does? When you are confused, upset and annoyed by what is happening, do you approach God about it? Intentionally seeking His purpose and will through prayer and fasting? Or do you have a good grumble along with others or retreat into internal despair? 

Daniel models the best response - he recognises the weakness and sin of man, and the dependable, righteous, just character of God, and he asks God about what He is doing. Daniel reminds Him of His word, and waits for an answer. Do you do that? Are you brave enough to approach God like that? Tell Him what is wrong, what you are struggling with, admit what you or others have done wrong, recognise who God is and ask Him what is happening and how His words are being fulfilled? 

It is ok to talk to God in this manner - we see different characters in the Bible praying in a similar way - David in the Psalms, Moses leading Israel - just 2 examples from the top of my head. These people ‘get real’ with God. They let Him know how they are REALLY feeling, remind Him of His words and ask what He is doing about it. God doesn’t mind if we speak to Him like that. I wonder if, in fact, He likes it? The raw honesty, heartache, frustration and confusion pouring out onto His ears as He listens as our good father. This kind of outpouring to God builds relationship with Him. It is honest, hopeful and reliant on God. Reminding ourselves of who God really is as we acknowledge the difficulties of life. Ever been so consumed and concerned about a situation that you have approached God in prayer and fasting like Daniel? Bringing your heartfelt emotions, your acknowledgement of sin, your understanding and your questions before God -ever done that?

When you do approach God like this, you should know that not only does God listen, but He also responds. He responds to repentance and the search for understanding and revelation. It may not be in the way you expect, or the answer you desire, but God replies. 

When you pray, do you also listen or watch out for God's response? Do you wait for God to speak to you and give you insight? 

Emotional and Physical health

As we read chapters 7 and 8, we see the insight that Daniel is given into activities that will take place on the Earth - the setting up and tearing down of kings and kingdoms and we are told that Daniel was physically and emotionally effected by what he experienced.

This man of God, Daniel, who sought to honour and obey God at every opportunity, who prayed and fasted, searched the scriptures and heard from God - this man was sometimes overwhelmed and worried! Many of us probably question if we would go through what he did, this amazing man of faith. yet he still had emotions he found hard to handle. We can see this in these two verses;

As for me, Daniel, my thoughts greatly alarmed me, and my colour changed, but I kept the matter in my heart.”

Daniel 7:28.

'I, Daniel, was overcome and lay sick for some days. Then I rose and went about the king’s business, but I was appalled by the vision and did not understand it.'

Daniel 8:27.

I do not know about you, but this gives me great hope and encouragement! 

Like Daniel, I too wish to follow God, be obedient and seek to know God better, but I too feel sick, lose sleep, worry and feel overwhelmed and confused at times. Don't you? 

These verses show me that it is ok to not be ok at times. It is ok to admit how you are really feeling - to yourself and others. Daniel was not afraid to admit it - he even documented it and thousands of years later we are reading it! 

Daniel processed his emotions in different ways at different times, we see from 7:28 that Daniel did keep some things ‘in his heart’. He wasn’t quite sure what God was showing him, but he did write it down and take time to process it. Daniel needed to accept and acknowledge his emotional and physical reaction to what was going on - we need to do the same. It means taking time to reflect and consider our responses to what is happening in life and what God is showing us. Daniel kept the matter to himself, but he still dealt with it by thinking about it and writing it down. Some other ways to do this may be turning the TV off for a while to reflect, use commuting time to think through the events of the day and how you feel about it, ask yourself how you are before you ask anyone else. Personal reflection helps us to be in tune with ourselves and aids us in processing the emotions we do not like feeling and figuring out why we are having them, we can then work out what we need to do about it. 

In the second of these verses Daniel seems to have been so overcome and unwell that he needed time off. Daniel did not deny how he felt, or try to keep on going, he realised that his emotions and body were effected by what was occurring in his life, he needed some rest and restoration time so he took it.. It is good to have a break, a change, a rest. Do not make excuses about it - it is healthy to acknowledge your emotional responses. When life is too much, when you are appalled, overwhelmed or shocked by what is happening, taking time to acknowledge and accept your emotional responses is a good thing to do. It benefitted Daniel, he had some time off then he was able to re-focus and return to work. It does not mean the problems were all resolved or that he was happy again, it just shows that he was able to reframe, reflect and begin to restore.

In order for Daniel to have been able to have break like he did in 8:27, he must have told someone about it - he worked for the king, so he couldn’t just disappear for a few days - he must have told someone that he was not ok and could not work. That is important too. When you are not emotionally and physically well, you can share your burdens with others. They will probably not be able to fix it or even help you feel better, but if you trust faith-filled family and friends with how you are doing, they can love, support and pray with you. We know that Daniel had trusted faith-filled friends in his life. They all relied on each other as they all faced significant trials. Daniel did not need to go through this alone, and nor do you. 

What do you when you experience things that cause you to feel; sick, overcome, alarmed or appalled?

If you are going through a time in life that is causing you distress, what are you doing about your emotional and physical health? 

You may need some personal reflection time, some time off or to reveal your heart with friends of faith. We cannot handle all of life’s trials ourselves, and it is no surprise that we feel overcome at times, the question is, what do you do about it, and where do you see God in it? 

Difficult life events are not a demonstration of your lack of faith. Daniel certainly was not a man who lacked faith! Having an emotional or physical response to something simply shows that you are human. We often cannot change what is going on around us, but we can accept how we are responding to it and trust God in it as Daniel did.

Are you a saint that will remain standing?

 As we come to chapter 7 of Daniel, we encounter the visions and prophecies that Daniel has received over time. The first dream recorded, occurred during the time of Belshazzar whom we met chapter 5. So these chapters do not continue the same chronological order that has been evident for the first 6 chapters. It seems that this book is comprised of two parts - a historical summary (chapters 1-6) and a record of some of the things that God has shown Daniel. It seems more like a journal as Daniel has recorded what he has noticed, felt, seen and heard from God. 

The first vision that Daniel recounts in this chapter concerns 4 beasts representing 4 terrifying kingdoms. Daniel is rightly disturbed by these images and what they represent. The culminating beast/kingdom is the one most focussed on as it is the most terrifying. Daniel asks someone in the vision about what all of it means, and in verses 23–27, the final beast is interpreted;

‘There shall be a fourth kingdom on earth, 

which shall be different from all the kingdoms, and it shall devour the whole earth, and trample it down, and break it to pieces.*24*As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings shall arise, and another shall arise after them; he shall be different from the former ones, 

and shall put down three kings.*25*He shall speak words against the Most High, and shall wear out the saints of the Most High, and shall think to change the times and the law; and they shall be given into his hand 

for a time, times, and half a time.*26*But the court shall sit in judgment, and his dominion shall be taken away, to be consumed and destroyed to the end.*27*And the kingdom and the dominion and the greatness of the kingdoms under the whole heaven shall be given to the people of the saints of the Most High; his kingdom shall be an everlasting kingdom, and all dominions shall serve and obey him.’ 

This sounds incredible and terrifying at the same time doesn’t it? Terrifying yet tinged with hope. 

As we read the first few verses we see that there is the assurance that there will be one kingdom in the Earth. Unified not by goodness and grace, but by might and violence (v23-25). This kingdom shall; devour, trample and break down all around the world. It is clear that this is not a kingdom where God reigns, in fact the scripture tells us that one of the world leaders, ‘shall speak words against the Most High(God)’. One king that overthrows 3 previous kings shall speak out against God and begin persecuting God’s people. He, ‘Shall wear out the saints of the Most High’, and, ‘think to change the times and the law’.  This one leader will purposefully make life difficult for those that believe in and worship the Most High God. Like the image of the beast, this one king ravenously seeks to devour those who are part of God’s kingdom. This one person is intent on diminishing the kingdom of God, and he is allowed to. God’s people are, ‘given into his hand’. Suffering and persecution is allowed. We see it now in part in different nations across the world, but one day it will effect the whole world, every nation. None of us knows what that will look like, yet this is one of the promises of scripture. 

Does this fit into your understanding of who God is? That God, the Almighty, holy, just, loving, all powerful, Most High will allow His people to suffer?

These verses clearly show us that the people of God are given over to; trampling, devouring and breaking. God permits his servants to suffer, this beastly kingdom that seeks to ‘wear out the saints’, I know that i certainly feel worn out by life at times! This section of scripture show that this is what all of the 'saints' - followers of God - will feel like. The promise is that this time will come and the followers of God will be particularly picked on, but the promise is also that this period will cease. It will last for a predetermined amount of time - there will be hardship and significant suffering - but it will end. Do you have the staying power to make it through a time like that? 

Many won’t. Some will deny their faith, turn away and do whatever is needed to survive and get by on this Earth, will you? Or will you remain ruthlessly devoted to the Most High, the King of kings, the one who, in His kindness has warned you and I that this will come despite the difficulties?

God has warned us that this season of suffering is coming so we can be prepared. So that when it does, we are not surprised, we have the truth of God’s word to stand on, we can know what we are facing, we can see it for what it is. There is great comfort in these verses as they clearly show that God is still there and in control. Even when the worst happens. God is still present, still all-powerful, still in control and He still loves us. 

There is hope for those that do continue to follow God, for those that do survive and withstand the pressure. God promises that this earthly, destructive, ‘dominion shall be taken away, to be consumed and destroyed’. The comfort here is that the only one that will be defeated and destroyed is the terrifying beast, the enemy of the saints. The saints are worn out, but the persecuting ones will be destroyed. How great is that?!

The reality is though, that being emotionally and physically worn out can spiritually wear us out too. Battling every day is tiring and ‘saints’ can lose their way, give up and give in. It is hard work, but keep your eyes on the prize -  one day it will end and the kingdom will be given over to the saints - Will you be one of them at the end of the trial? Eventhough you know that will be worn out, given over and punished for what you believe and how you live your life?

In the end, the saints triumph, but not until years of suffering, restriction and persecution come. Who will hold on and bear to be worn out by the laws, kings and kingdoms of the Earth? The saints, God’s people, can be worn out, but not obliterated. God does not give permission for that. 

Are you a saint that will remain standing?

Are you a disciple or part of the crowd?

I have been struck by the above question as I have been reading and pondering on the lives of Daniel, Hananiah, Azariah and Mishael in the book of Daniel. 

From the moment we meet these guys, as teenage boys, exiles in a foreign land, they have demonstrated dedication in being disciples of God. Despite the fact that they had experienced; the loss of their home, culture, lifestyle, family, and traditions, they kept following God. Even when the rest of those exiled with them, and the community surrounding them were doing otherwise. 

These four lads were not the only Jewish boys captured and brought to Babylon to be trained and educated in Babylonian life, there were others. There were other exiles, also in a similar life stage, with equable background, upbringing and lifestyle, yet these four young men continued to stand for the faith they had despite the fact that everything else in their life had change. These four recognised that even if everything else changed, God didn’t. 

They expressed this in the everyday decisions they had to make. In making their own decisions despite what the prevailing culture taught and demonstrated, in spite of what their peers were doing, or what was expected of them. We see this from the very start when they are faced with the array of food offered to them - the very same food that the king ate, and the same wine the king drank. I am sure most of the crowd were kind of excited by this prospect - the opportunity to see and taste foods they never dreamed of, even food that would not be allowed as part of their jewish heritage. As they were no longer in their own country though, did the rules still apply? even more poignant - did they want to follow them anyway as they were away from their religious leaders and their parents? These teenager boys could make their own decisions and exercise the freedom that this exile-life allowed even in the simple matters of what to eat, and who wouldn’t want to eat like a king?!

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. They did not want to eat like kings. Well, they probably did, but they chose not to. Why? Because the Law told them that certain foods were unclean and not for eating, and in this Babylonian culture - how could you tell what was what? Which meats are acceptable and which aren’t? So these four dedicated disciples made a radical decision. They chose to avoid meat altogether, they requested to eat only vegetables and drink only water. How many teenagers do you know that would choose that kind of diet?

They did it because they wanted to honour God first. Above their own desires, the expectations and peer pressure. It could not have been easy for them. Can you imagine the taunting? The name calling, the tempting that must have gone on amongst the crowd of lads eating what they liked? 

The crowd were comfortable and content, eating as they liked, amongst their peers doing as expected.  Daniel and his friends were the odd ones out, living sacrificially, surrounded by temptation and teasing. 

Yet, is the aim of life to be comfortable? Is that the aim of yours? The crowd lead us to be satisfied with ourselves and accepting of one another. There’s comradeship, support and guidance. The same is true for the few disciples as well though. The question really is though - where are the crowd or the disciples leading us? 

Disciples lead us to God, the crowd lead us away. 

Jesus tells us the following in Matthew 7:13-14, ‘the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. *14*For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.’

If you are following the crowd, it may seem comfortable and satisfying, but do you realise that they are the many going through the wide gate to destruction? The few, the disciples, following God are searching for that narrow gate because they know that way they will find life. It is not easy, but isn’t it worth it?

Daniel, Hananiah, Azariah and Mishael sought the narrow way. They did not go along with the crowd, but searched for the narrow way - we can see that throughout the accounts in the book Daniel about how they pressed into God and away from the crowd. They stuck together in their community of believers and followers of God, even through fire, death threats and persecution. The disciples of Jesus did the same.

The 12 disciples of Jesus gave up; businesses, family, lifestyle, riches, security and comfort in order to follow him. They gave up everything in their life to get close to Jesus. They were invited to be up close and personal to God himself and they chose to do it rather than be part of the ever increasing crowd. As a result, they saw; Jesus walk in water, loaves and fishes feeding thousands, demons fleeing and many healings. They saw these things first-hand because they placed themselves in close proximity to Jesus by the everyday decisions they made. The crowd heard of these stories, but they weren’t there when Jesus calmed the storm or walked on water. They didn’t hear first-hand the conversations. The disciples did. Just like in Daniel, the few got to see God in action. 

Where do you want to be? 

Are you content and comfortable in the crowd? Or are you ready and yearning to be a disciple?

It is in the everyday decisions that we can show where we are. In; how you speak to others, who you spend time with, how you manage the school/work resources, how you deal with finances, if you just go along with everyone else just because that is what everyone else is doing. Everyday you get to show where you; in the crowd or amongst the disciples.

Whichever option you choose, there’s a cost. 

Being part of the crowd may be self-satisfying, comfortable and easier, but it leads to estrangement from God and destruction

Being a disciple will mean hardship, being in the minority, estrangement from peers, but closeness to God and life. 

So, what are you going to choose today? Are you part of the crowd or a disciple?

what is your reputation?

 The satraps and officials got their way. There was no loophole in the king’s edict, no matter how much the king fretted and tried to find one, so Daniel was punished for breaking it by being thrown into the den of lions;

‘Then, at break of day, the king arose and went in haste to the den of lions. *20*As he came near to the den where Daniel was, he cried out in a tone of anguish. The king declared to Daniel, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?” *21*Then Daniel said to the king, “O king, live forever! *22*My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.” *23*Then the king was exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God. .’

Daniel 6:19–23.

As soon as he can, after an anguished, sleep-deprived night, the king rushes to the den to find out Daniel’s fate. He addresses Daniel, ‘O Daniel, servant of the living God’. Still gripped by fear, the king doesn't forget Daniel's reputation. It is quite an unusual greeting, certainly not how I have ever heard someone addressed. Yet, what a powerful greeting, what a way to be known!

Daniel’s name has become synonymous with being a servant of God and everyone knows him that way; the satraps, officials, king and the community know that Daniel is a servant of the living God, he is not ashamed of it, he has not hidden it, in fact Daniel has intentionally made his trust in God known through the way he lives his life. 

What are you known for? What is your reputation amongst the people?

Daniel has purposefully been open about the God he serves. He has not kept his private life, his work life or his faith separate. In fact he ensures that everything stems from the faith he has in the Living God. His God is his foundation. Daniel; is obedient, prays multiple times a day, trusts God through the many trials, and he recognises his service to this world is through serving God. Daniel’s faith is not a byproduct of his life or an add on like attending a group, but his identity flows from being a ‘servant of the living God’. Daniel naturally, obviously and openly lives for God. He is patient and perseveres when troubles come, not denying or hiding his faith, but boldly walking in it despite persecution. It is not easy for him, in fact his faith could have cost his life several times.  

Are you living a life of faith as openly and boldly?

This is a challenge for us - how do we build a reputation like Daniel? How do we live so boldly for God? If we look at Daniel, we see that he was open and honest. He never hid his beliefs and values, instead he demonstrated and spoke about them. He made the effort to make God known through his life wherever he was, whoever he was with and in whatever he was doing. He did it when things were going well, and he did it when they weren't. Daniel lived consciously and conscientiously for God. He sought a close relationship with his God through prayer and obedience. This is where Daniel’s reputation came from - a trusting relationship with God. Through this he was secure in God’s goodness and faithfulness. As a result, Daniel realised that he did not need to fight for salvation, his reputation or deliverance. He trusted God. There have been times when Daniel could have made his own plans to save himself, instead, every time, he prayed to ‘the living God’. He did not run away or fight back. As a result he sometimes got answers, revelation and miraculous deliverance, and sometimes, he had to face the terrifying reality in the face so that he and others could see God’s miraculous salvation. Every time Daniel trusts in God. Not himself, or a clever plan, but he seeks God and is rewarded with deliverance and a restored reputation. 

If you want to have a reputation like Daniel’s, what are you doing about it? 

Are you inviting God to make a difference to your character so that you can demonstrate unwavering faith in Him in your lifestyle, your work place and in your community? Daniel's reputation was built upon the foundation of a relationship with God. what is yours built on?

Being dedicated to God in your work life

Daniel’s fellow high officials and satraps are so jealous of his recognition, good service and impermeable character that they seek his downfall. They persuade the king to make a ruling that they know Daniel will not keep because of his dedication to God. They plot and plan together to not punish Daniel, harm him or discredit him - they want him dead. 

The officials and satraps cleverly come up with an edict that could rid them of Daniel and cause the king to feel esteemed at the same time. Thus ensuring that thier plot to be rid of Daniel can be fulfilled. The plan is that king Darius make an ordinance that all prayers and petitions be directed to himself for 30 days, no other person or god. The king likes the idea - he gets the glory and renown, so it sounds good to him. He doesn’t seem to question it or consider the ramifications other than it would make him look and feel good. 

Once the new rule has been put in place we find that despite the rule not to, Daniel has continued to faithfully honour and pray to his God alone. He kept his routine; praying 3 times a day, unhidden, carrying on just as boldly, or even more so, to seek God. The fellow officials and satraps expect Daniel would do so, so they know when, where and how to catch him out. It is no surprise. It seems that it is with glee that they inform king Darius of Daniel’s disobedience, knowing that the king’s favourite must now be dumped in the den of lions;

'14*Then the king, when he heard these words, was much distressed and set his mind to deliver Daniel. And he laboured till the sun went down to rescue him. *15*Then these men came by agreement to the king and said to the king, “Know, O king, that it is a law of the Medes and Persians that no injunction or ordinance that the king establishes can be changed.” 

*16*Then the king commanded, and Daniel was brought and cast into the den of lions. The king declared to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!” *17*And a stone was brought and laid on the mouth of the den, and the king sealed it with his own signet and with the signet of his lords, that nothing might be changed concerning Daniel. *18*Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; no diversions were brought to him, and sleep fled from him.'

Daniel 6:14–18.

The punishment is quickly brought about, and we can see the concern, regret, the disturbance of the king. He worried, he planned, he tried to rescue Daniel, but he could not figure out how to do it. So he reluctantly carries out the edict that has been written and without much faith says to Daniel, “May your God, whom you serve continually, deliver you!”. Darius does not know that this is possible. A man, chucked amongst vicious beasts does not stand much chance, and he, the king, has decreed it. Unwittingly signing the death warrant of his most loyal, faithful overseer and he can do nothing about it. So he frets, loses sleep, can’t eat and expects the worse. Knowing that Darius showed this level of grief shows that he and Daniel clearly had a good, personal relationship, a mutual trust and respect for one another. Darius clearly sees Daniel as more than a worker or a leader. Through working together, Daniel has become a trusted adviser and friend. So much so, that although the king knows that the rules must be obeyed, he wishes they didn’t so that he could save Daniel’s life.

What are you working relationships like?

Daniel had a mixed experience. King Darius, his boss loved him - he saw Daniel's hard work, success, patience, insight and trustworthiness. Yet, at the same time, Daniel's co-workers were jealous and wanted rid of him. The question is, what are you working for? We all work to receive money, but what is your intent at work? Is it just to earn money? or is it to make God known? 

Through Daniel's work ethic, his honesty,  care for others, his problem solving attitude and diligence, he made it known that he was following God in what he did. He openly talked about his faith and displayed it by his actions. When at work, we have a real opportunity to display Jesus not just in what we say, but what we do and how we do it. 

Do people see you working conscientiously, with care, respectfully? 

Do you honour the rules, even the ones that no-one else does? 

Do you bring God with you to work -do you make it clear where your strength and abilities come from like Daniel did? 

Daniel relied on God throughout. People knew who he was serving - he lived and was prepared to be ridiculed, pushed out and die for it. Some people loved him, some people hated him, he still did what he knew God wanted him to do - Do people see the same dedication in you? 

Are you jealous?

 *4*Then the high officials and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him. *5*Then these men said, “We shall not find any ground for complaint against this Daniel unless we find it in connection with the law of his God.” 

Daniel 6:4–5.

The high officials and satraps, Daniel’s; fellow workers, leaders, peers, sought to find fault in him, why? They had no grounds to dislike him or seek to punish him, yet they desired to. They saw his success, and no matter how hard they looked, they could only find that in all things he dealt with integrity - how annoying! They had no reason to complain about him, yet their hatred/jealousy of him did not abate. The only thing they could probably say is that maybe he made them look bad, or not as good as they thought they were because of his integrity. Ultimately, this desire to catch Daniel out, to report him for misconduct or error is not because they were concerned or worried about his work ethic, but because they were all jealous. Not of his character or righteousness, but of his commendation and position.

I wonder what could have happened if they had approached Daniel and sought advice or assistance to improve their reputation and ability in their responsible positions. Or if they had been as diligent with inspecting their own work and resolving problems rather than trying to find problems with Daniel’s. These officials were all men of high regard, authority and power, intelligent and capable. They had similar roles and responsibilities to Daniel, and yet they are consumed with jealousy. They see that eventhough he is the same in position, he is different. Daniel is regarded differently by the king himself, so instead of looking at what they can improve or seeking Daniel's aid and advice, they become consumed with jealousy. They have lost sight of what they already have and are disgruntled because someone else does the job better. Rather than seeking self-improvement they seek the destruction of the one better than them.

Have you ever seen that in your life? Can you be like that? 

Be honest with yourself; do you harbour annoyance, anger, jealousy when others have what you do not? Do you find yourself complaining about others because they are successful? Or are you jealous when others have different roles and responsibilities than you? 

You may not outwardly express the jealousy, or seeks another's downfall in practice, but internalising it is just as unhealthy. 

Jealousy can sneak in over time, and it can be easy to justify our feelings of resentment and dislike by seeking reasons to talk and think badly of others, finding solace in the fact that others feel the same. This is what Daniel's fellow leaders did - they realised they all disliked Daniel and got together to plot his downfall. Yet, finding that others may harbour the same response to someone doesn’t make it right. It doesn’t mean that you are right to feel that way. We can take warning from this story in Daniel about how it is. Jealousy is ugly, so watch yourself, watch your heart, and your responses to others. If you find any jealousy there, talk to God about it, and ask Him to help you. Jealousy is really admiration taken the wrong way, so ask God to help you to restore relationships and help you to see the good in the person, maybe even seek their help and advice - what is it in them that you actually want? Ask God to grow YOU rather than desiring the downfall of another.

I am sure Daniel must have been aware of the other officials and satraps scrutinising his work, and probably their disgruntled feelings towards him, but he does not deal unkindly with them (that would have been grounds for complaint), and he continues to work diligently. He did not change his work style when he realised his fellow officials and satraps were looking into his business. He did not work slower or less in order to make himself seem less good. He simply did what he knew was right and did what he could. You should do the same. 

Daniel knew that this job, as important and significant as it was, was just a job. His aim and what he lived for was to work in such a way as to honour the God he served in whatever capacity he had opportunity to. As followers of God, we to0 should work as if we are working for Jesus, not for the approval of others. So, work diligently, faithfully, with integrity and dedication to whatever task you are given. Do not worry about the others around you - you are responsible for you. You are responsible for the way you behave and your own responses to other people. If you are a follower of Jesus - you are working for a higher purpose, for a greater, more powerful boss than any other. Do those around you see it?

an excellent spirit

As we consider Daniel’s life, we can see that he had times when he was valued and revered, and times when he was forgotten and overlooked. We first met Daniel when he was a young teenage exile thrust into leadership in the Babylonian empire. Over time he was promoted and trusted with solving king Nebuchadnezzar’s problems, Daniel also had responsibility in the kingdom. Then, years later, during Belshazzar’s reign, Daniel is unknown. Daniel went from a position of prominence to oblivion. The influence and responsibility he once had disappeared, and the Belshazzar does not even know who Daniel is. He is only informed about Daniel in his last hours on earth, yet Daniel is still introduced to him as someone of excellent character and capability, and proves his God-given ability to continue to solve dilemma, he has not changed. Next comes Darius, (the conqueror of Babylon), and we find out in the following verses his impression of Daniel; 

It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom 120 satraps, to be throughout the whole kingdom; *2*and over them three high officials, of whom Daniel was one, to whom these satraps should give account, so that the king might suffer no loss. *3*Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.

Daniel 6:1–6:3.

Darius again discovers the 'excellent spirit' that is in Daniel that Belshazzar was ignorant of, and Darius commends and elevates Daniel's position once again. From prominence in his youth, to a substantial time of oblivion from public servitude, to again a period of recognition and responsibility when he is approaching 90 years old! 

Yet, Daniel’s character and faith had not changed. He is a man of God from chapter 1 throughout his life, even during the overlooked years he remains faithful to God, as when he is introduced to Belshazzar, it is as a man with ‘an excellent spirit, knowledge and understanding’, so clearly his reputation and character had not changed, just the position that he was given by men had. 

We see from this account of Daniel’s life that wherever Daniel was, and whatever job role he had, he was still a man who had ‘an excellent spirit’. Is that how you are known wherever you are, whatever you are doing?

How we behave, how we regard God should not change even when situations in life do. God does not change, but man's opinion and esteem of us can, just like it did with Daniel. Some people will appreciate the God-given abilities we have, others will reject and hate it.

Daniel stood out because he was a follower of God. No matter where he was or what he was doing, he was faithful and committed to serving God from his youth through to old age. This made him different in how he handled himself and other people. It was something outstanding and undefinable to the rest of the world, so some accepted it and others rejected it. Nebuchadnezzar did not understand it, but he made use of the wisdom and insight of Daniel, Belshazzar rejected and ignored it, and Darius put to work the ‘excellent spirit’ within him. It is the same for you. People will either accept you for who you are, or they will reject you. If you are living a God-fueled life, do not be surprised by it, but remain faithful. Jesus tells us we will be rejected by some on account of our faith (Luke 10:16 ‘the one who rejects you rejects me’). It is not really us that is accepted or rejected, but the one whom we accept as the Living God. Daniel experienced it, and if you are serious about your faith you will experience it too. When we live our lives for God, it is acceptable to some and repugnant to others. It is the Jesus in you that they are accepting or rejecting. So do not despair if you are being overlooked or rejected. Take comfort in the fact that this happens for the glory of God, because you are displaying Jesus to people and not everyone can handle it, and take inspiration from the life of Daniel also lived unnoticed and unappreciated - but he did not fail to continue following God, to continue to be the man of ‘excellent spirit’ that he was. 

The truth is that when we live for God, we cease to live for mankind, or even for ourselves. When we truly have ‘an excellent spirit’, it does not matter which opportunities come or go, we will still have our character, and our God. We take that wherever we are and whatever we do, are you a person of excellent spirit?

Prepare to speak and hear the truth

  After Daniel clearly spoke about who God is, and showed that the Most High is the one who gives knowledge and insight, he then reveals what the king wants to know, he reads and then explains the writing on the wall;

‘the God in whose hand is your breath, and whose are all your ways, you have not honoured.

*24*“Then from his presence the hand was sent, and this writing was inscribed. *25*And this is the writing that was inscribed: Mene, Mene, Tekel, and Parsin. *26*This is the interpretation of the matter: Mene, God has numbered the days of your kingdom and brought it to an end; *27*Tekel, you have been weighed in the balances and found wanting; *28*Peres, your kingdom is divided and given to the Medes and Persians.” 

*29*Then Belshazzar gave the command, and Daniel was clothed with purple, a chain of gold was put around his neck, and a proclamation was made about him, that he should be the third ruler in the kingdom. 

*30*That very night Belshazzar the Chaldean king was killed. *31* And Darius the Mede received the kingdom, being about sixty-two years old.’

Daniel 5:23–31.

Daniel, having preceded the revelation with a revelation of God's presence in his life and that of the king's family, tells Belshazzar that he has limited time left, that God has found him lacking, and that the kingdom he should have been caring for is going to be torn apart. Do you think that this is really what the king wanted to know?! These things are probably the worst news a king could get; He is going to die soon, his kingdom too is going to suffer and God is not pleased with him. However, Belshazzar does not get into a rage, he does not order for Daniel to be punished and killed, instead he gives Daniel the honours that he promised! Even though he has just been told that everything he has worked for is going to be ripped apart, and cease to be. So Belshazzar must have seen the validity in what Daniel shared, otherwise why would he have treated him so kindly? Maybe even the horrendous truth is better than the terrible unknown. 

The truth may be hard to hear and to tell, but it will do us good if we take it onboard. 

When someone comes to you for advice, or when you need it - do you seek the truth or placation and comfort from wherever you can get it? Or do you pray and ask God for revelation, for truth? 

If you really want solutions to the difficulties you are facing, if you really want to help your friends in times of trouble - then surely you owe ourselves and them the truth. No matter how painful and hard it is. Jesus tells us in the New Testament, 'If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free'(John 8:31-31). What a marvellous promise! The truth does not bind or terrify, but it sets us all free - no matter how hard it may be to hear or tell, it is necessary for freedom. Maybe that is why Daniel was able to be honoured - because he was a man of God and a man of truth, telling a desperate king the honest truth, and Belshazzar could rest from his worry, because now he knew. I know that i prefer to know rather than be surrounded by unanswered questions and confusion, there's something about truth that puts us at ease. It gives us freedom.

When sharing the truth though, it is not acceptable to be harsh - either with ourselves or others. Daniel is great at framing the truth he needs to reveal. He prepares the king by explaining God’s interest, forbearance and existence before he interprets what the king says he wants to know. It is like he prepares a prologue for what he is about to reveal. This ensures his hearers that Daniel is relying on God for insight, and gives some background to God's previous work that may yet remain unseen. He gives an intro to the truth. 

Like Daniel, when we have a message from God to share with someone we should be clear to the person where our information is coming from. Prepare them to hear the truth that it is from God, tell them that you have prayed and that you believe God has spoken. Demonstrate the history of your understanding, and their experience of God (even if they do not see it, like Belshazzar), show that God has always cared about them and wants to speak into their lives now to help them. I think that most of us should probably spend more time considering how we reveal God's truth to people, rather than just going straight into it. Give consideration to your words, prepare a prologue through prayer. Sometimes the truth is hard to hear and share. Daniel understood that and prepared his audience to hear the cold, hard truth by displaying who has given the message, and how God has been active already, so that the hearers have time to contemplate the God whom this message is coming from before they receive the message. If you think about it, it is how medical practitioners deal with patients - they remind them of the tests, results and then the diagnosis and implications. It is not always the best news to hear, but there's a relief in the truth because it sets us free.

It doesn’t matter if you have something from God that will be encouraging, or an admonition like Daniel, but making it clear where your insight is coming from is key - otherwise however will they know that there is a God who cares for them? The truth can set people free, are you ready to share it with others? Next time God reveals something to you for someone, take time to construct your thoughts and frame the truth so that people can see the God of love, hope and freedom behind the truth.

Have you carefully considered the existence of God?

After the wise men of the kingdom had failed to read the mysterious writing and interpret it, Daniel is remembered. Therefore he is called upon for assistance, as a last resort just as in Nebuchadnezzar’s time. Both times the kings prefer to seek ‘wise’ worldly counsel than seek the truth of God. In this case, Belshazzar doesn’t even seem to know who Daniel is. When Daniel enters, the king tells him what he has heard of him, and again makes the promise of gifts and authority, this is Daniel’s response:

17*Then Daniel answered and said before the king, “Let your gifts be for yourself, and give your rewards to another. Nevertheless, I will read the writing to the king and make known to him the interpretation. *18*O king, the Most High God gave Nebuchadnezzar your father kingship and greatness and glory and majesty. *19*And because of the greatness that he gave him, all peoples, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. Whom he would, he killed, and whom he would, he kept alive; whom he would, he raised up, and whom he would, he humbled. *20*But when his heart was lifted up and his spirit was hardened so that he dealt proudly, he was brought down from his kingly throne, and his glory was taken from him. *21*He was driven from among the children of mankind, and his mind was made like that of a beast, and his dwelling was with the wild donkeys. He was fed grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will. *22*And you his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, though you knew all this, *23*but you have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. And the vessels of his house have been brought in before you, and you and your lords, your wives, and your concubines have drunk wine from them. And you have praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which do not see or hear or know, but the God in whose hand is your breath, and whose are all your ways, you have not honoured. 

Daniel 5:17–23.

Daniel has certainly not become a frail old frightened man has he?! Even though he is in his 80s, living in this besieged city and has just been dragged in front of the king and his partying audience, Daniel still tells it like it is! He still tells the truth as uncomfortable and unwelcome as it may be - he stands with integrity and faith. He makes it clear from his introductory speech where his knowledge and understanding come from, and does not hold back his disappointment in Belshazzar’s lack of faith. In fact he holds Belshazzar to account for what he has and hasn’t done both in the present and the past. He reminds Belshazzar of the  well-documented story of his ancestor, Nebuchadnezzar, and points out that Belshazzar has not considered the reality of the Most High God even when, in his very own family, he knows how it is told that God has shown himself, yet Belshazzar has remained purposefully ignorant and disrespectful. 

Daniel points this out before he gets into why he has been brought there - not what Belshazzar was expecting - he just wanted to understand the writing, not be told off! Yet Daniel gives this background to demonstrate that God has been working all the way through, and Belshazzar has missed it. 

Before Daniel makes any attempt to relieve the terror the king is under, he shows why this has happened - because God has seen Belshazzar's wilful ignorance and disobedience, and wants his attention. Belshazzar is challenged for not seeing the truth, for not remembering or exploring the events that occurred with Nebuchadnezzar. He has had opportunity to see who God is through his family, through the stories Nebuchadnezzar has told, even through the very items that he defiled at the celebration - all these things point to who God is, but he chose to ignore and disregard them. Now is the time he is being called to account for it.

It is clear from this account that God expects us not to only learn from our own mistakes, but also the experiences, mistakes and successes of others. God has shown you things in others lives, maybe even in your own family history, so that you can learn from them and avoid the pain and disruption that disobedience and ignorance offers. Belshazzar didn’t, and that is brought against him, he and his kingdom suffer for it. 

It is God’s expectation that we learn from others; that we listen to their God stories and that we make an effort to discover whether God is real. Have you done that? Do you take people's faith stories and carefully consider them? do you allow them to build faith or even build curiosity? or do you just disregard them as Belshazzar did? 

One day you too will be called to account for your own life; for whether you have accepted, rejected or disregarded the existence of God, I wonder how you will fare...