Read: Daniel 2:17-24
Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. (v. 19)
Daniel’s immediate response to Nebuchadnezzar’s deadly threat was “prudence and discretion” (v. 14). Unlike his peers, Daniel did not panic. That being said, Daniel still had to do something. After all, if Nebuchadnezzar did not get results, heads would roll. But once again, we see Daniel’s faith in action.
Daniel’s response provides an excellent model we can follow any time we face adversity. First, Daniel resisted the temptation to start with problem-solving. Instead, he started with prayer. Second, Daniel resisted the instinct to “go it alone.” Instead, he asked a group of God-fearing friends to pray with him and for him. Third, Daniel and his friends presented God with their specific problem, requested a specific solution, and asked God for mercy.
God’s intervention is always mercy. God never owes us his saving action. Paradoxically, we can only expect a response from God when we acknowledge we don’t deserve his help. God’s compassionate response demands further response from the faithful. When God delivered, Daniel and his friends declared God’s praises, testified to God’s glory, and shared God’s goodness with others.
Though we don’t deserve it, we too can trust God’s mercy (Luke 6:36). In light of God’s mercy, approach him with confidence. Ask for God’s intervention. When you experience it, testify to God’s glory, and share God’s goodness.
As you pray, trust in and celebrate God’s mercy.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon is the Minister of Worship and Leadership at Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
