Reading Plan:
Daniel 6


Our Thoughts:
The funny thing about reading the stories in the Bible is that we are given all the information and details upfront. We know who is innocent. We know who is being deceitful. We know who has pure motives, and we know who has evil intentions. We can trace the hand of the enemy as well as the hand of God. Therefore, it’s easy for us to criticize people and think we would respond differently, when in fact, having all the details and clarity in the moment is not reality. In life, we have to figure out our own way through situations that seem unfair and uncertain. We have to discern truth from lies. We have to pray that God gives us clarity about what is happening and how we should respond. When things seem unfair, we often want to be our own voice of defense. However, sometimes before God shuts the mouth of the lion in our lives, we must first shut our own mouth. We see this perfectly displayed in the life of Daniel.

Chapter 6 tells us that Daniel was a man who had exceptional qualities. He was trustworthy, and there was no corruption found in him. He was faithful to God, and no amount of pressure would change that. Then, the enemy steps in to stir up trouble by using people who were close to Daniel. The amount of pain we experience when the enemy uses those closest to us to hurt us can be unbearable, but we can learn a lot from Daniel’s reaction to his situation. Through all of the malice and manipulation, Daniel never says a word. In verse 10, we find him unwavering in his faithful service to God in spite of the cost. Daniel did not do more to prove himself; he did not do less for fear of the consequences. He simply remained faithful to what God had called him to do, and he kept his mouth shut. There is a lot to be said about someone who is innocent in the midst of persecution, yet keeps his mouth closed and lets God defend him. This shows Daniel's tremendous faith in the power of God alone to rescue him.

Psalm 27: 21-22 tells us that when our hearts are hurt and our spirit becomes bitter, we react like a foolish animal. It’s so hard not to react and speak up when we have been criticized or hurt, but what good does it really do? Will we be able to change the hearts and minds of those who hurt us? Only God can change someone’s heart, so if we really believe He is all-powerful, why not let Him do what He does best and defend us. Your only job is to stay focused on what He has placed before you as He shuts the mouth of your lions today. It may be at the risk of the negative thoughts and opinions of others, but that is a small price to pay for God to receive the glory He deserves.

More Questions:
1. How has keeping your mouth closed in the past proven to be the best response for you?
2. What can you do differently today to show God that you trust him as your defender?


Prayer:
Lord, You alone are my shield and my defender. You alone know how to rescue me from the lions in my life. I trust You. I choose You, and I will wait for your perfect timing to act. Help me to never open my mouth when it’s not wise to do so. Thank you, Lord, for the perfect direction and guidance you provide to me daily.


Author: Angie Gates