Faith to Face Lions

Daniel had faith to face lions and stood firm in devotion and obedience—showing us how daily trust in God prepares us for every challenge.

“Then the king gave orders, and Daniel was brought in and thrown into the lions’ den. The king said to Daniel, ‘Your God whom you continually serve will Himself rescue you.’”—Daniel 6:16 NASB

Daniel knew the risks of standing firm in his faith. He knew how the system worked, how laws were written and enforced, who had power, and how it was kept or lost.

After being named one of three commissioners responsible to manage the kingdom, he “began distinguishing himself,” and King Darius “intended to appoint him over the entire kingdom” (v. 3).

However, others became resentful and “began trying to find a ground of accusation” against him (v. 4). They concluded that their only hope was to attack him “regarding the law of his God” (v. 5). They tricked Darius into signing a law forbidding anyone to offer a “prayer to any god or person” except for Darius himself for 30 days, on penalty of being cast into the lions’ den (v. 7).

Refusing to compromise, Daniel continued to pray to God, so Darius was forced to throw him into the lions’ den. However, Daniel not only survived, but “no injury whatever was found on him” (v. 23). Why? Because he trusted in God. This trust was the fruit of a life spent continually serving the Lord, obeying, seeking, knowing Him personally and intimately. When challenges came, Daniel was ready.

The time to prepare for life’s challenges is before you face them. Fill your mind with God’s Word. Spend time with Him every day. Develop an intimate relationship with the Lord. In Him, you can be ready to face the lions.

Reflection Question: How is your faith preparing you for life’s challenges?