Pray and Praise

Scripture reading: Daniel 2

Daniel and his friends were being hunted, “When the death warrant was issued, Daniel and his companions were included. They were also marked for execution.” (Daniel 2:12).

What was Daniel’s response to the death warrant?

He spoke to the official with wisdom and tact (Daniel 2:14); he went to the king and asked for time to interpret the dream (Daniel 2:16). From what happened next we can assume that the king granted him time.

Let’s take a moment to meditate on what Daniel did next …. 

Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. (Daniel 2:17-18).

Daniel knew there was only one who could reveal the mystery of what King Nebuchadnezzar had dreamt and its meaning - the Maker of heaven and earth (Psalm 146:6), our Omniscient God (1 John 3:20). Only He is all knowing.

For us, just like Daniel, when we are seeking guidance in our lives, there is only one place we can truly find it - the God of heaven. James tells us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5). God, the Holy Spirit dwelling within us, He is our helper (John 14:26). We just need to ask Him.

Daniel knew that he would need support in this task. So, he asked his friends to join him in prayer, asking God to reveal King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and its meaning.

For us, just like Daniel, when we are facing ‘execution’ in our lives we need the prayer support of others. The Apostle Peter experienced the benefits of people praying for him when he was in prison awaiting trial. The church was praying for him and the Lord sent an angel to rescue him. Don’t be too proud to ask others to pray for you. We are in a spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:10-18). Even the Apostle Paul asked people to pray for him (Ephesians 6:19-20). And let's not forget that we have Jesus, the King of Kings, interceding for us (Hebrews 7:23-25) too.

In response to Daniel seeking God for the answer, God revealed the mystery to him. Daniel praised God (Daniel 2:20-23) and then revealed the mystery to King Nebuchadnezzar. The execution was called off and the king placed Daniel in a high position.

For us, just like Daniel, we are to praise God for who He is and what He does in us and for us, and those we are praying for. 

• Wendy Robinson

Reflection: What guidance has God given you recently? Who has he provided to pray for you? Give thanks and praise to God for his mercy, wisdom, power and provision.

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