Daniel 6:20
And when he came to the den, he cryed with a lamentable voice vnto Daniel, and the king spake and said to Daniel: O Daniel, seruant of the liuing God, Is thy God whom thou seruest continually, able to deliuer thee from the Lyons? Daniel 6:20 (KJV)
Context: The book of Daniel recounts the story of Daniel, a faithful servant of God, who was taken captive by the Babylonians. In this chapter Daniel’s enemies conspired against him because of his unwavering commitment to his faith and his integrity. They manipulated King Darius into issuing a decree that anyone who prayed to any god or man other than the king would be cast into a den of lions. Despite the decree, Daniel continued to pray to God three times a day, as he had always done.
Daniel’s Situation: The king, who respected Daniel, went to the den and cried out to him with a lamentable voice, asking whether his God could deliver him, and then declared, “Thy God, whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee.” The king’s question and statement reflect his concern for Daniel’s safety and his confidence that Daniel’s God would protect him.
Faith and Trust in God: Throughout his life, Daniel had demonstrated a consistent commitment to serving the living God. He remained faithful even in the face of a decree that threatened his life. Daniel’s unwavering trust in God is evident as he willingly accepted the consequences of his faithfulness, fully believing that God had the power to deliver him.
God’s Deliverance: While the verse does not provide an immediate response from Daniel, the subsequent verses reveal that God indeed delivered him from the lions’ den. God sent an angel who shut the mouths of the lions, protecting Daniel throughout the night. The next morning, when King Darius anxiously went to the den, he found Daniel unharmed, and the king praised Daniel’s God for His faithfulness and deliverance.
Application: This example teaches several valuable lessons. First, it demonstrates the importance of unwavering faith and trust in God, even in the face of adversity or potential harm. Daniel’s commitment to prayer and his refusal to compromise his faith serve as an inspiration to believers today. Second, it reminds us that God is capable of delivering His faithful servants from any difficult situation. Finally, this verse encourages us to rely on God and seek His intervention in times of trouble, knowing that He hears our cries and has the power to deliver us.
In conclusion, Daniel 6:20 showcases Daniel’s faithfulness, the king’s concern and confidence, and the underlying theme of God’s deliverance. It reminds us of the importance of unwavering faith and trust in God, and it encourages us to seek His intervention in all circumstances, knowing that He is able to deliver us.
