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Daniel in the Lions’ Den (Daniel 6)
As Daniel grew into an older man, God continued to show him favor as Daniel served under a new king—King Darius. Yet, Daniel’s place in the government of Babylon was a subject of jealousy. In an attempt to trap Daniel, royal officials petitioned Darius to enact a law forbidding anyone from praying to any god other than the king. Just as the officials suspected, Daniel continued praying to the one true God.
The Bible points out that Daniel prayed as an act of defiance to the new law. When Daniel was faced with the possibility of death if he prayed, he made a courageous decision. Daniel 6:10 says, “When Daniel learned that the document had been signed, he went into his house. The windows in its upstairs room opened toward Jerusalem, and three times a day he got down on his knees, prayed, and gave thanks to his God, just as he had done before.” Instead of hiding his prayers, Daniel boldly walked in obedience, knowing his life would be put in danger.
In the garden of Gethsemane, Jesus faced a similar decision with even greater consequences. Following the Last Supper, Jesus spent time with the Father in prayer. Jesus wrestled with His coming death as He asked the Father to take the cup from Him if possible. Luke describes the agony that Jesus went through in this decision by telling us Jesus’ sweat fell like blood due to the intensity of His time with God. Jesus surrendered to the will of the Father even though it led to death. God honored the obedience of both men. He delivered Daniel from the lion’s den, and He delivered Jesus—the only person to always obey God perfectly—from the grave in victory over death.
One final detail of this story should challenge us in our walk with God: Darius was rooting for Daniel. Right before Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den, the king hoped out loud that Daniel’s God would deliver him from death. Eventually, after Daniel’s deliverance, the king declared all people must respect Daniel’s God.
God, thank You for the example that Daniel set for those who trust in You. Guide us to faithfully obey Your commands every day and let our actions point others to Your glory. Amen.
Family Discussion Questions
- What is the scariest animal you can think of? Why do you think this animal is scary?
- Why do you think Daniel obeyed God rather than King Darius?
- (parent prompt: God is the one true King; He is our ultimate authority. We are called to obey God above any earthly leaders. Daniel would have sinned against God if he chose to follow the king’s law. Obeying God will always be for our good.)
3. How did Daniel’s obedience bring God glory?
- (parent prompt: God was glorified because Daniel’s obedience showed he loved God more than anything else. And even though Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den, God saved him. King Darius praised God as the living God who rescues and delivers.)
Key Passage
Corinthians 10:31 - So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for the glory of God.
Christ Connection
- Babies & Toddlers: Daniel loved God, and God kept him safe. When we trust Jesus, He saves us and gives us life with God forever.
- Younger Preschool: Daniel trusted God, and God saved him from the lions. When we trust Jesus, He saves us and gives us life with God forever.
- Older Preschool: Daniel trusted God and was saved from the lions. When we trust in Jesus, He saves us from our sins and gives us life with God forever.
- Kids: Daniel continued to trust God even though it meant he might be thrown into the lions’ den. Jesus was faithful to follow God’s plan even through it meant He would die on the cross for sinners.
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