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Devotion by Ben Stuart
“An excellent spirit was in him” (6:3)
Daniel exemplified what it meant to work with excellence. His faith in God did not hinder his work; it fueled it. While others may have exploited their positions for personal gain, Daniel remained committed to serving faithfully.
A true relationship with God enhances our integrity and work ethic. We should strive to cultivate this same excellent spirit in our daily tasks. Would your coworkers say you have an excellent spirit? What is hindering you from such?
“He got down on his knees three times a day” (6:10)
Daniel’s commitment to prayer was unwavering. He didn’t just pray once a day; he marked his daily schedule with several moments dedicated to God. In persecution, he continued to pray with thanksgiving. Daniel delighted in the daily office of prayer. Do you?
What would it look like for you to have this kind of prayer life? Are there moments throughout your daily schedule where you could pause to pray? Maybe you want to set some daily reminders on your phone to bring you back to this posture
“He is the living God… he delivers and rescues” (6:26)
King Darius, who was unable to save Daniel, recognized the power of Daniel’s God, who could save him. The chapter ends with Darius turning to the One who truly saves: “He is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues.” While he could not rescue Daniel from the lions, God could.
This chapter foreshadows Jesus. Like Daniel, Jesus faced false accusations and arrest while praying in the garden. Like Daniel, Jesus remained steadfast in the face of persecution. Like Daniel thrown and sealed in the lions’ den, Jesus was thrown to his death and sealed in a tomb. Yet, Jesus is the Son of the Living God who raised him from the dead. Why did Jesus come, live, die, and rise? For you. To deliver and rescue you. That’s your God… the living God.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for Daniel’s example of excellence.
Help me to embody an excellent spirit and integrity in my daily tasks.
Teach me to remain faithful and steadfast in my commitment to You.
Guide me to prioritize prayer throughout my day.
Thank You for being the living God who delivers.
I praise You for Jesus, our ultimate rescue and salvation.
Amen.