MONDAY, MAY 14
Daniel 6:18-23
Psalm 30:8-12

“… unto the LORD
I made supplication.”

SADNESS IN THE NIGHT

While we know little about king Darius, the little that we know shows him to be a man of tender heart, favourably disposed towards the servant of God. That he was also a just man was seen in his strenuous effort to save Daniel, whom he recognized was wrongly accused. Calvin’s assessment of Darius does not do him justice. He thinks that the king wanted to save Daniel only because of the benefits which he had received from him.

Now the effect of Daniel’s condemnation to the den of lions on the king is most revealing. He spent the night in deep mourning: no food, no sleep, no music. His heart went out to Daniel. The wildest fears tore at his bosom, racked his brain. It was probably his longest night.

GLADNESS IN THE MORNING

At first light, Darius made his way to the den of lions, and called to Daniel with tearful voice. Notice the king’s words in Daniel 6:20.

Darius acknowledged Daniel as “servant of the living God.” His question had a ring of hope. Deep in his heart there was a ray of light, be it just a little ray. Nevertheless, it echoed his earlier utterance: “Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee” (Dan 6:16).

The king’s heartfelt wish and longing was not in vain. His mourning was turned into dancing. What joy and gladness! No sweeter sound than Daniel’s voice coming from the depths of the den of lions.

Hallelujah, our God is able! In every age, God has His faithful few who care not for life and limb or personal safety. Should we today not follow in their steps, and stand for God, by faith?

THOUGHT: “Faith of our fathers, living still. In spite of dungeon, fire and sword. O how our hearts beat high with joy, whene’er we hear that glorious word! … We will be true to thee till death!” (Faber)
PRAYER: Help me, Father, to be a Daniel.