Wed.’s Devo - Daniel’s Humility

Read: Daniel 2:24-3:30; 1 Peter 4:7-5:14; Ps. 119:81-96; Pr. 28:15-16 Arioch seemed happy not to have to kill all the magicians by the speed he got Daniel an audience with the king. Daniel was a very humble man which was why God could use him. Daniel made sure that he didn’t take the credit from God who gave him the interpretation. I find it interesting that God would reveal his secrets of the future to a heathen king but God’s ways are past my understanding. Because he did, it was recorded and it stood as a witness to all that God declares the future. Daniel reminded the king once again that it was not because he was special, but because God was special that he received the interpretation. After the king heard it and knew that was what he had dreamed he exalted Daniel, and Daniel had his three friends exalted. Daniel was promoted to a judge who sat in the gate and decided civil matters because of his godly wisdom and God was glorified. But, King Nebuchadnezzar let the interpretation fill him with pride and erected an altar of gold in his image. When evil men who were probably jealous of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego’s position brought it to the kings attention that they were not bowing to his statue they were thrown into the fire. God was able to deliver them and they ended up promoted even higher. God is able to protect us at work or anywhere the devil tries to slander us or falsely accuse us. One day we might have to lay down our lives for the truth and we can remember these three men and take courage. Our God is able to deliver us! 1 Peter follows this thought reminding us that the end is coming and our relationships with God and others is the key to our survival. Trials are a part of life and we need them so it shouldn’t surprise us when they come, but our joy is found in Christ alone who can carry us through our trials victoriously.