Daniel's God Is Exalted

Beyond the Present Time
The Kingdom of God
Daniel's Vision of Change

Daniel 6:24-28

The Message

²⁴ Then the king commanded that the conspirators who had informed on Daniel be thrown into the lions’ den, along with their wives and children. Before they hit the floor, the lions had them in their jaws, tearing them to pieces.
^25-27 King Darius published this proclamation to every race, color, and creed on earth:

Peace to you! Abundant peace!
    I decree that Daniel’s God shall be worshiped and feared in all parts of my kingdom.
    He is the living God, world without end. His kingdom never falls.
    His rule continues eternally.
    He is a savior and rescuer.
    He performs astonishing miracles in heaven and on earth.
    He saved Daniel from the power of the lions.

²⁸ From then on, Daniel was treated well during the reign of Darius, and also in the following reign of Cyrus the Persian.

For Reflection

Darius declares that Daniel's God is adapted as an official religion.  Little is known, however, whether Darius would count himself among those obedient to God.  This move brought Daniel into not only God's protection but also the civil protection afforded in Darius' Kingdom.

Does such decree result in converts to God?  Perhaps.  It can be seen as a sort of reverse prohibition.  Yes there was somewhat less drinking during prohibition.  However, the unintended consequence was lawlessness and a growing body of organized criminals.  What would be the untended consequence of an American decree which favors Christianity?  Would Christians fare better in a fully Christian society?  Would such a move advance the Kingdom of God? 

Pray

for those who have not willing or able to accept God's terms for reconciliation.  Pray that all peoples would enjoy the peace and justice of God's compassion.