These heinous acts did not pass unnoticed in Egypt, as we will soon see how the revengeful “ancient soap opera” continues. And an ongoing negative influence pounded the tiny nation of Israel, who repeatedly allowed shallow and worldly influences to turn their attention away from God.
Read MoreIn the very middle of these divisions was Israel. Not only was the “traffic” of those traveling between the northern areas (Syria) and southern areas (Egypt), straight through Palestine, there was also the constant political push-and-pull of these upon the inhabitants of the Promised Land.
Read MoreThe parenthetical statement of Gabriel that began in the middle of the closing verse of chapter 10 is completed in the opening verse of chapter 11. It seems an unusual place to divide chapters, but it helps to cement the preparation of Daniel that occurred in chapter 10 to the revelation just ahead . . . .
Read MoreSpiritual battles, though we cannot see them with our eyes, are indescribably fierce. None of us would stand a chance of making it out alive if it were not for mighty angels who do battle on our behalf. But sometimes even they need help.
Read MoreThe root cause of this world’s constant battle for power is the rebellion of Lucifer in heaven before our world was created. It was a challenge to God’s authority, His law, His very character!
Read MoreYes, there are trials and triumphs ahead for every one of God’s people. We must learn to seek character over comfort and holiness over happiness. The deepest comfort and the brightest happiness await all whose love for God causes them to seek the character and holiness that is pleasing to Him.
Read MoreDaniel’s close walk with God translated into a profound concern for the future of all of His people. Here, Gabriel refers to God’s people as Daniel’s people. Throughout history, God has always had a covenant people; a remnant, through whom the message of salvation was to be conveyed to the world at large.
Read MoreDaniel’s three-weeks of prayer may have seemed to him unanswered. But, in addition to the assurance of God’s love, Gabriel also assured him that his prayers were most definitely heard. From the outset, the process of answering had already begun.
Read MoreThose who were with Daniel did not know God. Moreover, they did not know of the greatness of His mercy. The nearness of Christ in His glory is a terror to any who know not of His goodness.
Read MoreOur world, in its fallen state, has sadness and mourning that exists side-by-side with seasons of celebration. Only a close relationship with the LORD maintains the perspective necessary to be spiritually and mentally healthy.
Read MoreDaniel’s response to discouragement is more prayer. This must also be our response, for future blessings are contingent upon present obedience!
Read MoreWhile the truth of prophecy marches onward, it is God’s intention for each individual to perceive the reality of spiritual warfare and exercise their free choice regarding which side of the war he/she will join.
Read MoreForewarned is forearmed. We are in a war! We have a crafty enemy who is using every possible underhanded method to derail the faith of men.
Read MoreIt is from this starting point that we again see the accuracy of Scripture, as one event after another unfolds on God’s prophetic timetable.
Read MoreChrist came into our fallen world not only for the blotting out of sin. He came to reconcile fallen man to His heavenly Father.
Read MoreGabriel is back to lay out details that will bring clarity to Daniel (and also to us!) in answer to Daniel’s prayer. Daniel is well-prepared to receive the rest of the explanation, as he has had time to recover from the initial shock (about a year) and, in addition, he has been fervently seeking the Lord’s wisdom, favor, and mercy . . .
Read MoreTake comfort, beloved, to know that great distances are not a challenge for the messengers of heaven. Heaven is as near to earth as a whispered prayer. If any of us needs help and asks for it, the Commander of the Angel Armies commissions a holy angel to come to our aid.
Read MoreNow Daniel is an old man. His childhood upbringing, training, and social life centered around the God that he loved and His temple. How he longs for the restoration of all the good things he experienced in the place of his childhood! And he knows that God has a plan…
Read MoreDaniel’s earnest prayers for the fulfillment of God’s promise are an example to us. We should not ignore the promises of God. In contrition, we should believe and look for them, seeking them while asking for His help to prepare for the fulfillment of His promises!
Read MoreThis humble distinction reveals Daniel’s painful awareness of the human tendency toward waywardness and self-exaltation yet overshadowed by a settled confidence in the goodness of the LORD.
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