July 10: NO REGRETS

So they answered and said before the king, “That Daniel, who is one of the captives from Judah, does not show due regard for you, O king, or for the decree that you have signed, but makes his petition three times a day.” Daniel 6:13

As these men were standing before the king, they attempted to disguise their eagerness for Daniel’s demise. But their leap at the opportunity to bring a negative report about “that Daniel” made visible to the king, in an instant, the entire scheme. And he had been manipulated to play the leading role in the death of Daniel.

And the king, when he heard these words, was greatly displeased with himself, and set his heart on Daniel to deliver him; and he labored till the going down of the sun to deliver him. Then these men approached the king, and said to the king, “Know, O king, that it is the law of the Medes and the Persians that no decree or statute which the king establishes may be changed.” (vv.14-15)

These men had tried to prejudice the king against Daniel, saying that his prayers to God had violated the royal decree and actually endangered the king’s sovereignty and position as ruler. They suggested that Daniel, a captive Hebrew, lacked gratitude and appreciation toward the king for his very existence. In reminding the king that the decree may not be changed, these conspirators made even clearer to him their animosity toward Daniel. The king was greatly displeased with himself, for allowing himself to be duped by them. Daniel, his most honored and faithful statesman, had been specifically targeted, and the king’s own signature set the sinister plan into place. The knowledge of his role in the whole scheme distressed him beyond description. Note: this scenario parallels the role that each of us has played in causing the death of the Savior. It was our sin that put Him on the cross.

Regret for his involvement in the unjust decree, and love for his friend, was behind the king’s efforts to save Daniel—till the going down of the sun. But they came to naught. So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions. But the king spoke, saying to Daniel, “Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you.” (v.16)

The faith of Daniel, developed from childhood, had an impact upon King Darius. After trying to rescue Daniel with no success, his thoughts turned toward Daniel’s God. The statement of faith from the lips of this pagan king was a declaration of hope in a seemingly hopeless situation. The king’s faith had come into being because of Daniel’s influence. This is a reminder of how important it is to be in church. Each of us is in a different stage of growth. A mature faith can bring a blessing of guidance in the life of another. And new faith is cause for joyous celebration!

Daniel had no regrets. To alter his habit of prayer in order to comply - or even appear to comply - with the new decree, would be a denial of the first Commandment. Daniel sensed the presence of God as he prayed. There was no fear in his heart when he prayed. As a citizen of heaven, the peace of heaven flooded his soul as he poured out his heart to God.

“Love the LORD your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Matthew 22:37