Living With Lions

. . . He is the living God, and stedfast for ever . . . his dominion shall be even unto the end. (Daniel 6:26)

When I visited a museum in Chicago, I saw one of the original Striding Lions of Babylon. It was a large mural-type image of a winged lion with a ferocious expression. Symbolizing Ishtar, the Babylonian goddess of love and war, the lion was an example of 120 similar lions that would have lined a Babylonian pathway during the years of 604–562 bc.

Historians say that after the Babylonians defeated Jerusalem, the Hebrew captives would have seen these lions during their time in Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom. Historians also say it’s likely that some of the Israelites would have believed Ishtar had defeated the God of Israel.           

Daniel, one of the Hebrew captives, did not share the doubts that might have troubled some of his fellow Israelites. His view of God and his commitment to God stayed steady. He prayed three times a day—with his windows open—even when he knew it would mean entering a den of lions. After God rescued Daniel from the hungry animals, King Darius said, “[Daniel’s God] is the living God, and stedfast for ever . . . . He delivereth and rescueth” (Dan. 6:26–27). Daniel’s faithfulness allowed him to influence Babylonian leaders.

Staying faithful to God despite pressure and discouragement can inspire other people to give Him glory.

Dear God, give me the strength to continue to trust in You when I am discouraged. Help me to experience Your never-ending love and stay close to Your side. Amen.

Wow, what truth, when I read this I couldn’t help but think, there are always those watching our walk with God even at times testing our faithfulness in Him. May we continually show our faithfulness to God so we can inspire others. God can soften even the hardest of hearts through our faithfulness in Him. No matter the kind of day your having, stay close to His side and remember, He’s still God!!! Greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. (1 John 4:4)

Have a wonderful day in The Lord!

Today’s Reading is Daniel 6:19-28