S. Daniel 2:17-18, 48-49 (NIV) “Then Daniel returned to his house and explained the matter to his friends Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. He urged them to plead for mercy from the God of Heaven concerning this mystery, so that he and his friends might not be executed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon…. The king placed Daniel in a high position and lavished many gifts on him. He made him ruler over the entire province of Babylon and placed him in charge of all its wisemen. Moreover, at Daniel’s request the king appointed Shadrach, Meshack and Abednego administrators over the province of Babylon….” (These last 3 names were given to Daniels’ 3 friends mentioned earlier in the passage.)
O. King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream, and no one could interpret it. If no one (of the wisemen in Babylon) could interpret this dream, these wisemen would be put to death. A very harsh punishment. Daniel was called in to also give the interpretation. Daniel knew that only God can truly bring such revelation. So, he asked for some time. The first thing he did was to ask his friends to pray on this matter.
Because they prayed and put the matter in God’s hands, God not only gave the revelation of the dream, but he extended such favor to them that Daniel and his three friends were placed as administrators over the province of Babylon.
A. Pray first! It is what I continue to learn to do in all that I do. I need God’s favor, protection, and blessing for all that I do. Therefore, I will continue to be a person who prays first and teaches others to do the same.
P. Thank you Lord for your word today. Holy Spirit, fill me and guide me with wisdom, faith and boldness to continue to be a person who prays firsts and trusts our Lord for His protection, favor, leading and blessing. In Jesus’ name.
