Daniel

I loved reading the story of Daniel and the lion's den.  I don't think I have ever actually read it before.  It can be found in Daniel 6.

Daniel was favored of the Lord and King Darius because he had the Spirit with him (verse 3).  King Darius loved this about Daniel so much that he intended to put Daniel over all the other princes and presidents, which made the princes and presidents jealous.  They had King Darius sign a decree that any found worshiping God would be put into the lion's den (7-9).

Daniel did not follow this decree.  He continued to pray in his home with the windows open for all to see 3 times a day (10).  When the princes and presidents saw this they reported him to King Darius.  Darius did not want to throw Daniel in the lion's den but the decree was written in a way that it could not be changed (12).  There was nothing Darius could do so he had to put Daniel in the lion's den.

At this point, King Darius shows great faith.  He reminded Daniel that his God would save him (16) and then he went home and he prayed and fasted ALL night (18).  And Darius turned out to be very right.  Daniel was saved and the princes and presidents were thrown into the lion's den along with their families (24, pretty gruesome verse).

King Darius then sends out a decree to the people.  In this decree, he describes God to be living, steadfast, and a miracle worker (26-27).

I love this story.  It is so encouraging to me.  I may never face death as a result of living my religion but there are times when I will receive persecution.  I know that as I faithfully live the Gospel, the Lord will protect me.  I will receive blessings for following His commandments.