Daniel prayer

Daniel. Most of us know the story of his time in the lions' den.

But do you remember what got them there?

Jealousy, to be sure.

No... not Daniel. He wasn't jealous. But his cabinet members were. So they came up with a plan. They'd watch him very carefully. They'd inspect his books. They'd look at his history. And then they'd point out all his shortcomings to the king.

There was just one problem. Daniel was honest. He paid attention to detail. He was responsible, thorough, and above reproach.

Plan B: Get the king to sign off on something they knew would result in Daniel's death. So these crafty men flattered the king and got him to command that no one in the kingdom could worship anyone but himself.... or else.

Once the snare was set, the men waited and watched. Sure enough. Daniel flung open his window and prayed to Jehovah, just like had always done. I don't know whether it was morning, noon, or night when the men went running like school children intent on tattling, but I'm sure they didn't wait long. You could probably have set a clock by Daniel's prayer time.

To be sure, Daniel knew of the decree. But it didn't matter. His conversations with God were more valuable than life itself.

This particular story about Daniel inspired me to write A Daniel Prayer.

The morning sun has yet to shine.

Yet I am warmed by love divine.

I gaze in wonder at all You’ve made

And as the stars begin to fade

I say a prayer.

I pray for those around me

And for those who will not pray.

I pray for millions hurting;

For those who have no say.

I pray a prayer of thankfulness,

Of worship and of praise.

And Lord I pray I trust in You

through all my days.

The noonday sun, intense and hot,

Reminds my soul that I am not

On fire for You Lord. And so I bow

And ask your Spirit to fill me now.

This is my prayer.

The evening sun casts shades of bronze

Upon skyscrapers and urban lawns.

As from my window I view the scene

I know not all the world’s serene

And say a prayer.

I pray for those around me

And for those who will not pray.

I pray for millions hurting;

For those who have no say.

I pray a prayer of thankfulness,

Of worship and of praise.

And Lord I pray I trust in You

through all my days.