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DANIEL The following comments are from Navigator's and Quiet Time Diary journals. One verse will be entered, then the comment, then the date. 1:4 - young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. . . This was a description of 4 young men from Judah including Daniel. Later in this chapter, Daniel objected as to what food he was given indicating that food had an influence in appearance (v.15) and his appearance was important to him. The king was impressed with Daniel's concern and the chapter shows how much even one person can influence a higher authority. (DRM 8/31/87) Probably since the beginning of time, people have looked for perfection. God made man in "Our" image, and God is perfect. Jesus was perfect and the king here was looking for youth with "no defect." Christians are all perfect in God's eyes - HE can't look upon sin. (DRM 6/25/2000) Perfectionism. King Nebuchadnezzar was looking for the very best to serve him. Daniel and others met the standard. Later Jesus certainly did. While I know that I don't, I keep trying to do the best with what the Lord Jesus gives me to do. (DRM 4/13/03) Like people today, King Nebuchadnezzar looked for youth that looked good from the outside instead of trying to find out the condition of their souls. Fortunately, Daniel and his three friends had both good looks and a heart for the Lord God. Still, the inward soul is far more important than the outward appearance. (DRM 11/20/05) 1:12 "Please test your servants for ten days, and let us be given some vegetables to eat and water to drink." Somehow, Daniel knew that eating too much meat was not good for his body. He wanted to stay thin. While I eat some meat, it is not in large quantities. The high fat in some meat gets me nervous and I hope that this pleases the Lord. (DRM 4/14/03) 1:17 And as for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and intelligence in every branch of literature and wisdom; Daniel even understood all kinds of visions and dreams. "God gave them," was the reason I chose this verse. We try hard to do things on our own, but if we don't depend on the Lord Jesus, and ask Him for anything in His name, He won't give us these things. (DRM 6/26/2000) In verses 12-16, Daniel requested that his friends and himself eat only vegetables and water instead of the King's choice food. While this could be important, I think this verse is the true source. God gave them intelligence - and probably would have no matter what they ate. . . but good food helps! (DRM 11/21/05) 2:5 The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The command from me is firm: if you do not make known to me the dream and its interpretation, you will be torn limb from limb, and your houses will be made a rubbish heap. . . " This seemed like an impossible request from the king. He didn't just want the interpretation of his dream, but the content as well. Only God or someone He sent would be able to do that! (DRM 6/27/2000) What made King Nebuchadnezzar think anyone else would know his dreams? It seems to me by this request that God planned this whole event to get Daniel to meet the King. God arranges ALL of our circumstances so that each of us may serve Him in a different way. (DRM 11/22/05) 2:18 in order that they might request compassion from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his friends might not be destroyed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon. This is a long way of saying that Daniel and his three friends prayed to God for the meaning of this dream. In the following verse, God revealed the answer, then Daniel praised the Lord. I also praise the Lord when He tells me what to do. The hard part is not being distracted away from doing it! (DRM 4/15/03) 2:19 Then the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven; Before this, Daniel asked his friends to pray to God about the mystery [dream]. This is a great example of how God answers prayers. Daniel was very thankful and showed this in later verses. A great example! (DRM 6/28/2000) When I pray to God for a specific thing, like Daniel did here, I expect God to give me a specific answer. He decides if I should receive an answer, wait, or not receive any reply. When I DO receive His response, and know it's from Him, I also try to thank Him immediately. (DRM 11/24/05) 2:28 "However, there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will take place in the latter days. This was your dream and the visions in your mind while on your bed." Before Daniel revealed anything to the king, he made sure that the king knew that the source of the interpretation was from God and NOT Daniel. That's a great witness, in my opinion! If that were not said, people would say "he is a smart person" rather than crediting God. (DRM 6/29/2000) Daniel was given a gift from God to interpret dreams. Before giving the King the interpretation of the dream, he was sure to point out the Source. While God hasn't given me that gift, I'm sure that He has a plan in mind for me at the right time. (DRM 4/16/03) In verse 27, Daniel told the king that no one can reveal dreams [v.28] except God. He wanted to be sure that God was honored and not himself. Sometimes people don't like the history before an answer, as I do often, but Daniel did that here effectively - to give God the glory. (DRM 11/24/05) 2:31 "You, O king, were looking and behold, there was a single great statue; that statue, which was large and of extraordinary splendor, was standing in front of you, and its appearance was awesome." In this section, Daniel described, in detail, the statue that the kind had seen in his dream. As I wrote yesterday [2:28], Daniel could not have known this without God's help. God used Daniel and God can use me. (DRM 6/30/2000) 2:35 "Then, the iron, the clay, the bronze, the silver and the gold were crushed all at the same time, and became like chaff from the summer threshing floors; and the wind carried them away so that not a trace of them was found. But the stone that struck the statue became a great mountain and filled the whole earth." While I didn't go ahead for Daniel's interpretation, I believe the stone that struck the final kingdom was sent by God, and His Kingdom will someday rule the earth. (DRM 11/25/05) 2:45 "Inasmuch as you saw that a stone was cut out of the mountain without hands and that it crushed the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold, the great God has made known to the king what will take place in the future; so the dream is true, and its interpretation is trustworthy." As I wrote the verse above, I thought how Jesus is the stone cut out of the mountain without hands and how He will b the ruler to come. Thank God for Daniel who told of the future so long ago, so we know how to live in the present. (DRM 7/1/2000) 2:47 The king (Nebuchadnezzar) said to Daniel, "Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery." The king found out quickly that Daniel was special. What Daniel was doing (in a way) was witnessing to the king about God! I hope that I may be as bold as Daniel was! (DRM 5/29/89) Daniel didn't hide his faith. Everyone knew of his trust in the Lord God. In verse 46, the King bows before Daniel! He was put in charge of the kingdom and totally trusted because of his faith. I pray that people will see my faith - and also believe. (DRM 4/17/03) King Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged that his dream was related by Daniel - but more importantly - that Daniel's insight came from God, and not himself. While the king wasn't a worshipper of our God, I think he was thinking about it! (DRM 11/26/05) 3:5 . . . that at the moment you hear the sound of the horn, flute, lyre, trigon, psaltery, bagpipe, and all kinds of music, you are to fall down and worship the golden image that Nebuchadnezzar the King has set up. A new part of Daniel begins here, but now I wonder if this "idol" that the king set up for worship was really his understanding of the dream that Daniel interpreted previously. Whatever the case, God was not pleased. (DRM 7/2/2000) 3:6 "But whoever does not fall down and worship shall immediately be cast into the midst of a furnace of blazing fire." King Nebuchadnezzar had an image made - perhaps of himself? - that he commanded that all should worship. Daniel and his friends knew the Ten Commandments - particularly #1, and refused the King's command. Like the friends of Daniel, I may be asked to stand up for my beliefs someday and remember that it will affect my eternal future. (DRM 11/27/05) 3:17 "If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king." Knowing that they would be sent to the furnace, the three Jewish men had the FAITH to trust in the Lord for this ultimate need. How would I react if the same thing happened to me? (DRM 7/3/2000) Daniel's friends had true faith in God, as shown here. In the face of death, they didn't waiver. How would I react? Most likely I would be too terrified to speak! Lord, don't let my heart melt when I face fire or temptations. (DRM 4/18/03) Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego had great faith - like their friend Daniel, who wasn't there. They stood up for their faith and refused to worship the King's idols. I pray that I will be as strong in my faith when faced in trials like this, or any kind that tries to divert me away from worshipping Jesus=God. (DRM 11/28/05) 3:18 But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up." Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego had decided to
worship and serve only the true God and not the king's gods or idols. This
statement caused the king to throw them into the furnace (v. 19). The one that
spoke this statement knew his trust was in God, but, like us, didn't know if God
would save his life or that he would go to Heaven immediately ("even if He does
not,"). 3:25 He (King Nebuchadnezzar) answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. [KJV] Three Jews had been thrown into the fire because they would not worship the king's idol. It must have been a shock that they didn't burn. Lord, help me be willing to die for You! (DRM 11/9/88) King Nebuchadnezzar was upset that Daniel's three friends would not worship him. He would kill them for sure - then the surprise. It was unexpected - like the rapture will be - and, after seeing Jesus[?] his life was changed. If more people only knew that Jesus was with them, they would worship Him, too. (DRM 4/19/03) 3:26 Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the door of the furnace of blazing fire; he responded and said, "Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego, come out, you servants of the Most High God, and come here!" Then Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego came out of the midst of the fire. Shadrach, Meshach and Abed-nego refused to
obey their earthly king, serving and putting all their trust in God. They had
faith - even to death (v. 18) if necessary. Even if our suffering doesn't end on this side of eternity, God is and always will be mighty, trustworthy, and good. We can rely on His constant and loving presence. (from Our Daily Bread, XOCHITL DIXON 12/6/17) 3:28 Nebuchadnezzar responded and said, "Blessed by the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent His angel and delivered His servants who put their trust in Him, violating the King's command, and yielded up their bodies so as not to serve or worship any god except their own God." King Nebuchadnezzar needed physical proof to see that God exists. Many people in today's world feel the same way - they must see "it" to believe "it." Believers know Him without seeing Him. We feel His [Holy Spirit] leading in our lives. (DRM 11/29/05) 3:29 "Therefore, I make a decree that any people, nation or tongue that speaks anything offensive against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego shall be torn limb from limb and their houses reduced to a rubbish heap, inasmuch as there is no other god who is able to deliver in this way." On a day like this in the USA when we think of the Christian heritage of the country, we need a renewed decree like the one the king gave in this verse. I thank God that He opened my eyes to know Him and pray that He will use me to tell others in some way. (DRM 7/4/2000) 4:9 "O Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, since I know that a spirit of the holy gods is in you and no mystery baffles you, tell me the visions of my dream which I have seen, along with its interpretation." King Nebuchadnezzar had another dream about a large tree that was cut down and asked Daniel (Belteshazzar) to interpret it. As the king knew of Daniel's abilities, he was called on again. I hope that someday people will do the same for me. (DRM 7/5/2000) 4:16 "Let his mind be changed from that of a man, And let a beast's mind be given to him, And let seven periods of time pass over him." God works in mysterious ways and can do ANYTHING to get our attention. Here He was telling King Nebuchadnezzar in a dream what would happen to him for not worshipping the true God. How will God change me, or correct me, to worship Him more every day - as He is the true provider of all things? (DRM 11/30/05) 4:17 b,c,d,e And the decision is a command of the holy ones, In order that the living may know That the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, And bestows it on whom He wishes, . . . I don't make ALL the decisions in my life. The triune God decides who I will meet today [including the day I came to know Jesus], my health, my appearance, what roads I will travel etc. Jesus is my Leader - I am the follower. (DRM 4/20/03) 4:25 that you be driven away from mankind, and your dwelling place be with the beasts of the field, and you be given grass to eat like cattle and be drenched with the dew of heaven; and seven periods of time will pass over you, until you recognize that the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind, and bestows it on whomever He wishes. Daniel gave this as part of his interpretation of the king's dream. The king was to become as cattle until he knew the Lord was in charge. Some people in today's world need the same treatment. Praise God for His opening my eyes! (DRM 7/6/2000) Daniel [Belteshazzar] gave this prophecy to King Nebuchadnezzar. In this dream the King would be with cattle until he realized that God is in charge. Hopefully, I have learned this without the necessity of becoming like the cattle. God can do ANYTHING. (DRM 4/21/03) 4:26 And in that it was commanded to leave the stump with the roots of the tree, your kingdom will be assured to you after you recognize that it is Heaven that rules. The king (Nebuchadnezzar) was a very proud
person. His kingdom had grown like the tree in his dream. He needed to know that
God is in control, and that he must worship the One and only God of Heaven. 4:34a, b "But at the end of that period I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my reason returned to me, and I blessed the Most High, and praised and honored Him who lives forever; God fulfills prophecy. It didn't take long for the King to find this out. He knew in advance what would happen to him - as Daniel stated - but still proclaimed himself supreme over his nation. Like yesterday, I pray that I will be humble and always give the Lord Jesus honor and thanksgiving. (DRM 12/2/05) 4:35c No one can hold back his hand or say to him: "What have you done?" King Nebuchadnezzar had just fulfilled his
dream of living 7 years as an animal. After the 7 years were up, he praised the
Lord including today's verse. 4:37 "Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise, exalt, and honor the King of heaven, for all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride." The events prophesied in verse 25 had all come true and the king wrote this verse after the event. Some people need dramatic things to happen to them to believe in the Lord as provider. I pray that I will continue to depend on Him without anything painful and dramatic. (DRM 7/7/2000) It seems that King Nebuchadnezzar became a believer in God after what he went through with the cattle. That was all that was required in Old Testament days. Now we must understand the Trinity and the gift of Jesus for salvation. (DRM 4/22/03) 5:5 Suddenly the fingers of a human hand appeared and wrote on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. King Belshazzar had just used holy goblets
and praised the gods of gold, silver, bronze . . . but never the true GOD. King Belshazzar, son of King Nebuchadnezzar, had just used the sacred wine cups from the temple to have a drinking party. By seeing the hand writing on the wall he got predictably nervous. He soon realized that only God's people can read His writing. (DRM 4/23/03) 5:6 Then the King's face grew pale, and his thoughts alarmed him; and his hip joints went slack, and his knees began knocking together. Terror hasn't changed in thousands of years. King Belshazzar had just seen the hand write on the wall. It was a terrifying sight. What had he done? He had just drunk wine from the Jerusalem temple vessels. Certain things are holy. Like the temple vessels being sin to the king, I must also try to avoid sin in my life. (DRM 12/3/05) 5:11 "There is a man in your kingdom in whom is a spirit of the holy gods; and in the days of your father, illumination, insight, and wisdom like the wisdom of the gods were found in him. And King Nebuchadnezzar, your father, your father the king, appointed him chief of the magicians, conjurers, chaldeans, and diviners." The new King Belshazzar had just seen a hand writing something on the wall and didn't know Daniel. The above verse was spoken by the Queen. I'd say the good part of this verse was that Daniel was known by someone and that Daniel would speak the Truth to the king. (DRM 7/8/2000) 5:22 Yet you, his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, even though you knew all this, Daniel had just reviewed how King Nebuchadnezzar learned that God was truly ruler over all. The writing on the wall that Belshazzar's kingdom would end as a result of his disobedience in not worshipping the true God. Even though I am far from being a king, I must worship God and give Him the glory for all that is done. (DRM 12/4/05) 5:26,28 "This is the interpretation of the message: (on the wall) 'MENE' - God has numbered your kingdom and put an end to it. 28 'PERES' - your kingdom has been divided and given over to the Medes and Persians." Daniel had a great gift of interpretation! The next day the king was dead. Apparently he never asked for forgiveness and paid the price. Again, I pray that the Lord will be using me in some way to advance His Kingdom. (DRM 7/9/2000) 6:4 Then the commissioners and satraps began trying to find a ground of accusation against Daniel in regard to government affairs; but they could find no ground of accusation or evidence of corruption, inasmuch as he was faithful, and no negligence or corruption was to be found in him. King Darius thought Daniel was doing a great
job as one of his three highest advisors. With jealousy, the other two advisors
and others tried to find a fault with Daniel and couldn't find any until verse
five {below}. 6:5 Then these men said, "We shall not find any ground of accusation against this Daniel unless we find it against him with regard to the law of his God." Non-believers can tell that believers in God are different. Here the other commissioners plotted a way to remove Daniel, and King Darius signed the law, not realizing that Daniel was the target. Perhaps someone is trying to stop my witness for Christ, but I must trust in Him for my spiritual and physical protection. (DRM 12/5/05) 6:7b . . . that the king should establish a statute and enforce an injunction that anyone who makes a petition to any god or man besides you, O King, for thirty days, shall be cast into the lions' den. This was a set-up. They wanted to get rid of Godly Daniel. It seems that Satan puts ideas into minds to effect people to attack godly people, now Christians. Usually the attacks are strongest against people who are more influential in bringing people to Christ. (DRM 4/24/03) 6:8, 9 Now, O king, establish the injunction and sign the document so that it may not be changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which may not be revoked." 9Therefore King Darius signed the document, that is, the injunction. King Darius had to trust his advisors as he
couldn't know everything in his kingdom. He didn't know they wrote this document
only to eliminate Daniel, one of the king's three commissioners. (v. 2) (v. 5) 6:10 Now when Daniel knew that the document was signed, he entered his house (now in his roof chamber he had windows open towards Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling on his knees three times a day, praying and giving thanks before his God, as he had been doing previously. The new king, Darius, had signed a statute that only he could be petitioned - not any god. Daniel was aware of this, but that didn't stop him from worshipping the true God. There would be a price to pay. (DRM 7/10/2000) 6:16 Then the king gave orders, and Daniel was brought in and cast into the lions den. The king spoke and said to Daniel, "Your God whom you constantly serve will Himself deliver you." Throughout this passage there are references that the king (Darius) believed that Daniel would not be hurt because of his (Daniel's) faith. I am convinced that the king became a believer in God as a result of the lions den. [v. 26-27](DRM 7/11/2000) I think the king's comment shows his faith in God. He was genuinely concerned about Daniel and believed that God would protect Daniel from the lions. God loved Daniel by protecting him, and the king also hoped that Daniel's god was God. (DRM 4/25/03) King Darius seems to have faith in God, or in Daniel at this point. As Daniel is protected from the lions overnight, it seems that the king suffered more than Daniel. God, through Daniel, showed the king that dependence on Him is essential. How many others need to learn this today? (DRM 12/6/05) 6:21, 22 Then Daniel spoke to the king, "O king, live forever! 22My God sent His angel and shut the lions' mouths and they have not harmed me, inasmuch as I was found innocent before Him; and also toward you, O king, I have committed no crime." The commissioners and satraps (v. 6) did not
like Daniel. I think they were jealous of his position. Apparently the king
didn't read what he signed, or didn't think of Daniel and his God. 6:23 Then the king was very pleased and gave orders for Daniel to be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den and no injury whatever was found on him, because he had trusted in his God. King Darius had signed the statute (v. 9)
that could not be changed. When Daniel was brought before him, he tried to
rescue him (v. 14). He had to fulfill the edict, so spent that night fasting (v.
18) that Daniel would be safe. The next morning he rushed to see how Daniel did.
(v. 19) 6:26 I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. How great it would be if our country issued a
decree like this one that was issued when Daniel survived overnight in the
lion's den! Our country needs more faith in a true living God and not in
themselves or only their own abilities. [re: 6:26a] Certainly this verse, with yesterday's verse, seems to show the faith of King Darius. As I make a major decision soon, I pray that my decision will be based on faith and devotion to my Lord, God, Jesus Christ. (DRM 4/26/03) 7:2-3 Daniel said, "I was looking in my vision by night, and behold, the four winds of heaven were stirring up the great sea. 3And four great beasts were coming up from the sea, different from one another. In previous passages, Daniel interpreted the kings dreams, but this time the dream was his. Daniel was gifted with the gift of interpretation of dreams, so I'm sure he will explain all of this. God apparently has given me other gifts. Thank you, Lord! (DRM 7/12/2000) 7:11 "Then I kept looking because of the sound of the boastful words which the horn was speaking; I kept looking until the beast was slain, and its body was destroyed and given to the burning fire." A lot of Daniel's prophecies seem to make more sense when they are compared and explained in Revelation. The beast is Satan, and his destruction in the lake of fire is in Revelation. Certainly I'm looking forward to that day - and wonder if I will witness these events from Heaven? (DRM 12/7/05) 7:13 I kept looking in the night visions, And behold with the clouds of heaven One like a Son of Man was coming, And He came up to the Ancient of Days And was presented before Him . . . and He was given a Kingdom . . . Jesus isn't named in the Old Testament, but it seems obvious that He is referred to here. Someday soon Jesus will be the ruler of this Kingdom. When He comes back everyone will know who He is! (DRM 7/13/2000) 7:14 He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all peoples, nations and men of every language worshiped him. His dominion . . . will not pass away. . . will never be destroyed. This seems as clear as, or clearer than Revelation! Jesus Christ had not yet been born, but these things had already been written. How great it is to know the future! (DRM 5/30/89) 7:22 . . . until the Ancient of Days came, and the judgment was passed in favor of the saints of the Highest One, and the time arrived when the saints took possession of the kingdom. We win! That's a primary motivation of all people. No one wants to be a loser. This passage shows that God is on our side. Who could ask for more? (DRM 7/14/2000) 7:24 As for the ten horns, out of this kingdom ten kings will arise; and another will arise after them, and he will be different from the previous ones and will subdue three kings. Certainly the ten horns seem to indicate the European Union that now exists, then "another will arise." Most people say he (another) has to be European also. Lord, I need more wisdom on this! (DRM 7/15/2000) 7:25 'And he will speak out against the Most High and wear down the saints of the Highest One, and he will intend to make alterations in times and in law; and they will be given into his hand for a time, times and half a time.' Obviously Satan or the Antichrist is referred to here. To know that he will "wear down" the saints of God on earth for 3½ years is not an exciting thought. Like yesterday, I wonder if I will observe this from Heaven - or experience it on earth? There are different opinions - only God knows for sure. (DRM 12/8/05) 8:6 And he (goat) came up to the ram that had the two horns, which I had seen standing in front of the canal, and rushed at him in his mighty wrath. There is little that I can write about the vision that this describes unless I jump to modern conclusions that aren't in the Bible. (DRM 7/16/2000) 8:10 And it (the little horn) grew up to the host of heaven and caused some of the host and some of the stars to fall to the earth, and it trampled them down. I am not an interpreter of dreams, and the interpretation for this one comes in tomorrow's reading; however, I believe that the little horn referred to here is Satan when he rebelled against God and transferred angels allegiance from God to him to become demons. (DRM 12/9/05) Apparently this is not correct from the commentary that I read later. . . check it out! 8:11 It even magnified itself to be equal with the Commander of the host; and it removed the regular sacrifice from Him, and the place of Hi sanctuary was thrown down. This continues the vision that started yesterday. My understanding of "it" is Satan in this verse. I will have to wait for the explanation tomorrow. (DRM 7/17/2000) 8:24 And his power will be mighty, but not by his own power, And he will destroy to an extraordinary degree And prosper and perform his will; He will destroy mighty men and the holy people. This sounds like the antichrist to me. Things that I've been told and have read indicate his ruthlessness, especially when it comes to destroying the "holy people." (DRM 7/18/2000) 8:25b When they feel secure, he will destroy many and take his stand against the Prince of princes. Yet he will be destroyed, but not by human power. This second vision of Daniel was not as clear to understand as the first. In this verse it seems that Satan will stand against Jesus and God will intervene. Will I be ready? (DRM 5/30/89) 8:26 "And the vision of the evenings and mornings which has been told is true; But keep the vision secret, For it pertains to many days in the future." Everyone probably has dreams. Almost all of mine don't seem spiritual. I don't get any special meaning from many of them. While Daniel's dreams had some meaning, he wasn't allowed to tell us all. The best is to continue and to trust totally in the Lord's provision. (DRM 12/10/05) 9:9 "To the Lord our God belong compassion and forgiveness, for we have rebelled against Him;" In verse 2, Daniel refers to Jeremiah's prophecy [Jer. 25:11] of the duration of their captivity in Babylon. As the time was drawing near, Daniel began to pray for Israel's deliverance - as in this verse. I should also be praying more for my nation, and it's problems daily. (DRM 12/11/05) 9:13 "As it is written in the law of Moses, all this calamity has come on us; yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our iniquity and giving attention to Thy truth." Daniel is praying for his people, Israel. Even in those days it was known that the nation was not following the law of the Lord. Things haven't changed much for millennium now. (DRM 7/19/2000) 9:18b for we are not presenting our supplications before Thee on account of any merits of our own, but on account of Thy great compassion. Who am I? Compared to God, I am dust. He doesn't have to listen to my opinions or requests. He could have done without my help . . . but, out of His compassion, He still loves me and has directed my life. He is a very kind God = Jesus. (DRM 4/27/03) 9:19 "O Lord, hear! O Lord, forgive! O Lord, listen and take action! For Thine own sake, O my Lord, do not delay, because Thy city and Thy people are called by Thy name." Daniel completes his prayer here. He is praying for Israel and Jerusalem here. With the peace talks continuing TODAY, this seems an appropriate prayer for today and the status of Jerusalem. (DRM 7/20/2000) Throughout all of the verses of this passage, Daniel pleads to the Lord God to forgive Israel for its sins against Him. He [Daniel] clearly knew what the sins were and mentions them. Sometimes when I sin, I don't know it until much later. Thankfully, with the Holy Spirit in me, I get convicted, so I can also repent for my sins. (DRM 12/12/05) 9:21 while I was still speaking in prayer, then the man Gabriel, whom I had seen in the vision previously, came to me in my extreme weariness about the time of the evening offering. Why was Daniel special? Here it shows that Daniel had visions and spoke to Angels; and Gabriel is #1 or #2. The insight that Daniel had came from Gabriel, the messenger. How my life would change if the same were to happen to me! (DRM 4/28/03) 9:24 Seventy 'sevens' (weeks) are decreed for your people and your holy city to finish transgression, to put an end to sin, to atone for wickedness, to bring in everlasting righteousness, to seal up vision and prophecy and to anoint the most holy. That's right! God gave them seventy weeks to
change their ways. That's about 1¼ years! We shouldn't need that long to change
our ways if we know exactly what God's purpose is for our life. Thank you God
for being so patient! Help me to know exactly what You want me to do, and the
ability to do it. This is a quote from the angel Gabriel [v. 21]. To read this "job description," it is obvious that all of these events couldn't occur in 70 weeks. Now we know this refers to 70 weeks of years = 490 and the big break after the 69th week. There's only one week to go - but when will it begin? (DRM 12/13/05) 9:27 "And he will make a firm covenant with the many for one week, but in the middle of the week he will put a stop to sacrifice and grain offering; and on the wing of abominations will come one who makes desolate, even until a complete destruction, one that is decreed, is poured out on the one who makes desolate." This is what the Christians are looking for. When there is a 7 year covenant with Israel all these things will begin to happen. Every day now I wonder if an agreement will be announced and how that will affect my life. The time is near. . . (DRM 7/21/2000) 10:2,3 In those days, I, Daniel, had been mourning for three entire weeks. 3I did not eat any tasty food, nor did meat or wine enter my mouth, nor did I use any ointment at all. . . This is the introduction to another of Daniel's visions. He had just completed a three week fast. While I don't know if fasting is a requirement for a vision, certainly it shows his devotion and desire to hear from God and to do His will. (DRM 4/29/03) 10:6 His body also was like beryl, his face had the appearance of lightning, his eyes were like flaming torches, his arms and feet like the gleam of polished bronze, and the sound of his words like the sound of a tumult. Daniel saw this man on the banks of the Tigris River [v. 4-5]. Later [v. 7] Daniel calls it a vision, and describes how he and others with him reacted. From the description, I would think this is the pre-incarnate Jesus. How would I react if I saw something similar? I think I'd bow down before Him. (DRM 12/14/05) 10:8 So I was left alone and saw this great vision (of angel/Christ in the clouds?); yet no strength was left in me, for my natural color turned to a deathly pallor, and I retained no strength. Just yesterday, a co-worker asked me how I would react if Jesus was standing before me. Sure, I would be in awe, but I would also want His advice and counsel. When that day comes (and it will), I pray that I will be pleasing to Him. (DRM 7/22/2000) 10:12 Then he said to me, "Do not be afraid, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart on understanding this and on humbling yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to your words." Prayer is heard. Whoever spoke the words above, if it was an angel or Christ Himself, was there to give encouragement to Daniel (and me) to assure him that prayer is heard. So long as we try to understand the Word and do it, Heaven listens. (DRM 7/23/2000) Jesus - God hears our prayers. He knows the desires of my heart and how I love Him and want to serve Him. Daniel was fortunate to have an angel that gave him messages from God. I pray that the decisions that I make will bring Him glory. (DRM 4/30/03) 10:14 ". . . Now I have come to give you an understanding of what will happen to your people in the latter days, for the vision pertains to the days yet future." Angels are Biblical and real. Most of the
time we don't see them, but sometimes see the results of what they are doing
"behind the scenes." We really are just a small part of the whole picture and,
at least I, don't think about all that is going on in the spiritual dimension
every day. 10:18 Then this one with human appearance touched me again and strengthened me. When this angel or Jesus spoke he gave encouragement. When he touched Daniel, he gave Daniel the strength to continue. I need someone like this to "push" me and encourage and strengthen me in my spiritual walk. (DRM 7/24/2000) While I often want to be literally strong, I think this strengthening refers to becoming more courageous [v. 19]. I need to overcome my weakness or fear to speak to a strength of proclaiming my Lord Jesus to other people. (DRM 5/1/03) Daniel was still referring to his vision. The Person [I think Jesus] here made Daniel weak in fear or apprehension. He asked to be strengthened, and in this verse, it was done immediately. I this this refers to spiritual rather than physical strength - how I would like more of both! (DRM 12/15/05) 10:19 "Do not be afraid, O man highly esteemed," he said. "Peace! Be strong now; be strong." When he spoke to me, I was strengthened and said, "Speak, my lord, since you have given me strength." Again Daniel came into the presence of God,
Jesus Christ. 11:32 And by smooth words he will turn to godlessness those who act wickedly toward the covenant, but the people who know their God will display strength and take action. Satan the deceiver. He will succeed in keeping non-Christians from knowing the Lord Jesus by his "smooth words." The Christians will rise up and oppose Satan and all of his evil ways. In some ways this is happening now. (DRM 5/2/03) 11:33 Those who are wise will instruct many, though for a time they will fall by the sword or be burned or captured or plundered. This chapter seems to be dealing with the final war and seems to indicate that it will take place between Russia and Iran. Meanwhile, we Christians will be teaching. (DRM 5/31/89) Now I think it is Russia and Israel, and the 144,000 witnesses in Revelation will be the teachers. (DRM 7/5/2004) 11:36 Then the king will do as he pleases, and he will exalt and magnify himself above every god, and will speak monstrous things against the God of gods; and he will prosper until the indignation is finished, for that which is decreed will be done. While I may be out of context, but this sounds to me like a description of the anti-christ, even though he is called king here. The last sentence is most important: that which is decreed will be done. It's all in the Lord's hands. (DRM 7/25/2000) 11:40 And at the end time the king of the South will collide with him, and the king of the North will storm against him with chariots, with horsemen, and with many ships; and he will enter countries, overflow them, and pass through. This seems to describe the time when the nation from the North (Gog?) will invade Israel. Apparently there will be little resistance as the army passes through other countries. How are we to prepare? Know that this is true and be ready. . . (DRM 7/26/2000) 12:1 Now at that time Michael, the great prince who stands guard over the sons of your people, will arise. And there will be a time of distress such as never occurred since there was a nation until that time; and at that time your people, everyone who is found written in the book, will be rescued. Every generation of believers probably
thought they could be the last. The world has had many wars and times of
distress, but we have other signs today that the others didn't have; i.e. Israel
and the European Union. 12:2 Many of those who sleep in the dust of the ground will awake, these to everlasting life, but the others to disgrace and everlasting contempt. Combined with the end of verse one, it looks
like Daniel is describing the rapture of believers. 12:3 And those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. What a motivational verse! This tells what will happen at the end. I pray that the Lord will give me this insight so I may help lead others to righteousness. Please, Lord Jesus. (DRM 7/27/2000) This verse is a motivation for evangelism! Lately, I have wondered what good the bookmarks are doing. Only God knows. He promised that the things that we do in His name will not be void - so I continue to trust that He will use this offering. (DRM 5/3/03) 12:4 "But as for you, Daniel, conceal these words and seal up the book until the end of time; many will go back and forth, and knowledge will increase." Certainly this prophecy has been fulfilled in the past 20 years. More people travel further than ever before and we can find out nearly anything in the click of a mouse. Its more proof that the "end of time" must be near! (DRM 7/28/2000) 12:7c and as soon as they finish shattering the power of the holy people, all these events will be completed. The question in verse 6 was "How long will it be until the end of these wonders?" which is a question I think all believers ask. We want to prepare, but Jesus wants it to be a surprise, so we will ALWAYS be ready. I didn't remember the prophecy of verse 7c. Satan has always tried to get unbelievers to ignore believers and motivate them to harm us somehow. (DRM 12/17/05) 12:10 Many will be purged, purified and refined; but the wicked will act wickedly, and none of the wicked will understand, but those who have insight will understand. Most Christians "will be purged, purified and refined." While Daniel was probably writing to Jews, my life as a Christian seems to agree with the process that he has written about. I need to be refined, but also need the "insight to understand." (DRM 7/29/2000) 12:13 "As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance. While directed from God to Daniel, I believe this verse is also directed to ALL believers. This has got to be one of the most encouraging verses for eternal life in the Bible. (DRM 6/1/89)
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