Advent Week Two: Peace Day Two

Today's devotion is from guest blogger, Kris, my daughter.

Daniel 6:25-27
Then King Darius sent this message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world: “Peace and prosperity to you! I decree that everyone throughout my kingdom should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel. For he is the living God, and he will endure forever. His kingdom will never be destroyed, and his rule will never end. He rescues and saves his people; he performs miraculous signs and wonders in the heavens and on earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.”

These verses in Daniel follow the well-known story of Daniel in the lions’ den (Daniel 6:15-22). They show that King Darius, a pagan, was so impressed with Daniel’s God that he sent out a decree to the nations saying “Peace to you.” King Darius was not known as a king of peace; in fact he warred on the neighboring nations a great deal. Most historians consider King Darius the greatest, at least militarily, of all the Persian kings. He extended the empire's borders into India and Europe and fought two wars with the Greeks.

It is significant for this king to send greetings of peace and prosperity. He was so impressed by God’s greatness that he had to share it everywhere!

Often we feel overwhelmed by the lack of peace that surrounds us. There is war, rumors of more terrorist attacks, lack of job security, etc., but Daniel’s God is still the same today, and He will be as faithful to us as He was faithful to Daniel. We may feel as though we are, figuratively speaking, in a lion’s den, but God is able to save us and keep the lion’s mouth closed. When God does this, we must share it with others. Perhaps they, like King Darius, will be impressed by God. Perhaps this will help them to know that if our prayers are answered, then theirs can be answered too. God doesn’t bless us just so we can keep the blessings to ourselves. Do you have peace in your life because God is a God who answers prayer? Are you secure knowing He will protect you in these times of unrest? Then share that assurance. Share peace and prosperity with your neighbors, just like King Darius did.

Prayer: Lord, make my life an example to others of your greatness and faithfulness. May people watching me be so impressed by what you do for me that they have to find out who this God is for themselves. Help me to be brave and share the good things you do for me. Amen