At his banquet, the king of Babylon brought out Israel’s stolen golden goblets so all could gloat in their luxury and conquest. God’s finger appeared on the wall to mysteriously inform Belshazzar that his kingdom was doomed. Daniel courageously interpreted the handwriting with no apparent fear for his own life. He was rewarded.

On another occasion, his enemies tricked the king into making a law that prayers could not be made to anyone but the king. Again, Daniel displayed great courage and trust when he continued his prayer devotion to God. He valued his relationship with God over any penalty for being faithful to it. God saved him from death in the Lion’s den.

PRAYER: Father, let Your Spirit rise up within us to be bold witnesses for You. Regardless of society’s bent, we will give our full allegiance and trust to Your eternal kingdom. Preserve us, Lord.

READING: Daniel 5,6