Scripture to Read: Daniel 2:12–15
Nebuchadnezzar was done with his so-called wise men, for we read in Daniel 2:12–13 that Nebuchadnezzar “became indignant and very furious and gave orders to destroy all the wise men of Babylon.” Daniel and his friends’ lives were in jeopardy, but God was at work. God had prepared Daniel in Daniel 1 for the events God knew Daniel would face in Daniel 2. God uses our tests and trials to grow our faith in Him (James 1:2–4). What we face may seem overwhelming, but God tells us in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that what seems huge is not as big as we think. We just need to cling to Him and follow Him, and He’ll lead us in His way so we can endure it. God used this trial in Daniel and his friends’ lives. We read in Daniel 2:14–15, "Then Daniel replied with discretion and discernment to Arioch, the captain of the king’s bodyguard, who had gone forth to slay the wise men of Babylon; 15 he said to Arioch, the king’s commander, “For what reason is the decree from the king so urgent?” Then Arioch informed Daniel about the matter." Daniel reacted “with discretion and discernment.” When we face tests and trials, we must act the same way. God often uses trials to show us our weaknesses. We might be quick to doubt God or hit the panic button, but Daniel was calm. This 17-year-old replied, “with discretion and discernment.” God reminds us in James 1:19, …everyone must be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger. Be ready to obey God.
Challenge & Application
• When we know God’s promise in 1 Corinthians 10:13, why do we still get overwhelmed by tests and temptations?
• We know at age 17, Daniel responded “with discretion and discernment.” How can you learn to do the same?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!