Daniel Through the Years
Do you remember reading the story of Daniel resolving to not touch the king’s food after being taken to the palace? Or Daniel being promoted because of his divine wisdom and precise interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dreams? What age do you think Daniel was when these events took place? It is important to recognize that these things happened while Daniel was in his youth (see Daniel 1:4).
While the Word does not outright mention Daniel’s life in the time after Nebuchadnezzar’s death, we know Daniel stayed ready. He walked with the LORD, and the people knew him to be a faithful man. We know this because of what happens next in the story.
In chapter 5, Daniel is called back to interpret handwriting on a wall for the king who came after Nebuchadnezzar—his son, Belshazzar. Furthermore, after the demise of this king, Daniel is thrown into a lion’s den under the reign of the next king, Darius, because of his commitment to God.
Until I recently studied this passage, I always thought of Daniel as a young man when he interpreted the handwriting on the wall and was thrown into the lion’s den. However, this is not so. Daniel 5:11 hints at his age during these events when the queen encourages the present king to enlist the help of Daniel. Daniel had been a great help to the king’s father. He had increased in age by this time, yet he was still faithful to the LORD.
God’s Different Message
A message the world communicates often is that you are only able to make a meaningful impact on the world when you are young or “in your prime.” As a result, we may feel as though we are losing purpose and meaning as we age on this earth. Have you ever felt like this? The LORD, as He always does, has a different message to speak over you.
May you be encouraged by the Word of God, through the life of Daniel, that the LORD is not done with you. As a matter of fact, each day His mercies are new (Lamentations 3:23). He wants to tell you today how much He loves you, and how He wants to use you today to proclaim His love to the world.
May you be empowered to stay ready, be dressed for action, and keep your lamps burning (Luke 12:35). Be constant in prayer, watchful and thankful (Colossians 4:2). All things are from, through, and to God, including you (Romans 11:36). You were made by Him and for Him. He wants to use you to advance His kingdom, right now. As a believer in Jesus, His Holy Spirit—the fullness of His power—dwells within you. He is your strength.
A Faithful Example
Quite recently, I was reflecting on the beautiful memories I have with my adopted grandparents, who have since passed away and are now sharing in the divine glory of the LORD. In the years of my youth, my family and I played board games and watched sports games with them, rang in the New Year with them, traveled to California and went to theme parks with them, and made many more fun memories. They spoke into my parents’ lives and served as mentors in their marriage. They spoke God’s truth to my two sisters and me. They brought the joy and love of the LORD to my family. When we first met them, they were 80 years old. I count them as my own grandparents. Friend, it is never too late to share God’s love with another.
May it not be my words but the words of the LORD that you take with you today, young or old. God is the One who made you, and He will strengthen you wherever you are right now. He has prepared good works for you to walk in (Ephesians 2:10)—ones that will impact eternity. Abide in Him, believe in Him, and see the glory of God revealed through your life of faith (John 11:40). You are His.
