"For whatever things were written before were written for our learning, that we through the patience and comfort of the Scriptures might have hope." (Romans 15:4) The Old Testament provides many wonderful principles lessons. Let us examine the story in Daniel 6-Daniel and the Lion's Den.
Faithful example. "Then this Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king gave thought to setting him over the whole realm." (Daniel 6:3) Due to Judah's disobedience, Daniel and His Jewish brethren were in captivity in Babylon. Yet, Daniel continued to exhibit a character of faithfulness. His work ethic during the time the Jews were under Babylonian and Mede/Persian rule was exceptional. Because of this, God blessed him and those in power placed him in positions of high authority.
Uncompromising faith. "Then these men said, 'We shall not find any charge against this Daniel unless we find it against him concerning the law of his God.'" (Daniel 6:5) Daniel's enemies were examining his life and looking for some kind of "skeleton" in his closet. Finding none, they knew if they were to have any success in finding a way to remove Daniel from power, it would have to be concerning his faith and relationship with God. They knew it was unlikely that Daniel would compromise his faith in God. Daniel's example presented them with an opportunity to destroy him-or so they surmised.
Loyal to God . "Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went home. And in his upper room, with his windows open toward Jerusalem, he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom since early days." (Daniel 6:10) Daniel knew the decree had been signed, and he knew the penalty to be enforced on those who disobeyed. Yet, Daniel did not waver from his commitment first to God, and then to the king. God must come first and Daniel knew it, but so did his enemies!
Trusted God. "My God sent His angel and shut the lions' mouths, so that they have not hurt me, because I was found innocent before Him; and also, O king, I have done no wrong before you." (Daniel 6:22) When reading this story, we should remember that God did not assure Daniel he would not be eaten by the lions. He went to the lions' den fully trusting that whatever happened would be God's will. Notice that, despite the false charges made by the other officials, Daniel assured the king he had done him no wrong. The only reason Daniel was in trouble was the jealousy of the evil men who were seeking a way to avoid being under his rule !
Today, we need men and women who are more like Daniel of old, who have unwavering trust and faith in God, no matter what happens. Our loyalty to God must not just be spoken loyalty; it must manifest itself by unwavering faith!