DANIEL PERSEVERED IN PRAYER

Prayer also helped Daniel to endure to the end.  Daily he turned to Jehovah God and spoke openly to him with a heart full of faith and confidence.  He knew Jehovah to be  the "Hearer of prayer." (Psalm 65:2; compare Hebrews 11:6) When Daniel's heart was burdened with grief over Israel's rebellious course, he poured out his feelings to Jehovah. (Daniel 9:4-19)  Even when Darius decreed that he alone be petitioned for 30 days, Daniel did not let that stop him from praying to Jehovah God. (Daniel 6:10)  Does it not touch our hearts to visualize  that faithful old man braving a pit full of lions rather than relinquishing the precious privilege of prayer?  There can be no doubt that  Daniel faithfully went to his end, praying fervently to Jehovah every day. 

Prayer is a simple act. We can pray virtually anytime, anywhere, aloud or silently.  Never, though, should we take this precious  privilege lightly.  The Bible links prayer with endurance, perseverance, and staying awake spiritually. (Luke 18:1; Romans 12:12; Ephesians 6:18; Colossians 4:2)  Is it not remarkable that we have a free and open channel of communication  with the highest personage in the universe? And he listens!  Recall the occasion when Daniel prayed, and Jehovah sent an  angel  in response. the angel arrived while Daniel was yet praying!  (Daniel 9:20, 21) Ours may not be the era for such angelic visits, but Jehovah has not changed.  (Malachi 3:6)  Just as he heard Daniel's prayer, he will listen to ours. And as we pray, we will draw closer to Jehovah, forming a bond that will help us to endure to the end, as Daniel did.

Next time: ENDURING AS A TEACHER OF GOD'S WORD

From the book: PAY ATTENTION TO DANIEL'S PROPHECY! 1999