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Daily Devotion

A Commitment to Obey

It's easy to rationalize making choices to please ourselves or others, but the wise choice is always God's will.

March 18, 2023

Daniel 6:5-28

We’ll all encounter times when what’s being asked of us conflicts with what God says. Perhaps the boss tells us to act dishonestly, or a friend pressures us to join her in sinful behavior. Maybe a family member urges us to lie on his behalf. Saying no could bring loss, rejection, or even the end of a relationship. On the other hand, going along with the request would break God’s commands and compromise our Christian witness.

Daniel found himself in such a predicament when officials set a trap for him—an edict prohibiting worship “to any god or human being” other than King Darius (Dan. 6:7). Daniel courageously “went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem” and prayed visibly to God, as was his habit (v. 10). For his infraction, Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den. The next morning, Darius was relieved that Daniel had been protected, and he decreed that all his subjects “must fear and reverence” the God of the Jews (v. 26).

Our responsibility is to trust and obey the Lord. Consider these biblical examples: Daniel’s faithfulness resulted in royal favor and honor to God (v. 26); Jesus’ obedience led to the cross and glorification; and Paul’s trust in Christ resulted in hardship along with fruitful service. When we obey, the consequences may vary, but two things are always the same: Obedience glorifies and pleases our Father. 

Bible in One Year: Judges 16-17 

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