Introduction

I will be doing a series from the Book of Daniel. I believe it will be very useful to us at this time of a global health crisis.

Daniel & his friends/colleagues were caught up in a crisis of sorts back in their own day: the loss of their freedom & had to live & flourish under a different atmosphere.

Key Points from Chapter 10

• Cyrus was the king of Persia at the time.
• On the 24th of the first month Daniel was by the side of the great river Hiddekel. There he saw a man clothed in linen; whose loins were girded with pure gold of Uphaz.
• There, Daniel alone saw another vision. The others who were there did not see it, but they felt an earthquake and fled to safety.
• Daniel felt weak but a hand touched him, set him on his knees and palms and a being spoke to him. He addressed Daniel and told him he was sent to him.
• He strengthened Daniel and told about things that were to come far in the future, especially concerning his people. That which was inscribed in the writing of truth. It is amazing that God has already written down what will happen in the future.
• Be sure to read the whole of chapter 10 in the Bible, to fully understand what transpired and to gain your own perspective.

ConcludingThoughts

• Daniel had stayed consistent in service across the reigns of several kings. This means his stay in captivity was extensive, yet he continued to serve and stand, steadfastly.
• Verse 12 is notable: “…from the first day that thou didst set thy heart to understand, and to humble thyself before thy God, thy words were heard: and I am come for thy words’ sake.” [ASV]. Daniel decided to obtain understanding, and to be humble in his conduct. This was a conscious decision. Decisions like this compound over time, leading to the build-up of a strong and sound character.
• The answer to Daniel’s prayers had been granted but the angel from God experienced a delay. While this delay was specific to this case, it is not uncommon for us to experience delays regarding things we have prayed about or requested from God. We are to stay steadfast in faith. I once heard a preacher, Reverend Adegboye describe this as the “mean time”.

Note

• ASV: American Standard Version.

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O.J