My God Sent His Angel

"So the king gave the command, and they brought Daniel and cast him into the den of lions. But the king spoke, saying to Daniel, 'Your God, whom you serve continually, He will deliver you...' Then the king arose very early in the morning and went in haste to the den of lions. And when he came to the den, he cried out with a lamenting voice to Daniel. The king spoke, saying to Daniel, "Daniel, servant of the Living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?' Then Daniel said to the king, 'O king, live forever! 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: 16,19-22)

Many of us cut our teeth on this bible story - Daniel and the Lions' Den.

What a marvelous story of deliverance!
What a tremendous example of God's power!
Indeed!

As I studied this passage, a cross-reference caused me to consider how this beloved bible story translates to our lives today. The cross-reference is 2 Timothy 4:17, "But the Lord stood with me (Paul) and strengthened me, so that the message might be preached fully through me, and that all the Gentiles might hear. Also I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion."

Interesting, isn't it? Who knew?!

Biblical scholars believe that Paul, most likely, is not referring to an actual lion, but is actually referring to Satan. 1 Peter 5:8 reads, "Be self-controlled, be vigilant (watchful); because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour."

We are foolish if we do not consider the works of the enemy. We are clearly admonished by God's Word to be aware of his schemes.

But, how wonderful that God is faithful to deliver us.

Did you notice another component that was shared between Daniel's story and Paul's? The Angel of the Lord was with both of them. Daniel said, "My God sent His Angel and shut the lions' mouths..." Paul said, "But the Lord stood with me and strengthened me..."

"My God sent His Angel..."
"The Lord stood with me and strengthened me..."
Praise His Name!

Child, the Lord will never leave us nor forsake us. He is faithful to save, to deliver us from the mouth of the lion.

But, you must call upon His Name.

Lord, I love how Your Presence is always with us to strengthen us, to deliver us, to oppose the work of the enemy. Thank You. I know that nothing is too difficult for You. I fully believe that, with You, all things are possible. And for that, Lord, I am grateful. Blessed be the Name of the Lord!