What does Daniel's reaction teach us about approaching God in prayer and worship? The Setting: Daniel Before the Messenger Daniel 10:17: “How can my lord’s servant speak with my lord? For now no strength remains in me, and no breath is left in me.” In the blazing brilliance of a heavenly messenger, Daniel is literally out of strength and breath. His reaction becomes a living lesson on how finite creatures approach an infinite, holy God. Reverent Awe: Recognizing God’s Holiness • Daniel’s first instinct is not casual conversation but stunned silence. • Similar responses run through Scripture: – Moses hid his face at the burning bush (Exodus 3:6). – Isaiah cried, “Woe to me!” when he saw the Lord (Isaiah 6:5). – John fell “as though dead” at Jesus’ feet (Revelation 1:17). • Worship starts with awe; God’s presence eclipses every earthly concern. Humble Weakness: Admitting Our Frailty • “No strength… no breath” is literal for Daniel—and symbolic for us. • We approach God best when we acknowledge we bring nothing but need (Psalm 51:17). • Jesus praised those who are “poor in spirit” (Matthew 5:3); they recognize their dependence before God. Speechless Dependence: Waiting for God to Enable Prayer • Daniel wonders how he can even speak; he needs divine help to pray. • Romans 8:26 says the Spirit “intercedes for us” when words fail. • True prayer is less about eloquence, more about yielding to God’s enabling presence. Assurance in Response: God Strengthens the Weak • The very next verses show the messenger touching and strengthening Daniel (Daniel 10:18-19). • God never leaves His worshipers collapsed on the floor; He lifts them to stand in His service (Isaiah 40:29-31; 2 Corinthians 12:9). Practical Takeaways for Our Prayer Life • Begin with awe—pause, recognize whose presence you’re entering. • Confess weakness—tell God exactly where you feel breathless or powerless. • Wait quietly—let the Spirit shape words and attitudes before you speak. • Expect strengthening—God delights to revive humble hearts for continued worship and obedience. |
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