How can we emulate the king's concern for Daniel in our daily lives?

Concern on Display

Daniel 6:18 — “Then the king went to his palace and spent the night fasting; no entertainment was brought before him, and sleep fled from him.”

What the king did:

- He fasted.

- He set aside distractions.

- He lost sleep over Daniel’s danger.

Imitating This Attitude

- Choose compassion over comfort

- Philippians 2:4 — “Let each of you look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.”

- Skip a meal or leisure activity to devote time to someone in trouble.

- Refuse to be entertained by others’ suffering

- Romans 12:15 — “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.”

- Silence media or hobbies when a friend needs you; be present.

- Let concern disturb your routine

- 1 Corinthians 12:26 — “If one member suffers, all suffer together.”

- Allow inconvenience; drive across town, stay up late, or adjust plans.

Moving Beyond Feelings to Action

- Visit or call early, like the king’s dawn visit to the lions’ den (Daniel 6:19).

- Offer practical help: meals, childcare, errands (James 2:15-16).

- Share burdens in prayer and tangible support (Galatians 6:2).

Trusting God While We Care

- The king hoped for divine rescue (Daniel 6:16).

- We express concern yet rely on God’s power (Psalm 55:22).

- Our love points others to Christ (John 13:34-35).

Daily Checklist

- Ask, “Whose hardship will interrupt my comfort today?”

- Set a reminder to pray and act.

- Follow through until the need is met or relief comes.