How can we support others facing trials, as the king did for Daniel? Setting the Scene • Daniel has been thrown into the lions’ den for faithfully praying to God. • Daniel 6:18: “Then the king returned to his palace and spent the night fasting. No entertainment was brought before him, and sleep fled from him.” • Though a pagan ruler, King Darius responds with genuine concern and solidarity—an example worth imitating. What the King Actually Did • He fasted—choosing personal deprivation to focus on Daniel’s plight. • He refused distraction—no entertainment to numb the ache. • He lost sleep—demonstrating deep, persistent concern. • He rose early (v. 19) and hurried to the den—showing expectant hope for Daniel’s deliverance. Timeless Principles for Supporting Others in Trials 1. Enter their burden. – Galatians 6:2, “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” – Romans 12:15, “Rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep.” 2. Fast and pray earnestly. – Ezra 8:23 shows God responding to fasting prayer. – James 5:16 highlights the powerful working of righteous prayer. 3. Remove distractions to stay focused. – Psalm 46:10, “Be still, and know that I am God.” – Turning off entertainment mirrors Darius’s choice and keeps the heart tender. 4. Maintain expectant faith. – Darius hurried to the den, believing deliverance was possible. – Hebrews 11:6 reminds that God rewards those who seek Him. 5. Use influence for good. – The king had decreed Daniel’s sentence, yet afterward he leveraged his authority to celebrate God’s rescue (Daniel 6:26-27). – Proverbs 31:8-9 calls us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.” Practical Ways to Live This Out Today • Set aside a meal—or a day—to fast for a friend in crisis. • Send Scripture-saturated encouragement (Psalm 34:17-19; Isaiah 41:10). • Silence entertainment, news feeds, and social media for a season, devoting that time to intercession. • Visit, call, or text at dawn—or any early hour—to show you are awake to their need. • Rally others to pray, giving specific updates so they can intercede intelligently. • Advocate: write a letter, make a call, or accompany them to appointments or hearings. Assurance from God’s Word • 2 Corinthians 1:3-4—God comforts us so we can comfort others. • Psalm 40:1-2—He hears our cry and lifts us from the pit. • Hebrews 13:3—Remember the imprisoned as though bound with them. Encouragement to Persevere Stand with brothers and sisters the way King Darius stood with Daniel—fasting, praying, refusing distraction, exercising faith, and using every ounce of influence for their good. Scripture assures that such solidarity honors God, strengthens the afflicted, and often becomes the means by which He displays His saving power. |
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