What steps can we take to deepen our knowledge of God's Word like Daniel? Setting the Scene with Daniel 9:2 “ In the first year of his reign I, Daniel, understood from the Scriptures, according to the word of the LORD to Jeremiah the prophet, that the desolation of Jerusalem would last seventy years.” Notice What Daniel Did • He opened the sacred writings. • He searched for meaning in a specific prophecy. • He trusted the plain, historical sense of Jeremiah’s words. • He let Scripture shape his understanding of current events. Step 1 – Prioritize Daily, Focused Reading • Treat the Bible as Daniel treated Jeremiah’s scroll—essential, not optional. • Set a consistent time each day; even short, regular sessions add up. • Read entire books, not just isolated verses, to grasp context. • Keep distractions away so you can “understand from the Scriptures.” Step 2 – Compare Scripture with Scripture • Daniel matched Jeremiah’s prophecy with his own times; imitate that pattern. • Use cross-references: – Isaiah 55:11—God’s word accomplishes what He pleases. – 2 Peter 1:20–21—no prophecy is of one’s own interpretation. • Let clear passages explain difficult ones, safeguarding against error. Step 3 – Approach with Humble Prayer for Insight • Though a man of unparalleled wisdom, Daniel still sought God (Daniel 9:3). • Ask the Spirit for illumination (1 Corinthians 2:12–13). • Confess sin quickly so nothing clouds your fellowship (Psalm 66:18). Step 4 – Meditate and Memorize • Joshua 1:8 commands meditation “day and night”; Daniel practiced it in exile. • Break passages into smaller sections to memorize. • Rehearse verses during routine tasks, letting truth settle deep. Step 5 – Record Insights and Timelines • Daniel noted the seventy-year span; keep a journal to capture: – Key dates or promises (e.g., Ezra’s return fulfilled Jeremiah’s seventy years). – Personal applications. – Connections between Old and New Testament themes. Step 6 – Study in Community • Daniel shared revelations with friends (Daniel 2:17–18). • Join a Bible-centered group; sharpen one another (Proverbs 27:17). • Read aloud together, following the pattern of Nehemiah 8:8—“They read from the Book of the Law of God, translating and giving the meaning.” Step 7 – Obey Immediately • Understanding drove Daniel to confession and action (Daniel 9:4–19). • James 1:22: “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • The more we practice, the more God entrusts deeper truth (John 7:17). Step 8 – Persevere for a Lifetime • Daniel served under multiple kings yet never outgrew Scripture. • 2 Timothy 3:15–17 promises lifelong profit from God’s Word. • Keep at it through changing seasons; depth comes with years of steady digging. Living It Out Follow Daniel’s pattern—read carefully, pray humbly, compare diligently, meditate regularly, record thoughtfully, study communally, obey promptly, and persevere continually. The same God who opened Daniel’s eyes stands ready to deepen yours today. |
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