What can we learn from Daniel's response to being called "highly esteemed"? The Scene of Angelic Commendation “ ‘At the beginning of your petitions an answer went out, and I have come to give it, for you are highly esteemed.’ ” (Daniel 9:23) “He said to me, ‘Daniel, you are a man highly esteemed.’ ” (Daniel 10:11) Daniel’s Immediate Reaction • 10:8 – “ I was left alone, and I saw this great vision, and no strength remained in me.” • 10:16 – “ I am overcome with anguish because of the vision, my lord, and I have no strength.” • 10:17 – “ How can my lord’s servant speak with my lord now? For my strength is gone, and no breath remains in me.” Daniel does not bask in the compliment; he falls on his face, trembles, and confesses weakness. Key Takeaways for Life and Faith • Humility Before Honor – Daniel’s first instinct is reverence, not self-congratulation (cf. James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6). – Even the highest approval from heaven drives him lower in worship. • Recognition of Total Dependence – Physical weakness parallels spiritual awareness: “Apart from Me you can do nothing” (John 15:5). – Like Paul, he could say, “By the grace of God I am what I am” (1 Corinthians 15:10). • Continual Pursuit of Understanding – After hearing he is “highly esteemed,” Daniel still asks for insight (10:12). – Esteem is not a finish line; it propels deeper searching of God’s will. • Persevering Prayer Life – The commendation comes because “from the first day that you set your heart to understand and to humble yourself … your words were heard” (10:12). – Esteem grows out of sustained, earnest intercession (Luke 18:1). • Servant Identity Maintained – Daniel speaks of himself as “servant” (10:17), echoing Luke 17:10: “We are unworthy servants; we have only done our duty.” – God’s compliments never cancel servant status. • Openness to Strengthening – The angel touches and strengthens him twice (10:16, 18). Daniel receives divine empowerment rather than mustering self-confidence. – Philippians 4:13 finds a picture here: “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” Putting It into Practice • Receive God’s affirmations gratefully, yet stay bowed low. • Let commendation fuel further prayer, not pride. • Confess weakness honestly so His strength becomes visible. • Keep the servant mindset, even when God calls you “highly esteemed.” |
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