Choosing Jesus: "It might get you killed, but it will definately save your life"
Daniel 6:10 “Now when Daniel learned that eh decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”
Perhaps Daniel’s world is not to far off from my world today. Is it possible to be loyal to the rulers of the world and remain faithful to God? If it is, the situation is only temporary; at some point I (you) have to make a decision about loyalty and faithfulness. At some point the rulers of the world and the living God in Jesus Christ are going to be at odds. In these moments I have a decision to make; I can either stay loyal to the rulers or be faithful to God. One decision leads to life and the other to death; however, the one that leads to death looks to lead to life and the one that leads to life looks to lead to death. What does it mean for me to go up and face Jerusalem for prayer when I know that it is forbidden? It means that the lions den is not far behind; however, that means that experiencing the saving presence of Jesus Christ is right around the corner. Rebellion in the form of faithfulness might get you killed, but it will save your life.
Oh lord, give me the strength to remain faithful to you when I am confronted by the temptation to pledge allegiance to the rulers of the world. God, I don’t like lions; especially when I am in a den and they are hungry. Following you looks like certain death and to be quite honest; I don’t know if I have the faith to do it completely. You are going to have to do a resurrecting work in my life today if you want me to remain faithful; you are going to have to pour your grace upon me in an abundant way if you expect me to remain faithful and go party with the lions instead of remaining safe here on my screened in porch. God, I need you to keep reminding me that you will protect me from the lions and that you desire most of all for me to be faithful. Lord, I can’t be faithful without you; grant me the grace to be obedient and teach me that to party with the lions is to know your saving grace. Amen!
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