WEBVTT 00:00:00.920 --> 00:00:06.379 Well friends, welcome back to church this evening, or welcome if you've joined us for the first time. 00:00:07.000 --> 00:00:12.859 We're going to be finishing off our study in the life of Daniel from the Old Testament, 00:00:12.980 --> 00:00:20.339 thinking about perhaps the most famous incident in his life, the time when he finds himself in the den of lions. 00:00:21.199 --> 00:00:25.460 But before we do that, we're going to hear from God's Word. 00:00:25.460 --> 00:00:31.679 Our call to worship comes from the book of Philippians, Paul's letter written from a prison cell. 00:00:32.719 --> 00:00:35.140 Where he says, rejoice in the Lord always. 00:00:36.039 --> 00:00:37.679 I will say it again, rejoice. 00:00:38.320 --> 00:00:40.219 Let your gentleness be evident to all. 00:00:40.880 --> 00:00:41.859 The Lord is near. 00:00:41.859 --> 00:00:52.560 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 00:00:52.560 --> 00:01:02.840 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 00:01:04.520 --> 00:01:08.879 Following Jesus doesn't mean that we never suffer. 00:01:09.000 --> 00:01:10.520 The Bible is realistic about that. 00:01:11.020 --> 00:01:14.219 But it does say in Jesus we can have a deep joy. 00:01:15.260 --> 00:01:20.180 And we can know God's presence and God's help through our suffering. 00:01:20.180 --> 00:01:25.160 And we have this invitation to pray and to seek the peace of God. 00:01:25.200 --> 00:01:30.280 And we're going to see Daniel do that when we get there in a few minutes. 00:01:30.360 --> 00:01:33.340 But before we do, we're going to sing a hymn. 00:01:33.400 --> 00:01:35.300 We're going to sing the hymn Cornerstone. 00:01:36.360 --> 00:01:42.240 And then we're very glad to have the help of a couple of our students in our service this evening. 00:01:42.239 --> 00:01:46.500 So Gideon Haffenden is going to pray. 00:01:47.039 --> 00:01:52.799 And then Grace Corley is going to read for us from Daniel chapter 6. 00:01:53.159 --> 00:01:58.399 So let's sing and then we'll pray and then we'll hear God's word. 00:01:58.400 --> 00:02:12.920 So we come to Daniel chapter 6. 00:02:13.620 --> 00:02:19.719 And I'm calling this sermon A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, 00:02:20.060 --> 00:02:23.980 borrowing the title of a Eugene Peterson book. 00:02:23.979 --> 00:02:29.219 Now I'm guessing the story is familiar to most of you. 00:02:29.519 --> 00:02:34.519 But I wonder in your mind, how old is Daniel at this stage? 00:02:35.259 --> 00:02:42.339 I did some, I wouldn't say extensive, research into the children's storybook Bibles we've got at home. 00:02:42.340 --> 00:02:50.319 But for some, the illustrators keep Daniel at basically the same age, chapters 1 to chapter 6. 00:02:50.879 --> 00:02:52.159 Maybe he gets a tiny bit older. 00:02:53.080 --> 00:02:57.860 But others more helpfully show him in old age. 00:02:57.900 --> 00:03:06.259 Because the reality is Daniel chapter 6 takes place when Daniel is in his 80s, most likely. 00:03:07.199 --> 00:03:10.740 Here is a portrait of a mature, godly believer. 00:03:10.740 --> 00:03:15.360 However, like Joseph in the book of Genesis, who we studied early in the year, 00:03:16.020 --> 00:03:20.900 he spends decades serving a foreign king in a foreign empire. 00:03:21.260 --> 00:03:28.180 But he never lost his core identity of being a child of God and belonging to God's people. 00:03:29.439 --> 00:03:35.379 And he is presented to us, Daniel is presented really as a model believer for the exiles. 00:03:35.379 --> 00:03:45.259 Because he is consistent in walking with God, in trusting in his God, in refusing to compromise. 00:03:45.879 --> 00:03:50.579 And then we remember Peter's words in the New Testament saying to the church, the suffering church, 00:03:51.219 --> 00:03:54.359 that we are living as exiles. 00:03:54.360 --> 00:04:00.240 So therefore, we can learn too from the story of Daniel. 00:04:01.000 --> 00:04:06.100 So let's begin to look for the last time at his story. 00:04:06.220 --> 00:04:11.240 We see, first of all, a life of integrity in the first five verses. 00:04:11.440 --> 00:04:18.439 Now, Daniel chapter 1 to 6 has spanned three royal courts. 00:04:18.439 --> 00:04:24.279 This is the second empire that we meet. 00:04:24.379 --> 00:04:27.699 The Babylonians have now been replaced by the Persians. 00:04:28.420 --> 00:04:36.540 And Daniel has spent some 60 plus years serving these foreign empires, foreign kings. 00:04:36.540 --> 00:04:45.400 And now we see he's one of the leading three as Darius looks to appoint 120 satraps to rule his vast empire. 00:04:45.520 --> 00:04:46.740 There's three at the head of that. 00:04:47.180 --> 00:04:53.020 And Darius aims to promote Daniel right to the top. 00:04:53.860 --> 00:04:55.520 Plans set him over the whole kingdom. 00:04:56.700 --> 00:04:57.560 And this is amazing. 00:04:57.560 --> 00:05:07.040 A career in the royal court that spans over 60 years, avoiding the long knives and the power plays within the royal court, 00:05:07.139 --> 00:05:09.560 all the battling and jockeying for position. 00:05:10.680 --> 00:05:14.120 His, too, is a life that stands up to scrutiny. 00:05:15.160 --> 00:05:21.019 You know, when we think about the background work that's done on our political candidates, 00:05:21.019 --> 00:05:25.560 the skeletons in the closet that people look for, the digging of dirt, 00:05:26.419 --> 00:05:34.740 to make sure here is a candidate for prime minister or presidency that we believe will pass scrutiny. 00:05:36.399 --> 00:05:41.459 Daniel's been there for 60 years and his work is described in glowing terms. 00:05:43.039 --> 00:05:48.919 Daniel so distinguished himself because his work is exceptional. 00:05:48.920 --> 00:05:53.860 And we need to recognise that God has gifted Daniel. 00:05:54.120 --> 00:06:00.500 God has a purpose for Daniel that through his life, God's glory will be seen in the Babylonian empire. 00:06:00.800 --> 00:06:02.300 So God gifts him. 00:06:02.379 --> 00:06:04.080 So his work is exceptional. 00:06:04.240 --> 00:06:08.040 But we also see in Daniel's character there is integrity. 00:06:09.660 --> 00:06:12.139 He is somebody who is trustworthy. 00:06:13.540 --> 00:06:15.180 He is hardworking. 00:06:16.020 --> 00:06:18.600 He has attention to detail. 00:06:19.920 --> 00:06:23.400 So his rivals conclude in verse 5, 00:06:24.160 --> 00:06:30.660 we will never find any basis for charges against this man unless it has something to do with the law of his God. 00:06:31.840 --> 00:06:37.040 So they want to get rid of Daniel, this exile, and they think of a new point of attack and that's his faith. 00:06:37.040 --> 00:06:39.000 And that's striking too. 00:06:39.000 --> 00:06:48.280 Here is Daniel working for 60 years in pagan empires, surrounded by idolatry. 00:06:49.320 --> 00:06:59.400 And he is known in this court for his faith, for honouring and walking in obedience to God and his laws. 00:06:59.399 --> 00:07:04.819 So we have here a wonderful portrait of a man who has learned how to live well as an exile. 00:07:04.819 --> 00:07:12.339 Just like the letter of Jeremiah called the exiles to, he is seeking the peace and prosperity of his city. 00:07:12.420 --> 00:07:14.639 He's working for the good of the king and for the nation. 00:07:15.519 --> 00:07:18.879 But we also see that he's working for God's glory and not his own. 00:07:19.920 --> 00:07:22.079 There is no hint of moral compromise. 00:07:22.079 --> 00:07:25.899 He's not stepping on others to get ahead. 00:07:26.439 --> 00:07:31.199 He's not squashing down his beliefs, blending in in order to get to the top. 00:07:31.199 --> 00:07:37.579 Wouldn't this be a great way for others to speak of us? 00:07:38.699 --> 00:07:45.480 Where they would recognise in us that we were a people who were looking to bless others in the quality of our work. 00:07:46.860 --> 00:07:51.319 Looking to be a blessing in how we relate to others in the workplace. 00:07:52.519 --> 00:07:58.259 Able to integrate our faith and our work in a positive way. 00:08:01.199 --> 00:08:06.620 Let me encourage you to pray for yourself as a worker. 00:08:06.759 --> 00:08:10.519 To pray for other Christians you know in their workplace. 00:08:10.659 --> 00:08:15.779 To recognise work as a key frontline mission for you. 00:08:17.360 --> 00:08:21.419 That we would be praying for each other to have wisdom and integrity. 00:08:21.419 --> 00:08:23.480 To work hard, to be a blessing. 00:08:24.180 --> 00:08:28.500 To have opportunities to bring glory to God in how we work. 00:08:28.500 --> 00:08:32.419 But recognise too there's realism here. 00:08:33.379 --> 00:08:39.039 That for the Christian the workplace may bring persecution. 00:08:40.320 --> 00:08:42.960 It may bring opposition. 00:08:44.259 --> 00:08:50.740 And so it's important for us to stand firm in our trust of God. 00:08:50.740 --> 00:09:00.960 The next part of the story sees a test of faith for Daniel. 00:09:01.720 --> 00:09:05.480 In verses 6 to 9 the trap is set. 00:09:06.180 --> 00:09:08.940 These royal officials who want to get rid of Daniel. 00:09:09.659 --> 00:09:11.799 They think well let's work on the king's pride. 00:09:11.899 --> 00:09:16.919 They come to the king and they say here's a great new law to enact. 00:09:16.919 --> 00:09:22.139 Why don't you claim the status of God for 30 days? 00:09:22.219 --> 00:09:23.639 A month of being divine. 00:09:24.659 --> 00:09:28.219 And Darius in his pride says okay let's do it. 00:09:29.459 --> 00:09:33.959 And because of that Daniel's public faith is under attack. 00:09:34.919 --> 00:09:36.839 It is conform or die. 00:09:37.759 --> 00:09:41.759 It is stop praying or face the den of lions. 00:09:41.759 --> 00:09:45.860 Now how is Daniel going to react? 00:09:47.259 --> 00:09:52.740 And here's where we see an aspect of Daniel's long obedience in the same direction. 00:09:52.899 --> 00:09:57.039 Back in chapter 1 Daniel refused the king's diet. 00:09:57.980 --> 00:10:01.159 He wanted freedom to show loyalty to God first. 00:10:01.439 --> 00:10:02.620 God most of all. 00:10:03.039 --> 00:10:05.200 Now it's with prayer. 00:10:06.139 --> 00:10:08.500 And he will not dishonour God. 00:10:08.720 --> 00:10:10.919 He will not waver in his faith. 00:10:10.919 --> 00:10:15.740 So we see when Daniel learned that the decree had been published. 00:10:16.500 --> 00:10:20.559 He went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened towards Jerusalem. 00:10:21.259 --> 00:10:23.879 Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed. 00:10:24.519 --> 00:10:27.919 Giving thanks to his God just as he had done before. 00:10:29.179 --> 00:10:30.159 Nothing changes. 00:10:31.120 --> 00:10:32.959 He still wants to honour. 00:10:33.059 --> 00:10:35.759 And there's a beautiful balance to his prayer life. 00:10:35.759 --> 00:10:39.519 Did you notice he still begins with thanksgiving. 00:10:39.519 --> 00:10:43.819 It's his relationship with God that he treasures. 00:10:43.980 --> 00:10:46.319 And that's not dependent on his circumstances. 00:10:47.039 --> 00:10:51.000 His focus is on God and the life that he enjoys from God. 00:10:51.079 --> 00:10:52.600 The salvation that he has. 00:10:53.019 --> 00:10:55.559 The place in that covenant relationship. 00:10:56.519 --> 00:10:59.759 That's what sets the tone for his prayers. 00:10:59.759 --> 00:11:04.080 In a sense it reminded me of the Lord's prayer. 00:11:04.279 --> 00:11:07.639 That model that Jesus gave to his disciples. 00:11:08.899 --> 00:11:12.200 To see first who it is that we pray to. 00:11:12.679 --> 00:11:14.519 To remember our Father in heaven. 00:11:14.659 --> 00:11:15.860 To pray for his kingdom. 00:11:16.519 --> 00:11:17.860 To recognise his holiness. 00:11:18.080 --> 00:11:20.659 To be concerned about his glory and honour. 00:11:20.659 --> 00:11:23.379 And as we have that perspective. 00:11:23.379 --> 00:11:26.399 That then helps how we pray for ourselves. 00:11:26.399 --> 00:11:28.459 How we pray about our situations. 00:11:28.459 --> 00:11:31.199 As we remember this is the God that we know. 00:11:32.139 --> 00:11:33.299 The God who is in heaven. 00:11:33.419 --> 00:11:34.139 Who is our Father. 00:11:34.259 --> 00:11:35.539 Who is building his kingdom. 00:11:35.699 --> 00:11:38.439 Who is pursuing and working out his glory. 00:11:38.440 --> 00:11:42.400 So Daniel prays with thanksgiving. 00:11:42.820 --> 00:11:45.300 And then he prays asking for help. 00:11:45.360 --> 00:11:47.740 And again we've seen this as a pattern in Daniel's life. 00:11:47.800 --> 00:11:48.800 Back in chapter 2. 00:11:49.920 --> 00:11:51.680 King Nebuchadnezzar at that time has a dream. 00:11:52.080 --> 00:11:53.260 Nobody can interpret it. 00:11:53.660 --> 00:11:55.580 He threatens to kill all the wise men. 00:11:55.900 --> 00:11:57.200 Including Daniel and his friends. 00:11:57.260 --> 00:11:58.120 What does Daniel do? 00:11:58.580 --> 00:12:00.760 He pulls them together for a prayer meeting. 00:12:01.900 --> 00:12:04.080 So that God might give them wisdom. 00:12:04.260 --> 00:12:06.900 So that their lives and the lives of the others might be spared. 00:12:06.899 --> 00:12:10.980 So here is Daniel as is his pattern. 00:12:11.879 --> 00:12:13.179 Praying three times a day. 00:12:13.240 --> 00:12:15.159 Can you imagine the temptation he was facing? 00:12:15.299 --> 00:12:19.019 Or perhaps people sort of encouraging him. 00:12:19.740 --> 00:12:21.279 In a different course of action. 00:12:21.439 --> 00:12:22.899 Think of your position Daniel. 00:12:23.799 --> 00:12:25.439 Think of the influence you have. 00:12:25.519 --> 00:12:26.259 Don't give that up. 00:12:26.679 --> 00:12:27.779 It's only 30 days. 00:12:27.840 --> 00:12:29.319 Just keep the windows closed. 00:12:30.120 --> 00:12:31.319 Just do it in private. 00:12:32.039 --> 00:12:33.019 God will understand. 00:12:34.500 --> 00:12:35.879 But what we see in Daniel. 00:12:35.879 --> 00:12:39.460 Is that where his nation had folded. 00:12:40.659 --> 00:12:42.820 Compromising and giving up on worship. 00:12:42.820 --> 00:12:44.919 Daniel holds firm. 00:12:45.860 --> 00:12:49.439 And it's in his unchanging pattern of worship. 00:12:50.720 --> 00:12:51.779 That we. 00:12:52.220 --> 00:12:53.159 That the exiles. 00:12:53.360 --> 00:12:55.539 That Babylon will have the chance to see. 00:12:56.000 --> 00:12:57.820 God's faithfulness. 00:12:58.220 --> 00:13:00.120 And God's deliverance. 00:13:00.120 --> 00:13:03.000 It's striking too. 00:13:03.000 --> 00:13:05.000 That he resists. 00:13:05.000 --> 00:13:07.120 The cultural idols. 00:13:07.519 --> 00:13:10.519 That can so often have a tight grip on our heart. 00:13:11.519 --> 00:13:15.259 Daniel wasn't driven by success. 00:13:15.899 --> 00:13:18.460 He would choose faithfulness to God over. 00:13:18.460 --> 00:13:21.320 Pursuing being number one in the kingdom. 00:13:22.200 --> 00:13:25.080 He wasn't living for that status. 00:13:25.700 --> 00:13:28.560 He was living for God saying well done. 00:13:29.040 --> 00:13:30.340 Good and faithful servant. 00:13:31.500 --> 00:13:36.160 He wasn't dominated by a drive for security. 00:13:36.240 --> 00:13:37.680 And comfort. 00:13:37.680 --> 00:13:41.080 But was willing to risk and to give his life. 00:13:41.080 --> 00:13:42.720 To honour God. 00:13:44.139 --> 00:13:45.480 For you and me. 00:13:45.600 --> 00:13:49.420 When we feel the pull of those cultural idols. 00:13:50.120 --> 00:13:53.220 In order for us to give glory to God. 00:13:53.759 --> 00:13:55.560 We will do that only. 00:13:55.559 --> 00:13:58.599 If Jesus Christ is our treasure. 00:13:59.319 --> 00:14:01.519 If he truly is our centre. 00:14:02.379 --> 00:14:04.259 If we see that knowing him. 00:14:04.839 --> 00:14:06.579 Being approved by him. 00:14:07.639 --> 00:14:11.359 Knowing that in Jesus we are adopted into the family of God. 00:14:11.879 --> 00:14:14.439 That we have treasure in heaven. 00:14:14.439 --> 00:14:16.299 And hope for eternity. 00:14:16.459 --> 00:14:18.599 Only if we see that as everything. 00:14:19.919 --> 00:14:22.059 If we see to live is Christ and to die is gain. 00:14:22.059 --> 00:14:30.139 Only then can we lay aside those idols that can strangle our faith in God. 00:14:31.739 --> 00:14:35.899 Daniel here puts me to mind of another old believer. 00:14:36.939 --> 00:14:37.699 Polycarp. 00:14:37.939 --> 00:14:39.459 The Bishop of Smyrna. 00:14:40.159 --> 00:14:42.859 In the early church. 00:14:43.859 --> 00:14:46.839 And as he was facing his own martyrdom and death. 00:14:47.719 --> 00:14:48.319 He said. 00:14:48.320 --> 00:14:50.140 In 80 and 6 years. 00:14:50.800 --> 00:14:52.340 Have I served Christ. 00:14:52.940 --> 00:14:55.520 And he has never done me any harm. 00:14:56.280 --> 00:14:57.120 How then. 00:14:57.680 --> 00:14:59.860 Could I blaspheme my king. 00:15:00.379 --> 00:15:01.300 Who saved me. 00:15:03.560 --> 00:15:06.200 Perhaps today is a good day to reflect. 00:15:06.520 --> 00:15:07.160 Honestly. 00:15:08.160 --> 00:15:09.920 What is my hope. 00:15:10.660 --> 00:15:12.100 Who is my hope. 00:15:12.800 --> 00:15:13.560 In life. 00:15:14.200 --> 00:15:15.300 And death. 00:15:15.299 --> 00:15:19.959 The story then moves on. 00:15:20.120 --> 00:15:21.759 With the focus on. 00:15:22.199 --> 00:15:24.479 The divine rescue. 00:15:25.120 --> 00:15:26.859 In verse 12 to 23. 00:15:27.039 --> 00:15:28.759 So the trap has been sprung. 00:15:29.399 --> 00:15:29.679 David. 00:15:30.019 --> 00:15:31.859 Daniel continues to pray. 00:15:32.519 --> 00:15:34.159 Daniel is clearly being hunted. 00:15:34.159 --> 00:15:36.879 Because there are men who are watching. 00:15:37.439 --> 00:15:38.679 For him to pray. 00:15:39.039 --> 00:15:40.319 They are in for the kill. 00:15:40.320 --> 00:15:42.520 And they take the message. 00:15:43.000 --> 00:15:43.480 Immediately. 00:15:44.560 --> 00:15:45.920 To Darius. 00:15:46.300 --> 00:15:47.140 They said to the king. 00:15:47.260 --> 00:15:47.620 Daniel. 00:15:47.740 --> 00:15:48.940 Who is one of the exiles. 00:15:49.000 --> 00:15:49.800 He is an outsider. 00:15:50.680 --> 00:15:51.940 Pays no attention to you. 00:15:52.000 --> 00:15:52.500 Your majesty. 00:15:52.640 --> 00:15:53.420 Or to the decree. 00:15:53.580 --> 00:15:54.440 You put in writing. 00:15:54.580 --> 00:15:55.760 He still prays. 00:15:56.180 --> 00:15:57.520 Three times a day. 00:15:57.640 --> 00:15:58.080 And perhaps. 00:15:58.220 --> 00:15:58.720 This is the point. 00:15:58.800 --> 00:16:00.000 Where Darius recognizes. 00:16:00.140 --> 00:16:00.840 He has been trapped. 00:16:00.940 --> 00:16:01.920 He had no idea. 00:16:02.600 --> 00:16:03.540 That foolish law. 00:16:03.640 --> 00:16:05.120 Was politically motivated. 00:16:05.740 --> 00:16:07.120 But he has no way out. 00:16:07.180 --> 00:16:08.100 He is distressed. 00:16:09.019 --> 00:16:10.139 He is trying to find a way. 00:16:10.240 --> 00:16:11.000 To save him. 00:16:12.019 --> 00:16:12.420 But. 00:16:12.980 --> 00:16:14.759 His officials insist. 00:16:15.500 --> 00:16:16.379 You wrote this down. 00:16:16.440 --> 00:16:17.080 According to the laws. 00:16:17.120 --> 00:16:17.879 Of the Medes and the Persons. 00:16:17.940 --> 00:16:19.360 And that law can't be broken. 00:16:19.519 --> 00:16:20.200 So Daniel here. 00:16:20.240 --> 00:16:20.680 Is facing. 00:16:21.420 --> 00:16:22.379 Certain death. 00:16:22.420 --> 00:16:22.820 And again. 00:16:22.980 --> 00:16:24.060 We think about the pattern. 00:16:24.139 --> 00:16:24.899 In the story of. 00:16:25.360 --> 00:16:26.300 The book of Daniel. 00:16:26.300 --> 00:16:27.759 Similar to chapter 3. 00:16:29.279 --> 00:16:29.700 There. 00:16:31.320 --> 00:16:32.060 Daniel's friends. 00:16:32.139 --> 00:16:33.519 Were facing the fiery furnace. 00:16:34.820 --> 00:16:35.560 Nebuchadnezzar built. 00:16:35.740 --> 00:16:36.660 A huge statue. 00:16:36.820 --> 00:16:37.920 To his own glory. 00:16:37.919 --> 00:16:39.039 Demanding people worship. 00:16:39.240 --> 00:16:39.339 And. 00:16:40.059 --> 00:16:41.919 They say no. 00:16:43.240 --> 00:16:44.199 But it's different. 00:16:44.360 --> 00:16:44.719 There. 00:16:45.259 --> 00:16:46.339 There is a refusal. 00:16:46.339 --> 00:16:47.360 To commit. 00:16:47.599 --> 00:16:48.620 The sin of idolatry. 00:16:48.959 --> 00:16:49.699 But here. 00:16:50.299 --> 00:16:51.299 Daniel is refusing. 00:16:51.459 --> 00:16:52.279 To omit. 00:16:53.099 --> 00:16:53.539 True. 00:16:54.099 --> 00:16:54.379 Worship. 00:16:56.459 --> 00:16:57.719 And maybe here. 00:16:57.799 --> 00:16:58.659 When we think about. 00:16:59.459 --> 00:17:00.299 Living out. 00:17:00.500 --> 00:17:01.539 Our Christian faith. 00:17:01.740 --> 00:17:02.360 In public. 00:17:03.500 --> 00:17:04.859 Here are the two challenges. 00:17:05.200 --> 00:17:06.059 Two sides. 00:17:06.559 --> 00:17:07.619 Two temptations. 00:17:07.619 --> 00:17:08.739 For us. 00:17:08.739 --> 00:17:09.799 On the one hand. 00:17:10.439 --> 00:17:11.139 A temptation. 00:17:11.139 --> 00:17:11.859 To follow. 00:17:12.799 --> 00:17:14.159 Sinful patterns. 00:17:14.959 --> 00:17:15.799 The values. 00:17:15.799 --> 00:17:16.399 Of the world. 00:17:16.500 --> 00:17:16.979 To pursue. 00:17:17.479 --> 00:17:18.459 What the world. 00:17:18.839 --> 00:17:19.500 Would treasure. 00:17:19.619 --> 00:17:20.099 And hold. 00:17:20.359 --> 00:17:20.839 Dearest. 00:17:20.839 --> 00:17:21.839 The other hand. 00:17:21.839 --> 00:17:22.619 The other hand. 00:17:22.619 --> 00:17:22.639 The other hand. 00:17:22.639 --> 00:17:23.559 There's that temptation. 00:17:23.559 --> 00:17:24.439 To keep faith. 00:17:24.740 --> 00:17:25.339 Private. 00:17:26.119 --> 00:17:27.199 To live. 00:17:27.679 --> 00:17:28.980 A double life. 00:17:29.879 --> 00:17:30.859 To conceal. 00:17:31.319 --> 00:17:32.319 As best as we can. 00:17:32.379 --> 00:17:34.199 Our Christian identity. 00:17:34.200 --> 00:17:38.160 And now comes. 00:17:38.160 --> 00:17:39.259 One of the mega themes. 00:17:39.259 --> 00:17:39.819 Of Daniel. 00:17:42.299 --> 00:17:43.080 Where we see. 00:17:43.160 --> 00:17:44.000 A confrontation. 00:17:44.539 --> 00:17:45.059 Between. 00:17:46.120 --> 00:17:47.039 The true God. 00:17:47.120 --> 00:17:47.580 Of Israel. 00:17:48.080 --> 00:17:48.600 And. 00:17:49.319 --> 00:17:49.759 Kings. 00:17:49.880 --> 00:17:50.319 And nations. 00:17:50.319 --> 00:17:50.900 And empires. 00:17:50.980 --> 00:17:51.720 That are opposed. 00:17:52.120 --> 00:17:52.600 To God. 00:17:52.599 --> 00:17:53.599 God. 00:17:53.599 --> 00:17:54.419 Except there's hardly any. 00:17:54.839 --> 00:17:55.339 Contest. 00:17:55.339 --> 00:17:55.980 As you would expect. 00:17:55.980 --> 00:17:56.980 The one true God. 00:17:56.980 --> 00:17:57.779 Is greater. 00:17:57.779 --> 00:17:59.419 And gains victory. 00:17:59.659 --> 00:18:00.219 Over. 00:18:00.719 --> 00:18:01.339 The false gods. 00:18:01.419 --> 00:18:01.879 And here. 00:18:02.519 --> 00:18:03.439 There's so much. 00:18:03.599 --> 00:18:04.339 Kind of irony. 00:18:04.500 --> 00:18:04.879 It's almost. 00:18:05.719 --> 00:18:06.480 Comedic. 00:18:06.480 --> 00:18:08.220 The contrast. 00:18:08.360 --> 00:18:08.920 Between. 00:18:09.519 --> 00:18:11.039 This self-appointed. 00:18:11.539 --> 00:18:12.480 Thirty day. 00:18:12.799 --> 00:18:13.279 God. 00:18:13.400 --> 00:18:13.700 King. 00:18:13.839 --> 00:18:14.360 Darius. 00:18:15.620 --> 00:18:16.200 Not really. 00:18:16.299 --> 00:18:16.799 Very divine. 00:18:16.880 --> 00:18:17.279 At all. 00:18:17.380 --> 00:18:17.700 Versus. 00:18:17.759 --> 00:18:18.599 The most high. 00:18:18.700 --> 00:18:19.019 God. 00:18:19.059 --> 00:18:19.500 Of heaven. 00:18:19.960 --> 00:18:20.500 Look at how. 00:18:20.559 --> 00:18:21.000 Darius. 00:18:21.000 --> 00:18:21.880 Is described. 00:18:22.039 --> 00:18:22.920 In verse 14. 00:18:23.980 --> 00:18:24.779 You know. 00:18:24.960 --> 00:18:25.779 We should only pray. 00:18:25.779 --> 00:18:26.220 To him. 00:18:26.339 --> 00:18:26.599 He's. 00:18:26.759 --> 00:18:27.680 He's God. 00:18:27.880 --> 00:18:28.559 For a month. 00:18:28.660 --> 00:18:29.220 But he's. 00:18:29.700 --> 00:18:30.099 Distressed. 00:18:31.920 --> 00:18:32.799 In verse. 00:18:33.759 --> 00:18:34.259 14. 00:18:34.339 --> 00:18:34.860 And 15. 00:18:35.019 --> 00:18:35.299 He's. 00:18:35.900 --> 00:18:36.420 Unable. 00:18:36.480 --> 00:18:37.039 To rescue. 00:18:37.140 --> 00:18:37.440 Daniel. 00:18:37.519 --> 00:18:38.400 Though he wants to. 00:18:39.839 --> 00:18:40.539 In verse 15. 00:18:40.599 --> 00:18:41.220 It becomes clear. 00:18:41.299 --> 00:18:42.140 He has no control. 00:18:42.240 --> 00:18:42.720 Or wisdom. 00:18:42.720 --> 00:18:43.400 In the situation. 00:18:43.400 --> 00:18:44.259 Because he's been. 00:18:44.259 --> 00:18:44.779 Tricked. 00:18:45.319 --> 00:18:46.519 By his own officials. 00:18:47.720 --> 00:18:48.700 In verse 18. 00:18:48.839 --> 00:18:49.420 Here is this. 00:18:49.980 --> 00:18:50.360 False. 00:18:50.539 --> 00:18:51.299 Self-appointed. 00:18:51.480 --> 00:18:51.759 God. 00:18:52.140 --> 00:18:52.839 Who is. 00:18:53.019 --> 00:18:53.660 Restless. 00:18:53.880 --> 00:18:54.720 He can't sleep. 00:18:54.799 --> 00:18:55.599 He can't eat. 00:18:56.099 --> 00:18:56.539 He has. 00:18:56.700 --> 00:18:57.059 Limited. 00:18:57.339 --> 00:18:57.680 Power. 00:18:58.000 --> 00:18:58.900 He cannot save. 00:18:58.980 --> 00:18:59.200 In fact. 00:18:59.259 --> 00:18:59.759 This false. 00:18:59.759 --> 00:19:00.779 God's only hope. 00:19:00.880 --> 00:19:01.579 And he's very honest. 00:19:01.579 --> 00:19:02.079 About it. 00:19:03.059 --> 00:19:04.079 May your God. 00:19:04.160 --> 00:19:04.480 Daniel. 00:19:04.940 --> 00:19:05.720 Whom you serve. 00:19:05.720 --> 00:19:07.160 Continually rescue you. 00:19:07.460 --> 00:19:08.279 I can't. 00:19:09.079 --> 00:19:09.579 Perhaps. 00:19:09.680 --> 00:19:10.299 Your God. 00:19:10.880 --> 00:19:11.360 Can. 00:19:11.779 --> 00:19:13.059 Taking the position. 00:19:13.059 --> 00:19:13.640 Of. 00:19:14.120 --> 00:19:14.579 God. 00:19:15.539 --> 00:19:16.019 Darius. 00:19:16.180 --> 00:19:16.539 Has. 00:19:17.019 --> 00:19:17.660 No peace. 00:19:18.700 --> 00:19:19.059 Whereas. 00:19:19.240 --> 00:19:19.680 Daniel. 00:19:19.920 --> 00:19:20.360 Is living. 00:19:20.559 --> 00:19:20.900 Under. 00:19:21.059 --> 00:19:21.680 The rule. 00:19:21.759 --> 00:19:22.319 Of God. 00:19:22.839 --> 00:19:23.319 Living. 00:19:23.500 --> 00:19:23.860 As. 00:19:24.180 --> 00:19:24.519 He is. 00:19:24.600 --> 00:19:25.299 Supposed to. 00:19:25.420 --> 00:19:25.680 And as. 00:19:25.799 --> 00:19:26.120 We are. 00:19:26.160 --> 00:19:26.759 Supposed to. 00:19:27.259 --> 00:19:27.600 And he. 00:19:27.660 --> 00:19:28.059 By contrast. 00:19:28.180 --> 00:19:28.380 He is. 00:19:28.460 --> 00:19:29.140 Perfect peace. 00:19:29.140 --> 00:19:30.180 So. 00:19:30.180 --> 00:19:30.460 Daniel. 00:19:30.500 --> 00:19:30.660 Gets. 00:19:30.660 --> 00:19:30.940 Thrown. 00:19:30.980 --> 00:19:31.120 Into. 00:19:31.120 --> 00:19:32.040 The lion's den. 00:19:32.480 --> 00:19:32.900 It gets. 00:19:32.900 --> 00:19:33.860 All sealed up. 00:19:33.980 --> 00:19:34.420 For the night. 00:19:34.940 --> 00:19:35.759 First light of dawn. 00:19:35.820 --> 00:19:36.180 The king. 00:19:36.259 --> 00:19:37.259 Comes back. 00:19:37.900 --> 00:19:38.140 Daniel. 00:19:38.240 --> 00:19:39.160 Serving the living God. 00:19:39.240 --> 00:19:39.960 Has your God. 00:19:40.000 --> 00:19:40.460 Whom you serve. 00:19:40.540 --> 00:19:40.980 Continually. 00:19:40.980 --> 00:19:42.240 Been able to rescue you. 00:19:42.320 --> 00:19:43.040 From the lions. 00:19:44.340 --> 00:19:45.180 And what do we discover? 00:19:45.259 --> 00:19:45.660 We discover. 00:19:45.800 --> 00:19:46.280 Daniel. 00:19:47.020 --> 00:19:47.920 Has been sleeping. 00:19:48.220 --> 00:19:48.580 Peacefully. 00:19:48.660 --> 00:19:49.420 Among the lions. 00:19:49.480 --> 00:19:50.620 Maybe the children's storybook. 00:19:50.660 --> 00:19:50.920 Bibles. 00:19:51.000 --> 00:19:51.940 Have got it right there. 00:19:52.040 --> 00:19:52.180 That. 00:19:52.620 --> 00:19:53.160 The angel. 00:19:53.300 --> 00:19:54.080 Has so protected. 00:19:54.220 --> 00:19:54.500 Daniel. 00:19:54.580 --> 00:19:55.340 He's able to. 00:19:55.880 --> 00:19:56.300 Sort of. 00:19:56.420 --> 00:19:56.960 Snuggle up. 00:19:57.020 --> 00:19:57.600 To the lions. 00:19:57.600 --> 00:19:58.280 For warmth. 00:19:58.279 --> 00:20:00.559 What does he say? 00:20:01.480 --> 00:20:02.399 My God. 00:20:02.700 --> 00:20:03.440 Sent his angel. 00:20:03.559 --> 00:20:05.460 And he shut the mouth of the lions. 00:20:06.180 --> 00:20:06.700 God. 00:20:06.859 --> 00:20:07.299 Has. 00:20:07.539 --> 00:20:08.019 Saved. 00:20:08.940 --> 00:20:10.139 They have not hurt me. 00:20:10.180 --> 00:20:11.339 Because I was found innocent. 00:20:11.339 --> 00:20:12.359 In God's sight. 00:20:13.220 --> 00:20:14.460 God has judged him. 00:20:14.539 --> 00:20:16.279 And God has vindicated him. 00:20:16.599 --> 00:20:17.660 And the conclusion. 00:20:18.220 --> 00:20:19.119 Of our author. 00:20:19.319 --> 00:20:19.779 Is this. 00:20:20.259 --> 00:20:21.000 No wound. 00:20:21.079 --> 00:20:22.259 Was found on him. 00:20:22.720 --> 00:20:23.339 On Daniel. 00:20:23.879 --> 00:20:25.319 Because he trusted in God. 00:20:26.180 --> 00:20:27.539 Daniel survives. 00:20:27.539 --> 00:20:29.819 Because he honours God. 00:20:30.319 --> 00:20:32.399 And so God has honoured him. 00:20:33.599 --> 00:20:34.779 Now what can we learn. 00:20:35.720 --> 00:20:38.000 As we think about this part of the story. 00:20:38.539 --> 00:20:41.440 We recognise that life as an exile. 00:20:42.700 --> 00:20:44.779 Life as one of God's people. 00:20:45.019 --> 00:20:46.740 Can be dangerous. 00:20:46.819 --> 00:20:49.039 Jesus said in this world you'll have trouble. 00:20:49.440 --> 00:20:51.200 If they hated me they'll hate you. 00:20:51.200 --> 00:20:53.960 We will almost certainly face opposition. 00:20:54.259 --> 00:20:54.480 But. 00:20:55.319 --> 00:20:57.039 We can never be hurt. 00:20:57.240 --> 00:20:57.759 Beyond. 00:20:59.019 --> 00:21:00.080 God's permission. 00:21:01.220 --> 00:21:03.519 And we need to recognise that God does allow. 00:21:04.059 --> 00:21:04.539 Suffering. 00:21:06.480 --> 00:21:07.620 In all of that. 00:21:07.819 --> 00:21:10.380 The Lord is our true judge. 00:21:11.120 --> 00:21:12.880 And we are called to live. 00:21:13.259 --> 00:21:14.100 For his. 00:21:14.740 --> 00:21:15.140 Final. 00:21:15.620 --> 00:21:16.059 Verdict. 00:21:16.059 --> 00:21:18.379 It's his approval. 00:21:19.079 --> 00:21:19.519 We want. 00:21:21.220 --> 00:21:22.399 Daniel 6. 00:21:23.500 --> 00:21:24.599 Anticipates for us. 00:21:25.899 --> 00:21:26.859 Future judgment. 00:21:27.379 --> 00:21:28.419 On the day of the Lord. 00:21:28.559 --> 00:21:30.000 Because when we look around church history. 00:21:30.099 --> 00:21:31.279 When we look around the world today. 00:21:31.419 --> 00:21:33.159 Maybe even if we think about our own experience. 00:21:34.259 --> 00:21:35.679 Martyrs still die. 00:21:37.579 --> 00:21:40.639 There is a church that is fiercely persecuted. 00:21:40.639 --> 00:21:42.279 In many parts of the world. 00:21:42.279 --> 00:21:45.079 There is a church that is not always relief. 00:21:46.639 --> 00:21:48.819 So it's not as simple as to say. 00:21:49.279 --> 00:21:50.579 Trust in God. 00:21:50.839 --> 00:21:52.259 And we will always be delivered. 00:21:53.240 --> 00:21:54.579 But it is saying. 00:21:54.980 --> 00:21:55.700 Trust God. 00:21:55.899 --> 00:21:57.240 And in the end. 00:21:58.039 --> 00:22:00.259 God will give a positive verdict. 00:22:01.119 --> 00:22:02.940 On the life of those who are trusting in Jesus. 00:22:04.819 --> 00:22:05.420 So. 00:22:05.720 --> 00:22:07.200 Knowing that reality. 00:22:07.420 --> 00:22:09.460 What is the hope for the Christian? 00:22:09.599 --> 00:22:11.139 Where do we find hope? 00:22:11.140 --> 00:22:12.700 As we suffer. 00:22:13.840 --> 00:22:14.720 Maybe today. 00:22:14.820 --> 00:22:16.120 And we think about suffering today. 00:22:16.220 --> 00:22:17.780 How do we find hope? 00:22:18.820 --> 00:22:20.720 Well we need to look back. 00:22:21.780 --> 00:22:23.460 And we need to recognise. 00:22:24.040 --> 00:22:25.120 Jesus our saviour. 00:22:25.200 --> 00:22:26.980 Who enters into a world of suffering. 00:22:27.120 --> 00:22:28.440 And endures suffering. 00:22:28.580 --> 00:22:29.500 And faces death. 00:22:29.620 --> 00:22:33.020 Jesus goes into his lion's den for us. 00:22:33.020 --> 00:22:36.520 And now Jesus is in suffering and trials. 00:22:36.759 --> 00:22:37.560 With us. 00:22:37.640 --> 00:22:39.040 He doesn't leave us on our own. 00:22:39.039 --> 00:22:40.240 So we look back. 00:22:40.940 --> 00:22:43.680 And we know that God loves us. 00:22:43.879 --> 00:22:45.159 Even when we suffer. 00:22:46.259 --> 00:22:47.879 But we also look forward. 00:22:48.779 --> 00:22:49.960 We look forward. 00:22:50.519 --> 00:22:52.639 With hope to the resurrection. 00:22:53.180 --> 00:22:54.460 And glory to come. 00:22:55.019 --> 00:22:56.379 Eternal life to come. 00:22:56.420 --> 00:22:59.059 When death will be swallowed up in victory. 00:22:59.059 --> 00:23:01.319 We look and we see. 00:23:01.319 --> 00:23:03.619 That Jesus was raised to glory. 00:23:03.740 --> 00:23:05.139 And as it was with him. 00:23:05.279 --> 00:23:06.200 So we too. 00:23:06.379 --> 00:23:07.700 Will be raised to glory. 00:23:07.819 --> 00:23:08.700 For trusting in him. 00:23:09.579 --> 00:23:10.720 So we look back. 00:23:10.819 --> 00:23:11.819 To see what Jesus has done. 00:23:11.899 --> 00:23:12.819 We look ahead. 00:23:13.259 --> 00:23:14.299 To our destiny. 00:23:14.399 --> 00:23:15.399 Our future with Jesus. 00:23:15.539 --> 00:23:16.579 And we look in. 00:23:17.359 --> 00:23:18.240 To the gospel. 00:23:19.079 --> 00:23:20.679 To keep reminding ourselves. 00:23:20.679 --> 00:23:21.440 Of the love. 00:23:21.500 --> 00:23:22.319 And the compassion. 00:23:22.500 --> 00:23:23.240 And the mercy. 00:23:23.679 --> 00:23:24.440 Of God. 00:23:24.839 --> 00:23:25.539 Through Jesus. 00:23:25.539 --> 00:23:27.619 And by the spirit. 00:23:29.899 --> 00:23:31.440 And the last thing we see. 00:23:31.779 --> 00:23:32.859 In Daniel's history. 00:23:33.180 --> 00:23:34.379 Is a life. 00:23:34.599 --> 00:23:35.659 That is honoured. 00:23:36.339 --> 00:23:37.859 Here is a final scene. 00:23:38.519 --> 00:23:40.799 In Daniel's history. 00:23:40.879 --> 00:23:42.039 As we're presented with it. 00:23:42.139 --> 00:23:43.240 And in verse 28. 00:23:43.359 --> 00:23:43.720 We're told. 00:23:43.879 --> 00:23:44.539 Daniel prospered. 00:23:45.740 --> 00:23:47.159 During the reign of Darius. 00:23:47.599 --> 00:23:49.700 And the reign of Cyrus. 00:23:49.819 --> 00:23:51.619 The Lord prospered him. 00:23:51.619 --> 00:23:53.399 He had been raised up. 00:23:53.719 --> 00:23:54.899 And he had been honoured. 00:23:55.559 --> 00:23:56.279 And he is a man. 00:23:56.379 --> 00:23:57.939 Who lived that long walk. 00:23:57.979 --> 00:23:58.500 Of obedience. 00:23:59.139 --> 00:24:00.979 In the same direction. 00:24:02.539 --> 00:24:03.339 His enemies. 00:24:03.419 --> 00:24:04.459 Who tried to bring him down. 00:24:04.559 --> 00:24:05.459 In verse 24. 00:24:06.119 --> 00:24:08.299 They face Darius's punishment. 00:24:10.879 --> 00:24:11.799 Just as we've seen. 00:24:11.899 --> 00:24:12.879 In every chapter. 00:24:13.099 --> 00:24:13.759 So far. 00:24:15.099 --> 00:24:16.339 It concludes. 00:24:16.439 --> 00:24:18.119 With another pagan king. 00:24:18.699 --> 00:24:20.199 Praising Daniel's God. 00:24:20.200 --> 00:24:21.600 Another open letter. 00:24:21.700 --> 00:24:23.059 Goes out around the empire. 00:24:23.480 --> 00:24:24.819 There's only one true God. 00:24:24.900 --> 00:24:25.380 And guess what? 00:24:25.400 --> 00:24:26.039 It's not me. 00:24:27.400 --> 00:24:28.200 Darius recognises. 00:24:29.380 --> 00:24:30.100 Daniel's God. 00:24:30.160 --> 00:24:30.980 Is the living God. 00:24:31.100 --> 00:24:32.120 He endures forever. 00:24:32.259 --> 00:24:34.200 His kingdom endures forever. 00:24:34.500 --> 00:24:35.819 He does powerful works. 00:24:35.960 --> 00:24:36.660 He is the God. 00:24:36.720 --> 00:24:38.279 Who saves and rescues. 00:24:39.000 --> 00:24:40.259 And so we see that. 00:24:40.660 --> 00:24:42.019 Daniel's life story. 00:24:42.140 --> 00:24:43.700 Provides a unique way. 00:24:44.200 --> 00:24:45.120 For God's victory. 00:24:45.120 --> 00:24:47.220 And God's rule over empires. 00:24:47.620 --> 00:24:48.120 Against opposition. 00:24:48.119 --> 00:24:50.399 Opposition to be seen. 00:24:52.939 --> 00:24:54.279 Because of his faith. 00:24:55.159 --> 00:24:56.139 Because of his obedience. 00:24:56.739 --> 00:24:58.500 In Hebrews 11 and verse 6. 00:24:59.279 --> 00:25:00.979 We read that without faith. 00:25:01.439 --> 00:25:03.439 It is impossible to please God. 00:25:04.079 --> 00:25:05.959 Because anyone who comes to him. 00:25:06.219 --> 00:25:07.899 Must believe that he exists. 00:25:08.559 --> 00:25:09.879 And that he rewards those. 00:25:09.979 --> 00:25:11.219 Who earnestly seek him. 00:25:11.799 --> 00:25:12.479 That's Daniel. 00:25:12.559 --> 00:25:13.899 And that's Daniel's faith. 00:25:13.900 --> 00:25:17.519 It's a faith that allowed the greatness of God to be seen. 00:25:18.540 --> 00:25:20.800 It's a pattern for us as exiles. 00:25:21.420 --> 00:25:23.280 He lived knowing that God is there. 00:25:23.380 --> 00:25:25.560 And he lived for God's reward. 00:25:26.240 --> 00:25:28.400 Not any reward that the world could offer. 00:25:29.160 --> 00:25:31.060 And that's how we are called to live. 00:25:31.640 --> 00:25:34.280 To live that long walk of obedience. 00:25:34.720 --> 00:25:35.880 In the same direction. 00:25:36.500 --> 00:25:37.400 For the glory of God. 00:25:37.460 --> 00:25:38.680 And the good of others. 00:25:38.680 --> 00:25:42.340 So Daniel gives us a wonderful pattern. 00:25:42.480 --> 00:25:44.960 But he also presents a shadow. 00:25:45.580 --> 00:25:47.880 Of a greater than Daniel who was to come. 00:25:48.600 --> 00:25:50.019 He prepares the way for Jesus. 00:25:50.400 --> 00:25:51.140 Jesus too. 00:25:51.980 --> 00:25:53.980 Would be falsely accused. 00:25:54.400 --> 00:25:55.100 By enemies. 00:25:56.240 --> 00:25:58.299 He too would be condemned. 00:25:59.580 --> 00:26:02.039 He also would be cast into darkness. 00:26:02.039 --> 00:26:04.720 Not the darkness of a lion's den. 00:26:04.799 --> 00:26:09.180 But the darkness of facing God's anger against sin. 00:26:09.680 --> 00:26:10.759 There on the cross. 00:26:10.819 --> 00:26:14.059 As he became the sin bearer of the world. 00:26:14.700 --> 00:26:16.119 Doing that for us. 00:26:17.000 --> 00:26:19.940 For all those times when we compromise with our faith. 00:26:20.740 --> 00:26:24.039 For all of those times where we fail to speak up for God. 00:26:24.079 --> 00:26:25.980 Or where we fail to live to honour him. 00:26:25.980 --> 00:26:28.900 But praise God. 00:26:29.279 --> 00:26:32.160 There was no sin in Jesus. 00:26:33.360 --> 00:26:35.779 So death had no claim on him. 00:26:35.920 --> 00:26:37.539 Death had no hold of him. 00:26:38.160 --> 00:26:39.259 And three days later. 00:26:39.360 --> 00:26:41.860 Jesus rose from the dead. 00:26:43.019 --> 00:26:44.920 Risen by the power of God. 00:26:45.480 --> 00:26:47.640 God's final verdict on Jesus. 00:26:47.759 --> 00:26:50.900 That he was satisfied with that sacrifice. 00:26:50.900 --> 00:26:56.100 He is vindicated, honoured and glorified by his father. 00:26:56.620 --> 00:26:59.880 A verdict that we share as his people. 00:27:01.200 --> 00:27:04.920 So we are called in the story of Daniel. 00:27:06.340 --> 00:27:07.759 And by the story of Jesus. 00:27:08.240 --> 00:27:09.980 To trust Jesus. 00:27:11.120 --> 00:27:12.759 To walk by faith. 00:27:13.640 --> 00:27:17.180 To make that long walk of obedience ourselves. 00:27:17.180 --> 00:27:22.299 Now let's sing. 00:27:23.400 --> 00:27:26.400 Let's sing praise to God. 00:27:26.519 --> 00:27:27.360 Our King God. 00:27:27.460 --> 00:27:28.320 Our great hope. 00:27:28.820 --> 00:27:31.740 We are going to sing Psalm 96 verses 1 to 10. 00:27:32.080 --> 00:27:33.380 And then we are going to sing the hymn. 00:27:33.900 --> 00:27:37.380 Christ our hope in life and death. 00:27:41.220 --> 00:27:42.900 And let's pray together. 00:27:42.900 --> 00:27:48.900 Father we are so thankful for the example of Daniel. 00:27:49.480 --> 00:27:54.840 Thank you for his consistent, prayerful life of faith. 00:27:55.280 --> 00:27:57.300 Seeking to be a blessing to others. 00:27:57.420 --> 00:28:00.400 Working hard and working well for your glory. 00:28:00.540 --> 00:28:02.080 And for the good of those around him. 00:28:02.460 --> 00:28:04.940 Thank you for his refusal to compromise. 00:28:05.660 --> 00:28:07.660 As he looked to you. 00:28:08.080 --> 00:28:09.460 And to your reward. 00:28:09.460 --> 00:28:15.960 And we pray that you would so fill our hearts and minds with the Lord Jesus. 00:28:16.779 --> 00:28:18.259 To make him our treasure. 00:28:18.980 --> 00:28:21.380 That we would be able to do likewise. 00:28:21.740 --> 00:28:25.259 Please use us this week in whatever we have to do. 00:28:25.840 --> 00:28:27.799 Help us to do it for your glory. 00:28:28.420 --> 00:28:30.799 And for the sake of the people around us. 00:28:31.299 --> 00:28:32.779 In Jesus name we pray. 00:28:33.579 --> 00:28:33.940 Amen. 00:28:33.940 --> 00:28:38.400 So just to remind you that there is a Monday night prayer. 00:28:39.120 --> 00:28:44.000 And our community groups meet again this coming Wednesday. 00:28:44.580 --> 00:28:45.500 Okay, take care. 00:28:45.500 --> 00:28:45.559 Thank you.