Right by Faith

O. T. #1992 "Right by Faith"

July 29. 2021

Daniel 6

LET IT GLOW

There was a new king in the land. The Medes and Persians conquered Babylon and established Darius' authority by changing the government. He placed 120 princes throughout the new kingdom, with 3 presidents over them. Daniel was promoted to chief overseer, president, over the whole realm. Those administrators were to protect the king's interests. Since Daniel was more  capable than all the other high officers, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.

What qualities did Daniel have?

• He had age on his side, for by this time Daniel was in his 80's. He had seen a lot, good and bad.
• He was experienced. Nebuchadnezzar had promoted Daniel after explaining the dream about the statue the king had.
• He was completely trustworthy, even while living among a heathen nation and people.
• Daniel is described by the king Darius as having an excellent spirit. (verse 3)
• Darius was planning to make Daniel his number-one administrator over the entire kingdom. (verse 3)

What does our track record say about us? Do we have a good reputation as a Christian, upholding biblical principles in our life? Are we trustworthy? Can our employer trust us to give a full day's work or waste time? As an employer, are we being  faithful to give to our employees or do we demand too much?

LET IT GROW

Again, jealousy and envy raise their ugly heads. The other presidents and princes began searching for some occasion (silliness; folly; foolishness) in Daniel. However, there was no ungodly deed or foolish action found in Daniel. He was handling government affairs without faults. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. No fault or error was found concerning Daniel. (verse 4)

Daniel is included with Noah and Job as having outstanding godly living as Ezekiel 14:14 said. Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it (sinful land), they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord God.

The Tony Evans Bible Commentary explains:

Those 3 Old Testament mean accomplished much for God by faith. They were 3 of the greatest examples  of faith and godly favor, nevertheless, their righteousness could not protect such a wicked land. It is by the righteousness of Christ that sinners are saved. Anyone who trusts in Christ as his sin-bearer, is granted a righteousness that is not his own-the righteousness from God based on faith. (Philippians 3:9)

Righteousness means rightness; justice; virtue; right act in Ezekiel 14:14; and it is equity; justification found in Philippians 3:9.

So Noah and his family were saved when they believed God was going to flood the whole earth and built an ark in obedience, then became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)

Daniel and Job are included as "one of the prophets," in Hebrews 11:32-33, 36).

Folks, it is not our righteousness but that of Jesus Christ which covers us because our righteousness is as filthy rags. It is our faith in Jesus and His life-sacrifice on the cross for our sins that makes us right with a Holy God. How strong is our faith in God? Are we willing to endure cruel mockings? Can our faith stop the mouths of lions?

LET IT GO

Father, burn off the sin in our life so we are pleasing to You.

It's Your breath in our lungs so we pour out our praise to You, Most High God.

Our hearts cry and our bones sing, Great are You Lord!