Deeper Reflection
We can view Daniel 6 as a paradigm of our discipleship journey or of a particular adversity we go through in our faith pilgrimage. Trials are normal in biblical discipleship (Rom 5:1-5; Heb 10:32-36; Jas 1:2-4; 1 Pet 1:6-9). In trials, we are tested if we will follow the Lord faithfully, serve Him constantly and trust in Him steadfastly, at all costs, even if it means to be thrown into the lions’ den and whether God shuts the lions’ mouths or not (Dan 6:10, 16, 23).Daniel 6 concludes with the glory of God as a crescendo (vv.25-27). This is always the divine intention for all our discipleship trials – but contingent on us passing the test and being approved by God (Jas 1:12). Discipleship trials are for the glory of God and are all about the glory of God. So, we make the glory of God as central in our trials. This divine glory is seen in the revelation of God. God revealed Himself through Daniel’s faithfulness to Him and His deliverance of His servant. God revealed Himself as “the living God”, the everlasting God – “enduring forever”, the reigning God – “His kingdom…His dominion” and the saving God – “He delivers and rescues” (vv.26b-27). And God’s deliverance was manifested in three dimensions: by “signs and wonders”, “in heaven and on earth” and “from the power of the lions” (v.27). God does not reveal Himself in abstraction, but in real life, in tangible ways. The revelation of God is a reality to be experienced. So, we see God in our trials and God shines in our trials.