Daniel is one of the most resolute individuals in the Bible!

He would not compromise, no matter what.

Even in the Book of Daniel’s very first chapter, Daniel “purposed” in his heart not to eat certain idol-tainted foods! Nor drink intoxicating beverages!

What holy determination!

But from what central point of character did this godly steadfastness spring?

I think it was Daniel’s sterling life of prayer!

Here’s an example. Once, in Daniel chapter six, we are told that a group of detractors, men who were jealous of Daniel’s success and hated him for his honesty, his sincerity … plotted to have this man of God killed.

They, using flattery and false praise, persuaded the King to: “establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Now, O king, establish the decree, and sign the writing, that it be not changed, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, which altereth not. Wherefore king Darius signed the writing and the decree.” Daniel 6:7-9

Pray to anything or anyone … except the heathen King … and your life will be ended!

Now, watch Daniel. “Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime.” Daniel 6:10

What a man!

And notice this. We are not told a single thing for which he prayed!

Just that he did pray!

Even when he knew the consequences!

HE WENT INTO HIS HOUSE! HE OPENED HIS WINDOWS TOWARD JERUSALEM! HE KNELT THREE TIMES A DAY! AND HE PRAYED, GIVING THANKS BEFORE HIS GOD!

Prayer, no matter what!

One old Preacher called this “obstinacy” in prayer!

Another Bible character whose prayer life is once described in this manner is Paul, then Saul of Tarsus, only a few hours after he was saved. “And the Lord said unto Ananias, Arise, and go into the street which is called Straight, and enquire in the house of Judas for one called Saul, of Tarsus: for, behold, he prayeth.” Acts 9:11

Behold, he prayeth!

Folks, maybe it is not as important WHAT we pray … as it is important that WE DO PRAY!

Be determined in your prayer life, as was Daniel!

Three times a day!

Almost sounds like David: “Seven times a day do I praise thee because of thy righteous judgments.” Psalm 119:164, Wow!

By the way, have YOU prayed today?

— Dr. Mike Bagwell