Last month we saw Daniel making a stand for God, this month we will look at the first half of this chapter, leaving the prophecy to next month. It is the second year of the reign of Nebuchadnezzar and he is already getting suspicious of his, so called, wise men who are telling him what he wants to hear but not proving themselves to be up to much. So when he has this dream, he sets them what seems an impossible challenge, not only does he want them to interpret his dream, he wants them to tell him what it is. Panic strikes, as the King issues a death threat unless he is given the answer he wants.

So under this pressure what does Daniel do? Does he crumble and run away? Does he try and succeed in his own strength? Nope, he trusts in God and asks his friends to pray. When we are under pressure we need to remember to do both of these things.

First, to trust in God, he never allows us to be tested more than we are able to bear (see 1 Corinthians 10v13). Without God we can do nothing, but with God we can do what is impossible for man. (see Luke 18v27).

Second, asking our friends to pray. we all like to be independent, to go out and do things in our own strength. How often, when we do this do we fail? Quite often. God didn't mean for us to work on our own, but together with others. Just as Daniel turned to his three friends in his time of need, so can we likewise turn to our friends and ask them to pray for us.

So in the month that lies ahead, let us trust in God and turn to our fellow Christians for support.

If you have any comments or questions about this article then please e-mail me at a.wood@assemblyyouth.net

Spending time in the Scriptures Lamentations	Next month: Prophecy of the kingdoms 1.	Wilderness years Sin offerings
	Dare to be a Daniel
	Last month: Stand up for Christ.

All quotes are from the English Standard version of the Bible unless otherwise specified.