Daniel answered, “Long live the king! My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths, so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight.” Then the king gave orders to arrest the men who had maliciously accused Daniel. He had them thrown into the lions’ den…the lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den. – Daniel 6: 21-22; 24

In this world, there will unfortunately always be people who, when they observe God’s anointing on someone’s life, will hate it.

For these people, when they see someone’s crown, their first and last instinct is to knock it off and knock the person down.

And that was poor Daniel’s predicament.

When he proved himself more capable than all the other administrators and high officers in King Darius’ court, they made it their full-time job to find fault with Daniel.

But Scripture tells us they couldn’t find anything to criticize or condemn; Daniel was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy.

So they resorted to attacking his faith.

They convinced King Darius to sign a decree stating that for 30 days, anyone who bowed and worshipped anyone, divine or human, other than the king would be thrown into the lions’ den.

Remarkably, Daniel didn’t cower in fear because of this ridiculous decree, but instead, he doubled down on his prayers and gave thanks to God!

Of course, the administrators and high officers were hot on his tail and quick to tattle.

But little did they know that God would send His angel to protect Daniel as he spent the night in the lions’ den.

In the end, the malice that was intended for Daniel boomeranged right back to its source.

Because those with jealous and malicious hearts never prosper.

Just like the administrators and high officers, people who are wholeheartedly committed to attacking God’s children will always get torn apart.

Be blessed,

Alexia

Prayer: God, thank you for reminding me that no weapon formed against me shall prosper when I’ve devoted my life to you. If there’s anyone around me who holds jealousy and malice towards me, I pray that you would soften their hearts and give them a spirit of love and goodwill to prevent them from falling on their own swords. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.