Daniel: Week 13 (Wednesday 19th July 2023)

(from www.insightforliving.org.uk)

Chapter 9:1-19

The Heart Of The Matter

“In God We Trust.” “One Nation under God.” For Americans, these sentiments have

become proverbial, national mottoes describing the American character. But in recent years, these ideas have come under increasing attack as a perceived violation of the constitutional separation of church and state. The gradual eroding of the JudeoChristian ethic to reveal a more secular society does not bode well for

any nation, not just America. Daniel understood that national sins—forgetting God—lead to discipline, so at the dawn of a new administration he prayed for his nation, Israel. And he left us an example to follow.

Discovering The Way

1. Setting for Prayer (Daniel 9:1–2)

Daniel prayed at the dawning of a new regime and while studying the Word.

2. Ingredients in Prayer (Daniel 9:3–6)

Daniel’s prayer reveals five attitudes we should adopt.

3. Praise after Confession (Daniel 9:7–15)

Daniel praised God for His righteousness, compassion, forgiveness, and faithfulness, though Israel had been unfaithful.

Starting Your Journey

The motive behind Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 9:16–19) was that God’s name might be

glorified in Israel. This is the same reason we should pray for our country, that God

would receive glory. Will you pray, just ten minutes a day, for God to receive glory in

the administrations of your city, state, and country?