Daniel is greatly loved by God and he is on his hands and knees trembling. Greatly favored doesn’t mean life is always peachy. Mary was greatly favored and it almost got her divorced.

But being greatly loved by God is worth the demands God places on His beloved and also any trouble and persecution that will come. God is worth any price. Well, no, He is worth far more than what we could ever pay.

God hears and answers the prayers of those who do the things that please Him.

Daniel set his heart to understand and humbled himself by seeking understanding from the Lord and not taking council in his own heart and mind. God answers prayers. You can ask for understanding. God answers the prayers of the saints.

Daniel didn’t immediately get understanding. He had to wait, but just a few weeks. Just because you don’t immediately understand when you ask, doesn’t mean the answer is no. Just move on. He will answer in His way and in His timing.

We learn about battles going on in the heavenly places, but what’s of more interest to me, because of how it affects me personally, is how Daniel is encouraged and strengthened. Time and again he is helped. He is helped to wake up. He is helped to his feet. He is helped to speak. He is helped to have strength. He is helped to have understanding. He is helped to have courage.

I need the Lord to be all that to me and more. I rely on Him for all things. If left to myself, I would run away and hide. The Lord is my strength and my song and my salvation on any day and at every moment.

It is hopeful to me to see how God makes sure Daniel is able to receive the message. And as one who can have trouble opening my mouth, it’s encouraging how Daniel is helped to speak. The Lord can touch my lips if I’m to say something. The Lord can move me to my feet if He wants me to take action. The Lord can and WILL accomplish His purposes in my life, and yours.