Posted by I love reading the Book of Daniel because it has some of the craziest stories in the Bible, but it also has some profound truths about God and the Christian life. The book centers around Daniel, and in it we can see his wisdom and his skill. He is quickly promoted into the King’s court and becomes one of the presidents in the Babylonian empire. He is called “excellent”, “faithful”, and it’s stated that “no error or fault was found in him.” He sounds like a great guy!
I believe that the secret to his success is found in Daniel 6:10 which says: “…he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.”
Daniel would faithfully pray 3 times a day to God, not just to ask him for things, but to thank Him. Daniel made it a habit to regularly communicate with the Lord. He went out of his way to deepen his relationship with his God and master. No wonder he found favor with those in the government. I believe that because his priorities were with God, he could be trusted with more responsibility. Daniel was constantly seeking God, not because of the benefits God was giving him, but because He is worthy of all honor and glory. Daniel was extolling and focusing on the Lord. He was being intentional with his faith!
When I read this verse tonight, I was immediately convicted. I don’t pray three times a day, lately I’ve been so busy that I have to squeeze prayer in between meetings or when driving to work. After reading this passage, I had to repent for my skewed priorities. Then, I began to think about what might happen in my life if I did what Daniel did. How would I change if I began to put myself in a place of surrender, give my whole attention to the Lord, and thank him for the blessings in my life three times a day? I believe that my life could by changed by simply being intentional about tuning into God throughout my day. My perspective would change. My attitude would change. My countenance would change. My goals would change. My words would change. My life would change.
So, I’m putting this idea into action. I’m starting a #prayfor30 challenge. I’m going to start tomorrow by praying 3 times a day (morning, afternoon, and evening) for at least 5 minutes each time. This will require me to get alone, away from my busy-ness, in order to refocus and recenter myself on God. I’m going to be posting on my blog, Twitter, and Facebook about what I’m praying for and how God is changing my life. I encourage you to join me! Use #prayfor30, reply to my blog, follow me on twitter (@sarahjcallen), and let me know how you’re doing, what you’re praying for, and what God is showing you!
Join me, and let’s see God move in miraculous ways!
Work in Progress 