I received an award at my new job last week. I am very proud of it, but it is a bittersweet thing. You see, I was given the award to "Most likely to 'dive in head first into the lions den.'" I take that as a great compliment because it means I'm doing a great job and I'm fearless at overcoming my tasks.
But the compliment made me think of the Biblical Lion's Den and Daniel. The story is about how some close to the king wanted to get rid of Daniel, so they convinced the king to decree that no one could pray to anyone or anything other than the King for 30 days. Well, Daniel prayed three times daily. The punishment was to be thrown into the lion's den. He was thrown in because he was following God.
I was given a cliche parallel compliment that put me at Daniel's level. I didn't deserve it. I don't do half as much as I should when it comes to following God. The verse that really got to me was this: Daniel 6:22, "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt."
I am ashamed because I'd probably be eaten. Would I be found innocent? Do I do enough for God? No. I find myself weak in discipline. I am easily distracted by the material things of this world. I don't do enough.
Now, please don't take this as to mean I'm doomed. I know Jesus lives in my heart and I'll spend eternity with him. I won't lose the gift of eternal life because of my lack of focus. I just lose some of my self respect. I know I'm capable of doing so much more. I have a desire to witness and share my good fortune (grace, and a relationship with Jesus) with others, I just let my worldly desires overcome it.
Here is my prayer: Oh God, give me tunnel vision. I want to only have eyes for you. Give me the chance to share my special love and relationship that I have in you with others. I want to dive into the lion's den, because that means I'm willing to give up everything for you. I am willing to give up everything for you. I love you, God. I want to make you proud. Forgive me for my laziness and lack of discipline. Make me stronger in you. I love you. Amen.
Daniel 6: 27, "He delivereth and rescueth, and he worketh signs and wonders in heaven and in earth, who hath delivered Daniel from the power of the lions."
