We don’t usually picture Daniel as a tottering old man when he is lowered into the den of lions. And in looking at children’s books, most of them do not either. But it is an important point. The reason Daniel was steadfast in the face of such horror was built on decades of discipline and his confidence in the faithfulness of God.
Paige said, “When commanded not to pray to God he has to pray to God. It is not a demonstration, it is dependence.”
The comparison she made to Father Ten Boom is apt.
Paige read this from The Hiding Place.
Suddenly the chief interrogator’s eye fell on Father. “That old man!” he cried. “Did he have to be arrested? You, old man!”
William led Father up to the desk. The Gestapo chief leaned forward. “I’d like to send you home, old fellow,” he said. “I’ll take your word that you won’t cause any more trouble.”
I could not see Father’s face, only the erect carriage of his shoulders and the halo of white hair above them. But I heard his answer.
If I go home today,” he said evenly and clearly, “tomorrow I will open my door again to any man in need who knocks.”
The amiability drained from the other man’s face. “Get back in line!” he shouted. “Schnel!! This court will tolerate no more delays.
Here is the link to Paige’s last lecture. (My next post will not be until Sunday, March 10th, so you have extra time to complete this lesson.)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rv7BxnCkNnc
Last week Keller pointed out that Daniel is often taught incorrectly to children, making them think if they are faithful nothing bad will happen to them. I’d like you to watch this from Sally Lloyd-Jones Jesus Storybook Bible. Although Daniel doesn’t look like he is in his mid-eighties, she does always point to the greater Daniel — and here explains He did what was right and had to die. Click below to see it:
https://www.google.com/search?q=the+jesus+storybook+bible+daniel+in+the+lions+den&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS805US806&oq=the+jesus+storybook+bible+daniel+in+the+lions+den&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIGCAEQRRhA0gEJMTAwNTdqMGo0qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8#fpstate=ive&vld=cid:be4ae7f5,vid:fMQGDgJKrjw,st:0
Since we read through Daniel 6 last week with Keller, I’m having you review some of that but then read other passages to which Paige referred this week.
Icebreaker: God Hunt
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence.
Listen to Paige until she gets to the first point in her outline: What Person Matters?
1. Paige said that each chapter in Daniel 1-6 is a stand-alone incident, and yet it is a historical account of the person of Daniel. List some of the ways from his teens to his eighties that Daniel demonstrated his steadfastness and God demonstrated His faithfulness.
What (Who) Person Matters?
No Isolation – Usefulness
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why.
3. Paige wan’t talking about value, for every person is valuable to God, but about impact. What caused Daniel to have the impact he did through the various empires? How do you see him integrating into a foreign land without assimilating? Be specific in your review.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.”
5. How do you see Daniel given significance rather than gaining it?
6. God sends us everywhere. Our goal, Paige said, is not how to gain position but what we are going to do with opportunities given us. What are some places of decay and darkness that are opportunities for you?
There is not one square inch of the universe where the Lord Christ looks and does not say: “That is mine.”
Abraham Kuyper
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement?
No Assimilation – Faithfulness
8. Listen to Paige up until her point of “No capitulation” and share what stands out and why.
9. How did Thomas Moore show dependence on God when asked to sign a document going against the Pope’s stand on marriage? Consequence?
10. Paige said: “Satan’s general strategy in the world is not persecution but absorption.” As you look at your life, where might you have been absorbed into the world?
Past faithfulness is not a compensation for future failure but preparation for future faithfulness.
Sinclair Ferguson
11. Do you think everyone with whom you have regular contact knows you are a Christian?
12. Read Daniel 6:4-10 and comment on what stands out and why.
12. Listen to Paige up to when she gets to WHAT MATTERS and share what stands out and why.
No Capitulation – Dauntlessness
13. Read John 15:18-20 and share what we should expect if we are living faithfully. Have you experienced this?
14. Read 1 John 3:11-13 and explain how this is a caption for this story in Daniel.
15. Paige says the reason we assimilate, capitulate, is so we can avoid conflict with the world. Where have you done this, do you think, if you have?
16. What can’t they trap Daniel?
17. She told a story concerning her husband and the director telling him he was not doing what it takes to stand out, for those people would determine his future. How did he respond and what was her point? (I think she might have been making up for the snake story. 🙂 )
What (Who) Matters?
GOD
18. Read Daniel 9:1-6 and 17-19 and share what stands out from Daniel’s prayer and why. How might this be a model for you in prayer?
19. Listen up to God’s Grip and share what stands out and why.
20. What examples did she give of defining her life in terms of commission rather than of omission — how we don’t break commands rather than refusing to neglect things He asks us to do like evangelism, hospitality to strangers, caring for the poor …Her point? How does Daniel live a life that demonstrates both?
The comparison between Daniel and Father Ten Boom:
Every day of my life had ended like this: that deep steady voice, that sure and eager confiding of us all to the care of God. The Bible lay at home on its shelf, but much of it was stored in his heart. His blue eyes seemed to be seeing beyond the locked and crowded room, beyond Haarlem, beyond earth itself, as he quoted form memory: “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in they word…Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe…”
21. “Discipline is the garden where godliness grows.” Have you experienced this? Comment.
GOD’S GRIP
21. Listen up to God’s glory and share what stands out and why.
22. Review Daniel 6:16-20 and contrast Daniel’s night with Darius’ night. Why the difference?
Begone, unbelief,
My Savior is near,
And for my relief
Will surely appear;
By prayer let me wrestle,
And He will perform;
With Christ in the vessel,
I smile at the storm.
John Newton
23. Read Hebrews 11:32-40 and summarize the main point.
GOD’S GLORY
24. Listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
25. Why was Jesus the greater Daniel? What were the similarities? The differences?
26. Read Luke 21:16-18 and explain the apparent contradiction.
27. What was her point about how we don’t know much about Daniel but only about Daniel’s God? What is the difference between living a great story and living into a great story?
28. What is your take-a-way from this week?
29. What is your take-away from this series?
We’ll be looking at some of the best of Keller in regard to Holy Week beginning Sunday, March 10th. Hope to see you then!
64 comments
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence.
I finally decided to get a copy of The Hiding Place, which I have never read. I made this decision when Paige mentioned it in week 1 or 2. I have heard so much about it and thought, “It is time.” It’s because I really don’t have any time to read “for pleasure.” I read text books and lessons, and the Bible, of course.
As I began reading, I realized that our son lives in Hilversum, Netherlands. It is one of the cities Corrie talks about in the book! It is only about 40 miles to her city of Haarlem! Crazy. I suppose now I can connect with my kid to see about visiting sometime and touring her house (which I believe is still there?). So cool.
Laura, Thar would be so cool to actually get to see the ten Boom home! I read “The Hiding Place” many years ago. I too felt compelled to revisit her memoirs. My son and I watched the Movie for free on Amazon Prime. We both believe that it should be required reading in school. When my daughter was in 4th grade her teacher had them read the book “Alicia” by Alicia Appleman. She had each of her students write a letter to Alicia who was still alive in 1993. My daughter will always remember the Holocaust. 🙏💗🙏
I’m going to have to read Alicia. I’ve read the Hiding Place a couple of times and plan on reading it again in the future. Corrie could have spent the rest her life in bitterness or apathy, but instead used it to glorify God.
You are so right Dawn! Corrie could have remained bitter and angry, she had every right to do so by human standards. But she surrendered to God and forgave her captors, and as a result many have followed suite! All praise be to Jesus Christ our Savior!
I happen to be traveling and visited with my sister yesterday. She told me new information about our family ancestry. My dad’s side hales from the Netherlands! So crazy. We never knew. I now need that new information to ponder. I am being bombarded with information about this place all of the sudden. Can’t wait to have some time to soak it all in.
Sounds like another God Hunt!
Oh, Laura! How fun that The Hiding Place is opening up so many interesting things in your own life!!
Oh, wow! Laura, that is an amazing connection!
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence. I’ve been listening to the book The Holiness of God by R.C. Sproul and coupled with last week’s Tim Keller sermon, I have been more aware of His presence. I know that He is always present, but I’m not always mindful of it. This week, I found my mind drifting more toward Him than on other things.
I love how the book and Keller’s sermon made you more aware of His presence, Dawn. I pray that I will be more of aware of His presence daily, too.
That’s the best God Hunt, Dawn.
I’m glad that there is a few extra days to this week’s study. I wasn’t able to finish last week and I really want to read everyone’s comments. I was glad to see Rebecca back, too!
I had the situation this past summer in which my family was invited to our nephew’s gay wedding. We decided to go. I am curious to see other’s responses to this situation, especially Dee’s.
Dawn, that was very Christlike of you and your family to attend a wedding that you morally did not agree with, but out of love for your nephew attended anyway. God bless you, may we all see past our biases to show the love of God to others.
It is so good to see you here, Lydia! I have missed your posts.
Oh, Thank-you Patti! I have missed participating. I pop on occasionally to read some of your comments. I did watch the study of Daniel by Paige Brown…so good! My eyes just can’t bear the strain of staring at a screen for long periods of time. My eye doctor has advised me to limit screen time. I am so sorry for your year of grief Patti. I have missed what happened, will keep you in prayer, dear Sister. 🙏✝️❤️
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence. At.church Bible study yesterday we spent quite a bit of the time praying for one another and our families. Then we spent time encouraging one of the women encouraging her with ways we see her serving the Lord.
Listen to Paige until she gets to the first point in her outline: What Person Matters?
1. Paige said that each chapter in Daniel 1-6 is a stand-alone incident, and yet it is a historical account of the person of Daniel. List some of the ways from his teens to his eighties that Daniel demonstrated his steadfastness and God demonstrated His faithfulness. In Chap 1 he had resolved not to defile himself with royal food offered. Chap 2 he sought and praised God and then gave God all the credit when he interpreted the king’s dream. Chap 4 Daniel he interpreted the dream and told the king he must acknowledge the Most High and acknowledge Heaven rules. Chap 5 some years later he is acknowledging God as Most High God to the new king and spoke truth to him about God’s upcoming judgement of him. Chapt 6 he’s over 80 and refuses to worship any other God.
Judy, I love to read about the fellowship you have among the women in your church. Prayer-I need to invest in it more!
1. Paige said that each chapter in Daniel 1-6 is a stand-alone incident, and yet it is a historical account of the person of Daniel. List some of the ways from his teens to his eighties that Daniel demonstrated his steadfastness and God demonstrated His faithfulness.
As a young man, Daniel learned the culture of the Babylonians. He would not eat the food of the king. God helped him and his friends by putting them in the royal service. He understood the dreams of the king. God gave him wisdom and discernment. He never failed in his faith. Daniel avoided death due to that.
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence.
I have truly been impacted by this study on Daniel. His lifetime commitment to God and living a life in an alien land, with such integrity, speak to my heart. I am also reading Journey to the Cross, by Paul David Tripp. He writes, how we see and treat our own sinfulness is so important. This is a note to self: Do not excuse, deny, or minimize my own sin, but confess it without excuse or shifting blame. “Confession is a welcome into a deeper appreciation of the presence, promises, and grace of God. It is a welcome to more humble, honest, approachable, and loving relationships with others.”
During this year of great grief, I have also found that the time alone, that I so feared, has helped me to process my grief and walk through it….which can be so hard….yet it helps me to see how every day the Lord brings something or someone into my life with an encouragement. I have so many changes happening, that I am often fearful, but He walks me through that fear with a sense of His presence and His hope.
Reading each of your posts each week, I see Him in all that you share. How blessed we are to serve such a God.
Patti, love this- “Confession is a welcome into a deeper appreciation of the presence, promises, and grace of God. It is a welcome to more humble, honest, approachable, and loving relationships with others.” I am confessing something right now to God and He is helping me see others as He would see them.
Praying for you as you navigate the changes happening in your life. You are so loved and I thank God for you!
You are such a blessing! Your answers are so rich in meaning and make me think deeper. May God continue to bless your path. Praying for you to know His comfort and glad to read you sense His Presence and His hope and that He uses others to help you through this time.
You are such a blessing here, Patti, as you have been to me for most of my life!
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why. Her comments on being salt and light to be dispersed and that we are vessels meant to be poured out wearing His name. I think it is easy for me to stay on my comfy little places and comfy with friends and I should be more aware of bringing attention to him in those places that aren’t so comfy,
3. Paige wan’t talking about value, for every person is valuable to God, but about impact. What caused Daniel to have the impact he did through the various empires? How do you see him integrating into a foreign land without assimilating? Be specific in your review. His character and his relationship with God. When he first went to Babylon he asked not to eat the royal food even though he had been renamed. When he was with king Neb in chap 2, he took no credit for interpreting dream but told Neb it was only God who could interpret. In chap 4 Daniel had firm and interpreted the dream and told Neb he should repent and acknowledge God which king eventually did. Cusp 5 he told Bel about Most High God and that Bel hadn’t honored God and would die. How courageous, there could have been a fear of being killed as the messenger. Chap 6 He refused to pray to anyone but God despite the consequences. That king then recognized the living God whose dominion will never end.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.”taped f Settle down, marry, raise children. . Seek peace and prosperity for Babylon so you will have it too. Don’t listen to false prophets for you will be in Babylon for 70:years. Then you will turn back to Me and seek Me and I will bring you back.
5. How do you see Daniel given significance rather than gaining it? Daniel kept His focus on honoring and obeying God. He prospered in the government of Babylon but didn’t seek it.
6. God sends us everywhere. Our goal, Paige said, is not how to gain position but what we are going to do with opportunities given us. What are some places of decay and darkness that are opportunities for you? Sometimes I think it is to encourage young women and support them through their struggles.
There is not one square inch of the universe where the Lord Christ looks and does not say: “That is mine.”
Abraham Kuyper
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement? A time to rest and enjoy family but also to seek God. Time to study, time to serve.
Icebreaker: God Hunt
Share a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence.
I have been looking for another nurse to help with clinicals although I was willing to work 5 days a week (2 hours each day) if I couldn’t find anybody. I was praying for even just one day a week, (2 days would be good, Lord!) specifically on Wednesdays. I did find a nurse who agreed to help me, and she told me she could do it for 2 days! Wow! Thank you, Lord! And she is someone I feel I can truly trust my kids with and that she would do an excellent job at it.
Daniel has reinforced in my heart that God is sovereign over all affairs of man. And that I am where I am as purposed by God and my life can bring honor to Him by the way I conduct myself among the people I rub shoulders with every day. Daniel has encouraged me to do my job even better, without fanfare, with humility, and to be steadfast in my convictions. In times of opposition.
Listen to Paige until she gets to the first point in her outline: What Person Matters?
1. Paige said that each chapter in Daniel 1-6 is a stand-alone incident, and yet it is a historical account of the person of Daniel. List some of the ways from his teens to his eighties that Daniel demonstrated his steadfastness and God demonstrated His faithfulness.
He and his friends refused to eat the king’s food. Result: they were healthier than the rest of the young Jews.
Daniel and his friends studied the Babylonian culture, etc and they came out more intelligent than the rest. He was also able to interpret dreams including the dreams of King Neb. This includes the statue and the tree
Daniel interpreted Belshazzar’s dreams and was not afraid to tell the king what the dream meant. He also refused the offer for more wealth and position. Darius noticed Daniel’s excellence at his job and planned to promote him above the rest. Because of the others’ jealousy, Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den. God rescued him from the lions. As a result, Darius issued a decree that all people should fear Daniel’s God.
What (Who) Person Matters?
No Isolation – Usefulness
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why.
This struck me: “ He is outstanding in that he climbed to the top but was not climbing; his name is known but he does not try to make a name for himself.” Daniel was all about God, honoring and obeying Him. And as I read the rest of the book of Daniel, God honored him with these words: “As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance.” Daniel 12:13
That struck me too, Bing.
Icebreaker: God HuntShare a way you have experienced the presence of God in the last week. It could be an answer to prayer, help to do His will in the world, Scripture becoming radioactive, a way you see yourself changing because of these messages on Daniel, or simply a sense of His presence. I’ve seen how I don’t have much courage and so I need to trust God and press into Him much more whether in the hard or in the not so hard. Pray for me for I am concerned (and convicted) that I’ve been absorbing the world more.
1. Paige said that each chapter in Daniel 1-6 is a stand-alone incident, and yet it is a historical account of the person of Daniel. List some of the ways from his teens to his eighties that Daniel demonstrated his steadfastness and God demonstrated His faithfulness.
Daniel refused to eat the King’s food. He was able to interpret the king’s dreams. This and other ways Daniel demonstrated his faithfulness put him in a position of favor of the king though he wasn’t working to get his favor. Daniel worked as for the Lord and his integrity and faithfulness came from the Lord. So the king saw the Lord through Daniel because he was so different than the others.
Praying for that dear Rebecca, though I think you are quite amazing.
Prayers for that. I’m surprised you sense that. Your answers and understanding of things always have such depth.
I will join Dee and Judy in praying for you, Rebecca. I see your love for and dependence on God in all you write.
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why.
Daniel’s impact was not because of where he was, but because of who he was. The character and integrity of a person is what matters. I liked that she included the points from Jeremiah 29.. Move in and become involved; Work and pray for prosperity and blessing for the place; Keep your distinct identity; remember that the Lord is bringing you back.
3. Paige wasn’t talking about value, for every person is valuable to God, but about impact. What caused Daniel to have the impact he did through the various empires? How do you see him integrating into a foreign land without assimilating? Be specific in your review.
Daniel had an impact because of his integrity and the quality of his person; his serving; his trustworthiness. He is never trying to make a name for himself, but he is rising because of who he is. Because he belongs to God, he serves the way he does and creates relationship with others. He is using the gifts God gave him to serve others in relationship and loyalty.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.”
I mentioned the summary in #2.) . I must become involved and create relationships, wherever God leads me. I need to pray for prosperity and blessing for wherever I am; I need to keep my identity as a child of God and I need to remember that this life is a journey and not my destination.
5. How do you see Daniel given significance rather than gaining it?
Daniel was never striving for significance or trying to make a name for himself in the kingdom. He was just being salt and light where he was. He was the complete opposite of self centered and self serving. He was a vessel of God’s love, doing what He did for the sake of the Lord. Obediently serving; engaged but not compromised.
6. God sends us everywhere. Our goal, Paige said, is not how to gain position but what we are going to do with opportunities given us. What are some places of decay and darkness that are opportunities for you?
I am probably moving to a new area. I am a bit terrified, but trusting that this is where the Lord wants me to be. I am praying to be obedient to Him.
There is not one square inch of the universe where the Lord Christ looks and does not say: “That is mine.”
Abraham Kuyper
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement?
Meeting new people; finding a new purpose; praying and listening to God’s direction.
Patti — I know how scary it is. I’m already praying for a good friend there. You are so loveable, and I believe God will answer.
Thank you, dear Dee. I know He has a plan. I pray for my heart to be led by Him. He is trustworthy.
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why. That many of her illustrations or key points match Tim Keller’s, i.e. salt, light, retirement communities being a form of isolation or separation from the world. It would be different if these were part of the text of chapter 6. She must be a Tim Keller fan.
3. Paige wasn’t talking about value, for every person is valuable to God, but about impact. What caused Daniel to have the impact he did through the various empires? God was with him. Daniel continued to seek and follow God alone. How do you see him integrating into a foreign land without assimilating? Be specific in your review. He learned their language, history, customs, he sought and worked for the good of their country, yet he never went against the God laws and continued to worship God first, regardless of his situation.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.” He told them to make their dwellings inside the city, plant gardens, intermarry with them, seek for the welfare of the land. One way would be that when elections don’t go the way that I want them to, I could spend more time trying to make things better rather than gripe and hope for their failure.
5. How do you see Daniel given significance rather than gaining it? It says right in verse 3 an excellent spirit was given to him. Daniel did what God commanded of him and served God humbly without trying to put himself above anyone else.
6. God sends us everywhere. Our goal, Paige said, is not how to gain position but what we are going to do with opportunities given us. What are some places of decay and darkness that are opportunities for you? Among unsaved family members and friends, exes and new partners in the lives of my family members.
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement? I definitely want to quit the daily job, but beyond that I don’t know. My husband and I aren’t really on the same page as far as when to retire and we have no solid plans. I guess we’ll do what we feel God is leading us to do.
As far as Daniel was concerned, it’s obvious that his was still mentally and physically able to continue in his work for the King.
Paige is a huge Tim Keller fan – I’m surprised she doesn’t quote him more than she does.
May the Lord help you and your husband be likeminded~
8. Listen to Paige up until her point of “No capitulation” and share what stands out and why. The comment you have below by Sinclair Ferguson. I think it’s easy to rest in what’s in my past woo hoos instead of being open to what should be another place I could bring honor to the Father. I need to learn to be confident in my faith in God and not let fear keep me from moving forward.
9. How did Thomas Moore show dependence on God when asked to sign a document going against the Pope’s stand on marriage? Consequence? He refused to sign docs to allow king Henry to marry even though it wouldn’t change what would happen. Moore was beheaded
10. Paige said: “Satan’s general strategy in the world is not persecution but absorption.” As you look at your life, where might you have been absorbed into the world? Other people’s opinions or feelings in the area we discussed last week. For me it is a fine line to not put more guilt or hurt on a friend but respond in truth and love.
Past faithfulness is not a compensation for future failure but preparation for future faithfulness.
Sinclair Ferguson
11. Do you think everyone with whom you have regular contact knows you are a Christian? No, though I can’t think of anyone in particular. We go to wound clinic weekly and it has probably taken me awhile to bring that up in conversation. Kind of wondering before I spoke is it safe to speak about Jesus. I kept silent the first time Holy Spirit nudged me. Repented and spoke next opportunity. So there are probably other situations. .
12. Read Daniel 6:4-10 and comment on what stands out and why. The large group of men (administrators, prefects, satraps, advisers, and governors) against Daniel and still he stood his ground. He learned of the decree and went home, got down on his knees, prayed and THANKED God. May I be found that faithful.
2. Listen to Paige until she gets to her second point of “No Assimilation” and share what stands out and why.
I already answered this question yesterday and had really good notes. Then, poof! It was gone. You would think after all these years I would learn my lesson.🤷🏻♀️
Daniel stays within the city to influence the people with respect to God.
Daniel is called “Daniel – who belongs to God.” He is known as this throughout the text. He didn’t want to make this name, it was given to him. It’s about relationship, not from achievement. We DO matter to God Most High. We show this as we interact with people of this world. How are we expressing our royalty?
We are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. We expand and preserve the Gospel. We do not act as isolationists.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.”
The exiles were to live within the communities, marry within the community, plant, buy land, work, etc. Participate in the society and He would come back for them.
I can also try to maneuver within the confines of society and continue to hold my position of faith.
4. Read Jeremiah 29:4-14 and summarize God’s directions to the exiles. Then share how you might follow these directions in your “foreign land.”
Build houses, settle down, plant gardens, and eat what they produce. Marry; increase in number; seek the prosperity of the city. In short, live your life for God no matter where He sends you. This means I engage actively with those I come in contact with be a good citizen, and work toward the welfare of the people where we live. My students will be future healthcare providers. My part-time job as a nurse/instructor is my contribution to my city’s welfare using the skills/experience God has given me.
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement?
I view retirement as an opportunity to serve God in a different capacity, doing what I love and having more time to do it without the constraints of an 8-5 job. I also have found delight in doing things I have not tried before.
From Bing:
I view retirement as an opportunity to serve God in a different capacity, doing what I love and having more time to do it without the constraints of an 8-5 job. I also have found delight in doing things I have not tried before.
8. Listen to Paige up until her point of “No capitulation” and share what stands out and why.
Daniel has total obedience. Concentrates on serving rather than fitting in. Becoming an outsider means he is fully engaged.
One thing that confuses me is that she says God never requires us to sin to follow Him. What about when Corrie and her crew lie about having a second radio? They ask a government employee to steal food cards. Aren’t these sins? They have to disobey/lie to carry out their plans.
9. How did Thomas Moore show dependence on God when asked to sign a document going against the Pope’s stand on marriage?
He would not sign the document.
Consequence?
Death.
13. Read John 15:18-20 and share what we should expect if we are living faithfully. Have you experienced this? The world will hate us and persecute us. No. I’m retired so my contacts are limited. There were probably a couple of comments when I worked with a non believer and a man who felt church had let him down.
14. Read 1 John 3:11-13 and explain how this is a caption for this story in Daniel. There was a large group of men surrounding Daniel who wanted him dead because of their jealousy.
15. Paige says the reason we assimilate, capitulate, is so we can avoid conflict with the world. Where have you done this, do you think, if you have? I can’t think of a specific but I’ve probably kept silent.
16. What can’t they trap Daniel? Think I missed that. His integrity and he was fixed in his obedience to God,
17. She told a story concerning her husband and the director telling him he was not doing what it takes to stand out, for those people would determine his future. How did he respond and what was her point? (I think she might have been making up for the snake story. He respectfully replied not so Jesus determines his future. The lady said that she was envious. Her point is that he didn’t back down. He knew whose he is and wasn’t going to pander to the world.
8. Listen to Paige up until her point of “No capitulation” and share what stands out and why. Something she said very quickly which was compromise is not the answer, compromise is the cancer. The very idea of that goes against almost everything that we are taught on how to get along with others.
9. How did Thomas Moore show dependence on God when asked to sign a document going against the Pope’s stand on marriage? He refused to go against God and refused to sign the document. Consequence? He was beheaded.
10. Paige said: “Satan’s general strategy in the world is not persecution but absorption.” As you look at your life, where might you have been absorbed into the world? In the shows or movies that I’ve watched. Almost every show has strong language and suggestive scenes. There have been plenty of movies and shows that I couldn’t watch because they were over the top, but I tend to overlook the bad language and fast forward past the explicit scenes if the story line is good.
11. Do you think everyone with whom you have regular contact knows you are a Christian? Yes
I wonder, will this Paige video be up after today? Or, is she taking it down as normal? I know Dee said we would have until the 10th, but I am not sure if the video will remain. I keep having posting issues (my own fault), and am trying to complete the study.
I’m going to make sure that I listen to the rest of it tonight, just in case it is taken down tomorrow. I will do my best with the questions the rest of the week.
She left it up!!! Thank the Lord 😉♥️🙏
I’m glad, too! With no transcripts or closed captioning, I have to listen repeatedly to understand what she’s saying.
My husband had surgery, so I am behind in this study, I definitely will not be answering many of the questions. I am thankful for this study and group of women who are open and honest. Your responses have been an encouragement to me.
God Hunt last week: The women’s group study I am attending here in SC (visiting) is using a book which discusses a different portion of scripture each week, the overall theme being having strength. Last week we talked about Daniel and Jeremiah 29! I was able to contribute some of the teaching of Paige and Keller.
“Empires have changed, and Daniel has not.” “He is still singing the Lord’s song.” This is what stands out to me about Daniel’s life, and can be applied to me directly. Empires are not changing, but the leadership changes and our society seems to always be in motion. No matter what is happening around me, I can still sing the Lord’s song.
NO ISOLATION – USEFULNESS
“This is not a history of survival in exile, hang on we can make it through, it is a story of impact.” Daniel did not hold anything back in his service or commitment to the welfare of Babylon. He was integrated but not assimilated’ Daniel stayed true to his God.
ch. 1 Respectfully asked for a different diet; became advisor to the king (did not refuse to serve the king) ch. 2 Daniel is separate from the group of Chaldeans, sorcerers, etc., but he still makes himself available to help the king. Daniel interprets the dream. but gives God the glory for the interpretation. ch 4 Daniel interprets another dream and states to the king that it is warning from God. Daniel is concerned for Neb (a pagan) and advises repentance to avoid the coming judgement. Daniel takes no delight in the coming judgement. ch. 5 Another empire, another king, and Daniel is still available to help and advise. His reputation is that of a man of excellent spirit, knowledge and understanding. ch. 6 Another empire, another king. By this time Daniel’s character is established and he is well known for his commitment to God. That is the only “fault” that his enemies can find in him.
GIVEN SIGNIFICANCE Paige said, “He keeps rising to the top, and he’s the only one not climbing.” Daniel never sought promotion, but it was given because of his character, integrity and faithful service.
This reminds me of a time when I worked at a very boring job. I was thinking, “Why am I doing this when I have so much education and experience? Is this the only thing my employer can assign to me? I should be doing something better, and for more money, too.” The Lord gently reminded me of the parable about being satisfied with the wages you are given when you take a job, and 1 Co 10:31 Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
Eventually I did have other opportunities, but always remembered that lesson. It’s not the job that counts; it’s the way you do the job and your attitude. Now that I am retired, the lesson is still valid, It’s not my circumstances, the culture, the politics, etc., it’s HOW I live that matters. Being faithful to the Lord, giving Him glory, reflecting His love. This is only possible for me through His grace.
Keep reading, sisters, keep memorizing. Thanks for “listening” to me ramble.
You culled such good quotes from Paige, Cheryl.
Cheryl, thanks for your comments. This one stood out to me: Daniel never sought promotion, but it was given because of his character, integrity and faithful service.
Significance, whatever of it we have, is a gift from God. Ultimately, He is the source of all good gifts we have while we are here on earth.
NO ISOLATION – USEFULNESS
Daniel was always considered an outsider, he did not try to “fit in.” Paige says “if God put him there, God can keep him there on His terms. That’s true for all of us.” “God never calls us to an opportunity that will cause us to sin.” These statements have caused me to really look at my daily life, because in reality I am faced with opportunities all the time each day not only in terms of service, but personal relationships. How am I living each day?
RETIREMENT
When I was younger, I viewed retirement as something relaxing, when my husband and I would travel enjoying ourselves. We’d have more time for church involvement, our family, hobbies, etc. Well, things did not turn out the way I had envisioned…… at all. Because of medical issues and multiple surgeries, my husband is disabled. Everything I plan now is viewed through that lens.m
13. Read John 15:18-20 and share what we should expect if we are living faithfully. Have you experienced this? We expect to be hated by the world. Hate would be too strong a word for my own personal experiences. Avoidance would be a more fitting term. When looking at society as a whole, then hate would be accurate.
14. Read 1 John 3:11-13 and explain how this is a caption for this story in Daniel. Daniel was hated because of his goodness.
15. Paige says the reason we assimilate, capitulate, is so we can avoid conflict with the world. Where have you done this, do you think, if you have? Years ago I was working with a group of people who went on hours long breaks, the supervisor also went on long breaks out of the department at the same time. At first, I would only take my allotted break times. After a while, I started staying on long breaks because I hated the grief I was getting from everyone, plus with homeschooling 4 boys and working full time it truly was the only downtime that I had so I kind of justified it in my mind.
16. What can’t they trap Daniel? Because he is truly an upright man.
17. She told a story concerning her husband and the director telling him he was not doing what it takes to stand out, for those people would determine his future. How did he respond and what was her point? (I think she might have been making up for the snake story. 🙂 ) He responded that God was the one to determine his future. Her point was that we need to know who truly determines our future regardless of what is going on around us.
18. Read Daniel 9:1-6 and 17-19 and share what stands out from Daniel’s prayer and why. How might this be a model for you in prayer? He praised God. He was humble in his approach, and repented for his nations sins and did as we not them. Praise and true repentance and acceptance of responsibility for our nations sins.
19. Listen up to God’s Grip and share what stands out and why. Battle was won at Daniel’s window He was set in whose way he would choose I need to be informing myself t regularly that is God’s way I must choose. My allegiance must be to Him
20. What examples did she give of defining her life in terms of commission rather than of omission — how we don’t break commands rather than refusing to neglect things He asks us to do like evangelism, hospitality to strangers, caring for the poor …Her point? How does Daniel live a life that demonstrates both? A marriage is not looking at what I haven’t done wrong no adultery or stealing it’s built on relationship and what we do for one another. Daniel served his captor nation and stood strong in his faith to God.
The comparison between Daniel and Father Ten Boom: From their early days to their last days they both stood strong in faith in God to the end.
Every day of my life had ended like this: that deep steady voice, that sure and eager confiding of us all to the care of God. The Bible lay at home on its shelf, but much of it was stored in his heart. His blue eyes seemed to be seeing beyond the locked and crowded room, beyond Haarlem, beyond earth itself, as he quoted form memory: “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in they word…Hold thou me up, and I shall be safe…”
21. “Discipline is the garden where godliness grows.” Have you experienced this? Comment. Without a steady consistent practice of Bible study prayer and reflection I can stumble or come up with my own theories and thoughts that don’t line up with scripture. The only way I can seen to be more like Him is to spend time in His word and learning His way and listening to the Holy Spirit
21. Listen up to God’s glory and share what stands out and why. God saved Daniel through the through the trial but not from the trial. Daniel was able to go into the lion’s den because he knew and trusted God. My relationship with God needs to be treasured and nurtured so come what may I know God regardless what happens I can trust Him with the outcome
22. Review Daniel 6:16-20 and contrast Daniel’s night with Darius’ night. Why the difference? Daniel was with the lions a but an angel had closed their mouths. Darius didn’t sleep or eat and anxiously the next morning went to check on Daniel
Begone, unbelief, My Savior is near,And for my relief Will surely appear;By prayer let me wrestle, And He will perform;With Christ in the vessel, I smile at the storm.
John Newton
23. Read Hebrews 11:32-40 and summarize the main point. Some of God’s great leaders had thought times and had a form of persecution but were spared death from persecution. Others were horribly tortured and killed. All these people were living by faith in God and trusted in His promises. None received what had been promised because God had something better for us,
24. Listen to the end and share what stands out and why. Daniel wasn’t just a prayer ear. He was a pointer to God. I hope a few people will have a memory of me and think that I in a small way was a pointer to the Father and Jesus.25. Why was Jesus the greater Daniel? What were the similarities? The differences? Jesus has paid for our sins and through belief in Him we can all enter heaven. Both were accused and persecuted, left alone to face the lions. Daniel survived the lion’s den. Jesus died on the cross .
26. Read Luke 21:16-18 and explain the apparent contradiction. You will be betrayed, hated and some out to death but not a hair on your head will perish. We will die, but we will not perish. I am His and He is mine. With Jesus we have everything
27. What was her point about how we don’t know much about Daniel but only about Daniel’s God? What is the difference between living a great story and living into a great story? What made Daniel great was not his physical and mental attributes but his relationship to God and that he led others to declare the greatness of God. God has given us the Bible telling us what happens in the end. Living into His story is living into a great story. Living for myself and the story I want to write will be something that burns and has no eternal fruit.
28. What is your take-a-way from this week? That I must be certain of what I believe and not waver in that belief.
29. What is your take-away from this series? I’m still processing salt and light. Where am I failing to be the salt and light my contacts need to hear and see.
I’m sure you are a pointer to God, Judy.
12. Read Daniel 6:4-10 and comment on what stands out and why.
The evil, jealous people are still ganging up on Daniel. He is still praying faithfully. He does not get distracted. He is salt and light through adversity.
13. Read John 15:18-20 and share what we should expect if we are living faithfully. Have you experienced this?
We should expect to be hated by the world. Oh yes, I have been mocked by coworkers.
14. Read 1 John 3:11-13 and explain how this is a caption for this story in Daniel.
He was jealous of his brother. The people of the kings court were also jealous of Daniel.
15. Paige says the reason we assimilate, capitulate, is so we can avoid conflict with the world. Where have you done this, do you think, if you have?
At work, with less spiritual friends, and with family members.
18. Read Daniel 9:1-6 and 17-19 and share what stands out from Daniel’s prayer and why. How might this be a model for you in prayer?
Go humbly to God and remember what He has done in the past. How He has helped me. He is good. Ask forgiveness for my sins. Plead with Him to help me now.
19. Listen up to God’s Grip and share what stands out and why.
Daniel is holding on to God. He has to talk to God about an edict to not talk to God! He knew the law was signed and still prayed. What faith!
Prayer is a dependence for him.
The lions are not the climax. The praying is the climax. He prays on his knees. It reminds him (and us) of our true position. Three times a day!
How can you sing the Lord’s song? Why would you sing anything else?
Discipline leads to godliness.
21. “Discipline is the garden where godliness grows.” Have you experienced this? Comment.
I have always gone to church. That is a discipline. When I began heavy Bible study, 15 years ago, I began a discipline that has blossomed over time. I feel “naked” when I can’t get to my study of the Bible. That is a discipline. Add to it dancing and singing for the Lord, and I am consumed in Him. Yes, I have become more godly as time has progressed.
21. Listen up to God’s glory and share what stands out and why.
Even Darius knows that Daniel is being held up by God! God’s influence is present and the Babylonians know this.
Ask honest questions when we read the Bible. It helps us understanding. Why didn’t God shut the mouths of the people? He wanted to grow Daniel. God will be with us through the trials.
God will take care of you. I watched my mother die a pauper. She had nothing, but she was always taken care of, to the end. When you get there, your debts don’t matter, all that stuff of our world doesn’t matter anymore. My mom loved Jesus and she had Him to the end.
The faithful were stoned, cut in half, tortured, etc. Hebrews. Daniel believed in where he was headed. He turned to face Jerusalem three times a day. He didn’t have anything but symbols. We have the cross! Nothing can separate us from the love of God. Not even death. I am His and He is mine.
22. Review Daniel 6:16-20 and contrast Daniel’s night with Darius’ night. Why the difference?
The king fasted, refused entertainment, and couldn’t sleep.
Daniel was saved. No problem with the lions!
Daniel trusted that God would save Him.
From Laura: I feel “naked” when I can’t get to my study of the Bible.
Not clothed with the armor!
24. Listen to the end and share what stands out and why.
God has us. We just don’t know where He will take us.
Daniel pointed to God. He helped everyone look to God. It’s all about the glory of God.
25. Why was Jesus the greater Daniel? What were the similarities? The differences?
Daniel put all of his faith in symbols. God promised He would be with His people, where you could approach Him because of His love, and for the atoning blood of the sacrifice.
We kneel and put our face to the cross. It’s not a symbol. Jesus was thrown to the lions, He was left alone, and torn apart, that I might be made while. That is how much we matter to Him.
Daniel was safe because he had God no matter what. We will die but we will not perish.
Similarities? Daniel and Jesus were both persecuted for their actions. They were both put in dangerous situations. They were both put in a cave. They were both left alone. They both left the cave.
Differences? Jesus was beaten, not Daniel. Jesus was mocked, not Daniel. Jesus was hung on a cross and left for dead. God turned His face from Jesus, not Daniel. Jesus actually died and then rose. Not Daniel. All for me. All so I can live forever with Him. Thank You Lord!
26. Read Luke 21:16-18 and explain the apparent contradiction.
The contradiction is that we will be mocked and persecuted but not really harmed. This is because no matter what, we have God with us! Emmanuel!
This reminds me of Stephen looking to heaven while he is being stoned. I hope if it ever gets to this point in our world, I can be like Stephen.
I never got to this question, so I thought I might answer it here.
7. Daniel is in his eighties, but is not going into a Christian retirement community. How do you view retirement?
I always thought I would travel, relax, get my house in order (finally!), and do the things I never got to do because I was too busy raising kids and working. Now, I’m feeling guilty for thinking that way! Especially now that I heard the story of Paige’s friend who went on a mission trip and ended up staying. And then there is Corrie Ten Boom. I have not finished reading the Hiding Place, but understand that she was a fighter throughout her life. Now, I reconsider my retirement. However, it’s not just me involved. I have my husband to consider as well. I’m not so sure he would go along with moving to Uganda….ugh! What to do?? How can I fit in? How can I make my life in Christ matter?
Laura, Your life for Christ matters with everything you are doing every day. Your posts alone are an encouragement to me. When I have multiple weekends where I have grandkids spending the night and I think that I really need a few weeks to myself, I think of you and how you faithfully do so much to make sure that Cooper and Grace have a happy, secure, Christ centered home. You are a blessing and inspiration to me!
Laura, I feel with you- “How can I make my life in Christ matter?” Now that I am in my third year as a retiree, I look back and at times wish I had done certain things differently. I keep reminding myself of Paul’s words: “Forgetting what is behind, and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3:13-14
You are doing a great job helping Sara raise her kids, making a difference among your students, and being a helpmeet to your husband. That is a calling that God has gifted you right now. You and what you do matters for Christ, dear friend!
Thank you ladies, for your encouraging words! It means so much to me 😘. I just want to be the person God planned for me. I sometimes feel like the disciples who couldn’t seem to “get” what Jesus wanted them to know.
27. What was her point about how we don’t know much about Daniel but only about Daniel’s God? Daniel wasn’t all about promoting himself or making himself look important. He was only serving God and doing what God asked of him regardless of where he was at in life. What is the difference between living a great story and living into a great story? Living a great story is about you and what you’ve done. Living into a great story is about what God has done through you.
28. What is your take-a-way from this week? That I cannot withdraw from others or become like them, both options keep me from glorifying God which is my sole purpose.
29. What is your take-away from this series? That faithfully serving God is a lifetime endeavor and it happens each moment with every decision that we make.
Dawn-I love this: That faithfully serving God is a lifetime endeavor and it happens each moment with every decision that we make.
27. What was her point about how we don’t know much about Daniel but only about Daniel’s God? What is the difference between living a great story and living into a great story?
Today, Sunday, our pastor’s message was based on John 3 and the story of John The Baptist. The book of Daniel reminded me of what John said to his disciples after the latter were in a dispute. They were confused about where everyone belonged to: John’s or Jesus’. John said: He must increase; I must decrease. Daniel’s story was God’s story; he was just in it. God stays in the forefront; we are in the background.
I also thought of Paige’s illustration while back of her friend’s life-size picture of Tiger Woods as compared to her husband’s picture in the shadows.
It is so easy and tempting to think the world should revolve around us. Till his death, Daniel remained steadfast and confident of who and whose he was. As I have shared above, Daniel was commended by God in this verse: Daniel 12: 13 “As for you, go your way till the end. You will rest, and then at the end of the days you will rise to receive your allotted inheritance.”
28. What is your take-a-way from this week?
I am privileged to be in God’s story. As I also get older, may I be secure in who and whose I am. One day this week, while I was reflecting on what I am involved with, I asked myself, “Bing, what if all these things are taken away from you: job, leadership positions, some achievements, etc.) Would I be content with a quiet, ordinary life? Will it continue to be a life of praise and worship to God?”
29. What is your take-away from this series?
I matter to God. My life has a purpose and I am where He wants me to be. I can bring Him honor in whatever I do. When I face opposition in Jesus’ name, I leave my life to the mighty hands of God who loves me and will take care of me.