“I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. ‘For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end. He rescues and he saves; he performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth. He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions.’” (Daniel 6:26-27)

Is King Darius really converted? There is no certainty to the answer. The only certainty is that he desires to be friends with all gods, and this One may be no different than any other. He comes to this conclusion because of God’s saving Daniel from the lions. And he is right. Daniel’s God is able to do marvelous things. He would be a fool not to acknowledge this. Thus, whether for political reasons, or spiritual, King Darius does promote the cause of God’s people – at least for now.

We are continually amazed at the working of the Lord to save and lead His people. Even in captivity He is watching over them. They do not suffer in their new location. Their only hope is to return home to Jerusalem. God builds His people into a strong nation, away from their home. It is an amazing thing. The Jewish people have such a strong bond no matter where we find them in the world. Only God could do that, as He now does with those who follow His Son.

Heavenly Father, we are not really amazed at Your watching over Your people. We can’t say we are surprised. You have given us enough of Your Grace to know this love You have for Your people.

You are always with them. You never abandon them. This is who You are. You are not a god of stone or wood. You are the real thing, Lord, God, Almighty! Praise Your Holy Name. In Jesus’ name. Amen.