Daniel 14

 We can learn so much from Daniel and his friends. For me, the primary lessons relate to God’s sovereignty and His presence. He knows every detail of our lives, even the secret dark places that we often hide from others. He knows our anxieties and fears and how the evil one makes every attempt to undermine our credibility, courage and identity. We cannot doubt what our Father has shown us in the light, even when the lights go out. He will give us the strength we need when we are weak and confused. 

“People who have never suffered in life have less empathy for others, little knowledge of their own shortcomings and limitations, no endurance in the face of hardship, and unrealistic expectations for life. As the New Testament book of Hebrews tells us, anyone God loves experiences hardship (Hebrews 12:1-8).” - Timothy Keller, Counterfeit Gods