Pray for Daniel

puddleglum · Post by **puddleglum** » Mon Oct 08, 2012 11:15 am

The prophet Daniel was one of the captives taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar when he conquered Judah. He was fully committed to obeying God even though he was a captive and as a result God placed him in a position where he could have a godly influence on the king. As a result, Nebuchadnezzar became a worshipper of God.

Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.
Daniel 4:37 ESV

God has commanded Christians to pray for those in authority over them.

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.
1 Timothy 2:1-2 ESV

This is often quoted to show that we should pray for the leaders of our government. This is true but they arenâ€™t the only ones we need to pray for. Those who control news and entertainment media, educational institutions, and businesses often have as much influence on people as our political leaders do and we should pray for them as well.

Those who hold positions of authority have helpers and advisors who assist them in carrying out their duties. The account of Daniel and Nebuchadnezzar shows that sometimes these assistants can have a strong influence on their bosses. If they are Christians this influence will be a good one.

The title of this post is â€œPray for Daniel.â€� What I meant by that is that when we pray for someone in authority we should pray that God will place Christians in jobs where they can have a good influence on him and we should pray for those who already hold such positions.

If you are a Christian and have a job which brings you into contact with someone who is in a position of power you should consider the possibility that God has placed you in that job so you will be a Daniel (or a Danielle) to provide a godly influence in that personâ€™s life.