My title for this devotion is Pagan vs Me.
First, the words:
“I make a decree, that in all my royal dominion people are to tremble and fear before the God of Daniel, for he is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues; he makes signs and wonders in heaven and earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of lions.”
My original plan was to write the words and ask you who said it but some of the lines gave it away. 🙂 It is from Daniel 6:26-27.
What struck me, and the note I wrote in my margin is “From the mouth of a pagan.” Then I turned the searchlight on myself and said, “Him not me?” My mind also turned to Jesus’ words. As He entered Jerusalem the donkey and the people were shouting Hosanna and laying down palm branches, the religious leaders told Him to tell the people to (basically) shut up. Jesus’ words? “I tell you, if these were silent, the very stones would cry out.” (Lk.19:40)
Daniel praised God for his deliverance. The pagan king Darius did in his decree. The people of Jerusalem did. Even the stones will. What about me? Will I be one who lets others do what I should do or will I praise Him myself? Will you?
“Father, praise for your goodness and greatness should come from me not from someone else, especially a pagan. Certainly not creation (although it does). May sincere, heart-felt worship come from my lips and my heart today.”
Excellent insight, Bill! I say Amen to your prayer. This is my heart, Abba.
Thanks Diane.
Great question posed here today, Bill. Am I praising the Lord daily, or leaving it up to someone else? Thank you for reminding us to always worship God with our whole hearts.
Blessings!
You’re welcome. I’m reminding myself also Martha.
Praising God is my calling… It is the call of every Christian… am I answering that call?
And THAT my friend is the question to be answered!
Worthy and timely post. To be silent about who our Father is and HIs unfathomable grace is equal to all other sins, maybe worse.
Totally agree Floyd. it is time to speak up and not be silent. Thanks for coming by.