Daniel | Adult Bible Study - Fall 2020

RESOLVED

A STUDY OF DANIEL 1-6

RESOLVED:

fixed in purpose, resolute, firmly determined, steadfast, ready to follow God.

Are you ready to embark on a new, exciting adventure in God’s Word?

We are grateful you have decided to join us for Bible Study this year! The Old Testament book of Daniel is full of inspiration and practical application for us today and its visions lay a foundation for Revelation where Calvary’s sermon series is heading this year. The Bible Study is a bit simpler yet refreshing and impactful as we continue to navigate this difficult time. Our prayer is that you will be inspired by this historical account of a faithful man who lived in captivity and discover, once again, how God is in control, directing the forces of nature, the destiny of nations, and the care of his people!

How to Do this Study

In this Bible Study we continue to encourage the use of inductive (discovery) tools to learn how to dig for the treasure that God has given us. Our hope and prayer is that growth in how to study the Bible will give you a greater confidence to navigate its depths and hear from God. A reminder of Bible Study tools is available in this study guide.

Each lesson has been divided into three days of study. This is a suggestion. You may want to break it up or continue on to the next day as you spend time with it. While commentaries can be helpful, we encourage you to use the tools of discovery while seeking the Lord in prayer in order to understand God’s Word. Remember, our minds are finite compared to a God who is infinite in wisdom! Do your best. You may want to try using blueletterbible.org to look at the original meaning and cross-references. You can be a linguist with the touch of a key!

Every lesson ends with a Big Idea to bring the lesson together. You will also find some additional questions to focus on practicing the faith you believe and a prayer to commit yourself and your resolve to fully follow God.

Additional Teaching

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . In each of our lessons in this study guide, you will find a text box indicating Kay Arthur’s sessions that align with our lesson and the one teaching we recommend for you listen to. These are excellent messages and if you have time for all of them, you will be richly blessed! We recommend that you listen after your small group discussion so that the teachings supplement and cement what you have learned.

To obtain free access to these messages through Calvary’s subscription to Right Now Media, please follow the instructions on the following page.

Our prayers for you continue as the adventure begins!

Adult Bible Study Steering Committee

Sara Almeida

Lisa Jonker

Nicki Metcalf

Nancy Samra

Susan Sorensen

Anna Warren

Katie Williams

RIGHTNOW MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS

Accessing Kay Arthur’s teachings on RightNow Media:

1. Go to rightnowmedia.com

2. At the top right, click on “Login” and enter your Username and Password

3. After logging in, click on the top left “Search” option

4. In the Search Library, type in: “Daniel Part 1 and 2”. This will pull up the Daniel study by Kay Arthur. It will pull up as “Dare to Be God’s Messenger”.

5. Scroll down and you will see there are 50 video sessions, all ranging from 25-30 minutes in length. Each Calvary weekly lesson will direct you to which Kay Arther teaching session number aligns with that particular week.

6. If you want to logout, go to the top right “My Profile”, click on it, and then go down to “Logout”

If you need a RightNow Media Account:

Calvary Church has a church-wide subscription and you can get a free RightNow Media account through Calvary. To get an account:

1. Go to rightnow.org/account/invite/CalvaryGRR

2. You will first see a note from Calvary Church, and then the “My Profile” page will need to be filled out with your information.

3. Follow the prompts RightNow Media gives you after you fill in your information on the profile page

4. Make sure to write down the Username and Password you created for yourself! Calvary Church does not keep track of your information. If you lose track of your Username and Password, you will need to go through the process on RightNow Media’s website to retrieve or recreate your Username or Password.

5. After you create your Username and Password, follow the steps above to find the Daniel sessions by Kay Arthur.

RESOLVED

TO KNOW A GOD WHO IS IN

Is God approachable, personal, and intimately involved in the details of our daily lives? Or is He a God beyond our galaxy, wrapped up in the Cosmic Control Center of the universe? In the book of Daniel, we see that He is both! He works in the intimate details of Daniel’s life, equipping, encouraging and empowering him to live well under terribly difficult circumstances. But He also works in the grand scheme of history, unveiling some mysteries while keeping others veiled, all the while reassuring us that He is in control and that no matter how bad things around us seem, we need never to worry because He is working it all together for good.

(Daniel, Engaging God’s Word, page 11)

DAY 1 Placing Daniel in the Timeline of History

As we begin with the historical context of Daniel take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word! (Psalm 119:18)

1. Read Daniel 1:1-2 and verse 21. What do you observe about God, people, places and the time in history?

DAY 1

2. Historical accounts of this period are found in both 2 Chronicles 36 and 2 Kings 23:36-37 through 2 Kings 24. They give insight into the three Babylonian sieges of Jerusalem. The first in 605 BC was when Daniel and his friends were taken captive. The second was in 597 BC and the third in 586 BC when Jerusalem and the Temple were fully destroyed.

a. Read 2 Chronicles 36:5-23 and record the appropriate information below:

Judah’s King Age/Time of Rule Attitude toward God Interaction w/ Nebuchadnezzar

b. What do you observe about the kings’ and the people’s attitudes/actions toward God?

c. What do you observe about God and his actions?

d. Consider the contrast between what God was looking for in his people versus how they acted toward Him. What lessons does God have for us in this passage?

e. Go to the Timeline chart at the beginning of this study guide and identify the Kings of Judah, the Babylonian sieges and captivity, Daniel’s tenure, and note the timing of the writing of the Prophets. Daniel 1:21 tells us Daniel served until the first year of King Cyrus. Find that on the Timeline chart. What details are found in 2 Chronicles 36:22-23?

OPTIONAL: There is an abundance of prophecy about Cyrus who would be God’s servant to bring the Hebrew people back to Judah. You can read the following cross-references and use the Timeline chart to note the approximate time between what was written and when it was fulfilled. What do you learn about God’s plan to use Cyrus? (Isaiah 44:24-28, Isaiah 45:1, 11-13, Jeremiah 25:12-14)

DAY 2 Going Further Back

From the day God made mankind, He gave a choice…to walk humbly, in obedience to God or to be masters of our own lives and live apart from God. When God made His covenant with Israel, He gave the same choice…walk humbly, in obedience to God or disregard Him and His laws. In Deuteronomy 28-30 where Moses urged the people to commit themselves to God, we find the blessings for obedience and the curses for disobedience.

Read Deuteronomy 30:15-20

1. Make two lists that compare the offer of life or death.

Death Life

2. How do we live resolved to choose life according to these verses?

3. What practical ways can we resolve more to know a God who is in control?

DAY 3

God’s Purposes in Exile

The prophet Jeremiah sent a letter to those exiled in Babylon to give direction in their circumstances and hope in future restoration. Read a portion of that letter in Jeremiah 29:1-14.

1. To whom was this letter written?

2. What do you observe about God? (look for names, attributes, what He does)

3. What instructions did God give through Jeremiah for the people in exile?

4. What promises did God give to the people in exile?

DAY 3

5. Jeremiah 29:11 is often quoted and applied as a promise today. It’s important to recognize that the purpose for verse 11 is in verse 12. What is God’s desire for His children?

6. All of the Old Testament points to God’s provision for mankind to be reconciled apart from the Law. What is the Good News found in the New Testament according to John 3:16-17 and Romans 3:21-24?

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger Sessions 1 & 2 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 1 is recommended.

God is sovereign over all creation. Everything happens according to His divine will and plan.

• Not only is God at work in the grand scheme of human history; He is also personally and intimately involved in the details of your life! How have you seen God’s sovereign hand at work in your life?

PRAYER

• We cannot control our circumstances, but we can choose to trust in the God who is sovereign over our circumstances. Are you facing difficult circumstances this week? How might remembering that God is in control change the way you respond to your circumstances?

Sovereign Lord, You have placed me in Your timeline of history. You have a specific plan and purpose for this world and I admit, sometimes I struggle with where I am in life and the circumstances I face. Please forgive me for trying to take up the pen and write my own story and for trying to solve problems in my own strength. Jesus, I ask today that you help me surrender my plans to You so I can see where You are working. Bring my heart into a full understanding of Your will for me as I trust in You and You alone. Help me to remember that You are over all that is happening in this world. You are the God of glorious wisdom, power,

and grace who rules over every moment. I place my faith in the One who is allknowing, all-wise, and all-good. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

“Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name. I will praise you, Lord my God, with all my heart; I will glorify your name forever. For great is your love toward me; you have delivered me from the depths, from the realm of the dead.” Psalms 86:11-13 NIV

RESOLVED

NOT TO BE

(Psalm 119:18)

DAY 1 Daniel’s Training in Babylon

Read Daniel 1:1-7

Daniel was probably just a teenager when he was taken as a captive from Jerusalem to Babylon, more than 500 miles away. He was removed from everything familiar – his family, friends, culture, and way of worship. But Daniel was not removed from God. God remained close to him. In fact, it was in this extremely hostile setting that Daniel’s relationship with God became stronger. From the time we meet Daniel in 605 BC until the end of his story 68 years later, we see Daniel’s wisdom, grace, faith, and integrity. Daniel is one of the few Bible characters about whom no sin is mentioned. He is truly a role model for how to live in troubled times. (Engaging God’s Word – Daniel, page 13)

1. List the descriptions of Daniel and these young Israelites who were to be brought into the king’s service:

2. How were they to be trained and made ready for the king’s service?

As we study Daniel 1, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word!

3. These four young men received new names with new meanings:

Jewish Name Meaning Babylonian Name Meaning

Daniel God is my Judge Belteshazzar Bel, protect his life!

Hananiah the LORD shows grace Shadrach under the command of Aku Mishael who is like God? Meshach who is like Aku? (moon god)

Azariah the LORD helps Abednego servant of Nego/Nebo

What do their old and new names (and their meanings) reveal about the process of changing these young men into Babylonians?

This three-year program’s main goal was to conform these young men to the Babylonian culture….to change their language, thinking, values and gods into those of Babylonians. Think about this. These young men were removed from everything they knew and loved. They were taken as slaves (we can’t forget that in light of the place they are serving). They were stripped of everything they held dear, and they were likely castrated (made eunuchs). Therefore, there was no hope of marriage or being a father. We can quickly read this account and not stop to consider the tremendous losses as they were thrust into a hostile environment.

4. How do we rise above the trials and difficulties in life so that we don’t become bitter but our relationship with God becomes better? What are practical ways we can be intentional in our effort to remain true to our God in difficult circumstances?

DAY 2

Resolved not to be Defiled

Read Daniel 1:8-21

1. What do you observe about the food and wine from this chapter?

2. What do you understand the word “defile” to mean?

Apparently, some of the food Daniel was to consume had been declared unclean in the Mosaic Law (Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14:3-21). It was certainly true that the Law frowned on eating the meat of animals that had been sacrificed to pagan deities (Exodus 34:15, Numbers 25:1-2, Deuteronomy 32:37-38)...

Furthermore, according to eastern traditions, “to share a meal was to commit oneself to friendship.” Given this, it may also have been the case that ‘the defilement Daniel feared was not so much a ritual as a moral defilement, arising from the subtle flattery of gifts and favors which entailed hidden implications of loyal support. (Daniel, Charles Swindoll, page 15)

3. Daniel must have been raised with a strong understanding of God’s Law. Read Deuteronomy 6 and list its commands below:

What were the commands to Daniel’s parents?

4. We can be taught the right thing to do but it’s still hard to resolve to do it! In the NASB, Daniel 1:8 says “Daniel made up his mind.” He literally determined in his mind and heart not to be defiled. Think about this. How might he have become so resolved or determined in this?

5. How can we resist the pressures that can ‘squeeze’ us into conformity with the world?

According to Romans 12:1-2, ‘conformers’ are people whose lives are controlled by pressure from without, but ‘transformers’ are people whose lives are controlled by power from within. Daniel and his three friends were transformers; instead of being changed, they did the changing! God used them to transform the minds of powerful rulers and to bring great glory to His name in a pagan land.

The first step in solving their problem and being transformers was giving themselves wholly to the Lord. Daniel’s heart – the totality of his being –belonged to the Lord as did the hearts of his friends. ‘Keep your heart with all diligence, for out of it springs the issues of life’ (Proverbs 4:23 NKJV).

A heart that loves the Lord, trusts the Lord, and therefore obeys the Lord has no difficulty making the right choices and trusting God to take care of the consequences. It has well been said that faith is not believing in spite of evidence – that’s superstition – but obeying in spite of consequences. When they had to choose between God’s Word and the king’s food, they chose the Word of God.” (Be Resolute, Warren Wiersbe, page 22)

6. a. What does it mean to love the Lord?

b. What does it mean to trust the Lord?

c. What does obeying the Lord look like?

d. How do these things enable us to make right choices?

7. What do these two passages teach us about the importance of where our minds are focused?

Romans 8:1-11

Colossians 3:1-3

8. What are some implications for your life today as you seek to have your mind and heart resolved to follow God?

1. List the process that Daniel went through to not defile himself with the food/wine:

DAY 3

Diplomacy at its Best

2. How else might he have handled this? What were other options? (your ideas may prove humorous, sneaky, underhanded…anything goes!)

3. What did God do for Daniel? What does this reveal about God?

4. Read the following verses. What do you learn about how our Lord provides wisdom, ability and understanding and how we grow in these qualities?

Exodus 35:30-36

Psalm 19:7-11

Psalm 32:8

Colossians 1:9-12

Daniel resolved not to defile himself with food from the king’s table. God honored Daniel’s resolve to remain pure by granting him favor in the sight of the king’s officials.

• It can be challenging to determine how to engage with culture. Which parts of culture can we live with? Which parts of culture should we stand against? How do we decide?

PRAYER

• Daniel was resolved not to defile himself with the things he consumed (i.e. choice foods from the king’s table). As followers of Christ, we too must be wise in the things we choose to “consume” – things like social media, television shows, books, political opinions, news updates, and more. These things can either honor God or defile (pollute) our hearts and minds. Are you a wise “consumer”? How can you remain steadfast in your resolve to honor God with the things you consume? How can you stand firm in your resolve to overcome the defiling influences of this world?

Father God, creator and sustainer of all, You made me and created me to be Your image bearer. You know my innermost thoughts and love and care for me beyond what I can even begin to comprehend. Forgive me for the times in my life that I have grieved the Holy Spirit and gone against what I know was not good for me. Please grant me strength to resist those influences which defile me, wisdom to see what to avoid, and grace to forgive myself. I trust You Lord to restore my health, mind and spirit as I abide in You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

“So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” 1 Corinthians 10:31 NIV

“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own;” 1 Corinthians 6:19 NIV

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger. Sessions 3 & 4 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 3 is recommended.

RESOLVED

TO THE GOD WHO REVEALS MYSTERIES

As you turn from chapter 1 to chapter 2, the atmosphere in the king’s palace changes radically. Chapter 1 closes with recognition and security, but chapter 2 introduces rejection and danger. Because they possessed almost unlimited power and authority, Oriental despots were notoriously temperamental and unpredictable, and here Nebuchadnezzar reveals this side of his character (see also 3:19). However, the hero and major actor in chapter 2 is not King Nebuchadnezzar but the Lord God who “reveals deep and secret things” (v. 22). As you read this chapter, you witness the God of Israel in complete control of every situation and accomplishing His purposes even through superstitious Gentile unbelievers. Note the divine activities that protected His servants and brought glory to His name. (Be Resolute, Warren Wiersbe, page 31)

DAY 1

The Drama Unfolds

Read Daniel 2:1-13

Take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word!

(Psalm 119:18)

1. This true account, like every good story, has five components: the characters, the setting, the plot, the conflict, and the resolution. These parallel our tools of effective Bible Study….the Who? What? Where? When? Why? And How? Let’s use these questions to observe this account well.

Who were the people?

What happened?

Where did this happen?

When did this happen?

Why did this happen? What was the problem?

At this point in the narrative, how was the problem to be resolved?

2. How would you describe Nebuchadnezzar’s attitude in this situation?

3. How would you describe the “wise men”?

4. According to verse 13, Daniel and his friends were part of the “wise men.” What does this reveal about King Nebuchadnezzar’s understanding of the LORD at this point? How would you describe his spiritual beliefs?

5. Have you ever been stymied by a problem that seemed absolutely impossible, yet God made a way? Share with your group how He did it!

DAY 2 Another Solution

Read Daniel 2:14-23

1. Apparently, Daniel and his friends were not in the room when Nebuchadnezzar made this decree, but they soon found out about it. Put yourself in Daniel’s shoes. How would you have felt when the executioner arrived at your door unannounced?!

2. How did Daniel respond to Arioch? What would enable Daniel to respond in this way?

3. List the steps Daniel took to deal with this situation.

4. What did Daniel recruit his friends to do? Why?

5. Daniel knew his Jewish history, how kings and prophets had called the people to turn and seek God in times of peril. He also knew that God was able to do the impossible. We have many promises that God answers prayer today. Here’s a few for you to go to.

Psalm 91:14-15

Jeremiah 33:2-3

James 1:5

1 John 5:14-15

Do you have a verse on prayer that you have turned to? If you don’t have a promise about prayer, try looking in your Bible concordance or google “Bible promises on prayer” and write down one below that is especially meaningful.

“Whatever God can do faith can do,” said A.W. Tozer, “and whatever faith can do prayer can do when it is offered in faith. An invitation to prayer is, therefore, an invitation to omnipotence, for prayer engages the Omnipotent God and brings Him into our human affairs.”

DAY 3 God Revealed!

God did the impossible… He revealed Nebuchadnezzar’s dream and interpretation to Daniel in response to his prayers and those of his three friends. Daniel praised the God of heaven. In the NASB, instead of “praised” and “praise” it says “blessed” and “bless.” The word in Aramaic means “to bless, to kneel, to praise.” We often think of God blessing us but our praise blesses God!

Read Daniel 2:19-23

1. Make a list of every attribute of God (that would be everything that is true about Him). You may want to look up some definitions or go to some of the cross-references in your Bible to enhance meaning.

2. Make this prayer your own prayer of praise. Meditate on the truths about God in each line. Slow down and allow these truths to go deep into your soul and understanding. As the Lord brings to remembrance ways He has shown Himself in these ways in your life, continue to praise His Holy Name!

Without knowledge of the one true God, Nebuchadnezzar and his wisest sages were unable to interpret the king’s dream. Daniel, however, refused to rely upon human wisdom and was resolved to trust in the God who reveals mysteries. God honored Daniel’s humble plea for wisdom, enabling him to rightly identify and interpret the king’s dream.

• Godly friends, wise mentors, and self-help books can be a blessing in times of uncertainty, but God wants us to turn to Him first! Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” What complicated situation are you facing? In what areas of your life do you yearn for God-given wisdom, knowledge, and understanding? Commit your circumstances to the Lord in prayer, trusting in the God “who reveals the profound and hidden things” (Daniel 2:22).

PRAYER

Praise be to you, God, that wisdom and power are Yours and that You invite me in through prayer to make hidden things known. Please forgive me, Lord, for the times in my life when I have sought others’ opinions and not Yours. Today, Lord, I surrender my own agenda and thoughts so that I am able to hear from You and You alone. May You be the first person I turn to when I don’t know what to do. I want to seek you first in prayer before I seek advice elsewhere. Give me the courage to ask others to lift my situation up to You in prayer so that Your advice is always before me. I ask that You enter into the impossible in my life right now and make a way for me to see what You are doing. When I am faced with a mystery in my life, I choose to rest in Your perfect timing and that You will reveal to me what I need to know in the

time frame I need to know it. Please grant me courage to trust and steadfastness in prayer while You work all things out. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

“The Lord says, “I will rescue those who love me. I will protect those who trust in my name. When they call on me, I will answer; I will be with them in trouble. I will rescue and honor them.”

Psalm 91:14-15 NLT

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . Session 5 aligns with this lesson and is highly recommended.

RESOLVED

TO ALL CREDIT TO GOD

Before reading the interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word! (Psalm 119:18)

DAY 1 Mysteries Revealed

In the last lesson we learned that King Nebuchadnezzar had such a distressing dream that he was unable to sleep. He was so troubled by this dream that he assembled the best wise men in Babylon to recount and interpret it for him. When these counselors failed to provide the right answers, Nebuchadnezzar ordered that they, along with all the other wise men of Babylon, be executed. Before the king’s command could be carried out, God revealed the content and interpretation of the dream to Daniel. What the Lord communicated to Daniel forms the backbone of biblical prophecy concerning the rise and fall of the Gentile kingdoms. Although many of the events set forth in the king’s dream have already been fulfilled in history, some are still to occur. We can be confident that those happenings which have not yet taken place will come to pass at the proper time in God’s plan. (Daniel: God’s Pattern for the Future, Charles Swindoll, page 24)

1. Let’s begin by reading the whole account of Daniel 2, marking in a special way two repeated words…. Reveal/revealer/revealed and mystery/mysteries. List below what you observe about the use of these words. Be sure to give where the verses were found.

2. Based on this passage, what is true about God if He reveals mysteries? Be sure to consider this in the context of the prayer of verses 20-23.

3. Look up the following verses to determine what God reveals and what these revelations reveal about our God.

Isaiah 43:10-13 (“revealed” is also translated “declared” depending on the translation)

Isaiah 44:6-8

Romans 16:25-27

Ephesians 1:7-10

Ephesians 3:4-6

Colossians 1:25-27, 2:2-3

4. Daniel had an accurate understanding of who God is in all His glory and who he was as a humble servant. How do you see Daniel giving credit to God?

5. How should these truths about God change the way we follow our God? How should they affect the way we pray? How we look to the future?

Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream

Read Daniel 2:31-35

List what you observe. Then on the diagram, write what you read about the dream by each part of the statue. Draw and place the rock where it should go and write the details next to it.

Read Daniel 2:36-45

List what you observe. Then, on the diagram, add what you learn in these verses about the interpretation of the dream, paying attention to the details given.

Daniel 2 Statue

1. Who is clearly identified as the head of gold? Most commentaries agree about the next kingdoms. List them below if you have a commentary but wait to add them to your diagram as we discover more in the book of Daniel.

2. Going from head to toe, what do you notice about the strength of the statue and the empires represented?

3. List everything you observe about the rock and the details given about this kingdom:

4. Cross-references are especially helpful as we consider this kingdom. Look up the following verses that will add to your understanding: Daniel 7:13-14, 27

1 Corinthians 15:22-28

1 Peter 2:4-10 (This passage incorporates prophetic verses from Psalm and Isaiah)

5. It has been said that history is His Story. What should it mean for us that God is in control of history?

DAY 3

Nebuchadnezzar’s Response

Read Daniel 2:46-49

1. How did King Nebuchadnezzar honor Daniel and Daniel’s God in his response to the dream and its interpretation? List his words and actions.

2. There has been a slight shift in King Nebuchadnezzar’s belief about the LORD God. How would you describe it? What is the difference between knowledge of God and being a true believer?

3. Consider the entire chapter. How was God involved in the affairs of nations? How was God’s care of Daniel and his friends evident? How should both of these truths encourage us today?

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . Sessions 6 & 7 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 7 is recommended.

God gave Daniel the wisdom and knowledge he needed to identify and interpret the king’s dream. Daniel gave all the credit and praise to the “God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (Daniel 2:28).

• Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Daniel’s ability to interpret the king’s dream was a gift from God. What gifts has God given you? How are you using those gifts to do the good works God prepared in advance for you? Spend time praising God for the gifts He has given you.

• In his meeting with Nebuchadnezzar, Daniel said, “You, O king, are the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, the strength and the glory” (Daniel 2:37). Daniel understood that Nebuchadnezzar’s rule was a gift from God. God alone has the authority to remove kings and establish kings (Daniel 2:21). Take some time to pray for leaders in our world. Ask God to reveal His truth to them. Also pray for people like Daniel whom God has placed in positions of influence. Ask the Lord to make them strong in Him, able to influence others with wisdom from above.

Merciful and Sovereign God, thank you for the gifts you have given me through your Spirit to bless and encourage others. In your mercy, You have answered prayers and revealed mysteries to me where without You, I would still be in the dark. When I intentionally stop and think, I have so many blessings in my life for which to thank You. Please forgive me for the times I have not properly given credit to You or glorified Your name when it has clearly been You blessing the situation. I pray that from sunrise to sunset, in each moment of my day today, I am given wisdom from above so that I am able to encourage and share with others the

glorious hope for which You have given me. I also pray for those whom You have placed in positions of authority, not only in my circle of influence but in our whole world. May they see Your hand at work and yield to Your will and purpose in their leadership positions. Unite all our hearts to walk in Your truth and to glorify Your name forevermore. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.

1 Peter 1:13 NIV

RESOLVED

TO IN GOD’S RESCUE AND SERVE HIM ALONE

Before reading about the golden image and the fiery furnace, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word! (Psalm 119:18)

DAY 1 The Fiery Trial

Read Daniel 3

Daniel and his friends had been promoted to leading positions in the government of Babylonian Empire after the dream episode recorded in chapter 2. Surely now they would be in a place of protection and security. Instead, they quickly encounter another life-threatening crisis triggered by the deadly combination of a pagan environment and an egocentric, unpredictable despot. Daniel, who thus far has been the group’s courageous spokesman for the Lord before King Nebuchadnezzar, is absent for some reason, so the weight of this trial falls on his three friends – Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. (Community Bible Study, page 40)

1. Let’s begin by asking the five W and H questions in this fascinating account. Who are the characters? (There is a repeated list of those summoned. Look in a dictionary to distinguish some of these titles. How would you describe those gathered?)

What happened in this account?

When did these events occur?

Where did this happen?

Why did this happen?

How did Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego respond to this trial?

How did God work in this situation?

In this first reading of this account, what stands out to you?

2. We’ve already seen that these young men were firmly rooted in God’s Law. Read through the first part of the 10 Commandments in Exodus 20:1-6 or Deuteronomy 5:6-10. How would worshipping the golden image have violated their convictions? What are some ways people today are guilty of practicing idolatry? What is so appealing about idol worship?

3. If you had been in their shoes, how would you have responded to this command to worship the golden idol? What are examples of dangers we might face today that would require courage like that shown by Daniel’s friends?

DAY 2

The Most High God

1. Go back through the narrative and list everything you observe about God.

2. King Nebuchadnezzar used a title that expressed God’s universal authority, the Most High God. What does his use of this title reveal about what he believed about God at this point? (Daniel 3:25-29)

3. This name of God in Hebrew is, El Elyon, the Supreme, Highest, Most High. Look up the following cross-references. What else do you observe about God Most High?

4. Daniel 2 & 3 contrasted what the gods of Nebuchadnezzar were not able to do with what God was able to do. Look for these contrasts? What is God able to do? What is God able to do for you?

DAY 3 Trust in God’s Rescue

Read again Daniel 3:16-30

1. What was the response of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to this trial? What did their words reveal about their trust in God?

2. What are some ways the young men could have compromised? What might they have said or done to squirm out of their problem?

3. How were Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego men of faith but not men of presumption? How do we act in a like manner?

4. Hebrews 11 is often referred to as the “Faith Hall of Fame.” Read Hebrews 11:1-3, 6, and 32-40 (If you have time, read the whole chapter!) Most scholars believe verse 34 refers to the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in this fiery trial. Verse 35 says, “there were others” who weren’t rescued…but they were all commended for their faith. According to these verses how would you describe the characteristics of faith?

5. What do you observe about this fourth person in the fire? After looking in the text, read Isaiah 43:2-3 to expand your understanding. What promise do we have from God in the midst of every difficult situation in life?

6. How does one grow in resolve to trust in God’s rescue and serve Him alone?

When Nebuchadnezzar commanded everyone in Babylon to worship a pagan image, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were faced with a decision: Would they remain faithful to God, or would they compromise their convictions? Even under threat of death, these three men were resolved to trust in God alone to rescue them from their circumstances.

THE FAITH I BELIEVE

• In 1 Peter 4:12, Peter writes, “Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal among you, which comes upon you for your testing, as though some strange thing were happening to you.” We may not face a fiery furnace, but Peter’s words remind us that we will face “fiery ordeals.” What fiery ordeals (trials) are you facing? What truths from this week’s passage can help you as you endure these trials? (See also 1 Peter 2:18-20 and 2 Peter 2:4-10).

• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego trusted in God’s ability to deliver them from the fiery furnace. Furthermore, these men were resolved to trust in God’s character even if He chose not to rescue them!

God is always able to rescue, although He may only do so in the life to come. This means that although some of our prayers for healing, restoration, and resolution will not be answered here on earth, they will be finally and fully answered in heaven. For now, though our circumstances may change, we can trust in the character of an unchanging God who is sovereign over our circumstances.

Make a list of the attributes of God that provide hope and encouragement in times of trial. Spend time praising God for these attributes, acknowledging His goodness in the midst of life’s storms.

PRAYER

Most High God, You are with me always even when I cannot see you. As soon as I step into a trial and place my trust in You, there I see You beside me! Thank you for never leaving me or forsaking me despite my wandering heart and wavering faith. Please forgive me for the times when I have responded to difficulties with fear or lack of faith. Grow my roots of faith so deeply in Truth that I am able to withstand the furnace of affliction and react to trials in a new way that brings honor and glory to Jesus. Teach me Your way, Your truth, and Your life so I can stand firm upon the Rock as the world crumbles and grasps at idols. For You have said You have a specific place for those who despise authority. Therefore, it is my heart’s desire to submit to Your

authority and serve You and You alone, leaving any disobedience in the past. I trust You Jesus, my Lord and my God, to carry me through whatever it is I may face as I abide in You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

“But now, this is what the Lord says— he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: “Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.”

Isaiah 43:1-3a NIV

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . Sessions 8, 9 & 10 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 9 is recommended.

RESOLVED

TO WITH KINDNESS AND LOVE

One of the most intriguing portions of the Bible is the fourth chapter of Daniel. Right away you will see that this section was written by King Nebuchadnezzar as a proclamation to the people of every nation and language on the earth. The monologue relays a dream and its fulfillment that highlights our God’s sovereignty. This week, we will spend time on the first part of this passage, learning about the dream and the daunting task of interpreting it. It’s always easier to share good news than bad news! Watch as Daniel speaks truth clearly with kindness and love.

DAY 1 King Nebuchadnezzar’s Letter of Proclamation

Read Daniel 4:1-3

Before reading the first part of the account by Nebuchadnezzar, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word! (Psalm 119:18)

1. Daniel inserted a letter/proclamation from Nebuchadnezzar that follows a similar pattern to other letters in the Bible. Who is it from? Who is it to?

2. What was the purpose of the letter?

3. What truths about God did Nebuchadnezzar list here at the beginning?

4. If you were going to send a letter with a similar starting sentence, how would you finish it?

“It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me…..”

DAY 2 The Dream of a Tree

Read Daniel 4:4-18

1. King Nebuchadnezzar now goes back in time to share what happened. How was his life at this time? How did the dream affect him?

2. Once again, the wise men provided no help to Nebuchadnezzar but then Daniel came into the King’s presence. List everything Nebuchadnezzar said about Daniel (include titles, descriptions, etc.):

Nebuchadnezzar repeated several times, “the spirit of the holy gods is in him,” but a better translation is “Spirit of the holy God is in him.” How does this change the meaning?

3. What was the dream? (If you’d like to give it a try, draw a picture of this vision!)

DAY 2

4. How do we know at this point that the stump was actually a person?

5. What was the purpose of the verdict or decree?

6. God is sovereign over all the kingdoms of the earth. Look up a definition of sovereignty and write it below. And then look up the following crossreferences to learn more about God’s rule and reign.

Psalm 33:6-11

Psalm 83:18

Psalm 139:13-16

Isaiah 46:9-10

John 19:10-11

7. How should an understanding of God’s sovereignty affect the way we live?

DAY 3 Daniel Interprets with Kindness and Love

Read Daniel 4:19-27

1. What words describe Daniel’s reaction to the dream?

2. Describe the details of Daniel’s interpretation.

3. How did Daniel speak the truth with love and kindness? How did he give the interpretation? How did he give advice?

4. What is our responsibility to speak God’s truth in the world today? What can we learn from Daniel’s example in this week’s passage? Consider the instructions in the following verses as well: Ephesians 4:15, Colossians 4:5-6, and 1 Peter 3:15-16.

5. Look for any references to time. What are they? Consider the words “until” and “when” in verses 24-27. What is God looking for in Nebuchadnezzar? How is this true for us today?

When asked to interpret Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, Daniel identified the king’s sinfulness and called him to treat his people with righteousness and mercy. God’s Spirit empowered Daniel to do what the pagan sages could not – to speak the truth to King Nebuchadnezzar with kindness and love.

THE FAITH I BELIEVE

• Webster’s American Dictionary of the English Language defines pride as “in-ordinate self-esteem; an unreasonable conceit of one’s own superiority in talents, beauty, wealth, accomplishments, rank or elevation in office.” The Holman Bible Dictionary goes even further, stating that “pride is rebellion against God because it attributes to self the honor and glory due to God alone.”

Spend time in prayer, asking God to search your heart for hidden pride. In what areas of your life do you demonstrate an “unreasonable conceit of [your] own superiority” – career, family, accomplishments, wealth, etc.? In what ways do you seek to win for yourself the glory and honor that rightfully belong to God? Confess these things to the Lord, trusting that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9).

Abba Father, oh how You pour Your grace and mercy over me each morning that I wake! From generation to generation throughout scripture, I see your hand upon Your children, Your heart ultimately desiring a deeper, more intimate relationship with each one of us. I know my relationship with You can only grow if I am honest with myself and with You. I ask now that You show me in the quietness of my heart where I have fallen short. Open my eyes to real Truth so that I may renounce my sins and enter into a deeper relationship with You. It is in that repentant pose I will find Your love and forgiveness waiting for me so I may pass on acts of kindness and words of love to

others. Thank You for the gift of grace through forgiveness of sins so I may be transformed from within and begin anew. Please gift me the courage to speak Truth in love and may my conversations always be full of the fragrance of Jesus. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen

“Come now, let us reason together,” says the LORD. “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool. Isaiah 1:18 NIV

“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:6 NIV

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger Sessions 11 & 12 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 12 is recommended.

RESOLVED

TO WALK IN BEFORE GOD

This is a unique chapter in the Bible because it’s an official autobiographical document, prepared by the king of Babylon and distributed throughout his vast kingdom. That Nebuchadnezzar should openly admit his pride, his temporary insanity, and his beastly behavior, and then give glory to the God of Israel for his recovery, is indeed a remarkable thing. He learned an important lesson the hard way just as people are learning it the hard way today: “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall”

(Proverbs 16:18). (Be Resolute, Warren Wiersbe, page 61)

DAY 1 The Dream Fulfilled

Before continuing in Daniel 4, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word!

(Psalm 119:18)

Read Daniel 4:28-37 (or read the entire chapter if you have time)

1. Look for any references to time in this section and write them below. What happened at each point in time?

2. Why do you think a whole year passed between the interpretation of the dream and its fulfillment? (for one possibility read 2 Peter 3:9)

3. What holds us back from repenting even when we recognize our wrong-doing?

DAY 2 Nebuchadnezzar’s Transformation

1. Compare Nebuchadnezzar’s attitude at the beginning of this section with verse 34 and the end of the chapter. How did his attitude and belief change in this time of humbling?

2. The last verse is a sobering reality in light of God’s sovereign rule…. “Those who walk in pride, He is able to humble.” How much better to humble ourselves before this Sovereign God! Read a few more verses about humility and submission to God’s rule and reign in our lives. List the commands and promises.

3. Have you been given a second chance by God’s grace? Or maybe a 3rd or 4th chance? What has God shown you in the journey about humbling oneself before the living God?

James 4:6-10

1 Peter 5:6-10 Hebrews 12:5-11

DAY 3

God’s Sovereign Rule and Reign

1. There may be prophetic significance to this account in Daniel 4. The Bible is clear that most nations and people walk in rebellion against God but all will be brought under Christ’s authority.

Read Psalm 2. What do you observe about the nations? About God? About how we are to “celebrate His rule with trembling” (v. 11)?

2. God’s judgment on King Nebuchadnezzar brought him to the recognition of God’s sovereignty. This is a picture of God’s judgment on the nations to bring them under Christ’s rule and reign at the end of time.

Read Revelation 11:15-18. What has been accomplished?

3. Reread Daniel 4:34-35 and list every truth about God. What have you learned in this lesson about our God that is most impactful to you right now? How should that truth, if fully believed, affect the way one lives?

By acknowledging God’s sovereignty and repenting of his own pride, Nebuchadnezzar demonstrated a resolve to walk in humility before God. God honored Nebuchadnezzar’s repentance and resolve by restoring his reason and kingship.

THE FAITH I BELIEVE

• As in all matters of godly living, Jesus is the ultimate example of how to live humbly before God. Philippians 2:5-8 provides a powerful portrait of Christ-like humility: “Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus, who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men. Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.”

What do you learn about true, Christ-like humility from these verses?

In what areas of your life is God inviting you to “have this attitude in [yourself] which was also in Christ Jesus?” How can you demonstrate Christ-like humility in your home, workplace, ministry, relationships, etc.?

Almighty Father, in Your mercy and never-ending grace, You have patiently waited for me to come into an understanding of your true sovereignty over all things in my life. Every last bit of it is under Your authority, not one moment goes by without You being a part of it. Like a parent disciplining a child, You have shown love to me through giving me a chance to change my ways and humble myself before you. But in my stubbornness and pride I have been unwilling to submit to Your authority. I can see it clearly in Nebuchadnezzar’s story and I pray You soften my heart so I can see where you’re working in mine. Lord, please forgive my unwillingness to surrender my anxieties, worries, and

plans into Your care. And forgive me for trusting in my abilities, finances and ‘things’ of this world that make me think I don’t need You. I trust in Your Word when You say, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” I therefore release my whole life into Your care. I open my clenched hands so I can hang on to Yours and feel freedom, joy and peace. For today is the day I choose to surrender it all and walk humbly with You. In Jesus’ name, amen.

“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”

James 4:10 NIV

“Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”

1 Peter 5:7 NIV

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger Sessions 13, 14, 15 & 16 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 15 is recommended.

RESOLVED

After the death of Nebuchadnezzar in 562 B.C., the Babylonian Empire began to deteriorate. The spiritual lessons Nebuchadnezzar had learned while king were generally not heeded by the monarchs that followed him. Consequently, the stage was set for Babylonia to be conquered by an inferior nation, just as Daniel had predicted many years before (Daniel 2:39). The fifth chapter of the Book of Daniel records the fall of Babylon and the death of the last Babylonian king, Belshazzar. We will discover that the Babylonians’ pride and arrogance led to the defeat of their mighty kingdom and its seemingly impregnable capital. We will also find that this ancient story has some important lessons to teach us about the justice and sovereignty of God and the power of a godly life. (Daniel: God’s Pattern for the Future, Charles Swindoll, page 44)

Before reading Daniel 5, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word!

(Psalm 119:18)

BABYLONIAN KINGS – FROM NEBUCHADNEZZAR TO BELSHAZZAR

• Nebuchadnezzar reigned from 605-562 BC (mentioned many times throughout the OT, especially in Jeremiah 21-52 and Daniel 1-5)

• Awel-Marduk reigned from 562-560 BC (mentioned in 2 Kings 25:27; Jeremiah 52:31)

• Nergal-Sharezer reigned from 560-556 BC (mentioned in Jeremiah 39:3, 13)

• Labashi-Marduk reigned in 556 BC (no biblical reference)

• Nabonidus reigned from 556-539 BC (no biblical reference)

• Belshazzar reigned from 550-539 BC (mentioned in Daniel 5, 7, and 8)

Read Daniel 5

DAY 1

Learning From the Past

1. Daniel 5 begins abruptly, with no reference to Nebuchadnezzar’s death or the four Babylonian kings who reigned before Belshazzar.

a. How does Daniel 4 end? (Refer to verses 34-37)

b. How does Daniel 5 begin? (Refer to verses 1-4)

It is interesting to note that the events described in Daniel 5 and 7-8 (which we will study next semester) are not recorded in chronological order. Belshazzar’s feast (recorded in Daniel 5) took place at the very end of King Belshazzar’s reign, in the hours before his death. In contrast, the events recorded in Daniel 7 and 8 took place at the beginning of Belshazzar’s reign. This means that instead of telling the story in chronological order, Daniel chose to place his account of Belshazzar’s feast right after the events described in Daniel 4.

2. Compare and contrast the story of King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 1-4) with the story of King Belshazzar. (Refer back to previous lessons as needed.) What do these stories have in common? What differences do you notice?

King Nebuchadnezzar King Belshazzar

3. What point might Daniel have been trying to make by putting Belshazzar’s story immediately after Nebuchadnezzar’s?

Although Daniel 5 refers to Nebuchadnezzar as Belshazzar’s father, many Bible scholars believe that Belshazzar was actually Nebuchadnezzar’s maternal grandson. The Jewish terms for “father” and “son” can refer to distant ancestors

DAY 2

Being Set Apart

or descendants. Regardless of their relationship, Daniel makes it clear that King Nebuchadnezzar’s story was intended to serve as an example to his descendants. In verse 22, Daniel says, “Yet you, his son, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, even though you knew all this” (italics added).

4. How could understanding the past (his grandfather’s judgment and repentance) have helped Belshazzar understand the present more clearly?

5. Just as King Belshazzar had an opportunity to learn from how God dealt with King Nebuchadnezzar, so we are given examples (both good and bad!) from which to learn humility and repentance, especially in the pages of Scripture.

a. In what ways have you seen spiritual wisdom passed down (or not!) through generations? Spend time in prayer, thanking God for the examples He has provided.

b. How is God calling you to leave a godly legacy for future generations? Ask God to renew your resolve to live for Him, so that your life might be an example to others.

Just two days before Belshazzar’s feast, the army of the Medes and the Persians had conquered Opis (a town about 50 miles north of Babylon), as well as the nearby town of Sippar. While Belshazzar feasted with his nobles, the same army was likely encamped just outside the city of Babylon. Belshazzar, however, was unconcerned. After all, his city was fortified by a complex series of walls; it was protected by bronze gates and numerous defense towers; it had an ample water supply, thanks to the Euphrates River that flowed through the city; and there was sufficient food stored within the city walls.

DAY 2

1. Proverbs 18:11-12 states, “A rich man’s wealth is his strong city, and like a high wall in his own imagination. Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, but humility goes before honor.” In what ways can having our physical needs met (having plenty to eat and drink, etc.) cause us to turn away from God?

2. The word “desecrate” means to treat a sacred thing with disrespect or irreverence. How did Belshazzar desecrate the items from the temple at his feast? (consider Daniel 1:2 as well)

3. What does Belshazzar’s desecration of the golden vessels reveal about his heart? His attitude toward God? Refer to Daniel 5:22-23.

4. The golden vessels used during Belshazzar’s feast were intended to be set apart for service in Yahweh’s Temple. Although we may not venerate things like the golden vessels, our very lives are intended to be set apart in service to the one true God. Read the following verses and record what you observe about being set apart.

a. Exodus 19:3-6

b. Romans 12:1

c. 1 Peter 1:14-16

d. 1 Peter 2:9

5. Do we have things today that God intended to be used in His spiritual service that people use in secular or unspiritual ways?

6. In 2 Timothy 2:21, Timothy writes, “Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from these things, he will be a vessel for honor, sanctified, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” You are a living vessel, set apart to bring glory to the Most High God! Ask God to reveal ways in which you can be useful to your Master and prepared for every good work He has planned for you.

Re-read Daniel 5:17-31

1. How did Daniel respond to King Belshazzar’s offer of gifts? How does this reveal a commitment to please God, not man?

2. What charges are leveled against King Belshazzar?

3. Consider the interpretation of the words written on the wall. What does each word’s meaning highlight about God?

4. How did Belshazzar respond to Daniel’s interpretation of the handwriting on the wall? What did he do? What did he fail to do?

5. What happened “that very night”?

On one hand, Belshazzar’s death was God’s divine judgment upon a king who refused to humble himself before the Lord of heaven. Belshazzar was “weighed on the scales and found deficient” – both in comparison to Nebuchadnezzar and according to what God required from him. On the other hand, a larger story was unfolding as well. The Lord had used the Babylonians to chasten His people, Israel, for their wickedness. Now He was going to use foreign armies to bring about the fall of the Babylonian empire. This event was predicted by prophets in the Old Testament.

6. Read the following passages and record what you learn about the fall of Babylon.

a. Isaiah 13:17-22

b. Jeremiah 51:1-4, 11-12 (If you’re interested in further study, read the whole chapter.)

7. James 4:6 states that “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” How have you seen these principles at work in the lives of Daniel, Nebuchadnezzar, and Belshazzar?

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . Sessions 17, 18 & 19 align with this lesson. If you can only listen to one, Session 18 is recommended.

Belshazzar refused to humble himself before the one true God, choosing instead to revel in worldly things. In contrast, Daniel refused to accept temporal rewards for interpreting the message on the wall, choosing instead to faithfully communicate God’s message of judgment. Daniel’s actions demonstrate a resolve to please God rather than men.

THE FAITH I BELIEVE

• In Galatians 1:10, Paul writes, “For am I now seeking the favor of men, or of God? Or am I striving to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a bond-servant of Christ.” We cannot serve both God and man! Like Daniel, we must be resolved to please God, even when it requires us to stand up to others or to stand alone.

When have you faced a situation that required you to choose to please God rather than men? How did that situation resolve? How did God strengthen you for the task?

• Do you struggle with a desire to seek the favor of men? Consider what might be at the root of this – i.e. a desire for other’s approval, fear of conflict, etc. Confess these things to the Lord, asking Him to renew your resolve to please Him.

Most High God, I sit in awe of Your grand plan and how you purpose every rise and fall in my life to direct me to You. I reflect with deep gratitude Your many blessings and gifts of daily provisions, including the very breath in my lungs today. You have given me another day of life, one where I am given the opportunity to choose Your path or the world’s. Forgive me Lord for times in my life I have chosen the things of this world and trusted they would bring me comfort, advice and protection. I see now that they only bring death. I pray today You make me so aware of the Holy Spirit within me that I immediately turn to You in times of need and give You praise where praise is due. Give me an undivided heart so that I am able to bring honor

and glory to Your name in the things that I say, the ways that I act, and how I treat the things that are in my care. Help me to release my grasp of temporary idols that get in the way of serving You, my one true God. You know what is best for me, You look into my heart and I trust You will lead me in the Way everlasting. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

“Teach me your way, Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness; give me an undivided heart, that I may fear your name.” Psalms 86:11 NIV

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.” Psalms 51:10-11 NIV

RESOLVED

TO TO GOD

This week’s study reminds us of God’s awesome power and sovereignty. Like the chapters before it, Daniel 6 recounts a vivid story of faith and courage in a pagan culture. The aged Daniel, probably in his 80s, stood for what he believed, despite the consequences. And God miraculously delivered him! (Engaging God’s Word, page 69)

DAY 1 Daniel’s Challenge

Read Daniel 6:1-9

Before reading Daniel 6, take a moment to still your heart before the Lord and ask Him to open your eyes that you may see wonderful things in His Word!

(Psalm 119:18)

1. From these first nine verses, what do you observe about Daniel’s position and character?

2. What do you observe about the satraps and administrators.? Why were they scheming against Daniel?

3. They could find no grounds for accusing Daniel because he was faithful (NASB) or trustworthy (NIV). How would you define faithful and trustworthy? What are the characteristics and behaviors that flow out of someone who is faithful and trustworthy?

DAY 1

For additional insight, consider the verses in Daniel and the following crossreferences.

Exodus 18:19-22

Proverbs 11:13

Proverbs 25:13

1 Timothy 3:11

4. If you were under the spotlight like Daniel, what would your enemies say of your character? Considering the above verses, would you be considered faithful and trustworthy?

DAY 2 Daniel’s Faithfulness in Prayer

Thankfully, God is gracious and always willing to do His good work in and through us! Consider Psalm 51:10,12 where King David prays… “Create in me a pure heart, O God and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.” Make this your prayer!

Read Daniel 6:10-18

1. What did Daniel do when he learned about the decree?

2. Daniel is an amazing example of a dedicated prayer life. Let’s look at what we observe of Daniel’s prayer life and what these other verses say about the why, when, where, and how of prayer.

a. WHY did Daniel pray?

Hebrews 4:14-16

James 4:7-10

1 John 5:14-15

b. WHEN did Daniel pray?

Psalm 5:1-3

I Thessalonians 5:16-18

Matthew 14:23

c. WHERE did Daniel pray?

Psalm 63:6

Matthew 6:5-6

d. HOW did Daniel pray?

Luke 11:1-4

John 10:27

Colossians 4:2

Philippians 4:4-7

3. What lessons can we learn from Daniel about the practice of prayer in our own lives?

4. What do you observe about King Darius’ words and actions? How has he been impacted by Daniel’s life?

5. It’s hard to imagine what was going through Daniel’s mind as he was thrown into the Lion’s Den. How do we resolve to stay true to God when we are thrown to the lions?! (1 Peter 4:12-19)

DAY 3

Daniel’s Deliverance

1. How did God miraculously intervene?

2. List everything the King did and said in the order it occurred (make sure to note references to time):

3. This event demonstrated the faith of Daniel. What lessons about faith can we learn from this?

4. A new decree was issued that all people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel. What does it mean to fear and reverence our God Almighty? What does the fear and reverence of God look like in your life?

Daniel demonstrated his resolve to stay true to God by continuing to worship in spite of the king’s edict. The one true God rescued Daniel and used Daniel’s faithfulness as a witness to the pagan king and the pagan culture.

• Warren Wiersbe writes, “The most important part of a believer’s life is the part that only God sees, our daily private time of meditation and prayer.” In what ways do you agree or disagree with this statement? Spend some time thinking about the part of your life that only God sees. Do you have a daily private time? Do you spend time with the Lord each day in meditation and prayer? If not, how can you make time in your schedule to simply be with the Lord?

• As Daniel faced the threat of the lion’s den, he could look back on his spiritual journey and remember God’s faithfulness. Make a list of the ways Daniel experienced/witnessed God’s faithfulness throughout his life, according to Daniel 1-6. In what ways have you experienced God’s faithfulness in your own spiritual journey? How can these experiences strengthen and encourage you as you face trials today?

PRAYER

Lord, You are the living God! There is nothing out of Your control and nothing is out of Your reach. You are a refuge, a shield, and You rescue those in need. There are days when I feel the world’s statutes upon me, pressing in on every side and I feel discouraged and without hope. Forgive me for shrinking in defeat instead of pressing into You through prayer. I ask that You restore me today, develop in me a heart for prayer that reaches for Your mighty right hand, graciously extended to me so I can be filled with wisdom and knowledge through your Spirit. Help me to stay true to You, holding firmly to my faith in Jesus Christ, even if it means I may suffer temporary consequences. I would much rather be

pleasing in Your sight than compliant to the world around me. Thank You Jesus for miraculously calling me out of darkness and into glorious Light. Because I have You with me, I shall not fear the days ahead for I can do all things through You who strengthens me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”

Philippians 4:13 NLT

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Romans 12:2 NIV

On Right Now Media you can access Kay Arthur’s teachings on Daniel: Dare to Be God’s Messenger . Session 20 is recommended.

RESOLVED

As we close the first six chapters of Daniel, take a moment to reflect on all you have gleaned from Daniel’s life and faithfulness to God…and God’s faithfulness to him!

Re-read or skim through Daniel 1-6 asking the Lord to highlight the following for you:

1. What was the biggest theme or lesson in Daniel 1-6 for you?

2. Which chapter had the greatest impact on you? Why?

3. What did you learn from Daniel’s prayer life that you would like to do more consistently?

4. What did you learn about God? His attributes?

5. If you could put yourself into one of the stories, who would you be? Why?

6. What did you learn about being resolved to follow God?

RESOLUTIONS

As a young man, Jonathan Edwards resolved to honor God with his life.

After graduating from Yale University in 1722, Edwards began to prepare for his vocational life as a pastor. Though he was only 19 years old, Jonathan Edwards was keenly aware of his need for radical dependence upon God. To this end, the young man composed a list of 70 resolutions – ways in which he would endeavor to conduct his life for the glory of God. These resolutions addressed things like prayer, time management, relationships, and more. For example, one of Edwards’ resolutions regarding Bible study reads: “Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of the same.” Although Jonathan Edwards compiled these resolutions in his journal over a period of months, all 70 were recorded before his 20th birthday! Edwards returned to his list of resolutions each week as part of his ongoing prayer and devotional life.

Jonathan Edwards went on to become one of the most influential pastors of the 18th century. He was involved in the First Great Awakening and famously delivered a sermon entitled “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God.” Truly Jonathan Edwards was resolved to follow God.

(You can read all of Jonathan Edwards’ resolutions at desiringgod.org/articles/the-resolutions-of-jonathan-edwards)

Our study this semester has caused us to consider ways in which Daniel and his friends were resolved to follow God, regardless of their circumstances.

1. How might the Lord be inviting you to grow in your resolve to follow Him? Prayerfully reread the titles of our lessons. Ask the Lord to impress one of these resolutions upon your heart. Write your resolution below:

2. What are some things that prevent you from standing firm in your resolve to follow God? (Examples might include fear, time restrictions, old habits, etc.)

3. Jonathan Edwards’ list of resolutions begins with these words: “Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God’s help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these Resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ’s sake.”

Like Jonathan Edwards, we are unable to do anything without God’s help! We, too, must ask for God’s grace as we resolve to follow Him. Write a prayer of resolution to the Lord. Acknowledge your need for His help as you endeavor to stand firm. Ask God to give you strength and grace as you resolve to follow Him.

4. Now consider sharing your resolution with a spouse, friend, mentor, small group leader, etc. godly accountability and prayer support are so helpful as you resolve to follow God!

Almighty and Sovereign God, You are compassionate, faithful, unwavering and just. You are a way-maker, able to break any chain that holds me back from having a real and deeper relationship with a You. From sunrise to sunset, You are a part of every life, every breath, every emotion, and every circumstance and nothing escapes Your watchful eye. You have opened my eyes to Your truth through the book of Daniel and I pray as I end this study that I do not leave unchanged. Cause my heart to recognize that You are calling me into repentance and restoration through the cleansing of your Word. For You do not want this to be just a study of the Scriptures but a transformation of the heart. Forgive my stubbornness and hard-heartedness, where my pride is resistant to change. Forgive me for the many times I have not sought You first, for idols I have allowed to take Your place, and for not recognizing You as sovereign over my life. You are transforming me, You are transforming this world, and I praise Your name that I am able to count on You to bring all things under Your control. You have taught me week after week to be resolved, resolved to follow, trust and submit to You. Give me the courage to let You search my whole heart in order to identify areas in my life where I need to

submit to Your authority and let Your will be done. Your Word is alive and powerful, able to penetrate and expose any dark areas that need Light. I acknowledge my need for You and thank You that You never forsake me despite my failings. I trust that You go before me and will be with me so I need not not fear what lies ahead. Thank You for the gift of grace, the power of Your forgiveness, the inspiration of Your Word, and the wonderful fellowship of believers. Help me each day to remember who I am in Christ, who You created me to be, and strengthen me from within so I can bring honor and glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

“‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’”

Jeremiah 33:3 NIV

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.””

Deuteronomy 31:8 NIV

“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”

Hebrews 4:12 NIV

Inductive Bible Study Tools

Ask God to clear your mind, settle your heart and help you to see what He wants you to see “But when he, the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” (John 16:13)

What does the text say? What do I see?

1. Read and reread the passage

Read thoughtfully to see what it says

Read imaginatively (put yourself in the story, what would you see?)

2. What to look for: Things that are emphasized Things that are repeated

Things that are alike and unlike Things that are true to life

Who? What? Where? When? Why? How?

3. Make lists

What do you learn about God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit? What do you learn about mankind? Those who follow Jesus?

Good observation will give the basic building blocks to construct the meaning of the passage.

What does it mean? What are the lessons that God is giving?

1. Context: What is the “therefore”, there for?

2. Comparison: cross-references, word studies

3. Culture: commentaries may give insight

4. Consultation: Bible Dictionary, Concordance, Online Tools like blueletterbible.org

How does this work? What does it mean for me?

1. Is there an example for me to follow?

2. Is there a sin to avoid?

3. Is there a promise to claim?

4. Is there a prayer to repeat?

5. Is there a command to obey?

6. Is there a condition to meet?

7. Is there a verse to memorize?

8. Is there an error to mark?

9. Is there a challenge to face?

What is God communicating to you through these verses and this section of scripture?

How does He want this to affect how you live your life this week?

Allow God’s Word to transform you into the likeness of Christ!