- Dec 20, 2019
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Are you stepping into a new season of life—or looking for guidance on how to stay grounded in your spiritual habits and choose faith over fear during times of change?
Maybe you are starting college, joining a new company, launching a business, or moving to a new state. Change can feel overwhelming. It stirs up a mix of emotions and often challenges our faith in unexpected ways.
Change brings new environments- often pulling us out of our normal routine and into unfamiliar territory. We suddenly face a wave of decisions:
In the midst of all this transition, the most important question becomes:
As we enter a new phase of life, we must prepare- not just practically, but spiritually. Now more than ever, we are invited to choose faith over fear—trusting that God is present in the unknown. What tools will help us not only stay rooted in our faith, but also grow deeper in it?
One of the most inspiring people in the bible can teach us a lot about change, adapting to circumstances, and trusting God through it all.
Daniel, a Jewish exile in Babylon, was chosen by King Nebuchadnezzar to be trained in the royal court- a position that came with major pressure and unfamiliar surroundings.
Can you imagine how uncomfortable this must have been?
Do you think he ever wondered, “Why am I here?” or “What is my purpose in this place?”
Maybe you’re asking those same questions right now. Let’s take a look at how Daniel responded to this unexpected assignment- and how he stayed grounded in truth even when his faith wasn’t welcomed.
Here are 10 takeaways from Daniel’s story:
Daniel’s deep love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived. His devotion wasn’t just a private belief- it shaped his actions, decisions, and priorities. He placed his relationship with God above all else, even in a foreign land and under pressure from a powerful king.
Before we pursue anything else- growth, goals, or guidance- we’re called to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” This kind of love builds trust, fosters dependence, and reminds us that God’s ways are always higher. Daniel’s strength didn’t come from his position or abilities- it came from his unwavering relationship with God.
How can you apply this to your life? How can you make your love for the Lord your strength as you experience upcoming change?
Daniel’s story reminds us that faithfulness often begins with the small, seemingly insignificant choices.
When invited to dine at the king’s table, Daniel refused to eat the food and wine presented because they had been presented to idols- something that went against his beliefs. Instead, Daniel asked the chief official to only provide vegetables and water for him and his fellow servants for ten days. Daniel then asked to be compared in appearance to those who ate the royal food. At the end of the ten days, their appearance was noticeably healthier than those who had eaten the king’s food. When presented to the king, none were found to be their equal.
This shows us the power of honoring God in the little things. It could be as simple as quietly praying before a meal in a crowded space, or as intentional as declining plans that conflict with your values- even if it sets you apart.
Small acts of obedience build a deeper trust in the Lord, and He honors our faithfulness. Just as He provided for Daniel, He will provide for you too! Have faith over fear!
We are each uniquely gifted by the Lord! It’s our responsibility to be good stewards of these gifts and use them to lead others to Him! Daniel and his fellow exiled companions were given special gifts from God. “As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams” Daniel used his gift of interpretation to reveal God’s plan for His people. He was called for a specific purpose- and so are you!
Take a moment to reflect: In what areas of your life are you using the gifts God has given you to lead others to Him? Consider where you excel and what you feel the Lord is guiding you to pursue. As new opportunities arise, build upon the strengths God has placed within you. Live a life marked by faithfulness, prayer, and devotion.
Once Daniel was elected to the king’s service, he was then put in a position to interpret the king’s dreams. After the king’s astrologers and magicians failed to provide an answer, the king ordered all wise men to be executed. In that moment, Daniel stepped forward and asked if he could interpret the dream. The dream explained God’s plan for His kingdom- one that stands in contrast to the kingdoms of the world. Because of Daniel’s interpretation, he was appointed ruler over the entire province of Babylon and placed in charge of all its wise men.
This story shows us that God’s plan is complete, even when we don’t fully understand it. He sees the whole picture, while we can only see a part. As you step into this new season, remember that God’s has a greater plan. We must move forward in faith, confident that the Lord is working behind the scenes.
Where can you step out in faith as you move into this new space? Trust that God has a plan and rest assured knowing that you don’t have to carry the future!
We were created for community!
Before Daniel interpreted the king’s dream, scripture tells us he “went to his house and made the matter known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, and told them to seek mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions might not be destroyed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.” Daniel didn’t try to face the challenge alone- he turned to trusted friends who also believed in the Lord. Together, they sought God’s mercy and wisdom.
In the same way, we need people we can turn to in times of uncertainty and hardship. As you enter this new season, be intentional about surrounding yourself with fellow believers. Community within the body of Christ not only encourages and uplifts- it also gives us a front row seat to seeing how God is at work in the lives of others.
Pursue meaningful connection. Reach out to those who share your love for the Lord. Visit different churches, join a Bible study, or attend a small group- do what it takes to plant yourself in a strong, faith- filled community.
“For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20
When news began to spread that Daniel might be promoted to second in command over the kingdom, the other administrators- jealous of his position- looked for a way to bring him down. Their only option was to target his faith. They convinced the king to issue a decree stating that anyone who prayed to any god or human other than the king over the next thirty days would be thrown into the lions’ den.
Even after this decree was signed, Daniel remained steadfast. He went home, opened his windows, and got down on his knees to pray-just as he always had- three times a day. He lived fearlessly unashamed of his faith, fully aware of the consequences. Daniel displayed his faith over fear of man.
How can you live unashamed in the role you’re stepping into? Enter this new season with confidence in who the Lord is and with boldness in how you live out your faith. Let your life reflect unwavering devotion, no matter the cost.
When the officials found Daniel praying, just as they had planned, he was thrown into the lions’ den. The king, deeply troubled and unable to sleep, rushed to the den at daybreak and called out, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?”
Daniel replied, “O king, live forever! My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.”
Even in the lion’s den, Daniel stood firm in the truth- unshaken and unwavering in his faith.
How can you stand firm in your faith where you are today? It might look like prioritizing daily time in God’s Word, actively participating in Christian community, knowing when to speak truth in conversations, or resisting the pressure to conform to the beliefs of your surroundings.
As you encounter new people and perspectives, pray for discernment. Ask God to plant His truth deeply in your heart so that you can stand with boldness and clarity, no matter the challenge.
One thing we can’t overlook in Daniel’s story is that his people were still in exile- waiting on God’s deliverance. Even as Daniel faced personal trials, he was also living in a larger season of waiting. Through it all, he learned to be patient and trust that God’s timing was perfect.
After spending the night in the lions’ den, Scripture says the king was “ exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.” Can you image the kind of patience Daniel needed during that night? His survival wasn’t based on strategy- it was rooted in complete trust.
If you’re in a waiting season- whether before a big change or after one- hold on. Be patient. Trust that God is still working.
David writes in Psalm 27:13-14, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Take comfort in Daniel’s story. God’s deliverance is sure. There is purpose in the waiting, and what you do in the meantime matters. Keep praying, stay close to the Lord, and trust that He is working all things together for your good.
Our strength is found in the Lord, and His word is our defense against the attacks of the world. Let Scripture be your foundation and your guide.
Daniel built his prayer life on the promises of God. He read the prophesies in Jeremiah, which declared that the people of Israel would be in captivity for seventy years:
“This whole land shall be a desolation and an astonishment, and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years.” Jeremiah 25:11
Even though God had already spoken this through Jeremiah, Daniel still prayed earnestly that God would fulfill His word. He didn’t see the promise as a reason to sit back, but as an invitation to actively seek the Lord through prayer. God’s promises invite our participation- they stir us to pray with boldness and hope.
What promises of God are you holding onto in this new season? Be persistent in prayer. Let God’s Word dwell richly in you, and use the sword of the Spirit to stand against anything that tries to challenge those promises.
One of those most challenging parts of the Christian life is choosing to live differently than the world around us. At the beginning of Daniel’s story, King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold and commanded that all people bow down and worship it whenever they heard the sound of music.
But three Jews- Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego- refused. They were reported to the king for not serving his gods or worshiping the golden image, and as a result, they were thrown into a blazing furnace. Yet when the king looked inside, he saw not three men, but four- one “like a son of the gods.” They came out completely unharmed.
This powerful story reminds us to stand firm in obedience to God, even when the pressure to conform is intense. We’re called to walk in the discernment He provides, holding tightly to truth and resisting the pull of the world.
Remember: there is another in the fire. God is with you in every battle, every trial, and every moment of resistance.
As you step into new spaces and opportunities, stay aware of your surroundings. Be honest with your heart and sensitive to conviction. Listen for the Lord’s voice and have the courage to stand apart- rooted in His truth.
Despite uncertainty being daunting, there is so much in store for you! God has a plan and a purpose! Cling to faith over fear. As you go into this new season, surrender all your control to the Lord. He will hold you and He will provide! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” Spiritual growth with follow when you heart is set fully on Him.
The post Having Faith over Fear in Times of Change appeared first on Focus on the Family.
Continue reading...
Maybe you are starting college, joining a new company, launching a business, or moving to a new state. Change can feel overwhelming. It stirs up a mix of emotions and often challenges our faith in unexpected ways.
Change brings new environments- often pulling us out of our normal routine and into unfamiliar territory. We suddenly face a wave of decisions:
- Who will we spend our time with?
- What will we prioritize?
In the midst of all this transition, the most important question becomes:
- How will we care for our spiritual growth?
As we enter a new phase of life, we must prepare- not just practically, but spiritually. Now more than ever, we are invited to choose faith over fear—trusting that God is present in the unknown. What tools will help us not only stay rooted in our faith, but also grow deeper in it?
Daniel’s Faith Over Fear
One of the most inspiring people in the bible can teach us a lot about change, adapting to circumstances, and trusting God through it all.
Daniel, a Jewish exile in Babylon, was chosen by King Nebuchadnezzar to be trained in the royal court- a position that came with major pressure and unfamiliar surroundings.
Can you imagine how uncomfortable this must have been?
Do you think he ever wondered, “Why am I here?” or “What is my purpose in this place?”
Maybe you’re asking those same questions right now. Let’s take a look at how Daniel responded to this unexpected assignment- and how he stayed grounded in truth even when his faith wasn’t welcomed.
Here are 10 takeaways from Daniel’s story:
Love The Lord
Daniel’s deep love for the Lord was evident in the way he lived. His devotion wasn’t just a private belief- it shaped his actions, decisions, and priorities. He placed his relationship with God above all else, even in a foreign land and under pressure from a powerful king.
Before we pursue anything else- growth, goals, or guidance- we’re called to “love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” This kind of love builds trust, fosters dependence, and reminds us that God’s ways are always higher. Daniel’s strength didn’t come from his position or abilities- it came from his unwavering relationship with God.
How can you apply this to your life? How can you make your love for the Lord your strength as you experience upcoming change?
Be Faithful With the Little Things
Daniel’s story reminds us that faithfulness often begins with the small, seemingly insignificant choices.
When invited to dine at the king’s table, Daniel refused to eat the food and wine presented because they had been presented to idols- something that went against his beliefs. Instead, Daniel asked the chief official to only provide vegetables and water for him and his fellow servants for ten days. Daniel then asked to be compared in appearance to those who ate the royal food. At the end of the ten days, their appearance was noticeably healthier than those who had eaten the king’s food. When presented to the king, none were found to be their equal.
This shows us the power of honoring God in the little things. It could be as simple as quietly praying before a meal in a crowded space, or as intentional as declining plans that conflict with your values- even if it sets you apart.
Small acts of obedience build a deeper trust in the Lord, and He honors our faithfulness. Just as He provided for Daniel, He will provide for you too! Have faith over fear!
Use the Gifts God Has Given You to Lead Others to Him
We are each uniquely gifted by the Lord! It’s our responsibility to be good stewards of these gifts and use them to lead others to Him! Daniel and his fellow exiled companions were given special gifts from God. “As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams” Daniel used his gift of interpretation to reveal God’s plan for His people. He was called for a specific purpose- and so are you!
Take a moment to reflect: In what areas of your life are you using the gifts God has given you to lead others to Him? Consider where you excel and what you feel the Lord is guiding you to pursue. As new opportunities arise, build upon the strengths God has placed within you. Live a life marked by faithfulness, prayer, and devotion.
Be Confident in the Lord’s Plan
Once Daniel was elected to the king’s service, he was then put in a position to interpret the king’s dreams. After the king’s astrologers and magicians failed to provide an answer, the king ordered all wise men to be executed. In that moment, Daniel stepped forward and asked if he could interpret the dream. The dream explained God’s plan for His kingdom- one that stands in contrast to the kingdoms of the world. Because of Daniel’s interpretation, he was appointed ruler over the entire province of Babylon and placed in charge of all its wise men.
This story shows us that God’s plan is complete, even when we don’t fully understand it. He sees the whole picture, while we can only see a part. As you step into this new season, remember that God’s has a greater plan. We must move forward in faith, confident that the Lord is working behind the scenes.
Where can you step out in faith as you move into this new space? Trust that God has a plan and rest assured knowing that you don’t have to carry the future!
Surround Yourself With Believers, Go to Counsel
We were created for community!
Before Daniel interpreted the king’s dream, scripture tells us he “went to his house and made the matter known to Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, his companions, and told them to seek mercy from the God of heaven concerning this mystery, so that Daniel and his companions might not be destroyed with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.” Daniel didn’t try to face the challenge alone- he turned to trusted friends who also believed in the Lord. Together, they sought God’s mercy and wisdom.
In the same way, we need people we can turn to in times of uncertainty and hardship. As you enter this new season, be intentional about surrounding yourself with fellow believers. Community within the body of Christ not only encourages and uplifts- it also gives us a front row seat to seeing how God is at work in the lives of others.
Pursue meaningful connection. Reach out to those who share your love for the Lord. Visit different churches, join a Bible study, or attend a small group- do what it takes to plant yourself in a strong, faith- filled community.
“For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20
Live Unashamed
When news began to spread that Daniel might be promoted to second in command over the kingdom, the other administrators- jealous of his position- looked for a way to bring him down. Their only option was to target his faith. They convinced the king to issue a decree stating that anyone who prayed to any god or human other than the king over the next thirty days would be thrown into the lions’ den.
Even after this decree was signed, Daniel remained steadfast. He went home, opened his windows, and got down on his knees to pray-just as he always had- three times a day. He lived fearlessly unashamed of his faith, fully aware of the consequences. Daniel displayed his faith over fear of man.
How can you live unashamed in the role you’re stepping into? Enter this new season with confidence in who the Lord is and with boldness in how you live out your faith. Let your life reflect unwavering devotion, no matter the cost.
Stand Firm in the Truth
When the officials found Daniel praying, just as they had planned, he was thrown into the lions’ den. The king, deeply troubled and unable to sleep, rushed to the den at daybreak and called out, “O Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to deliver you from the lions?”
Daniel replied, “O king, live forever! My God sent his angel and shut the lions’ mouths, and they have not harmed me, because I was found blameless before him; and also before you, O king, I have done no harm.”
Even in the lion’s den, Daniel stood firm in the truth- unshaken and unwavering in his faith.
How can you stand firm in your faith where you are today? It might look like prioritizing daily time in God’s Word, actively participating in Christian community, knowing when to speak truth in conversations, or resisting the pressure to conform to the beliefs of your surroundings.
As you encounter new people and perspectives, pray for discernment. Ask God to plant His truth deeply in your heart so that you can stand with boldness and clarity, no matter the challenge.
Be Patient in the Waiting
One thing we can’t overlook in Daniel’s story is that his people were still in exile- waiting on God’s deliverance. Even as Daniel faced personal trials, he was also living in a larger season of waiting. Through it all, he learned to be patient and trust that God’s timing was perfect.
After spending the night in the lions’ den, Scripture says the king was “ exceedingly glad, and commanded that Daniel be taken up out of the den. So Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.” Can you image the kind of patience Daniel needed during that night? His survival wasn’t based on strategy- it was rooted in complete trust.
If you’re in a waiting season- whether before a big change or after one- hold on. Be patient. Trust that God is still working.
David writes in Psalm 27:13-14, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Take comfort in Daniel’s story. God’s deliverance is sure. There is purpose in the waiting, and what you do in the meantime matters. Keep praying, stay close to the Lord, and trust that He is working all things together for your good.
Know the Promises of the Lord, Keep Praying
Our strength is found in the Lord, and His word is our defense against the attacks of the world. Let Scripture be your foundation and your guide.
Daniel built his prayer life on the promises of God. He read the prophesies in Jeremiah, which declared that the people of Israel would be in captivity for seventy years:
“This whole land shall be a desolation and an astonishment, and these nations shall serve the king of Babylon seventy years.” Jeremiah 25:11
Even though God had already spoken this through Jeremiah, Daniel still prayed earnestly that God would fulfill His word. He didn’t see the promise as a reason to sit back, but as an invitation to actively seek the Lord through prayer. God’s promises invite our participation- they stir us to pray with boldness and hope.
What promises of God are you holding onto in this new season? Be persistent in prayer. Let God’s Word dwell richly in you, and use the sword of the Spirit to stand against anything that tries to challenge those promises.
Don’t Get Caught up in the Crowd
One of those most challenging parts of the Christian life is choosing to live differently than the world around us. At the beginning of Daniel’s story, King Nebuchadnezzar made an image of gold and commanded that all people bow down and worship it whenever they heard the sound of music.
But three Jews- Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego- refused. They were reported to the king for not serving his gods or worshiping the golden image, and as a result, they were thrown into a blazing furnace. Yet when the king looked inside, he saw not three men, but four- one “like a son of the gods.” They came out completely unharmed.
This powerful story reminds us to stand firm in obedience to God, even when the pressure to conform is intense. We’re called to walk in the discernment He provides, holding tightly to truth and resisting the pull of the world.
Remember: there is another in the fire. God is with you in every battle, every trial, and every moment of resistance.
As you step into new spaces and opportunities, stay aware of your surroundings. Be honest with your heart and sensitive to conviction. Listen for the Lord’s voice and have the courage to stand apart- rooted in His truth.
Challenge For You:
Despite uncertainty being daunting, there is so much in store for you! God has a plan and a purpose! Cling to faith over fear. As you go into this new season, surrender all your control to the Lord. He will hold you and He will provide! “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.” Spiritual growth with follow when you heart is set fully on Him.
The post Having Faith over Fear in Times of Change appeared first on Focus on the Family.
Continue reading...
