Text: Daniel 10:1-21

Dear Young People,

AN ANGELIC TEACHER
The knowledge that Daniel already possessed was phenomenal. The Lord had given him knowledge that few possessed. Graciously, God had given Daniel many visions in which He revealed His plans for the far distant future.

He had pleaded for further wisdom to understand the latest vision. No human being had the ability to teach Daniel the meaning of the vision that God had given him. There was only one thing to do. He sent an angel to be his teacher.

"Suddenly a hand touched me,
which made me tremble on my knees
and on the palm of my hands. And he said to me,
'O Daniel, man greatly beloved, understand the words
that I speak to you, and stand upright,
for I have now been sent to you.'
While he was speaking this word to me, I stood trembling."
Daniel 10:10-11

THE AFFECTION THAT GOD HAD FOR DANIEL
Daniel was held in high esteem by the Lord. He was also dearly loved by the Lord. Few have been addressed with such affection. What a thrill it must have been to be called, "Man greatly beloved".

It was more than words of commendation that God gave to Daniel. He knew that deep down in his heart, Daniel's greatest joy would be to comprehend the vision-word that he had been given by the Lord. Thus an angel was sent to teach him.

WHY GOD LOVED DANIEL THE WAY HE DID
Would it be very difficult to come up with some reasons as to why God loved Daniel so dearly? What are some reasons we can come up with? Let's highlight three.

1. Determination to be True to God

From a very young age, Daniel determined in his heart that he would always be faithful and true to God (Cf. Daniel 1:8). He was consistent in his commitment to walk in the ways of God throughout his long life!

2. Determination to Keep in touch with God in prayer

Daniel was a man of prayer. He defied an official decree not to pray to anyone except the king. Daniel continued to pray to God even though he knew he risked losing his life (Cf. Daniel 6).

3. A Deep love for Truth

Few had the kind of love for God's truth as Daniel displayed in his life! But of course God loved Daniel as He did.

Prayerfully,                                                                             

Pastor Charlie

First released 14th July 2002, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore