We cringe at the thought of scrutiny, adversity, and rejection. We naturally take the road of ease over the journey of consequence. But adversity to Christianity is not simply a tool, it’s God’s most effective tool for the advancement of the gospel. The events that we see as setbacks are often times the very things that launch us into periods of immense spiritual growth and impact. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever been in a situation where you faced consequences for doing something right thing? Tell a story about a time when you had to choose between doing what was right and what was easy.
Read: Daniel 6; Psalm 119:1-4; Ephesians 6:10-20; 2 Timothy 2:22-26; 1 Peter 5; 2 Peter 2
Discuss:
1. Daniel 6 begins with a transition of kings and kingdoms (Babylon to Persia). Describe the context of Darius’ reign. How old is Daniel at this point? What does it tell you about Daniel’s character by the fact that he remained in his high position even after being conquered by a new kingdom (Persia)? How did Darius view Daniel?
2. Read Daniel 6:4-5. It says that they found Daniel without any fault. Do you have any faults that would stand out in your life? If so, name a few. How many of your faults are in the past and unchangeable? What one fault did the satraps find with Daniel? Describe why they were so jealous? What is the difference between jealousy and envy? Have you ever had anyone jealous over your life? Have you ever been jealous over someone else’s?
3. What was Daniel’s response to the decree that he could not pray to anyone but Darius for 30 days? How can we follow his example when we encounter rules that make it challenging to be faithful to how God has called us to live? List some of the Biblical convictions we should stand for no matter what the cost. What causes us to fear the consequences of living this type of faith?
4. Daniel faced consequences for his faithfulness to God. What are some consequences we could currently face as a result of our faithfulness to Christ? What are some of the consequences that Christians are facing around the world? Our faith in Christ doesn’t guarantee physical deliverance right now. But what are some ways that we are rescued spiritually in those moments where we are standing in spite of resistance?
5. How did Jesus respond in the midst of His persecution? When you find yourself in a situation where your faithfulness to God is being held against you, what do you do? How can we face negative or even harsh treatment that results from our faithful obedience to God so that others see Jesus in our actions? How can persecution actually enhance the spread of the gospel?
Pray: Take a moment to evaluate your spiritual life. Ask God to reveal the faults that hinder your faith. Pray that God would give you the strength to stand in the “lion cage” of a culture becoming more resistant to Christ.
Memorize/Meditate: For he is the living God, enduring forever; his kingdom shall never be destroyed, and his dominion shall be to the end. He delivers and rescues; he works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth, he who has saved Daniel from the power of the lions. Daniel 6:26-27
