Daniel: Week 11

Daniel 10

Daniel 10 begins the last section of the book with an incredible vision pulling back the curtain into an unseen realm. The presence of these spiritual realities can make us feel anything from curiosity and fear to wonder and comfort. This chapter reminds us that though the battle is real, God’s victory is sure.

v.1-9

The year is roughly 536 BC, and Daniel remains back while his people are allowed to return to Jerusalem and rebuild (Ezra 1:1-4). He is burdened for his people and the message he has received so he dedicates himself to prayer and fasting. Daniel sees the vision of a glorious being, marking what could be a Christophany, and is so overwhelmed he falls facedown to the ground.

v.10-21

Daniel is strengthened by the touch of a heavenly being but overwhelmed by the presence of his visitor and the message he receives in this vision. He is told about a heavenly battle and resistance from evil forces. Through this, Daniel is reminded that God has heard and answered his prayers and that he is deeply loved.

Daniel’s vision marks a couple of important truths for us to consider:

1) The revealing of the spiritual world

2) The reality of spiritual battle

The spiritual world and spiritual battle are near and present realities. Our recognition of this cosmic battle should lead us to a place of prayer and deep dependency on God. Like Daniel, we are to pray with humility and understanding by recognizing what matters most. How we pray, serve, worship, and live in obedience to Christ is fighting a battle in a war that has ultimately been won.

Questions:

1. How often do you think about the realities of spiritual warfare?
2. Read Ephesians 6:10-20. How are we to live in light of spiritual battle? How should this passage along with Daniel 10 shape the way we pray?
3. Why is it so important in spiritual battles that we remember God loves us and is with us?

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