Read: Daniel 6:10-23

He knelt down on his knees three
times that day, and prayed
and
gave thanks before his God, as
was the custom. -Daniel 6:10

Many people turn to the Lord only when they are in a crisis. Of
course, praying in an emergency is better than not praying at all. But
whether things are going against us or for us should make no difference.
Prayer should be such a natural part of our lives that we engage in it
no matter what the circumstances.

Our Bible reading for today illustrates this truth. The enemies of
Daniel had gone to Darius, king of Babylon, with a devious plan. They
managed to get him to sign a document which, according to the law of the
Medes and Persians, could not be changed. The decree stated that for 30
days anyone who asked a petition of any god or man other than the king
himself would be thrown into a den of lions. Even though Daniel knew
this, "he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed
and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom" (Dan. 6:10).
Those last four words tell it all. Daniel’s emergency praying reflected
his consistent devotion to the Lord.

Although the Father welcomes your petitions in a crisis, He also
takes great delight in your thankful prayers when all is going well.
Whatever your circumstances, therefore, whether this is a good day or a
bad day, make prayer a vital part of your life. Have you talked with
God today? -Richard W. De Haan

So whether days be bright or fair,
Be ever watchful unto
prayer;
To offer praises never cease,
And God will fill your
heart with peace. -Fraser

IF YOU WANT TO KNOW HOW TO PRAY IN THE HARD TIMES,
PRAY IN THE
EASY TIMES.

OUR DAILY BREAD, Copyright 1998 by Radio Bible Class, Grand
Rapids,Michigan. Used by permission.