Daniel Chapter 9

The time is coming close for the prophesied return from exile. As Daniel is a man of the word, he knows this, and his excitement seems to resonate through his prayers. We can see Daniel as being an example of a balanced believer—one who is equal in both scripture study and prayer. Yet, to fully understand the context of how Daniel found himself here in the first place, I would challenge you to read Jeremiah 25:7-11. Where we clearly find that God does not bless sin, and Israel had been banished from their promised land as a result of ‘not listening’ to the word of the Lord. The reason for Daniel’s hope here is found in Jeremiah 29:12-14. Daniel’s prayer here for the prophesied return of Israel seems to model the Lord’s Prayer. They both open with praise and exaltation of the Most High, acknowledging God’s holiness against our sinfulness. This theme is carried out in Daniel’s confessions of sin for himself and his people. He then petitions the Lord not on his own merit, but on the character and mercy of God. And finally, yields to God’s sovereign will.

Daniel fervently prays to the Lord for this expected restoration of Israel despite it having already been foretold by the prophet Jeremiah. As the time draws near for the coming of Christ, are we praying as fervently? 

Read Daniel 9:1-19, How does Daniel’s prayer mirror the Lord’s prayer in Matthew 6? What is the consistent heart behind Daniel’s prayer?