Weekly Prayer: Faith and Friendship in Daniel
Scripture:
Daniel 1–3
Weekly Prayer Reflection
Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were about fifteen when they were taken from their homeland. They were likely castrated and forced to serve in the courts of the king who had destroyed their families and their temple. Yet they maintained faith, joy, and a good attitude. Even more, they protected their friendship and clung to community.
They fasted together, lived together, served together, and looked out for one another.
When Daniel was promoted, he made sure his friends were promoted too.
When Daniel refused the king’s delicacies, his friends stood firm with him.
When Daniel sought mercy from God, he went to his friends first to pray.
When the three were accused and brought before the king, they stood strong together, even to the point of death.
Their boldness was not only personal, it was communal. They drew courage from one another and from their God. As we begin this study, we can ask: What might happen if we lived out our faith with that kind of courage and friendship? What if we held each other up in prayer, stood shoulder to shoulder in obedience, and encouraged one another to remain faithful no matter the cost?
Weekly Prayer
Lord, give those reading this the boldness of Daniel and his friends. Surround them with a community that clings to Your truth and to one another. Guard their minds so they may remain steadfast in faith, even in the face of adversity or sorrow. Help them to treasure their faith and their friendships, and to stand strong alongside the godly companions You have placed in their lives.
Reflection Questions
What stands out to you about the way Daniel and his friends lived out their faith together?
How can their example of friendship and courage encourage you in your own faith journey?
Who in your life helps you stay faithful to God, and how can you encourage them this week?
What might change in your walk with Christ if you leaned more on community for strength and boldness?
