Day 328: Strength in Numbers

Today’s Scripture: Daniel 2:17-18

Central Thought: In time of trouble, seek the prayerful support and counsel of trusted friends.

The book of Daniel tells the story of Daniel’s life and ministry, which bridges the seventy-year period of Babylonian captivity and includes some of the most incredible prophesies and visions in the entire Bible. Daniel is the central figure, the protagonist of this riveting account. Daniel, however, was not alone. We might think of Daniel as a solitary figure, facing the lions in the den or boldly speaking God’s words to the King, but as this passage clearly shows, in time of trouble Daniel’s first move was to call for backup.

Among many people, rugged individualism is highly regarded. However, God’s Word indicates that we are not meant to ‘go it alone,” no matter how highly prized independence and self-sufficiency might be in our culture. We need others. God gave Daniel the interpretation of the dream, but his friends were there as well, supporting him in prayer.

Reach out to someone today to share a burden you are bearing alone, or to offer a hand to a struggling friend.

Devotional Prayer: Lord, thank You for my friends.

Today’s Bible Reading: Daniel 1:1-2:23; 1 Peter 3:8-4:6; Psalm 119:65-80; Proverbs 28:14