King Darius the Mede and ruler over the former kingdom of Babylon, issued a decree in the approximate year of 539 B.C., “…that anyone who prays to any god or man
during the next thirty days, (except to him), shall be thrown into the lion’s
den.” (Daniel 6:7 NIV) We need to acknowledge this
king and his allies took the mighty Babylon
without a fight. This must have been a seriously notorious character.
This decree was issued by those jealous of Daniel. He was a favorite of King Darius and his peers hated him for it. Daniel’s
integrity and trustworthiness was cemented so strongly in his faith, his utmost
priority, that his foes stated they couldn’t find any corruption or
negligence. “We will never find any
basis for charges against this man Daniel unless it has something to do with
the law of his God.” (Daniel 6:4-5 NIV)
Daniel’s strict faith led him to pray three times a day. He was not ready to cower before this decree and forfeit his religious integrity.
God’s law trumped this king.
However, he made the choice to disobey the king and was forced to face
the consequences.
Sometimes making the right decision goes against the demands of our authority figures and we must own the severe consequences. Most likely a den of lions isn’t the
punishment; rather, our careers could lay victim. Have faith because almost always those with
integrity will prevail.
Daniel was sent to the lions den and returned without a scratch. Those who tried to have him killed were thrown into the den along with their families.
Needless to say, they became lion lunch.
This example of self-leadership spanning almost 2,500 years is still applicable today. The popular decision would have
been easiest for Daniel, but it would have been a moment he regretted
forever. Remaining true to the
priorities we set are the trademark of a self-leader.
(Excerpt from upcoming 2nd edition of Inspire Tomorrow, Leadership for the young professional)
