Praying in a Pagan Land By Erwin W. Lutzer

Praying in a Pagan Land By Erwin W. Lutzer When the Israelites were exiled to Babylon, they were commanded to seek the welfare of this pagan city and to “prayto the Lord” for its people (Jeremiah 29:7). The most compelling example of praying during this time is Daniel who, even as a 17-year-old boy arriving in Babylon, had a consistent prayer life. In time, he became a trusted advisor to King Darius. Some of the governors of the kingdom became jealous of Daniel. They convinced Darius to make a decree that “whoever makes petition to any god or man for thirty days, except to you, O king, shall be cast into the den of lions”(Daniel 6:7). But Daniel feared God more than the lion’s den! He continued to get down on his knees three times a day to pray and give thanks before his God. The lesson for us is clear: Let us not be intimidated by a culture that wants to prohibit our obedience to God and worshiping Him. Let us not back off when laws are made that compel us to compromise our conscience or silence our witness. If we were to spend as much time praying for the enemies of Christianity as we do complaining about them, we might yet be amazed at what God would do in our country. As a result of Daniel’s prayer, God brought the Israelites from Babylon back into the land. God often works without our prayers, but our intercession moves His hand.     Today’s Prayer Dear God, we pray for those who rise up against Your Kingdom. Help them come to hallow Your Name and treasure You above all. Grant that they would come under Your saving power and become Your loyal servants. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.