TGIF

Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.

Daniel 6:10

A bit of context. Darius, King of the Medes & Persians has just issued a decree stating that ‘that anyone who prays to any god or human being during the next thirty days’ except for Darius, ‘shall be thrown into the lions’ den’. This is pretty gutsy. Not Darius’ decree (actually, in a way it is), more Daniel’s response. 

Windows open. For everyone to see. It shows his priority. Daniel is going to give thanks regardless of the repercussions. Today, things are changing, but we are still a ways from any sort of law like Darius’. But, we still face daily pressure to keep our thanksgiving silent. I wonder, what would gutsy thanksgiving look like today?

A couple of thoughts… Giving thanks to God for the food, even when unbelievers are present. Or, giving thanks to God when receiving an award at work/elsewhere. Maybe it looks like giving thanks to God on social media. In any case, I reckon there is something to be said for many of us being more public in our faith. In a way that isn’t obnoxious, but is also unapologetic. What do you think?

For Today:

• Have you had an opportunity to thank God publicly and you did? Or didn’t?
• Do you avoid speaking about God/your faith in public settings? Why?
• Commit to thanking God publicly at the next appropriate opportunity.

Pray:
Praise the Father for all His blessings. Give thanks for Jesus Christ who trusted God in the face of opposition. Ask God for His Holy Spirit to help you and others be courageous in your thanksgiving.