Daniel was a pure man. He is one of only a few people in the Bible of whom much is said that nothing negative is said. 3x in this book it is said Daniel was ''dearly loved by God.''
Daniel was a prophetic man. He had discernment when it came to interpreting dreams, visions, and prophecies. The book of Hebrews alludes to him as a prophet.
Daniel was a praying man. 3 times a day he would be faithful to offer his prayers. Once, even under the threat of death.
Daniel was a patriotic man. He had a love for God and a love for country.
Now, I know I am not Daniel, we are not Jews, and America is not God's covenantal people. Yet we see how a man of God approaches an unchanging God to pray for the nation that he loves.
There is a growing belief that love of country is inconsistent with a love of God. These days, if you express a love for your LORD and for your LAND some will accuse you of the sin of being a ''Christian nationalist.'' So, let's be clear, I think every Christian should love their nation and take pride in your history and heritage.
George Washington once said, ''To the distinguished character of a patriot it should be our highest glory to add the more distinguished character of a Christian.''
Dwight Eisenhower once stated, ''Without God there could be no American form of government, nor an American way of life. Recognition of the Supreme Being is the first, the most basic, expression of Americanism.''
Benjamin Franklin - ''If a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without His notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without His aid?''
My friends, there was a time when you could not call yourself a faithful American without recognizing the Sovereign Providence of God. Like Daniel, we as a pastoral community, have to have the courage to share our faith, spread the Gospel message and provide education to those whom many not have access to the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The American story isn’t finished by any means. Ultimately, what we are seeing and experiencing, is just a new chapter in God’s eternal plan.