This week on the CityHill Church podcast, we're diving into Week 3 of our Daniel Series, "Raised to be Resilient." Pastor Daniel kicks off by clarifying some modern slang (King Nebuchadnezzar was a "bad guy" not a "baddie," and Daniel was the real "baddie" – meaning impressive or cool!). He emphasizes that God is raising a generation of radical faith, ready to take ground for the King.

We'll explore the gripping story of Daniel in the lions' den, drawing out powerful lessons for our lives. Daniel, serving under King Darius at around 80 years old, faced immense opposition due to his exceptional qualities and the king's plan to promote him. This didn't sit well with other officials, who plotted to bring him down.

The sermon highlights three key takeaways from Daniel's resilience:

When God raises us up, the enemy will try to tear us down. Just as Daniel faced persecution for his promotion, we can expect resistance when we stand for Jesus. However, what the enemy intends to break us, God uses to build us. Resistance doesn't always mean you're going the wrong way; it can mean you're going the right way.

We can't be Raised with Resilience without a Posture of Prayer. Daniel's accusers knew his unwavering commitment to prayer. Even when faced with a decree that meant death, Daniel continued his daily practice of prayer, not panicking or trying to fix it himself, but starting with prayer. His life of prayer had built strong "faith muscles" and resilience.

When we are Raised to do what is Right, we can trust God with the Results. Daniel chose to honor God, even if it meant being "lion lunch." He trusted in God's goodness, faithfulness, love, and righteousness, regardless of the outcome. Ultimately, God sent an angel to shut the mouths of the lions, and Daniel was found unharmed because he trusted in God. As a result, King Darius issued a decree for all people to fear and reverence the God of Daniel.

Join us as we learn how Daniel's prosperity was a reflection of his posture of prayer, and how we too can be raised with resilience by doing what is right and trusting God with the results.