How do you handle obscurity? King Nebuchadnezzar’s reign is over; his son Belshazzar replaced him. Daniel was no longer active in public service but when he was called to serve, he was ready to respond.

How do you speak God’s truth to people who are in power? King Nebuchadnezzar’s second dream was about his own humiliation. But instead of rubbing it in, Daniel exhorted the king to repent and turn away from the oppression he has caused his people.

When is it right for the people of God to not obey civil authority? The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in the fiery furnace is not just a story of deliverance, but a story of civil disobedience when sin is made into law.

In times of peril, is silence ever an option? King Nebuchadnezzar had a troubling dream and he threatened to kill his servants if they won’t be able to explain its meaning. Daniel volunteered to interpret his dreams even if he didn’t know yet what it means. He and his friends beg God’s help for them to be able to understand it and not be killed.

What do you do when your life is turned upside down because of the political choices of your national leaders?

Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were faithful young men who had to grapple with the question of honoring God in a culture that doesn’t acknowledge God.

Christ’s resurrection is of first importance. His resurrection upholds all reasons to believe and hope that when we die with Him, we will also live with Him.

Christ’s Death on the cross is of first importance. He was afflicted, pierced for our transgressions, and crushed for our iniquities. Through His death, we are delivered from the punishment of our sins.

The voices we allow to enter our minds influence how we live. May God's voice be the loudest voice we listen to and allow Him to transform, enlighten, and encourage us.

God has chosen us for His purpose—to shake our nation and make the kingdoms of this world become the kingdoms of God.

Let us revive our hope in God’s power to restore what was lost as His people prioritize the building of His house.