Daniel and the Writing on the Wall: Trusting God Amidst Trials

Welcome to Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience. In today's reading (Day 363), the narrative starts with King Belshazzar hosting a great feast and desecrating the golden cups from the temple in Jerusalem. A mysterious hand writes on the wall, triggering fear in Belshazzar. When none of his wise men can interpret the writing, the queen mother suggests calling Daniel. Daniel interprets the message, predicting the fall of Belshazzar's reign. That night, Belshazzar is killed, and Darius the Mede takes over the kingdom. Darius recognizes Daniel's exceptional abilities and plans to set him over the entire empire. However, jealous administrators manipulate the king into signing a decree against praying to any god but the king himself. Daniel continues to pray to God, leading to his arrest and being thrown into the lions' den. Miraculously, Daniel is unharmed, leading Darius to decree that everyone must fear Daniel's God, who has shown His power in rescuing Daniel from the lions.

00:00 Introduction and Context
00:04 The Feast of King Belshazzar
00:51 The Mysterious Handwriting
02:57 Daniel's Interpretation
06:15 The Fall of Belshazzar
08:31 Daniel in the Lion's Den
11:52 Daniel's Deliverance and Decree of King Darius

Buy Immerse: Chronicles Now!
Volume 6 — Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel

Chronicles

Immerse: Chronicles is the sixth and final installment in Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience. Chronicles contains the remaining First Testament Books: Chronicles–Ezra–Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. These works were all written after the Jewish people fell under the control of foreign empires and were scattered among the nations. They remind God’s chastened people of their identity and calling to faithfully represent God to the nations and that there is still hope for the struggling dynasty of David.

4 Questions to get your conversations started:
1. What stood out to you this week?
2. Was there anything confusing or troubling?
3. Did anything make you think differently about God?
4. How might this change the way we live?

QUICK START GUIDE
3 ways to get the most out of your experience

1. Use Immerse: Beginnings instead of your regular chapter and verse Bible. This special reader’s edition restores the Bible to its natural simplicity and beauty by removing chapter and verse numbers and other historical additions. Letters look like letters, songs look like songs, and the original literary structures are visible in each book.
2. Commit to making this a community experience. Immerse is designed for groups to encounter large portions of the Bible together
   for 8 weeks–more like a book club, less like a Bible study. By meeting every week in small groups and discussing what you read in open,
   honest conversations, you and your community can come together to be transformed through an authentic experience with the Scriptures.
3. Aim to understand the big story. Read through “The Stories and the Story” (p. 483) to see how the books of the Bible work together to tell God’s story of his creation’s restoration. As you read through Immerse: Beginnings, rather than ask, “How do I fit God into my busy life?” begin asking, “How can I join in God’s great plan by living out my part in his story?”

And for more great Bible podcasts for Christians and small groups, check out https://lumivoz.com or search for Lumivoz in your podcast app of choice.

What will heaven be like? That’s a question many people ponder. And with some people experiencing glimpses of heaven when they have been close to death, we hear descriptions that exceed the boundaries of our imagination. In this Best of 2025 episode, Pam Farrel shares her vision of heaven as a result of a medically-induced coma, while expert John Burke backs up her experience with his near-death experience research and stories. It’s a fascinating discussion—full of hope and wonder—that you don’t want to miss!

Receive the Imagine Heaven bundle plus a free audio download of “Envisioning What Heaven Will Be Like” for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today!

Get More Episode Resources 

If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

God will not let you go. The big news of the Bible is not that you love God but that God loves you! He tattooed your name on the palm of his hand. His thoughts of you outnumber the sand on the shore. You never leave his mind, escape his sight, or flee his thoughts.

You need not win his love; you already have it. He sees the worst of you and loves you still. Your sins of tomorrow and failings of the future will not surprise him; he sees them now. Every day and deed of your life has passed before his eyes and been calculated in his decision. He knows you better than you know you and has reached this verdict: he loves you still. No discovery will disillusion him. No rebellion will dissuade him. He loves you with an everlasting love. God’s love—never failing, never ending.

Read more Come Thirsty

For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream and Humbling Experience: A Divine Revelation

In today's 362nd episode of Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience, we explore the profound message delivered by King Nebuchadnezzar to all people of every race, nation, and language. Nebuchadnezzar shares his extraordinary dream involving a grand tree and a divine messenger, and how none of Babylon's wise men could interpret it—except for Daniel, also known as Belt Shazzar. Daniel uncovers the meaning of the dream, foretelling the king's downfall and humbling experience, which ultimately serves as a divine lesson about the sovereignty of the Most High God. The episode highlights God's power and the transformation of Nebuchadnezzar, who comes to glorify and honor the King of Heaven after his period of humbling.

00:00 Introduction to Nebuchadnezzar's Message
00:35 Nebuchadnezzar's Troubling Dream
03:38 Daniel Interprets the Dream
06:03 The Dream's Fulfillment
07:29 Nebuchadnezzar's Restoration and Praise

Buy Immerse: Chronicles Now!
Volume 6 — Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel

Chronicles

Immerse: Chronicles is the sixth and final installment in Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience. Chronicles contains the remaining First Testament Books: Chronicles–Ezra–Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. These works were all written after the Jewish people fell under the control of foreign empires and were scattered among the nations. They remind God’s chastened people of their identity and calling to faithfully represent God to the nations and that there is still hope for the struggling dynasty of David.

4 Questions to get your conversations started:
1. What stood out to you this week?
2. Was there anything confusing or troubling?
3. Did anything make you think differently about God?
4. How might this change the way we live?

QUICK START GUIDE
3 ways to get the most out of your experience

1. Use Immerse: Beginnings instead of your regular chapter and verse Bible. This special reader’s edition restores the Bible to its natural simplicity and beauty by removing chapter and verse numbers and other historical additions. Letters look like letters, songs look like songs, and the original literary structures are visible in each book.
2. Commit to making this a community experience. Immerse is designed for groups to encounter large portions of the Bible together
   for 8 weeks–more like a book club, less like a Bible study. By meeting every week in small groups and discussing what you read in open,
   honest conversations, you and your community can come together to be transformed through an authentic experience with the Scriptures.
3. Aim to understand the big story. Read through “The Stories and the Story” (p. 483) to see how the books of the Bible work together to tell God’s story of his creation’s restoration. As you read through Immerse: Beginnings, rather than ask, “How do I fit God into my busy life?” begin asking, “How can I join in God’s great plan by living out my part in his story?”

And for more great Bible podcasts for Christians and small groups, check out https://lumivoz.com or search for Lumivoz in your podcast app of choice.

The Fiery Furnace: The Unwavering Faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego

This episode of 'Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience' narrates the dramatic story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego as described in the Book of Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar constructs an enormous golden statue and commands all people to worship it. The refusal of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to bow down to the idol leads to their punishment of being thrown into a blazing furnace. Miraculously, they remain unscathed, protected by divine intervention. An astonished Nebuchadnezzar recognizes the power of their God and decrees that no one should speak against Him. He then promotes Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to higher positions in Babylon.

00:00 Introduction and Context
00:04 The Golden Statue and the King's Decree
01:59 Defiance of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego
03:30 The Fiery Furnace
04:44 Divine Rescue and King's Proclamation
06:16 Conclusion and Promotion

Buy Immerse: Chronicles Now!
Volume 6 — Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel

Chronicles

Immerse: Chronicles is the sixth and final installment in Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience. Chronicles contains the remaining First Testament Books: Chronicles–Ezra–Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. These works were all written after the Jewish people fell under the control of foreign empires and were scattered among the nations. They remind God’s chastened people of their identity and calling to faithfully represent God to the nations and that there is still hope for the struggling dynasty of David.

4 Questions to get your conversations started:
1. What stood out to you this week?
2. Was there anything confusing or troubling?
3. Did anything make you think differently about God?
4. How might this change the way we live?

QUICK START GUIDE
3 ways to get the most out of your experience

1. Use Immerse: Beginnings instead of your regular chapter and verse Bible. This special reader’s edition restores the Bible to its natural simplicity and beauty by removing chapter and verse numbers and other historical additions. Letters look like letters, songs look like songs, and the original literary structures are visible in each book.
2. Commit to making this a community experience. Immerse is designed for groups to encounter large portions of the Bible together
   for 8 weeks–more like a book club, less like a Bible study. By meeting every week in small groups and discussing what you read in open,
   honest conversations, you and your community can come together to be transformed through an authentic experience with the Scriptures.
3. Aim to understand the big story. Read through “The Stories and the Story” (p. 483) to see how the books of the Bible work together to tell God’s story of his creation’s restoration. As you read through Immerse: Beginnings, rather than ask, “How do I fit God into my busy life?” begin asking, “How can I join in God’s great plan by living out my part in his story?”

And for more great Bible podcasts for Christians and small groups, check out https://lumivoz.com or search for Lumivoz in your podcast app of choice.

Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience - Day 360: The Book of Daniel

In this episode of 'Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience,' we explore the Book of Daniel, beginning with the besiegement of Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. Daniel and three other young men from Judah are chosen for royal service, where they refuse to defile themselves with the king's food and excel in wisdom and understanding. Subsequently, Daniel interprets Nebuchadnezzar's disturbing dreams, declaring the rise and fall of kingdoms and the eventual establishment of God's eternal kingdom. Daniel's wisdom and the revelation of God's secrets elevate him and his friends to high positions in the Babylonian empire.

00:00 Introduction to the Book of Daniel
00:34 Daniel and Friends in Babylon
01:49 Daniel's Resolve and God's Favor
04:12 Nebuchadnezzar's Disturbing Dream
07:14 Daniel Interprets the Dream
12:39 Daniel's Rise to Power

Buy Immerse: Chronicles Now!
Volume 6 — Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel

Chronicles

Immerse: Chronicles is the sixth and final installment in Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience. Chronicles contains the remaining First Testament Books: Chronicles–Ezra–Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. These works were all written after the Jewish people fell under the control of foreign empires and were scattered among the nations. They remind God’s chastened people of their identity and calling to faithfully represent God to the nations and that there is still hope for the struggling dynasty of David.

4 Questions to get your conversations started:
1. What stood out to you this week?
2. Was there anything confusing or troubling?
3. Did anything make you think differently about God?
4. How might this change the way we live?

QUICK START GUIDE
3 ways to get the most out of your experience

1. Use Immerse: Beginnings instead of your regular chapter and verse Bible. This special reader’s edition restores the Bible to its natural simplicity and beauty by removing chapter and verse numbers and other historical additions. Letters look like letters, songs look like songs, and the original literary structures are visible in each book.
2. Commit to making this a community experience. Immerse is designed for groups to encounter large portions of the Bible together
   for 8 weeks–more like a book club, less like a Bible study. By meeting every week in small groups and discussing what you read in open,
   honest conversations, you and your community can come together to be transformed through an authentic experience with the Scriptures.
3. Aim to understand the big story. Read through “The Stories and the Story” (p. 483) to see how the books of the Bible work together to tell God’s story of his creation’s restoration. As you read through Immerse: Beginnings, rather than ask, “How do I fit God into my busy life?” begin asking, “How can I join in God’s great plan by living out my part in his story?”

And for more great Bible podcasts for Christians and small groups, check out https://lumivoz.com or search for Lumivoz in your podcast app of choice.

Husbands and wives can strengthen their relationship with regular “date nights.” It doesn’t need to be fancy or expensive – simply being intentional about alone time together as a couple, talking, sharing your dreams, and no distractions! The Laffoons also recommend having fun, having a purpose for your date, and doing what your spouse most desires.

Receive the book Ultimate Date Night and an audio download of "Tips for Planning Memorable Date Nights" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas with your life-changing gift today!

Get More Episode Resources 

If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

“For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that you through His poverty might become rich”  (2 Corinthians 8:9 NKJV).

No man had more reason to be miserable than Jesus, yet no one was more joyful. He was ridiculed. Those who didn’t ridicule him wanted favors. Then they wanted to kill him. He was accused of a crime he had never committed. Witnesses were hired to lie. They crucified him. He left as he came—penniless.

He should have been miserable and bitter. But he wasn’t. He was joyful! He possessed a joy that possessed him. I call it a sacred delight. Sacred because it’s not of the earth. Delight because it’s just that: the joy of God. He offers it to you, my friend—a sacred delight!

Read more In the Manger

For more inspirational messages please visit Max Lucado.

Gather ‘round the fireplace with the Robertson clan from A&E’s Duck Dynasty while they share their favorite family Christmas stories. On this 2022 beloved Focus on the Family broadcast episode, you’ll hear from the late Phil Robertson, Miss Kay, their four sons and wives, Phil’s long-lost daughter, and Uncle Si as they reminisce and recall Robertson family Christmas memories. From duck hunting gone awry to silly Christmas antics, you’ll feel right at home!

Receive the book Exploring the Joy of Christmas and the audio download of the broadcast "Helping Kids Navigate Worry in Healthy Ways" for your donation of any amount! Your Gift DOUBLES to Help Deliver Hope and Joy! Save 2X the marriages and families this Christmas

Get More Episode Resources 

If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.

Day 359: Understanding the Book of Daniel - Faith and Hope Amidst Hostile Empires

On day 359 of the 'Immerse: The Daily Bible Reading Experience', the focus is on the Book of Daniel. This pivotal text explores the challenges faced by the nation of Israel under hostile empires in the centuries leading up to the birth of Jesus. The Book of Esther highlights Jewish courage under Persian rule, while Daniel emphasizes steadfast faith during the reigns of several powerful empires including the Babylonians, Persians, and Greeks. The book is divided into two parts: stories and apocalyptic visions. The stories, involving figures like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, center on interpretation and deliverance, showcasing God's intervention and sovereignty. The apocalyptic visions, filled with symbolic imagery, provided hope to the Jewish people during times of great suffering and uncertainty. The Book of Daniel became a source of hope and inspiration for the Jewish people, especially during the first century AD under Roman oppression, as they awaited God's promised redeemer.

00:00 Introduction to the Daily Bible Reading Experience
00:04 Historical Context of Israel Before Jesus
00:27 The Book of Esther and Daniel's Steadfastness
00:45 Structure and Themes of the Book of Daniel
00:56 Stories of Interpretation and Deliverance
01:24 God's Intervention and the Humble Captives
02:07 Visions and Apocalyptic Literature
02:47 Historical Empires and Jewish Resistance
03:29 The Book of Daniel's Impact and Legacy
04:09 Hope and Future Promises

Buy Immerse: Chronicles Now!
Volume 6 — Chronicles, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, Daniel

Chronicles

Immerse: Chronicles is the sixth and final installment in Immerse: The Bible Reading Experience. Chronicles contains the remaining First Testament Books: Chronicles–Ezra–Nehemiah, Esther, and Daniel. These works were all written after the Jewish people fell under the control of foreign empires and were scattered among the nations. They remind God’s chastened people of their identity and calling to faithfully represent God to the nations and that there is still hope for the struggling dynasty of David.

4 Questions to get your conversations started:
1. What stood out to you this week?
2. Was there anything confusing or troubling?
3. Did anything make you think differently about God?
4. How might this change the way we live?

QUICK START GUIDE
3 ways to get the most out of your experience

1. Use Immerse: Beginnings instead of your regular chapter and verse Bible. This special reader’s edition restores the Bible to its natural simplicity and beauty by removing chapter and verse numbers and other historical additions. Letters look like letters, songs look like songs, and the original literary structures are visible in each book.
2. Commit to making this a community experience. Immerse is designed for groups to encounter large portions of the Bible together
   for 8 weeks–more like a book club, less like a Bible study. By meeting every week in small groups and discussing what you read in open,
   honest conversations, you and your community can come together to be transformed through an authentic experience with the Scriptures.
3. Aim to understand the big story. Read through “The Stories and the Story” (p. 483) to see how the books of the Bible work together to tell God’s story of his creation’s restoration. As you read through Immerse: Beginnings, rather than ask, “How do I fit God into my busy life?” begin asking, “How can I join in God’s great plan by living out my part in his