NASHVILLE (BP) – This weekly Bible study appears in Baptist Press in a partnership with Lifeway Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Through its Leadership and Adult Publishing team, Lifeway publishes Sunday School curricula and additional resources for all age groups.
This week’s Bible study is adapted from the Bible Studies For Life curriculum.
Bible Passages: Daniel 10:1-3, 10-13, 16-19
Discussion Question:
What are some ways the Lord strengthens us in the midst of a spiritual battle?
Food for Thought by Michael Kelley:
Daniel lived a life of faithfulness, and he had seen and experienced incredible things. Now as an old man only a few years from his death, there was more for him to experience.
The first group of exiles had returned to Jerusalem, proving that God was making good on His promises. Meanwhile, as a result of his prayers, Daniel received a heavenly message about a great conflict, and the news was distressing to him. For three weeks he mourned, fasted and prayed.
Daniel knew the right thing to do whenever he encountered that which was bigger than himself; he took his concerns to the Lord. Like Daniel, prayer ought to be our first recourse during moments of trouble.
When Daniel brought his concern to the Lord, the Lord answered by sending His angel. Mysteriously, the heavenly being was delayed by another powerful spirit. Though he wasn’t fully aware of it, Daniel was engaged in a battle far bigger than himself.
Daniel was suddenly aware of his own weakness. He felt ill-equipped to speak with this angel, much less stand in the midst of the spiritual conflict.
The world is at war. Every human being is involved in the conflict. This isn’t a war of country against country; it’s a spiritual battle. As believers, we often don’t think in these terms; however, only by recognizing we’re in this fight can we stand against Satan and his wiles.
God equips and strengthens us to stand strong. We aren’t meant to fight alone.
Bible Studies for Life connects the Bible to life for adults, students, and kids. Bible Studies for Life helps individuals and groups know God’s Word through trustworthy content, creates biblical community through engaging and conversational group studies, and helps people engage the culture missionally by unpacking what the Bible says about real-life issues. More information can be found at Lifeway.com/biblestudiesforlife.
–30–
