Read Daniel 10:1-11:1
This passage gives us a date we can convert to our own calendar. That’s powerful for me to have that concrete reference of when Daniel “saw a man dressed in linen clothing, with a belt of pure gold around his waist. His body looked like a precious gem. His face flashed like lightning, and his eyes flamed like torches. His arms and feet shone like polished bronze, and his voice roared like a vast multitude of people.” We all have a vivid picture in our minds of who Daniel saw at this moment in time.
God had chosen to reveal his plans to Daniel in this vision, yet his companions could not see. Instead, they were apparently filled with a spirit of fear and ran away so that Daniel was alone with this messenger from God.
Daniel receives clarity directly from God, yet it must have led to even more questions. At least it does for me. Who are these princes, and who is this linen wearing messenger? At first glance, I thought maybe it was Jesus, and some people think so because the description is similar to what John describes in Revelation 1:12-16. But Jesus wouldn’t get stuck for three weeks needing the help of the archangel, Michael, would he?
There are gems here that only Daniel would understand. The message was given to Daniel alone in that moment. Because Daniel shared it with us, we know that there are ramifications that affect us in some way.
For me, I can hear God’s message to us being that we are precious in his sight. He hears our prayers, too. Lots of warfare goes on in heaven and on earth to protect us, providing opportunities to grow closer and more dependent on God. Daniel models that behavior of wanting to know more of God and his plans.
Do you think we have had angels dispatched to answer our prayers in person? God can certainly do something mighty like that—he did it for Daniel. Let that realization bring you peace today.
Finally, the mention of “princes” here suggests to me authority figures. Perhaps these “princes” were not men at all but more spiritual, angelic beings, only from the “other” side. Satan is often referred to as the “prince of darkness.” I believe battles take place regularly in an unseen, heavenly realm. It’s kind of cool to imagine that, don’t you agree?
Take some time today to let Daniel’s vision bring you peace and comfort. Don’t run and hide from the love God wants to bestow on you.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for standing with me no matter what I will face today. I trust that you are fighting battles for me that I cannot see. Like Daniel, I want to seek you in every moment. I know that your power and wisdom is something I am so thankful to have access to each day. Work through me to help others see your strength and goodness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
