DAY 242 OR AUGUST 30.
NO SOONER THE WORD THAN THE DEED.
Our thoughts today come from Daniel chapter 9 verse 23.
As soon as you began to pray, a word went out which I have come to tell you, for you
are highly esteemed.
Therefore consider the word and understand the vision.
Now the big picture surrounding this verse.
There are verses in Daniel chapter 8 that tradition has it were read to Alexander the
Great.
It is said that he was greatly impressed that he was mentioned in the Hebrew Scriptures
and showed great sympathy in his dealing with the Hebrew people.
In amongst a mixture of signs and visions, Daniel also records a lovely discourse between
him and an angel of the Lord called Gabriel.
A now-today's action step.
If like me you often struggle to understand God's timetable, it's worth considering a
few words from the angel Gabriel when he speaks to Daniel.
This angel is probably the same one mentioned in Luke chapter 1 verse 26.
In the sixth month of Elizabeth's pregnancy, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a
village in Galilee.
As Daniel is praying, Gabriel confronts him and tells him that he has come in direct response
to Daniel's prayer.
Isn't it amazing that God responds in such a spectacular fashion and so quickly?
Do you feel just a little envious, even though you know you shouldn't?
Well, look closer at the text where Daniel is seen as highly esteemed.
It appears he has done all he can to be in tune with God.
I wonder if we have problems with answers to prayer because we occasionally blurt requests
out to our Father in heaven without giving a thought to what God's will might be.
I certainly don't mean to imply that God only responds to the prayers of good people,
but maybe the psalmist was on to something when he said in Psalm 66 verse 18,
If I had not confessed the sin in my heart, the Lord would not have listened.
Be sure you haven't erected a soundproof barrier before accusing God of not responding.