Daniel 9
Scripture
Daniel 9:13, 17-19 NIV
“Now, our God, hear the prayers and petitions of your servant. For your sake, Lord, look with favor on your desolate sanctuary. Give ear, our God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. Lord, listen! Lord, forgive! Lord, hear and act! For your sake, my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your Name.””
Daniel 9:22-23 NIV
“He instructed me and said to me, “Daniel, I have now come to give you insight and understanding. 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:”
Observation-What does it say?
The first half of this chapter is Daniel's prayer of confession and intercession to God on behalf of the Jews regarding their captivity, according to his knowledge of what the prophet Jeremiah said in the Scriptures (vs. 2). The last half of the chapter is God's answer to Daniel's prayer (delivered by the Angel Gabriel) which talks about the end times and how the Messiah, Jesus Christ was going to redeem the nation of Israel and restore their relationship back to God. Matthew Henry Bible commentary says verses 24-27 "is the clearest, brightest, prophecy of the Messiah, in all the Old Testament."
Understanding-What does it mean?
Jesus is the answer!
I notice a theme running through this book and that is the victory of Jesus Christ! His victory over sin, over a rebellious nation, and His power to restore people and nations back to Himself.
Life Application
Victory comes through Jesus Christ alone.
Salvation comes from Him. Victory over sin comes from Him. Restoration with the Father comes from Him. He is the answer.
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Cor. 15:57
Thank You Lord Jesus for the victory You have given us over sin, hell and the grave. I pray for Your heart in us to continue making Christ followers everywhere as we await Your victorious and glorious return. Amen.