Daniel in the lion’s den is a very familiar and no doubt favorite Bible story with many people both young and old.  This story has the evil schemers, seeking to do away with the good guy.  There is the moment of decision followed by the springing of the trap.  Then there is the suspense for the king during the long night when Daniel was cast into the den of lions.  We know the story, we know the outcome, but what does this great story teach us?  What should we be applying to our own lives?  How does Daniel and the den of lions help us as we face the lions of our day?  Recall the admonition given in 1 Peter 5:8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour. 

Read Daniel 6.

I.            The Opposition to God’s Man – Dan. 6:1 - 9

1.       How did Darius organize the kingdom? (v.1 – 2)

2.      How did Daniel’s colleagues respond to plans to set Daniel over the whole realm? (v. 3 – 4) 

3.      What can we conclude about Daniel’s character from the result of this special investigation by his enemies? (v. 4 – 5) Ponder: If you were being watched as Daniel was, what changes (if any) would you want to make in your present lifestyle?

4.      What plan did Daniel’s enemies enact to eliminate Daniel from the scene? (v. 6 – 9)

II.            The Opportunity for God’s Man – Dan. 6:10 – 15

5.       Can you think of three possible choices Daniel had with regard to the king’s decree?   Explain the consequence of each and why you think Daniel made the choice he did?  (v. 10)

6.      Who found Daniel praying?  How do they report his actions to the king?  Why was Daniel prosecuted or persecuted?  (v. 11 – 15)

III.            The Outcome in God’s Hand – Dan. 6:16 – 28

7.       What was Darius’ hope for Daniel? (v. 16) Do you believe that he believed what he said to Daniel?  What are the indications that he was not quite sure about this? (v. 18 – 20)

8.      How was Daniel delivered from death in the den of lions? (v. 22)    

9.      Why did God protect Daniel? (v. 23)

10.  What happened to Daniel’s accusers and their families?  (v. 24)

11.  What specific aspects of God’s character can you discover in Darius’ decree praising the “God of Daniel”? (v. 25 – 27)

12.  How should Daniel’s example encourage you when you are faced with opposition that seeks to shut down your faith?  Name some of the things God can deliver us from: see Hebrews 7:25; Ps. 34:4;

Matthew 14:31; Philippians 4:6, 7; 1 Corinthians 10:13. 

Conclusion:   Peter’s admonition about the devil as a roaring lion, continues with these words of action:  “Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in you brethren that are in the world.  But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.” When you are faced with opposition will you see the opportunity and leave the outcome with God?  Will you exercise faith like Daniel?