The NIV 365 Day Devotional

God’s Word: An Immovable Anchor

God’s Word is an immovable anchor in times of storm.

The words of King Darius echoed through Daniel’s mind as servants lowered him into the lions’ den. “May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you” (Da 6:16). Workers then laid a heavy stone over the opening to the underground chamber.

Even after assessing his dire situation, Daniel did not waver in his faith. The next morning, King Darius found Daniel untouched and proclaiming, “May the king live forever! My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me” (Da 6:21– 22).

How did Daniel survive? Were the lions not hungry? Historians tell us animals used for such planned executions went unfed for days in an effort to ensure the death of the accused. But Daniel’s fate was never in the hands of men. His life belonged to God, and therein lies the victory. Daniel survived by placing his trust in God and his faith in the Lord’s promises.

Each of us can remember times when we wished we had a sure word from God—something we could cling to when doubts and fears arose. God knows when we need encouragement, guidance and hope. This is why he provides specific promises in his Word, that we might understand his nature and trust him. In emotionally devastating times, God’s promises are essential to our spiritual welfare.

Therefore, consider God’s promises your spiritual anchors. Once you learn to follow him, pursue his lead wherever he goes because he never fails to keep his promises. Rather, he is teaching you to depend upon him through meditating on his Word and listening for his voice.

Are you willing to patiently wait for him to fulfill everything he has promised you and rescue you as he did Daniel? Never try putting God on your time schedule. Instead, cling to him, anchor your heart to his Word and leave room for him to bring everything together according to his plan and timing. You’ll be glad you did.

Taken from the NIV Charles Stanley Life Principles Bible.