KJV Bible StoriesDaniel in the Lions' Den
Daniel 6:1–28 (King James Version)
Daniel’s Integrity
Daniel 6:3 (KJV)
"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."
"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm."
Daniel’s promotion was not accidental. Scripture attributes it to “an excellent spirit.” This phrase suggests integrity, wisdom, and faithfulness in service. Daniel lived consistently before God and man. Even in a pagan government, he maintained righteous character. This teaches that godly excellence stands out even in secular environments. Favor often follows faithfulness.
Daniel 6:4 (KJV)
"They could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him."
"They could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him."
Daniel’s enemies searched diligently for corruption but found none. His integrity was tested under scrutiny. This verse demonstrates that a life aligned with God withstands investigation. When believers live uprightly, opposition often shifts from personal accusation to spiritual attack.
The Decree and Daniel’s Prayer
Daniel 6:10 (KJV)
"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house... and he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime."
"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house... and he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime."
Daniel’s response reveals unwavering devotion. He did not pray secretly out of fear, nor did he stop praying to preserve his safety. His phrase “as he did aforetime” shows consistency. His faith was not reactive but rooted in long-standing discipline. Prayer was his lifeline, not his last resort.
The Lions’ Den
Daniel 6:16 (KJV)
"Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."
"Thy God whom thou servest continually, he will deliver thee."
Even King Darius recognized Daniel’s continual service to God. Daniel’s testimony impacted those around him. The king’s reluctant words reveal that consistent faith leaves visible evidence. Service to God should be evident enough that even unbelievers acknowledge it.
Daniel 6:22 (KJV)
"My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me."
"My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me."
Divine intervention preserved Daniel’s life. God did not prevent him from entering the den—but He protected him within it. This distinction is powerful. God sometimes allows believers to enter trials to demonstrate His sustaining power. The shutting of the lions’ mouths reveals God’s sovereignty over creation.
God’s Glory Revealed
Daniel 6:26 (KJV)
"For he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed."
"For he is the living God, and stedfast for ever, and his kingdom that which shall not be destroyed."
The king’s decree magnified the God of Daniel. What began as persecution ended in proclamation. Daniel’s faithfulness led to public recognition of God’s sovereignty. Trials often serve as platforms for divine glory. God’s kingdom stands above every earthly authority.