Daily devotion – The God of Mercy
On Sunday was we studied Daniel 9, we studied a powerful moment of prayer and repentance. Daniel, now an elderly man, is deeply moved as he reads the prophecy of Jeremiah, realising that the seventy years of captivity in Babylon are nearly complete. This prompts him to seek God with urgency, humility, and faith.
Daniel teaches us how to respond to Crisis with Prayer:
Daniel lived through times of upheaval and uncertainty. Instead of despairing, he turned to the Word of God and prayer. He understood that when life is unstable, anchoring oneself in Scripture leads naturally to heartfelt prayer. If your prayer life feels dry, immerse yourself in God’s Word and let it stir your heart to seek Him.
Daniel’s prayer was marked by fasting, sackcloth, and ashes—all outward signs of deep repentance and humility. He set aside his position and comfort as Prime Minister, to come before God honestly, acknowledging both God’s greatness and his own need for mercy.
Daniel confessed not only his own sins but also the sins of his people. He recognised that we all have sinned and fallen short, and that this true understanding of ourselves only comes when we draw near to God’s holiness. Repentance flows naturally when we see ourselves in the light of God’s character.
Daniel’s prayer was not just for himself, but for his nation and loved ones. He pleaded for God’s mercy, not because of their righteousness, but because of God’s great compassion. He interceded passionately, believing that God hears and answers prayer.
Throughout the prayer, Daniel emphasises God’s mercy and forgiveness. Even when we feel we have gone too far, even then, God’s thoughts towards us are of peace and hope. He invites us to seek Him with all our heart, promising to hear and restore us.
Daniel’s prayer teaches us all that today, right now is the time for prayer in our lives!
Daniel believed in the literal fulfilment of God’s promises and understood that prayer is the means by which God’s purposes are accomplished. The urgency in Daniel’s heart is a call for us today: to pray for our loved ones, our nation, and ourselves, trusting in the God of mercy who answers prayer.
This week, are you facing uncertainty or feeling distant from God? Let Daniel’s example inspire you to turn to Scripture and prayer. Confess honestly, intercede passionately, and trust in God’s mercy. Now is the time to pray—for yourself, your loved ones, and your world. God is listening, and His mercy is greater than you can imagine.
Remember God is the God of great mercy and I need His mercy each and every day!