Daniel became more secure in God’s love and strengthened with divine might and courage.
Daniel also became more sensitive and ready to hear the word of the Lord.
(Dan. 10:19) And he [the angel] said, “O man greatly beloved, fear not! Peace be to you; be strong, yes, take courage!” So when he spoke to me I was strengthened, and said, “Let my lord speak, for you have strengthened me.”
God is a communicating, speaking God. He speaks to us in a variety of ways, but He speaks nonetheless. In fact, one of the first things we see God doing in Genesis 1 is speaking.
(Gen. 1:3) Then God said, “Let there be light.”
One of the last things we see God doing in Revelation 22 is speaking.
(Rev. 22:20) He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming quickly.”
God loves to reveal His plans and purposes to His people.
(Amos 3:7) Surely the Lord God does nothing, unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets.
To be sure, God doesn’t only speak to us when we fast. But fasting helps remove the clutter and tunes our hearts and ears to hear the Lord’s voice .
Daniel, because he had been strengthened by the Father’s love, was tuned in and ready to receive the message from the angel.
Fasting does not make God speak, but it helps us to become more sensitive to His voice.
Exercise: During your prayer time this week, take a few minutes to be still and quiet and take time to listen. Your mind will most likely be quite active and busy. It may be helpful to have a small note pad and pen handy, so that when a distracting thought comes you can quickly jot it down and put it out of your mind. Practice this quiet listening throughout the week as you prayer, “Lord, speak to me. I’m ready to hear your words.”
Prayer: O precious Word, thank You that You are a speaking God. Let Your word run swiftly right now and be glorified in my life. Holy Spirit speak to me of the Father’s love; let the words of Jesus wash over me, bringing light and life to my soul. I’m ready to hear and obey. I will go where You send me, say what You’re saying, and do what You’re doing. You have the words of life, where else can I go. Amen.
