Fear of People

“Fearing people is a dangerous trap, but trusting the Lord means safety.” – Proverbs 29:25 

Today, we are continuing to look at what made Daniel’s life so courageous and how he was able to be a figure known for his courage. As we learned yesterday, Daniel was not afraid of missing out. When offered the same diet as the King, Daniel rejected the offer and instead asked for a diet of vegetables.  

God blessed Daniel’s (and his friends’) obedience. If you want to be courageous, you must first get over the fear of missing out. But then you must also get over the fear of people. Daniel chapters 2 and 5 describe two different situations where Daniel was called upon to interpret the dream of a king.  

In chapter 2, none of the king’s astrologers and wise men could interpret the dream, and as a result, they were put to death. So now it was Daniel’s turn. I’d call that a pretty intimidating position to be in.  

In chapter 5, King Belshazzar was throwing a party for a thousand of his nobles, when all of a sudden, a hand appeared and wrote several words on a wall. Again, no one could interpret the meaning, so Daniel was summoned to interpret.  

The king offered Daniel greater status, wealth, and a promotion if he could correctly interpret the words. But Daniel declined the gifts which would have been insulting to the king.  

Here is what I want you to see from this story: Daniel didn’t fear the king. He feared God. And that is pretty clear because, despite the fact that the king had a history of killing people that gave bad interpretations, Daniel went on to interpret the words on the wall, and he delivered some really bad news to the king in doing so. 

Daniel was honest with the king knowing his reputation because he didn’t fear him. He only feared God.  

Who do you fear? Is there someone in your life who dictates the outcome of your decisions? What are you afraid to do or afraid not to do because of how others might see you? Daniel honored God by being courageous. He was courageous because he did not fear people, and neither should you! God is our only judge. Do not limit yourself based on the opinions or beliefs of others.  

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bible verse

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

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