Daniel 6:10-11, "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Then these men went as a group and found Daniel praying and asking God for help."

Think

When Daniel found out the king had forbidden prayer, Daniel did what he always did – prayed. This was not a new response, but a well-developed habit. Everyone who follows God will face difficulties. The Christian life does not guarantee a free ride. It may not be a king's decree, but it could be social pressures, jokes made at your expense, not getting invited to something, or having to give up something you wanted. How will you respond in that moment? "We don't rise to the level of our expectations, but fall to the level of our training." That famous quote is true. We've got to prepare now if we want to survive the difficulties when they hit. If you start preparing now, developing the habits God wants for you, you can have a "Daniel" moment in the midst of your difficulties.

Act

One of the biggest ways God can prepare you for the difficulties in life is by surrounding you with others who follow Him. Do you have the right people to help you stand for God? If not, there's good news! Every week at Fellowship Church we have Connect Groups, Flavour Sisterhood, Men of the House, and volunteer opportunities where you can meet the people that will make a difference in your life. Don't wait for the difficulties to hit – commit to be a part of one of the connection opportunities today at  You Belong Here!

Pray

My Father in Heaven, thank You for not leaving me alone to face the difficulties that come with following You. Please prepare me so that I am strong enough to stand for You. In Jesus' name, Amen.