the tension is good

the tension is good


Do you feel a tension between the life that you’re currently living and the life that God has for you? You want God’s best for your life, but you feel that it’s so much easier/natural to just do things your own way.

We all feel that way. We constantly struggle with the idea of giving up control of our lives for the plan and purpose that He has for ours. And that tension is good.

In Daniel chapter 6 we read about the tension that Daniel faced. A decree had been made making it illegal (punishable by death) for anyone to pray to any god. Daniel was a devoted follower of God who spent time every day in prayer and worship. As soon as he heard the decree, this caused tension in Daniel’s life. Should he spare his life and obey the decree, or should he continue to honor God? In verse 10 were told of Daniel’s response:

“Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem... he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.”

Daniel’s immediate response was to honor God. And although this response at first brought more tension, it ultimately led to him being spared and blessed by the king himself.

The tension will always be there, and it’s an ongoing struggle . But the tension’s good, because you’re rejecting your way and choosing God’s best for your life.


Daniel 6:1-24

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Joe Gabbard

I'm a pastor and strategy leader at a great church in Kansas City, MO.  Ronnin and I have been married for over 10 years and we have two beautiful, blond headed boys.  I'm interested in loving my family and being part of a community that impacts the spiritual landscape of our region.

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