Daniel’s story is one that causes me to do a lot of self-reflection and think about my relationship with God.

When I look specifically at this story in Daniel 6, I immediately wonder how deep and meaningful Daniel’s relationship with God must have been for him to respond to a death decree by continuing his normal routine of praying in front of the window.

So many things could be unpacked here, but I’ll stick with Daniel’s gratitude in this moment. Daniel 6:10 doesn’t just say that Daniel prayed, but that He gave thanks to God. Praying and worshiping God is the very thing that is going to get him thrown to the lions, yet he still prays and he still gives thanks.

I know that there have been times when things weren’t going well. In those moments I didn’t necessarily feel like giving thanks.

However, whether I feel like it or not, God is still worthy of praise and thanks.

Giving thanks and praising God is a weapon against discontentment. It reminds me of all that God has done for me. Not only did He die to save us, but He also gives abundant blessings just because He loves us.

Whether our current situation is good or bad, God is always worthy of thanks.