Among LionsSample

CONTEXT: Daniel is condemned to the lions’ den.

King Darius didn’t realize the other jealous leaders were setting up him and Daniel until it was too late. His law had been signed, and according to the Medes and Persians, the kingdom that ruled Babylon, once a law was enacted, it couldn’t be repealed, not even by the king. King Darius cared about Daniel and felt a deep sense of regret when he discovered he was to be killed. He couldn’t eat or sleep. He spent the whole day trying to find a way to save Daniel. When his efforts failed, he had to follow through with his decree and send Daniel to the lion’s den. Regret turned into guilt as the situation replayed over and over in his mind.

Have you been there? You long to make things right but can’t take back the words spoken in anger during an argument or undo the actions that hurt those you love. You don’t know how to let go of the guilt and regret, so you internalize it. Eventually, shame sets in, and you feel unworthy of forgiveness from them and God.

Maybe you’re like Daniel; someone close to you betrayed your trust or hurt you deeply. You know they’re sorry and wish they could take back what’s been done, but the pain is too deep for you to get past by yourself.

In our own strength, we can’t move forward. But God always provides a way back to Himself, and if we’re willing to forgive each other. Forgiveness doesn’t excuse behavior or consequences. It doesn’t eliminate responsibility but invites freedom from anger and hurt, allowing space for healing to begin.

God doesn’t expect us to carry the weight of our own guilt, shame, and regrets as punishment. He doesn’t determine your worth based on what you’ve done. He loves us too much - He loves you too much - to do that! In fact, that’s why He sent Jesus. His blood covers every sin. There’s nothing too bad that He’s not able to forgive. All God requires is that we confess our sins and accept His gift of forgiveness.

CONSIDER THIS:

1. Think about a time when you did or said something you regretted. Did your regret turn into shame? What needs to happen for you to accept God’s forgiveness?

2. Consider a time when someone hurt you. How did your relationship with God impact your ability to offer forgiveness?

3. Write a prayer asking God to help you let go of regret so that you can forgive yourself and others.