In a well-known painting of Daniel in the lions' den, known as "Daniel's Answer to the King," this true, courageous soldier of God is shown standing near the opening of the den. It is interesting to note that Daniel is pictured, not as looking at the lions, or terrified at their presence, but as standing erect, fearless, his face toward the light, looking upward, confidently awaiting his release. This is evident in his reply to the king's inquiry as to whether his God had been able to deliver him: "My God hath sent his angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt."
One might easily surmise what would have been Daniel's fate had he, upon being cast into the den, allowed his thought to descend to the low level of resentment, indignation, doubt, and fear. Animal propensities, such as these, consume; they never protect or preserve. Daniel, however, through his understanding of God as divine Love, the only power and presence, did not mentally invite any attack from the lions by allowing his thought to become mesmerized by these erroneous suggestions. Therefore, they had no power to harm him.
Doubtless, Daniel refused to turn his thought away from God, even when faced with the peril of being cast into the den of lions. And while his faith in God did not prevent him from going through this experience, it was sufficient to bring him out unharmed. He was confident that in refusing to worship the golden image which the king had set up, he had not disobeyed the law of God. So he turned away from the king's decree and steadfastly prayed and gave thanks to God, confidently trusting in Him. Thus Daniel proved his Godgiven dominion over animality and hate.
