Daniel had come a long way. Ripped from his homeland and taken captive as a youth, the Lord had prospered him, and he moved up and up to positions of favor in his new land. Ups and downs, yes, but from what we see in Scripture, he was quite blessed. Now, as an old man (probably in his 80’s) he was at the top of a world empire, second only to King Darius himself. Through it all, he was a man who walked with God and gave thanks for the life God had given him. How do we know this? There’s a word in Daniel 6:10 that gives a glimpse into Daniel’s communion with God. That word is “aforetime.” Not just on that day, but throughout the days and even years before, he was a man of prayer and thanksgiving. Now you might think, “If I had the promotion, influence, and blessing that Daniel had, I could give thanks, too!” But let’s remember the context of Daniel 6. His enemies were out to get him. They duped the king to destroy Daniel. The pressure was on, and Daniel knew that to pray openly was to be on a fast track to a sure and gruesome death in the den of lions. Things were not looking good. Yet, Daniel still gave thanks. Have you ever thought about that? He prayed in the difficult moment; so would I. But give thanks? Facing what he was facing? What would I have done? Pray, yes. Give thanks, well…. Daniel has taught me a great lesson this Thanksgiving week. The “aforetime” gratitude and walk with God so deepened his relationship, that when facing the den of lions, Daniel still knelt and communed with His God with a heart brimming with praise and thanksgiving. This Thanksgiving let’s remember that the God who is worthy of praise when all is well is still worthy of praise when we’re facing the lions. Walk with Him. Rest in Him. Give Him thanks.