DESERVING PRISON
A French prince once visited the infamous Toulon prison. As the prince walked down the cell-lined corridor, the prison warden offered to release any prisoner that the prince selected. In order to make his choice, the prince asked each prisoner, "Why are you here?" Every man asserted that he didn't belong in prison. "I am innocent, my lord!" claimed one. "I've been framed!" cried another. Only one man told a different story. "Your highness," he replied, "I have no complaint. In my time I have been a wicked, desperate murderer. I deserve to be here." The prince replied, "You are indeed a wicked man. What a pity you are confined among so many honest citizens. You will corrupt them! I can't allow you to remain in their company another day. Guard! This is the man I wish released!"
Like this solitary prisoner, Daniel admitted his and his people's guilt (Daniel 9:3-19). He knew Israel deserved all the punishment God could give. That is why he said:...for we do not present our supplications before You because of our righteous deeds, but because of Your great mercies. God's mercy was Israel's only hope.
When we depend on His mercy rather than our own goodness, power comes into our praying. We can do nothing to "deserve" answered prayer. Rather, we need to rely on God's grace and mercy to give according to His riches in glory.
Daniel 9:18 NIV
Give ear, our God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy.
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