Daniel chapter nine has been an incredible read for me the past two days. Daniel serves as an amazing example of a man of God that desperately prays for his city. He lays his heart out before God. He begs God for undeserved mercy. I love verses 18-19:
O my God, lean down and listen to me. Open your eyes and see our despair. See how your city – the city that bears your name – lies in ruins. We make this plea, not because we deserve help, but because of your mercy. O Lord, hear. O Lord, forgive. O Lord, listen and act!
I have had a picture in my head recently that matches this passage. When I pray, I feel like God leans in and listens to my prayers. I love the imagery of an amazing God that takes genuine interest in his people when they pray. I love the fact that it is not just imagery. It is reality. He really loves to hear us talk.
This chapter is a great model for anyone that might be interested in praying over their city. Daniel LOVED Jerusalem. He saw Jerusalem’s potential. He brought his requests before God. God listened.
Don’t be afraid to pray huge prayers for your city. For your family. For your current circumstance. The beauty of it all is that we serve a God that will lean down and listen.