Three Times a Day

Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before. Daniel 6:10

**Physical discipline and spiritual discipline often go hand in hand.

**Prior discipline prepares us for present dilemmas. The time to prepare for a crises is in advance and through the practice of prayer. It requires discipline to form the habit of prayer and self-control to withstand the obstacles that compete for time.

**Self-control enhances effectiveness; self-indulgence limits effectiveness. Many of us will never fully affect this planet in the ways God planned because of our sheer lack of self-control and discipline. Any effectiveness may seem random and accidental.

**Self-control for God's sake invites God's blessing. Self-control prospers; self-indulgence perishes. (Beth Moore)

As I was reading this verse I aligned the three times Daniel prayed to the three meals we eat each day. Our physical bodies require nourishment on a regular basis in order to function and be healthy. The same way with our spiritual needs; Daniel was consistent with his prayers to God. There is nothing magical about the number, but the concept of praying through-out the day is imperative for our spiritual health.

Another thing I picked up on was Daniel's posture as he prayed. He was on his knees--which immediately places an awareness of God as your Creator when you pray. I have been praying on my knees lately and it puts you in a different frame of mind. Yes, God hears us whenever we pray, even if our lips do not move He hears our heart. And no--I'm not going to drop to my knees in public places, but alone during my time with the Lord, it puts a new dimension on my prayers.

I'm going to finish up some Christmas shopping this morning. I can't believe that tomorrow is Christmas Eve! My husband and I will be alone on Christmas Eve; first time for that, but it will be nice. My daughter is coming over for a Christmas morning breakfast and then we will get to open presents together--now that is great!