No manner of hurt

No manner of hurt.

When Daniel survived his night in the lions' den, no manner of hurt was found on him. I found myself rereading that sentence. No manner of hurt. How many of us could go through such an experience and come out unscathed?

Daniel was chosen for the number one position 'because an excellent spirit was in him.' One can only assume those who conspired against him did so out of jealousy, not because he was not worthy of being in that role. He was innocent of any wrong doing. And yet he found himself condemned by the King he served so faithfully. His 'crime' was that he worshipped God faithfully, three times a day. So one could hardly blame him if he had come out of that holding a grudge.

But the next morning he greets the king, "O king, live forever."  Who would have blamed him if he had said, "O foolish king, this was all your fault." But all those excellent qualities he expressed included true forgiveness and compassion.

Daniel was not 'hurt' by the acts of others. He did not take it personally, knowing 'the control which Love held over all." His feelings were not hurt by the actions of those presidents and princes. All that happened was that Daniel continues to rely on God, Love, and his clear understanding of God's law of ever present good.

Next time I find myself in what might be a 'hurtful' situation I hope I have the courage and wisdom to stand fast and let the angel 'shut the lions' mouths.' May I see that there is nothing that can hurt me physically or emotionally or any other way. May I turn to my angel and be aware of Love's sweet control.

Mrs. Eddy writes, "The very circumstance, which your suffering sense deems wrathful and afflictive, Love can make an angel entertained unawares." (Science and Health 574)