Daniel 6:22 - What is the attention span of a lion?

Daniel was faithful to God all his life, despite being taken captive to Babylon. Though starting out as an enslaved foreigner, he was given increasing responsibility in the royal court. King Darius made plans to put Daniel in charge of the entire empire. 

This stirred up jealousy and animosity among Daniel's fellow administrators. But the only fault they could find was his loyalty and faith in God. They urged Darius to sign an irrevocable law. Praying to anyone, "divine or human," other than the king, was punishable by being fed to lions. (Daniel 6:12, NLT) The lions were kept hungry for just such barbaric executions.

Daniel's detractors were quick to report to that--as usual, three times a day--Daniel stood at a window facing the temple in Jerusalem and prayed to God.

The king didn't want to kill Daniel, but the law could not be retracted. Daniel was thrown into the den which was covered with a stone and formally sealed shut. The king fasted and stayed awake all night. 

We read,
19 Very early the next morning, the king got up and hurried out to the lions’ den. 20 When he got there, he called out in anguish, “Daniel, servant of the living God! Was your God, whom you serve so faithfully, able to rescue you from the lions?” (Daniel 6:19-20, New Living Translation, 2015)

Hebrews 11:33 tells us that it was by faith that heroes like Daniel "shut the mouths of lions." In fact, Daniel had some help...

21 Daniel answered, “Long live the king! 22 My God sent his angel to shut the lions’ mouths so that they would not hurt me, for I have been found innocent in his sight. And I have not wronged you, Your Majesty.” (Daniel 6:21-22, NLT)

The lions had indeed been hungry because the conspirators were then thrown into the den and "the lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den." (v.24, NLT) 

Psalm 32 says, "9 Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control. 10 Many sorrows come to the wicked, but unfailing love surrounds those who trust the Lord." Psalm 32:9–10 (NLT) 

Some people chafe against any restraint, but the lions submitted to whatever means the angel used to quell their instinct to attack. Hungry lions paid better attention to God than Daniel's enemies did.

Lord, Move us to live beyond our impulses and instincts. We want to give you more than forced obedience. Fill our hearts with passion to remain faithful to You and sensible to Your Spirit leading us, regardless of the cost. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Painting: Daniel in the Lion's Den, by Henry Ossawa Tanner