Daniel stands as a remarkable example of courage, consistency, humility and perseverance. Yet as I recently read through the book of Daniel I was struck—and convicted—by the power and majesty of his prayers. (See Daniel 2:20–23; 9:3–19.)

Three timeless lessons about prayer stand out from Daniel’s example:

1. Pray in Recognition of God’s Attributes.

When Daniel approached the Lord, he did so with deep reverence, recognizing God’s sovereignty, faithfulness, and lovingkindness. As Christians, we should consider these glorious qualities each time we come before the throne of grace.

“Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings.” (Daniel 2:20–21)

We will pray with greater confidence when we believe that the Lord rules over all things, that He faithfully keeps every promise, and that He loves us with an everlasting love.

2. Pray in Accordance with God’s Word

Like Daniel, our prayers should be shaped and guided by Holy Scripture. This ensures that our petitions conform to the Lord’s will. Daniel had been reading the prophecy of Jeremiah regarding Israel’s exile and prayed accordingly.

When we believe that God’s will is always “good, acceptable, and perfect,” (Romans 12:2), we will joyfully submit to it—no matter what it is.

3. Pray in Solidarity with God’s Church

Following Daniel’s example, our prayers should express solidarity with God’s people. The bent of Daniel’s heart was outward, toward his fellow Jews. Though he lived a righteous life, he confessed the sins of his people as one of them.

Notice the pronouns in his prayer: “we,” “our,” and “us.” And didn’t our Lord Jesus teach us to pray the same way? We are to say, “our Father,” “give us,” and “forgive us.”

True prayer isn’t merely personal—it is communal. It unites us with the body of Christ as we share one another’s burdens, confess together, and seek God’s mercy as His people.

How is your prayer life? Do you pause to consider the greatness of the God to whom you pray? Are your prayers grounded in His Word? And are they more outward—in solidarity with your brothers and sisters in Christ—or more inward, focused only on yourself?

May Daniel’s prayer life inspire us to approach God with reverence, truth, and love for His people.