Many people turn to the Lord only when they are in a crisis. Of course, praying in an emergency is better than not praying at all. But whether things are going against us or for us should make no difference. Prayer should be such a natural part of our lives that we engage in it no matter what the circumstances.

Our Bible reading for today illustrates this truth. The enemies of Daniel had gone to Darius, king of Babylon, with a devious plan. They managed to get him to sign a document which, according to the law of the Medes and Persians, could not be changed. The decree stated that for 30 days anyone who asked a petition of any god or man other than the king himself would be thrown into a den of lions. Even though Daniel knew this, "he knelt down on his knees three times that day, and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as was his custom" (Dan. 6:10). Those last four words tell it all. Daniel's emergency praying reflected his consistent devotion to the Lord.

Although the Father welcomes your petitions in a crisis, He also takes great delight in your thankful prayers when all is going well. Whatever your circumstances, therefore, whether this is a good day or a bad day, make prayer a vital part of your life. Have you talked with God today?  — Richard De Haan