The Story
Read the story from Daniel 6.
Daniel in the Lions’ Den Retold
A simpler version of the story for younger children.
Ideas for discussion
- Daniel did what was right even though the punishment would be going into a den of lions. What gave Daniel such courage? (He trusted in the Lord. And he knew that he had not done anything wrong.)
- How did King Darius feel? (He hoped that Daniel’s God would protect him, but he was too worried to sleep or eat.)
- What happened to the men who had tricked Darius and plotted against Daniel? (Darius punished the people who tried to have Daniel hurt. Evil actions have a way of bringing punishment back to the perpetrators.)
- Why do we need protection from the Lord as Daniel did? (The lions in this story picture the power of evil. Like Daniel needing protection from fierce lions, we need the Lord’s help to be saved from evil and false ideas that would tear us apart. We need to look to the Lord and follow Him so the Lord can protect us.)
Read more about the story of Daniel and the lions’ den:
- “Daniel Worships the Lord” by Kurt Horigan Asplundh (ages 4-10)
An illustrated story about Daniel's faithfulness to the Lord and how he was protected in the lions’ den. - “Daniel Delivered from the Lions’ Den” by Karl R. Alden (ages 7-14)
There are two great lessons that we should always try to remember are brought out in the story of Daniel and the lions’ den. - “Daniel in the Lions’ Den” by Patrick A. Rose (ages 18 and up)
We need to place our trust in the power of the Lord.
Projects and activities
- Daniel and the Lions’ Den Song Video
Daniel showed exceptional faith in God. Despite the threat of death, he remained strong in His desire to follow the Lord and His teachings. We can think about his example when we pray, especially when we feel the need for strength. - Dramatize the Story of Daniel in the Lions’ Den (ages 3-6)
Retell the story while children act it out. Have the angel go to all of the lions to "shut" their mouths. - In the Lions’ Den Coloring Page
Shows Daniel unharmed in the den of lions. - Jigsaw Puzzle of Daniel in the Lions’ Den (ages 5-8)
Print and cut out the color pieces of a jigsaw puzzle showing an angel protecting Daniel from the lions. - Daniel in the Lions’ Den Story Line (ages 8-14)
Make a story line reflecting your perspective on whether ten events in this story are happy, sad, or “neutral.” - Close the Lion’s Mouth (ages 4-8)
Color the lion, then fold the paper to close its mouth as you retell the story. - False Teeth (ages 15 and up)
Use this picture of a lion roaring to write a false idea that wants to "tear" at our understanding of the truth. - King Darius, Daniel and Me (teens and up)
Explore how the Lord helped both King Darius and Daniel and how he helps us. - For Reflection: Hell Is Like a Huge Lion (teens and up)
How does the Lord help us fight against evil? - Daniel in the Lions’ Den Spiritual Task by David Roth
Thoughts on strengthening our faith in the Lord by speaking to Him in prayer, reading His Word, and asking for the strength we need to do the right thing.
He is the living God, and steadfast forever;
His kingdom is the one which shall not be destroyed,
And His dominion shall endure to the end.
He delivers and rescues, and He works signs and wonders in heaven and on earth,
Who has delivered Daniel from the power of the lions (Daniel 6:26-27).
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