The Power of Divine Assistance in Times of Despair
"Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries." - Daniel 11:34
**Introduction**
The book of Daniel contains profound revelations about the struggles of God's people in the face of adversity, particularly during times of persecution and trials. Among these verses, Daniel 11:34 gives us a glimpse into the nature of assistance in tribulation and the pervasive influence of deceitful flattery among those who look for respite.
**Verse Analysis**
The verse reads: "Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries" (KJV). This passage speaks to two key elements: the fall of the faithful and the assistance they receive, albeit limited. The latter part serves as a warning about the dangers of empty words and insincere support.
**Understanding the Context**
This chapter of Daniel alludes to both historical events and future prophecies that depict a conflict between good and evil. The “they” mentioned refers to the faithful Israelites who endure persecution under oppressive regimes. The phrase “they shall fall” highlights the reality of suffering and the presence of trials in the lives of those who follow God. Despite their struggles, the assurance is that even in their fallen state, they will be “holpen” or helped by God in some measure.
**The Nature of Help**
When we describe help as “a little,” it can feel disheartening. However, God’s ways are not our ways, and often, His help arrives in humble forms. It can come as a gentle reminder, a friend’s encouragement, or a quiet moment of peace amidst chaos. The essence of divine assistance often lies in its subtlety; it may not fulfill our expectations but rather serves to remind us of our dependency on Him.
**God’s Provision in Weakness**
In moments when we feel we are at our lowest, it is in those very instances that God’s strength is revealed. Paul expounds on this principle in 2 Corinthians 12:9, saying, "My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness." Thus, what may appear to be merely a "little help" can become the bedrock upon which we stand and find rejuvenation. The help that comes from the Lord is more profound than we might initially perceive.
**The Danger of Flattery**
The verse's second half warns about the temptations that come alongside genuine need. During vulnerable times, many will indeed “cleave to them with flatteries.” Flattery is seductive and can easily lead us to distractions and false comforts. Peculiarly, it can take the form of a false sense of security where we lean toward the praises of men rather than the guidance of God. These insincere gestures can draw us away from genuine relationships and divine truths, leading to more profound despair.
**A Call to Discernment**
In our search for help, we must remain discerning. It’s easy to be swayed by flattering words and empty promises. We should strive to surround ourselves with individuals who point us back to Christ, who embody truth and integrity rather than those who seek to manipulate our feelings for their gain.
**Conclusion**
As we navigate through life's tumultuous waters, let’s remember that God’s help, although it may come in small measures, is invaluable. Let us also discern the voices we listen to, ensuring they lead us towards the steadfastness of faith rather than flattery that seeks to lead us astray. May we cling to the true Helper, the Lord, who has promised never to leave nor forsake us, recognizing that even in our lowest moments, He offers a lifeline of true support and love away from deceiving words.
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Daniel 11:34 Artwork
Daniel 11:34 - "Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries."
"Now when they shall fall, they shall be holpen with a little help: but many shall cleave to them with flatteries." - Daniel 11:34
Daniel 1:11 - "Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah,"
Daniel 6:11 - "Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God."
"Then said Daniel to Melzar, whom the prince of the eunuchs had set over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah," - Daniel 1:11
Daniel 2:34 - "Thou sawest till that a stone was cut out without hands, which smote the image upon his feet that were of iron and clay, and brake them to pieces."
Nehemiah 11:34 - "Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat,"
"Then these men assembled, and found Daniel praying and making supplication before his God." - Daniel 6:11
Daniel 11:29 - "At the time appointed he shall return, and come toward the south; but it shall not be as the former, or as the latter."
Daniel 3:11 - "And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth, that he should be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace."
"Hadid, Zeboim, Neballat," - Nehemiah 11:34
Daniel 11:1 - "Also I in the first year of Darius the Mede, even I, stood to confirm and to strengthen him."
Daniel 11:9 - "So the king of the south shall come into his kingdom, and shall return into his own land."
Daniel 11:3 - "And a mighty king shall stand up, that shall rule with great dominion, and do according to his will."
1 Chronicles 11:34 - "The sons of Hashem the Gizonite, Jonathan the son of Shage the Hararite,"
Daniel 11:42 - "He shall stretch forth his hand also upon the countries: and the land of Egypt shall not escape."
Daniel 11:22 - "And with the arms of a flood shall they be overflown from before him, and shall be broken; yea, also the prince of the covenant."
Daniel 4:11 - "The tree grew, and was strong, and the height thereof reached unto heaven, and the sight thereof to the end of all the earth:"
Daniel 10:11 - "And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling."
Numbers 11:34 - "And he called the name of that place Kibroth-hattaavah: because there they buried the people that lusted."
Images that depicts the verse Matthew 27:11-34
Daniel 11:11 - "And the king of the south shall be moved with choler, and shall come forth and fight with him, even with the king of the north: and he shall set forth a great multitude; but the multitude shall be given into his hand."
Daniel 11:19 - "Then he shall turn his face toward the fort of his own land: but he shall stumble and fall, and not be found."
Daniel 11:33 - "And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days."
Romans 11:34 - "For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?"
Daniel 2:11 - "And it is a rare thing that the king requireth, and there is none other that can shew it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh."
Psalms 34:11 - "Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the LORD."
Daniel 11:32 - "And such as do wickedly against the covenant shall he corrupt by flatteries: but the people that do know their God shall be strong, and do exploits."
Daniel 8:11 - "Yea, he magnified himself even to the prince of the host, and by him the daily sacrifice was taken away, and the place of his sanctuary was cast down."
Daniel 11:23 - "And after the league made with him he shall work deceitfully: for he shall come up, and shall become strong with a small people."