In recent years there have been a number of books written by people claiming to have had “out of body” or “near death” experiences in which they saw heaven, hell, or eternity. Unfortunately, these “revelations” cannot be deemed as authoritative—but there is one glimpse of heavenly activity that can.

After Daniel prayed for three weeks for understanding of the vision he had seen, a “certain man” (angel) appeared before him with answers. He revealed to Daniel that he had set out from heaven on the first day of Daniel’s prayers, but that he had been obstructed by a demonic angel—the prince of Persia—for 21 days. That is, the entire three weeks that Daniel was praying, there was spiritual warfare between heaven and earth that delayed the answer to his prayers.

Jesus taught his disciples to “pray and not lose heart” (Luke 18:1). Let’s leave the timing of God’s answers to Him as we imitate Daniel—praying and not losing heart.

Days of trouble must be days of prayer.

Matthew Henry