Dionysius was a powerful king of Syracuse in Sicily. Though Dionysius had immense wealth and luxury, he always lived in fear of assassination and betrayal because of his iron-fisted rule. A courtier named Damocles constantly praised the king, saying how lucky and happy Dionysius was to possess such a wonderful life of supreme power and riches. Growing tired of the flattery, Dionysius offered to switch places with Damocles for a day so he could experience the king’s fortune firsthand. Damocles was placed on a golden throne in the banquet hall. Servants treated him like the king, offering fine foods, rare perfumes, beautiful flowers, and lovely music. But well into the feast, Damocles glanced up and saw a sharp sword hanging directly above his head, held by only a single horsehair. Terrified that the hair might snap at any moment, Damocles could no longer enjoy the food, music, or riches. He begged the king to let him leave. Dionysius explained that this constant dread and danger was the reality of his everyday life as a ruler. As mere mortals, how often is our life in peril? We are unaware of the spiritual world all about us filled with demons and angels. We go about our daily business while the good Lord protects and guides our steps. Psalm 37:23, "The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.”
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