What does Daniel 10:12 mean?
Numerous encounters with angels include the celestial beings telling humans not to be afraid, or people reacting with overt fear (Numbers 22:31; Daniel 8:16–17; Luke 1:13, 30; 2:9–10; Acts 10:3–4). In their "natural" spiritual state, these beings are intimidating and otherworldly. This angel is most likely Gabriel (Daniel 8:15–16; 9:21–22; Luke 1:26), who has come with reassurance and instruction for Daniel.The angel commends Daniel for consistently and humbly seeking to understand God's messages. It had been three weeks between Daniel's initial vision (Daniel 10:1–3) and this encounter (Daniel 10:5–11, 13). Yet God had heard Daniel's prayers from the moment they were spoken. Although Daniel was a modest and devoted prophet of the Lord, the answer to his prayers did not arrive immediately. The following verses give the reason for the delay (Daniel 10:13–14).
Similarly, a believer today may wonder if their prayers are not being heard, because they do not see immediate answers. We should not be discouraged, however, nor should we stop praying. God hears the prayers of a humble believer, and He answers at the right time. Hebrews 4:16 encourages believers to draw near to God's throne of grace to find mercy and grace "in time of need." Jesus encouraged His disciples to pray. He said, "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you" (Matthew 7:7).