Shine On!

Daniel 1:1-20

Daniel's Training in Babylon

3 Then the king ordered Ashpenaz, chief of his court officials, to bring in some of the Israelites from the royal family and the nobility- 4 young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king's palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. 5 The king assigned them a daily amount of food and wine from the king's table. They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service.

6 Among these were some from Judah: Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.

8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. 9 Now God had caused the official to show favor and sympathy to Daniel,

15 At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food. 16 So the guard took away their choice food and the wine they were to drink and gave them vegetables instead.

17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.

20 In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.

Bee's Thoughts:

Hmmn... it looks like a Manhunt contest ya. :)

Daniel stood out as he stood up for what is right. He "resolved (determined) not to defile himself" like the rest of the people.

From the above passage we could learn some truth about Christians who choose to honour God (v8):
1. God can cause others to show more "favour and sympathy" for them (v9).
2. They are healthier as they eat sensibly instead of indulging themselves in unhealthy lifestyle of gluttony (v15, 16).
3. God is the one who grants them "knowledge and understanding" (v17, 20).
4. They perform better than their peers.

Yes, Christians are the salt and light of the earth (Matthew 5:13-16). They are in the world but not of the world. However, if they choose to compromise then they have lose their "flavour" and "brightness"... so no difference from non-Christians.

Do we dare to stand up for God and be different just like Daniel did?

Dear Lord,
Thank You for the example of Daniel, who stood up for You, who determined in his heart not to sin against You. Thank You that You will bless those who honour You. Let me shine on too, that people may see my good deeds and praise Your name.
In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.