Daniel and his fellow three Hebrew boys (popularly known as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego) decided not to defy themselves with Nebuchadnezzar’s foods that violated their faith and practices. They chose to obey God than to lavish their stomach with Babylonian choice diet. Daniel, on behalf of others, said to the king’s servant,
“Please test your servants for ten days, and let them give us vegetables to eat and water to drink. Then let our appearance be examined before you, and the appearance of the young men who eat the portion of the king’s delicacies; and as you see fit, so deal with your servants.” So he consented with them in this matter, and tested them ten days” (Daniel 1:12-14). Since Daniel and his fellows honored God with their faith, God blessed them in return. The scripture stated, “As for these four young men, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. Now at the end of the days, when the king had said that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. Then the king interviewed them, and among them, all none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah; therefore they served before the king. And in all matters of wisdom and understanding about which the king examined them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers who were in all his realm” (Daniel 1:17-20).
Lesson:
God honors people of faith; he will stand by them and ensure they are not put to shame. In this time and age, acts of steadfast faith are becoming unpopular; however, God is seeking people who would make him proud in their decisions. Jehovah is searching for people who would stand up against opinions that are contradictory to his will. People who stand up for God will be honored; they will be favored above their peers, and their names will ever be affixed to God’s good book! Therefore, children of God must be close to their bible. We must search the scriptures to know God’s true requirements. Our lifestyle must be consistent with the bible, and we must consider satisfying God our top priority. Yes, our godly decisions may draw fire from other folks; they may attempt to abuse, oppress, and persecute us. Yet, crowns of righteousness will be waiting for us in heaven! The host of heaven will rate us high if we are resolute in our faith, and remain contrite Christians.
Prayers:
Dear God, please make me a confident Christian who will not settle for anything other than your requirements. Please make me a person of faith, and let me have resilient and unshifted bible principles. Let my professions and lifestyle meet your standard, so that your name can be glorified in this corrupt and evil world. Let me be your agent of light in this world of darkness, and let your testimony of victory ever remain in my mouth. Please keep me consistent with you so that I can be celebrated in heaven. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.
