Daniel

Scripture: 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.  Daniel 1: 17

The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah:  so they entered the king's service.  Daniel 1:19

In reading through the book of Daniel, I am always amazed at how Daniel and his friends stood up for their beliefs.  The first three chapters of the book describe the spiritual integrity of Daniel and his three friends.  Selected for government service, they resist the pressure to conform to their pagan environment and instead take a clear-cut stand for the God of Israel.  Whether in matters of diet, truthfulness, or spiritual discipline, the four young men live out their convictions---even at the risk of their lives.

Not only did they make decisive decisions, they also made discerning decisions.  When faced with a three-year "Bachelor of Babylonia" training program, they accepted their new Babylonian names, but rejected their new diet.  Why?  Because it was the only part of the training program contrary to the law of God. Think about our culture --- what can I accept and what must I reject.  Like Daniel and his friends, can we dare to stand alone in matters where our convictions and culture clash?

Prayer: Lord, help us to look at and know our own beliefs for you.  Let us know and be willing to stand for them and for you.We often need your strength to do what we know is right for you. Give us that strength.  Amen

Marilyn (Jones) Albin                marilynalbin@yahoo.com