“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” Daniel 1:8
“If it is important to you, you’ll find a way. If not, you’ll find
an excuse.” – Ryan Blair”
When I saw this quote, I thought of the story of Daniel. He was just a young man when taken captive from Jerusalem to Babylon, along with other children who were part of the king’s family. The king of Babylon selected these children, to be educated because of their physical appearance, and their knowledge and understanding.
The Bible does not tell us anything about Daniel’s life before this, but because of how he conducted himself in this new environment, we can be sure that he had been taught about God and the necessity to obey His commandments and to live a clean, pure life. Now he found himself having to make some important decisions. He could have reasoned in his heart that he was in a different country, and so he should forget about what he had learned in the past and adapt himself to his new life. Even though he knew that his decisions might cost him a place of leadership, he was brave enough to stand up for his beliefs. He asked his overseer for permission to abstain from the rich foods and drinks offered, and just to have a simple diet.
Daniel and his three friends asked they be given a ten-day trial and then be compared with all the others. The result: Verse: 15: “And at the end of ten days their countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which did eat the portion of the king’s meat.”
Daniel’s faith in God was very important to Him, and because he stood steadfast, the Lord blessed him in Babylon and allowed him to be placed in a position of prominence in the country.
Our faith should be the most important thing in our lives. Therefore, we make it our priority. We put prayer, Bible reading, worship with others, and service for God at the top of our list. In our busy world, sometimes this takes effort, and we are tempted to make excuses to let them slide. But God will bless and honour us if we are faithful.
Psalm 84:11 “No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.”
What is important to you today?
Prayer: Lord, thank You for all the blessings you bestow upon us. Help us ever to realize that You are the most important person in our lives, and to put You first in every aspect of our lives.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
Comments are closed.