Daniel’s Faithfulness
Daniel 1:8-21
V8 - But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king's food, or with the wine that he drank.
Daniel was familiar with the Word he knew that just because he was not in his home land participating in the actions of those around him wasn’t an option. His resolve was to be faithful to his God no matter the cost.
V9 - God gave Daniel favor and compassion in the sight of the chief of the eunuchs.
When we serve God with our whole lives He gives us favor. God leads us even when we don’t realize it, just because Daniel was being held captive didn’t mean he was a prisoner. Makes me wonder are we free, what is holding us captive today? Why won’t lay it down and walk in His freedom.
V11-13 wisdom on Daniel’s part he trusted in his God and was expecting he would be rewarded for his faithfulness to God because of it. There are many references between Daniel & the book of Revelation in Rev 2.10 “Do not fear what you are about to suffer. Behold, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and for ten days you will have tribulation. Be faithful unto death, and I will give you the crown of life.”
Here to is a test of faith - just as Daniel and his companions had to trust in the Lord so will those saints of the tribulation hour. I think this is a good lesson for us to keep our trust in the Lord for every situation.
V14 - 16 God showed Himself faithful to Daniel and the others. We too can experience this kind of walk in our lives as we trust in God we can go forward in a belief that He is faithful to us.
V17 - As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. God gave them ( Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah) learning and skill. These men were set apart by God to do specific work and task for the position He called them to. The same can be said for us today, God has called us to a specific work we are accountable to Him for these gifts and callings. Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.
To Daniel God gave a very specific gift and calling regarding dreams and visions. I still believe in the gifts of the spirit, yet I think we see less of them because those whom God would offer to use in these areas refuse to separate themselves for the work of God.
Here's are few things to consider from our text:
- Living for God means staying close to His heart and not giving in to compromise.
- Living for God keeps in good standing with men as well as with God.
- Our faithfulness to God brings blessings to others as well as ourselves.
- Never look at the situation you find yourself in as a problem, but like these men look to God and commit yourself to serve Him in faithfulness and seek ways to be a blessing to others.
Amen
Pastor J