Outsiders Welcome

Then Daniel was brought in before the king. The king spoke and said to Daniel, “Are you that Daniel who is one of the exiles from Judah, whom my father the king brought from Judah?

Daniel 5:13

**Believers will feel like outsiders in this world.

Daniel’s principles for Godly living are important to us today. No matter where he went or what he did Daniel could never escape Babylon. He was away from his homeland and all that was familiar. Yet, despite all of that, Daniel never lost his faith in God and he continued to serve the Lord all throughout his life. Daniel gives us a timely example of how we are to live in this day and age.

His life in some ways mirrors our own. We live in a land that is becoming more and more hostile to Biblical truth and morality. Our country feels more foreign to us each day. We are called to live holy lives in this age nonetheless. How can we live in this manner?

1. Learn the truths of Scripture. Continue in Bible study and learning each and every day. Daniel knew the truths of Yahweh. Daniel’s heart was guided and guarded because he knew God’s ways and God’s will. The same should be true of Christians in this present age.

2. Seek to obey God. Obeying God is counter to our current culture. It’s not easy and obedience is not always safe. But, following God is always worth the cost. We never regret obeying God’s Word!

3. Trust God daily.  Living as an outsider with different beliefs, thoughts, and actions can be lonely and exhausting. Quitting and giving up is a constant temptation. Choose to trust Christ each and every day. Remember the words of Proverbs 3:5-6;

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Tony French