But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Daniel 1:8
…We should trust in God’s Word.
Daniel resolved in his heart to live a holy and Godly life. Daniel made this decision in the midst of a pagan, decadent society. While he was not perfect, he was able to keep himself pure over the course of many years.
What allowed Daniel to keep his witness while serving in the highest levels of government? While many things come to mind, I’m sure one of them was this—Daniel trusted in God’s Word. His faith in God’s revelation kept him grounded and steady as he sought to live for Yahweh.
Daniel knew the Word of God. He knew the Law of Moses and he understood what was required of God’s people. If we are to persevere and keep our witness in tact we must spend time in the Bible as well. We have to read it and study it often to know what God expects of saved, born-again Christians.
Daniel trusted in God’s Word. He made a decision to follow its teachings even when it was difficult. He resolved to live by the Torah even though it did cost him and his friends. We ought to trust in Scripture for our daily lives. God knows what is best for us and He reveals that in His Word. We can trust Him through the difficulties, trials, and puzzling times of life.
Finally, Daniel obeyed God’s Word. He choose the path of obedience and God blessed him. Let us resolve to obey the Word of God as well. Our obedience may not lead to the prominence that Daniel received. But, our obedience is necessary for God to work mightily in us.
Trust in God’s Word, Believer. It won’t be easy. But, obedience will always be worth the cost.
Tony French