Holy Scripture

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

Believers can trust in God’s presence.

An abiding belief in the unwavering presence of God was inherent in Daniel’s courage and obedience. While this facet of Daniel’s faith is not mentioned implicitly in this verse, Daniel’s trust that God was with him allowed him to follow God and obey God’s law. He knew that Yahweh was with him and that made all the difference.

As New Covenant believers, we have the same promise from God. Jesus declared He would be with us until the very end (Matthew 28:20). The letter of Hebrews reminds that God “will never leave us or forsake us.” (Hebrews 13:5)  We can live by this promise just as Daniel did so long ago.

I would add one caution today.  While we know that God is with us, it will not always FEEL like God is with us. We will not always have the ability to sense His presence. But, even when don’t feel it, we know that God’s Word is true and that His promises never fail. We can press forward in obedience knowing God’s eternal presence is with us each step of the way.

Be encouraged, dear Christian. You are never alone. Christ is with us and will be forevermore. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Tony French