“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” (Dan 1:8)

Nebuchadnezzar, the King of Babylon had conquered Judah, destroyed Jerusalem and carried many into exile. This is according to the prophets who warned God’s people that if they continue in rebellion, they will suffer, they will lose their place of worship and He will scatter them abroad.

Daniel was one of the young men carried to Babylon. His name in Hebrew means ‘The Judgment of Jehovah’. He was selected to serve the king. That sounded as a promotion. But over there, in the midst of riches and worldly splendor, young Daniel made a decision that saved his life and established his testimony as a true man of God. He also became a great inspiration for all believers, especially for the youth. Daniel decided that whatever the situation, he will not compromise his faith in God. He will not become an idol worshipper, even if he has to die. He will not allow anything and anyone, no matter how precious, to come in between him and God.

This was not an easy decision. Babylon was the greatest nation at that time. They were known for their cruelty and wickedness. They captured the king of Judah and carried him to Babylon. Over there, they killed his sons in his presence. Then they removed his eyes, so that the last memory he will have will be the death of his sons. Babylon was a pagan kingdom, rich, powerful and evil. Daniel knew that he needed the wisdom and favor of God not only to survive but to keep himself pure in the midst of the pagan oppressors. He quietly decided that he will not eat the meat or drink the wine coming from the king’s table. He knew these were a sacrifice to idols. He asked for permission from the eunuch in charge and miraculously, it was granted to him. This ‘simple’ decision was the foundation of his godly, successful and long life.

Please observe the type of ‘Christianity’ Daniel practiced. He did not become rude or proud. He did not become a religious fanatic. He was a man of Prayer and of the Word of God. God does not need an army with sophisticated weapons to judge a nation of a situation where sin abounds. One man ‘sold to God’ is enough! God judged the mighty idols of Babylon thru the quiet final decision of a teenager, who, in a land of darkness and sin, chose to remain pure, separated and faithful to His God. ‘In quietness and trust shall be your strength’ (Is 30:15). His quiet decision was settled in his spirit. From that time on, the mystery of holiness shall define him. That was his secret. That was his strength. That was his inspiration. That became the root of his testimony and the anchor of his soul, all the days of his life. In other words, Daniel honored God and God honored him. Daniel trusted God and God trusted him! So simple, but so profound!

May you desire the same! May you be jealous over your testimony as a child of God! Young people, the world wants to steal your purity, your passion for Jesus and your desire to worship God! Do not fear to be different! You do not have to imitate the culture you live in! Come to Jesus! Give your heart completely to the king of kings! Be a citizen of heaven! Be an ambassador of Christ! Do not fear to stand for your faith! Quietness and purity, these are virtues and great weapons in the hand of God! May Daniel be your brother and your friend! May you be encouraged today!

In Christ I declare:

I am a child of God!

I am dead to sin, to the world and to the devil!

The World behind me, the Cross before me!

I no longer live but Christ lives in me!

No matter the circumstances, I shall remain faithful to God!

I will serve Christ, my Lord, all the days of my life!

Daniel is my brother!

In Jesus name

Amen!