Can you imagine waking up and finding that your land has been conquered and you are now loyal to a king who does not know your God? In addition, you have been “chosen” to be in a small group of men who get to receive the best education while living in the king’s palace with the best choices for food and drink. This was Daniel’s situation in the story we discussed this week. Although we have no knowledge of God speaking directly to Daniel, he clearly had the conviction to serve the king, but not in a way that would dishonor his God. He stepped up to lead his fellow friends by finding a way to serve the needs of his overseer, and ultimately king, while also maintaining his loyalty to God.
Are you that kind of a leader in the world that you live in everyday? That was the question we seemed to continue to come back to during my group’s table discussion. It seems clear from Daniel, and other scriptures in the bible, that we are called to serve our societies but NOT in a way that dishonors God. In addition, Daniel teaches us that a leader focused on God can take a stand with humility and graciousness toward those they oppose. Daniel used reason and his faith that God would provide to convince the overseer he did not need to eat the choice food from the king’s court to be strong and sharp minded. Daniel announced clearly what God commanded of him and chose to follow God’s command. Daniel led by example knowing God would be faithful.
How often do you see clearly the things that you should not partake in which society sees as good or ideal for you? Are you able to articulate God’s desire in a way that still honors those who do not know God or are still growing in their faith? Over this past week, I have been searching my heart and actions to see where God has been calling me to set myself apart from society in a way that brings glory and honor to Him. I pray that God will provide me with the graciousness, humility, and conviction that Daniel showed in our story (Daniel 1: 1-16) as I attempt to honor Him through my actions. Will you join me?