dare to be a daniel (pt.1)

The book of Daniel has been a beloved part of Scripture for generations of believers, many of whom will have sang with great enthusiasm…

Dare to be a Daniel

Dare to stand alone

Dare to have a purpose firm

And dare to make it known 

Daniel’s life is actually set against the background of national failure and the resulting tumultuous upheaval of the exile. The Babylonian army marched into Israel with irresistible force, taking the people captive and looting the temple of all its sacred treasures. 

Daniel is part of that sorry line of slaves who are taken at least 500 miles round the Fertile Crescent to the city of Babylon.

How would this young man fair amidst Babylon’s bright and alluring lights? Well, chapter one of the book gives fascinating insights into how Daniel handled this period of his life.

It quickly becomes apparent that long before Daniel arrived in Babylon, he had settled the central matters of life and faith. In a time of national upheaval he found rest in God. And so he had the necessary resources in God to enable him to navigate life in that pagan environment.

He exemplifies the wise life set out in Proverbs 1-9. ”The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding” (Proverbs 9:10). 

 

With that background reflect on what the king of Babylon sought to do in Daniel’s life - he tried to indoctrinate him at 'King’s College, Babylon' where he was taught the language and literature of the Babylonians. The key phrase here is, “the king ordered” (1:3). He attempted to influence Daniel with human power and it did not work - “Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine” (1:9).

The king ordered…Daniel resolved…

His stand is deeply impressive. 

Consider then what the God of heaven did for Daniel - he provided insight beyond mere human intellect. The key phrase at this point is, “God gave” (1:17). “God gave knowledge and understanding…” God moved in Daniel’s life in divine grace to equip him to maintain a faithful walk with him.

God gave…Daniel trusted… 

His faith is a powerful example for us today (See Proverbs 3:5-6). 

Dare to be a Daniel…

Dare to…trust God even when life’s circumstances suggest otherwise.

(picture - Bellahouston Park, Sept. 6)