Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Hindrances to the Kingdom of God.
Daniel 1:1-9
“But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine.” (8)

The book of Daniel, also referred to as the “Book of Revelations" of the Old Testament, is a book of prophecy of God’s judgment. One of its’ main themes is the sovereignty of God. God had warned the Israelites of the impending judgment through the prophets (Jeremiah 5:15, 19:3). Due to their sins God gave Jerusalem into the hands of the Babylonians.(1:2) Babylon, a wicked nation, is used as an instrument to punish Judea. Daniel, a youth of Jerusalem of aristocratic standing (1:3) had also been carried to Babylon to serve in the king’s palace. They tried to indoctrinate him and his friends into the Babylonian culture (1:4-7). He had faith in God’s ability and his conviction was so deep, so he asked for an exemption (1:12). God made Ashpenaz, the chief of the court officials to be kind and loyal to Daniel, just like God made Potiphar and the prison warden to show favor to Joseph.(Genesis 39:4,21)  Daniel is an example of how good nurturing in Godly principles can help us to live in control in an out of control world, without being a hindrance to the Kingdom of God.
I. Daniel resolved not to compromise his beliefs.
Daniel refused to give up his principles and compromise his faith even under pressure. He trusted God to be his true companion. (Hebrew 13:5).  Daniel knew who he was and who his God was at an early age. His unshakeable faith and strong conviction in the living God helped him to stand tall for God in a godless culture.
2. Daniel was humble. Even though of royal blood, he address himself as ‘servant’ to the guard. He showed true humility. (1:12)
3. Daniel had self-control. He did not want to indulge in the dainties provided because he might have remembered David's prayer(psalm141:4) and Solomon’s counsel (Proverbs 23:3)
4. Daniel did not believe in making excuses. Complete obedience to God became more important to Daniel.(Revelation 3:16)
5. Daniel was a righteous man, a man of wisdom and Jesus called him a prophet. (Ezekiel 14:14, 20.28:3,Matthew 24:15)
Today’s passage is an open testament and a challenge to all of us. Daniel, a young adult had the courage to rise up above all kinds of peer pressures. (Proverbs 22:6, 2 Corinthians 12:9).  Our God cares and acknowledges those who love and put their trust in Him. (Nahum 1:7, Romans 8:28,Matthew 10:32-33, Revelation 2:10) Meditating on God’s Word daily will help us to lead a life that will glorify God.(Psalm 119:9-16).

 Prayer: Lord, give us wisdom for discernment, so that we may not be a hindrance to the kingdom of God.

Thought for the day:   Do we have a deep conviction like young Daniel to shine for God  in all.

Philip Manuel &Laila Anie Philip , Carmel MTC, Boston.
  

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