Daniel 1:8
But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.
As children of God, we live in a world full of many things that can defile us in our walk with God. Sometimes we find ourselves cornered and under pressure to succumb to worldly pressures that will make us unclean before God.
As a young boy from Judah, Daniel adhered to the laws of God, and was one to shy away from everything that defiled him, including foods. However, he found himself in an awkward position. He was a captive in Babylon, under strict instructions from King Nebuchadnezzar, his captor! These instructions if followed through would defile Daniel.
Daniel stood up for purity. He chose to live holy. He forsook the pleasure of feasting on food defiled in God's eyes, even though it must have looked pleasing to the eye. God gave him favour with the officials that took care of him. When we stand for God, He preserves us and causes even our enemies to be at peace with us.
Daniel 1:9 NIV
Now God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel.
In the end, God honoured Daniel for standing for purity. He set him apart. He looked physically better, and was intellectually above his folks.
Daniel 1:19-20 NIV
The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king’s service. In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.
God is faithful! When we choose to live holy and separated unto Him, He honours us.
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