What if we are forced to compromise our beliefs? What if our lives are on the line?
Daniel shows us how to trust and follow God in a very pressing situation. Where most of us would either compromise or give up.
Daniel is presented with food from the king that is against the dietary restrictions God had required of the Jews. But as a captive and servant of the king, it seemed he must do whatever the king asks.
Yet, what do we find with Daniel.
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.
He determined to obey God and then appealed to his authorities, and God met him there.
Again, we find Daniel in an impossible situation as the king has demanded that the wise people tell him his dream and then interpret it. Impossible, but when the king was told it was impossible, he sentenced all the wise counsellors to be put to death.
Daniel 2:14-16
When Arioch, the commander of the king’s guard, had gone out to put to death the wise men of Babylon, Daniel spoke to him with wisdom and tact. 15 He asked the king’s officer, “Why did the king issue such a harsh decree?” Arioch then explained the matter to Daniel. 16 At this, Daniel went into the king and asked for time so that he might interpret the dream for him.
Daniel then asks his friends to plead with God, and God reveals the dream.
There is so much here we could touch on, but I am struck by the faith, courage, and wisdom of Daniel.
He lived out true belief in God. When faced with forced compromise, he determined not to compromise and appealed to those in authority,over him and trusted God. When presented with the impossible and his life was on the line. He asks for clarification, appeals to his authority, asks for the prayers of his friends, and sought God.
No compromise. Submitted to authority. Did not panic or become defensive, invited others to pray with Him. Sought God and obeyed.
I have much to learn from Daniel and how faith in God is lived out.
