Stand up for what you believe in.
But as much as possible, do it without being a jerk.
I appreciate and respect Daniel’s desire to “not to defile himself with the royal food and wine”, but I admire him even more for asking for permission “to not to defile himself this way”.
There was no sense of entitlement.
There was no attitude.
There was simply a request on his part to live a certain way, a way that was contrary to the Babylonian way.
And his request paid off in more ways than one.
First of all, “they looked healthier and better nourished” than those who ate the royal food and wine, but more than that, God gave to Daniel the ability to “understand visions and dreams of all kinds.”
So, wherever you find yourself in life, make sure you stand up for what you believe in.
Just make sure you do it the right way.
#1 by Jason Rogers - March 5th, 2010 at 14:22
I’ve heard it speculated that the young Israelite men (or those of any captured enemy nation) were castrated prior to being put into the pagan king’s service. Is this notion evidenced in that there are no reported wives or children of Daniel?
With that in mind, and in the context of holding a good attitude, would I be so gracious as Daniel if I was “modified” as such and still seek to honor God?
To be put into “slavery” is one thing – but to do that along with taking away one’s “manhood” – wow, ONLY by the grace of God could I still live and act honorably for Him.