Bible Chapter: Daniel 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
During King Jehoiakim of Judah’s third year in power, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon came and besieged Jerusalem.  He defeated King Jehoiakim and he took some of the sacred objects from the Temple.  Nebuchadnezzar took them back placed them in the treasure-house of his god.  He also took captive many of the best and brightest young men to train them in his service.  Included in that group was Daniel.  They were all put through a three year training course and then given responsibilities in the government.
One day King Nebuchadnezzar had a dream.  He couldn’t remember it and so he called the wise men to come and tell him what it was and what it meant.  This frustrated them all because they said no king had ever demanded that the wise men tell what a dream was.  The king was angry and ready to kill them all.  Daniel and his friends prayed and God revealed the dream and the meaning to Daniel.  When he told the king about the dream and meaning, he was promoted.  Daniel was very clear to give all the credit to God.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
In my opinion, one of the most powerful and challenging verses in the Bible is Daniel 1:8.  It says that Daniel purposed in his heart to not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat and wine.  Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego all determined that they were going to live by God’s standards, even if they lived in a foreign land and had been commanded by the king to act in a different way.  Babylon’s moral and spiritual climate was completely corrupt.  They believed that the food and wine that they were offered had probably had been offered to idols.  This would have violated God’s laws to eat it.  Drinking the wine would have dulled their minds because of its intoxicating effect.
Daniel made up his mind, he purposed in his heart not to compromise his values and convictions, even if it meant death.  His love for God filled his heart and he only wanted to serve the Lord.  This is an amazing lesson for everyone.  Temptation is strong.  Compromise is deadly.  We must resist and serve God, leaving the results to HIM.

3.  How can I help someone?
So many people let what other people say influence them, even to the point of destruction.  They are afraid to stand for right and truth.  The influence of the crowd is dangerous.  Just because something is popular and common doesn’t make it right.  Seek God and follow His ways.