DAY24 Gaining Respect
Today’s Bible Reading
Daniel 1:1-16
Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself. —Daniel 1:8
When a professional musician nicknamed “Happy” became a Christian, he quit playing in nightclubs and offered his services to a rescue mission. Some time later, he received a phone call from a club manager who wanted to hire him to do a show that would have brought in a lot of money. But Happy turned down the offer, telling the manager that he would be playing at the mission. Happy said, “He congratulated me. That surprised me. Here was a man who wanted me to play for him and he was congratulating me for refusing his offer.” The manager respected Happy’s decision.
Daniel was a captive in a foreign land, but he did not forget his religious principles. He could not in good conscience eat meat that had been dedicated to a pagan god and had not been slaughtered in accordance with Hebrew laws. He asked for a simple fare of vegetables and water, and the steward risked his life to honor his request. I believe he did this because Daniel’s noble conduct had earned his respect.
The world looks with disdain on Christians who do not live what they say they believe. That’s why we should remain true to our convictions. Consistency of character is what gains the respect of others.
By Herbert Vander Lugt
Questions:
1. What happened to Daniel (Daniel 1:3-7)? Try to put yourself in his shoes. How would you feel if something similar happened to you?
2. What did Daniel do as he and his friends faced this situation (Daniel 1:8-14)? Why did he do this?
3. Would you have done something similar to what Daniel did that showed his reverence to God? Why or why not? What is one area in your life in which God is calling you to “dare to be a Daniel, dare to stand alone; dare to have a purpose firm, dare to make it known”?
Prayer:
Lord, help me live only for You and be consistent in my behavior, reflecting my faith in You.