RTW 2024

But Daniel was determined not to defile himself by eating the food and wine given to them by the king. He asked the chief of staff for permission not to eat these unacceptable foods.

Daniel 1:8

Daniel remained steadfast in his commitment to God, while remaining respectful to his earthly authority.

Daniel and his friends were determined to give God their best. 

The Bible has several examples of those who were determined to give God their best.

• Joseph in Egypt.
• Esther in Persia.
• Daniel in Babylon.

Daniel had a lot to complain about. He was

• Moved from the security of his norm, against his will.
• Given a new name, contrary to the meaning of his name.
• Forced to learn and live a new way of life.

Yet Daniel

• Remained steadfast and faithful to God.
• Rejected, with respect, the Babylonian ways.
• Respected his oppressor.

Rather than complaining about where we are, let’s ask God to use where we are. 

“I think that a Christian man should be willing to be tried; he should be pleased to let his religion be put to the test.” - Charles Spurgeon

Wow! What a connection to make between Satan and King Nebby.

Loved this from Enduringword.com

Satan uses a similar strategy as Nebuchadnezzar. He wants to indoctrinate us into the world system. Satan wants us to:

• Identify (name) us in reference to the world.
• Feed us what the world offers.
• Educate us in the ways of the world.

Live to give God my best.