Day 256 – Daniel 1-3

Talking Points

• The book of Daniel is written after its author is taken into captivity in 605 BC. It is a historical and prophetic book, with the last 6 chapters being apocalyptic in nature. While the reader is given an encouraging account of Daniel and his friends and a profound detailing of end times events, the greatest revelation of the book is its picture of our sovereign, powerful, justice-loving God.
• Daniel was taken to Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar as a captive youth. He was chosen to be educated and serve in the king’s court because of his looks, intelligence, and health. The names of the youth were changed to make them more Babylonian – from names that honored God in their meanings to names that spoke of false gods.
• Completely submerged in the pagan culture, Daniel “made up in his mind that he would not defile himself” by partaking in the king’s delicacies (Daniel 1:8). Far from anyone who would care or even know, Daniel worships God by choosing to stand uncompromised. One of my favorite accounts — our great God is worthy of such fantastic worship!
• God blesses Daniel and his friends’ faithful obedience. They are given supernatural wisdom and the ability to discern dreams and visions. This giftedness results in their promotion and favor in the sight of King Nebuchadnezzar. Faithful obedience, whether mocked or misunderstood, is a testimony to God’s greatness. “Surely your God is a God of gods and a Lord of kings” (Daniel 2:47).

Thoughts

One of the most profound proclamations of faith can be found in Daniel. As Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego face the wrath of the king for refusing to bow and worship his idol, they utter this statement: “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire; and He will deliver us out of your hand, O king. But even if He does not, let it be known to you, O king, that we are not going to serve your gods or worship the golden image that you have set up” (Daniel 3:17-18).

Even if.

The only way to say such a thing is to actually know and trust God’s character. They knew He was able to save them. They knew He had commanded them not worship idols. They trusted in His power and in His righteousness. Simply, they followed His will and left everything up to Him.

Oh, to know God so deeply. And, to trust Him so completely. What I’m reminded of again and again as I read through His Word is: God wants us to know Him and He is worthy of unqualified trust. His character is impeccable and unchanging. We do not have weigh our circumstances and try to discern whether or not God is trustworthy in this situation or that. No, He is able to be trusted — always.

Even if.