September 11, 2019: SOAP #3569:  Daniel 1-2; Revelation 16

Scripture:  Daniel (NIV) 1:8 But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself in this way. …
11 Daniel then said to the guard whom the chief official had appointed over Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, 12 “Please test your servants for ten days: Give us nothing but vegetables to eat and water to drink. …17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. … 19 The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king’s service.

Observation:  Daniel’s courageous commitment to honoring God obviously had a great effect on those known as the three Hebrew children.  They participated with Daniel in refraining from eating the royal food.  God’s blessing on Daniel extended to them.  Daniel was later thrown to the lions and these three were thrown into a fiery furnace.

Application:   When God calls us to take a stand, we need to carefully follow His directions.  It will obviously go better for us, and who knows who is watching and will be influenced to follow.  The greatest victory for the Kingdom of God may come from someone who follows in our steps.

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, thank you for the power of influence.  Thank you that people watching our lives can be encouraged to be fully committed to you.  Use us and use our influence for your glory.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!