Scripture

God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meaning of visions and dreams.

Observation

At the beginning of the exile in Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar orders his chief of staff to bring to the palace some of the young men of Judah’s leading families. They are to be trained in Babylonian culture and wisdom, and they are to be fed from the royal kitchen.

Daniel is determined not to defile himself by eating unclean food. So he asks for permission to only eat vegetables and drink water. When the chief is staff is reluctant to do this, Daniel persuades him to give them a 10 day trial At the end of the 10 days. Daniel and his friends look healthier than those who were not on the restricted diet.

God blesses Daniel and his three friends with an aptitude for learning. To Daniel, he gives the ability to interpret dreams. The king consults these four men whenever he needs particular wisdom and balanced judgement.

Application

Daniel and his fellow exiles, found themselves thrust into a deeply pagan culture, Daniel, Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego end up in the pinnacle of the culture, the Royal Palace.

It seems that God gifted these four men with great wisdom and learning, This would position them to affect the way the whole empire was administered. Rather than being shaped by the culture, they were there to shape the culture.

God gives each person a particular place to shine His light. He also gives us each the gifts and abilities that we need to fulfil that purpose.

Let us find the place. God has appointed for us and be there as the culture shapers He calls us to be.

Prayer

Thank you, Lord, for your unique place and purpose. Please help me to be your witness in the place that you have called me to be. Amen