Daily Reflections, Monday, February 11, 2008

Today's Scripture: Daniel 6

It has been said of Daniel, "He was in Babylon, but Babylon wasn’t in him." Daniel’s biggest test was not facing the fear of the lion’s den. Strong faith in God’s will had prepared his heart for death many years before. Daniel’s biggest test was living 70 plus years in the decadent culture of Babylon. This hedonistic society was exponentially worse than even our present American culture.

Here was Daniel, called by God to serve in the highest levels of government. Called to serve kings who worshipped other gods, engaged in pagan rituals, and ruthlessly cut down their enemies. Called by God to be a light in a dark world. Daniel had a choice. He could become part of the world, or he could stay faithful to God—and be different.

Daniel chose to be different. Along the way, God blessed him with a spot less reputation and promotion. He was probably blessed with great wealth and luxuries beyond what he expected as a Hebrew refugee. But Daniel also had a mark on his back, as a believer in an unbelieving world.

Sound familiar? Many Christians have declared their willingness to die for Christ at any cost. But how many are willing, like Daniel, to live for Christ? Daniel’s biggest test, and yours, is to dare to be different in a world that hates God.

Today's Quote:  But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people. —1 Peter 2:9