Evaluate Your Life

Donovan Thomas, Contributor

Our study today comes from Daniel chapter 1 in which we see four young men ­ Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego ­ taking a stand for right, living in the midst of life threatening circumstances. Their example challenges us today to be:-

MEN OF CONVICTION

Let us assess the circumstances of Daniel and his friends. They had been subjected to the effects of war. Their homes had been destroyed and they were forced out of their comfort zone to a strange place. For many of us it would be 'when in Rome, do as the Romans do'. We read however that Daniel 'purposed in his heart' (vs. 8) that he would not depart from the principles of righteousness on which he had based his life up to this point. Together these four young men took a decision ­ to be faithful to their convictions, to live according to the principles of righteousness found in the Word of God. The challenge comes to you today to be a man, a woman of conviction. Like Daniel and his friends, even in the face of adversity, you still have the option to choose principles of right living.

MEN OF COURAGE

As captives in a foreign land, it took great courage for these young men to take the stand they did. Freedom was no longer theirs. The king's servant who was responsible for them feared for his own life if the step taken did not produce the desired results (vs. 10). The king, if he got word that they had rejected his offer, could have them killed or otherwise punished. They chose to stand however, in spite of the risks to themselves. The call is for us today to be men and women of courage.

MEN OF CLEVERNESS

Daniel and his friends were no fools. They earned the respect of the king as their abilities were recognised. They were commended as they surpassed all others in their field (vs. 17-20). The man who takes a stand for righteousness has the support of Almighty God and will see positive effects in his life.

PRAYER

Eternal Father, bless our land, and help us oh Father, even in the face of difficult circumstances, to be men and women who have the courage to establish and follow principles of right living and truth. Amen.

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