Daniel
Daniel
Daniel wrote this book from about 605-535 BC to give an historical account of the Jewish people who lived in captivity and to show how God is in control of the heavens and the earth, directing the forces of nature, the destiny of nations, and the care of His people.
The Babylonians tried to change the thinking of the Jews by giving them Chaldean education, their loyalty by changing their names, and their lifestyle by changing their diet. Without compromising Daniel found a way to live by God’s standards in a culture that did not honour God.
“As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” (Daniel 1 v 17)
Daniel and his friends learned all they could about their new culture, so they could do their work with excellence. But while they learned, they maintained steadfast allegiance to God. Culture is not God’s enemy if it does not violate his commands, it can aid in accomplishing its purpose.
Daniel became one of Darius most trusted advisers. His privileged position angered other individuals who plotted his death by convincing the King to outlaw prayer. In spite of the law, Daniel continued to pray to his God. As a result he was condemned to die in a den of hungry lions. God intervened, shutting the mouths of the lions.
Daniel stands tall in the gallery of God’s remarkable servants. Born of royal heritage, yet taken into captivity when only a teenager. Daniel was determined to remain faithful to God, even at great personal cost. Daniel spent his entire lifetime advising his captors with unusual wisdom.
God chose him to record some events of the captivity and some significant events concerning the future. In summary, faithfulness to God has a rich reward in this life and most certainly in the life to come in God’s eternal Kingdom.