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Devotion by Ben Stuart
Despite handing over his people to Babylon, the LORD was not inactive. He was in full control over both Babylon and Daniel. The same LORD that “gave” Jerusalem over to Babylon (1:2) also “gave” Daniel favor with the Babylonian officials (1:9) and “gave” Daniel learning, skill, and the ability to interpret dreams (1:17). In other words, the LORD gave Daniel and his friends favor and opportunities in order to change Babylon from the inside out.
The LORD rules over the nations and cares about you. He gives us favor and opportunities in the least expected spaces in order to extend his Kingdom and proclaim his Gospel. Where has he placed you? What gifts has he given you?
Daniel did not compromise. Daniel and his friends demonstrated unwavering trust in the LORD by choosing to honor Him instead of conforming to the pressure of Babylon. Their commitment to obedience brought them favor and wisdom from both the LORD and Babylon.
Think about areas in your own life where there is pressure to compromise your faith in the LORD and obedience to him. What are they? How can you trust in the LORD and not cave to compromise?
Prayer:
LORD,
I praise you for ruling over the nations and caring for me. From the time of Daniel to now, you sit sovereign over all kings and kingdoms. From then to now, you also care for your people…
Thank you for giving me gifts, favor, and opportunity in order to extend your Kingdom and proclaim your Gospel.
I pray for integrity and strength, like Daniel’s, to not defile myself with the priorities and pleasures of this world but find satisfaction in you and your way.
I praise you for Jesus– my true King and Savior. Thank you for giving me life through Him.
Amen.