Text:
Daniel 10: 11-19
Memory Verse:
“And he said to me ‘O Daniel, man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright for I have now been sent to you’” (Daniel 10:11a).
Daniel and his three friends, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, were among the young Hebrew children taken into exile in Babylon by Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon. The four of them were noted for their refusal to defile themselves with the required portion of the king’s delicacies and wine specially prepared for them during their training in the language and literature of the Chaldeans (Daniel 1: 3-16).
Twice, Daniel was addressed as a “man greatly beloved” by the angel who came to strengthen and enlighten him on future events regarding his people. Obviously, Daniel was greatly beloved because he was uncompromisingly dedicated to seeking, obeying and showing forth the praises of his God, whom he valued and placed above all else, even in a strange land. His life of self sacrifice, integrity and dedicated service to God stood him out and set him above his peers. This earned him a special place in God’s heart, placing him in the category of God’s favourites like Abraham, “God’s friend”
(2 Chronicles 20:7) and David, “the man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14). Daniel’s life and exploits are instructive for today’s believers, who often find it hard to stand their ground in the face of opposition or threat to their faith. Are you one of such believers? Realise that no believers ever stood up for their faith and not have God defend and honour them, like He did for Daniel.
Do you want to be greatly beloved by God? Emulate Daniel but, most of all, Jesus, God’s beloved Son, in whom He is well pleased.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, give me the grace to live an uncompromising life.
2. I will show forth the praises of my God, no matter the circumstance in which I find myself
