Graceways September 7 Devotional

DANIEL 1:18-21 | ¹⁸ At the end of the time that the king had set for them to be brought in, the palace master brought them into the presence of Nebuchadnezzar, ¹⁹ and the king spoke with them. Among them all, no one was found to compare with Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah; therefore they were stationed in the king’s court. ²⁰ In every matter of wisdom and understanding concerning which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. ²¹ And Daniel continued there until the first year of King Cyrus.

Now, we begin to see the broader context of God’s plan for Daniel in Babylon. God will humble the Babylonians despite their military victory over Israel. Without killing anyone, He will demonstrate the superior wisdom and interpretive ability of Daniel to solve the king’s psychological and strategic conundrums. When the king is tricked into trying to force Daniel to abandon his faith, God will miraculously preserve him in the lion’s den and the fire. God’s power and presence will become real and convicting as the Babylonians see His capacity to save and preserve. In the face of martyrdom, Daniel and his friends choose faith and resist coercion. Their witness and God’s miracles are compelling.

Jesus calls you and appoints you to be the salt of the earth and light of the cosmos! Praise Him for His faith in your witness.

Gracious God,

Send me as an ambassador wherever you want. Help me be wise and courageous in representing You.

Amen.