Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell upon his face and paid homage to Daniel, and commanded that an offering and incense be offered up to him. The king answered and said to Daniel, “Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings, and a revealer of mysteries, for you have been able to reveal this mystery.” Then the king gave Daniel high honors and many great gifts, and made him ruler over the whole province of Babylon and chief prefect over all the wise men of Babylon. Daniel made a request of the king, and he appointed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego over the affairs of the province of Babylon. But Daniel remained at the king's court. (Daniel 2:46-49 ESV)
Daniel had just wowed the King by interpreting his dream. He and his three friends had impressed the palace with their wisdom. They were able to "find a job" anywhere in the realm they wanted. Daniel chose to stay in the king's court. The roller coaster ride of love/hate between these men and the pagan culture in which they found themselves was far from over. Daniel was committed to staying there. He knew God could and would use him as a blessing and a rebuke to the empire, as well as making a difference in how his own people were treated in exile. He chose to stay, despite the constant attacks of those who envied him. It would have been far easier to get out of the limelight and gravitate to the fringe of the empire, but he stayed. Sometimes God calls on us to stay, to stand, and see what more He will do where we are.
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