17 As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. Daniel 1
Daniel and his friends found themselves in quite a dilemma: they had been put in the special training program of the emperor, and provided with what was though to be the best food for the brain. It also happened to be ceremonially unclean for the young Jewish men. As with the experiences of other characters in the books of the Writings (like Esther) Daniel stood on his convictions, with the real possibility of negative repercussions, and boldly, but respectfully, asked that he and his friends be asked to prove there was a better way, better food. After an initial test, they were granted permission. From their experience comes a phrase that we still use today. In what really matters, wisdom and knowledge, God made them "ten times better" than the others in the program. There was no comparision. As a result, these young men were placed in positions of authority and influence. That is where we should want to be - in a place where God can use us to make a difference. For that to happen, we need to be willing to courageously follow God's ways, let Him open doors, and trust His ways and times to show His power. Do you really believe God has a better way?
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