(Read Daniel 1)

In this first chapter of Daniel, we find him as a young teen in a strange land. King Nebuchadnezzar commanded his officer to choose the most promising young men from the Israelite captives. Daniel and his friends were strong, healthy, and intelligent - perfect candidates for the king's choice.

However, when offered the king's rich food, they refused. They insisted on obeying God by eating the healthy foods that He had instructed them to eat in the law given to the people of Israel. The officer reluctantly agreed, giving them ten days to prove the value of this diet.

When the time was up, they were healthier and stronger than the men who had eaten the royal food. God also gave the four young men knowledge, skill, and wisdom. At the end of three years, they were presented to the king, and he was impressed with them above all of the others. They had great wisdom and knew ten times more than any of the king's magicians or fortunetellers.

Sometimes the pressure is great to follow worldly values and ungodly people. Yet God calls us to stand strong in our convictions and obey His commands. When we do, we will ultimately realize that He does know what is best, and we will reap a good harvest if we follow Him. Like the king and his officer, people will see the reflection of God's favor in our lives. We, too, are blessed when we choose to keep God first. Obedience equals blessing!

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Credits: Inez Haythorn