| “Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.” – Daniel 6:3 |
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| Dare to Distinguish yourself like Daniel The life of Daniel is definitely one to learn from and yes, emulate. As a teenager, he purposed in his heart to live according to the commands of God. We all should have Daniel 1:8 memorized and be applying the principle of establishing convictions. (In case you need a refresher, Daniel 1:8 says, “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”) Not only was he guided by principles, but as challenges came, he prayed, praying fervently for God to give discernment and understanding. He handled himself with great calmness in the face of crisis. Another of my favorite verses about Daniel is Daniel 2:14. With the executioner coming to kill him and the wise men of Babylon we read, “Daniel spoke to him with wisdom and tact.” One version says he spoke with “prudence and tact.” In other words, he kept his head so he could keep his head! When we get to chapter 6 Daniel faces the challenge of a new administration. Daniel 6 tells of the reign of Darius and how his administration would work. As they looked for candidates to serve in the new administration Daniel “distinguished” himself above others BECAUSE there was an “EXCELLENT SPIRIT” within him. This excellent spirit can be translated “that he had exceptional qualities” (NIV) or that he had an “extraordinary spirit.” (NASB) The idea is that he did things REALLY WELL. His work was thorough and it was covered with integrity. The king and others could see decisions were being made with great discernment. Daniel brought a lot to the room when he walked in and the king realized he needed a man like Daniel in a high position. As we think about this description of Daniel I would like to point you to a verse in Proverbs. It is Proverbs 22:29. It says, “Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.” Does your work STAND OUT? Do you strive for EXCELLENCE? I trust you are not like the lazy in whom you find their hardest work is coming up with excuses. I believe we, as believers, should be known for excellence, not excuses. Verse to DATE the Word on June 3 (6/3) is Daniel 6:3. It says, “Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.” How are you as a believer distinguishing yourself? Is it with EXCELLENCE? Or is it with excuses? Be known for excellence, not excuses. Dare to be a DANIEL! Continue Strong with an excellent spirit, And remember to DATE the Word |