Study From the Book of Daniel,1

                                    Study From the Book of Daniel, 1

Today is the first part of this series where we study chapter one and as usual, we pick up two biblical principles and their lessons that are useful in biblical counselling.

The book of Daniel emphasizes the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations.  Jerusalem did not fall merely because Nebuchadnezzar was strong, but because God had judged the people of Judah for their disobedience.

Daniel with his friends refused to eat the king’s delicacies because two problems with the king’s menu:

1. It no doubts included food forbidden by the law of Moses.
2. The meat had properly been dedicated to idols.

The chief of eunuchs refused at first and told them the decision would endanger to his life. But Daniel suggested to test them for 10 days on vegetable food. At the end of the testing period, Daniel and friends were healthier than the young men who ate of the king’s delicacies. Not only that but at the end of three years learning, God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature.

Daniel served as counsellor to the king from the completion of his training under Nebuchadnezzar (about 603 B.C,) until the first year of King Cyrus (539 B.C.). Thus, Daniel held his position until the very end of the Babylonian Empire.  

Structure:

Verses 1-21: Daniel and his friends obey God.

Principle 1: “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself----"

Lesson 1: Godly obedience begins with an absolute commitment to honouring God above all else. When we “purpose in our hearts” to put God first, then the particular temptation or challenge doesn’t matter.  

Principle 2: “----God gave them knowledge and skill in all literature and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all vision and dreams.”

Lesson 2: God has the power and wisdom and resolve to equip us fully for whatever task or position He wants us to tackle. We will never fall in a God-given task because God failed to give us what we need (20/08/2023).