Daniel 1:1-21
Verse 17 To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds.
We are jumping ahead again, this time to the time of exile. Because of the people of God not listening and obeying Him, He kept His promise and sent them into exile. For the people being removed from their homeland it was a heartbreaking time. Some knew they would never see the cherished city of Jerusalem again. There would have been tears and great sadness. But there had been special instructions given about taking some young man who fit certain criteria.
The requirements for these young men were about their social status, looks and brains. Their being of royal or noble birth would have given them less of a learning curve when it came to learning to live among the palace officials in Babylon. They also had to be handsome and without any defect. While this seems shallow, God had a purpose in giving each of these young men the looks He had given. He had chosen these men for this time and place.
There was more. These men needed to be smart and able to learn quickly so they could learn the language and literature of Babylon. They didn’t know if or when they would be able to return to their homeland and so they needed be prepared to stay in Babylon for the rest of their lives. That is what brought them to this place of having to make choices about food.
We don’t know why they didn’t feel like they should eat the food of the king. Maybe it had something to do with the food being not in line with the food laws of the Israelites as given to Moses in the wilderness. It may have been pork or other such things they were forbidden to eat. Or maybe they had other reasons. The important thing is that they chose not to eat it and God rewarded them with more knowledge, some of which was supernatural.
Even through captivity God was showing His wisdom and attention to detail. He had the perfect men to place in the palace to make Himself known to the people and kings of that far away country. Daniel was there for the long-haul, as God was placing Daniel there for 66 years. Almost 7 decades to serve God in the face of captivity.
Making It Personal
When have you found yourself in a place you didn’t want to be in life, only to find out later God had you in the perfect place for the perfect time? Did you serve Him well? Where may He be wanting to use you today?
Making It Personal Kids
Have you ever learned a hard lesson and then was able to use the lesson you learned to help others? Do you like to help others? How can you help someone today?
Closing Prayer
Father, thank You for this reminder to trust You in the hard times in life. Give us the lessons we need so we can serve others in Your name. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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