Daniel 1

“But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food …” (1:8).  The story tells us that Daniel and his friends thrived; “their appearance seemed better … than all the youths” (v15).  But Daniel didn’t know what would happen when he “made up his mind” to observe Jewish ways in a pagan household.  He could have forfeited opportunities, and perhaps faced punishment.  His decision came from deep principles, not from weighing up consequences.

Daniel lived for God, regardless of the cost.  Neither the admiration nor the mockery of the world can compare to hearing “Well done” from our King.