Bible Passage: “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2 ESV)
Scripture Reading: Daniel 1:8-21; Daniel 6:1-28
Men, can you imagine being taken from your home as a boy and forced to live in a foreign land as a servant?
It isn’t easy to fully understand the challenges Daniel faced. He likely had to resist many temptations in a culture that did not value holiness.
Additionally, the Babylonians made significant efforts to assimilate the men they captured from conquered nations.
Aware that his body is holy, Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the king’s unclean food (Daniel 1:8-21). God granted Daniel favor in the eyes of his Babylonian masters, which allowed him to demonstrate that his diet was healthier.
How did Daniel resist the temptation to conform to the customs of his new surroundings?
He chose to obey God and trusted that He would provide. By God’s grace, the chief of the eunuchs agreed to a ten-day test and fairly assessed Daniel’s appearance. God can even use unbelievers to fulfill His purposes.
Later, the king commanded that no one could pray to anyone except himself, setting himself up as a god (Daniel 6:1-28).
Once again, Daniel chose not to conform to his new environment and fully obeyed God by refusing the command. Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den as punishment, but God sent His angel to shut the mouths of the lions and protect him.
The power and favor given to Daniel are also available to us when we choose to resist conforming to the culture around us and do things God’s way.
Prayer: Father, we ask that Your Spirit grant us the courage to resist conforming to this world, where we sometimes feel like foreigners because of our faith in You. Strengthen us to stand firm. Amen.
Reflection: Are there any areas of your life where you are conforming to the world instead of Christ? What actions can you take today to draw closer to Jesus?
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