Daniel 1:8 But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself.
Looking back at the days of Daniel and his friends in Babylon as captives, you will see how God orchestrates everything by showing His favor and compassion to His own people (Daniel 1:9).
The Bible has given us the wisdom to figure out God's purpose in a remarkable way. For instance, the life of Daniel and his friends is crucial proof in reflecting God's sovereignty. Their suffering in the hands of their enemies was neither fail nor defeat, but resulted in a favorable outcome. On top of that, Daniel knew that disobedience to the king's order of not eating the king's choice food and wine to drink it would endanger their lives, including the overseer who takes care of their meals everyday. But Daniel rose confidently with a clear mind not to compromise.
The phrase "made up his mind" refers to Daniel's inclinations, resolutions, and determinations to see what lies ahead in God's providential control. Daniel never questioned God in his thought, nor his heart, nor his will. He pleads in front of the commanding officer with boldness and expectation (Daniel 1:12-13). He made up his mind not to defile.
Indeed, faith in God with boldness and expectation will produce God's results.
Daniel 1:15-16
At the end of ten days their appearance seemed better and they were fatter than all the youths who had been eating the king’s choice food. So the overseer continued to withhold their choice food and the wine they were to drink, and kept giving them vegetables.
Reflection Questions:
1. How do you feel defending something that you believe in (trust, power, peace, honesty, freedom)?
2. What is it that often stops you from standing (lack of faith, ignorance, fear, potential consequences)?
