BE DIFFERENT
Daniel 1:1-21 (8) – But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. (NIV)
We can be different by rising when others fall, walking where they crawl, and soaring above limits. For example, when Goliath boasted against Israel, fear gripped everyone except the little David, who stood out of the crowd (1 Samuel 17). No wonder, he became a king (2 Samuel 5:4), and ages after, Jesus Christ is still referred to as the ‘Son of David’ (Matthew 1:1).
Further, David’s biological son (Solomon) dared to be unique when he gave 1,000 burnt offerings in a day so that he became exceedingly great (2 Chronicles 1:1-12). Likewise, studying our Bible reading, Daniel chose to be exceptional by not corrupting himself with the king’s meat just as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow to the image when others did willingly (Daniel 3). Consequently, Daniel and the three were all promoted (Daniel 2:46-49).
Beloved, do you dare to be different in this era of moral decadence? When others are swept off by the wind of falsehood and corruption, can you remain steadfast in the Lord? (1 Corinthians 15:58). At work and neighbourhood! For what are you known? If you claim to have everything but can’t talk about Jesus; it’s a pity! Therefore, our generation presents daily opportunities to stand out for God; because ‘out of darkness, light shines brighter’— get ‘Born Again’ and be the light! (Matthew 5:13-16).
PRAYER
Hymn: Rock of Ages — Augustus Toplady (1776)
1. I receive the grace never to get discouraged but stand firm for Christ, come what may!
(MIDNIGHT PRAYER)
1. Henceforth! I soar in overflowing blessings and irrevocable favours.
2. I cancel every attempt to sift me out of God’s plan, this year!
3. Thank God, for a new dawn.
ARISE!