Serve God With Constancy

Daniel set a fine example for all modern day servants of God.  His conduct was always above reproach.  In his secular work Daniel “was trustworthy and no negligence or corrupt thing at all was found in him” Daniel 6:4.  In a similar way a Christian should be industrious with respect to his employment.  This does not mean being a business cut throat who eagerly pursues material wealth or who steps on others to climb the corporate ladder (1 Tim 6:10).  The scriptures require that a Christian fulfil his secular obligations honestly and in a whole-  ?    way, “as to God”. Colossians 3:22-23, Titus 2:7-8, Heb.13:18).

In his worship, Daniel was uncompromising.  His custom of praying was a matter of public knowledge.  Furthermore, the high official and satraps well knew that Daniel took his worship seriously.  Indeed they were convinced that he would hold to his routine even if a law forbade it.  What a fine example for present-day Christians!  They too have a reputation for putting God’s worship in first place. (Matt 6:33).

This should be readily evident to onlookers, for Jesus commanded his followers: “ Let your light shine before men, that they may see your fine works and give glory to our Father who is in the heavens.”  Matt 5:6.

Some might say that Daniel could have avoided persecution by praying to God in secret for the 30 day period.  After all, no particular posture or setting is required in order to be heard by God.  He can even discern the meditations of the heart (Psalm 19:14).  Nevertheless, Daniel viewed any change in his routine to be tantamount to compromise.  Why?

Since Daniel’s custom of praying was well known, what message would have been conveyed if he suddenly discontinued it?  Observers might well have concluded that Daniel was fearful of man and that the King’s decree superseded God’s law. (Psalm 118:6)  But Daniel showed by his actions that Jehovah received his exclusive devotion (Deut. 6:14-15, Isaiah 42:8) .  Of course in doing this Daniel did not disrespectfully flout the King’s law.  Yet neither did he cower by compromising. Daniel simply continued to pray in his roof chamber, as he had been regularly doing prior to the King’s edict.

Servants of God today can learn from Daniel’s example.  They remain “in subjection to the superior authorities” obeying the laws of the land in which they live.

Bro. Jackson Nyakambire (Concession, Zimbabwe)