“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.” Daniel 1:8
Of all of Daniel’s great character traits described in this chapter, it is his humility that stands out so beautifully. It is said that Daniel was a handsome, brilliant, wise, and spiritual young man. He was selected from the best Israel had and he stood out high above his peers. He was chosen to serve the king. Now perhaps this honor escaped him, in as much as he was taken forcibly into this service. Daniel accepted his lot and began to study according to the will and direction of the king. But then a contention arose regarding the food and wine being served. It says that Daniel “made up his mind.” He was determined not to eat this food or drink this wine. He was prepared to stand his ground on this issue, and he stood on firm ground since he acted in order not to break the Lord’s dietary laws. God Himself was on Daniel’s side in this matter.
Now I, as a New Englander, should I have found myself in such a position, would likely have made a bold and adamant stand. I would probably come up with a slogan like “give me vegetables or give me death.” Perhaps I would organize a resistance movement and throw the king’s wine over the side of his ships in protest.
But Daniel humbly sought the commander and asked for permission. He did not demand. He did not refuse, he did not march straight into the king’s court and declare the food defiled. He asked the proper person, in the appropriate role for permission. When the commander seemed hesitant Daniel did not take that to be a signal that it was time for defiance, rather he continued his appeal and suggested a test. He respected the commander, and pursued his conviction with amazing humility, and faith in God.
O My soul, strive to be like Daniel, be stalwart in your convictions with regard to righteousness, but in God-honoring, Christ-exalting faith and humility.
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