Dare To Be A Daniel

“But Daniel purposed in his heart…”

  Those six words from the book of Daniel, chapter one, verse eight have lingered on my heart recently. The Bible tells us that Daniel was a teenager when he was taken captive by the Babylonian king, King Nebuchadnezzar. Although Daniel was relatively young when he was captured, (some say as young as 15 years old) Daniel refused to compromise, he refused to follow the crowd.

  Verse 8 says, “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” That must have taken great courage for Daniel to stand his ground on what he believed.

  Those words, “But Daniel purposed in his heart”, were the result of Daniel’s belief and reverence for God. From a young age, as well as throughout his entire life, Daniel was determined, resolved, resolute, and intentional regarding his walk with God. I so admire that.

  There’s a well-known Sunday school song titled, Dare to be a Daniel, with a chorus that goes:

Dare to be a Daniel,

Dare to stand alone;

Dare to have a purpose firm,

Dare to make it known!

  Like Daniel, I too, want to purpose in my heart. Purpose to live my life in a way that honors God. How about you? Will you join me in daring to be like Daniel?

Dina Pugh