No Need for Compromise
You and I can often find ourselves in much the same situation as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah.
To these four young men God gave knowledge and understanding of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. At the end of the time set by the king to bring them in, the chief official presented them to Nebuchadnezzar. The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so they entered the king's service. In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom. (Daniel 1:17-20)
Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah were not in the most desirable of situations. True, they were living in luxury and a part of the king's household. Surely they were dressed in the most expensive finery of the day, sleeping in the most comfortable beds, given the best food (vegetables, at their own request, but the best) and living an enviable existence by all worldly standards. But they were captives in this land, taken away from their homes and families and held against their will by King Nebuchadnezzar. So they resolved to follow God's law. They resolved not to defile themselves in any way. They resolved to stand firm in their commitments. At the same time, they studied and learned everything they could about this strange culture within which they found themselves, resolved to do a good job, and yet maintained their integrity and commitment to God's laws.
You and I can often find ourselves in much the same situation as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah. Moves due to work or other situations that arise can cause us to relocate into strange cities and neighborhoods. Volunteer work for missions can put us smack dab in the middle of strange cultures. But even without a move, we must still live and work within our own culture – and no matter where in the world you live, it’s most likely a culture which grows further and further from God every day. So how do we survive? Do we withdraw into a shell and avoid contact with anyone? Or do we work and live as an influential part of the culture within which we find ourselves?
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Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah not only survived culture shock; they thrived on it. They learned about the culture of Babylon - as much as they possibly could learn. They served the people and the king to the best of their ability. They prayed for God's help and maintained the integrity of their beliefs. And God blessed them by helping them to achieve excellence in their work and making them a witness for the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Remember, there are no circumstances that justify compromising your beliefs. Follow the example of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah, no matter in what culture or job you find yourself. God will use your efforts and your commitment to Him as a witness and a blessing to others.
From Dogwood Ministries, Inc.
J-R-and-Bonnie@dogwoodministries.org
Used with Permission
