“So this Daniel enjoyed success in the reign of Darius [even] in the reign of Cyrus the Persian.” - Daniel 6:28
I have always loved the prophet, Daniel. He stole my heart from the very first chapter of his book on my very first reading of it nearly 30 years ago.
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. Now God had brought Daniel into the favor and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs.—Daniel 1:8 (emphasis mine)
From that moment on I wanted to be a woman who purposed in her heart to obey God. Difficult decisions were no longer fraught with angst because my heart had already been consulted. The decision to obey God had already been made.
This was the secret (IMHO) to Daniel’s success. Daniel went from a young captive to:
Under Nebuchadnezzar’s rule…
—ruler over the province of Babylon
—chief prefect over all wise men
Under Nebuchadnezzar’s son, Belshazzar’s rule…
Daniel was promoted to third ruler in his kingdom
Under King Darius’ rule…
Prime-minister over the entire Medo-Persian Empire
There is no doubt that in the eyes of the world Daniel was successful. But here is the thing that I really love about Daniel. Worldly success was NEVER his goal. His goal was always to be a faithful, obedient servant of His God.
Beloved…there is so much more to Daniel’s story and how God used his obedience not only in his own lifetime but also many years into the future, but for me the lesson that I glean is always the same.
Faithfulness to God = True Success
Father…by Your gracious Spirit help me to remain faithful like Daniel. Use all that comes my way in this life…every circumstance and every trial…for Your glory and for my good. May Your fruit be found in me.
This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go."—Joshua 1:8-9
Let a man so consider us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards that one be found faithful.—1 Corinthians 4:1-2
