1. I AM WHO GOD SAYS I AM (DANIEL 1:1-17)

When Daniel and his friends were taken captive and brought to Babylon, they were given new names that reflected the Babylonian culture and gods. But Daniel refused to let go of his Jewish identity and requested to be allowed to eat only vegetables and water in accordance with the Jewish dietary laws. In the same way, we must recognize that our identity is not determined by the world’s standards, but by God’s standards.

We ought to bear in mind that our identity is not contingent on external circumstances or the opinions of others, but rather it is firmly anchored in our relationship with God.

2. I DO WHAT GOD SAYS I DO (DANIEL 6:3-10)

When Daniel was appointed as one of the administrators in the Persian Empire, he was faithful and trustworthy in his duties. Even when a new law was passed that prohibited anyone from praying to any god or man except the king,

Daniel continued to pray to God three times a day as was his custom. We too need to be obedient to God in the small things, even when it is difficult or goes against the norms of society. Our obedience in small things prepares us for the challenges that come our way (Luke 16:10).

3. I WILL TRUST IN GOD’S PLANS (DANIEL 6:16-23)

When Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den as punishment for disobeying the king’s decree, he trusted in God’s plan for him and was saved miraculously from the lions. We too need to trust in God’s plans for our lives, even when we face trials and difficulties. In Daniel 6:27, God used Daniel’s faithfulness to reveal Himself to King Darius and the people of his kingdom. In the same way, God can use our obedience and trust in Him to bring about His plans and purposes for our lives and those around us.

The life of Daniel teaches us that our identity should be anchored on God. We must hold onto who God says we are, be obedient to His commands, and trust in His plans for our lives. As we form habits of obedience, we will trust in the Lord, knowing full well that in the darkest of times, He is there with us. Let us remember that God has a plan for our lives, and it includes us. We are highly esteemed, greatly loved, and precious in the eyes of God. If we receive Jesus, we become children of God and bring this identity with us from hereon.