Every choice we make can have a profound impact not just on our lives, but also the lives of others. The Bible is full of wisdom and lessons that we can learn from real people and the life choices they made, one of whom is Daniel. Daniel was a young Jewish man who, along with others, was exiled from Judah into Babylon by King Nebuchadnezzar. For seventy years Daniel faithfully served under the rule of five different kings, consistently and exceptionally. Knowing that he was serving God no matter who his earthly boss was, Daniel chose early on to live a life of no compromise. It was this choice that has a profound impact on his life and the lives of those around him. What can we learn from Daniel’s life choice of no compromise?

Distinction: We Excel to Honor God

Daniel excelled as one of three commissioners overseeing 120 satraps, so much so that King Darius planned to appoint him over the entire kingdom (Daniel 6:1-3). Despite the efforts of his enemies to find fault, Daniel’s work ethic was distinguished and excellent, and he was described to possess an extraordinary spirit. Daniel’s integrity and discipline were undeniable. We too can apply Daniel’s distinction to our own lives by practicing honesty, punctuality, stewardship, and accountability at work and in our personal lives. Most importantly, to experience the same distinction that Daniel did, we must focus on pleasing God rather than people.

Opposition: We Persevere to Obey God

Daniel’s uncompromising faith led others to plot against him (Daniel 6:6-9). Unbothered, Daniel continued to worship, pray, and give thanks to God. When he was discovered praying in violation of the king’s order, it was decreed that Daniel would be thrown into the lion’s den. When we are faced with opposition, will we persevere and continue to obey God? Despite the threat of death, Daniel continued to obey God, knowing that God would hear his prayers. Oswald Chamber said, “Prayer does not fit us for the great works; prayer is the greater work.” Prayer is a privilege, but prayer is also our lifeline.

Vindication: We Entrust Ourselves to God

After a sleepless night, King Darius hurried to the lion’s den to check on Daniel, where he heard that an angel had been sent by God to protect him (Daniel 6:18-20). Because of Daniel’s testimony, even a pagan king like Darius recognized God as the one true and living God. Our choices and the testimony that our lives tell can impact others for eternity. Just as Daniel’s choice to live without compromise caused unbelievers to recognize God’s authority and power, our choices to live without compromise today can lead others to Jesus. Make your choice today by making God the boss of your life.

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LAST WEEK’S MEMORY VERSE

Then this Daniel began distinguishing himself among the commissioners and satraps because he possessed an extraordinary spirit, and the king planned to appoint him over the entire kingdom. (Daniel 6:3)