We all know the story about Daniel. He took a stand against the most powerful earthly ruler in his day. Turn to Daniel 1:8 which says, “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”
Inevitably, there comes a time in every believers life when he or she must take a stand against some worldly practice. Daniel gave us a striking example of how to do this not only courageously, but graciously, and effectively.
One of the most important things we see is that Daniel was not belligerent or disrespectful when he made his stand. He always remained courteous and reasonable. Far too often, believers make a spectacle of themselves when trying to stand up for what is right. Getting into arguments will not solve anything. Yahweh honored Daniel’s faithfulness and He will do the same for us. We must always be ready to “give an answer.” But let’s do it with meekness and not arrogance.
We will not win any converts if we show ourselves in a negative light. I witnessed more than one incident where well-meaning believers lost family members and friends because of the bad way they conducted themselves all for the “glory of Messiah.” Showing ourselves as righteous examples can go a long way toward leading an interested individual into the faith. It is Yahweh, of course, that does the calling, but He uses you and me to witness to others. It is an incredible responsibility that believers are given.
Those of us who have been in the faith for many years have learned that it is pointless to demand that others do what we do if they are not being called. However, we have also seen others change for the better when they see our good example! May we all learn something from Daniel.