There are things we do in life that does not require much of us or affect anyone else. However, the majority of time, our decisions to go against the crowd or the norms can be risky. The story of young Daniel in exile at Babylon is no ordinary story. A young man, away from his country, family and loved ones, has been forcefully chosen to work for the king. In preparation for his duty, he was asked to eat certain meals to make him fit for the job. He refused to eat the royal food. Daniel 1: 8 says, “But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way”. Refusing the king’s order could have been detrimental to Daniel. In those days, people could not refuse the King’s order without a penalty. Daniel did. Are you ready to take a stand even though it may cost you your life? As our theme says this weekend: Let’s Rise and Take a Stand! Are you ready to stand against the things that go against your belief systems, your values and your faith? Think about it. Be blessed.
Written Paula Chrysostome, PH.D, LMHC
All rights reserved
