Dare To Be A Daniel

Introduction:

Daniel obtained preeminence and Power

Started out preeminent among people of Israel (Dan. 1:3-6)

Given power over all Babylon (Dan. 1:17-20; 2:46-49)

Received similar power over Medo-Persian empire (Dan. 6:1-3, 28)

1. Daniel Was A Man Of Purpose

Daniel Purposed in His Heart (Dan. 1:8)

Young man - strange land - challenge

Purposed to uphold law - no matter what

Had a plan and he followed it

Because of that - given favor (vv. 9-16)

Every Christian: A Person of Purpose

No one respects: “wishy-washy” person

Purpose: 2 Cor. 5:9; Ecc. 12:13

Because of that – blessed (1 Pet. 3:12)

A decision make LONG before a crisis!

2. Daniel Was A Man Of Principle

Daniel Refused to Compromise Conviction

As a young man refused kings meat (1:8)

As an old man refused Belshazzar’s gift (5:13-17)

When threatened refused decree (6:10)

He didn’t change over time (6:10)

People Admire Those of Principle

Outwardly ridicule / inwardly want same

When someone needed - who is asked?

God commends (Psa. 15:1-5; Exo. 10:26)

A person of principle stands – will not move

3. Daniel Was A Man Of Purity

Opponents Could Not Find Fault

Faultless in business (6:1-5)

Explains his advancement to power

This is related to general life of purity

Christian is to be pure in conduct

Even in our youth (1 Tim 4:12; Titus 2:6-8)

As an employee (Titus 2:9-10)

Pure in thought as well as action (2 Cor. 10:5)

Purity is not a decision made in a moment of temptation – but LONG before (Gen. 39)

4. Daniel Was A Man Of Prayer

Daniel Was Strong in Prayer(6:10)

Opened window – Unashamed / not embarrassed

Knelt – Humility / submission

Three times - Continual dependence on God

Thanks - Never lost sight of blessings

Since early days – faithfulness / dedication

Every Christian Should Follow Daniel

Strongest of servants - practice of prayer

Pray often (Psa. 55:17; Col. 4:2)

Never lose confidence in prayer (Luke 18:1, 8)

Affects: purpose, principle, & purity

Conclusion:

Would you dare to be like Daniel?

Would you dare to be a man:

of purpose

of principle

of purity

of prayer