Some advertisements claim their performance or services are ten times better than the products of competitors. Probably, an exaggeration. If a king in ancient times interviewed graduates from his academy to serve his empire and certifies someone to have ten times better knowledge and skills, it would be true. Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah were found ten times. (Daniel 1:19-20)
History: Daniel was born around 620 B.C. His parents named him Daniel which means: “God is my judge.” The Jerusalem siege by Babylon ended in 605 B.C. Daniel as a teenager was deported to Babylon along with other Hebrews by Nebuchadnezzar II. For the rest of his life, he lived as a migrant in a city where the culture, values, and religion were different. Daniel was about 80 years old when Persia conquered Babylon. Daniel’s ministry spanned the entire 70-year captivity. He lived in Babylon for 72 years.
Courtesy and defiance: Daniel and his friends were put in the academy of Babylon and given food from the King’s table. However, they felt that it was not right for them to eat as Jews. They requested the steward to test them for ten days with simple food, and they were found healthier and stronger than others who ate the king’s food. (Daniel 1:8-16)
Wisdom: God honored these young men by giving them knowledge, skill, and wisdom, while Daniel had an added understanding to interpret visions and dreams. (Daniel 1:17) In the final Viva Voce before Nebuchadnezzar, they got the highest credits (gold medalist) in the academy. That wisdom was acknowledged by the Queen Mother later that Daniel had: an excellent spirit, knowledge, and understanding to interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve problems (Daniel 5:11,12)
Life Lessons: Young Christians can study any subject in any institution immersed in worldliness. Yet excel, not tainted by that knowledge, and be a vibrant witness like Daniel. Be models of an excellent spirit, explain complex issues, and solve life problems. God provides wisdom to those who meditate on the Word of God, and they will be better than their competitors, teachers, and elders. (Psalms 119:98-100)
Do I impact the world or does the world impacts me?