Study 28
by Charles Tan
Text: Daniel 6
Dear Brethren,
A LONG-LASTING TESTIMONY
When the new King ascended the throne, he appointed Daniel as one of three senior governors over his kingdom. Daniel served as a top administrator in the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar. He was recognized by Belshazzar and honoured by him, albeit at a very late hour. The new Medo-Persian king duly recognized his worth. What a terrific testimony Daniel enjoyed! He had a consistent and long-lasting testimony. He truly walked worthy of his calling, as a servant of the Lord.
“DANIEL DISTINGUISHED HIMSELF…” Daniel 6:3
When Daniel was but a young lad, he distinguished himself in the training college he and his friends were put into. At the end of his training period, he was said to be “ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers who were in all the realm” (Daniel 1:20).
Many years later, Daniel continued to distinguish himself. What an example we have in Daniel! How we must be challenged to distinguish ourselves for the glory of the Lord.
“BECAUSE AN EXCELLENT SPIRIT WAS IN HIM” Daniel 6:3
What made Daniel stand out all the time? It wasn’t the circumstances and opportunities that made him appear outstanding. The Scriptures tell us plainly that Daniel distinguished himself “because an excellent spirit was in him”.
How is one person distinguished from another? Surely it is because of the kind of spirit that we possess and develop. Yes, it is possible to develop ourselves so that we too can have an excellent spirit!
WHEN ENEMIES ATTACK
Soon jealous enemies attacked Daniel, as they attacked his friends years ago. They sought to find fault in his life. They sought to find fault with his work. Here is an interesting observation.
“They could find no charge or fault,
because he was faithful;
nor was there any error or fault
found in him.”
Daniel 6:4
BE CHALLENGED TO CULTIVATE THE SPIRIT OF FAITHFULNESS
The excellent spirit that was found in Daniel was not so much “brilliance” as the spirit of faithfulness. Daniel sought to be faithful in every piece of work given to him. He sought to be faithful in every aspect of his life. Cultivate faithfulness and you will see how you too can have an excellent spirit!