Main Thought
Daniel was a captive in Babylon from the land of Judah who lived around 600 BC. The ancient Babylonian Empire shared surprising similarities with our society. Values changed rapidly as people served “gods” that suited their goals. The pressure to conform was strong. Yet Daniel eventually emerged both as a prophet and as one of Babylon’s most powerful officials. How did Daniel go from being an oppressed captive to a government official? In a word, faithfulness. To be faithful means to be trustworthy, consistent, and reliable. Daniel faithfully lived out the values of humility, obedience to God, integrity, and service to others. God eventually protected Daniel when his political opponents tried to eliminate him. God has the power to protect us, and even prosper us, as we remain faithful to Him.
Main Passages
3 Then this Daniel became distinguished above all the other high officials and satraps, because an excellent spirit was in him. And the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. 4 Then the high officials and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him.
- Daniel 6:3-4
10 When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.
- Daniel 6:10
9 And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
- Galatians 6:9
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Can you think of an example of faithful leadership? What impact did that have on you and/or the world?
Think about your own faithfulness in the areas of humility, obedience to God, integrity, and service to others. In which of these areas are you strongest? In which of these areas can you improve most?