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TRUTH that Daniel teaches |
ACTION that Daniel invites |
1. Steps toward knowing GOD
We must know that GOD will judge and that all the world will have to give account to the LORD for their conduct. |
5:22-24
Understand that GOD considers the arrogance of those who refuse to honor Him to be idolatry and blasphemy.
5:25-28
Remember that GOD measures, judges and rewards according to our conduct. |
2. Instructions for growing in piety
Living in piety implies showing faith in times of adversity as well as in times of prosperity and peace. Compromising our faith when we are threatened with persecution, doesn't allow GOD to take advantage of the most extraordinary opportunities to manifest his glory. |
1:8-16
Stand firm in your standards of righteousness, in spite of the pressures of sin. Believe that GOD will give you the means to escape. Trust that he will give you his favor and wisdom, offering different alternatives.
3:12
Refuse to compromise your Christian convictions, and refuse "to join the majority" to do evil or worship false gods.
6:4-9
Live in such a way that no fault can be imputed to you (except your commitment to faith).
6:10-16
Maintain a clear conscience living a life without stain. |
3. Steps toward a dynamic devotion
The individual devoted to GOD affirms that the LORD is sovereign and seeks to glorify his name. |
2:20-23
Remember and publicly praise GOD for his sovereignty over all circumstances, even in the midst of the most adverse. Believe that He is able to prevail in adversity.
9:4-19
Intercede before GOD, identifying with the sins of those for whom you pray. Base your petitions on the desire to glorify GOD. |
4. Keys for a wise life
Wisdom is necessary for developing individual potentials. The wise man knows spiritually when he should or shouldn't speak of things that he has seen and knows when he should renounce certain spiritual experiences. |
7:28
Be wise and understand that some of GOD's secrets and visions are not to be proclaimed, but kept in the heart. Understand that if GOD's secrets are carelessly revealed, he may not trust you with them again.
8:27
Understand that undergoing the experience of spiritual realities like visions can have psychological consequences. Do not seek them frivolously or lightly. |
5. Key lessons in faith
Daniel and his friends provide the model of a testimony of faith under the threat of torture and death. Although few believers have to pass a trial of this nature, those who receive this opportunity are offered the greatest of honors in the heavenly annals (see Heb. 11:33,34). |
2:14
Trust in GOD to put words of wisdom, filled with tact, on your lips. When you must speak to antagonists seek to speak with love and respect.
2:17,18
When you face dangerous circumstances, turn to the LORD to ask for help.
2:27,28
Giving testimony of the power of GOD will allow you to overcome difficulties that would be insurmountable otherwise. Believe that GOD still does miracles.
3:16-18
Believe that GOD is capable of delivering you from the most difficult circumstances. Be prepared to face death before denying your faith, or renouncing your confidence in GOD's power to free you. |
