Read A Chapter A Day (RACAD)
Author: The book was written in the 6th century by Daniel. His name means “God is my judge” in Hebrew.
Background Setting:
Because of its geographical location, Israel was constantly the target of conquest. For many years, Judah was threatened by the Assyrians until conquered by the Babylonians under Nebuchadnezzar.
Promising youths of Royal lineage or prominent families were trained for service in Babylon to serve as advisers to the king regarding the custom and beliefs of the different people in his empire. While still a young man,Daniel became a Jewish exile in Babylon.
Purpose:The events recorded and prophesied in this book encouraged and comforted the Jews of Daniel’s day. Though they were defeated and scattered in exile, their God was still in control of history. The book of Daniel paints a portrait of how to serve God faithfully in the middle of a world full of hostilities and how to persevere in hope even when there is no immediate solutions to the problems that get us down. Daniel’s faithful service to the Lord in a land and culture not his own makes him unique among Biblical characters.
Theme:
Daniel’s major theme is the sovereignty of God
God ruled in the affairs of men, directing the course of history towards His own purpose. The book is generally divided into 2 sessions- the historical narrative and the visions of future events(we read some of these in the book of Revelation)
Thoughts on Daniel 1
Living By The Margins
The word of God in Rom 8:19 echoed in my heart as I pondered over this chapter. Truly, creation groans ernestly to see the sons of God being revealed. Daniel did not disappoint in this regard! The full weight of his name in Hebrew(God is my judge)must be a constant reminder that he is accountable to God, even in exile
As christians, we yearn to make a difference wherever we find ourselves, particularly in the secular world. We aspire for lofty heights that will make our light so shine in this dark world. In the same vain,we also desire that those in privileged positions around us, particularly in government circles will be used to advance the course of God. We long to see the Hushais that will defeat the counsels of the Ahitophels in governance. Unfortunately, for the most that have been so blessed, their testimony is far from the desired because they opt out of living by the margins….
Daniel chose to live by the margins. Right from the first exposure to the kings Court, with all the perks that come with it, he decided to be different. Not to indulge in the much sought after favours as he made quire an unusual request pertaining to the nourishment of his body. Many in Daniel’s postion today will see their selection (or appointments) as a lifetime opportunity and God’s favour without giving deep thought to how they will preserve their values in a strange environment, largely influenced by ungodly practices. Sadly, most quickly forget the boundaries set by law of God as they blend or settle into their new roles. This has been the dilemma of many Christians that have made their way into the corridors of power, past and present in Nigeria. They are quick to make concessions and compromises here and there so as not to look out of place, forgetting that they will have their day in court when ungodly policies will be made and they will be expected to take a stand. Unfortunately when this happens, they will be totally powerless to do anything because as they mingled and dined with the high and mighty, they had soiled their hands and cannot look evil in the eye without blinking. As christians, we must remember all things though lawful, are not expedient. This is what Living by the margins entails- Having a right to something, but deliberately chosing to jettison that right. Daring to be different even at the risk of losing that opportunity. This takes plenty of courage. May God strengthen us in this regard, may we be bold to stand our ground no matter the circumstances in Jesus name 🙏
