Please read Daniel 1, in particular verses 8-21, prior to reading this snippet.

Daniel’s decisions demonstrate that he was faithful to God – no matter the consequences.  For example, I believe he risked his life when he refused to eat the king’s food, declaring it to be unholy (Dan 1:8).  Daniel knew that our God is all-powerful and ever-faithful and therefore would therefore protect him (Deut 32:4).

His decision to remain holy (set apart to God) meant he had to persuade those who ruled over him to defy the king.  This was not going to be easy as his commander (chief of the eunuchs) lived in fear of the cruel and violent ruler (Dan 1:10, 3:19,22-23).

Daniel’s wisdom is demonstrated by his understanding of the situation.  His wisdom enabled him to make a deal (Dan 1:11). Interestingly the deal was not with the chief of the eunuchs but rather with the steward assigned to oversee his growth and development.   Together, they agreed to a 10-day trial of a diet consisting of vegetables and water (Dan 1:12,14).  This timeframe evidently appealed to the steward as there does not seem to be any hesitation in accepting the deal – perhaps it was divine intervention or regarded by the steward as too short to pose a risk to his own wellbeing.

Daniel’s faithfulness to God and wisdom were rewarded in the form of a miracle: After 10 days they were healthier than those who had dieted on the king’s provision (Dan 1:15).

As Christians we are expected to be like Daniel: faithful and wise no matter the consequences.