Now, who will want to harm you if you are eager to do good?
Devotional Text
Daniel and his friends were men of integrity. Captured by the armies of Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, Daniel and three others from Judah’s royal family were ordered to live in the king’s palace for a three-year training period. Early on they resolved not to defile themselves with the royal food and wine offered by the king’s servants (Daniel 1:8). Everything about these young men testified of the good, wholesome will of God in their lives. Then came the time for their testing. Satan did everything he could to destroy them and their influence with the king. It seemed as though their doom was sealed until Daniel spoke to the captain of the guard with “wisdom and discretion” (2:14). His wise words won him and his friends a stay of execution. Later that night the Lord revealed the king’s disturbing dream to Daniel. As a result, instead of being harmed, Daniel and his friends were promoted! When you come under persecution, be certain you are pursuing God’s good will with all your heart. He will give you the favor you need with whoever is responsible. “The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right, and his ears are open to their prayers. But the Lord turns his face against those who do evil” (1 Peter 3:12).