Daniel’s Integrity Under Test
65
times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his
realm.”
The life of Daniel is an inspired illustration of what constitutes a
sanctified character. It presents a lesson for all, and especially for the
young. A strict compliance with the requirements of God is beneficial
to the health of body and mind. In order to reach the highest standard
of moral and intellectual attainments, it is necessary to seek wisdom
and strength from God, and to observe strict temperance in all the
habits of life. In the experience of Daniel and his companions we
have an instance of the triumph of principle over temptation to indulge
the appetite. It shows us that through religious principle young men
may triumph over the lusts of the flesh, and remain true to God’s
requirements, even though it cost them a great sacrifice.
What if Daniel and his companions had made a compromise with
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those heathen officers, and had yielded to the pressure of the occasion,
by eating and drinking as was customary with the Babylonians? That
single instance of departure from principle would have weakened
their sense of right and their abhorrence of wrong. Indulgence of
appetite would have involved the sacrifice of physical vigor, clearness
of intellect, and spiritual power. One wrong step would probably have
led to others, until, their connection with Heaven being severed, they
would have been swept away by temptation.
God has said, “Them that honor Me, I will honor.” While Daniel
clung to his God with unwavering trust, the spirit of prophetic power
came upon him. While he was instructed of man in the duties of court
life, he was taught of God to read the mysteries of future ages, and
to present to coming generations, through figures and similitudes, the
wonderful things that would come to pass in the last days.—
The Signs
of the Times, September 28, 1882
.
For Additional Reading
1882, Dec. 14 Holiday Gifts Signs of the Times 1883, July 17
Young Men as Missionary Workers Review & Herald 1884, Mar. 13
Science and Revelation Signs of the Times 1884, Mar. 20 Science and
the Bible in Education “ ” “ ” 1884, April 10 The Training of Children
“ ” “ ” 1884, April 17 Important Duties in Home Life “ ” “ ”
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