Don’t Compromise Your Relationship with God

In chapter 1 verses 1-21 depict the story of Daniel and his three friends being exiled to Babylon under the reign of Nebuchadnezzar to be trained as servants (eunuchs) to the king. Daniel was around 16-17 years old at the time of his exile which made him a perfect candidate to become a servant to the king. Along with the age requirement there were several other requirements that one had to meet. Verse 4 outlines these requirements: 1. without blemish; 2. but good-looking; 3. Gifted in all wisdom; 4. Possessing knowledge and quick to understand; 5. Who had ability to serve in the king’s palace; 6. And whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans.

Although Daniel met the physical and other requirements that the king had put forth, Daniel served a much greater true King (God). In verse 8 Daniel told himself that he would not defile himself with the king’s food nor drink his wine. He would not compromise his position or relationship he had with God. Daniel valued his relationship with God much more than he valued his own life. This as you could image caused great consternation with Ashpenaz as to refuse the kings orders to eat the king’s delicacies.

If the king was aware of Daniel’s position, it would most certainly lead to punishment that could include death. Daniel is the epitome of a faithful servant to God. He reverenced his relationship with God and showed all to see how important his relationship is. The benefits to live for God outweigh the benefits of following the king.

We all have choices in life. The older you get the more choices you create or are created for you. These choices are not always leaning in a positive direction. There are so many times that we are put in circumstances that drive us to compromise our relationship with God by deciding to follow the world or the things in the world. It is our love for, and strong relationship with God that keeps us focused on what is true and righteous. Because we live in this world, we are constantly subjected to the rules set forth by non-believers. We are exposed to a style of living that is diametrically opposed to our beliefs in Jesus and our desire to live for Christ. The constant attacks are relentless and it is only through our relationship with God that we can get through the difficult time, trials and tribulations.

Daniel is a great example and a good measuring stick for us to gage where we sit with our relationship with God. How often do you compromise the things that go against God’s teachings? How often do we try to convince ourselves that “one time” is okay? If we find ourselves pushing against the kingdom of heaven or as the bible teaches us with Paul in (Acts 26:14) “kicking against the goad” more than we are pushing against the world, then we are certainly losing the battle. Daniel was faced with a life changing decision. That decision was to conform to what the king wanted versus the relationship that he has with God. We know through God’s word the choice that Daniel made and the outcome from his choice.

As a Christian we need to be cognizant of the position we hold and who we represent. Choosing to follow God has greater rewards in form of the blessings we will receive from Him. It also helps guide us to the heavenly place to be with Him for eternity. Time is short and according to scripture and the signs of the times, it is getting shorter. We no longer have the luxury to wait or to continue to compromise. God wants our hearts, minds, soul and our strength, in short He wants a committed servant that will follow Him for the rest of our days. If we keep denying Him that, then scripture tells us (Matthew 10:33) that He will deny us before His Father.

My prayer is that we would never compromise our relationship we have with Jesus. I pray that we follow Him and live more righteously every day. I pray that when we are weak, that He is strong and we will live with Him for eternity the rest of our days. In Jesus Mighty Name I pray this Amen! Amen!