A SPINE AND A SPIRIT

Kenneth was a shy eight-year-old who loved to read. On one occasion his Sunday school teacher asked him to read part of the story of Daniel. In reading one of the verses, he accidentally read “an exceptional spine was within him” rather than “an excellent spirit was within him.” Both phrases, however, clearly describe who Daniel was.

Daniel was recognized for his wise insight, great wisdom, and prophetic visions. As he rose to power and prestige with the king, the other palace administrators became jealous of his privileged position. In their effort to get rid of Daniel, they were successful in persuading the king to outlaw prayer. The fact that prayer was “outlawed” did not matter to Daniel, and rather than give in to political pressure, he continued to pray boldly and publicly to the Lord, his God.

We all recall with pleasure the amazing miracle God performed by protecting him when he was thrown into a den of hungry lions. God was with him and guarded him against any harm. Daniel was faithful to God and God, in turn, was faithful to him and blessed him.

Daniel was able to “show his exceptional spine” every time he was challenged to surrender to the demands of a sinful world. It was the “excellent spirit” that came from his relationship with God that gave him his “exceptional spine.” He knew that His God was sovereign, and would guide him and give him His favor for being faithful.

Prayer: Father, give me a faith that will not flinch and a spine that will not shrink when tempted to compromise. Assure me of Your presence and power as I honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today:  Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom. Daniel 6:3