3 August | Youth
«Then the king interviewed them, and among them all none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah.» Daniel 1:19
The story takes place in Babylon. In the first chapter of the book of Daniel, we read about the arrival of the young Hebrews at Nebuchadnezzar’s palace. They were selected to study at the best university of the time. Among the young men were Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. The Hebrew boys are proof that people of principle can maintain their integrity during their college years.
Even far from their homeland, from their family, and in the midst of adversity, those young men did not lose their true identity. Young people who receive a spiritual foundation at home are prepared to remain faithful even when away from home.
Before the attractive table, those young men decided not to contaminate themselves with the king’s food and drink. They had strong convictions and did not allow themselves to be swayed by circumstances. It is always easier to make decisions on the side of what is right when you know your values.
In an environment steeped in paganism, far from the loving eyes of their parents, those young men remained faithful to God. Many want to justify infidelity because of peer pressure. The story of the young Hebrews in Babylon puts an end to these arguments.
Not even the threat to their life was enough to weaken their trust in God. When Nebuchadnezzar condemned them to death with the other wise men, they united in prayer. They begged God for mercy. The Lord answered them.
Standing up before the great image erected on the plain of Dura, they teach us that young people of principle do not bow down. The order was that, once the music was heard, everyone should kneel. They did not obey the order. Firmly, they told King Nebuchadnezzar that their decision to worship only the Lord was non-negotiable: “If the God we serve is willing, He Will deliver us, if He is not willing, we will remain faithful to Him” (see Dan. 3:16-18). They declared their trust in God. The Eternal One is the present God. Always by the side of His loved ones.
The fidelity of those young people was a great testimony. They went to the furnace, but Jesus followed them there. The emperor of the world at that time saw Christ because of their attitude. Principles are non-negotiable. Think about it.