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A STRONG SENSE OF PURPOSE

Text: Daniel 1
9 July 2012

A STRONG SENSE OF PURPOSE

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefor he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Daniel 1:8

1. Displays the following

a) Character

b) Knowledge of the Mosaic dietary laws

c) Courage

d) Faith

2. Disclosure of intent

a) Openly

b) Directly (to the chief of the eunuchs)

GOD’S INVOLVEMENT

Now God had brought Daniel into the favour and goodwill of the chief of the eunuchs. Daniel 1:9

1. God’s invisible involvement

2. God’s hand acknowledged

3. God’s hand appreciated

4. Practical outcome

a) Daniel found favour with the chief of the eunuchs

b) Otherwise it would be impossible to make this request known without risking severe punishment

INITIAL RESPONSE OF THE EUNUCH

1. Fear of the king’s reaction for he had made these provisions himself Daniel 1:10

2. The chief of the eunuchs could lose his life if he was disobedient to the king

DANIEL AND HIS THREE FRIENDS

1. Suggestion of a trial of 10 days

2. Daniel and his 3 friends would go on a diet of vegetables and water

3. They would be examined (medically) after the 10 day trial Daniel 1:12-14

EXAMINATION OF DANIEL AND HIS FRIENDS

1. Physical features

a) Appeared better

b) And fatter (healthier) Daniel 1:15

2. Daniel and his friends

a) The King’s portion was removed

b) Daniel and his friends continued to observe the Dietary laws of Moses

ROYAL EXAMINATION

1. Interviewed by the King Daniel 1:18-19

2. Daniel and his friends found to be outstanding Daniel 1:19

3. They were 10 times better Daniel 1:19

4. They were appointed to serve in the Babylonian Public Service Daniel 1:20