Bible Reading: Daniel 1
Special Verse: Daniel 1:8
But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
In my younger years, I used to panic when faced with challenges or attacked by the enemy. However, as I have gotten to understand spiritual principles more, I now see challenges as an opportunities for promotions. The story of Daniel clearly demonstrates this truth. Daniel chapter 1 ends with God giving him the ability to understand visions and dream. His three friends, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were also endowed with special knowledge and wisdom, all because they had chosen to stand for Godly values when faced with the challenge of refusing to eat food prepared contrary to Jewish laws. They politely declined the food. From this we see that when we pass a test, God promotes and endows us with what we need for the next level.
Subsequently, the next challenge for Daniel was King Nebuchadnezzar's mysterious dream. His life and that of his colleagues were at stake but the way out had been prepared by GOD. However, Daniel still had to step out in faith, speak up and trust God to come through for them. Fortunately, Daniel stepped out and got promoted again. This time, the greatest ruler of his time was bowing down to him. From these, we see that Daniel was not "lucky", rather he was determined to always do what is right and stand for God. That was what got him to the top. The same mindset will get all of us to our places of prominence and influence, not compromise.