SUMMARY:
Our study of Daniel has continued through only six
chapters. While we recognize this is but half the book, it is the half from
which we gather the character of
Daniel, Hannaniah, Meshiel and Azariah. Perhaps the choice of FRUITFULNESS better suits our current
study of this material. The nine elements of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians
5:22 – 26) have unquestionable notice within the actions of these faithful ones
of God. We admire them and we need to learn from them! (
Through this study, we have
purposely emphasized the need to “fine tune” each element of this fruitfulness
within our souls. We accept we cannot be precisely as Daniel, Hannaniah,
Meshiel, or Azariah, any more than we can be like anyone else, it must be our
GOAL to formulate this character in our souls, that we would be MORE PLEASING
TO GOD in all we say and do! FAITHFULNESS is not an “occasional” trait, but one
that is constant in the lives of God’s children!
Some suggested this study was
particularly challenging when asked to place ourselves in the setting and then
consider the elements of Galatians 5:22 – 26. Such a declaration is both
complimentary and filled with critique. I rejoice in the challenge posed.
Perhaps it prompted a more serious approach to your study and enhanced your
self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). Nonetheless, I admit to a rather “far
reach” in the attempt of tying the actions of Daniel 1 – 6 to Galatians 5:22 -2
6. Frankly, the design was an attempt to accommodate two requests for study: one
of Daniel and the other of Galatians 5:22 – 26. One thing I have learned,
however: in every aspect of our study, the application REQUIRES Galatians 5:22
– 26 in assuring profitability!
It is thus my prayer we have gained
from this study. It is my prayer we never face a king whose heart is so
hardened he captures us for his own selfish gain. Yet, if such is our lot, may
God grant us the strength and fortitude to eat pulse and drink water while
firmly nourished from God’s consistent Word! I pray we never face a fiery
furnace. But if we do, I pray we know we cannot and will not succumb to the
demands of a self-made god. I pray as well we have the strength and
faithfulness of the fruit of the Spirit to change a hardened heart to one of
acceptance of God’s power and majesty! I pray we never have to endure a king
whose greed is so great he forgets the lessons of times past. But if our lot
must be so, may God give us the strength and wisdom to prove he is weighed in
God’s measure and found lacking! May God grant us strength to so examine
ourselves! I pray we never face a den of lion because of our proven
faithfulness in exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit. But if we do, may we
determine the power of our God is greater than all the powers of earth
combined. Let us have the humility to allow His served justice toward those who
wrong us. May we all be humbled and strengthened to simply DARE TO BE LIKE
DANIEL!