Introduction
God loves His children and want us to be different from children of the world. Thus, he called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, for us to show forth His praises (1 pet 2:9). Daring to be different means to have courage to do something radically different. It also means a challenge to do something brave or risky. God is proud of daring and faithful Christians. He wants us to be brave enough to do difficult things and succeed in them, as He commanded Joshua (Josh 1:6-9).
POSITIVELY DARING TO BE DIFFERENT
Daniel purposed in his heart (Dan 1:8), not to defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies. The Three (3) Hebrew Boys (Dan 3; 17r 18), Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah also determined not to bow to any graven image. Determination means you understand that you are under authority, and are ready to give allegiance to that authority. It is that authority that propels you to dare. Daniel and the three boys were operating under God’s authority, and could dare the king’s order. Let us consider some basic facts about them:
The Babylonians changed Daniel’s name to Belteshazzar but could not change his heart away from God.
- Daniel was not hypocritical
- he was not unpretentious
- He was not moved by the consequences of his defiance.
- Faith in God in them was not frozen
- His oppressors wanted to become stumbling blocks to his prayer life but he resisted vehemently by praying three times daily. Remained faithful to the end
- The three boys determined to go into the king’s fire rather than hell fire which is meant for those who deny God.
- Their names were changed to Shadrach. Meshach and Abednego but their hearts could not be changed
- Respectful to the king but resolute
- Refused to compromise their faith
- Trusted in God to the end
- Joseph (and Potiphar’s wife) – Gen 39:7-9
- He was rejected by his brothers
- Had inward, purity in mind, was not defiled
- The Devil went ahead to wait for him in Egypt to ensure he fell, yet he remained standing Recognized that doing the wrong, thing is committing sin against God
- Discerned that sleeping will Potiphar’s wife would abort his dream and destiny
- He feared to sin against God
Often, we find ourselves in situations where telling lies is very convenient. Why not Dare to be different? Let your life reflect your transformation. Dare to tell the truth always. (Rev 21:8)
The central truth about these people is that they reverenced God, therefore, he delivered them from the expectations of their enemies and honored them. As you purpose in your heart daily to do that which is pleasing to God and not to fallow a multitude to do evil, the Lord who rewards good deeds will certainly reward you in Jesus’ name (Exo. 23:2). Amen.
