“But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine… God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel.” Daniel 1:8-9 (NIV) Everything flows from identity. When Daniel stood in Babylon’s royal court, what…
“The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.” Daniel 1:7 (NIV) Names carry deep and personal meaning in the Bible. When Babylon renamed Daniel and his…
“But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way.” Daniel 1:8 (NIV) How many times has this happened to you? Picture yourself…
“Oh that you would slay the wicked, O God! O men of blood, depart from me! They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain.” Psalm 139:19-20 (ESV) Cancel culture. Social media wars. Political divisions.…
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:13-14 (ESV) Designer clothes. Designer shoes. Famous brands. The finest quality. Things that exude elegance,…
“Where shall I go from your Spirit? Or where shall I flee from your presence? If I ascend to heaven, you are there! If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!” Psalm 139:7-8 (ESV) Loneliness has become a…
O Lord, you have searched me and known me! Psalm 139:1 (ESV) The concept of being fully known can be terrifying. In our human relationships, we often carefully manage what others see, crafting our image and selectively sharing parts of…
“Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” 2 Timothy 1:14 (NIV) Military commanders know that even the strongest fortress is only as effective as the power…
Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us. 2 Timothy 1:14 (NIV) When Native American elders entrust their sacred stories to the next storyteller, they’re passing on…
“Guard the good deposit that was entrusted to you—guard it with the help of the Holy Spirit who lives in us.” 2 Timothy 1:14 (NIV) In medieval times, the Crown Jewels of England were kept under a legendary “double guard”…