When Daniel was taken into Babylon, everything around him changed — a new language, new customs, and intense pressure to conform. But the goal wasn’t just exile. It was assimilation. The Babylonians didn’t want to destroy Daniel; they wanted to redefine him.
They gave him a new name, a new education, and even a new diet designed by the king. But in the middle of all that pressure, Daniel quietly drew a line. Scripture says, “But Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself with the king’s food.” No protests. No shouting. Just quiet conviction. Daniel knew who he was — and more importantly, he knew who his God was.
It would’ve been easier to just blend in, but Daniel stood firm. And because of that, God didn’t just sustain him — He distinguished him. Along with Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego (formerly Mishael, Hananiah and Azariah) we read: “As for these for youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.” (Daniel 1:17 ESV)
Three verses later, Scripture reveals the glorious aftermath: And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. (Daniel 1:20 ESV, author’s emphasis added)
Ten. Times. Better!
This isn’t just about food. It’s about faith, choosing God’s way when culture offers something easier, shinier, or more comfortable. Look around you. We live in a Babylon of our own — one that wants to reshape our values, redefine our identity, and trade holiness for acceptance. But Daniel shows us something powerful: You don’t have to rage to resist. You don’t have to blend in to belong. Instead, draw the line and let God do what only He can do. He will raise you up when you refuse to bow down to compromise. This is the early planting of a seed that prepares us for a spirit of excellence — a theme we’ll explore further in the next article.