Working with Eternity in MindSample

In the first chapter of the book of Daniel, we learn of Babylon’s new ruler, King Nebuchadnezzar, who thought he had captured the true hearts and minds of the Israelites and came up with a scheme for training the next generation of Jewish leaders in Babylon. Along with the temple treasures, the king ordered his royal official to choose the best young men from among the Israelites to enter into his service. Among these young men were Daniel and three other men from Judah. 

What a strange world awaited Daniel and his friends in Babylon. All had their names changed once they entered the empire; they were now named after Babylonian gods. Their training for the king’s service would last three years, with their service being expected to last a lifetime, and with their recruitment came the worldly benefit of being allowed to eat from the king’s table. The official who commanded over them was likely a eunuch, a servant who was willing to be entirely committed to the service of the king. 

The way Daniel acts in this chapter shows us his quiet confidence and his desire to honour God. Daniel lived faithfully in service to God as a civil servant in a foreign land. So, too, do we see that the Lord honoured Daniel’s faithfulness. 

In Daniel 7:9-10 we find a vision that he records, which helps explain his view of God. Daniel sees the Lord on his throne being attended to by thousands upon thousands. Daniel worked with eternity in mind, realizing that the lordship of King Nebuchadnezzar was but only temporary, while the Ancient of Days is eternally on the throne.