Daily Devotional – ‘In His Footstep’
By Kingdom Support Initiatives (KSi)
January 9th 2023

Focus on God and Growth: Lessons from Daniel

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)

Bible Reading: Daniel 9:1-4
Some individuals chose to grow in God, while some did not pay close attention to what makes growth possible. Daniel was an example of an individual who chose growth, paid the price for growth and grew with impact in multiple administrations. We are introduced to Daniel’s first step in Daniel 1:8. He proposed not to eat the king’s food and wine because of the pagan tradition of sacrificing the meat first to the idols. He was bold enough to make a plan and follow through with the right action , even though it would cost him. He met with the official  in charge of them, and Daniel found favour. After the trial, Daniel’s result was tremendous; that was how he started showing forth the glory of God in His life.
Secondly, Daniel shows us some pattern of growth and pattern he submitted himself to the ministry of the word and prayer (Daniel 9:1-2). He prayed every day facing the temple of Jerusalem. Even when it would have cost him his life, he still prayed. He fasted. Daniel also learnt from books. He studied the prophets, the law and everything he needed to study to gain understanding. His uncommon understanding made him relevant across different dispensations.
Also, Daniel surrounded himself with like-minded friends who were God-centered and growth-focused. He made an exploit alongside his three Hebrew friends, Shadrach, Meshach; and Abednego. He shows us that the kind of company we keep can make or mar our growth pursuit. Dear friends, we cannot afford comfort and ease to make a mess of our lives. Growth will cost us something, and we must be diligent enough to commit ourselves to the ministry of the word and prayer. May God help us in Jesus‘ name.
Daily Confession: I obtain grace to be committed to the ministry of prayer and the word of God.
Intercessory prayer: Pray for leaders in government for God’s mercy upon their lives, for the heart of love for the people, and for wisdom to lead right.
Hymn: I’m pressing on the upward way,
New heights I’m gaining every day;
Still praying as I onward bound,
‘Lord, plant my feet on higher ground’