“But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank…” (Dan. 1:8)
While in captivity, Daniel was faced with a decision; eat and drink the king’s food which had been likely offered to idols, or take a stand. He chose to take a stand. Yesterday, we saw the first key to taking a stand the right way: Daniel Knew WHEN to Take a Stand.
Today, we will look at the second key to taking a stand:
SECOND—Daniel knew HOW to take a stand.
Notice that it says, “therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.” He asked permission to not eat the food. This is an important component in taking a stand. He showed respect even while taking a stand.
~ He didn’t boycott the meat company.
~ He didn’t call the ACLU and sue the King.
~ He didn’t accuse them of violating his civil rights.
~ He didn’t play the “victim” card.
Taking a stand doesn’t mean being rude, arrogant or condescending; it doesn’t mean beating someone over the head with a Bible until they give in. Colossians 4:6 say, “Let your speech be alway with grace…” We are to use wisdom when we speak to others because the attitude with which we speak, can affect the other person. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
The better our attitude, the more effective our stand. The problem with some Christians is that they have the right message, but they have the wrong spirit. It’s kind of like my pastor used to say, “I like ice cream, but not in my face.” Some think the only way to present the message of Christ is by getting in a person’s face. That will not work, my friend.
If we are going to be effective in taking a stand for what is right, we need to know WHEN and HOW to take a stand.