Be A NeighborSample

DISTINGUISH YOURSELVES

Creating a community among your neighbors is a lost art. Just by approaching them and asking their name, you may very well have distinguished yourself from all the others. 

In Daniel 1, we read how Daniel’s profound wisdom from God set him apart in the times he was living in. When the church moves in accordance with God’s heart for people, God will entrust us with the sort of wisdom that will make us stand out among others.

What do you think your neighbors currently think of you? Daniel’s neighbors knew he was a man of God for 7 reasons. 

1. CHARACTER: Daniel refused to do wrong even when it would seem to benefit him. 

2. COMPETENCE: Daniel was not only skilled and gifted, but he worked hard, refusing to be lazy.

3. COMPASSION: Daniel was living in an enemy culture, yet he never lost his love for others.

4. COMMITMENT: Daniel remained loyal to God despite the intense pressure to compromise his beliefs. He was all in, all the time.

5. CHARISMA: Daniel wasn’t afraid to be himself. He turned in his “cool card” to instead use his “Called Card.”

6. COURAGE: In the midst of lions, Daniel didn’t flinch.

7. CONVICTIONS: Daniel ate differently than the rest of the king’s men. He didn’t consume all the same things as everyone around him.

ACTION STEP

On top of praying for your neighbors, write Daniel’s 7 Distinguishing Characteristics and place them somewhere you’ll see them. Perhaps a mirror or in your car. Ask God to show you how you can incorporate these 7 characteristics into your life, demonstrating God’s love and wisdom to those around you. Then, LOOK for opportunities—God may’ve been speaking to you this whole time!