Made of Mettle: Living Courageously in Turbulent TimesSample

Courage to SET AN EXAMPLE

Human instinct has a tendency to make survival a priority when we face the most difficult situations in our lives. When we are surrounded by turbulence, all that we can think of is coming out of it unharmed. These survival situations can pop-up in any area of our lives: professional, relational, personal or health. For the most part, in such cases, we seldom think of being an example or setting a pattern for others to follow. It seems that during the most turbulent times it is the desire to survive that is more important than the effort to be an example. Daniel, however, thought differently. In the most difficult situations, he exemplified.

Daniel probably faced the most turbulent years of his life when he was taken captive to Babylon. His faith was challenged, his commitment was challenged, and even his identity was challenged. But through it all Daniel and his three friends set themselves above the desire to only survive. They mustered up the courage to set an example in spite of the difficult circumstances—be it in the blazing furnace or in the lion’s den. These men showed courage by setting an example in turbulent times.

Daniel chapter 4 chronicles the story of king Nebuchadnezzar and the dream that he had. It was God’s message about the events that would unfold in the king’s life. A compelling lesson that those who walk in pride God is able to humble (verse 37).

The king wanted someone to interpret and explain the significance of the dream. He called for Daniel knowing that he would be able to interpret the dream correctly.

King Nebuchadnezzar’s assessment about Daniel should be considered seriously. Daniel was a foreigner, a captive and a non-Babylonian yet the king trusted his judgment. Daniel lived his life in a way that set him apart from others. He was different from the other magicians, astrologers and diviners. The king looked up to him because Daniel set an example.

Let us take a look at the reputation that Daniel had in the eyes of Nebuchadnezzar. Thrice in this chapter the king affirms that the spirit of the gods rested in Daniel (verses 8, 9, 18). According to the king, no mystery was too difficult for Daniel because he enjoyed divine favour. The same could not be said about others. Daniel set an example in the way he depended on God and the king took notice of it. Whenever Daniel was faced with a difficult task, he depended on God and this contributed to his reputation. Daniel drew his wisdom, integrity, and dependence from God. This made the king trust him more than the other wise men. It took courage to set an example in a situation as his.

Another aspect of Daniel that made him stand out as an example was the sincerity with which he desired the wellbeing of others. It was probably this characteristic that made the king trust Daniel’s interpretation. When we read verse 27 we notice Daniel’s recommendation to the king. He requested the king to renounce his sins and wickedness by doing what is right and by being kind to the oppressed. The possible reason why this suggestion might not have angered the king was because of Daniel’s reputation of desiring the wellbeing of others.

Daniel 3 narrated the atrocity against his friends by the king. Daniel could have just taken pleasure in the thought that God was finally avenging that heinous act. He was, however, different. He had the reputation of setting an example. He desired the wellbeing of the king and recommended repentance. The episode ends with the king acknowledging the Most High God and revering His supremacy.

Never in the narrative did Daniel use his predicament as an excuse to be mediocre and callous. He exhibited exceptional courage to rise above his situation and be an example for others to look up to. He teaches us that when we have the courage set an example then it is possible for us to thrive even if we are surrounded by turbulent waters.