In every matter of wisdom and understanding concerning which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters who were in all his realm.
–Daniel 1:20
Taking a test with a teacher who has authority over your grade is nerve-wracking enough.
Imagine having to answer to a king with authority over your life!
Daniel and his friends were only a few among thousands of exiles. Yet, when they had the chance to eat and drink from the conquering king’s kitchen, they literally bet their lives on a different diet.
In today’s verse, we find Daniel and his companions receiving off-the-chart grades in every subject after trading the king’s glorified fare for simplified food.
During college labs, a professor conducted an experiment that had the same results every time, he said. During the course of the experiment, one set of mice consumed junk food along with sugared drinks, whereas a separate set of mice ate only healthy food and pure water.
The healthy-eating set stopped eating when satisfied and maintained their weight, agility, and wit. The unhealthy-eating set seemed to be unaware of their limits and ate constantly until becoming obese and sluggish in movement and in thinking.
In 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 1 Corinthians 6:19, Paul reminds us that our bodies are God’s temples. Our food choices affect more than just our taste buds. They provide the nutrients that power our bodies.
Over time those choices, whether healthy or not, become a lifestyle.
Prayer
Heavenly King, Please help me to make choices that protect and promote the life You gave me. May I keep Your temple healthy, ready for You to use me in Your service. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
What am I habitually feeding God’s temple?