Daniel 10:11 And he said to me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak to you, and stand upright… Of those whose characters are recorded for our imitation, few, if any, will be found superior to Daniel. He is almost the only eminent saint in Scripture of whom no fault is recorded. Nor was his character for goodness merely of the negative kind. We find him once and again addressed as a man peculiarly dear to God. Nothing is more indispensable to the welfare of all creatures, than the favour of their Creater. Hence it becomes a matter of infinite importance for us to know how this privilege is to be attained. The first thing in Daniel's character which deserves our attention is his early piety. Another is the caution, zeal, and resolution he displayed, in keeping himself unspotted from the world. This, the apostle informs us, is an essential part of pure and undefied religion. A third trait is the holy indifference and contempt with which he looked down on worldly honour, wealth, and applause. It is true he obtained both riches and honours; but it is no less true that he never sought them. Observe also, his exemplary piety and devotion. He was emphatically a man of prayer. He never pleaded as an excuse for neglecting this duty, that his body was too much wearied, and his mind too much perplexed by constant care and fatigue, to perform it. In addition to his daily prayer, he frequently set apart seasons for more special attention to this duty. Another trait in the character of this eminent saint, was his strong faith, and confidence in God. None truly pray, but those whose faith is strong and lively. Profound humility, and a consequent disposition to give the glory to God, is another trait. This appears in his concessions and praises. And further, his religion was habitual, uniform, consistent and lasting. He was always the same. He inflexibly followed the path of duty. Improvement; learn 1. How religion dignifies and ennobles our nature, when it is entertained in its power and purity. Compare Daniel with the nobles, princes, and great ones of Babylon. 2. Do you possess a similar character Let me urge you to imitate the conduct of Daniel. (E. Payson, D.D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And he said unto me, O Daniel, a man greatly beloved, understand the words that I speak unto thee, and stand upright: for unto thee am I now sent. And when he had spoken this word unto me, I stood trembling. |
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