09/09/2013 - THE NECESSARY QUALITIES

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Then the king instructed Ashpenaz, the master of his eunuchs, to bring some of the children of Israel and some of the king’s descendants and some of the nobles, young men in whom there was no blemish, but good-looking, gifted in all wisdom, possessing knowledge and quick to understand, who had ability to serve in the king’s palace, and whom they might teach the language and literature of the Chaldeans.

Daniel 1.3-4

When invading Judah, Nebuchadnezzar—king of Babylon—was impressed by what he saw in young Israelites. He was used by the Lord to set an example to the rebels of the chosen people, because they needed to learn that serving God is much better than serving the enemy. Unfortunately, many people only start obeying the Lord when they go through a big crisis. The best way to learn is through love, but many people do not see that.

One lesson we can learn from this episode is that we must inspire the world with our attitude. For instance, if your employer never gives you an opportunity to grow professionally, or if you have not found your “soul mate” yet, maybe that is because you have an attitude of arrogance, and people are not impressed at all by it. We must always examine ourselves to see if we are serving the Lord as we should.

Nebuchadnezzar wanted people who were part of God’s family. There is always work for those who have this “qualification”. He also wanted them to be the king’s descendants. In order to be a disciple of Jesus, we must stand firm in his promises. The nobility of some children of God will open doors. Those who are sloppy in their service to God have no idea how much harm they are doing to themselves, because our heavenly Father loves those who love him (Proverbs 8.17).

There must be no blemish in the children of the Almighty God. So we have to be careful in relation to our words, gestures, and the way we look at people and act. Those who are of God are good-looking, because they take care of their body, wear clothes that fit them well, and have a good physical and spiritual posture; they study the Scriptures to learn more about the Word of God and become wise. And they also have knowledge.

A person who follows the Lord Jesus is not alienated from what is happening in the world, nor becomes too attached to worldly things; rather, he knows everything well. He is flexible and able to live anywhere; he knows how to behave among humble people, as well as how to live in a palace. He is prepared to speak the language of the nation and, especially, the language of faith.

Regardless of where the Lord wishes to send you to represent him, act like an honorable child of God. And be careful with your behavior today, because tomorrow it will be remembered.

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares