Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were taken captive and brought to live in the King's palace because they were good-looking and, more importantly, smart. They were to be among those who would be chosen by the King after being educated.

During this time, these four men quietly challenged the food that was given them. The King's food and wine were first offered as sacrifices to other gods and then given to the students in the palace. They decided to ask for vegetables and water instead. At the end of a trial period, the four men looked better than the ones who had eaten the sacrificial food and wine provided by the King.

At the end of their education, all the students were brought before the King, but he was most impressed by these four men and brought them into his service. They were found to be more knowledgeable and capable of providing balanced judgment than other sorcerers the King consulted.

Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego had already set themselves apart privately during their training and when the time came, the King set them apart in front of everyone because of their knowledge and understanding.

So it is with God and our relationships. Sometimes, before an outward change is noticeable, an inward change must first take place. A decision to follow Christ personally can lead to us being set apart much like the Hebrew boys in the story above. Paul says to be transformed by the renewing of your mind (Romans 12:2). When you set your mind on thoughts of God, it can change your life outwardly and before men.

Dear Heavenly Father,

I praise You that it is You who still sits on the throne and has my best interest at heart. Thank You for being ever faithful to me. I ask that You help me to become grounded in Your Word and transformed by the renewing of my mind, gaining such a closeness with You, that I too, may be set apart for Your perfect plan. Just as Isaiah heard your voice in Isaiah 6:8, asking, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” I too am responding to Your call with, “Here I am; send me. Use me according to your will.” In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Don’t just say the above prayer and go on with life as usual. Write out a plan today concerning commitments you will make to God to become more knowledgeable of Him and His Word, thereby drawing closer to Him. Stick to that plan regardless of the obstacles the enemy throws your way.