King Nebuchadnezzar gave an order to bring some of the Israelites into training, “…young men without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude for every kind of learning, well informed, quick to understand, and qualified to serve in the king’s palace. He was to teach them the language and literature of the Babylonians. The chief official gave them new names: to Daniel, the name Belteshazzar; to Hananiah, Shadrach; to Mishael, Meshach; and to Azariah, Abednego.” (Daniel 1:7)
- Daniel’s Hebrew name means. “Elohim is my Judge”, it was changed to Belteshazzar, “The Prince of the Babylonian god Bel”
- Hananiah’s Hebrew name means, “Elohim has been Gracious”, it was changed to Shadrach, “Friend of the King.”
- Meshach’s Hebrew name means, “Who is like Elohim?”, it was changed to Meshach, “Worshipper of Shach.” Shach is a Babylonian god.
- Azariah’s Hebrew name means, “Yahweh Has Helped.”, it was changed to Abednego, “Servant of Nego.” another Babylonian god.
The Babylonians expected that the Hebrews would forget their God. They even gave the young men of Israel new names that referenced pagan gods. But Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah NEVER FORGOT their true identity in the Lord God of Israel. “Daniel resolved not to DEFILE HIMSELF with the royal food and wine, (that they were expected to eat and drink) and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself this way. Now God had caused the official to show favor and compassion to Daniel…” (Daniel 1:8-9) “To these four young men GOD GAVE KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING of all kinds of literature and learning. And Daniel could understand visions and dreams of all kinds. The king talked with them, and he found none equal to Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah; so, they entered the king’s service. In every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king questioned them, he found them TEN TIMES BETTER than all the magicians and enchanters in his whole kingdom.” (Daniel 1:17-20)
WHEN WE ARE FAITHFUL TO GOD, HE WILL PLACE US WHERE WE CAN DO THE BEST FOR HIM…
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham