When Daniel was taken captive into Babylon, he determined NOT to defile himself with the “royal food and wine.” You know the story: the servant was afraid he’d be killed if Daniel and the other Jews lost weight. Daniel said, “Give us vegetables for ten days, then check. If we look poorly, we’ll eat the king’s food.” But after ten days, they looked good, so the vegan diet continued.
But why the veganism? Jews had always eaten lamb, beef, mutton, milk, poultry, and eggs. But the king of Babylon’s food was too rich. What does that mean? More salt, more fat, more carbs, more sugar, more protein—and probably many ingredients, flavorings, and spices that were not allowed under kosher law.
In other words, ‘a meal fit for a king’ would probably be today’s basic American restaurant food. Think about it: any king from history would be blown away by the abundant choices at Luby’s, or even the Golden Corral, or by the quality and quantity of delicious, healthy (though fattening) food at places like Saltgrass, Red Lobster, Chili’s, or the Olive Garden.
Today’s restaurants would amaze even the pickiest royal palates of the past. And Daniel would probably refuse to eat in any of them. Seriously.
And why did the diet work in ten days? It was probably lack of acne and their good complexion—that’s the fastest thing to change.
Eating “clean” can do wonders for your skin.
But there’s more. God blessed them: “God [also] gave these four young men knowledge and understanding in every kind of literature and wisdom.” Daniel 1:17. That is, God chose to bless Daniel for his obedience. It’s not just about food. When we determine to honor God with our choices, He will bless us in many areas. When you eat right, He will bless your health, complexion, or weight. But when you obey Him, He will also bless your mind with wisdom and understanding. God is looking for people to bless—and He loves to bless those who are determined to obey Him.
“His eye roams to and fro about the earth seeking to support those whose hearts are truly His.” 2 Chronicles 16:9.
If you crave God’s blessings, make up your mind to obey Him. Plant good seeds, and remember that the harvest comes later.
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