In Daniel 1:8, we read that, "Daniel was determined not to defile himself." We make decisions on what we believe is right. That’s why it is important to know what we believe and why we believe it. You can know what to believe by reading the Bible. The Bible says that "[a]ll Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right" (2 Timothy 3:16).

In Daniel 6:4, we read that the other officials couldn’t find any reason to criticize Daniel. He was faithful and honest and always responsible. God looks at the heart of man (1 Samuel 16:7), and it is character that counts with Him. God calls us to holy living (1 Peter 2:13-16) and commands us to show the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-26) in our lives. Some of the godly values that Daniel showed were faithfulness, responsibility, and trustworthiness (Daniel 6:4). He also was thankful and prayed consistently (Daniel 6:10).

In Daniel 6:10, we read that "when Daniel learned that the law [against praying to anyone except the King] had been signed, he went home and knelt down as usual in his upstairs room, with its window open towards Jerusalem. He prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God."

Isn’t that amazing? Daniel trusted God so much that he did exactly what God asked of him, even when things were difficult! Our actions will speak for us. We, too, need to trust God and stand up for what we believe, even in difficult circumstances. Also, the Holy Spirit will help us during these types of difficult times.

Of course it does. In Daniel 6:10, we read that Daniel "prayed three times a day, just as he had always done, giving thanks to his God." Now three times a day isn't some sort of magic number, but it is obvious that, for Daniel, prayer (time talking with God) was very important. Communicating with God was a value in his life. It was also a discipline -- he prayed regularly every day. To grow as a Christian, we need to make prayer, as well as reading the Bible and doing a daily devotion, a daily discipline. Because Daniel kept his relationship with God strong, he was quick to bring his request to God when he found himself in danger.

Daniel was a man of integrity. This quality influenced people and nations. In Daniel 6:25-26, King Darius sent a message to the people of every race and nation and language throughout the world. He told them to respect and fear Daniel’s God, the living God whose kingdom will never be destroyed and who performs miracles. Daniel’s integrity had a ripple effect. In the same way, our integrity can also influence the people around us. Remember, God will enable you to live a life of integrity.