Talent

This was a devastating time for the Jews. The exiles who had been brought to Babylon faced an uncertain future. However, realizing that he had been given a new pool of talent, the Babylonian king decided to look for the most gifted young people from among these exiles. He only was interested in the best—the most intelligent, those with no defect, the potential leaders.

Daniel and three of his friends were among those identified. They would be given the best training, food, and education. Then, after three years, they would “enter the king’s personal service” (v. 5). Through this process, God raised up these men to be His witnesses. He used them to testify to His greatness and change the course of the nation.

These men were in a strategic position because of their unique talents and because they developed their talents and allowed God to use them.

Their story illustrates a fundamental principle: God has a call for each of us as individuals. He has given each of us a unique mission. He calls us to fulfill that purpose and serve Him wherever He places us—at church or home, in jobs or communities, politics or education.

At every stage of our lives, we are called to be the “salt of the earth,” and we’re to let our light shine (Matthew 5:13-16). We are God’s witnesses, His ambassadors. We must seek to excel for His sake and for His Kingdom.

In your life, ask God to help you develop the talents He has given you. Be a person of excellence in everything you do, so that others may see what God has given you and you may bring Him glory.