Training for Service

 Scripture Reading: Daniel 1

Focus Verse: Daniel 1:5  They were to be trained for three years, and after that they were to enter the king's service.

Training is important before entering service.  Even a blade of steel needs careful attention before it can slice through a piece of meat.  Just as the knife needs sharpening, our spiritual skills need to be sharpened before God can effectively use us.  Maybe you don't have the resources to attend Bible college or go to seminary, but you can gain a great deal of biblical knowledge through your church and personal Bible study.  It is wise to prepare, instead of rushing off unequipped to serve.

Daniel and his friends did not compromise their conviction in God.  Even as they trained under ungodly authority, they held to their Godly instruction from their youth.  God still worked His purposes in their lives.  Sometimes the training process is not always pleasant.  Hebrews 12:11 says, "No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening, it is painful.  But afterward there will be a quiet harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way."

Most importantly stay in the training process so you can be a better servant for God.  He will see you through.  He is training you for the task He has planned for your life.

Bobby Johnson
Interlocking Ministries