Working Through the Bibleనమూనా

Companies work hard to recruit, train, and retain exceptional employees. Any organization is largely defined by its people. The same was true in the 6th century BC for empires aiming to rule the world. That’s why, when Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, conquered Jerusalem in 586 BC, one of his primary goals was to bring the best of Israel onto his staff. This strategy hasn’t changed. He sought young individuals with potential, “youths without blemish," “of good appearance," and “competent to stand in the king’s palace.” He enrolled them in an ancient executive training program “to teach them the literature and language of the Chaldeans.” Perhaps most importantly, he treated them lavishly to reward their efforts and secure their loyalty: “The king assigned them a daily portion of the food that the king ate.”

But Daniel notices what is occurring. He understands that Nebuchadnezzar is attempting to bribe him so that he will, in essence, become Babylonian. He resolves to take a stand. He will serve the king, but he will not be owned by him. We aren’t told why consuming the king’s food and drink would defile Daniel, but perhaps that ambiguity is intentional. By leaving it unclear, we can conclude that Daniel recognized a line he wasn’t willing to cross in order to maintain his personal integrity. He had the courage to uphold his integrity in the workplace.

Few of us will encounter situations as dire or extreme as Daniel's. However, all of us participate in institutions that sometimes seek to purchase our loyalty. Many companies desire not just work from their employees; they want complete dedication. Daniel chose not to give his employer his whole self. For us, we can ask the question, “What is the line I will not cross?” Our aim is to be faithful to our employers but not to surrender our entire identity to them. This question requires wisdom, discernment, and support from others. Daniel provides us with an example to follow. As we seek Christ in community, he will guide and empower us to do the same.

This week, all of the passages center on the theme of exile as a model for working in the present world.