Key Truth: God’s are
- God’s people are different in what we believe (v. 8)
- God’s people are different in what we consume (v. 8, 12)
- God’s people are different in what we have (v. 17)
- God’s people are different in who we are (v. 19)
BIG POINT: When our faith is , God’s people are
NOTES:
QUESTIONS FOR FURTHER STUDY
• What does your name mean? If you don’t know, look it up.
• How do you normally respond when you feel out of place or like you
don’t belong?
Read Daniel 1:8-21 and discuss:
• Why is it important to pre-decide your convictions before you’re
tested? What are some things in your life that are “not for sale”—non-
negotiable convictions that you’ve pre-decided to protect?
• Daniel didn’t stand alone. His friends stood with him. Why do you
think community and accountability are essential when you’re trying to
live differently than the culture around you?
• What’s the difference between being self-righteous and being
resolved? How can we avoid the trap of one while pursuing the other?
• Where in your life is it hardest to “be different” as a follower of
Christ?
• How did Daniel gain favor with those in authority while still living out
his convictions? What can we learn from his approach?
• Daniel and his friends were known for who they were. If someone
looked at your life, what would they say sets you apart?
• In what ways are we called to be thermostats (setting the spiritual
temperature) rather than thermometers (reacting to it)?
PERSONAL REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
• Take time this week to write down three areas where you will not
compromise—your “non-negotiables”
• Consider a 7–10 day media fast to create space to hear from God
more clearly.
• Pray for God to use your distinctiveness for His glory, not your
reputation. Ask God to grow your spiritual gifts (like Daniel in v.17) and
to use you as a light in your sphere of influence.