Living as exiles in a foreign land, we are called to remember our worth, refuse cultural idols, and rejoice in God's rule. The story of Daniel illustrates how God takes individuals to uncomfortable places, but favors them while they're there, promoting them and giving them wisdom and revelation. This is a dynamic tension between being citizens of God's kingdom and living in the earthly realm, where people may not understand or appreciate our faith. The gospel brings freedom from shame, and as we experience this freedom, we are called to be real about our situations, even in the midst of exile, and to point others to God's promises of restoration and comfort.
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