Daniel, the Hebrew captive, was exposed in his youth to the allurements of the king’s court; yet he remained true to the principles taught him by his fathers. He purposed in his heart that he would not eat of the luxuries of the king’s table, or drink of his wines. This purpose was not formed without due reflection and earnest prayer, and when once his position was taken, he was not to be moved from it. Though surrounded by temptations to self-indulgence and dissipation, he would not consent to violate his conscience. He made God his strength; his mind was not enervated by habits of indulgence, which crush out true, godlike manhood; and he was prepared to attain both moral and intellectual greatness.
(PH136 9.4)
Daniel’s companions, also, resolutely denied selfish desires, and put away hurtful gratifications. As a result, their minds became strong and vigorous. They chose the real, the true, and the useful, rather than the momentary indulgence of appetite and pride. They did all in their power to place themselves in right relation to God, and the Lord was not unmindful of their firm, persevering, earnest effort.
(PH136 9.5)
The Scriptures declare of Daniel and his fellows: “As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.”
(PH136 9.6)
These youth had placed themselves in connection with the Source of all wisdom. They learned of Christ, the world’s greatest teacher. 10While improving their opportunities to obtain a knowledge of the sciences, they were obtaining, also, the highest education which it is possible for mortals to receive. They received light directly from the throne of Heaven, and read the mysteries of God for future ages.
(PH136 9.7)
“And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm.” These youth determined that the talents intrusted to them of God should not be perverted and enfeebled by selfish indulgence. They reverenced their own manhood. They kept their eyes fixed steadfastly on the good which they wished to accomplish. They honored God, and God honored them....
(PH136 10.1)
Religious principle lies at the foundation of the highest education. If our youth are but balanced by principle, they may with safety improve the mental powers to the very highest extent, and may take all their attainments with them into the future life.
(PH136 10.2)
Temptations assail the young on every hand. Fathers and mothers should give thought and study and persevering effort to the training of their children that they may stand unsullied by the prevailing evil, as did those Hebrew youth in the court of Babylon.—The Review and Herald, November 6, 1883.
(PH136 10.3)