When we go out into the world as Christians, Jesus says our lives will have three characteristics. First, we are salt that preserves the people and societies around us from decay. Second, we will inevitably be hurt by those who misunderstand or reject our beliefs. Lastly, we will be like a light on a hill that attracts people from all around.
Daniel’s life under the king Darius, including his being thrown into a den of lions and rescued by God, highlights these very principles.
Let’s examine how 1) we can work for the peace and prosperity of those around us, 2) how to respond to hostility against us, and 3) how knowing where our true salvation lies can be attractive to others.