In this episode, we explore Daniel 1 and the quiet strength behind his choice to refuse the royal menu, using it to examine how conviction, health, and integrity intersect amid modern pressures. We discuss the importance of setting clear standards before temptation arises, viewing God’s guidelines as gifts that protect body and soul, and emphasize leaning on the Holy Spirit and Scripture to stand firm when shortcuts tempt us. Cheryl shares a personal story of choosing resolve over immediate relief, illustrating how obedience brings unexpected peace and protection. This conversation offers practical guidance for seeking God’s voice, setting wise boundaries, and holding to your convictions with courage, encouraging listeners to stand firm in their own challenging choices. If this resonates, subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the community.

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In this episode, we reflect on Daniel 1:3–7, where Daniel and his friends are renamed by Babylon, illustrating how labels—though promising clarity—often steal identity, a pattern still seen today as culture assigns us names tied to our seasons or struggles. We explore how empires and cultures reshape people through new language, diets, and identities, contrasting this with the Hebrew names God gives that ground us in His grace and help amid hardship. Through candid reflections on labels like single, divorced, or lonely, we offer practical steps to reclaim our true identity: discovering the meaning of our names, recognizing “king’s tables” that pull us from trust, and replacing those influences with Scripture, prayer, and life-giving community.

This conversation brings hope and strength for those navigating illness, grief, or change, encouraging us to embrace the names God gives over limiting labels and find steady identity amid pressure.

Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey:

The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans

Support Group Directory

Listen to Previous Episodes

Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide

Refresh Your Spirit

Support Our Mission - Donate

Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups.

HELP US GROW:

Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.

In this episode, we explore how the heart drifts toward compromise by examining Exodus 20 alongside Daniel 1, revealing how a people called to exclusive allegiance slowly replace the living God with “little g” gods—good things like work, family, or comfort—that take first place and lead to exile.

Viewing the first commandment through the lens of rescue reframes obedience as a grateful response rather than duty, illustrated by Babylon’s siege and the desecration of temple treasures. Daniel and his friends model quiet resolve and firm boundaries amid pressure, challenging us to confront our own misplaced loves. We offer practical steps for a heart audit to identify idols, uncover fears, and reorder love through fasting, Scripture, Sabbath rhythms, and supportive friendships. This journey isn’t about shame but freedom—putting God first steadies life, fostering courage and lasting joy.

If this message resonates, we would really appreciate it if you shared it, subscribed, and even leave a review to help others find hope.

Please take advantage of our FREE resources below to help you along your health and healing journey:

The Bible App HealingStrong Bible Plans

Support Group Directory

Listen to Previous Episodes

Holistic Curriculum - Participant Guide

Refresh Your Spirit

Support Our Mission - Donate

Please visit our website at healingstrong.org to learn more about our mission and visit our groups tab to learn more about our community groups.

HELP US GROW:

Your donation enables us to continue offering this podcast and other resources for free supporting those facing cancer and chronic illness, caregivers and others. Every donation makes a big difference. Please donate here.