By Emeka Odogwu
A Priest Assistant, Church of The Holy Spirit (CHS) Awka, Reverend Augustine Otiji, has exhorted Christians to be courageous and faithful in serving God and humanity.
Reverend Otiji who spoke in a sermon with the theme: ”Dare to Be Daniel”, taken from Daniel 6:10–23; Hebrews 11:1–2; insisted that Christians must learn the courage of the biblical Daniel at all times.
He said the theme challenged believers to live courageously and faithfully for God in a world that often rejected them.
He further said that to dare meant to have courage and integrity in the face of danger, pressure, or opposition.
Reverend Otiji said that, like Daniel, Christians were called to live by faith – being sure of what they hoped for and confident in what they did not see (Heb. 11:1).
‘Daniel’s faith was not just belief but a lifestyle of obedience, trust, and holiness. Despite the pressures of Babylon, Daniel stood firm by refusing the king’s food (Dan. 1:8) and maintaining his prayer life even when it was dangerous (Dan. 6:10),’ Rev Otiji said.
He further stated that Daniel’s integrity and faith influenced others to honour God, noting that Daniel prayed openly three times daily (Dan. 6:10).
He added, ‘Believers are to pray continually (1 Thess. 5:17; Eph. 6:18).
Trust God for deliverance – God rescues those who trust Him (Dan. 6:16–23; Ps. 34:7; Ps. 121:4–8). Trials often reveal God’s glory”.
‘Influence your world for God – Live a holy and excellent life that points others to God (Matt. 5:13–16; John 17:15–17).’
Reverend Otiji said the benefits of standing firm in the Lord were numerous, including divine favour and promotion, remarking that faithfulness brought elevation and honour (Dan. 2:48; Matt. 25:21).
‘Divine Protection – God delivers His faithful servants as He shut the lions’ mouths for Daniel (Dan. 6:22; Rom. 8:31).
‘Eternal Life and Glory – Enduring trials for righteousness leads to eternal reward (1 Tim. 4:7–8; Matt. 5:10).
‘Peace – God gives inner peace and courage to those who trust Him (Phil. 4:6–7),’ he said.
He concluded that like Daniel, believers must choose obedience to God over worldly gain, adding that the temptation to conform was real but that it profited nothing to gain the world and lose one’s soul (Mark 8:36).
‘True honor comes from faithfulness to Christ who is the Way, the Truth, and the Life’ (John 14:6).
He therefore urged Christians to stand firm, reject compromise, expose falsehood (Eph. 5:11), and live as agents of truth in a corrupt world.
