But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.
Daniel 1:8
Don’t be defiled by the King’s portion.
The fame, the acclaim, the recognition, the appreciation, the fanfare, the fanfiction, the flirtatious glances, the approval from Father figures, the power, the access, the fear, the respect, the elimination of daily struggle, the irk and ire of notable opponents, the flattery of anonymous strangers, the dinner parties, the award ceremonies, the trophies and statues…
Don’t let this defile you. Don’t let this corrupt, pollute or stain you.
Of course it’s delicious and nice to have. But even as you are surrounded by it, remember to guard your heart. Remember that you are on assignment. And don’t allow the accoutrements of your assignment to render you useless to fulfill it.