Living a Legacy: Integrity, Faithfulness, and Discipline

 

Summary

Today, as we honor fathers, we are reminded that every one of us is leaving a legacy—whether we realize it or not. The question is not if we are leaving a legacy, but what kind of legacy it will be. Looking to the life of Daniel, we see a powerful example of how to live godly in an ungodly world. Daniel’s story, especially in chapter 6, shows us that the environment or circumstances we find ourselves in do not excuse us from living a life set apart for God. Daniel thrived in captivity, not because his situation was easy, but because he was intentional in his devotion and unwavering in his convictions.

Daniel’s life teaches us that God is not looking for perfection, but for hearts that are intentional in pleasing Him. Daniel chose not to defile himself with the king’s delicacies, demonstrating that spiritual maturity is marked by deliberate choices, even when it means standing alone. The enemy seeks to steal our spiritual valuables—our joy, peace, witness, and influence—but only Jesus can truly satisfy the deepest longings of our hearts. Compromise always leaves us emptier than we expect, but surrender to Christ brings true freedom.

Three key characteristics set Daniel apart: integrity, faithfulness, and discipline. Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Faithfulness is being consistent in our devotion to God, not just when it’s convenient or when others are looking. Discipline is structuring our lives so that time with God is a daily priority, fueling us for whatever challenges we face. These qualities not only benefit us, but also bless our children and those around us, leaving a legacy that points others to faith in God.

Ultimately, the results of living this way are profound: we prosper in ways that go far beyond material wealth, others are drawn to believe because of our example, and God receives the glory. No matter our past, it is never too late to start living as a man of integrity, faithfulness, and discipline. God is able to redeem our story and use our lives to preach a message of hope and conviction to the world.

Key Takeaways

- Legacy is not optional; it is inevitable. Every father—and every believer—is leaving a legacy by the way they live, speak, and make choices. The real question is whether that legacy will be one of conviction or compromise, and whether it will draw others closer to God or further away. [01:14]

- God does not require perfection, but He does require intentionality. Daniel’s life shows that spiritual maturity is not about flawless living, but about making deliberate choices to honor God, even in the small things and even when it means standing alone. This kind of intentional living is what sets us apart in a world that often pulls us toward compromise. [09:10]

- Integrity is the foundation of a godly legacy. Being a person of integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, regardless of who is watching. This quality not only brings favor and promotion from God, but it also blesses our children and those who look up to us, creating a ripple effect of blessing for generations. [21:43]

- Faithfulness is proven in consistency, not convenience. Daniel’s faithfulness was evident because he was the same person in public and in private, unwavering in his devotion to God. Our children and those around us need to see that our faith is not a spiritual “yo-yo,” but a steady, reliable anchor in every season. [26:46]

- Discipline is the daily structure that sustains spiritual growth. Daniel’s habit of prayer and devotion, even when it was risky, demonstrates the power of disciplined living. True discipline means prioritizing time with God above all else, fueling our day with His presence and wisdom, and refusing to let spiritual laziness take root. [28:10]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[00:34] - Honoring Fathers and the Importance of Legacy
[02:30] - Recap of Daniel Series and Spiritual Valuables
[04:30] - Daniel’s Stand: Life of Conviction or Compromise
[07:01] - Daniel’s Convictions and Godly Characteristics
[08:26] - Key Lessons from Daniel: Intentional Living
[11:06] - Guarding Spiritual Valuables and True Freedom
[12:20] - Influence of a Godly Life on Others
[14:16] - Daniel as Proof: Living Godly is Possible
[15:47] - Daniel’s Promotion and Distinguishing Himself
[19:48] - Daniel’s Integrity: What It Means and Why It Matters
[24:41] - Faithfulness: Consistency in Devotion
[28:10] - Discipline: Daily Habits of Prayer and Devotion
[33:41] - The Privilege and Responsibility of Fatherhood
[37:12] - Results of Godly Living: Prosperity, Influence, and God’s Glory
[44:00] - A Call to Fathers: Integrity, Faithfulness, Discipline
[46:17] - Overcoming the Past and Embracing a New Legacy
[48:52] - Prayer and Blessing Over Fathers

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Leaving a Godly Legacy (Daniel 6 & Father’s Day)

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### Bible Reading

- Daniel 6:1-10
(Daniel’s integrity, faithfulness, and discipline in the face of opposition)
- Proverbs 20:7
“The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.”
- Mark 1:35
(Jesus’ example of disciplined prayer: “Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed.”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Daniel 6:1-10, what specific habits or actions set Daniel apart from the other leaders in Babylon?
2. According to Proverbs 20:7, what is the result of a man walking in integrity?
3. How did Daniel respond when he learned about the king’s decree that threatened his life if he prayed to God? (Daniel 6:10)
4. The sermon said, “Daniel distinguished himself above the governors and satraps because an excellent spirit was in him.” What does the passage say was the reason for Daniel’s promotion? [16:26]

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### Interpretation Questions

1. The sermon says, “God is not looking for flawless living but for hearts that are intentional in pleasing Him.” What does it mean to be intentional in our devotion to God, even when it’s hard or unpopular? [08:26]
2. Daniel’s integrity was visible to everyone around him, even those who wanted to harm him. Why do you think integrity is so powerful in influencing others, especially children and those who look up to us? [21:43]
3. The sermon described Daniel’s faithfulness as being “the same person in front of others as he was in private.” Why is consistency in our faith so important for leaving a godly legacy? [26:46]
4. Daniel’s discipline in prayer was a daily habit, even when it was risky. What does this teach us about the role of spiritual discipline in our lives? [28:10]

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon said, “Legacy is not optional; it is inevitable.” What kind of legacy do you think you are currently leaving for your family, friends, or community? Is there anything you want to change about it? [01:14]
2. Daniel made deliberate choices not to compromise, even when it meant standing alone. Can you think of a recent situation where you were tempted to compromise your values? How did you respond, and what would you do differently next time? [09:10]
3. Integrity was defined as “the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching.” Are there areas in your life where you struggle to be honest or consistent? What is one step you can take this week to grow in integrity? [21:43]
4. The sermon challenged fathers (and all believers) to be faithful, not just when it’s convenient. What are some practical ways you can show faithfulness to God and your family this week, especially when no one else is watching? [26:46]
5. Daniel’s discipline was seen in his daily habit of prayer. What does your daily time with God look like right now? Is there a specific change you want to make to prioritize time with God each day? [28:10]
6. The pastor said, “It’s never too early and it’s never too late…from this day forward be a father, a dad, a man of integrity.” If you feel like your past has disqualified you from leaving a godly legacy, what does this sermon say about God’s ability to redeem your story? [46:17]
7. The sermon mentioned that the results of living this way are “prosperity, influence, and God’s glory.” What does prosperity mean to you beyond finances, and how would you like to see God use your life to influence others and bring Him glory? [39:50]

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Closing Prayer:
Invite group members to pray for one another, especially for fathers and future fathers, to be men and women of integrity, faithfulness, and discipline, leaving a legacy that points others to God.

Devotional

Day 1: Living a Life of Integrity
Integrity means being honest and having strong moral principles, even when no one is watching. Daniel distinguished himself in a foreign land because he chose to live differently, to be set apart, and to honor God with his actions and words. Fathers, your children and those around you are watching—let your life preach a message of integrity that blesses not only you but generations after you. The promise is clear: when you walk in integrity, your children are blessed after you. Choose today to be a man whose word can be trusted, whose actions are consistent, and whose convictions are unwavering, regardless of the culture or pressures around you. [23:12]

Proverbs 20:7 (ESV)
The righteous who walks in his integrity—blessed are his children after him!

Reflection: In what specific area of your life do you need to be more honest or consistent so that your children or those around you see a true example of integrity?


Day 2: Faithfulness in All Circumstances
Daniel was found faithful, and no fault could be found in him, not because he was perfect, but because he was steadfast in his devotion to God. Faithfulness means being the same person in private as you are in public, and not letting circumstances or emotions dictate your commitment. Fathers, are you faithful in your walk with God, in your commitments to your family, and in your daily choices? Your faithfulness, especially when things are difficult or when no one is looking, sets a powerful example for your children and those around you. Let your life be marked by unwavering faithfulness, so that nothing can be charged against you except your devotion to God. [24:41]

Daniel 6:4 (ESV)
Then the high officials and the satraps sought to find a ground for complaint against Daniel with regard to the kingdom, but they could find no ground for complaint or any fault, because he was faithful, and no error or fault was found in him.

Reflection: Where in your daily routine or relationships do you tend to waver in faithfulness, and what is one step you can take today to be more consistent?


Day 3: The Power of Spiritual Discipline
Daniel’s life was marked by discipline—he prayed three times a day, every day, as was his custom since early days. Discipline is not about perfection but about structure and intentionality, making time for God no matter what else is happening. Fathers, spiritual discipline fuels your day and anchors your life; it’s about starting your day with God’s Word and prayer, not letting anything else take that place. Even Jesus modeled this by rising early to pray. Let your discipline be visible to your children and those around you, showing them that your relationship with God is your highest priority. [28:10]

Daniel 6:10 (ESV)
When Daniel knew that the document had been signed, he went to his house where he had windows in his upper chamber open toward Jerusalem. He got down on his knees three times a day and prayed and gave thanks before his God, as he had done previously.

Reflection: What is one practical change you can make to ensure daily time with God becomes a non-negotiable part of your routine?


Day 4: Leaving a Godly Legacy
Every life leaves a legacy—either of conviction or compromise. Daniel’s life preached a message of conviction that influenced not only his peers but even pagan kings, leading others to believe in the one true God. Fathers, your choices today are shaping the stories your children and community will tell about you tomorrow. A godly legacy is built by daily decisions to stand for what is right, to refuse compromise, and to let your character point others to faith. Ask yourself what you want your children and others to say about you, and let that vision guide your actions today. [05:08]

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 (ESV)
And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Reflection: What is one value or truth from God’s Word you want to intentionally pass on to your children or those you influence, and how can you do that today?


Day 5: True Freedom and New Beginnings in Christ
No matter your past mistakes or failures, Jesus is able to make all things new and bury the past. The enemy may try to convince you that it’s too late to change or that your legacy is already set, but in Christ, every day is a new opportunity to start fresh. Fathers, your past does not define your future—God’s grace does. Stand firm in your identity as a man of integrity, faithfulness, and discipline, knowing that God receives glory as you walk in His promises. Let today be the day you declare, “From this day forward, I will be the father God has called me to be.” [46:56]

2 Corinthians 5:17 (ESV)
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

Reflection: What is one area of your past that you need to surrender to Jesus today so you can walk forward in freedom and begin building a new legacy?

Quotes

We are leaving a legacy one way or another all of us are leaving a legacy so fathers I really want to zero in on you today and you know as I go through this service I look out and I'm seeing some future dads in the in the congregation as well whether they be really young or or uh you know young adults but uh I feel are probably inspired to be and hope to be future dads so this this goes for you as well fathers you are leaving a legacy. [00:00:55]
The enemy will take your valuables your joy your peace your witness your influence and his ultimate desire is to take even your soul but he will also hold you captive Daniel was being held captive in Babylon but I got to tell you this is the good news of the story this is why it has such a good ending Daniel thrived even in captivity. [00:04:06]
The fact is that all of our lives are preaching so to speak if you would we are preaching either a life of conviction or a life of compromise there's no middle ground your life is demonstrating your life is preaching you don't have to say a word a lot of times though people hear what you say that goes a long way right life and death found in the power of the tongue but your life is preaching a life of conviction. [00:05:08]
You know we also learned from Daniel that it doesn't matter the environment you're in it doesn't even matter the circumstances you're placed in or wind up in no excuses you can live godly in an ungodly world so before we dive into chapter 6 as I mentioned I've already referenced verse three both weeks but we're going to add some scriptures today. [00:08:01]
God is not looking for flawless living but for hearts that are intentional in pleasing him so he's not even asking you to be perfect we we we can't do that this side of heaven but he is asking you to be intentional Daniel was very intentional about his lifestyle you know we learned that they were trying to get him to fall into into those Babylonian ways and that culture and he stood up and said "no I will not defile myself I don't want anything to do with the king's delicacies I don't want to drink the wine he's drinking." [00:08:40]
He died for you choose to live for him wow Daniel's resolve was to honor God even in the little things that's what set him apart reminding us that spiritual maturity is marked by deliberate choices each day we must purpose in our hearts to live for God even this is big even when it means standing alone that will happen sometimes you just got to wear that baggage with honor wow. [00:09:29]
You never can grab enough to satisfy you you can't watch enough you can't have enough you can't drink enough nothing will do it nothing will do drugs won't do it alcohol won't do it other people won't do it sex won't do it nothing will fill that void given to you by your Creator but Jesus it's okay to have some things but they cannot take the place of God Jesus is the only one that will satisfy you. [00:10:26]
Living a life of compromise whether public or private gives the enemy a foothold and holds us captive as we talked about last week true freedom is found in surrender to Christ not in bending to the world not in blending in with the world either the Holy Spirit empowers us to break free from the patterns of sin even the most hostile environments even in the most hostile environments. [00:11:30]
The way we live preaches a message to those around us whether we realize it or not our character and integrity can lead others toward faith just as Daniel's faithfulness impacted a pagan king we really hadn't got to that yet but we're going to see and most of you have heard that before if you've heard anything about Daniel you'll know when he was saved safe nothing harmed about him from the lion's den. [00:12:03]
See living godly in an ungodly world requires daily surrender and dependence on the Holy Spirit the very person of the Holy Spirit is there for you give him control wow you see there are no days off when it comes to this spiritual battle that we're living in the enemy is always seeking an opportunity to reclaim what he's lost by walking in the Spirit and refusing to give up our valuables we can stand firm and experience true freedom in Christ. [00:13:07]
Daniel is a perfect example Daniel is proof that it can be done live godly in an ungodly world listen any place any culture and any time in history which includes right now Daniel is absolute proof that it can be done look at your neighbor and say "it can be done." it can be done. [00:14:03]
The Bible states that Daniel was promoted because of the excellent spirit that was within him right in verse three because of the excellent spirit that was in him well when you go to the original language you know what it's saying this is what it's saying because he was a man of integrity that's the reason he was pro promoted that's the reason he had favor that's the reason he was distinguished because he was a man of integrity when everybody else around him was living one way he was distinguished he was choosing to live another way didn't matter what they were asking him to do. [00:20:32]
Are you honest dads are you honest are you a person of strong moral principles and convictions is that what your life is preaching be a man of integrity and I I started not to do this but but the Lord led me on all three points I only got three points oh I'm being a good preacher today I got three points listen I I'm going to do it for sake of whoever watches it down the road I'll do it for you men in here. [00:21:49]
Fathers be faithful in front of your children when they're looking and when they're not looking be the same person in front of them that you are by yourself remember I'm telling you I think God had me preach this sermon series and use Daniel as such the example because I need you to understand yes Daniel received his promotions Daniel was set over the whole realm he wanted to be he said "I'm I'm you know what I'm thinking about putting you over everything." yes he benefited but it was for the benefit of others I want you to remember that it can be done anytime and it benefits you and others. [00:26:46]
What he did on Sunday he did on Monday what he did on Monday he did on Tuesday you know what I'm trying to teach my men when I say my man it's it's just the group I'm helping mentor Aaron it's next Sunday night you were asking me it's next Sunday night I'll give you details but anyway so men next Sunday night we're hanging out but listen what I'm trying to teach them is don't let anything get in the way of a structure every single day of your life quiet time. [00:28:46]
That you leave here today and say you know what I can live a godly life in an ungodly world I can be the best father God desires me to be and that my children need me to be no matter where they're at mine are grown and gone grown and gone but I know that I'm still having an influence on their life and all the father said let me tell you we see that he was a man of integrity he was faithful and he demonstrated discipline in his life that sounds like a good good formula for a good good father. [00:32:32]

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