Daniel was a man who found himself constantly in circumstances beyond his control.  He was just a little boy when he was carried off into exile in Babylon.  He lost his freedom, his home, his culture, his friendships and his family.  However, Daniel never complained, felt sorry for himself or blamed anyone for what had befallen him.  He did one thing though, "Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself by eating the king's food" (Daniel 1:8).  He determined to honor God and live by his convictions --- even in this small area of his life.
 
Small battles train us to win big ones.  If Daniel hadn't won the small battle of not defiling himself in the area of his diet, he wouldn't have had the strength to say "no" to idol worship and face the lion's den without fear or compromise.
 
Maybe God wants you to take control in the seemingly small things in your life first before you can be elevated to bigger and better things.  Maybe like Daniel it will involve what you eat, what you feed your mind, or what comes out of your mouth.  You can refuse to gossip, slander, be depressed, worry or be slothful.  You will have to win these small battles first before you handle the pressure of the big ones.  And remember the big battles are what elevate you in the kingdom.  Ask Daniel!