Matthew Henry Commentary Daniel 1:17-21

"Now as for these four youths, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. And at the end of the days which the king had appointed for bringing them in, the prince of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. And the king communed with them; and among them all was found none like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah: therefore stood they before the king. And in every matter of wisdom and understanding, concerning which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his realm. And Daniel continued even unto the first year of king Cyrus." — Daniel 1:17-21 (ASV)

Daniel and his companions kept to their religion; and God rewarded them with eminence in learning. Godly young people should strive to do better than their peers in useful things; not for human praise, but for the honor of the gospel, and so that they may be equipped for service. And it is good for a country, and for the honor of a prince, when he is able to judge who are best suited to serve him and prefers them for that reason. Young men should pay close attention to this chapter; and everyone should remember that God will honor those who honor him, but those who despise him will be lightly esteemed.