Read Daniel 1 – 2
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 KJV
Daniel had been one of the early captives taken from Israel to Babylon. Because of special qualities he was chosen for training to serve the king of Babylon. One of the many privileges with this selection was to eat of the king’s food. Here, Daniel distinguished himself. He had purposed in his heart not to defile himself with the food and drink of the king’s table; he desired to live a life pleasing to God. The items available were not acceptable diet for Jews concerned about keeping the Jewish dietary laws. Daniel was young, away from home, and a captive, it would have been easy for him to do what he had been taught was wrong. People young and old compromise their faith and moral values, and give in to sin with far less reason to do so. We often blame our circumstances for the sinful choices we make, but Daniel’s circumstances showed what was in his heart.
Lord, Daniel did not sin against You because he purposed in his heart not to do so. Although it is unlikely I will ever be in similar circumstances as Daniel, whatever they might be, help me show the same resolve by making sure it is in my heart.
A question to ponder: What kind of possible circumstances would provide a similar test for the resolve of my heart?
