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
It is that time of the year when many make New Years’ Resolutions.
There are many things we would like to achieve in this upcoming year.
At the top of the list should be our Christian growth.
With any goal we set, the leading of the Lord should always play a part.
His wisdom and knowledge covers every area of our lives.
When we don’t, we will make little or no progress in reaching our goals or remaining steadfast to them.
We are to be like Daniel in today’s Scripture.
Doing what was right in the Lord’s eyes was his focus.
And even though certain mandates were being set before him, he and his brothers refused to eat the king’s meat.
He had an established plan and stuck to it.
He didn’t let anything, or anybody keep him from doing what he knew was best for him.
He was determined to remain steadfast in his spiritual beliefs.
The same should hold true in our lives.
Living according to the Word is our focus.
The Bible gives us the knowledge and strength needed to deny anything the devil tries to send our way.
With it we can set clearly defined goals for our spiritual growth and stick to them.
It is not enough for us to just say that we are going to be better Christians.
We should be setting up a plan that will truly show how we intend to make the progress desired in our lives.
And just like with Daniel, others will see how beneficial living according to the Word can be.
No matter what the year brings, be like Daniel and purpose in your heart not to let anything make you impure or unclean in the eyes of the Lord.
Stay faithful in all you do.
Put living according to the Word at the top of your list.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Savior, we are grateful that we have made it to the end of 2023. May we continue to make spiritual progress. Progress in this upcoming year and beyond. Keeping at a distance the many temptations that may come our way. Avoiding them as much as possible. We desire to stay in Your favor. To receive all the blessings, You have for us. Praying for all our goals to truly strengthen our faith, as well as our relationship with You. Thank You Savior for all You do for us.
In Jesus’ Name We Pray, Amen