Page 98 - Grace150 Devotional

But Daniel purposed in his heart. Daniel 1:8 KJV

Years ago, I was impressed with the significance of Daniel 1:8. Daniel knew
what he should and should not eat or drink, and so he asked the court official to
be excused from eating and drinking the food supplied by the king. He purposed
in his heart to be obedient to God’s law.
When God clearly reveals His will, we should purpose, determine, and resolve
to follow it. But why not consider some of life’s situations before they occur and
purpose in our hearts what God would have us do when they occur? We are
far more likely to decide to do the “right” thing when we are not emotionally
involved and unable to think rationally.

I recently had an opportunity to follow this Daniel 1:8 principle. I am a member
of a book club. When the lady who selected this month’s book came to me and
apologized for the book’s vivid content and descriptions, I knew reading the book
could affect my reputation and my ministry among these people. I returned the
book and said, “I have decided not to read this book.” She smiled as if to say,
“I was wondering if you would read it.”

Lord, help us to purpose in our hearts to do Your will.
– Julie Nash

DAY 91 grace 150