Driven By God’s Purpose, Not Ours
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
A lot of people purpose to do things that they never accomplish. Most New Year’s Resolutions illustrate this perfectly. Our purposes as Christians need clear definition with the aim being to glorify God. Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God (I Corinthians 10:31).
Daniel purposed not to do anything that would cause his life to be defiled. He did not want to do anything outside of the will of God in his life. It is important for us to recognize that Daniel made this decision prior to being taken captive in a foreign land. Many who fall to temptation do so because they were not prepared for it beforehand. Some who fall to temptation do so because they tried to resist it in the flesh instead of finding their strength in their relationship with the Lord. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of His might (Ephesians 6:10). Our continual strengthening in union with God is God’s will. We cannot fight spiritual battles with physical strength.
Some make certain commitments and automatically think that failure could never happen to them. Peter told the Lord that he was willing to die for Him but when the hour of temptation came, he denied the Lord three times. We must be very careful when it comes to self-confidence.
The moment we make the commitment (decision), it is important to be feeding on the Word of God daily (constantly). You can be certain that Satan will lay some traps for you once you are committed. It is as you are strong in the Lord that He will even provide the means whereby you can honor the commitment. For example: When Daniel was asked to violate his biblical commitment, not only did he have the spiritual strength to keep it, but also God gave to him a way to handle the circumstances in a wise and respectful way.
What would it take to get you to shy away from obeying God — money, peer pressure, position, prestige, avoiding confrontations and public opinion?
Are you holding strong to clear purposes in your life that would honor God. Ask the Lord to strengthen you against the wiles of the devil (Ephesians 6:11). Pray for those in authority over you who may ask you to do things contrary to who you are in Christ Jesus. Continue to hide God’s Word away in your life that you might not sin against God (Psalm 119:11).
George Stiekes held successful pastorates in churches in Michigan and Washington among other places. He currently resides in North Carolina and blogs at Reverent Reflections. We recommend his ministry and republish his material by permission.