The Power of a Made-up Mind (I)

The Power of a Made-up Mind (I)

But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, nor with the wine which he drank; therefore, he requested of the chief of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself. Daniel 1:8 [NKJV]

Bible Reading: Daniel 1

Welcome to another series titled, The Power of a Made-up Mind. It is my prayer that God’s word will truly be a lamp unto our feet and a light unto our path.

The first time I read the book of Daniel over ten years ago, I was amazed at the sentence ‘Daniel proposed in his heart’ (Daniel 1:8a). I was fascinated by the level of Daniel’s determination which made him to say no to the king’s meal that had been offered to idols. Daniel by faith in God took some audacious steps that sounded illogical to the natural man.

First, Daniel’s proposition made him take a bold step to speak to the chief of eunuchs about his decision to separate himself and deny himself of the king’s meal. The Bible recorded that Daniel found favor in the sight of the chief of eunuchs. Daniel assured the chief of eunuchs by faith that he will not look lean as the chief feared. And God honoured Daniel’s faith.

In addition, Daniel’s singular act influenced others. His other Hebrew brothers followed him and did exactly what he did. At the end of ten days, Daniel and his brothers looked better and fatter than those who ate the king’s meal.

I invite you to ponder on these questions as we examine the power of a made-up mind for the next few days: What decision will you make up your mind on in your walk with God and in other areas of your life? What work will your faith inspire you to do?

Daily Confession: Lord as I commit to serving you, make my life better in every ramification and let your glory rest upon my household.

Intercessory prayer: May the Lord bless my household.

Hymn: Stand up, stand up for Jesus,

Ye soldiers of the cross;

Lift high his royal banner,

It must not suffer loss.

From victory unto victory

His army shall he lead,

Till every foe is vanquished,

And Christ is Lord indeed.