Title

It Starts In the Heart

Scripture
But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king’s delicacies, not with the wine that he drank.
(Daniel 1:8)
Devotional
Daniel was not concerned with his diet; he was concerned with not defiling himself by eating that which the Lord commanded him not to eat. This was a spiritual issue not a health issue. Here we have the beginning of Daniel’s greatness, his reaching beyond his limits. It all starts in the heart. He purposed in his heart to obey the Lord.
Someone once said that all journeys begin with the first step. I believe that it would be better said that all journeys begin in the heart. Until we get the heart settled, the journey will never be sure. Because Daniel purposed in his heart not to eat, he was later able not to bow and survive the lion’s den.
What exploits has God prepared for you? What tests are you facing in preparation for them? Will you dare purpose in your heart to do the honorable, the right and the obedient? If so, greatness is waiting for you.
Text For The Day
Daniel 1:8: 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.
 
Thought For The Day
“We come to know truth not only reason, but still more so through our hearts…  The heart has its reasons that reason does not know.” Blaise Pascal, (1623-1662).  French mathematician, theologian, physicist, and man-of-letters
Questions To Ponder
 
Morning Study Guide
Defining:  “Purpose in the heart”: To decide before hand to do what one is by conviction determined to do, no matter what the consequences.
 
Referencing: “His face was set for the journey to Jerusalem,” Luke 9:53.
 
Applying: Make sure that which you determine in your heart is God’s determination for you. Once that is done do not turn to the left or the right, keep your eyes fixed on your target, your goal, and your dream.