MAY 28, Daniel 1:8

The time of Daniel was a time of pain and shame for Israel, for this nation of God was invaded by foreigners, and some of their best youths were taken away by the king of Babylon. Daniel was one of these young Jewish boys, taken to Babylon. People there worshipped idols. But Daniel loved the Lord, and he made up his mind to be faithful to his God. It is important to note that Daniel “purposed” in his heart. In other words, he prepared his heart, and right from the beginning, he told himself to be temperate and to be holy unto God.

When offered the choicest meats and best wines, he refused as he knew those were offered to idols and eating them would not bring glory to God.

Do you like to eat? And here, we are talking about what must be yummy food! Although Daniel may have been tempted to give in, to eat and join the rest, he exercised temperance, and dared to be different.

Is temperance (self-control) one of your characteristics?
Underline or shade your answer -
1. Your little brother broke your favorite toy.
You are very sad -
You pushed him away / You prayed and forgave him.

2. It will soon be your bed-time.
You have not finished your Bible-reading -
You continue your Bible-reading /
You go off to watch your favourite TV show.

3. The little girl was running.
Her shining dollar coin dropped to the ground -
You pocket the coin / You return it to her.

Thought: Do I really try to say “No” to myself, and “Yes” to God?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me control myself, not to give in to bad habits and bad actions. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.