Feb 18 – RESOLUTION !

“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…” (Daniel 1: 8)

All of you are in the habit of making some fresh resolutions in the new year. There are some resolutions that you need to make for every month and every day of the new year. These are absolutely essential to preserve your soul and to make a steady progress in your spiritual life.

Look at the resolution of Daniel in the above verse. It was a resolution for the purpose of living a holy and pure life, without any stain or defilement. And God honoured Daniel, as he took such a noble resolution.

While you are earnest to lead a holy life, God is even more zealous to keep you steadfast in the path of holiness. The Scripture says: “ but as He who called you is holy; you also be holy in all your conduct” (1 Peter 1: 15). God can use you only to the extent of your holiness. Therefore, every day renew your commitment to holiness.

Secondly, make a clear decision that no one should be made to stumble, because of you. Apostle Paul says: “but rather resolve this, not to put a stumbling block or a cause to fall in our brother’s way” (Romans 14: 13).

Today, there is so much of jealousy and wrath, where people complain about and remain as a stumbling block for each other. Some are led away by strange doctrines, move away from the love of God and prove to be a hindrance for many others. Apostle Paul writes: “And this I pray… that you may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ” (Philippians 1: 9-10).

Thirdly, you must resolve that you should not transgress with your mouth. David says: I have purposed that my mouth shall not transgress” (Psalm 17: 3). Many sins are caused by the words of mouth. Solomon the Wise, says: “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking,

But he who restrains his lips is wise” (Proverbs 10:19). Every day, make a firm resolution in your heart, that you will only speak words of God, and not the vain words of men.
Children of God, you will surely be blessed by the Lord, if you are determined to keep these resolutions in your life.

“Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?” (James 3: 10, 11).