SOAP 09/11/2011; Daniel 1:8

Today's reading: Daniel 1, 2; Revelation 16

S)" ⁸ But Daniel made up his mind that he would not defile himself with the king’s choice food or with the wine which he drank; so he sought permission from the commander of the officials that he might not defile himself."

Daniel 1:8 (NASB)

O) I think it's important to realize that Daniel wasn't making a snap decision. He wasn't suddenly feeling convicted about his diet. He had already kept himself clean (according to God's commandments regarding food). So, when it says, "Daniel made up his mind..." this was a decision that he ultimately made, well before he was ever in the king's service. I also thought it was interesting that he still requested to not eat the food. It makes me wonder if he would have gone on a hunger strike... I don't think that counts as fasting...

A) I need to make good habits, so that when life's circumstances come against me, I am able to remain faithful in my commitments to God. As I write this, it is 01:18, Monday morning. I have to get up for work in a little more than 5 hours. Making the decision to journal was a lot easier, having consistently done so for a couple months now. I need to continue on the good habits I already have, while seeking to establish more and more good habits.

P) Father, strengthen me to continue on in my growth and disciplines, God. There are classic disciplines that have served Christians well for 2000 years and I want to become more and more effective in those disciplines, so that I am in better position to be used by You, LORD. Help me humble myself, God, so that I am able to receive Your instruction, and become a better man. Holy Spirit, continue the good work in me, as it's described in Philipians 1:6. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.