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The Proposal of the Heart’s AdvantagesDaniel 1:8 “But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself.”Temptation lurks and brings us down if we don’t follow Daniel’s example and purpose in our hearts, not to sin no matter how tempting the situation. It has several advantages-You make up your mind and stick with it.In a strange place at a trying time, Daniel did not succumb to the greatest empire on earth’s menu forbidden in Israel's menu. He proposed in his heart long before the temptation came, and when it came, he was resolute not to partake, no matter what it cost him.Someone has said, “If you don’t make up your mind about something, your unmade mind will make you. . It is too risky to wait for a weak moment to decide what you will do. Live by God’s Word always no matter what it costs you.-You will not budge in your determination to do right. When the temptation came, there was a line Daniel was determined not to cross. To yield to sin was to disobey God. There wasn’t anything that would make Him give in. We need bulldog faith that will not let go of God’s promises to protect and provide for us. God will provide a way of escape no matter by what means (I Cor. 10:13).There’s a reward for it. The reward came from a contest between Babylonian young men and their diet, which was inadequate compared to Daniel and his fellow Israelites. They got to be the king’s confidentIt doesn’t say the other’s mindset, but you must believe Daniel influenced his friends for the right People are watching you: WHAT ARE YOU GOING TO DO? Let God have His way and overcome any temptation. It all begins before you face the temptation face to face. The armor of God is sufficient to say no to sin and yes to God if you propose to do so beforehand.--- Dan Nelson