Daniel 1verse8: ‘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.’ 

What are your New Year resolutions, and how far have you gone concerning fulfilling them? The subject of setting New Year resolution is an age-long practice that dates back to the Romans, Babylonians, and Medieval Knights, who all made resolutions at the beginning of the year. For me, there is nothing wrong with setting a New Year resolution, provided you are ready to play your part! When you look at the scriptures, you see people making all kinds of resolutions, such as the following: 

-The Prodigal Son made a resolution to go back to his father. Lk15v17-20 

-Joshua and his family made a resolution to serve the Lord. Jos24v15 

-Jacob made a resolution to serve the God of his Fathers. Gen28v20-22 

-And, of course, Daniel (our text scripture) made a resolution not to defile himself. Dan1v8. The notion of having a New Year resolution is not a bad idea because of the benefits it can bring into your life and some of the benefits include: 

1. It allows you to start afresh. Last year may be gone, but a new year often offers us another chance to start afresh. So, are you going to make the most of this chance? Isa43v18-19. 

2. It helps you to make positive changes in your life. Yes, a New Year resolution can help you improve your life’s quality if you take those resolutions to heart and seriously. So if I were you I would seize this opportunity of becoming a better person! 

3. It gives you the benefit of finding answers or solutions to certain problems or issues in your life. This is why it’s called a resolution in the first place: You are seeking answers and solutions to certain issues in your life. So, what do you want to resolve in your life spiritually, mentally, emotionally, physically, financially, or professionally? Gen32v26 

I pray that this series of teachings will empower you for a victorious life this year in Jesus name, amen. 

See you in lesson two for the continuation of this series. 

Other Scriptures References: Ps16v8; Rut1v16-18; 1Sam1v11, 17; Jb31v1. 

Prayer for Today: Holy Spirit, help me to make the most of this year in Jesus name, amen. 

CONFESSION: By the grace and mercy of God, I will do better this year. I am becoming, with his help, a new and better person! I am turning a new leaf. I receive his grace and help in fulfilling my resolutions this year in Jesus name, amen.