Are you pursuing Convenience or Consistency?

Talk is cheap isn't it? Think about how many resolutions are made and broken and weeks of the initial commitment. We all have good intentions, but somehow our resolve fades over time and we fall back into our failed patterns of behavior that has robbed us of the fullness of life Jesus came to give. 

So what do we do......

As we tackle this new challenge, as we pursue a deep relationship with God and abundant faith, we do it with our eyes on the prize. Our goals nor godliness never happens by accident. 

Daniel and his friends Hanniah, Mishael and Azariah were Israelites from the royal family. They were handsome, bright and quick to learn. They were considered the best of the best. And the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar wanted them; he put them into his training program designed to fully indoctrinate them into the ways and culture of Babylon.

The culture was attractive and enticing. It appealed to one's desire for success, sensuality, self-indulgence and status. Sounds familiar, doesn't it?

Even though Daniel was surrounded by the allure of this culture, he resisted it's pull & remained true to God. He would not eat the Royal food offered to idols.

Lesser men would've crumbled under the pressure, but not Daniel. This decision to follow God was not one of convenience. It was a matter of consistency and loyalty. 

The decision to pursue God, to grow spiritual roots to walk with God in a personal way requires resolve. Not the kind of resolve that is broken by excuses or obstacles. 

And the great truth here is that it actually feels good to take a stand and do things differently. It produces courage, especially when you know that you have stood with God. And this courage then grows into an even greater resolve to follow through, overcome challenges and stay the course.

So with Daniel as our example I have a couple of questions for. Take your time and think through them, answer them and act on the resolve:

1. What actions can you take to do things differently than everybody else?

2. What are common ways that you give into the pressure of those around you? With food? With lifestyle?

For more of "small things, BIG Difference" go to FocusChurch.com to see the schedule which begins Sunday, May 18