Charles Spurgeon Commentary Daniel 1:8

"But Daniel purposed in his heart that he would not defile himself with the king`s dainties, nor with the wine which he drank: therefore he requested of the prince of the eunuchs that he might not defile himself." — Daniel 1:8 (ASV)

But Daniel purposed in his heart –

I always like to come across a "but" when any scheme of this kind is going on. When the plan is to lead men astray from what is right, then it is a good thing to have a but, but, but, But Daniel purposed in his heart, determined, settled, fixed it.

That he would not defile himself with the portion of the king's meat, nor with the wine which he drank:

Daniel here mentions only himself; but the three others were one with him in the resolve and the request. He was the leader.

Sometimes there would be no Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego if there were not a Daniel. The other three might never have had the strength of mind if it had not been for the Daniel, who dared to stand alone; but having such a brave leader, they dared to stand with him. We often owe much to spiritually-minded men, who are able to help others to take a right course.