At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of my kingdom, my majesty and splendor returned to me. My counselors and my lords sought me, and I was established in my kingdom, and still more greatness was added to me. Daniel 4:36
I continue my pause of my study of Hebrews to study Daniel in conjunction with a disciple/small group study with my church's men's wake up call. This morning my focus is Daniel 4 and my unaided observations of this chapter. Here, once again (v1-3) we see what appears as sincere praise of God by Nebuchadnezzar who witnessed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego be rescued by God from the fiery furnace (Daniel 3). We also see Nebuchadnezzar's second dream (4-18), and Daniel's interpretation of this dream (v19-26). Interpreting the dream troubled Daniel, as he knows it foretells harsh punishment for Nebuchadnezzar - Daniel, as a possible means to avoid such harsh punishment, warns Nebuchadnezzar to practice righteousness and to show mercy to the oppressed (v27). Yet, at least in scripture, we don't see Nebuchadnezzar responding to Daniel's warning. Instead, we see an arrogant response (v30), and the dream comes to fruition with a "voice from heaven" declaring it will come to pass - v31-33. While Nebuchadnezzar is restored and again praises God (v34-35, 37), he arrogantly attributes how his reason is returned to him, "for the glory of [his] kingdom" (v36). We must acknowledge how all comes from God!
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My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves me and who is full of grace and compassion for me - You provide for all of my needs - physical, emotional, and spiritual - everything, every day. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of how You provide. My sin is great and it continues. Help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
