Text: Daniel 4:28-36

Dear Brethren,

ALL BUT FORGOTTEN COMPLETELY
A whole year had passed since Nebuchadnezzar had this dream interpreted for him (Daniel 4:28,29). The king had probably forgotten all about this dream and the strong word of admonition given to him by Daniel.

As he was walking about in his royal palace in Babylon, he allowed pride to fill his heart and thus he said,

"Is not this great Babylon, that I have built
for a royal dwelling by my mighty power
and for the honour of my majesty?"
Daniel 4:30

THE FULFILMENT OF GOD'S WORD
Daniel's word of warning came into effect immediately! The word of God had come to pass. God's Word must never be trifled with! We read these solemn words,

"A voice fell from heaven:
King Nebuchadnezzar,
To you it is spoken:
The kingdom has departed from you!"
Daniel 4:31

Let us stand amazed at the power of God's Word. Let us pray for a heart that is humble before God. May we learn to have a healthy regard for God's Word!

THE INTENDED LESSON
God's point was not "punishment". If that had been the case, then God could have just taken Nebuchadnezzar's life. The intended lesson was stated thus,

"And they shall drive you from men,
and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field.
They shall make you eat grass like oxen;
And seven times shall pass over you,
UNTIL YOU KNOW THAT THE MOST HIGH
RULES IN THE KINGDOM OF MEN,
AND GIVES IT TO WHOMEVER HE CHOOSES."
Daniel 4:32

GOD ALWAYS HAS AN INTENDED LESSON FOR US
It is important for us to know that God always has a special intended lesson for us to learn, in life's many and varied circumstances! Whether we experience success or failure, let us take heed of God's Word. It is very real and relevant. Let us set aside time to ponder and pray over this Bible passage that we have read today.

Prayerfully,                                                                             

Pastor Charlie

First released 10th June 2001, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore