Text: Daniel 10:1-21

Dear Young People,

VISIONS ARE NOT COMMON EXPERIENCES
Have you come across people who speak of how they had visions of the Lord Jesus Christ? Sometimes, they speak as if they are "pals" with the Lord Jesus. They speak as if they are on a first-name basis with the Lord Jesus Christ!

How different is the way in which Daniel responded to this special vision from the Lord. Let us take note of how he felt as this special vision was given to him.

"And I, Daniel, alone saw the vision,
for the men who were with me did not see the vision;
but a great terror fell upon them, so that they fled
to hide themselves."
Daniel 10:7

Daniel was quick to acknowledge that visions were not common things that God gave to people to experience every day. Not everybody could have a vision. He noted that only he could see this vision from the Lord.

A GREAT SENSE OF AWE
Daniel went on further to write about the sense of awe that came upon him. He wrote,

"Therefore I was left alone when I saw this great vision,
and no strength remained in me; for my vigour was turned
to frailty in me, and I retained no strength.
Yet I heard the sound of his words; and while I heard
The sound of his words I was in a deep sleep on my face,
With my face to the ground."
Daniel 10:8-9

Daniel was astonished beyond words. He was absolutely awed by this vision. The glory of the Lord had a deep and profound impact upon him, as we might expect if this was a true vision from the Lord.

WE MUST GUARD OURSELVES FROM FALSE VISIONS
Let us guard ourselves from being influenced by people who speak of their having visions as if it is a common experience! Our study of the life of Daniel should teach us that we should not be enamoured of the idea of asking for visions.

Daniel did not look for a vision. He sought to understand God's Word. The Lord rewarded him with a special vision of the pre-incarnate Christ! He trembled in His presence! How well he regarded the Lord! How he feared the Lord, as he should. Let us seek to cultivate a proper regard for the Lord at all times.

Prayerfully,                                                                             

Pastor Charlie

First released 7th July 2002, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore