Read: Daniel 4:18-27 and Luke 18:9-14
SOAP: Daniel 4:26
“They said to leave the taproot of the tree, for your kingdom will be restored to you when you come to understand that heaven rules.”
Into the Text
It would have made sense for Daniel to ignore the request of the king to interpret his dream. After all, King Nebuchadnezzar had taken him from his family and homeland. But Daniel showed empathy and compassion for Nebuchadnezzar.
Daniel went on to describe the dream by telling the king that he was strong like the tall tree. However, God had other plans for Nebuchadnezzar. He would be cut down, taken out of society, and sent to live with the wild animals. For seven years he would live like this until he understood that God is ruler over human kingdoms.
We can easily read this and think that God is being cruel, but He is not. Instead, He is more like a loving father who is warning his child, “Unless your attitude changes, I am going to have to take away the thing you love for a while until you understand.” King Nebuchadnezzar would be humbled. It would take him the full seven years to realize that it is actually God who rules and who has given him wealth and power.
In God’s kindness, He gave Nebuchadnezzar a chance to repent. Daniel told him to stop sinning, do what was right, and show mercy to the poor. Only a God full of compassion and mercy would offer so great a gift to a harsh and wicked king like Nebuchadnezzar. Be encouraged. Your sin is never too great for the grace and salvation of Jesus Christ.
Nebuchadnezzar spent most of his life thinking about himself and his power. God knew that pride was blinding him from the truth, and it needed to be addressed.
Recognizing and being thankful for God’s grace is a great destroyer of pride. It helps us to truly see who we are in light of the cross of Jesus. God doesn’t want our achievements, accolades, or titles. He simply wants our hearts.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, creator of the universe and ruler of all. You give and you take away. All of my days are in your hands. Lord, I thank you for the many blessings and gifts you have given me. I confess there are times when I am foolishly proud when I should be humble and acknowledge your provision. Transform my proud ways that I may bring glory to you. Amen.