But God . . .

By Danny Saavedra

“Daniel replied, ‘No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you were lying in bed are these.’”—Daniel 2:27–28 (NIV)

“But . . . God . . .” Quite possibly my favorite combination of words in all of Scripture.

Matthew 19:26 (NIV, emphasis added): “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Acts 7:9 (NIV, emphasis added): “Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him.”

Romans 5:7–8 (NIV, emphasis added): “Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person . . . But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

2 Timothy 2:8–9 (NIV, emphasis added): “This is my gospel, for which I am suffering even to the point of being chained like a criminal. But God’s word is not chained.

I could go on forever. It’s a truly powerful, life-changing idea, one that gives courage and strength and confidence! But God . . .

In today’s verse, Daniel basically says that not a single man alive could do the impossible thing the king was asking. No wise man or mystic, no ideology, no idol, nor any constellation could uncover the mysteries and bring revelation and wisdom . . . “but . . . God in heaven.”

For you, it may not be a dream that needs interpreting. No matter your situation or struggle, “But God” still applies.

“I can’t beat this addiction.” But God . . .

“I have done all I can, but my marriage can’t be saved.” But God . . .

“I don’t think I can forgive this person.” But God . . .

“I’m not strong enough to fight this battle with cancer.” But God . . .

“No one loves me or accepts me.” But God . . .

“There is no going back. I can never recover from this.” But God . . .

“I have no reason to live.” But God . . .

Again, I can do this all day. Because there is not a single situation, not a single broken corner of your life or this world, not a single soul, not a single battle, fight, or storm that is beyond the reach of these two words: But God . . .

For you and me, there is a God in heaven who not only reveals mysteries, but also heals the sick, raises the dead, restores the broken, fights our battles, anchors us in the storm, gives us rest, forgives our sins, saves our souls, calls us sons and daughter, and receives us into heaven. 

This is the God we serve! 

DIG: What makes “But God” such a powerful idea? 

DISCOVER: Describe a “But God” moment in your life.

DO: Is there something in your life or the life someone right now that could use a dose of “But God”? Speak those words in faith over the situation or the person.