Day 5: Wisdom

This is the dramatic moment. Daniel stands up to interpret the king’s dream. But before he does, he makes an important point: he knows what he is about to say, not because he is especially wise, but because the Living God has revealed it to him. In effect, Daniel is trying to say that what is about to happen is proof of God, not proof of Daniel. It is that kind of humility that makes him worthy to receive the revelation. 

Daniel’s praise of God results in quite the ripple effect and transformation. Later on, we read, “King Nebuchadnezzar fell prostrate before Daniel saying, ‘Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery’” (2:47). It's not enough to just know God is powerful and reveals mysteries. That’s head knowledge. We have to believe he reveals mysteries to us too. 

It might remind you of what Paul shares about the wisdom of God in 1 Corinthians 2. Not only does God have His own way of knowing, but God has His own way of revealing. Ultimately, for us, this is the revelation of Jesus Christ in the Spirit. He shows us that the wisdom of the world – a wisdom which believes in human power – is not the true wisdom of God. Rather, God’s willingness to do mighty things through ordinary people: that is the ever-surprising wisdom of God.

Reflection Question:

1. Where do you need God’s wisdom to empower you? 

Written by Peter Hartwig, Theologian-in-Residence at National Community Church.