Daniel: A Strong Man Is FaithfulSample

God is in Charge

Why did God give his land, people, and leader over to be enslaved by an enemy superpower? We can’t ignore Daniel’s wording here: “The Lord gave … Judah into his hand.”

When we ask a big question of God, we must keep in mind that we are seeing the situation from a narrow perspective. God has a much bigger picture and a longer view of life, events, and people than we do.

In this situation, God handed over the Israelites because God is just. He must discipline His children when they disobey- to be true to His character. The Israelites were sinful, and He promised He would punish them for their disobedience. (Consider the words of Isaiah 39:6-7.)

Sometimes, we don’t take God’s teachings, directions, and warnings seriously enough. As a result, we begin to look more and more like men of the world rather than men of God. And if we become men of the world, then God gives us over to our worldly choices to do what we want to do (see Romans 1:21–32).

Though the king of Babylon was the instrument used to carry the Israelites into exile, God was the one in charge. That’s how Daniel saw it and how he told the story. Do you know why? Because a redeemed man who lives by a biblical worldview knows that God is behind all things. A strong man is faithful to believe this, and he is entirely comfortable with God being in charge.

In Israel’s change of circumstance, we learn two things. First, God is always in control, regardless of the challenges we face. Second, He is looking for faithful men everywhere, whether we live in Jerusalem or Babylonia, so to speak. The question I have for you today is this: Are you that man, and do you trust that kind of God?

ASK THIS: If a stranger looked at your words, actions, and decisions today, would he or she believe you were putting your hope in God and his salvation? Why or why not?

DO THIS: Trust that God is directing your life today.

PRAY THIS: God, help me to trust no one but you! Amen.