Living Faithful in a Faithless Land: A Study of DanielSample

Week 2: Making a Stand for God

God of Mysteries

Read: Daniel 2:24-35; 1 Corinthians 4:1-5

SOAP: Daniel 2:28a

“However, there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and he has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in the times to come.”

Into the Text

Daniel could have easily taken credit for being so wise to learn the dream and being able to interpret it. Or, in his haste, he could have forgotten to tell King Nebuchadnezzar that it was God who revealed this great mystery!

Instead, Daniel chose to declare that no one could reveal this dream except God alone. God is the one who provides wisdom, knowledge, and insight. He revealed this mystery to Daniel so King Nebuchadnezzar would know there is a God who speaks to His servants and knows what will happen in the future. Nebuchadnezzar had to acknowledge that this God is sovereign and orders the events of history, even after he, the mighty king of Babylon, was gone.

At this point in time, King Nebuchadnezzar was hugely powerful. There was literally no one on earth with as much power as him. God reminded him, though, that his time on this earth was limited. He would not reign forever. There would be others who would come after him. Things would change.

Today, there isn’t a Babylonian empire. The town of Babylon, which is in modern-day Iraq, has been replaced with a new city. A lot has changed. Plenty of people have not even heard of King Nebuchadnezzar. Those who have only known him from the Bible!

God wanted Nebuchadnezzar to know that He alone is King of Kings. Because of this, God wanted Nebuchadnezzar to know Him, think about his actions, and live differently.

Our time on this earth is also limited. How would you like to be remembered? For being good at your job or for your church? For being the best mom or daughter? These are good, but maybe we should strive for more. Reminding ourselves that our time on this earth is short helps us refocus on the only thing that matters - what is done in the name of Jesus is the only thing that will last.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, nothing is hidden from you. O Lord, forgive me for the times I have sought my own glory rather than your glory. Lord, may I live my days wisely, faithfully, and not distracted by my achievements and the accolades of this world. May I be more interested in hearing from you. Amen.