Text: Daniel 2:1-49
The thing that the king asks is difficult, and no one can reveal it to the king except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh” (verse 3). The Kingdom of God is coming! But it may not come in the way that you would like it to. The King is under pressure during this time because his empire is growing fast; people as always are thirsty for power. Nebuchadnezzar shows that he is insecure and demands the impossible: “first tell what I dreamt, and then interpret it for me.”
He knows that he is surrounded by typically corrupt officials seeking political influence. But the dream is so horrible that he needs real answers, and even these pagan magicians realise that only divine power can reveal the truth. This shows that politicians cannot come up with their own reality, they too rely on God alone for the truth of what lies ahead. These are issues of life and death.
One powerful dream is answered by another. Why? Because of verse 21. He
changes times and seasons; He removes kings and sets up kings; He gives
wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. Daniel blesses God because He is showing both mercy and His power to direct the history of the nations (vv.17-19). He also sees for the first time clearly why Yahweh would allow him to suffer as he did in his youth, so that now he would bring the light of truth to power. Daniel now sees his proper place in the world, as a servant of the most high God, and in so doing he also becomes an effective servant to those in power above him, and those who are vulnerable below him. Praise God for such humility!
The King is right to be afraid, for he has just been reminded of the brutal truth that all powers must face: their time is short (vv.35,44). Four successive Kingdoms that follow Nebuchadnezzar’s are revealed, but all of them will fall apart like any other. Then is the human race doomed to constant political chaos? NO! For God Himself will establish an eternal Kingdom with a power that no other can resist or stop. The stone that is mentioned here is none other than Christ! (Acts 4:11). The Kingdom of God, is indeed, coming! It is His eternal plan and the best possible thing to come for all of us! What are you doing to promote it and to be a part of its growing power and influence in the world?
Meditate on verse 11. What is God teaching you in this verse? How are you
going to apply it to your life?
Almighty Father in heaven, in the name of Jesus Christ, I prayerfully declare that You are the author of everything. Honour, power and glory belong to You alone. Amen.