SCRIPTURE: Daniel 2:36-49
OBSERVATION:
This story begins with God ‘defeated’ by the god of Babylon (symbolized by the temple relics placed in temple of Bel, 1:2), and His people ‘subjected’ to the king od Babylon (symbolized by Daniel, who name is changed to Belteshazzar, ie “prince of Bel”). This passage shows that God remains in charge, His servants retain their place and calling, even in a foreign land. The vision of kingdoms shows that God is establishing His Kingdom (rock cut out of the mountain) over the kingdoms of this world. Even Nebuchadnezzar recognizes that the God of Israel is “the God of gods and the Lord of kings” (v.47). This is the message God is continually revealing to all people, though they do not all understand it.
APPLICATION:
Everything that is happening in the world is a part of God’s unfolding plan to establish His authority. He is communicating through history to make the point that only His Kingdom will survive. The rise and fall and so many great kingdoms confirms this. Even when it appears that God is defeated (example Communism in Russia or China), He remains in charge and His servants, though persecuted, cannot be defeated. How does this relate to me here in Port Perry? I am an ambassador for the Lord, my task is to point people to His Lordship, through my own life and through my testimony, just like His servants did under the rule of communist governments.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for showing Yourself to so many people, especially when facing oppression and defeat. The church in communist countries is proof of that. But also here in the hedonistic West. Forgive us from compromising our faith with the wordly spirit in the West. Help us remember our calling and purpose. Amen.