Government Versus God

O. T. #1992  "Government Versus God"

July 30, 2021

Daniel 6-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Do you feel like you are in a den of lions, loudly roaring and showing sharp teeth, ready to pounce? Sometimes we feel like we are surrounded by lions that are liars. I call them lying lions.That is when we should ask God to shut their mouths. People tend to jump on the wagon of criticism without knowing the whole story or hearing it from only one side. Didn't that happen to Daniel?

Today's lesson is probably familiar to most of us. But do we know why Daniel was thrown into the den of hungry lions? Daniel had not done anything wrong, but he had done what was right in God's sight, praying 3 times a day.

King Darius was considering promoting Daniel to the highest official in the Mede-Persian empire. Daniel had interpreted what the handwriting on the wall meant, as God revealed to him. All of this should have brought cheers from the other government officials, but it did not. It triggered jealousy and envy among them. After all, Daniel was a foreigner, wasn't he?

Now Daniel possessed an extraordinary spirit of excellent attitude, was faithful in his work, and was characterized by personal purity. The government officials looked for a fault in Daniel's public or private life, were unable to find one, consulted together, so they initiated a plan that would pit Daniel's religious convictions against the Medo-Persian government. (verses 5-6) Since Daniel faithfully obeyed their laws, there had to be a new law made.

Then they presented it to the king. We find it in verse 7: ... they consulted together to establish a royal statute, and to make a firm decree, that whomsoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days, save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions.

That is their strategy to get rid of Daniel, a godly witness, so one of their corrupt co-workers could replace him power. (Were they skimming off the top of the bank?)

King Darius signed the new law, so it could not be changed nor revoked. These schemers had Daniel, once and for all, so they thought. No one was allowed to pray to anyone, divine or human, except to the king. Oooo, they set the king up as a god. What an ego stroking law. What pagan king would refuse that honor?

Unfortunately, people are punished for acting righteously, while others are rewarded for sinning.

Charles Swindoll says in his Bible study guide, Daniel this for us to consider:

We will seldom receive what we deserve from people. So we should learn not to expect it. We will always receive what is best from God. Although it may not be according to our timetable, God will always supply us with what we need. So we should not doubt Him. Our ability to handle human injustice and divine goodness is directly related to consistency of our walk with God.

They did not know that our God is a way maker, a miracle worker, and a promise keeper. That is who our God is. 

 

LET IT GROW

Daniel knew about the new law that prohibited his praying to God and not to the king.  Yet, Daniel continued his routine of praying three times a day to the Most High God in his house, opening his windows toward Jerusalem, kneeling, giving thanks before his God. (verse 10)

Daniel knew he had to obey God, no matter what man might command or how much he might stand to lose personally by such actions (his life). He would not disobey God in order to please the king, like Daniel's three friends that survived the king's hotter-than- blazes fiery furnace.

What do we do when confronted with a decision to disobey a human law in order to maintain obedience to God?

Peter answered that question in Acts 5:29, We ought to obey God rather than men.

We are always to obey the laws of our government unless they obviously conflict with something God has clearly commanded us to do in His Word. We don't know what the future holds for us. We may be called upon to face this dilemma. Will we continue our devotion God or not?

 

LET IT GO

Almighty God, You alone are sovereign and in control.

Keep us in Your will, committed to serving only You, God.

Even if death is a result of our commitment, so be it.

May You receive glory from our life, Merciful God.

Right by Faith

O. T. #1992 "Right by Faith"

July 29. 2021

Daniel 6

LET IT GLOW

There was a new king in the land. The Medes and Persians conquered Babylon and established Darius' authority by changing the government. He placed 120 princes throughout the new kingdom, with 3 presidents over them. Daniel was promoted to chief overseer, president, over the whole realm. Those administrators were to protect the king's interests. Since Daniel was more  capable than all the other high officers, the king made plans to place him over the entire empire.

What qualities did Daniel have?

• He had age on his side, for by this time Daniel was in his 80's. He had seen a lot, good and bad.
• He was experienced. Nebuchadnezzar had promoted Daniel after explaining the dream about the statue the king had.
• He was completely trustworthy, even while living among a heathen nation and people.
• Daniel is described by the king Darius as having an excellent spirit. (verse 3)
• Darius was planning to make Daniel his number-one administrator over the entire kingdom. (verse 3)

What does our track record say about us? Do we have a good reputation as a Christian, upholding biblical principles in our life? Are we trustworthy? Can our employer trust us to give a full day's work or waste time? As an employer, are we being  faithful to give to our employees or do we demand too much?

LET IT GROW

Again, jealousy and envy raise their ugly heads. The other presidents and princes began searching for some occasion (silliness; folly; foolishness) in Daniel. However, there was no ungodly deed or foolish action found in Daniel. He was handling government affairs without faults. He was faithful, always responsible, and completely trustworthy. No fault or error was found concerning Daniel. (verse 4)

Daniel is included with Noah and Job as having outstanding godly living as Ezekiel 14:14 said. Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job were in it (sinful land), they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord God.

The Tony Evans Bible Commentary explains:

Those 3 Old Testament mean accomplished much for God by faith. They were 3 of the greatest examples  of faith and godly favor, nevertheless, their righteousness could not protect such a wicked land. It is by the righteousness of Christ that sinners are saved. Anyone who trusts in Christ as his sin-bearer, is granted a righteousness that is not his own-the righteousness from God based on faith. (Philippians 3:9)

Righteousness means rightness; justice; virtue; right act in Ezekiel 14:14; and it is equity; justification found in Philippians 3:9.

So Noah and his family were saved when they believed God was going to flood the whole earth and built an ark in obedience, then became heir of the righteousness which is by faith. (Hebrews 11:7)

Daniel and Job are included as "one of the prophets," in Hebrews 11:32-33, 36).

Folks, it is not our righteousness but that of Jesus Christ which covers us because our righteousness is as filthy rags. It is our faith in Jesus and His life-sacrifice on the cross for our sins that makes us right with a Holy God. How strong is our faith in God? Are we willing to endure cruel mockings? Can our faith stop the mouths of lions?

LET IT GO

Father, burn off the sin in our life so we are pleasing to You.

It's Your breath in our lungs so we pour out our praise to You, Most High God.

Our hearts cry and our bones sing, Great are You Lord!

That Very Night Change Came

O. T. #1991 "That Very Night Change Came"

July 28, 2021

Daniel 5-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

That very night... How quickly things can change, circumstances can turn around. We must wait on the Lord for His timing and stay faithful to Him.

Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall for Belshazzar to mean his days and his kingdom's days were numbered by God and expired,;he was found lacking in spiritual matters; and Babylon was divided, given over to the Medes and Persians.

Looking at the last three verses, we find:

• After Daniel interpreted the handwriting on the wall, Belshazzar commanded that Daniel be dressed in purple robes and a gold chain hung around his neck.
• The king proclaimed Daniel to be the third highest ruler in the Babylonian kingdom.
• That very night Belshazzar was slain.
• Then Darius the Mede took over the kingdom of Babylon at the age of 62.

 

God was faithful to Daniel throughout his captivity. God keeps His Word, too. In Nebuchadnezzar's dream of the metal image, the head was made of gold (Babylon) and the breast and arms of silver (Medeo-Persian), but were smashed by the stone (Jesus Christ). So the Babylonian kingdom fell, just as was predicted.

When it is in God's timing, all the mighty kingdoms in our world will fall. Then Jesus will come as King over all peoples and governments, establishing His reign. He is Savior and Redeemer, awaiting that time. It is better for us to bow our knee to King Jesus now before we meet Him in our death. Have you? God keeps His Word.

LET IT GROW

"Our good historian, John MacArthur, has this to say about that night,

"One ancient account alleged that Persia's General Ugbaru had troops dig a trench to divert and, thus, lower the waters of the Euphrates River. Since the river flowed through the city of Babylon, the lowered water enabled besiegers to unexpectedly invade via the waterway under the thick walls and reach the palace before the city was aware. The end then came quickly, as guards, Belshazzar, and others were killed in 539 B.C."

Matthew Henry said that Cyrus was the nephew of Darius, and was given the presidency. Other commentators say "Darius" was a title for Cyrus or another name for Cyrus, king of all Persia. It is not clear in the historical records. At any rate, Daniel was not killed during the invasion. God had protected him. He had some prophesies to do and 7 more chapters to write.

God can raise us up and give us special assignments to do for His kingdom work. Just because we have gray hairs and are in the senior category, we can still be effective in God's work.

LET IT GO

Stay faithful to our God and He will reward us in due time.

Keep us in Your will, Father.

Bless those who read this today.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just Three Words That Changed Everything"

O. T. #1990  "Just Three Words That Changed Everything" 

July 27, 2021

Daniel 5-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Do we watch our words? In today's lesson just three words changed everything for a king and his kingdom.

Finally, today we get Daniel in the room. Belshazzar had a banquet, where he and guests used the sacred vessels of Jerusalem's Temple to drink wine from them. Also, they were praising their gods of gold, silver, brass, iron, wood, and stone. (What an insult to the Most High God!) That same hour fingers of a man's handwrote on the wall for all to see. This resulted in Bel being troubled and knees knock together in fright.

Well, his grandmother, the queen, told Bel there was a man who could tell the king what those words meant-Daniel. (After his magicians could not do so.) She explained how wise Daniel was, interpreting dreams.

Belshazzar told Daniel, "I have heard of thee," when Daniel was brought into the room. The king offered Daniel gifts and rewards in exchange for the meaning of the handwriting on the wall. Then in verses 18-21, Daniel recounted the experience of humility of Nebuchadnezzar. (He became mentally out of it and lived like an animal.) He had hardened his mind in pride and took glory from God. Finally, Neb knew that God ruled in the kingdoms of men and He appoints over them whomsoever He will. (verse 21)

Daniel rebuked the king, not afraid to tell the truth to him:

• You knew all about Nebuchadnezzar, have not humbled yourself.
• You have proudly defied the Lord of heaven drinking wine from the cups from His Temple while praising the gods.
• You have not honored the God who gives you the breath of life and controls your destiny! (verses 22-24)

Do we give honor to the God who controls our destiny? Since I have almost died several times, I try to always daily give thanks and praise to my Merciful God for the beats of my heart and breath of life. What about you, friend?

Praise the Lord from the heavens, praise Him in the heights above. (Psalm 148:1) 

Are  we careful how we use what is God's?

 

LET IT GROW

The handwriting on the wall, written in Aramic, were the words:

• Mene means numbered.
• Tekel means to balance; be weighed.
• Upharsin means to split up; divided.

Daniel did not interpret the words in terms of money, but to convey a warning to the king and Babylon. The king himself was weighed by God and found wanting or lacking, so his days were numbered and finished. His kingdom was going to be divided among the Medes and Persians, two nations of force. (verses 25-28)

The king kept his word and gave Daniel royal red clothing, a gold chain about his neck, and a promotion to the third ruler in power in the Babylonian kingdom.

History tells us that Babylon fell to the Medes and Persians. In fact, that very night that Daniel gave the king his warning, Belshazzar was slain and Daniel's promotion was of no value.

Darius the Median reigned in Babylon and had his own agenda.

Are we willing to stand for the truth and tell the truth, no matter the consequences? Do we share God's Word as truth?

Dear one, we are always coming up short when compared to Jesus. However, since we are not perfect and we sin, we have One who is perfect and paid the price for our salvation, His very life. He loves us that much and wants us to come to repentance of our sins, trusting in Jesus as Savior. Then our reward awaits us in heaven.

 

LET IT GO

May we not forget the Word of God and loose everything.

Lord God, we don't know everything, but we are trusting in You, for You know all things.

May we not waste today's opportunities.

Our very life and breath is held in Your hands.

Glory to God in the Highest, the Most High God, forever and ever.

Be Useful Right Where You Are

O. T. #1989  "Be Useful Right Where You Are"

July 26, 2021

Daniel 5-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

There is a thread that runs through our Scriptures today and it is in the form of one word. Read verses 11-14 and see if you can find it. (Definitions provided below can help.)

So the Queen Mother, who was probably Belshazzar's grandmother, knew who could interpret dreams because he had done some years earlier for King Nebuchadnezzar. What a reputation Daniel had made (or rather God made). She described Daniel as a man in the kingdom in whom the spirit of the holy gods (which should have read Almighty God) was within him. Previously, Daniel had insight, understanding, and wisdom like that of the gods (which should have been the One True God). Neb had promoted Daniel chief over all the Babylonian wise men, magicians after he interpreted Neb's dreams. Daniel had a track record. (His faithfulness to God had been rewarded.)

Look at this, these words are used by a pagan to describe Daniel (some are multiple times in verses 11-14):

•  excellent (preeminent, very exceeding) spirit (mind, spirit, wind)  (verse 12) and wisdom (verse 14);
• knowledge (wisdom or intelligence; reason; understanding) (verse 12)
• light (illumination; wisdom) (verses 11,14)
• understanding (intelligence) verses 11, 12, 14)
• wisdom (verses 11, 14)
• interpret dreams
• explain riddles
• solve difficult problems. (NLT)

Did you find the word? It is wisdom. Do we have the wisdom of God? Are we sharing that wisdom with others?

Call for Daniel and he will tell you what the writing means. That was grandmother's advice based on past experiences, a track record, and abilities of Daniel.

What kind of reputation do we have with others, out in the world, and within our family? Are we known as a follower of Jesus? Do we have wisdom from God that He can use to help others?

Wisdom, especially spiritual wisdom, is not just about knowing what's good for you, but applying that knowledge into your everyday life... When you do that, this is when you know that you are truly wise. (Shellie Warren, 2017)

In 2 Chronicles 1:11-12, Solomon asked for only wisdom and knowledge for himself so he could judge God's people that he served over as king in Israel.

Are we sharing the knowledge, light, and understanding of God's Word? Is the Holy Spirit giving us wisdom to apply those in our life?

LET IT GROW

After the usual introductions, Belshazzar repeated his generous offer to the man who could make known the writing on the wall-Daniel. The king's astrologers were brought in, but could not read those words nor interpret their meanings. Bel was anxious for the answer. (Recall that he was troubled and his countenance changed during the banquet.) Daniel had been in Babylon most of his life, so keep that in mind. He continued to serve his God all his life, wherever he was.

God wants to use us right where we are. Daily we come in contact with people who never enter a church, speak with a pastor, or open a Bible. God wants to use us to point them to Christ. You and I may be the "bridge" that He would use to bring them to Himself. Be alert for opportunities to share the Good News of Christ's love with others. (Billy Graham)

Be very careful to... serve Him with all your heart and all your soul.  (Joshua 22:5)

 

LET IT GO

Mold us, use us, be with us today, Jesus.

You have parted seas, walked on water, delivered your children from the fire, lions, and death.

Use us to help deliver souls from eternal death.

Jesus, be our hope, our love, and our joy today.

What Makes Us Wise Parents and Grandparents?

O. T. #1988  "What Makes Us Wise Parents and Grandparents?"

July 23, 2021

Daniel 5-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Does this sound familiar? The king had a dream that none of his wise men/magicians could recount and interpret. This happened to Belshazzar, grandson of Nebuchadnezzar. He was desperate to know what the handwriting on the wall meant. It had troubled him, changed his countenance, and caused his knees to knock.

What rewards did Belshazzar offer to the one who could read this writing and explain it to him?

• clothed in scarlet;
• have a chain of gold about his neck;
• become the third ruler in the Babylonian kingdom.

This person would be dressed in purple robes of royal honor, have a gold chain to wear around his neck, and become the third highest ruler there. Wow! Belshazzar meant business, didn't he? When his wise men could not meet the requirements of such rewards, the king turned pale. His nobles were shaken up, too.

Desperate times call for desperate measures. Belshazzar was desperate. This situation was beyond his power and wisdom. (That is because God was in charge.)

What do we do when we become desperate? Who do we turn to for guidance? Is it God or friends, family, pastor?

Paul ended his letter to the church at Rome, To God only wise, be glory through Jesus Christ for ever. (Rom. 16:27)

Paul wrote in his first letter  to Timothy, Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. (1 Tim. 1:17)

Psalm 111:10 tells us, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments: His praise endureth forever.

Tony Evans explains the fear of the Lord: To take God seriously is the foundation of wisdom. To be wise is to have a clear understanding of how to obey God's commands in specific situations. Exercising such wisdom leads us to experience God at a deeper level, which should lead to even more praise.

Since God is the only One all wise, so if we seek to be a wise person, then we should seek His wisdom. Are we today relying on God's wisdom in a particular situation?

LET IT GROW

Here comes the answer for Belshazzar. The queen mother, Belshazzar's grandmother, heard what happened and rushed into the banquet room. What wise instruction did she give her grandson?

• Don't be so pale and frightened.
• There is a man in your kingdom who has within him the spirit of the holy gods.
• During Nebuchadnezzar's reign, this man was found to have insight, understanding, and wisdom like that of the gods.
• Neb made him chief over all the magicians, enchanters, astrologers, and fortune-tellers of Babylon.  
• This man Daniel, whom the king named Belteshazzar, has exceptional ability and is filled with divine knowledge and understanding. He can interpret dreams, explain riddles, and solve difficult problems.
• Call for Daniel, and he will tell you what the writing means. (New Living Translation, verses 10-12)

Grandmother had the answer. She recalled the abilities of Daniel, under God, to give the answer to the strange mystery on the wall. Daniel had explained to King Neb what his dreams were and meant (metal statue and tree). Daniel gave glory to God for his ability, that was given by the Almighty God, the Most High God of the Jews.

Are we a wise grandparent or parent for our children? Do we seek the All-Wise God for answers to our situation? He is the key.

LET IT GO

Our God is still the same God that gave Daniel wisdom and the three Hebrews faith for deliverance from the fiery furnace. He never changes.

Why do we try to figure out a solution to a problem on our own? (Guilty)

I will trust You Lord and fear no more.

You are my courage and strength, God.

I will trust You Lord and fear no more.

Handwriting on the Wall

O. T. #1987  "Handwriting on the Wall"

July 21, 2021

Daniel 5-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Belshazzar was king who had a feast for a thousand of his people. In ancient times, their feasts were extremely large, and in many cases they were sensual events with drunkenness. The thing is, he brought out vessels of gold, silver, and brass to use. This was sacrilege in their use because those were sacred vessels taken from Solomon's Temple and used in the idolatry worship of the gods of gold. (They were polytheistic.) (verses 3-4) Sounds like pride of the king came out with the vessels, as though bragging what Neb had done to Jerusalem. Self-indulgence, exploiting of wealth and splendor is what happened. Plus using valuable consecrated vessels used in the House of God were used as common drinking cups while praising false gods of Babylon.

That same hour, a supernatural occurrence happened that cause this king's knees to knock. Look at verse 5:

In the same hour came forth fingers of a man's hand, and wrote over against the candlestick upon the plaster of the wall of the king's palace: and the king saw the part of the hand that wrote.

This is why folks say they saw the handwriting on the wall. Can you image the quietness that came over the attendees and royalty  as a human hand appeared writing on a wall lit up by a candlestick. What an awesome sight it must have been! All would have stared in amazement and perhaps fright at the unique event.

Are we amazed when God does something supernatural in our life or those around us? Do we recognized it as God working? What has He done lately in your life?

LET IT GROW

Assuming Belshazzar knew of Nebuchadnezzar's humiliation at the hands of God (chapter 4), he certainly hadn't learned from it. Rather, he showed his contempt for God's holy vessels by treating them like bar mugs. From God's perspective, this move was the last straw. The king literally lost control of his bowels, out of fear. (Evans) 

Did you notice the reaction that Belshazzar had?

Then the king's countenance was changed, and his thoughts troubled him, so that the joints of his loins were loosed, and his knees smote one against another. (Verse 6)

Have you ever been so angry that your blood pressure rose to an extremely high amount and you almost had a heart attack or stroke? Anxiety takes over. Or maybe you got so upset that you froze and experienced everything shutting down in a panic attack? I have and that is when you must separate yourself from the cause so you survive. Breathe deeply and call out to Jesus, walking away. God can rescue and restore us in our time of need.

LET IT GO

Pray while amidst the trying time.

Let God give you a wall of protection from the degrading and harmful words or actions of others.

God is the strength of my heart. My portion forever. (Psalm 73:26b) 

A Dose of Humility

O. T. #1986  "A Dose of Humility"

July 20, 2021

Daniel 4-Part 5

Now I Nebuchadnezzar praise and extol, and honor the King of heaven, all Whose works are truth, and His ways judgment: and those that walk in pride He is able to abase. (verse 37)

LET IT GLOW

In this chapter, we have seen the agitation, interpretation, exhortation, humiliation, and restoration around the life of King Neb. (Wiersbe's points)

In spite of all that God gave king Nebuchadnezzar and raising his to be the most powerful empire in the world at his time, he still attributed his prosperity, power, and fame to his own abilities and wisdom, not from God. The thing is, all those years of Daniel being a godly counselor and the witness of those faithful three Hebrews who were rescued from the fiery furnace, Neb was not humbled to the point of surrender to the Almighty, Most High God. Yet, is there any sinner that God cannot subdue?

After 7 years of eating grass like an animal, growing nails like a bird's claw and hair like an eagle's feathers, his mental disorder was in God's hands. Then finally, Neb declared:

• praise, honor, blessing upon the Most High;
• the One who lives forever, has dominion that is everlasting in His kingdom throughout all generations;
• His rule is everlasting and His kingdom is eternal; (verse 34)
• compared to Him, all the people of the earth are nothing;
• He does as He pleases among the angels of heaven and the people of the earth;
• No one can stop God or question what He does; (verse 35)
• praise and honor and glory to the King of heaven;
• God restored Neb ads king, having greater honor than before; (verse 36)
• all His acts are just and true;
• He is able to humble the proud. (verse 37)

 Will you join Neb in praising the One and Only God to be worshiped, honored, and praised? The only way we can come to Him is through believing faith in Jesus Christ. Have you humbled yourself before Him yet?

One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God. We can do it now or in judgment when it is too late. 

LET IT GROW

 ... those that walk in pride He is able to abase. (verse 37)

In the Hebrew language, the word abase means humble, put down, subdue.

In Philippian 4:12-13, Paul declared, I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need. I can do all things through Christ which strentheneth me.

Here, abase means to humiliate (in condition or heart); bring low.

What will it take for us and others to be abase? Nothing is impossible with God (Luke 1:37)

Do we have a humble heart? Will we submit to God's will and not the will of our flesh?

Just look at what He did to bring the most powerful ruler on earth down to the point of admitting he was not a god, but Almighty God is and is in control over all. Simply ask Jesus to forgive your sins and to be your Savior. It is not by works or who we are or what we can do, but by faith.

LET IT GO

Praise and glory to Jesus Christ who gave His life so He could save my soul and your soul!

We serve a God that specializes in the impossible.

What Gets Your Attention?

O. T. #1987  "What Gets Your Attention?"

July 22, 2021

Daniel 5

LET IT GLOW

What gets your attention? What has God used lately to turn your eyes and heart to Him? Lately, for me it has been the death of our preacher friend, our children, my medications not being covered by our new insurance. I come to realize once again, God is in control, life is short, and nothing is impossible with Him as I pray. God got the attention of a king in today's lesson. Read on to learn what unusual method He used.

Let's take a break and look at the kings who ruled Babylon before the Medes and Persians took over:

• Nebuchadnezzar, 604-562 BC
• Neb's son, Evil-Merodach, reigned 2 years
• Neb's brother in law, Neriglissar, killed Merodach, and ruled 4 years
• Labashi-Marduk, reigned 2 months
• Nabonidus, reigned 556-539 BC (married Neb's daughter and was father of Belshazzar)
• Belshazzar, was the crown prince of the city of Babylon, was killed when Persia captured it in 539 BC)

Belshazzar was second in charge of such the mighty kingdom of Babylon, a prince, while his father was Nabonidus was king. Belshazzar stayed at home

Keep in mind that Daniel was getting on in years by this time. Some say he lived to be 85 and most of his life in a foreign nation of Babylon. (70 years)

How hard would that be? Knowing your nation (Israel), city (Jerusalem), and the Temple (Solomon built) were destroyed. Yet, God kept Daniel alive and used him to interpret dreams of Neb and the handwriting on the wall.

The Lord brings the counsel of the nations to nothing; He makes the plans of the peoples of no effect. The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plans of His heart to all generations. (Psalm 33:10-11)

Do we see how God has a purpose for our life, also? The will of God is going to be done, no matter what. Our job is to trust Him.

LET IT GROW

We pick up the story at a great feast party. Belshazzar had a great banquet, displaying their wealth and splendor. The Babylonian had taken the sacred vessels from Solomon's Temple that were used in worshiping God. Bel used those vessels of gold, silver, and bronze to drink wine from like they were common drinking cups. They were praising the false gods of Babylon during this event. We notice this powerful man's indifference and irreverence for Almighty God. When people defy the will of God and blaspheme His name, He allows it only so long and then the hand of the Lord begins to move.

Without warning, the fingers of a human hand appeared writing a message on a wall of the banquet. What amazement and fear came. The message was a miracle from the God of Israel that the idols of Babylon could never accomplish.

Where else had God used this technique? In Israel's history, this finger of God:

• defeated the Egyptians when Pharaoh refused to let His people go free; (Exodus 8:19) 
• wrote the holy law for Israel on stones; (Ex. 31:18)
• cast out demons with Jesus in Luke 11:20.

The finger of God was writing a warning to the leaders of Babylon because He would soon execute judgment upon them. Here was a king of a city that could not control this moving finger. Maybe he could at least understand what the message meant. His wise men were commanded to come explain the message. He offered honors and royal gifts to the one who explained the message.

God definitely got the attention of this ruler. How does God get your attention? Loosing a job, family, finances? 

LET IT GO

Open our eyes Lord Jesus, so we see Your working.

Touch our heart today.

Lead us on Your path for our life.

Jesus, only You are King of kings and Lord of lords.

We seek You will for Your glory.

From Grass Eater to God Praiser

O. T. #1985  "From Grass Eater to God Praiser"

July 19, 2021

Daniel 4-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

When the time came, Neb's pride was not humbled in repentance, so his punishment was for his kingdom to be taken from him. What else occurred to the great king of Babylon? (Verses 28-33)

• He was driven from human society.
• He lived in the fields with the wild animals.
• He ate grass like a cow.
• This continued for 7 periods of time, 7 years, I think.
• Until Neb learned the Most High God rules over kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone He chooses/whomsoever He will.
• The prideful king was driven  from human society.
• Also, he was drenched with dew.
• He lived this way until his hair was as long as eagles' feathers and his nails like birds' claws.

Did you know that it could take up to a year for a toenail to grow back when it is lost. My husband dropped an object on one of his toenails and it took about that long for it to grow back. so for Neb's nails to grow long like an eagle's, it could take up to 7 years.

How much grass do we have to eat before we realize God is in charge? And admit He is Sovereign King? It took 7 years before Neb's mind, heart, and body stopped living like a wild donkey. He could have been destroyed, but God wanted this king to tell the world what God had done for him so His name could be glorified among the nations. God used a pagan king for His purposes.

LET IT GROW

Neb was delivered from his mental illness and sanity was restored to him when his understanding returned to him.  In verse 34, Neb declares the eternality and sovereignty of God's dealings with him and others:

At the end of the days I Nebuchadnezzar lifted up mine eyes unto heaven, and mine understanding returned unto me, and I blessed the Most High, and I praised and honored Him that liveth for ever, whose dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation.

What was the first things this humbled king did?

1. He praised the Lord, the Most High God.
2. He acknowledged the sovereignty of God.
3. He gave a joyful witness to all the people of the marvelous grace of God. (Wiersbe)

Doesn't it sound like Nebuchadnezzar was converted? Not only was his reasoning returned, but his honor and throne. also.

LET IT GO

Help us be recognize when people, possessions, pride, and status try to take Your place, Jesus.

May we relax in Your peaceful presence today.

Renew our minds with Your Word.

You alone are Creator, God, Sustainer, Savior, and Redeemer.

Make us alive with Holy Spirit.

Honor, glory, and praise belong to only God and Jesus.

Pride and Punishment

O. T. #1984  "Pride and Punishment"

July 16, 2021

Daniel 4-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

King Neb had his second dream from God. And a second time his magicians could not tell what it was and its meaning. So Daniel was brought in to do it. Here is his interpretation:

• The tree is Nebuchadnezzar; he had grown strong and great.
• His greatness reached heaven and ruled to the ends of the earth.
• The messenger from heaven said to cut down the tree and destroy it, leaving the stump and roots in the ground.
• Bound with a band of iron and bronze and surrounded by tender grass.
• Let him be drenched with dew; then for 7 years let him live with the animals.
• He would get his kingdom back when Neb learned the Most High  rules over the kingdoms of the world and gives them to anyone He chooses.

Daniel warned the king to stop sinning and do what is right; Also, to break from your past and be merciful to the poor. The thing is, Neb was not in control, nor the ruler over the world; he was not god, for Almighty God is. Pride kept him from admitting that. At that time, Neb did not repent and throw himself on the mercy of God.

Do we surrender to God as ruler over our life? Is pride controlling us?

LET IT GROW

God showed Neb grace, allowing 12 months to pass before His judgment of the king's arrogance came. (verse 29) He was now old and had reigned about 40 years as king.

The king spake and said, Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for the house of the kingdom by the might of my power, and for the honor of my majesty?(verse 30)

Sounds like he had an "I" problem.  After that happened, a voice from heaven told Neb that his kingdom was departed from him. (verse 31) Immediately, he was struck with a form of madness, causing him to behave and live like an animal.

Wow! Had the king's pride reached its peak or what? Do we allow our accomplishments to cause us to forget God? Pride is one of the sins that God hates, among the listings in Proverbs 6.

When pride comes, then comes shame; but with the humble is wisdom. (Prov. 11:2)

God resists the proud but gives grace to the humble. (James 4:6)

 

LET IT GO

Heavenly Father, You alone own all things.

We are only here by Your amazing grace and mercy.

You allow us to have and use all that we have.

Our righteousness is filthy rags, so cover us with the righteousness of Jesus Christ.

Make us new.

Rule in our hearts and lives so we give You glory.

 

A Tree and a Ruler

O. T. #1983  "A Tree and a Ruler"

July 15, 2021

Daniel 4-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

King Nebuchadnezzar of the Babylonian empire had his first dream given by God about the great image  that was brought down by the stone. It illustrated the world's mighty empires ruling throughout the ages would eventually be brought down by other conquerors. Finally, Jesus Christ will come and reign over His kingdom for a thousand years on earth. Now, the king was troubled by this dream before he learned its meaning through Daniel. (chapter 2)

In this chapter, Neb has a second dream, which terrified him: (verse 5)

• A very tall tree grew very tall and strong, reaching high into the heavens for all the world to see. (verse 11)
• It had fresh green leaves and loaded with fruit for all to eat. So birds nested in its branches and wild animals lived in its shade. All the world was fed from this tree. (verse 12)
•  Then an watcher (an angel-as guardian) came down from heaven and gave directions. (verse 13)
• Cut down the tree and his branches; shake off his leaves; scatter his fruit; let the beasts and fowls get away from under it. (verse 14)
• But leave a stump and roots in the ground, binding it with a band of iron and bronze, surrounded by tender grass; let him be drenched with the dew and live with the animals among the plants of the field.  (verse 15) 
• For 7 periods of time let his heart (mind; understanding; heart) be changed of a wild animal instead of a human. (verse 16)

Did you pick up on the phrases "cut down, shake off, and scatter?"  What do we need cut, shaken, and scattered in our life by God? I do not want anything to be more important in my life  than God and Jesus.

Don't hold anything so tightly that it hurts when God takes it away. That includes houses, jobs, people.

LET IT GROW

What was the purpose of this decree and dream? We find the answer in verse 17:

... to the intent that the living may know that the Most High ruleth in the kingdom of men, and giveth it to whomsoever He will, and setteth up over it the basest of men.

Do we stop to think about our God being the Most High God, who overrules man's kingdoms and His superiority is over all so-called gods? His sovereign rule is above governments, businesses, and religious leaders in this world. this includes His sovereign rule over all of our plans and desires.

The challenge today for us is: will we yield to God's sovereign rule over our life, our plans and desires, details, jobs, where we attend worship services, and sharing His Word, salvation, and love? Who rules us? God or us?

LET IT GO

Heavenly Father, The Most High God, please come and rule over our lives, our hearts, our desires.

Change our hearts today.

Your will, Your way, today, always, I pray. Work on me, so I will be....

Who is the Most High to You?

O. T. #1982  "Who is The Most High to You?"

July 14, 2021

Daniel 4

LET IT GLOW

You know, it is through the grace of God and His mercies that are new every morning that we are alive. He is such a good, good Father. That is who He is. And we are loved by God. He is perfect in all of His ways. If you are like me, we need God everyday and breathe because of Him. Yet we are sinners in need of His forgiveness all the time. And all the time, God is good.

Haven't we covered so much in just three chapters? So many visions and dreams, faith declared, and the working of our God for His faithful children. Daniel and his friends were the first group of Jews to be deported to Babylon.

In review:

•  Daniel determined in his heart to be true to his God and God was faithful to His obedient children. They remained strong, even when refusing the king's food, probably offered to idols.(chapter 1)
• When king Nebuchadnezzar had a troubling dream, his magicians could not tell him details nor its meaning. Daniel disclosed the details of the dream, its meaning, and gave glory to God for the revelation. Then Daniel was promoted. (chapter 2)
• Then everyone was commanded to bow to the golden image, a huge idol. Daniel's three friends refused, fearing only God. Being cast into the fiery furnace that was heated 7 times hotter as punishment, they were joined by Jesus walked around in the furnace with them, and were not harmed because of their faithfulness. King Neb was astonished as he saw this and proclaimed a new decree that no one was to speak anything against their God, least they be killed and their household. (chapter 3) 

Do we stand for Jesus when others fall down to idols? When we are in the  fire of affliction, do we turn to Jesus to be with us? Do others see our faith in what we say and do (for the glory of God)? Are we made new daily by Jesus, our Savior? Do we declare His deliverance, healing of broken hearts, restoration of our testimony? 

LET IT GROW

Now in chapter 4, king Neb has another dream, which was about a tree. There could have been a passing of 20-30 years between chapters 3 and 4. The king sent a message to all the people throughout the world:

• Peace and prosperity to you!
• I want you to know about the miraculous signs and wonders the Most High God has performed for me.
• How great are His signs, how powerful His wonders! His kingdom will last forever, His rule through all generations.

What a declaration for a pagan king, one who worshiped false gods and idols. Did you know that the phrase, the Most High, appears 13 times in Daniel?

The title refers to God's ability to overrule man's kingdoms and His superiority over all so called gods. He learned this the hard way. God taught Nebuchadnezzar that His kingdom agenda sovereignly rules over all. (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

Profession does not always mean possession. King Neb still did not believer in Daniel's God completely or submit to Him alone. (verse 8) He had respect for Daniel, yet he had his own god, Marduk, the head of all Babylonian gods.

Do we see and experience the powerful wonders of God and His great signs to us? Do He perform great wonders for us to behold? Look around at what we call nature. God has created all things, controls all things, plus plans and carries them out for His glory and our good. Gravity of the moon causes the sea edges to not flood. Winds and seas obey Him. He decrees life and death. Do we recognize God is sovereignly controlling all? 

People may attend church services and use spiritual language, but they may not really honor God with their lives. How well does our obedience match up with our beliefs?

 

LET  IT GO

Thank You Father, we can trust You will, Your Word, You ways to be the best, not ours.

When Things Get Hot Around Us

O. T. #1981  "When Things Get Hot Around Us"

July 13, 2021

Daniel 3-Part 5

Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, and spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the Most High God, come forth, and come hither. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. (verse 26)

LET IT GLOW

The king who sent the three Hebrews into the fiery furnace called them out. The king who attempted to break and remove their confidence and faith in their God, was unsuccessful. What a testimony of faith and obedience those guys had in Babylon. The princes, governors, captains, and king's counselors gathered together and saw the three men after this event.

Upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was a hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. (verse 27)

Those officials were eye witnesses of the miracle Jesus had performed before their very eyes. The three had previously given all of themselves to God, including their body and soul, yielded to the True Living Savior. What was a deadly fire proved to be nothing but a walk in the park, so to speak, and a walk with Jesus. I think it was Jesus Himself who showed up instead of sending His angel.

Do we walk and talk with Jesus while we are in the fire of affliction? Do we fear God more than a furnace? Even if God has decided to let us burn or carry scares, He is always with His children. Do we prefer to serve the Living God than to bow to a dead idol?  Will we prefer death over being unfaithful to God? Are we prepared to do so? Are we willing to violate laws and risk our life rather than serve a pagan god?

LET IT GROW

Then Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent His angel, and delivered His servants that trusted in Him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God.  (verse 28)

In verse 25, the king declared the fourth person in the fire was like the Son of God. Now he calls it an angel. Either way, the king changed his law, making a new decree found in verse 29:

Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort.

The king prohibited anyone from speaking against the Hebrew God throughout his empire. Those three men were rewarded with advancement in the administration of the province of Babylon. (verse 30) What an advancement for the Hebrew community.

It has been estimated that more Christians have been killed for their faith during the last one hundred years than in all the other centuries combined since the time of Christ. One reason is the great expansion of Christianity in the last few centuries-often into places of great unbelief and hostility. Another reason is the rise of militantly antireligious political systems. (Billy Graham)

In Revelation 2:10 (NKJV), Jesus told us to Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown if life.

We may face the furnace of opposition that is heated 7 times hotter and pressure to conform will become stronger. It will take a great deal of grace, prayer, courage, and faith for God's people to stand tall for Christ while others bow a knee to the gods of this world. (Wiersbe)

The LORD saith, Them that honor me I will honor. (1 Sam. 2:30)

No matter how hot things may get in this world for believers in Jesus, our God is with us in the furnace, and will ultimately defeat our enemies and establish His New Kingdom here one day.

LET IT GO

Let God burn off those things that bind us to sin and set us free. No human can bind us if God wants us to be free.

Trust God in every situation.

Thank You God that our destiny is in Your hands and not in human hands and only You hold the power over life and death.

Will We Remain Faithful in the Fire of Affliction?

O. #1980  "Will We Remain Faithful in the Fire of Affliction?"

July 12, 2021

Daniel 3-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

We have been studying about the three Hebrews who were in Babylon serving as officials in Nebuchadnezzar's empire. They had remained faithful servants of God along with their fiend Daniel. Now the three were facing a fiery furnace because of their obedience to their God. (Do not bow down thyself before idols nor serve them, found in Exodus 20:5)

The prideful Neb had made the golden giant idol and required all to bow down and worship it. By refusing to do so, anyone would be thrown into the fiery furnace, which would be made 7 times hotter. Those temperatures could have been from 1,500 degrees to 10,500 degrees. (Cremations are normally run at 1,800 degrees.) Now that is hot. The king's most mighty men in his army were called in to bind those three and cast them into the burning fiery furnace. He was angry and serious about this, wasn't he? Notice that his command was urgent. Urgent means to shear or cut close; to be severe.

Sounds like this action took place quickly and they were bound tightly in their clothes. Now ordinarily, their clothes would have immediately burned up in the flames, then their hair and body. But God...

The king must have been watching the whole episode.  

These three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. (verse 23)

Those three faithful believers in God did not fight for their lives. No struggle or resistance was there that day, for they willingly accepted being thrown into the fire.

How do we react when thrown into a fire of testing? Do we cry, ask why it was happening to us, resist, turn our back and quite following Jesus, not deserving this? Or do we pray and ask for strength to continue in the fire of affliction? God placed us precisely where we are for a purpose. Are we faithful to Him to fulfill it or do we walk away, quitting?

What if Jesus had quit when the first nail or whip was used on Him? He could have call ten thousand angels to rescue Him that day, but loved us so much that He chose to endure and stay on the cross for us. Have you thanked Jesus for taking our place as payment for our sins?

LET IT GROW

What happened to the mighty men who threw the guys into the furnace? Verse 22 tells us the flames of the fire killed them. That backfired on the king, didn't it? :) 

How did the king react to what happened next?

• Neb was astonied, which refers to amazed; take alarm. He was astonished; couldn't believe his what his eyes saw.
• He rose up in haste and asked his counselors, "Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire?" And they answered, "True." (verse 24)
• Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. (verse 25)
• Neb went near the mouth of the furnace and spoke to the three, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the Most High God, come forth and come hither. (verse 26)

Look what happened then: The three stepped out of the fire. Neb's officials crowded around them and saw that the fire had not touched them. Not a hair of their heads was singed, and their clothing was not scorched, nor even smell of smoke! (verse 27)

The power of God was seen in proof and smelled-no blisters, scorching, burning, hair singed, and no smell of smoke.

If we have ever been around something that has burned, whether a brush pile, fire pit for roasting meat, or a house, we do not forget the smell of smoke that lingers on our clothing. And evidence of our presence there lingers.

God performed a miracle that day! Jesus walked and must have been talking with those three faithful guys. What an experience for them! They found liberty, walking about as thou they were in a palace, not a furnace. Only the ropes that bound them were affected by the fire. Indeed, God was able and willing to deliver His faithful servants. What a public witness. There was no doubt that God is Supreme and Almighty, for He had three witnesses, living miracles!

Are we believers in Jesus a living miracles of His salvation and redemption?

LET IT GO

What do we need to let go so we can follow Jesus in the fire of affliction?

Jesus knows what we need and when we need it. Because He is faithful, we can be faithful and endure our fire. But if He chooses not to rescue us, will we remain faithful to the end? 

Bound in The Fire

O. T. #1979 "Bound in The Fire"

July 9, 2021

Daniel 3-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Declaring that they would not bow down to the king's gods nor worship his golden giant idol, the three Hebrews confronted their challenge and confessed the Lord. They believed God was able to deliver them from the furnace, but even if He chose not to, they would still remain faithful to Him. There are more things we can learn from the faith of the three Hebrews before they are thrown into the fiery furnace of Neb:

3. True faith confounds the enemy.

• The proud king's temper got the best of him, although he gave them a way out, he then was determined to destroy them for refusing to obey his law. (The jealous Babylonian officials must have been happy because they wanted to be promoted in their place.)
• The king ordered the furnace to be 7 times hotter for the Hebrews. (They would be on fire for Jesus.)
• That furnace was used for smelting ore. It had a large opening at the top where the wood and ore could be put into the furnace. An opening in its wall allowed the progress to be checked, as well as use of bellows to increase the blaze of the fire. The furnace was large enough for 4 men to walk around in it.

So lately one weekend we were confronted with criticism, our past failures, and the other people's unforgiveness. We didn't expect it from the source, and it was devastating. Words were like hot coals burning my soul. They wouldn't listen to us, but kept beating the dead dog, not seeing the good we had accomplished. We were already judged for decisions we had not even made yet. This resulted in feeling like my heart was cut out and slashed into pieces. Tears continuously flowed down my face, but we did not walk away first. All this happened because we remained faithful to our God in serving Him for a lifetime. Needless to say, this event presented the hardest struggle of my faith, requiring forgiveness I have ever experienced in my life. Truly, we were in the fiery furnace.

Have you ever had such an experience? Time is helping me to love and forgive as Jesus loves and forgives my sins, too.

LET IT GROW

4. True faith confirms the promises.

• We know the rest of the story. The three faithful Hebrews were bound in their coats (a cloak), hosen (a gown), hats (a mantle; a robe (an upper and outer garment).
• And they were cast into the fiery furnace. (verse 21)

 Rather than sin against their God, the three Hebrews remained obedient and faithful to their God. They were determined not to do the king's will, but God's will. In face of execution and death, they knew their lives and souls were in God's hands. The faithful Hebrews had no hope unless hope itself intervened.

What has you bound today? Is it causing you to sin more or grow deeper in love and faith in Jesus?

Folks, I don't like to leave us here, but next time we will see how Hope came just in time. Finish this chapter and you will find Hope.

 

LET IT GO

Greater is the One living inside of me than he who is living in the world.

God is a promise keeper. His Words never fail.

He restores broken hearts.

Release Your love and power inside of us. You reign forever.

We praise You God today.

Facing a Fiery Furnace With Faith

O. T. #1978  "Facing a Fiery Furnace  With Faith"

July 8, 2021

Daniel 3-Part 2

If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve the gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. (Daniel 3:17-18)

LET IT GLOW

When the king of the most powerful empire in the world says you will do something, or else burn to death, one has a serious decision to make-to obey or not to obey. Bow down and worship his golden idol when the music is played or you are ashes, and immediately, or not. That was the law. However, the 3 Hebrew men did not bow.

What can we learn from  this event? The Wiersbe Bible Commentary gives us some points to think about:

1. True faith confronts the challenge. (verses 1-12)

• The heart of the king was filled with pride. He wanted to make sure his people were loyal to him, and there were no rebels. Fear was a tactic he used to accomplish his goal.
• The hearts of the people were superstitious, accustomed to worshiping many gods and goddesses. Everyone lives by faith in something. the difference is in the object of that faith.
• The hearts of the three Jewish men were revealed when they stood tall as everyone else bowed. Their confidence was in the Lord being in control and had nothing to fear.

In Isaiah 43:1-2 God said, Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, nor shall the flame scorch you.

Faith means obeying God regardless of the feelings within us, the circumstances around us, or the consequences before us. True faith isn't frightened by threats, impressed by crowds, or swayed by superstitious ceremonies. True faith obeys the Lord and trusts Him to work out the consequences.

To have bowed only once before the idol would have destroyed their witness and broken their fellowship with God. To bow once would have led to serving Neb's false gods for the rest of their lives. The king must have forgotten that earlier he had called the God of the Jews "the God of gods, the Lord of kings" found in 2:47.  Satan tried to get Jesus to bow down before him, only once, but the Savior refused and did not sin during His temptations.

True faith doesn't look for loopholes; it simply obeys God and knows that He will do what is best. Faith rests on commands and promises, not on arguments and explanations. People were looking and listening; the three were concerned not for themselves, but to be a witness to others.

LET IT GROW

2. True faith confesses the Lord. (verses 13-18)

• Those 3 Jews were concerned with obeying the Lord and giving a faithful witness to all who were watching and listening. Their attitude was respectful and their words were few and carefully chosen. Our task is to obey God and trust Him, and He will do the rest.
• Read our two key verses above. Those men did not need to defend themselves before the king. They believed that if they were thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom they served was able to save them. He would rescue them from the king's power. but if He did not, they wanted to make it clear that they would never serve his gods or worship the golden statue he set up. (NLT)

These courageous Jewish men refused the king's direct order and placed themselves in God's hands. They would fear their God rather than the king's furnace any day. Even if He sovereignly decides to let them burn, they still serve the living God rather than bow to his dead idol. Priceless! They preferred death over unfaithfulness to God and had no doubt prepared themselves for the possibility of this day far in advance. The faithful Hebrews had no hope-unless hope itself intervened. (The Tony Evans Bible Commentary)

Jesus is our hope. He is all-powerful. Nothing is impossible with God, as Luke 1:37 tells us. He holds our life in His hands. He decided our birth and has determined our day of death. Are you ready? 

3. True faith confounds the enemy. (verses 19-25)

4. True faith confirms the promises. (verses 25-30)

 

LET IT GO

Our God is still the same God that the three Hebrews worshiped and served.

He does not change.

If He desires for us to go through the fiery furnace, whether it be literal or one of conflict, He can deliver us from it or give us strength to go through it.

Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful. (Hebrews 10:23)

When God speaks, He stands by His Word to see that it comes to pass. (Isaiah 55:11)

So we must trust God completely when He speaks a word to us, for He never deceives His children. If God has indicated to you that He is going to do something, we can be absolutely confident that He will do it. He has not failed me yet.

Are we faithfully believing?

Fiery Trials Bring Exceeding Joy

O. T. #1977  "Fiery Trials Bring Exceeding Joy"

July 7, 2021

Daniel 3

LET IT GLOW

We don't know how much time lapsed after Daniel and his friends were promoted. Perhaps it was 20 years. Anyway, Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, made a golden image hollow inside and about 90 feet tall and 9 feet wide, which was undoubtedly seen for miles as it stood on the plain of Dura. He called his administrators to the dedication of the image. (Apparently, Daniel was away, maybe on business, for he is not mentioned here.) the list of officials include those in civil, military, and religious offices. The commanded that all people would bow down to the image when they heard the music. Also, there were consequences if anyone did not do so:

And whoso falleth not down and worshippeth shall the same hour be cast into the midst of a burning fiery furnace. (verse 6)

This command was in violation of God's second commandment (Exodus 20:4-5). The masses generally obeyed when their life was at stake. All bowed to the image, idol, except the three Hebrew boys. It would have been quite noticeable, wouldn't you say? this was reported to the king. The tattle tales ran to the king, wouldn't you say?

They paid no attention to you, king, for they refused to serve your gods and do not worship the gold statue you have set up. What an accusation.  Jealousy dripped from the reporters since those foreigners had attained high positions despite their being only captives.

The word worship appears 11 times in this chapter. It refers to prostrate oneself (in homage); fall down to worship. Haven't we lost the position during our worship of God? Will we not humble our self, being vulnerable to worship the Almighty God?

What would we have done? Even when we knew we would be thrown into a fiery furnace to die, how would we have reacted? Would we disobey the will of a political king to remain faithful to our God? It may come to this one day in our nation. 

LET IT GROW

Dear one, are you going through a fiery trial in your life now? How are you doing?

The devil tempts us to destroy our faith, but God tests us to develop our faith. A faith that can't be tested can't be trusted. False faith withers in times of trial, but true faith takes deeper root, grows, and brings glory to God.

1 Peter 1:7  tells us: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.

Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. (1 Peter 4:12-13)

 

LET IT GO

My God is able to save, deliver, and heal.

Help us come through those fiery trials giving You glory.

Fill us with exceeding joy, Jesus.

Grow our faith in You.

Keep us humble as we serve You, Jesus.

From Tragedy to Triumph

O. T. #1976  "From Tragedy to Triumph"

July 6, 2021

Daniel 2-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name. for the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations. (Ps. 100:4-5)

Have you experienced the goodness of God recently? It was so nice to be with our family last week. Have you experienced His mercy lately? Our trip to the beach took 12 hours each way. We all remained safe as we traveled. To see His might in the waves of the ocean and feel the strong winds, certainly God is All Mighty, El Shaddai.

How are we worshiping our God? Are we just going through the motions, reluctantly going to church? Or are we thankfully praising Him for who He is and what He has done? God is good, all the time!

LET IT GROW

The king answered unto Daniel, and said, Of a truth it is, that your God is a God of gods, and a Lord of kings, and a revealer of secrets, seeing thou couldest reveal this secret. (Daniel 2:47)

Nebuchadnezzar was so overwhelmed by what Daniel did that he treated Daniel as though he were a god. (Babylon was polytheistic, having may gods.) verse 46 King Neb recognized the supremacy of Daniel's God, yet he did not surrender his heart unto the One who provides salvation. Although he acknowledged the God of the Hebrews was greater than all other gods, he had not yet come to the place where he believed in one true living God. It is one thing to know about God and to know Him personally as Savior.

But if ye show the dream, and the interpretation, thereof, ye shall receive of me gifts and rewards and great honor: therefore show me the dream and the interpretation thereof. (verse 6)

That statement was made by the king of Babylon to his magicians, but he kept his word whenever Daniel performed it. Daniel was promoted to ruler over the province of Babylon and chief of its governors. Then Daniel requested his three friends be helpers within the office. Not only was Daniel given administrative authority, but also chief of the wise men. Daniel was a chief counselor, who was near the king at all times. In addition, he sat at the king's gate, a place of great authority. (verse 49)

What started out as possible tragedy (the killing of 4 godly men) turned into great triumph (promotion after giving God the glory). God came through for His faithful servants like he did for Joseph way back in Egypt. Daniel continued to praise and honor God by his faithfulness in the middle of a pagan empire. Soon his friends would have an opportunity to prove the faithfulness of their God in the face of a deadly threat.

Do you believe that our God the God of gods, the one true living and only God to be worshiped? (I must ask this since we have some readers living in a nation what worships other gods.)

Folks, this is not just a good story. I know that He alone is worthy of praise and worship. Will you believe in Jehovah and Jesus is Savior? He loves you so much that Jesus provided a way to heaven for us by dying on the cross as the Lamb of God that takes away our sins.

LET IT GO

You are Lord God Almighty that reigns!

Holy, holy is the Lord God Almighty!

Worthy is the Lamb of praise and glory and worship!

Give God credit for things we do.

Thank You Father for Your Word and giving me directions and ability to write for Your glory.

Modern World, Decaying Morals

O. T. #1975  "Modern World, Decaying Morals"

July 5, 2021

Daniel 2-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before His presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people, and the sheep of His pasture. (Ps. 100: 1-3)

I memorized this chapter many moons ago. Can't recall when, just know that I know it. Isn't that all that matters? That we hide God's Word in our hearts so we do not sin against Him.

Look at what Life Application Study Bible says:

David tells us to acknowledge that Yahweh is God! How can we do that? We acknowledge Him when we shout our praises, appreciate His status as our Creator, accept His authority in every detail of life, enthusiastically agree with the guidance He gives us, and express our thanks for His unfailing love. God is our Creator: we did not create ourselves. Many people live as though they are the creator and center of their own little world. This mind-set leads to pride, greed, idolatry, and if everything should be taken away, a loss of hope itself. But when we realize that God created us and gives us all we have, we will want to give to others as God gave to us. (2 Cor. 9:8) Then, even if all is lost, we still have God and all He gives us.

 That puts everything in perspective, doesn't it? Who is the center of our life? Is it God or self?

LET IT GROW

We were sitting in a medical facility awaiting my tests to be done when my attention was brought to a show on television in the room. I had seen a show where houses are remodeled, but this time it was shocking. The couple was lesbians. Sickening it was, as they planned to remodel a house they were purchasing somewhere. What a decay of morals our nation is experiencing now. We can't go anywhere that sinners are not pushing their immorality on us Christians. So we turned our attention to my phone, watching a preacher of Jesus Christ sharing the gospel for the next hour.

If you missed the dream that Daniel recalled for King Neb, it was focused in our last post. God had given Daniel wisdom as to what it was and its meaning.

Wiersbe furnishes some good points concerning the 4 Gentile kingdoms and the final reigning kingdom of Jesus Christ:

1. Babylonian kingdom-God is in control of history and the future because He plans them. The good and wicked accomplish His purposes. It was God who allowed Neb to defeat his enemies and expand his empire. He was given kingdom, power, strength, and glory by the God of heaven. (verse 37)
2. The Medo-Persian kingdom-the atomic weight of gold is 10 times that of clay, and silver is 5 times heavier than clay. Although kingdoms and nations appear strong and durable, they are always in danger of falling over and crashing. Neb's statue was top heavy.
3. The Grecian kingdom-It will be difficult for things to hold together at the end of the age. Although those kingdoms were strong, they still crumble. (The Greeks and Romans worshiped idols and false gods, instead of the One, True, Living God.)
4. The Roman Empire-It was strong as iron, yet weak and prone to crumble as clay. Man at his best is clay, for God made him out of the dust of the earth. Although all people are made in the image of God, sin has robbed us of the dominion He gave us. (Gen.1:26)
5. The Stone, Jesus Christ's kingdom-When He returns to rule, He will destroy His enemies and establish His kingdom. The stone is a frequent image of God in scripture and especially of Messiah, Jesus Christ the Son of God.

Our hope is not in laws, political alliances, or moral crusades. Our hope is in the Lord. People's hearts need to be changed by the grace of God. Then we will be witnesses to the ends of the earth. The only kingdom that will stand forever is Christ's kingdom. (Daniel 2:44)

With a message like Daniel's, the king should have been humbled and humbled himself before Almighty God, but he did not. We will read about how God brought him down to do just that in chapter 4. Next time we will see how Daniel and his friends were promoted in the Babylonian kingdom, since they remained faithful to their God.

Even though our modern world that can contact and travel quickly around the world, though we have powerful medicines, electronic devices that boggle our minds, good houses, cars, and planes, we have new problems to solve. It is easier to make a living, but harder to make a life; more difficult to remain faithful to our God in these times. Do we realize that we are but clay? Are we acknowledging that God is supreme and not us?

LET IT GO

Keep us close to You, Father.

Fight for us, keep us humbled, and surrendered to Your will, not ours.

Direct us, use us to share hope in Jesus.

Bless us and be in charge of our life today.

An Incredible Image

O. T. #1974  "An Incredible Image"

July 3, 2021

Daniel 2-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

God answered Daniel's prayer and told the king what he saw in his dream and its meaning. It was a huge, shining statue of a man. The bright metallic image was as tall as a 10 story building. Not only was it majestic, but also terrifying and troubling for the king. It was composed of 5 different materials: gold, silver, bronze, iron, and clay. There would be 4 successive Gentile kingdoms, and the fifth kingdom would destroy the other four and fill the earth. The fifth was the kingdom of the Lord Jesus Christ, who is King of kings and Lord of lords.

LET IT GROW

The meaning of Neb's dream in which the large image represented four Gentile kingdoms of:

1. The head of gold-Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonian kingdom (verses 37-38) It lasted from 636 BC to 539 BC. Jeremiah called it "a gold cup in the Lord's hand," in Jer. 51:7.
2. The breast and arms of silver-The Medo-Persian kingdom (539-330 BC), in which Darius the Mede conquered Babylon.
3. The belly and thighs of bronze-The Grecian kingdom (330-63BC) in which Alexander the Great established the largest empire in ancient times.
4. the legs and feet of iron and clay-The Roman Empire (63 BC-AD 475) as Rome was strong in law, organization, and military might, but it had so many different peoples that this created weakness.
5. The destruction of the image-when Jesus Christ comes, as a Stone to judge His enemies and establish His universal kingdom.

[Resources: The Wiersbe Bible Commentary; Liberty Bible Commentary]

Daniel took time to give God the credit for such knowledge and wisdom. Since we can look back over history, we can conclude that It happened as He said it would. History records it as so. Therefore, we can conclude that Jesus will come again and establish His kingdom, just as predicted.

Are we ready? Do you know the Savior?

LET IT GO

Be sure that we do not put our trust in governments and people, but Jesus.

Serve Him while we have time.

Worship and love Jesus today.

Leave everything in His hands, the all-wise God.

Who is Wise?

O. T. #1973     "Who is Wise?"

July 1, 2021

Daniel 2-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto His name: bring an offering, and come into His courts. O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before Him, all the earth. (Ps. 96:8-9)

God is not only the God of the Jews, but also the God of the Gentiles, you and me. Therefore, we are exhorted to worship Him as Lord. One day every person will bow before Jesus Christ and confess that He alone is Lord to the glory of God. (Phil. 2:10-11)

Friend, have you prepared your heart to meet this holy God when death comes? the way has been provided-Jesus died on the cross to provide us with holiness and righteousness, because we have none. Simply as Jesus to forgive your sins and become your Savior. He will hear your prayer. Then we will be glad to bow before Him when that time comes.

Meanwhile, give Him the glory, honor, and praise that He deserves. Bring offerings to him in all sorts of forms, not just monetary. Attend a worship service and give your heart to Jesus. Although God is everywhere, we are told to not forsake the assembling of ourselves. It is to Him that we owe our very existence. He loves us so much. Will you come to Jesus today?

LET IT GROW

The king of Babylon had a disturbing dream at least one night. His magicians could not tell him what it was about, nor could they discern what it meant. So Neb was going to have all wise men killed, which included Daniel and his 3 friends. Brave Daniel asked the king for time and he would give the interpretation. (verse 16)

Daniel made known what was going on with his friends. They prayed for the God of heaven to show them mercy and reveal the king's secret. God was faithful to answer their prayers. That night He revealed the secret to Daniel in a night vision. (verse 19) Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven. In verses 20-23, we read of Daniel's praise prayer.

Daniel asked the king's captain to not kill all the wise men in Babylon, for Daniel had the answer to the king's secret. Daniel was taken to the king, then told the king: But there is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh known to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the latter days. Thy dream, and the visions of thy head upon thy bed are these. (verse 28)

And it is not because I am wiser than anyone else that I know the secret of your dream, but because God wants you to understand what was in your heart. (verse 30)

What was in this king's heart? Well, at that time, Neb was the most powerful king on earth. He had conquered Assyria, Judah, and Egypt. He was considered a god to the pagans. This mystery was not revealed so Daniel would become the most important man on earth nor the smartest one; no, it was so Neb would realize he was not so and he would worship the only true God.

Eventually this did happen. Next time we will look at the dream and its meaning.

Do we take credit for what God does in our life? Or do we give Him the credit and glory? All that we are, all that we have, and all of our abilities have come from God, not us.  

LET IT GO

Thank You Father God that You love us, created us, sustain us, provide what we need.

Thank You Jesus for providing salvation and a way to go to heaven.

Glory to You.

We are not wise, for only You are all wise.