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.