Another World-Wide Ruler is Yet to Come

O. T. #2014  "Another Word-Wide Ruler is Yet to Come"

August 31, 2021

Daniel 11-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Here is a little more detail as to what happened to Antiochus Epiphanes, the Greek ruler of Macedonia after Alexander the Great's death (whose kingdom was divided into 4 rulers). He invaded the Jews and tried to force them to accept the Greek dress, customs, and religion. He was the one who sacrificed a pig in the Temple of Jerusalem and erected a statue of the Greek pagan god Zeus.

Eventually, a band of Jews led by Judas Maccabeus defeated this force and cleansed the Temple. Its dedication is still celebrated by Jews today during the Jewish festival of Hanukkah. Antiochus was a mirror image of the still-future little horn of Daniel 7, the Antichrist. (Tony Evans)

Maccabeaus was among the people that did know their God. He resisted, along with his 5 sons, the reigning Antiochus. They banded together and engaged in guerilla warfare from 168-165 BC. Time and again a small number of Jews would defeat the much larger army of Antiochus. (Falwell)

After 3 years of fighting, they were able to restore worship to the Temple in Jerusalem. It was cleansed and purified on December 25, 165 BC.

Will we believers continue to meet in church buildings to worship Jesus Christ our Savior, even if it is against the law? Are we strong in faith to face persecution and rejection for sharing God's Word?

 

LET IT GROW

There is one more world-wide ruler to come before the Millennial reign of Christ comes, and that will be the Antichrist.

Verse 35 describes a time of trial even for wise believers that will stumble:

• They will fall into sin,
• be fearful and lose faith,
• mistakenly follow wrong teaching,
• or experience severe suffering and martyrdom. (Life Application Study Bible)

If they persevere in faith, any such experience would only refine and make them stronger. Could we be living in such times, since many false teachers have followers?

Verse 36 shifts to the last evil world dictator, the Antichrist.

Wiersbe gives us a good outline of events to come as Gabriel explains to Daniel:

• The rise of Antichrist (11:36-39)
• War and invasions (11:40-43)
• The Battle of Armageddon (11:44-45a)
• The return of Christ to defeat Antichrist (11:45b)

Keep in mind that the event that triggers the beginning of those last 7 years is the signing of the covenant with Israel by the powerful leader in the ten-nation confederacy in Europe. (7:7-28)

The Antichrist will guarantee his protection for Israel while the Jews rebuild their temple in Jerusalem. However, he will break it and establish himself as god of gods, since he will be an atheist and reject all religions except his own. When the people of the world worship the man of sin, they are actually worshipping Satan, the one who empower the Antichrist. He will reward those who worship him and his manufactured god.

Folks, do you know that the Temple right now has been replaced by a golden dome where Islamics worship their false god? Jews are allowed to go to the Wailing Wall to pray. We had better be prayed us, standing on the promises of God our Savior. Put our trust in Him, not governments, militaries, deceivers.

 

LET IT GO

When the right time comes, God will tell His Son Jesus to go get His children, believers, and worshipers.

Look up, our redemption draweth nigh.

Make sure we are His, ready to let go of this world.

Father God, we are trusting in You.

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing,  that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy ghost. (Romans 15:13)

*Pray that this blog is kept safe to proclaim the Truth, for we have people from various nations visiting it. 

Stand Strong

O. T. #2013  "Stand Strong"

August 30, 2021

Daniel 11-Part 2

God is the strength of my heart, my portion forever.

 (Psalm 73:26b)

LET IT GLOW

*Praying for peace and comfort for the 13 families of those marines lost in Afghanistan, trying to rescue folks.

Are you facing trials? Let them be opportunities to strengthen your faith.

The man who foreshadows the coming antichrist is Antiochus IV Epiphanes, the Syrian Seleucid king. (175-163 BC). His anti-Semitic  and tyrannical career was prophesied by the angelic messenger sent to Daniel to reveal the events found here. It was fulfilled as he illegally seized the Syrian throne from the son of his murdered brother, Seleucus IV. (verse 21)

I mention this because this dude lost power in Egypt because the Roman government ordered him to leave immediately or face the consequences of war with Rome. He did, but this humiliation angered Antiochus and he vented his rage on Jerusalem by massacring 80,000 people in Jerusalem. (verse 28)

Also, Antiochus desecrated the sanctuary by sacrificing swine on the altar and erecting a statue of the Olympian god Zeus. (verse 31) Several scrolls of the Mosaic Law were destroyed, and forbade keeping the Sabbath, circumcising male children, and carrying out sacrifices in the Temple. Jews who refused to follow orders were persecuted and martyred. (verses 32-33)

LET IT GROW

Here comes the good part: after the Jewish Maccabaean family began to revolt against Antiochus, the Seleucid forces eventually suffered some significant defeats. (However, many courageous Jews were lost in the process. (verse 34-35a)

In 165, Judas Maccabaeus cleansed the Temple and restored worship within its walls. (Although, religious persecution did not end, but continued in the second century B.C.; it will continue until the appointed time brings it to a close. (verse 35b)

Verse 32b NLT says: But the people that do know their God will be strong and will resist him.  

It looks like that verse is referring to resisting Antiochus. Wise teachers will die by fire and sword, be jailed and robbed. The will fall victim to persecution. (verse 35)

In this way, they will be refined and cleansed and made pure until the time of the end, for the appointed time is still to come.  (verse 35b, NLT) 

 

LET IT GO

Be strong in the Lord Jesus in faith, trust, and obedience.

Let go of things and cling to Jesus.

Prophecies That Happened

O. T. #2012  "Prophecies That Happened"

August 27, 2021

Daniel 11

LET IT GLOW

Fulfilled prophecy is one of the proofs of the inspiration of the Bible, for only an omniscient God can know future events accurately and direct His servants to write them down. (Wiersbe)

He reveals deep and secret things; He knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with Him. (Daniel 2:22)

Those of us who believe in a great God have no problem accepting "the word of prophecy." (2 Peter 1:19-21)

These last two chapters of Daniel's writings and prophecies was actually a revelation that came to the prophet Daniel in a vision, found in 10:1. Keep in mind that some of the events predicted have already been fulfilled and are ancient history, but had not in Daniel's time. There were some ugly wars and conflicts as groups sought to dominate the world and its people, as well as eliminate the Jews, God's chosen and beloved people:

1. The Medo-Persian Empire-Cyrus ruled in Persia and Egypt while Darius ruled in Mede and Babylon. Then came Cambyses, Gaumata, Darius I Hystaspes, and Xerxes (Ahasuerus ) in the book of Esther.
2. The Grecian Empire-ruled by Alexander the Great, but died at age 32. As said earlier, Al's kingdom was divided by the 4 generals-Cassander had Macedonia and Greece; Lysimachus had Thrace and parts of Asia Minor; Ptolemy ruled Egypt and Palestine; and Seleucus ruled northern Syria and Mesopotamia.
3. The Ptolemies and Seleucids-The 6 Ptolemies were the kings of the south and ruled Egypt, while the 4 Seleucids reigned in Syria.
4. Antiochus Epiphanes-had 4 rulers in Syria, too.

An excellent source of history and those rulers is found in commentaries by MacArthur, Wiersbe, Swindoll, and Falwell.

I have tried to summarize what happened, but they offer details on kings killing family members in order to gain control. Greed for power and wealth led them.

We can look into biblical history and see that Daniel's prophecies came true. Two more are yet to occur, so we will study them next week.

LET IT GROW

What can we learn from this history?

• Human nature hasn't changed over thousands of years.
• People went to any length to get what they wanted, even violating human rights and the breaking of divine laws.
• God is not responsible for the evil people have done in the name of government and religion.
• Even though evil has tried to destroy the Jews, god still has a remnant preserved.
• No matter how difficult the times, God keeps His covenant with believers in Jesus. If we are martyred for our faith, it is a witness.
• God is still the Lord of history and continues to work out His plans for humankind. God will receive glory through it all.
• Hopefully, people will repent of their sins before it is too late.

LET IT GO

Jesus is way-maker, miracle worker, promise keep, that is who He is.

He is faithful and trustworthy.

Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life; no one comes unto the Father except through Him.

Hold us in Your hands, as well as Christians around the world, so we can proclaim Jesus Christ is Lord.

 

Delayed Prayers Can Still Be Answered

O. T. #2011  "Delayed Prayers Can Still Be Answered"

August 26, 2021

Daniel 10-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Did you know that there may be a reason your prayer is not answered yet? There may be a spiritual warfare going on in the invisible world preventing it, as in Daniel's case. Don't give up or give in, beloved one. Our God hears our prayers.

This is Daniel's final vision from God. Prior to it, King Cyrus had allowed Jews to return to Jerusalem to rebuild the city and the Temple for worshiping God. Daniel remained in Babylon, for he was about 84 years old at this time. He may have been too old to make the many months journey, or his government duties may have kept him there, or God may have told him to stay behind to complete the wok he was called to do. The reason does not really matter in the scope of things.

The work in Jerusalem had been halted, so Daniel was praying, fasting, and mourning for three weeks. His answer was delayed during that time. Daniel was given insight into the great spiritual battle between God's people and those who want to destroy them. (Satan did not want restoration in Jerusalem, nor did he want God to be worshiped there, nor lives changed. This is my conclusion as to why the events happened in chapter 10.))

Why was Daniel's prayer delayed? What happened in the spirit realm?

• An incredible-looking angel who appeared in human form in Daniel's vision, as well as Daniel being alone. (verse 7)
• Some believe it was the majestic pre-incarnate appearance of Christ with the description given.
• Others say it was the messenger/angel Gabriel since Archangel Michael was sent to help him successfully battle the demon assigned as prince of Persia. (He was one of Satan's principalities and powers there.) (verses 13,21)
• Daniel had no strength and breath to converse in his vision, so the messenger touched Daniel and gave him strength. (verse 19)
• After the vision, this one would return to fight the prince of Persia and the prince of Greece. (Michael was assigned as the prince for Israel.) ( verses 20, 21)

LET IT GLOW

What can we learn from this chapter?

Charles Swindoll directs us in his study guide, Daniel, with 5 principles of prayer:

1. Believers' prayers are immediately heard by God. However, we will not always receive prompt replies to our petitions.
2. Demonic forces can delay answers to prayer. Demonic agents attempt to thwart God's activity. They are given certain limited powers. God will not allow the believer to be tested beyond his limit. (1 Cor. 10:13)
3. Wrestling in prayer is exhausting work. Daniel was speechless, felt exhausted physically, engaging in spiritual warfare on his knees. Yet, it had advanced God's cause on earth. Fatigue is a small price to pay for curbing evil and furthering good.
4. Following wearisome times of prayer, strength returns in extra measures. Angels are ministering spirits who are sent by God to render service for the sake of those who will inherit salvation.
5. Overcoming demonic forces is not a once-and=for-all matter. The angel had to return to the fight after explaining the vision to Daniel.

The conflict between God and Satan is still being fought today. Christ's death on the cross has ensured Satan's defeat, but it has not yet ended the war. (Heb. 2:14; 1 John 3:8; Rev. 12-13, 19:19-20:10)

Christians have God's promise that the ultimate victory over satanic powers is our because greater is He who is in (us) than he who is in the world. (1John 4:4)

 

LET IT GO

Keep praying and believing in God's work, answers, victory.

Nothing is mightier than our Almighty God, El Sahaddiah.

Father, please heal those hurting, give peace to those troubled, and strengthen us who are weak.

Thank You that You hear our prayers.

Give us patience when our prayers are hindered or delayed by unseen obstacles.

Grow our faith as we expect Your answer at the right time.

Glory to God in the Highest.

An Exceptional and Unusual Man

O. T. #2010  "An Exceptional and Unusual Man"

August 25, 2021

Daniel 10

LET IT GLOW

I would certainly like to be able to skip the rest of the book, but can't. It is just as important to finish studying what Daniel experienced. I wondered why these events happened. and then I found my answers. First, many people have joined us from foreign nations, so God has His children everywhere that want to study His Truth. Some may only be curious, but that is okay. They still get the Word of God here. This nobody that I am knows the Somebody that loves them and I want to share with everybody what He has to say.

This remarkable experience or vision happened to Daniel during the third year of Cyrus, the Persian king, who was ruling Babylon. Daniel was about 84 or 85 years old by this time. He had shared with Nebuchadnezzar the meaning/interpretation of his dream concerning the future empires to rule the world. (Before Jesus came, that is.) So in the future, Greece, Rome, the antichrist, and Christ were going to be rulers to come.

This praying prophet continued to be faithful to his God, the God of Israel. He had even been thrown into the lions den because of his praying not to the king and disobeying the law and survived. also, Daniel had interpreted the handwriting on the wall for king Belshazzar.

Daniel was greatly beloved (precious) of Living God. This chapter took place during the third year of Cyrus being king. Gabriel had come to Daniel explaining the vision that Daniel had in chapter 9, after reading Jeremiah.

The Wiersbe Bible Commentary explains why Daniel had been praying, fasting, and used no ointments as he sought the face of the Lord:

1. He was concerned for those fellow 50,000 Jews who had returned  a year before to Jerusalem in order to rebuild the city and the Temple there.
2. Undoubtedly he had heard that the work had been opposed and finally stopped (Ezra 4). Suffering hardships in the ruined city may have caused Daniel to wonder if God would fail to fulfill the promised He made to Jeremiah in chapters 25 and 29. Although a 16 year delay was actually on schedule. He is never late in accomplishing His will. Our times are in God's hands (Psalm 31:15)
3. Perhaps Daniel wanted to better understand the visions and prophecies he had already received. He could have desired more truth about Israel's future. So he could leave encouragements and strength for his people. God is faithful and one day they would enter into the promised kingdom, even though trials and persecutions were to be had.
4. God had laid a burden on Daniel's heart, and we are studying his prophecies because of his faithfulness to pray and fast. He was mourning over his fellow Jews and agonizing in prayer for them.

I don't know about you, but that helps me see that we must carry on studying God's Word and sharing it with others. We have hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

LET IT GROW

Daniel was with some others standing by the Tigris River, when he received a vision in verses 5-7. Only Daniel saw an exceptional and unusual man, a majestic-figure, which looked like Christ in Revelation 1. It could have been the pre-incarnate appearance of Christ as in Exodus 23 and 33.

• He was clothed in linen, wearing a gold belt;
• He had a face like lightning and eyes as lamps of fire;
• His arms and feet were like the color of polished brass;
• His voice was like those of a multitude.

Wow! No wonder those men ran away when a great quaking came. They did not see the vision, but they felt the terror of a powerful presence and hid. Daniel was alone, without strength, listening to the man's worlds, but not able to respond. Daniel fell into a deep sleep with his face on the ground. Maybe this emotionally overwhelmed Daniel and he passed out, slumped to the ground as the angelic figure spoke.

I think we would tremble if we could have a glimpse into the spirit world around us. It would shake us up, too.

 

LET IT GO

May we leave something behind in the journey of life so that those who come after us will be encouraged and helped.

Renew us, Jesus, for we fail You so much of the time.

We believe in God the Father, Christ the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Help the helpless, give hope to the hopeless, light in the darkness, and peace to the restless.

There is on one like our God. Be the Lord of us, this nation, and Israel. Protect us from the evil ones. Glory to God in the Highest.

Past and Future Events

O. T. #2009  "Past and Future Events"

August 24, 2021

Daniel 9-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

I pray for wisdom as I write today's lesson, for I am not a Bible scholar. And my little mind cannot understand all of this. I have many commentaries on my desk, seeking meaning of verses 25-27. They get into depth about the 490 years. People have wondered when the rapture is coming, when the Tribulation is going to happen, and when the Millennial reign of Jesus Christ is going to take place. Folks, those things are known only to God. Many speculate. It will all happen according to God's perfect timetable.

Swindoll draws two truths from this chapter:

1. God deals in specifics. The Lord answered Daniel with particulars, not generalities.
2. God keeps His promises. Events have occurred just as God said they would in the predicted 70 weeks. This should give us confidence that the Lord will keep all the promises He has given in His written Word.

 

LET IT GROW

With that said, we can look into history and a timeline of major events that were some predicted and did occur, others happened:

• 620-540 BC: Daniel lived most of his years in Babylon; 
• 586 BC: Temple in Jerusalem was destroyed by Babylonians;
• 559-530 BC: Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon and Medes;
• 537 BC: King Cyrus sent Zerubbabel to rebuild Jerusalem and Temple, accompanied by 46,697 Jews (Ezra 1-6);
• 14 years adversaries stopped the Temple construction;
• 478 BC: Queen Esther saved the Jews from extermination;
• 458 BC: King Artaxerxes sent Priest Ezra accompanied by 3,508 Jews , second group, to teach the law and renew Temple worship(Ezra 7-10);
• 445 BC: Artaxerxes sent Nehemiah to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem, accompanied by unknown number of Jews (Nehemiah 1-13);
• Nehemiah served as governor for 12 years in Jerusalem;
• 430-433 BC: Nehemiah made a second return to Jerusalem;
• Other world conquerors came along, as well as various philosophies, such as Socrates, Plato, Aristotle 
• Alexander the Great ruled from Greece; pagan Greek god worship established;
• God was silent for 400 years between the Old and New Testament;
• John the Baptist comes on the scene,  preparing the way for the then the Messiah;
• Jesus Christ was born, died on the cross, and arose from the dead, appeared to about 547 people after His resurrection.
• 70 AD: The Roman Empire rules;
• The Church Age in which believers in Jesus as Savior continues to present.
• False religions arise-Buddhism, Islamism, Catholicism
• 1517: Protestant Reformation began.
• 1607: Jamestown, Virginia established.
• 1611: King James Bible published.
• 1776: America declared independence from England
• 1914-1918: World War I
• 1939-1945: World War II in which 6 million Jews and millions of Christians were killed by Nazi Germany.
• 1948: Nation of Israel proclaimed.
• 1989: Berlin Wall fell.
• 1990-91: Persian Gulf War
• 2001: Terrorists attack U.S. world Trade Center and Pentagon with thousands dying.
• 2003: War in Iraq launched by US and Britain
• 2020: World-wide Pandemic from COVID 19 virus, vaccines developed

We do not know when the Antichrist will appear on the scene and rule the world for 7 years, establishing himself as god. but we can take comfort in the church and believers being raptured out before this happens.

Then Jesus Christ will return to earth to rule as King of kings and LORD of lords for a thousand years.

 

LET IT GO

Help us to put our faith in You, Jesus, not militaries, money, governments.

Teach us to live by faith and know You are Sovereign God in charge of our future.

What is to Come

O. T. #2008  "What is to Come"

August 23, 2021

Daniel 9-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

We can't say too much about the love of God, can we? It can't be contained nor does it run out. We all need love and hope. Daniel found it by praying to the only One God. Read on to see what happened.

Daniel wanted to make sense of his circumstances. So he prayed. God dispatched the angel Gabriel before Daniel had finished his prayer. God loved Daniel greatly. Daniel's love for God had been put to the test. Now God was quick to respond in love to him when Daniel was in need.

God wants to answer the prayers of those whose hearts are completely His. (2 Chronicles 16:9) When we want to know the truth of our circumstances, go to God. The media, public opinion, nor political leaders can not explain anything to us. In His time, God will speak to us, since we are greatly beloved (precious) of Him. His answer will come in God's time, whether immediately as in Daniel's case, or it may be delayed, but it will come. (Daniel 10:13) God is on His throne and still reigns over all the earth. If you are genuinely seeking God's answers, you can go to your Father confidently with your questions. He will respond to you in love. (Luke 11:5-13)   

[Resource: Experiencing God Day-By-Day Devotional by Henry and Richard Blackaby]  

Pray!       

 

LET IT GROW

Gabriel explained the six things dealing with sin and righteousness would be accomplished during 490 years.

1. To finish the transgression reference to rebellion against God;
2. To make an end of sins could refer to sin being put away during the Messiah's reign;
3. To make reconciliation for iniquity speaks of an atonement for sin on the basis of some sacrifice-Christ's death on the cross.
4. To bring in everlasting righteousness when Christ returns a second time after the Tribulation Period.
5. To seal up the vision and prophecy they will be fulfilled or consummated so no longer needed.
6. To anoint the Most Holy, which is Christ Himself. (verse 24)

   [ Resource: Liberty Bible Commentary]

The first three were fulfilled in principle at the First Coming of Christ Jesus. The last three will be completed at His Second Advent.

Beloved, have you believed in Jesus as your Savior? He is the Lamb of God that takes away sin. Simply ask Him to forgive your sins. His grace and mercy can reach down to the worst of sinners. Such love!

 

LET IT GO

Holy is the Lord God Almighty, who was, is, and is to come.

With all creation I sing, glory to the King.

Praise to the King of kings; and I will adore You.

Glory and power be to You Jesus the only Wise King.

You are my Everything

and I will adore You Jesus.

You Are Beloved of God

O. T. #2007 "You Are Beloved of God"

August 20, 2021

Daniel 9-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

When was the last time anyone called you beloved? Friends, you and I are the beloved of God. Read on to find out more about this name, beloved.

We read of three things Daniel asked of God for Israel:

1. for God to turn His anger and fury away from God's city (Jerusalem) (verses 16,18,19)
2. to hear Daniel's prayer and cause His face to shine upon God's sanctuary (verse 17)
3. that the Lord forgive God's people called by His name for His own sake and glory.

Jerusalem, the Temple, and Israel were on Daniel's heart and God's heart, too. Friends, we should be praying for Israel every day, since the nation and city and people are loved by God.

Do we pray for our city and community, the people that live down the street, neighbors, those we work with, those at the grocery store and gas station? Are we sharing Jesus' love with them and His salvation?

LET IT GROW

While Daniel was still praying in the evening, God sent Gabriel swiftly to give Daniel skill and understanding of what was going on and his visions. The messenger of God returned to Daniel again and touched him.

Why was Gabriel sent to Daniel? The answer is found in verse 23-for thou art greatly beloved...

In the Hebrew language the word beloved means to delight in; precious.

I conclude that Daniel is greatly precious to God and that God greatly delights in Daniel.

Dear one, we are greatly beloved of God. The proof is that He sent His only Son to die for us, to be our Savior when we could not save our self from the penalty of sin. He proves this love daily providing for our needs. Truly He is a Living and loving God and Savior.

God called Jesus His beloved (dear) son in Matthew 3:17.

Many times in Paul's writings to the churches (and to us) he calls us beloved [much to love (in a social or moral sense)]. 1 Cor. 10:14, 2Cor. 12:19, Phil, 4:1 just to name a few references.

Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. (Colossian 3:12-13)

John called us beloved in his letters of 1John 4:1,7,11as he tells us to love one another. Then in 1John 3:16, John tells us,

Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He (Christ) laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

 

 

 

LET IT GO

Open our eyes to the needs of our neighbors today, Lord Jesus.

Your love never fails, never gives up, never runs out on me! Your love is never ending and never failing, God!

What a loving God and Redeemer You are, Precious Jesus!

Daniel's Prayer

O. T. #2006  "Daniel's Prayer"

August 19, 2021

Daniel 9-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

After Daniel read about the captivity lasting 70 years, in Jeremiah, he knew it was about time for it to end and be fulfilled. so Daniel sought God by prayer and supplication. Daniel's mind-set, habits, and dress were all designed to place his focus on the Lord's character:

• the great (gadowl/gaw-dole') means noble, high, mighty, exceedingly God;
• dreadful (dechal/deh-khal') refers to fear, make afraid God;
• keeping the covenant God;
• keeping mercy (checed/khch'sed), which means kindness, favor, good deed, pity  to them that love Him and to them that keep His commandments.(verse 4)
• Righteousness (tsedaqah/ tsed-aw-kaw') refers to justice, virtue belongeth unto Thee.(verse 7)
• To the Lord our God belong mercies and forgivenesses. (verse 9)
• The LORD our God is righteous in all His works which He doeth.

  Is He your God, the One who is merciful, righteous, forgiving? Is He your covenant-keeping God? Is He righteous in all His works in your life?

Our God does not make mistakes.

 

LET IT GROW

Daniel admitted that he, his nation, and God's people had:

• sinned against God (verses 5, 8, 11, 15)
• committed iniquity (verse 5)
• done wickedly (verse 5)
• rebelled, departing from God's precepts and judgments (verse 5)
• did not harken unto God's prophets, which spoke in His name (verse 6)
• have trespassed against God (verse 7)
• neither had they obeyed the voice of the Lord our God (verse 10, 11, 14)
• did not pray to God so they turned from iniquities and understand Thy truth (verse 13).

What a list of sins that Israel had committed against God and His Word. Folks, we Americans are guilty of those same sins. Are we willing to confess them to our righteous God? Will we intercede for our country so judgment does not fall upon us?

LET IT GO

Righteous God, we have sinned against You and rebelled against Your Word, turned away from following You. We have allowed homosexuality to be acceptable. We kill innocent babies because of sexual sins. We have become self-sufficient, materialism, pleasure-seeking people. We shut out Your Truth and those proclaiming it. We do not keep the Lord's Day as a day of rest.

Please forgive us and have mercy on us sinners.

We need revival in Your churches, so come Holy Spirit and convict us of our sins.

In Jesus' name,

Amen

 

Preparing to Pray

O. T. #2005  "Preparing to Pray"

August 18, 2021

Daniel 9

LET IT GLOW

Some 14 years had passed since chapter 8 (the visions of the 6 kingdoms) occurred. We read where Gabriel explained what Daniel had seen as prophecies from God.

Now when Daniel established the "when" he wrote this- Darius was King Cyrus of Persia during his first year reigning as king. (539 BC) Babylon had been conquered by him. Daniel was studying the Old Testament scrolls and focused on the years prophesied for the Jew's captivity in Jeremiah 25:11. They would be in exile for 70 years.

According to 2 Chronicles 36:21, the Lord stirred in Cyrus' heart to build God a house in Jerusalem. It came after the land of Israel had its Sabbath rests for 70 years that had been ignored by the Jews. (MacArthur)

Leviticus 25:4 states, But in the seventh year shall be a Sabbath of rest unto the land, a Sabbath for the LORD: thou shalt neither sow thy field, nor prune thy vineyard.

 

Daniel knew the end of those 70 years was approaching, and God might allow His people to return to Israel. What did Daniel do? 

What would we do?

 

LET IT GROW

 Verse 3 tells us he prayed to his God, and I set my face unto the Lord God, to seek by prayer and supplications, with fasting and sackcloth, and ashes.

This is not the first time we read of Daniel turning to God in prayer. In 2:17-18, Daniel and his three friends prayed for God to reveal the meaning of Nebuchadnezzar's dream. Then in 6:10, we learned that prayer was a regular part of Daniel's life.

Now we can enter this man's private world and hear the content of one of his talks with God. How did Daniel prepare himself for serious prayer?

Swindoll gives us 5 important ingredients of this prophet's prayer time:

1. Concentration. Daniel focused his mind and energy on seeking God through prayer. He didn't permit the pressures of the day to divert his attention from the Lord.
2. Supplication. It means grace, favor, entreaty, pleadings. Daniel implored his Heavenly Master to hear his requests and fill them according to the promises in Scripture.
3. Fasting. is setting aside the time-consuming task of meal preparation in order to concentrate on the Lord Himself, not to gain God's attention or to impress Him.
4. Humility. Daniel was overtly expressing both his deep sorrow for the Israelites' sin and their total dependence on God for forgiveness and restoration by putting on sackcloth, tearing the garments, and scattering ashes over the head. (2 Samuel 13:19)
5. Honesty. Daniel did not try to conceal anything from the all-knowing Lord. He confessed his and his peoples' wrongdoing, calling on god to show compassion on them and rescue them from their plight.

Daniel prepared himself for prayer because he was a man of prayer. Do others recognize us as a person of prayer, and our prayers are answered?

Are we burdened and heavy hearted about something? Take it to the Lord in prayer.

 

LET IT GROW

 

LET IT GO

The Reigns of Antichrist and Christ

O. T. #2004  "The Reigns of Antichrist and Christ"

AUGUST 17, 2021

Daniel 8-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

We have discussed the four kingdoms of Babylon, Medes and Persians, Greece, and Rome. The next kingdom will be an evil one (when we though it couldn't get any worse than those previously ruled) and the Antichrist.

The Greek prefix anti means against, and  instead of.

The Wiersbe Bible Commentary tells us this about the Antichrist:

• This ruler will be and enemy of Jesus Christ and a counterfeit Christ.
• He has to overcome the rulers in this world.
• He will blaspheme God and convince unbelievers that he is a god.
• Not only will this one control the economy, but he will control and change religion and laws.
• With the help of Satan, he will be a world dictator and deceiver.
• He will make a covenant with the Jewish nation for 7 years. However, he will break it and persecute God's people.
• He will set up his own image in the Jewish Temple in Jerusalem, forcing the world to worship him and the devil. (verses 23-26)

This is all in the plan of the Most High God, Jehovah. We may not understand it, nor like it, but we must accept it.

My purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. (Isaiah 46:10)

Bless the Lord o my soul; bless His holy name. I will worship His holy name (El Shaddiah). Sing like never before.

Glory to god in the Highest!

 

LET IT GROW

Friend, that is not the end. At the appointed time, Jesus will return to earth in all His glory and reign on the earth. (Matthew 24) His kingdom will never be destroyed.

Are you ready to be caught up with Him in the air? (1 Thess. 4:13-18) As I have said before, I believe in the rapture of the church of believers in Jesus. We will not have to go through the tribulation period when the Antichrist rules here.

Our Ancient of Days was in eternity past, is with us now in the present, and will be with us in the future times. He is eternal, holy, and sovereign God. He is still on His throne of judgment.

Jesus will reign on earth for a thousand years. Revelation 20 tells us 6 times that the kingdom will be the millennium reign. There will be world peace during this time. Jesus will be worshiped as God, also.

LET IT GO

Jesus, You alone are our hope, peace, love, and future.

I pray we all put our faith in You, Lord Jesus.

A Horn changed Everything

O. T. #2003  "A Horn Changed Everything"

August 16, 2021

Daniel 8-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

As Daniel's vision continued, he saw the mighty goat (Greece)conquer the ram (Persia). A great horn grew on the goat, which Alexander the Great who established pagan worship. He even made a statue of the Greek god Zeus. You probably studied all of those false gods in school.

That horn broke off, Alex died young, at age 33. Then 4 kingdoms rose from his nation, although not with his power. As 4 horns grew on the ram, four generals divided the Grecian Empire four ways (verse 8):

1. Antiochus IV, called Ephiphanes ruled Syria and Babylon. He overruled Israel and replaced the worship of God with pagan gods, as he offered a large hog on the Jewish altar, defiling the House of God. The Temple had been rebuilt under Zechariah and Haggai.

He introduced Greek literature, culture, plays, sports, government, spreading an international language, and religion to the Jews, trying to make Greeks out of them. (verses 24-25)

Eventually, Antiochus IV died strangely while on an expedition to Persia.

History tells us that these things happened.

LET IT GROW

 Daniel continued to see one saint ask another saint in heaven, just how long would that continue; how long would the rebellion cause desecration to stop the daily sacrifices; how long would the Temple and heaven's army be trampled on. The answer was 6 1/2 years. 

The other 3 rulers included:

2. Ptolemy I would rule Palestine and Egypt.

3. Lysimachus would rule Thrace and Asia Minor.

4. Cassander would rule Greece and Macedon.

We end this chapter with all this prophecy making Daniel sick, as it would us if we saw such things happen to America.

 

 

LET IT GO

Jesus' blood has set me free; the devil's got no hold on me.

He never broken promises, lot power, nor control letting go. Our God is still the same.

Are we ready to take a stand for our faith in Jesus?

A Goat and a Great Man

O. T. #2002  "A Goat and a Great Man"

August 13, 2021

Daniel 8-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

In Daniel's second vision, he saw a ram with two horns (one was larger) standing by a river at Susa. It charged north, south, and west, and no other power was able to stop it. The ram represented the Medo-Persian Empire that defeated the Babylonian Empire. Then Cyrus became king over all, a Persian.

Then a male goat appeared in Daniel's vision, not touching the ground, which meant it was moving at lightning speed in its conquest of the world. Its conspicuous horn had great power to smash the ram (Persia) and became the new world power. (verse 5-7)

This goat represented Greece with its great horn being Alexander the Great as his army of 35,000 moved conquering Persia. This was an amazing prediction because Greece was not yet considered a world power when this prophecy was given. History points out that Alex began in 334 B.C. marched across Asia Minor, defeating Persia in key battles at Granicus River and at Issus. He then captured Syria and Egypt before entering and swiftly conquering Persia.

Alexander conquered most of the populated world before he was thirty. His combination of strength, speed of conquest, and youth will stand out in history. Napoleon and George Patton are two of many military leaders who studied the strategies of Alexander in designing their own battle plans. (Quick Notes, Volume 7 of Simplified Bible Commentary Series, Daniel Thru Malachi)

LET IT GROW

Having carved out an empire of 1.5 million square miles, Alexander provoked many of his Macedonian leaders to rebellion by claiming to be a god, by merging Persian and Greek elements in his army, and by marrying Persian women. worn out by wounds, hardship and overdrinking, he fell ill of a fever. soon he could neither move nor speak. Alex was propped up and each officer and soldier filed past. He acknowledged each man with his eyes or a slight movement of his head. Within two days, Alexander died. He was not yet 33 years old. (Whitcomb)

When it is in His timing, the Lord moves swiftly in our lives, with everything falling into place. We need to be ready, always looking to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Whether we are to physically move to another place, change jobs, make a decision, or called to heaven, we must be surrendered. When we pray for His will to be done, He opens the doors and the path becomes straight. Let Jesus prepare the day for us, then walk with Him. Our assignment is to follow Jesus, allowing Him to direct our path. 

LET IT GO

Keep trusting when the path becomes rocky and steep.

Although Jesus may lead us along a road less traveled, remain depending upon Him.

Walk with Jesus along paths of Peace, enjoying the journey in His presence with His everlasting love.

Wholeheartedly follow Jesus, instead of playing it safe on our road of life.

Seek to please Jesus, and delight in doing His will.

A Mighty Ram That Isn't so Mighty After All

O. T, #2001  "A Mighty Ram That Isn't so Mighty After All"

August 12, 2021

Daniel 8

LET IT GLOW

In this chapter, Daniel records his second vision, which occurred about two years after the vision of the four beasts. Keep in mind as we go through it, these events had not  actually taken place, but would be in his future. It is to our advantage that we can read it and most of those events have already taken place.

What Daniel saw made him sick for days. (verse 17) Afterwards, he got up and performed his duties for the king, but remained greatly troubled by the vision and could not understand it.

God sent Gabriel, an angelic messenger, so Daniel understood the events he had seen in his vision and that they related to the time of the end. this is the first mention of Gabriel in Scriptures. (He announced the births of John the Baptist and Jesus of Nazareth, found in Luke1.)

Here is what happened in Daniel's vision:

• It occurred during the third year of Belshazzar's reign as king of Babylon. (verse 1)
• In his vision, Daniel was at the fortress of Susa, standing beside the Ulai River. (verse 2) Susa was about 250-350 miles east of Babylon, the capital city in which Daniel lived at this time. It was the birthplace of the Merdo-Persian Empire, and later became a common vacation spot for King Darius. Now the Ulai River was a man-made irrigation ditch that ran near Susa.
• He saw a ram with two long horns standing beside the river; one was longer than the other. (verse 3)
• The ram butted everything out of his way to the west, north, and south; no one could stand against him nor help his victims. He did as he pleased and magnified himself. (verse 4)
• The two-horned ram represented the kings of Media and Persia. They were coming to conquer the Babylonian Empire, and did just that.
• No one could rescue nor other beasts could stand before it. (Later, Persia gained power over the Medes, which were two allied nations at first.) The land acquisitions of the Medo-Persians were not typically peaceful. Frequently, they resulted in war, death, destruction, pain, and misery.
• During the sixth century B.C., King Cyrus and his military moved south toward Babylonia, Israel, and Egypt, as well as north toward the Caspian Sea, and west toward Asian Minor and Greece. The Persian Empire is the second empire revealed in the book of Daniel.

What can we gleam from this? As almost all of Daniel's prophecy has been fulfilled, we can gain confidence in Scriptures being true and reliable.

 

LET IT GROW

Daniel's prophecy coincided with that of Isaiah in chapter 45, some 150 years earlier.

You will recall that King Cyrus allowed and supported the Jews (three groups) to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the Temple, city, and their homes. We studied this back in Nehemiah. The Jews reestablished the sacrificial system and worship of Almighty God, such faithful servants of the One True Living God.

Will we remain a faithful follower of Jesus Christ, no matter who is president, no matter if America is conquered?

LET IT GO

We are more than conquerors, dear friend.

We believers must continue to overcome the tests, temptations, and discouragements in this life.

Do not be afraid of our future, for God has it.

He's got the whole world in His hands.

Where is Our Focus?

O. T. #2000  "Where is Our Focus?"

August 11, 2021

Daniel 7-Part 4

LET IT GLOW

Are we distressed by events in our world-pandemic, people dying from Covid, immoral laws being made, finances falling? Take heed, for God is in control. His rule is eternal and will never be destroyed nor end. When we focus on Him, our perceptive can change.

Before the Tribulation, saints of God will be raptured out of here. We find this in Revelation 3:10: Because you have kept the Word of My perseverance, I also will keep you from the hour of testing, that hour which is about to come upon the whole world, to test those who dwell upon the earth.

In the Greek, keep from means to preserve something outside the sphere of something else.

Jesus is telling the Christians of the Philadelphian church that He will protect them from the worldwide testing by keeping them away from it.

The hour of testing that Christ is referring to is the Tribulation, a 7-year span of severe, divine judgment that will affect the entire earth.

Unbelievers will be left behind. Then the Antichrist will be directed by Satan, establish his kingdom, will set himself up to be worshiped, being a false Christ. He will establish his own laws and religion, persecuting any who become believers in Christ during this time. (verses 21- 25)

Dear one, are you a believer in Christ Jesus today? He is only a breath away. Simply ask Him to forgive your sins, believe in your heart that Jesus is God's Son, lived a perfect life, died on the cross for you, and rose from the grave. He sits at the right hand of the Heavenly Father, making intercession for us.

LET IT GROW

After the 7-year reign of the Antichrist, then Christ Himself will return to earth a second time to reign as king for 1,000 years. Jesus will finally sit on the throne of David and rule. (Luke 1:32-33; Jeremiah 23:5-6)

Keep in mind that the Ancient of Days, our God, will still remain on His throne in heaven, working out His plan. God will have His court session to judge sinners and sin. (verses 9-10)

Those who die for the faith will be the ultimate overcomers, and will receive great rewards. God has promised to give His kingdom to His holy people, the saints, stepping in to restore and reward those who are faithful to Him..

Once and for all, Satan will be stripped of power and destroyed. This dream/vision seems to have overwhelmed Daniel. It troubled him so much that his countenance fell so he kept the matter to himself. Reasonably so, for Daniel had not read the book of Revelation.

LET IT GO

You are a good, good Father, perfect in all Your ways.

Keep us focused on You, loving and serving You today.

The Fifth Kingdom Ruler-Antichrist

O. T. #1999 "The Fifth Kingdom Ruler-Antichrist"

August 10, 2021

Daniel 7-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

We are continuing the vision in a dream that Daniel had.The leopard that had ten horns (Rome) and ten kings, suddenly had an eleventh horn appear horn appear and destroy three of the horns. (verse 8) It had eyes like a man and spoke great things.

This eleventh horn stands for the Antichrist of Revelation 13. He is both a kingdom and its personal leader. He will wage war with saints and overpower them until the Ancient of Days comes. Satan will be ruling the Antichrist, and will establish a worldwide kingdom crushing all others. Ten kings will be given power as a revived Roman Empire, controlling the politics, economy, and military. (verse 24)

According to verse 25, they will speak great words against the Most High God, will wear out the saints, will change times and laws. this will be for 3 1/2 years. This Tribulation period will last a total of 7 years.

Good News: I believe that Jesus will rapture out His church of believers before this happens.(Revelation 3:10) However, some  Jews and Gentiles will be saved after this. After 3 1/2 years of making a covenant with them, the Antichrist will break the covenant and set up his own image in the Jewish Temple. There, he and the devil will be worshiped. Those believers in Jesus will be killed for their faith. (14:9-13) God will allow all of this to take place.

The thing is, the antichrist will be wanted and not rejected, be appealing and not repulsive, will be extraordinary and not ordinary, will be a Gentile and not a Jew. (Swindoll)

Are we sharing with our family and friends salvation and hope in Jesus? Are they ready? Jesus will come when we least expect it, to take His saints home. It will happen in a blink of an eye. No time to prepare.

 

LET IT GROW

In verse 9, Daniel watched as thrones were cast down and the Ancient of Days, God, sat upon His throne to judge. How did Daniel describe Him?

• His clothing was as white as snow;
• His hair like purest wool;
• He sat on a fiery throne with wheels of blazing fire;
• and a river of fire was pouring out, flowing from His presence.
• Millions of angels ministered to Him;
• many millions stood to attend Him.
• Then the Judge began to have court in session, and the books were opened.

Next, the little horn boasted. The fourth beast was killed and destroyed by fire. The other three beasts had their authority taken from them, but they were allowed to live a while longer.

Friend, God will accomplish what He says He will do. the Bible bears this out. Countries cannot postpone or cancel God's divine plan. He has our future mapped out, and can handle our present. We may not understand why things happen the way they do, but we can certainly trust the One Ancient of Days.

Are you prepared for a life in God's glorious kingdom?

 

LET IT GO

Our God never fails.

Nothing can stand against the power of our God.

Jesus is trustworthy, truthful, the only way to heaven, an our way of life.

Four Beasts That Have Reigned

O. T. #1998 "Four Beasts That Have Reigned"

August 9, 2021

Daniel 7-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Just a reminder, this chapter took place before chapter 5. Belshazzar was king of Babylon and he had not seen the handwriting on the wall yet. Daniel was probably in his sixties. the first 6 chapters, Daniel presents history, but in the last 6 chapters, he relates the visions mainly to the future.

Daniel saw a great storm of 4 winds (spirits) churning the surface of a great sea (Mediterranean Sea) in his dream and visions one night. He wrote down the dream:

New Living Translation tells it like this about Daniel's first vision:

Four huge beasts came up out of the water:

1. A lion with eagles' wings, which were pulled off, and left standing with its 2 hind feet on the ground, like a human being. It was given a human mind, also. (Winged lions guarded the gates of the royal palaces of Babylon.) The lion is king of the beasts; the winds denoted its swiftness to conquer; it was a personal being with a man's heart. God humbled Neb and made the prideful king live like a beast for 7 years.

The lion represented Babylon and the nation's leader. (Note that Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Habakkuk used animals to describe Nebuchadnezzar.) God told Daniel that the Babylonian Empire would fall, and it did. (verse 4)

2. A bear reared up on one of its sides; it had 3 ribs in its mouth between its teeth. A voice told the bear to get up and devour many people. The bear represented the Medo-Persian rule. In 539 BC, Darius, the Mede, ruled in Babylon, then Cyrus the Persian conquered it with greater strength. (Cyrus was the king who permitted and supplied the Jews to leave and return to Jerusalem to rebuild it after 70 years of captivity.) As they marched across the battlefields, they devoured much flesh. One commentary said the three ribs were vanishing nations of Lydia, Egypt, and Babylon. (verse 5)

Even nations are subject to the power of Almighty God. Do we put our trust in governments or God? Are we allowing our government to dictate when, how, and if we assemble to worship Jehovah?

LET IT GROW

3. The leopard had four wings and four heads, which represented Alexander the Great, establishing the kingdom of Greece. It moved at lightning speed to victory over the civilized world. (Leopards lie in wait for their prey and then pounce upon their victims with great speed and agility.) Alexander conquered most of the civilized world from Macedonia to Africa and eastward to India. After Alex's early death at 32, his empire divided into 4 parts by four generals in 323 BC:

1. Palestine and Egypt went to Ptolemy I;
2. Syria was ruled by Seleucus I;
3. Thrace and Asia Minor were assigned to Lysimachus;
4. Macedon and Greece were governed by Antipater and Cassander. (verse 6)

As I looked at a timeline, I saw that during the Greek reign, philosophies popped up-Buddhism in India, Confucianism in China, many Greek gods, such Artemis at Ephesus. Then there was Sophocles the dramatist, Herodotus, the historian, the Aramaic language replacing the Old Hebrew in Palestine.

4. A terrifying, dreadful, and very strong beast crushed its victims with huge iron teeth and trampled their remains beneath its feet. It had ten horns. (Daniel had never seen such a creature like it, so it seems that he had difficulty in labeling it, doesn't it?) Rome was this beast. (Rome fell in AD 476.)

At some time in the future, 10 nations will lock arms politically, economically, and militarily, forming a revived or realigned Roman empire. (Remember that God was silent for 400 years between the Old and New Testaments. He had spoken through His prophets, whose warnings and call to repentance of sins were ignored.)

During this Roman Empire rule, Jesus Christ was born, lived, and died. During this time the Pharisees and Sadducees gained importance in Judea. The society of the pagans worshiped many other gods, yet they allowed the Jews their religion. Caesar Augustus, nephew of Julius Caesar, was emperor of Rome when Jesus was born. Herod captured Jerusalem and was appointed king of Judea. When John the Baptist began his ministry, Pontius Pilate was governor of Judea.

Then Paul was converted and had three missionary journeys to share love and salvation through faith in Jesus as Messiah. The followers and disciples of Jesus were tortured and killed for their faith. John was exiled to Patmos, where he wrote Revelation (of the end times).

Swindoll said, "The God who has mapped out our future is certainly able to handle the present. Though it may seem at times that the Lord has abandoned us, He has promised He will never forsake us. (Hebrews 13:5-6)"

*I hope this was not too lengthy or wordy, but I felt it was needful. Next time, we will study on the Antichrist and the millennial reign of Jesus Christ.

 

LET IT GO

Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven, Father God.

There is no one like You, Creator, Savior, Sustainer.

My God is greater, stronger, higher than any other.

Our God is healer, awesome in power, our God.

And if our God is for us, who can ever stop us?

And if our God is with us, what can ever stand against us?

Take courage, dear one, Jesus has overcome the world!

He's Got This

O. T. #1997  "He's Got This"

August 6, 2021

Daniel 7

LET IT GLOW

Well folks, here we are, finally reaching the last six chapters of this book. They focus on the prophetic revelations Daniel received form God, not on the lives of those Hebrew captives in Babylon. Also, these unusual visions reveal some of what God has in store for believers and unbelievers.

Up front, let me say that I am no Bible scholar, just one desiring to study God's Word and share it with others. So with a half dozen commentaries spread out on my desk, let's dive into this, looking at our God's sovereignty in human history.

We read of some background in verse 1:

• Daniel's dream and vision happened one night during the first year of Belshazzar's reign as king of Babylon. He was the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar.
• The time of this chapter is a flashback to 553 BC, which was 14 years before the feast of chapter 5. So the dream occurred after chapter 4.  (Don't know why Daniel wrote this out of sequence.)
• When looking at the contents of the dream, we see similarities with chapter 2-4 successive world empires of Babylon, Persia, Greece, and Rome.
• Both relate to events before the second coming of Christ.

A difference between Neb's dream and Daniel's is the powers' representation. Neb's statue was a glorious, awe-inspired statue, while Daniel's dream involved huge beasts coming up from the sea.

So I wonder why God gave Daniel these prophecies of the future. Maybe it was to reassure him that after half a century in a foreign land, God was still with him, still in control, and still was carrying out His plans.

Don't we need reassured when times are hard, challenging, or discouraging in our life? 

The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.          (2 Peter 3:9) 

Friend, have you come to repent of your sins and asked God to forgive you? The blood that Jesus Christ shed has been provided for us to be His child. Only believe and repent, and ask.

LET IT GROW

In his study guide on Daniel, Swindoll divides this chapter into three sections:

  1.  It speaks of wind, water, and odd-looking beasts.

  2.  It tells about thrones and judgment.

  3. It relates the interpretation of the vision.

First, Daniel sees the 4 winds (spirits) of heaven that came from the sea.  Those spirits refer to angels, by which God's sovereign actions in human history are carried out. The great sea may refer to either to Mediterranean Sea or the peoples and nations of the world. Daniel may have seen a great upheaval that is being caused by angels of judgment. (verse 2)

History tells us that the Babylon empire was conquered by the Medo-Persian empire; two other great empires which later ruled the world were Greece and Rome. We read in Revelation that the Antichrist will come to rule the world in the future, but Christ will defeat him (stone).

What can we deduct from all of this?  Since those kingdom were destroyed, we can be sure that it will happen or come to pass, that Christ will establish Himself as king and reign for a thousand years on earth. The God who has mapped out our future is certainly able to handle the present for us. His divine plans will be carried out.

LET IT GO

When He does not give the answers nor intervenes, we are going to trust our God.

We will continue to believe God's Word is Truth.

Although we may not understand all things in it, we can know God has this. 

 

Prosperity Versus Punishment

O. T. #1996  "Prosperity Versus Punishment"

August 5, 2021

Daniel 6-Part 6

LET IT GLOW

...no manner of hurt was found upon him, because he (Daniel) believed in his God. (verse 23b)

No injury whatever was found on Daniel, because he had trusted in his God.

What does that tell us? God honored Daniel's loyalty to and faith in Him. The one who trusts in God and obeys His will is untouchable until God takes him or her. To trust God is to have immeasurable peace. The God who delivered Daniel can and will deliver you and me one way or another. It may not be how we expect or could be we are taken to heaven. He is never early or late.

Then what happened?  In verses 25-27, we read what King Darius wrote to all the people, nations, and languages, saying:

• Peace (safety, prosperity, welfare, health) be multiplied unto you. When Paul wrote his letters to churches, he opened with grace and peace from God the Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.
• The king made new decree, law. (They better take notice of what the king was saying.)
• Throughout his kingdom everyone should tremble with fear before the God of Daniel.
• He is the Living(alive, that liveth) God.
• God is stedfast (permanent, sure) forever.
• His kingdom will never be destroyed.
• His rule will never end. We know that our God is eternally sovereign. He is above all nations, kings, empires, and powers.
• God delivers and rescues His people.
• He performs signs and wonders in heaven and on earth.
• He delivered Daniel from the power of the lions. Doesn't that mean that our God is all-powerful? Yes, He is!

The miracle God performed in sparing Daniel was that men were pointed to the God of miracles. His miracles are used to turn men to Him in faith.

God could have kept Daniel out of the lions' den, but He received greater glory by rescuing him. Also, God could have rescued David from the army of Saul, but chose not to do so; He could have kept Paul out of prisons and beatings, but received more glory by not doing it. And we have encouraging Scriptures because of it, too.

Dear one, God may choose not to deliver you and me from our den of lions. If that is the case, will our faith grow stronger or will we faint, grow weary in our walk? 

Set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity. (1 Timothy 4:12)  

Did you notice faith is mentioned there? Can people recognize us as a Christian by our how we talk and live, if we are loving and giving, by our faith in Jesus Christ, and our purity, actions? 

 

LET IT GROW     

Daniel's accusers were punished. They sinned against God, Darius, and Daniel. We read about it in verse 24. Those men who accused Daniel were thrown into the lions' den, as well as their children and wives. Their bones were broken before they hit the ground. This was evidence that the lions had not been drugged or overfed before Daniel was placed in their den, nor were the lions toothless or tame.

Relatives were often killed when a man committed a serious crime against the royal house in the Medo-Persian empire. This prevented possible retaliation by the criminal's family. (We see this in Esther 7.)

Evil deeds often backfire on those who plan cruelty. (Life Application Study Bible)

How did it turn out for this old prophet? He prospered in the reigns of Darius and Cyrus the Persian. (verse 28)

Daniel possessed the favor of God and men, wisdom, longevity, faithfulness, godly convictions, and steadfastness in prayer. What an example for us. What a testimony to those in power.

If you find yourself in new surroundings, take the opportunity to testify about God's power in your life. Be faithful to God so He can use you to make an impact on others. (Life Application Study Bible)

LET IT GO

Give honor and glory to the Living God who rescues and delivers and whose kingdom is forever.

Keep praying, for God hears.

Continue to be a faithful servant of Jesus no matter the consequences.

May we be careful, for our sins will find us out.

Nip It In The Bud

O. T. #1995  "Nip It In The Bud"

August 4, 2021

Daniel 6-Part 5

LET IT GLOW

If I recall correctly, Barney Fife told his boss, Andy Griffin, to "nip it in the bud" in concern for Opie to not repeat a bad action. Sometimes we need to do that for our children or grand children. So a wrong action or attitude will not continue, we must put a stop to it with discipline/correction. Today's king did so in an extraordinary way. continue reading to find out why and how of it.

King Darius was manipulated by some of his officials into making the new law so Daniel would be thrown into the lions' den to be destroyed and gotten rid of by jealous and envious men. Their prejudices were coming through loud and clear, for they did not want a foreigner to have a higher position they had in their own land.

What Daniel was guilty of was praying 3 times daily to Almighty God. They could change his name, try to change his eating food offered to idols and wine to drink, but Daniel remained faithful to the God of Israel.

Was the servant of the Living God able to deliver His continuous servant? Yes, He was. For I think it was Jesus Himself that came that night to shut the hungry lions' mouths so they would not hurt Daniel. The Lamb of God came down from heaven to rescue, deliver, and tend to His faithful servant.

What happened next?

• Darius was exceeding glad, over joyed, to hear the Good News-Jesus saves!
• The king ordered that Daniel be lifted from the den.
• No manner of hurt, not a scratch was found on Daniel, because he believed in his God.

How far are we willing to go in order to follow Jesus in His will for our life? (After all, Jesus gave His very life on a cross so we could be set free from the penalty of sin.) Such love and amazing grace!

He will command His angels concerning you to guard you.      (Ps. 91:11)

Angels exist as supernatural creatures in and about heaven, and they are frequently dispatched to earth in human form to bring encouragement and assistance. They are often invisible but never impotent. (Charles Swindoll)

I wonder if each lion had its own angel attending it while Jesus spoke to His faithful servant in a lions' den.

Do you have a story of divine deliverance to tell?

LET IT GROW

Daniel's accusers were punished and his God praised.

King Darius commanded that those maliciously accusing men of Daniel's be arrested and thrown into that very lions' den, along with their wives and children. The lions leaped on them and tore them apart before they even hit the floor of the den. (NLT)

The king was wise to "nip in the bud" any possible retaliation by the criminals' families. Also, it would deter any such drastic justice for any potential enemies. (Swindoll)

 

LET IT GO

May we be found a faithful servant of the Living God.

Keep us in Your will, Your way, Today, always, I pray.

Work on me so I will be....

Is Your God Able to Deliver You?

O. T. #1994  "Is Your God Able to Deliver You?

August 3, 2021

Daniel 6-Part 4

 

LET IT GLOW

Lions were hunted by kings for sport. the Persians captured lions and put them in parks, fed and attended. Also, lions were used to execute people.

I did not want to leave Daniel in the lions' den, but it was needful. He got there because Daniel did not yield to the new law and stop praying and kneeling to God three times a day. It disturbed king Darius that he set his heart to deliver Daniel, but to no avail. The decree could not be changed. Though he made every effort to set Daniel free, the king could not break his own law. (verses 14-15)

What did the king say to Daniel before he met the lions?

Thy God whom thou servest continually, He will deliver thee. (verse 16b)

Here was a pagan king who was never worshipped God, was suddenly giving him glory in hopes He would deliver His servant. (Tony Evans)

The next morning, very early in the morning, the king went in haste to the den of lions.

O Daniel, servant of the living God, is thy God, whom thou servest continually, able to deliver thee from the lions?

What a hope for Daniel's deliverance.

Is your God able to deliver you from whatever? Is your faith unwavering? Are we trusting God for deliverance? When the Lord does, will we give Him thanks and praise?

LET IT GROW

God has unique ways of delivering His people that we cannot imagine. He has parted seas, broke down walls, opened prison doors, and rolled a stone away.

In verse 22, Daniel reassured the king:

My God hath sent His angel, and hath shut the lions' mouths, that they have not hurt me: forasmuch as before Him innocency was found in me; and also before thee, O king, have I done no hurt.

Whew! It was over and Daniel was rescued, delivered, and alive! Daniel was found innocent of all wrongdoing by God, by divine standards. Isn't that the only judgment that really matters?

The angel or messenger who came may have been Christ. He had showed up earlier when Daniel's three friends were thrown in the fiery furnace because they would not bow down to Nebuchadnezzar's statue.

Dear friend, this tells us that Jesus can show up and do what is needed in order to deliver us from our lions' den.

The person who trusts in God and obeys His will is untouchable until God takes him or her. To trust God is to have immeasurable peace. God, who delivered Daniel, will deliver you. Do you trust Him with your life? (Life Application Study Bible)

 

LET IT GO

Keep us in Your will Almighty God.

Protect us, use us, and raise us up to be Your witness, Jesus.

May we be innocent when accused of being guilty.

Facing a Lions' Den

O. T. #1993n  "Facing a Lions' Den"

August 2, 2021

Daniel 6-Part 3

LET IT GLOW

Many times I have faced lions in the form of parents and principals using hateful words to get their way for a child. When I knew my actions were right, I did not yield. Several times I was not rehired as a teacher there. But God always provided another place of service when I remained faithful to His Word.

They couldn't find any fault in Daniel, so the conspiracy had to attack his faith and religion. Other officials went behind his back and convinced King Darius to make a new law that people could only pray to the king for 30 days or else be thrown into the lions den immediately. (The law could not be changed either.) Can't you see them laughing and jesting that they had him now, Daniel. They knew Daniel's routine was to pray to God three times a day in his house with windows open toward Jerusalem. Yep, it wouldn't be long before he was out of there, so they thought.

Daniel would not disobey God in order to please the king, though. (Do not have any other gods before the Lord God, nor bow down to them.) Those enemies of Daniel went to the king for his conviction.

That Daniel, which is of the children of the captivity of Judah, regardeth not thee, O king, nor the decree that thou hast signed, but maketh his petition three times a day. (verse 13)

When the king heard about Daniel's actions, he was deeply troubled and tried to think of a way to save Daniel. He spent the rest of the day looking for a way to get Daniel out of this predicament. However, he was unsuccessful and time came for the inevitable-throw Daniel into the lions den.

May your God, whom you serve so faithfully, rescue you, the king told Daniel. (verse 16)

Daniel knew what was ahead of him, yet he continued to show integrity by consistently walking with God. How's our walk with Him? What priority are we giving God's Word? Are we applying it? How effective is our prayer time?

LET IT GROW

Peter tells us that for the sake of conscience toward (Him) a man bears up under sorrows when suffering unjustly. (1Peter 2:19)

For what credit is there if, when you sin and are harshly treated, you endure it with patience? But if when you do what is right and suffer for it you patiently endure it, this finds favor with God. (1 Peter 2:20)

Daniel was forced to face the lions' den for acting righteously before God. Also, he did no without complaining and with a clear conscience before Darius and the Lord.

C.F. Keil described what archaeologists discovered about the lions' dens in ancient Morocco, which could have been similar to that of Darius:

It was a large square cavern under the earth, having a partition-wall in the middle of it, with a door that the keeper could open and close from above. Food was thrown into the empty chamber enticing the lions to enter and eat what was there. The vacant space could then be cleaned during that time. The cavern could be opened above so as to look down into the den. This describes what the text says in verses 16-17 regarding the lions' den.

The king spake and said unto Daniel, "Thy God whom thou servest continually, He will deliver thee."

How obvious it is that the king was friends with the elderly Daniel and did not want to do that. He was hoping God would rescue Daniel. A stone covered the mouth of the den, the king sealed it with his own signet, so it could not be changed concerning Daniel. (verse 17)

Then the king went to his palace, fasting, without music, and sleep.

We know the rest of the story. But Daniel did not know how it would turn out for him. Yet he walked and lived by faith.

 

LET IT GO

Jesus, may we walk and live by faith, serving You.

When we suffer for doing right, give us strength to carry on.

Bless Your children all over the world who suffer for the cause of Christ. with peace, love, and faith.

To You be the glory.