Daniel 4:26

New International Version (NIV)

The command to leave the stump of the tree with its roots means that your kingdom will be restored to you when you acknowledge that Heaven rules.

For Meditation

Heaven rules! Many times we forget this. I have watched people sit on television making proclamations as if they set the dates and times of this world. Presidents and officials of state plow their way around as if they own their nations. Their surrogates speak with impunity like time has ceased and that they live in eternity. But the worst of it is when we enter the church and hear the clergy speak. I have often wondered if we humans learn anything. O that God would arise like He did in Nebuchadnezzar’s time.

God gave unusual power and authority to the king of Babylon over the nations. But the more God revealed future events to Nebuchadnezzar and showed him that He, Jehovah, was the source of all that power and authority (Dan. 2:31-45; 4:4-27), the more arrogant and brutal the king became (3:1-23; 4:29-30). Finally, God drove him into the bush where Nebuchadnezzar lived like an animal until he lifted his eyes to heaven and acknowledged that “Heaven rules” (4:23). That’s when he was restored. Nebuchadnezzar praised the Most High, and honored and glorified Him who lives forever. He acknowledged the eternal and enduring dominion of God, the nothingness of all humans before Him, God’s sovereign rule over heaven and earth, and the inability of anyone to restrain Him from what He chooses to do (34-35).

The temptation to get there is very subtle. It creeps on us with the little achievements and acknowledgements. When unchecked, the praise of others distorts our vision and we begin to see how different we are from everybody. It takes us to “a high place” where, in an instant, Satan shows us “all the kingdoms of the world” and demands worship in exchange for it all (Lk. 4:5-6). The dazzle sweeps us away and the big talk begins. Pride and arrogance creep in and our downfall begins; but we do not see it.

Jesus is the King of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 19:16). “For in Him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through Him and for Him” (Col. 1:16). He brings down rulers from their thrones, but lifts “up the humble” (Lk. 1:52). Jesus rules!

1. So, why all this arrogance, especially, in His church?
2. Where is His recognition and honor?
3. Where is the fear of God?
4. Is anybody awake to the recent world events?
5. Does anybody understand the times we live in and what to do (1 Chron. 12:32)?

I pray the Lord to forgive all of us and help us to be humble before Him.

May His refreshing times come upon all who hear Him and take heed; and may all glory and honor rise to Jesus in all things till He comes.

Acknowledging that God rules over all things is wisdom and humility.

Shalom