Introduction
Daniel 4:34–37: Today’s reading concludes the story of King Nebuchadnezzar’s second dream. In our previous readings, Nebuchadnezzar has told his dream, had Daniel interpret it, and seen its prediction come true. He now speaks after seven years of living in the wild. Nebuchadnezzar praises God as the supreme king and for restoring him to his sanity and his kingdom.
Today’s Key Verse: Daniel 4:37 GNT
“And now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, honor, and glorify the King of Heaven. Everything he does is right and just, and he can humble anyone who acts proudly.”
Read
34 “When the seven years had passed,” said the king, “I looked up at the sky, and my sanity returned. I praised the Supreme God and gave honor and glory to the one who lives forever.35 He looks on the people of the earth as nothing;36 “When my sanity returned, my honor, my majesty, and the glory of my kingdom were given back to me. My officials and my noblemen welcomed me, and I was given back my royal power with even greater honor than before.37 “And now, I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, honor, and glorify the King of Heaven. Everything he does is right and just, and he can humble anyone who acts proudly.”
Reflect
Reread verse 34. Where does Nebuchadnezzar look right before God restores his sanity? How does this compare with where he said to look right before he lost it (Daniel 4:30, from yesterday’s reading)? Reread verse 36. After Nebuchadnezzar praises God, do things return to the way they were before, or is there a difference? What does Nebuchadnezzar’s story teach about why God humbles us? Can you think of a time when being humbled has been for your own good?
Pray
Almighty God, all things are under your control. Your rule is secure; your kingdom lasts forever. Help us to live humbly, knowing that you bring us low to lift us up again. Guide us as we seek to obey your will, giving praise and honor to your glory. Amen.
Tomorrow’s Reading
Daniel 5:1–12: King Belshazzar sees a mysterious hand writing on the wall.
