Daniel 2:14–23

Introduction

Daniel 2:14–23: In today’s reading, Daniel tries to prevent the execution of King Nebuchadnezzar’s advisers by meeting to explain the king’s dream. Daniel asks his friends to pray for God to reveal its meaning, which God does that same night. He then praises God for his incomparable wisdom and power and for answering his prayer.

Today’s Key Verse: Daniel 2:22 GNT

[Daniel said:] “He reveals things that are deep and secret; he knows what is hidden in darkness, and he himself is surrounded by light.”

Read

¹⁴ Then Daniel went to Arioch, commander of the king’s bodyguard, who had been ordered to carry out the execution. Choosing his words carefully, ¹⁵ he asked Arioch why the king had issued such a harsh order. So Arioch told Daniel what had happened.¹⁶ Daniel went at once and obtained royal permission for more time, so that he could tell the king what the dream meant. ¹⁷ Then Daniel went home and told his friends Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah what had happened. ¹⁸ He told them to pray to the God of heaven for mercy and to ask him to explain the mystery to them so that they would not be killed along with the other advisers in Babylon. ¹⁹ Then that same night the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a vision, and he praised the God of heaven:²⁰ “God is wise and powerful!²¹ He controls the times and the seasons;²² He reveals things that are deep and secret;²³ I praise you and honor you, God of my ancestors.

Reflect

Reread verses 16–18. What is Daniel’s plan? When he obtains permission to meet with the king, does he know the dream’s meaning yet? Daniel seems to be using his wisdom and discretion to act faithfully when he has not yet received clear guidance. What does this say about Daniel’s trust in God, especially given Nebuchadnezzar’s reaction (from yesterday’s reading) to the advisers who failed his test? What can Daniel’s example teach us about seeking wisdom from God?

Pray

Lord God, you know all things; from you no secrets are hidden. Stir in me a hunger for your wisdom and make me fit to see by your light. Guide me in my dealings with others, that my words and actions may reflect your glory. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Daniel 2:24–49: Daniel tells and explains the king’s dream.