I’ve just been reading and thinking upon the many lessons found in Daniel 4, about King Nebuchadnezzar. While we may not like to admit it, there seems to be a bit of the fleshly Nebuchadnezzar heart attitude in us all to some degree. A few quick observations from Daniel 4 which I hope encourage you:
- Life’s circumstances and direction can change very quickly, yet the Lord is overseeing and governing it all, even though we may not recognise or feel His presence
- The Lord is gracious with us, even when we are not responding to Him as He wants. He preserves our lives so that we can change for His glory
- The Lord has a time-table for us, which He keeps perfectly synchronised with His will and plans for us (Eph 1). His plans never fail.
- Every period of difficulty, even suffering, has an end.
- No circumstance in life, good or painful, is without a God directed purpose which is to redirect us and grow us into being more God focused and God honouring. So our character and words will better express His character.
- When the times of refreshment come, and they will come, and they do come, enjoy the wonder and joy of speaking well of the Lord (Praise) and being able to express His glory in ways you could not do had you not gone through the painful periods
- Finally, realise you are not alone! As well as having the presence of the Lord, we have one another.
Daniel 4:37 Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honour the King of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; and those who walk in pride he is able to humble.
Be encouraged to persevere and grow in your faith beloved. Recognise God in everything and appreciate the fellowship of each other. Pray for and actively encourage one another in some way today.