Daniel 4:34 - "At the end of that time, I, Nebuchadnezzar, raised my eyes toward heaven, and my sanity was restored. Then I praised the Most High; I honored and glorified him who lives forever."
Things to think about:- If you have time, read Daniel 4 in its entirety. It provides all of the context that leads up to Nebuchadnezzar's comment above.
- Nebuchadnezzar (hereafter referred to as "the king" because I can't keep typing his whole name :-)) had a dream that he didn't understand. Daniel had already correctly interpreted one dream and so the king went to him again for wisdom.
- Daniel warned him to turn from his sin and wickedness so that perhaps he could avoid the ruin that his dream foretold (verse 27)
- 12 months later the king was full of pride and boasting of his wealth and power (vv 29-30)
- while the words were still on his lips, the prophecy of his dream was fulfilled. He was separated from all people and lived like an animal for seven "times" (years?) (vv 31-33)
- Finally the king raised his eyes toward Heaven and his sanity was restored. He praised and honored God (v 34)
- God provided the king with a very clear warning from a trustworthy source. He even gave him 12 months to get it together.
- Why is our tendency to ignore the truth about ourselves?
- Are you getting warnings currently about things you need to change?
- I'm glad I'm not rich and famous. I am sure my nature would have me being boastful and conceited.
- do you ever waver on Who is the source of your well-being? Isn't it easy to believe it is the work of our own hands?
- Daniel's warning was to "Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed." (verse 27)
- sins of commission and omission. As we have seen on many occasions, God's heart is with the poor and oppressed.
- When the king finally raised his eyes to Heaven his sanity was restored.
- Is your life driving you crazy?
- How can putting God first restore your sanity?
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