“I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal… He does as he pleases among the angels of heaven and among the people of the earth. No one can stop him.” Daniel 4:34-35
Lord Jesus, this story gives us deep peace, present hope, and faith-fuel for living in a world that often feels so out of control. Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king bent on destruction, buckled under the “weight of grace”; because you are much more “bent” on redemption.
Jesus, thank you for doing as you please—not as we beg, nag, wish, and pray. You always “do all things well” (Mark 7:37)—when we see it, when you hide it, when you delay it. While we under-believe the Gospel and over-believe our fears, you remain steadfast in your love and faithful to your promises. Thank you.
You are sovereign over Russian leaders and Ukrainian children, fiery furnaces and hungry lions (Daniel 3:8-25; 6:1-29)—over the things we wish had never happened to us, and our stories that are yet to be written.
Nothing happens beyond the reach and reasons of heaven. This doesn’t eliminate our sense of vulnerability and mystery; but it does give us an anchor in a sea of chaos and consternation. Jesus, forgive us when we doubt your awareness and goodness. Thank you for understanding when we reply to heartache like Martha did. “Lord, if you had been here,” this hard thing would not have happened (John 11:21).
Jesus, help us when we struggle with your hiddenness, timing, and ways. You laid down your life for us; there is no greater love, or Lord. So Very Amen.