“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
Heavenly Father, this passage gives us deep peace, present hope, and fuel for our praying. It’s the story of a pagan king who was bent on destruction, pillaging, and expansion. But you were more “bent” on redemption, loving, and expanding your Kingdom. You broke, humbled, and silenced Nebuchadnezzar. Then he spoke about you with words we need to take to heart, and take into this day.
Thank you for doing as you please, Father, and not as we beg, nag, and demand. You do all things well, not to make our lives easy, but to fill the earth with your glory. When we under-believe the Gospel and over-fixate on our fears, you remain steadfast in your love and faithful to your promises.
Like Nebuchadnezzar, we are in constant need of getting low and acknowledging your sovereign rule over all things—over Russian leaders, the Ukraine’s children, and the Day Jesus returns. Nothing happens beyond the reach and reasons of heaven. This doesn’t give us control or eliminate our sense of vulnerability, but it does give us peace and hope.
Father, forgive us when we doubt your goodness. Help us when we struggle with your hiddenness. Replace our vexation with adoration and neighbor love. You gave us Jesus, surely we can trust you for everything else. So Very Amen