“Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!” – Psalm 139:23-24
In today’s devo, let’s take a look at a few important points from the life of King Nebuchadnezzar, one of the other main characters in the book of Daniel.
First, from the time he was young, he had caretakers, servants, and slaves, but he wasn’t under any authority, and he always got what he wanted. He was never told no. If you refuse to be under authority or be told no, you’ll become a tyrant. If you’re raising a child, there’s an important parenting lesson here. You are the parent, and if your kid is never told “no,” they’re going to grow up and be an impossible tyrant.
Second, every one of us is Nebuchadnezzar to varying degrees. We might look at him and can’t believe he wanted to assemble a harem, live in a nice house, eat good food, and have everyone wait on him while he lived in luxury and comfort. Welcome to Scottsdale, Beverly Hills, or any other particularly rich city in America. We’re all pursuing bigger and better, with varying degrees of success.
Third, a man who can conquer anyone or anything is easily conquered by God. Nebuchadnezzar has the largest nation by might and force, and they’ve conquered entire people groups, but God can take him down in a second with just one dream. You’re not a big deal when God deals with you. Everyone needs God’s help. He has counterfeit religion and spirituality, and those do not work when you need them the most.
So, take a look at your own life. Where do you find yourself defying authority? Where are you pursuing a greater level of success at the expense of your character?
I always say that the Bible is a mirror that reflects who we are and it’s important to ask God to search our hearts and minds to see where we need to grow, learn, and change.
Take some time to reflect on the questions in today’s devo. Write out what you feel God speaking to you then pray for insight on how to grow, learn, and change to be more like Jesus Christ.
Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Visit https://realfaith.com/faq/ for privacy and terms info.