Scripture to Read: Daniel 4:27–37
We know God took Nebuchadnezzar through some loving discipline, but before that happened, we need to take note of Daniel’s plea to Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel says to Nebuchadnezzar in Daniel 4:27, “Therefore, O king, may my advice be pleasing to you: break away now from your sins by doing righteousness and from your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor, in case there may be a prolonging of your prosperity.” Daniel encouraged Nebuchadnezzar to repent of his sin and to walk in righteousness. Though what Nebuchadnezzar said to Daniel is not recorded, we know that Nebuchadnezzar didn’t take heed of Daniel’s plea. We read in Daniel 4:28 that everything God said would happen to Nebuchadnezzar did happen. It was twelve months later, and Nebuchadnezzar was still bragging about how he had built this impressive kingdom with his own might (Daniel 4:30). At that moment, God spoke (Daniel 4:31–32), and immediately all of God’s Word concerning Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled (Daniel 4:33). The good news is that at the end of God’s discipline (Daniel 4:34–35), Nebuchadnezzar came to his senses, repented of his sin, and praised, honored, and blessed the God of all creation. God restored Nebuchadnezzar to being king, but Nebuchadnezzar was changed, as is recorded in Daniel 4:37, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven, for all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride.” Nebuchadnezzar knew God had humbled him, and he willingly surrendered to Him as his KING!
Challenge & Application
• What happened to Nebuchadnezzar, and how did it affect his life?
• What did you learn from the trial that God took Nebuchadnezzar through, and how has it changed you?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!