In this chapter King Nebuchadnezzar has another dream only Daniel is willing to interpret, and is a prophecy about God humbling the king.
“Then Daniel… was dismayed for a while, and his thoughts alarmed him… and said, ‘My lord… The tree you saw… it is you, O king, who have grown and become strong… It is a decree of the Most High, which has come upon my lord the king, that you shall be driven from among men, and your dwelling shall be with the beasts of the field. You shall be made to eat grass like an ox… till you know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will. And… your kingdom shall be confirmed for you from the time that you know that Heaven rules. Therefore, O king… break off your sins by practicing righteousness, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed, that there may perhaps be a lengthening of your prosperity.’ ” (v19-20, 22, 24-27)
Daniel is “alarmed” and “dismayed” when he hears the dream and receives its interpretation. He also speaks with language and tone that shows his deep respect and care for the king. One can assume that Daniel valued the king as a friend / neighbor made in God’s image, and grieved the future consequence of his sin (pride).
Daniel speaks the truth in love, not obfuscating or withholding the dream’s interpretation. He also pleads with the king to repent of his sin and turn to God, acknowledging that He is mighty and sovereign over all of creation – including Nebuchadnezzar’s earthly kingdom.
I don’t know about you, but I certainly need to be a little more bold, yet respectful, caring and loving toward my neighbors. I need to speak the truth in love, desiring that they draw nearer to God, and repent from any habitual sin in their life. Of course we can only do this well with the Holy Spirit’s help (His ‘fruit’), otherwise we’ll come across as being ‘condemning’ or ‘judgmental’.
Father God, our Most High and Sovereign Lord, how great are Your signs and how mighty are Your wonders. Please empower us through Your Holy Spirit to rebuke our neighbors in love and truth, encouraging them to repent of any sin, and enter into Jesus’ present / future kingdom. May the joy we find in You be contagious and open the world’s eyes to Your lovingkindness, and may Your dominion endure from generation to generation. Amen.
~ Conqueror in Training