Day 246

         After Jesus healed the paralytic Luke noted that, “Everyone was gripped with great wonder and awe, and they praised God, exclaiming, “We have seen amazing things today!” (5:26). I am impacted that way when I consider the way God worked through His prophets and some of the tasks and miracles that were performed.  The section this week focuses on visions, prophecies and interpretations, and not just seeing the display of the visions but the fulfillment of the visions.

1 Chronicles 8:29-9:1a; Ezekiel 40:1-37; Daniel 4.  “Sincere God Sightings”

         ‘Nezzar had a dream that terrified him.  None of his “professionals” could interpret it for him.  Then Daniel showed up.  Daniel knew he could interpret the dream that no one else could.  Was he proud?  No.  In fact, Daniel’s reaction to the dream was that he was greatly astonished and perplexed for quite awhile and his thoughts terrified him (4:19).  Although this was the ruler responsible for the captivity and destruction of his people Daniel had genuine compassion for him.  Daniel had obviously forgiven the king and was now deeply concerned about his physical and spiritual welfare.
         What did Daniel believe about the validity of the dream’s interpretation?  Did Daniel doubt the truthfulness of the interpretation?  He was “terrified” because he knew its fulfillment was coming.  The visions these prophets experienced were very real.  They knew fulfillment was a guarantee which made it all the more powerful.  Daniel describes his reaction during one vision; “My strength left me, my face grew deathly pale, and I felt very weak.  When I heard him speak, I fainted and lay there with my face to the ground” (10:8).

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?