…Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. 21 He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. —Daniel 2:20-21
Behold a song of praise for God’s mercies. Daniel, who has received extraordinary grace from the Lord, was not delivered from the human fear as he found out the risks he was exposed to (v. 17). Even so, he trusted in the faithful God el ha-ne’eman and his faith was not in vain. The God of Daniel would never expect him not to be afraid, but to say as David said (Psalm 56:3): When I am afraid, I put my trust in you. Daniel trusted God, who is supreme above all.
This story has been recorded in God’s word so that you and I would be edified. Let’s review the context: the wisest could not decipher the dream of Nebuchadnezzar (v. 10). The wise men of Babylon (including Daniel and his companions) would be killed (v. 13). Daniel asked the king for an opportunity to provide an interpretation (v. 16). Daniel asked his companions to pray (v. 17), and appeals to the mercies of God so they would be delivered from death (v. 18). God revealed the mystery to Daniel and Daniel blessed God (v. 19).
Daniel’s conclusion should be ours as well (v. 21): All the variables in life’s equation are in the hands of my God: events, people and abilities.
Events: Who determines the death (and life) of Daniel and his people?
People: Who allows Nebuchadnezzar to execute judgment?
Abilities: Who reveals mysteries to Daniel?
God does. If God is for us, who is against us? We can come to the same conclusion as Daniel.
Child of God, your life is filled with experiences like this. You may not have mysteries revealed to you in dreams, your life may not be saved miraculously from the judgment of a great king, but if you recognize that to God alone belong Power and Wisdom, and that He determines all things, and that you can ask His people to pray with you; then you will see clearly that He guides you by paths of righteousness.
It is your choice: Continue to fear the horrors that threaten your everyday existence, or live a life of trusting God and blessing the One who plans good for you in every situation.
Do you live in fear, expecting that something evil is coming? Remember: He changes times and seasons.
Does it frighten you that your well-being depends on someone else? Meditate on this: He removes kings and sets up kings.
Are you discouraged because the wise people of this world don’t have the solution for you, or because you alone cannot determine what to do? Rest in the knowledge: He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding.
So shout to all: Blessed be the name of God forever and ever. Pray, so He may allow you to honor Him always, regardless of what is at stake or how clearly you see the solution. Daniel was no more favored than you and he chose to trust God.