What does it mean? only time will tell

As we end August, we come to the end of Daniel (ch10-12). There is almost too much to understand in this prophetic vision. Kingdoms, wars and power are won and lost. It appears to be a horrific future. And it was. We can look back in history to see the prophecies unfolding in the likes of Alex. The Great of Greece. While certainly interesting, it is not the point of the writing. The point is that God is in control and has a plan. We will not know this plan for certain until it occurs. But,, rest assured,, the righteous will be purified and the wicked punished. We don't know the day,, time or even year this will happen. Many have tried to calculate using Biblical clues, but failed. Jesus even said "like a thief in the night". Are you prepared? Get right now, before you cant!

What do you see?

Today we enter into the confusing part of Daniel's prophecy, Dan ch 7--9. There are strange beasts and heavenly visions. There is the angel Gabriel helping Daniel understand. Finally there is hope restored. Hindsight is perfect, but what about looking ahead. We can read and study Daniel (as many have) and interpret its meaning and what kingdoms are represented. We can see how Daniel predicted history to un fold. However, it would appear that history is not done yet. What still lies ahead for us? Christ's second coming for one. Are we ready? Are we at peace with those around us? Have we decided to truly trust God? Let your actions outspeak your words. And may you be the vessel God uses for His purpose today!

God is in control

Daniel ch4-6. What made Daniel great? After all, he was able to interpret dreams, explain visions and overcome hungry lions. God enabled him not to build up Daniel rather to show the power of God! Daniel was faithful, and for that we read of his example today. God doesn't change and is still all powerful. Our response is to trust in Him. Time after time, earthly kings see the divine power, yet they do not change. They might respect that power, but they do not change. Do we change? Intellectual knowledge and understanding is one thing. But it needs to be in your heart and actions! Daniel was obedient. He did not strive for personal glory as seen in ch5v17. Do we put credit where credit is due, or do we bask in the glory? God is all powerful and He is in control!

Daniel, an example of faithfulness.

Beginnings anew! School starts today the kids are excited. We begin a new book as well, Daniel! Ch1-3 tell about how Daniel and his friends came to be in Babylon captivity. He writes how God has blessed them and provided for them. Daniel's interpretation of Neb's dream in ch2 is quite the forshadowing of events to come. Ch3 though has something important. Daniel's 3 friends are condemned to die in a firey furnace for not worshipping the king. V16-18 show their faithfulness in God. Oh that we would all show this kind of faith. Note the king's response to their success in v28. Are we willing to die, or be "inconvenienced" for God? Will we stand up for our beliefs, or give in to pressure? The world will persecute us, but God will prevail! He gives us the example of Daniel.

Hope beyond our ability

Ezekiel 37-39, there is hope. Ch37 has the story of Ezekiel's vision of the valley of the dry bones. These bones come together and form humans again, a clear message of the restoration of God's people. Interesting that in Jesus, not a bone was broken! What is our hope in today? Our paycheck, our car, our own ability? God has bigger and better plans! Why limit yourself. If God can defeat whole armies (ch38,39), can't he see you through one day? Parts of the Old Testament might seem unrelated to us, but they matter, and they point to the solution of reconciliation that God provided through Jesus. Do we thank Him enough for this? Let me encourage you to marvel at His creation and thank Him for the work done that we could never do!

Be a willing vessel

I have continued my reading through Ezekiel, hope you have kept up. The message became very redundant, so I didn't write. But ch33 is pretty noteworthy. We have an obligation, a duty to spread the gospel to others. We will be held responsible! We are not responsible for others' salvation or acceptance. Time is drawing near, so do not delay in the relationships you have! Ezekiel's message is repentance, turn turn from wickedness! How many of us live each day thinking there will be a tomorrow? We procrastinate, we wait. We might not feel up to the task. Remember, it is not your words or efforts, it is the Holy Spirit working within you. You merely need to be the vessel. Regret is an awful feeling!

It is our responsibility!

Fickelness? That doesn't even begin to describe Ezekiel's message. He likens the people to prostitutes who pay people for their services! Reading in ch16-19, try to replace America of today for Israel of yesterday. It is not too hard or too much of a stretch! God blessed us with freedom, and we have taken His work for granted. How many of us even know Him? How many have read his word? At least we know the latest DWTS gossip. Ezekiel writes on the subject of personal accountability. We cannot blame on others, our parents, or our environs! Ch18v19 declares this to be so. Also, ch18v30 will hold us each personally accountable! Turn from your sins! It is a warning, it is not too late! Let us not abuse or misuse what God has blessed us with!