SCRIPTURE: Daniel 11
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
Now then, I will reveal the truth to you… [Daniel 11:2]
Seeking nothing but each other’s harm, these kings will plot against each other at the conference table, attempting to deceive each other. But it will make no difference, for the end will come at the appointed time. [Daniel 11:27]
I this vision, Jesus gives a “heads up” to Daniel about the momentous historical events that will unfold in the region.
People have figured out the specific people and events that this chapter refers to, and I will not get into that part.
The thing that stands out for me is how (1) the Lord knows what is coming, and (2) things unfold according to a set purpose.
God is not caught off guard, Jesus is not surprised by any events in history
The rulers and kingdoms of this world can scheme and plot, but they cannot thwart God’s kingdom purpose.
The kings of the earth prepare for battle; the rulers plot together against the Lord and against his anointed one. “Let us break their chains,” they cry, “and free ourselves from slavery to God.” But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. [Psalm 2:2-4]
For false messiahs and false prophets will rise up and perform great signs and wonders so as to deceive, if possible, even God’s chosen ones. See, I have warned you about this ahead of time. [Matthew 24:24-25]
Once again, Jesus encourages His followers by showing them He knows what is coming, and that all things are working out according to a plan, God’s plan.
Political and religious leaders come and go, rise and fall, but they cannot dethrone God’s appointed king, or thwart God’s kingdom purpose.
God is rebuilding His creation and restoring His family; He is doing this through His Anointed Son, and doing it in a radical, revolutionary way.
Not with violence, military might, abundance wealth, deception or cunning (how the rulers of this world succeed).
But with grace, humility, justice, mercy, compassion… the fruit and power of the Spirit turning this world upside down, or right side up!
As followers of this Jesus, we are agents of this coming kingdom, the hands and feet of the King at work in the world.
When we speak for truth, with integrity and grace; when we serve with mercy, compassion and generosity, we are serving the rightful King of this world, and He uses our efforts to change lives, restore the lost, improve the world!
It’s all working according to plan, whether it looks like it or not.
His kingdom plan may seem weak (how can mercy triumph over worldly might?), but the meek WILL inherit the earth.
This is the encouragement I receive from Jesus today, through this reading!
We have the “heads up”, we know how story will end!
Therefore we press on in faith, serving with our King in the power of the Spirit, with words and deeds of love and mercy- for this is how the heavenly kingdom comes!
PRAYER:
Lord, show me again today how my words and deeds of love and mercy make a difference, and that You are impacting the world through my seemingly weak efforts. That’s its all working according to the Plan!
This chapter is a look ahead in time. God knows all. In the coming times the kings will rise one against the other, one more powerful and corrupt than the other. It will be like tides flowing destruction upon the land. And yet . . .
the wise too will fall. Some will stumble and in that way be purified. Those purified are spotless for the end of time. And the battle continues.
But in it all we serve a great God who knew of all these happenings and has also promised the outcome. He always is with His people. For it states once again, ‘but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.’ – the power of the evil one.
Praise God that the victory is won! And in the meantime as the battle continues, we know that He will be with us and give all that we need to endure, to live this day in His power, because also today, Jesus Is First. He will supply ‘our daily bread’. I can go forward because the victory is won. God is the Ruler – also in my life.
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
Refrain:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
At the sign of triumph Satan’s host doth flee;
On then, Christian soldiers, on to victory!
Hell’s foundations quiver at the shout of praise;
Brothers lift your voices, loud your anthems raise.
Like a mighty army moves the church of God;
Brothers, we are treading where the saints have trod.
We are not divided, all one body we,
One in hope and doctrine, one in charity.
Crowns and thrones may perish, kingdoms rise and wane,
But the church of Jesus constant will remain.
Gates of hell can never ’gainst that church prevail;
We have Christ’s own promise, and that cannot fail.
Onward then, ye people, join our happy throng,
Blend with ours your voices in the triumph song.
Glory, laud, and honor unto Christ the King,
This through countless ages men and angels sing.