SCRIPTURE: Daniel 8:15-27

OBSERVATION:
The angel Gabriel (looking like a man, yet frightening) explains that the vision applies to the future rise and fall of kingdoms (Media-Persia, Greece, Rome, etc.). Unsettling times are coming – for the world and for God’s people (v.24), not peaceful, quiet years. Gabriel assures that the rise and fall of worldly kingdoms does not happen on its own, apart from God’s control (“he will be destroyed, but not by human power”, v.25) – the times are “appointed” by God (v.19).

APPLICATION:
Just like 9/11 changed our “peaceful, quiet” world (or rather opened our eyes to see what the world is really like all over), God “appoints” the rise and fall of peace and security, always for His purpose. I am not immune from suffering, we cannot assume that “peaceful” times will always continue here in Canada, as if it is a blessing we deserve because of righteousness. Just look at the last century, and we see that this coming century may also experience tumultuous upheavals. Like Daniel, this thought can exhaust and sicken us!

PRAYER:
Lord, I do not want to be a “prophet of doom”, yet deep inside I sense that we are in for tough times ahead. Help me/us to build ourselves up in You, so that when the storm rises, our foundation is on rock, not sand. Amen.