Read Daniel 7:15-28
Daniel gets to interact with his vision. I suppose we do the same in our dreams, too. But Daniel’s dream was an apocalyptic prophecy that scared him to his core. That was a lot of information to see and process. We’ve all had dreams that disturb us, but Daniel’s takes the cake!
The explanation Daniel was given leaves us with more questions. Who are these rulers? When will this all come to pass? It’s not a pretty sight, however, the ending is victorious for God’s holy people. There is hope to cling to for the oppressed.
Kingdoms will rise and fall and often persecute God’s people, so let’s not focus on the “who” question. Rather, let’s focus on God’s intentions.
Our God, also known as the “Most High” intends to give his children the inheritance of an everlasting kingdom. That almost sounds like a fairy tale type ending but so much better.
Not all intentions sound favorable to God’s holy people. It sounds like God is going to allow a lot of bad stuff, described as “waging war against God’s holy people and was defeating them.” We need to be aware of the potential dangers and pressures of this world.
If you have ever felt like you have suffered for something you didn’t do, you can relate to this court scene. It depicts another of God’s intentions. Here, Daniel talks about a pretty awesome vision of how our foe’s power will be stripped away, “completely destroyed.” It may be hard to watch our enemies succeed, but God has the best plan for us unfolding every day.
My favorite intention of all would be found in verse 27. God wants and intends to be known like this–as sovereign, powerful, and great. God is everlasting, and he welcomes his holy people into his kingdom. Can you imagine the place Daniel describes, “His kingdom will last forever, and all rulers will serve and obey him.”
The book of Daniel is challenging to walk through. But there is so much beauty and truth revealed for God’s people to learn from. Don’t rush through. Take time to let the Holy Spirit speak to you heart.
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for how you speak to my heart. Help me do a better job of listening for your voice. Help me to slow down and be ready to serve you more. Help me in my understanding of this book. I am so grateful for faithful and reliable resources. Continue to reveal to me your intentions for my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
