Monday; December 9


          The fourth chapter of the Old Testament book of Daniel tells a rather interesting story about the Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar.  One day the powerful king “... reflected and said, ‘Is this not Babylon the great, which I myself have built as a royal residence by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?’” (Daniel 4:30).  No sooner did the words come out his mouth that he lost grasp of reality and began living like a beast in the field.  He started grazing like a cow, he lived outdoors and became so unkempt that his hair matted up like eagles’ feathers and his nails resembled birds’ claws.  The once great king had lost his mind and his kingdom because of his arrogance.  Eventually, the king would see the error of his ways and regain his proper nature, but not without learning his lesson.  As he reflected on the return from his struggle the restored king noted, “Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven, for all His works are true and His ways just, and He is able to humble those who walk in pride.” (Daniel 4:37). 
          Each time I think of this story I cringe at what I hear coming out of the mouths of the national and international leaders.  What is being said today sounds awful close to what was said back in the Sixth Century B. C.  What will happen to our leaders if they don’t learn the value of humility and their ultimate place as servants of God?
          I don’t know if we will ever have a national leader grazing on the lawn of the White House or a ruler put out to pasture on the royal farm somewhere, but this should be a lesson to all of us about the power of God and need for national humility.
Think About It!

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