Like his experience recorded in Daniel 2, Nebuchadnezzar had
another dream. Many years, approximately 30 years, had passed since that dream.
The time-lapse led some to believe he could not be the same Nebuchadnezzar.
Because, in history, there were two other kings with the same name. Through
deduction, some think that he was Nabonidus, Nebuchadnezzar III. For our intent
and purpose, speculating about Nebuchadnezzar is not as important as God's
message through this account.
In Daniel 4:4-9, Nebuchadnezzar shared about his phenomenal
personal experience. It happened at a time when his kingdom was stable and
flourishing. During this peaceful and uneventful time, he had this dream. This
passage describes him as more reasonable than his first dream.
Previously, he had refused to reveal the content of his dream
and yet expected his sages to interpret it. He threatened them with death if
his demands were not met. Thankfully, Daniel saved the day. Through the wisdom
provided by God, he gave the dream and its interpretation to the king.
This time, Nebuchadnezzar shares the content of his dream. What
is similar to his previous experience is that "all the magicians, the
conjurers, the Chaldeans and the diviners" whom he summoned could not
interpret the meaning of his dream for him. Finally, Daniel, with the
Babylonian name Belteshazzar, came before him. The delay in calling for him was
to differentiate him from the others. It emphasizes Daniel's superiority and
that his wisdom is a gift from the true God. With that godly wisdom, Daniel
interpreted the king's dream.
These verses highlight the difference between Daniel and the
other sages. They tell us that, like Daniel, we can make a difference in life
and be effective only with God's backing. Indeed, apart from God, we can do
nothing. Hence, we must abide in Him, and as we do, we shall bear fruit for His
glory.
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