How delusional we are if we think we are in control.
How delusional Nebuchadnezzar was to think he was in control.
Any power he had was given to him by the Lord and could be and would be taken away by the Lord.
Paige said Nebuchadnezzar was impressed but not transformed. He still thought, somehow, that he was in control.
Paige compared his reaction to Betsie ten Boom’s reaction when Corrie had a bad dream of their family being carried off in a cart to a dark place. Corrie asked Betsie if she thought the dream would come true.
“I don’t know,” Betsie said softly. “But if God has shown us bad times ahead, it’s enough for me that He knows about them. That’s why He sometimes shows us things, you know — to tell us that this too is in His hands.”
Corrie and Betsie ten Boom
West End provided such good questions. Perhaps they had access to Paige’s notes because of the snowstorm. I will use some of them — they are optional to the green group, but I’ll put them in red.
Again, we’ll follow her outline instead of the days of the week, so you can go at your own pace.
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
Rest in God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18)
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do?
Praise:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above.
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you?
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond?
Proclamation:
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
16. Listen to Paige up to her reading of Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
17. What conjunction in verse 28 is important for us to see and why? How does this relate to Betsie ten Boom’s comment? To your life in this darkening world today?
Realities of God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:31-45
18. Read Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
19. Listen to Paige up to her final reading and share what stands out to you and why?
20 She said not to over-analyze the statue but to get the main point. What is the main point that Nebuchadnezzar should have gotten and which we must get?
21. How does the Rock differ from the kingdoms of gold, silver, bronze, and iron/clay? What does that mean to you?
22. What did Paige mean when she said, “If we realize all we have is a ‘tear down’ we can use it for the eternal purposes of people.” Application?
23. What was her point about the identical church services before and after the 2016 election?
Response to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:46-49
26. What stands out to you from the text and why?
27. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture and share what stands out to and why.
28. Does it seem ridiculous that Nebuchadnezzar could hear this from the Lord and only be impressed but not transformed? Can you see that this proclamation is as much about our future as it was about his? And, as such, can you give concrete examples of how this truth should not only impress but also change you?
29. What are some ways Paige exalted Christ to melt our hearts with His beauty in her closing?
136 comments
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
Maybe, at times. When I dream bad things about a loved one, I get anxious. My mom knew a bit about dreams, being a psychologist, and used to say that it meant I truly loved that person. Rarely do my dreams come true, and only every so often do I believe God is talking to me.
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
Most of my dreams are just random things jumbled together, but a few times in my life, my dreams have had a significance. They definitely are a mystery.
This study is so good and we are only in Chapter 2. and Tim Keller’s sermon was good as well. So much great information between them.
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why? – I don’t dream too much, but I’ve had a few dreams that I remember and were pretty spot on to events that had either already passed or were to come. One was of a car going into a pond and I immediately thought it may have been one of my boys, but it ended up being a friend’s son, he swerved on a curve and went in the pond, he was ok. The other was a vision of my dad who was sick in a casket, and he did pass away. They both had me praying hard for safety for the one in the pond and for the Lord to not linger in taking my Dad, he was suffering and ready to go.
Wow, Julie. I’ve never had, I don’t think, a prophetic dream. Mine are more on the order of Ecclesiastes: With many cares come many dreams. Things I’m worried about turn up in dreams but I can never fix them — they just get worse!
Oh, Julie. Those are real messages from heaven. Thank you for sharing.
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why? – I really liked when she said Nebuchadnezzar was awed but not transformed. That really made me think. How many times, do I do that, but still stay stuck in my ways.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12) – He was just going to kill them all. He had no time left in his mind to wait around for an answer. His anger was turning into an unrealistic outcome for what could not be done by any man.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why. – The uncontrollable anger that Neb… had. This makes me really think about my decisions when I’m angry. His solution was so out of line, but his anger made him not even hear what he was saying. I need to make a point of stepping back, staying silent and waiting when I’m angry. This will help me to not do or say something that is not what God has intended to come out in that specific situation.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point? – She was upset because she was not in any of the pictures and not at their wedding. She thought they didn’t love her and wasn’t going to invite them to her wedding LOL. She was getting upset over something, a situation that was impossible to happen. She didn’t have control over it, but it made her upset because of it.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this? – The biggest times for me is when I see injustice toward the helpless, especially children. I usually will say Lord, why??? Another time would be when I wanted a certain job that came up and I applied for it. I ended up not getting it and it deflated me. But in the end, it was a good thing that He stopped it. He had and always does have something better. I will step back from it and thank him for not letting it go through. I tend to ask God for things in my prayers and maybe now that I’m thinking and writing about it, it may come across as an ultimatum and selfish on my part. I remember asking him regarding my dad, if you aren’t going to heal him then take him. Hmm, was it me being selfish since I was not the only one in my family or loving and not wanting him to suffer. Lord help me to always be sincere in my prayers to you. Help my conversations with you to not be selfish in any way. See my heart Lord when I pray and bring out to me when I’m wrong in asking. In your mighty son’s name I pray. Amen.
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
First of all, I struggle sleeping so I can totally relate to the king not being able to sleep! Ugh!
Secondly, it’s scary that you could just be killed for something you had no control over.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
He starts with they will be torn limb to limb and their houses turned into rubble. Then he goes to they will be killed!
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
—I don’t find significant meaning in my most if my dreams. They feel pretty random although I can relate some to what may be going on in my life. And occasionally they include being back in places like my childhood home and with people in my life who have passed away like my dad and my grandparents. It seems I am often trying to get somewhere or get something done and it ends up being an exercise in futility. But they are not troubling to me when I wake up. I just don’t connect much significant meaning to most of what I dream and I remember very few.
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
—As I reread this passage the same thing stands out to me as last week when we studied with Keller. Verse 11 stood out to me where the wise men and astrologers in addressing Nebuchadnezzar said “The thing that the king asks is difficult, and no one can show it to the king except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh.”“
This was a clear test of whose “god(s) was real and therefore stronger. Theirs or Daniel’s. They acknowledged they couldn’t even communicate with their gods whose dwelling was not with flesh. That kind of says it all about the impotency of their false gods.
The contrast is stark in comparison to Daniel’s God as we see later.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
—At the beginning of her teaching she made a statement that I thought was particularly profound.
“Our world and our lives globally and personally are determined by God’s Sovereignty. Our hearts are determined by our response to that.”
Then she went on to explain the “unhinged demands” of Nebuchadnezzar in comparison to the “unwavering dependence” of Daniel and his friends.
She said “Nebuchadnezzar is completely falling apart because he knows he can’t control everything. Daniel is completely at peace because he knows he can’t control anything.
Rage and rest were the different responses to the same reality. “
Her point that “The real us is who we really are in the first moments after a crises.
What she shares about Daniel who in the haste of all the moment staked his flag and then went and fell down before God and how he prayed says so much to me about my responses and what they need to be and how to pray. Darn! Just too much to reiterate. It all stands out as so very good and great examples for us as we examine the life of Daniel.
*4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
—That was a delightful story illustrating and comparing Nebuchadnezzar’s tantrum to a 4 yr. old. 😀
Paige’s Question
Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
—My most recent was what I have shared here this past year regarding my Mom still alive in a small care home. My sister and I both felt it would be so much better of God to take her home to Heaven. But as we were troubled by her still being with us in such a very diminished capacity and prayed that He take her home that has not turned out to be his will and 15 months later now at 99 she is still alive. In that process as my sister and I prayed together with tears over Mom’s situation He gave us both peace. Like Daniel we have found rest in the sovereignty of God and that is the word we have now often used regarding Mom’s situation.
So thankful that you and your sister have peace about your mom’s situation. I am sure she is still touching hearts of her caretakers. So sweet.
Love your stories, Bev. and your mom at 99! Having worked in a nursing home for many years, I have encountered several delightful older men and women. Oh, they just touched my heart ever so goodly (is that a word?) I have a real good friend at church and she just turned 96!
Bev, when my grandmother was in a similar situation my aunt, who is a nurse, said that these patunts are a blessing to others by giving them the opportunity to give sacrificial love and care to someone who can’t give back.
patients, not patunts
I think this is common Bev:
It seems I am often trying to get somewhere or get something done and it ends up being an exercise in futility. But they are not troubling to me when I wake up.
I used to always dream I couldn’t get to a retreat site — the cabbie was confused and I’d be dropped at the wrong hotel… I attributed to my lifelong anxiety about being late!
Bev, so glad that you both have found peace in the situation with your mom. God is so caring and loving to us all.
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
My Mom shared dreams she would have and one of them took place while we were in Africa. She had a dream that one of the missionary kids that was back in the states was in a bad car accident and it woke her up with a start and she immediately started praying for this girl. She went over to the home of the girls parents and told them they needed to get a hold of their daughter to see if she was ok. It turned out that she was in a car accident at the same time my Mom was awakened and started to pray. She was ok, but had to go to the hospital for treatment. My Mom taught us that if we’re awakened from a dream about someone to get on your knees and start praying as you never know what may be going on in that person’s life. I have not had something happen like what my Mom experienced but I have been awakened from a dream about someone and I pray.
Oh, Sharon! The Lord was definitely speaking to your Mom! I do believe in these kinds of dreams. This gives me chills.
Oh, wow, Sharon! Yes, we need to pray when someone comes to our dreams. You are right, that might be a clarion call from God and letting us participate in the joy of answered prayers.
Wow — what a story, Sharon!
Sharon, what an obedient prayer warrior your mom was and such good advice to pass along to you all.
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
I loved Betsy’s answer to Corrie about dreams. I do feel that there are times when God brings warnings and times when God brings comfort through dreams.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
The king went from having a troubled spirit and being anxious to understand the dream, to having a meltdown and giving orders to destroy all the wise men in the kingdom, because none could tell him his dream and interpret it.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
He can’t understand why the gods are not working for them. He is powerful, fearful and arrogant. He is trying to manipulate God. He is one frustrated human being finding out he is not in control. And he is throwing a tantrum/.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
She was upset that she was not at her parents’ wedding. She was having a tantrum over the impossible and being told it is impossible only made her more angry. She, like the king, did not accept not being in control.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
When I am in pain or waiting on Him to answer a prayer and the answer never comes. I question “Why God?” “I don’t understand”. I have repented later, when I had been desperate for an answer to prayer that was causing so much pain in my life, I felt that I could not bear it. God is in control and He does answer prayers with “no” or “not yet”. Looking back, I have had “no” answers to prayer that proved to be a huge blessing. I need to leave control to God, He is sovereign; He knows His plans for me. I need to trust in Him ~ His will is always best.
I too loved Betsie’s answer!
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
Almost all of my dreams are a jumble of unrelated incidents. I vaguely remember some that were consequences of worries of the day, perhaps. One dream that stood out to me was when Richard and I were newly married (35 years ago). He left me for another woman and the dream felt so real that he shook and woke me up because I was sobbing. That day, I met with a friend who invited me to lunch. Over our meal, she told me that her husband was leaving her for another woman! I told her about my dream and I could tell her honestly, “I understand”. Our grief was still palpable during our time together; she with a real loss and me, because I felt the horribleness of it for her and for me if I were in her place.
This is amazing Bing…God put within your heart through a dream, a preparedness to have empathy for your friend!
So interesting Bing!
God provided the empathy to you that she needed at that time. Sad and rewarding all in one?
Oh, Bing. God spoke to you so that you were prepared to help your friend. He prepares your path before you know what you are facing! wow!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why? Most of the time I don’t remember dreaming. Every once in a while I will have a dream right before I awaken that later seems to have some significance.
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why? That the king’s request was unreasonable and after being told no man can interpret he just becomes more angry and adamant. How stubborn we can be if we don’t get our way.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12) 1. He wanted Interpretation without telling the dream. When the astrologers say it can’t be done, the king says he will cut them into pieces and tear down their homes. When they are still unable to interpret, the king wants to execute all the wise men in Babylon.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why. Our hearts determine our response to God’s sovereignty. A reminder when I don’t understand things and when prayers seem unanswered, that God is in control.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point? Her daughter was upset that she wasn’t in her parents wedding pictures and was angry enough to say her mom couldn’t come to her wedding. God is in control. Even when my finite mind can’t understand things, God is still in control and His ways are higher than my ways.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this? I think I should make myself more aware when my prayers are trying to control. My son wants to leave a job he’s worked at for 11 years and start own business. I hate to see him lose security in the job for the unknown so there are days I pray he likes his job better. I need to let go and trust God to work what’s best in son’s life. Years ago when a family member was quite ill, I prayed if God would save her I would commit to finding out if He was real and what He was like. He did and I did.
So interesting about your bargaining prayer — and so glad you followed through!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why? I only find them significant in how they make me feel. If I wake up crying, it bothers me. If I wake up scared, I’m relieved that it’s only a dream. If I dream that I’m continually drinking water, but am still thirsty, I wake up with a dry throat and mouth! I’ve never found my dreams to be predictions of anything.
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why? I’m wondering what a Chaldean is. Is it a nationality? A religion? What makes them different from magicians, enchanters or sorcerers?
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12) He wants them to tell him his dream as well as the interpretation. That is impossible for any person. He went from telling the group that they would be torn limb from limb if they couldn’t meet his demand to saying that he was going to kill all of the wise men in the land.
Dawn, I had the same question😊. If you go to Got Questions and ask “Who are the Chaldeans in the Bible?” you will find a very thorough answer.
Thank you, Bev. I will do that.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why. The psychology behind Nebuchadnezzar’s request and response. I never thought about how his demands were fueled by the fear of loss of control. Also, I jotted down some of the people that she mentioned were people that she has learned about this book of the bible from. I’ve only heard of (and listened to) Sinclair Ferguson. I’m going to look into the others.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point? She threw a tantrum because she wasn’t at Paige’s wedding. The point is that her daughter was having a meltdown over an unreasonable expectation, not understanding that what she expected was totally impossible. That’s exactly what Nebuchadnezzar was doing.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this? I can recount times in the past when I would get very frustrated with what I defined as knowing God’s will, but it was pretty much that I expected that if I did XYZ, then God would bless my life. When my life wasn’t going so well, I took that to mean that I wasn’t being shown what XYZ was because if I was then I would do it and my life would go well.
I have repented of this and matured in some ways, but I always have to keep an eye out for my tendency to want to know the why behind what happens in my life and the feeling that I can somehow change it. It’s definitely an I want to be in control thing.
Good to write down her references to commentators for she is so wise.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
She says our whole world and lives are determined by God’s sovereignty. Our hearts are determined by our response to that. I tend to forget I am not in control. He is. There is His reasoning for everything that happens in my life.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
Her daughter was not in any of the pictures. She wanted the impossible and was angry that she couldn’t have it.
The king wanted to be in control and he wasn’t. When he realizes he isn’t in control he gets madder and madder. He is a sovereign king who isn’t sovereign.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
Definitely with our daughter, and our children. It’s so disappointing. Why, oh Lord why? I feel like I have always tried to be the best mom to them and it doesn’t seem to matter. One has no real job after spending $200,000 on an education. She is basically a bully and I feel like I am a hostage to her in my own home. The world took hold of our kids and made them into what so see today, it wasn’t us! The grands are getting older and realizing some of this too. That is especially hard. I will not lie to them! But, the truth is difficult.
I have not repented to God for not trusting Him. Hmmmm🤔. Maybe I need to do that?
Lord, give wisdom to Laura and peace into her life and household. Let her see the fruit daily of the prayers she offers to you. In Jesus name.
Oh Laura — breaks my heart that you feel hostage to your daughter in your own home. I applaud you for loving so well with a child who has mental handicaps. We all need to pray for you like Judy spontaneously did.
Oh Laura, I will be praying for God to provide wisdom to you and to take away the burden(s) of what is not yours to carry.
Thank you ladies, for your kind words and praying. I prayed for our children before I posted this here; probably last Monday or Tuesday. Guess what?!!! Our son called me today and told me he got a “real” job!! I am so happy for him (and us to be honest….we are paying upwards of $1600/mo on the college bill since he has been out of work). I really believe our prayers were answered. He needed to know what it feels like to not have everything given to him, to have to work really hard, and to trust. God’s timing, not ours! Thanks be to God!! 🥰
Laura, I join the others in praying for you and your family. You give so much! I am thankful to read that you had such a great answer to prayer with your son. Praise God!!!
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
What stands out to me is how troubled the king was to know the dream. I’m sure he had many dreams but why did this one trouble him so much and why did he have it at this time? It tells me that God can use anyone at anytime in anyway to make His plan known.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
He wants someone to tell him what the dream was, which is humanly impossible before they give an interpretation and if they can’t then he’ll tear them from limb to limb and have their houses laid in ruins. They insist that this is impossible and to just tell them what the dream was and with this the king becomes angry and furious and commands that all the wise men of Babylon be destroyed.
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
The king who is ruler over the world at that time isn’t sovereign at all.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
She threw a tantrum because she wasn’t in any of the pictures. She is asking for the impossible which is making her angry, just as Nebuchadnezzar did in wanting someone to tell him his dream.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
I was really angry at God when our son died.
I’m going through a situation right now that has caused me to question if I’m being unreasonable and doing it to be in control, because as Paige said, “control issues aren’t due to being controlling but that we know we can’t be in control. God and I are having some good conversations through this and I really need His wisdom and guidance. It can’t be about me but I do want to be in His will. Prayers appreciated 🙏😊
Father, please give Sharon wisdom in this situation!
Praying for you Sharon as you have asked. And trusting God to lead you and encourage you.
Lord, be with Sharon as she cries out to you. Help her to feel your presence as you guide her in the direction you want her to go.
Father God, Please speak to Sharon’s heart and give her wisdom, discernment and good counsel in what is going on in her life. We Praise You Lord and thank you for hearing the prayers of our hearts.
Thank you all so much for your prayers. It means more to me than words can express🙏❤️
Prayers, Sharon, for wisdom and clarity.
Just seeing this Sharon. I will pray. I can’t imagine what it’s like to have a child die. I would certainly question God. Love you sister! ♥️🙏
I would like to receive these comments and study questions.
Connie — are you still getting so many e-mails? I suspect it is because you checked the 2nd box. I unsubscribed but let me know it you are okay now or if you want me to resubscribe you — but then don’t check that box! 🙂
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
Daniel asks his friends to pray that God reveals the “secret” of the dream. The dream is revealed to Daniel. God is faithful.
I also think it’s funny he asks why the king has requested such a harsh punishment. Doesn’t he know the king could do anything he wants? Just kidding, but Daniel seems to be making fun of the king for creating a harsh punishment for something so little as a dream.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
The king is one who thinks he is it all and has it all. Daniel is totally dependent on God.
Rest in God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
—First Verse 14 is what stands out to me in how Daniel responded when Arioch the Captain of the king’s guard came to kill him and his companions. It says he handled the situation with wisdom and discretion. He was so rational in a time of real crises. Then immediately went to God in prayer for the answer but he also enlisted the prayers of his friends. I think that is a good lesson for us to seek prayer from godly pray-ers when our lives are in crises.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
— As Paige said “Nebuchadnezzar is completely falling apart because he knows he can’t control everything. Daniel is completely at peace because he knows he can’t control anything.”
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why
—Her teaching on Daniel’s prayer of praise is so encouraging to be reminded of the power and necessity of praise. She said it is theological center of the passage. “Not just a nice thing but a very necessary thing for us. Not a necessary thing to God but to me. It focuses my heart and mind on Him and refocuses our perception of our lives.“ I often need to refocus.
Praise:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God. Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above.
—The world around us is so dark like it would have been for Daniel and many things threaten our security and our hopes and dreams. It would be easy to despair but for God!
RED QUESTION by Paige
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you?
—Because God not only knows all things but He can do all things. And He does it all perfectly. There is great security in the sovereignty of God. Like Daniel I can depend on God.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond?
—Taking a position of humility before God and the king was wise. Daniel in truth gave credit where credit was due to God alone but he also deferred to the king who could easily have been threatened by someone with such knowledge as Daniel was given.
From Bev:
—The world around us is so dark like it would have been for Daniel and many things threaten our security and our hopes and dreams. It would be easy to despair but for God!
Rest in God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why? – I’ve been going through the Bible again this year and following along with the Bible Recap and I always wondered why when God changes names they go back and forth using them. In the commentary for the Bible Recap she said that it could mean to let us know which ‘version’ of the person is being referred to. So, knowing this, the Christian names of Danile and his friends were mentioned in this passage, and I wonder if it is because they are praying and seeking God of Heaven for wisdom. This would tell us that they still had identity in Christ and still knew who they truly belonged too.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage? – Daniel was being reasonable and knowledgeable knowing that the outlandish request that King Neb was asking was ridiculous and the King was not thinking with a clear mind. Daniel is at peace even though he is not in control and King Neb is angry because he has no control.
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why. – the real us is how we react to or respond to trials that come upon us.
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18) – He asks them to urgently plead to God on their behalf for mercy. They went to him because he is sovereign. They knew who was in ultimate control and went to Him because of that. They knew they were set in their dependence in God’s sovereignty.
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble? – I ask God in the morning to be with me as I go through my day, in my thoughts, speech and actions. I need him to be walking in front of me so my day can be set in Him.
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do? – They all cried out to Jesus for help. They were dependent on him and only him. I’ve done this in my times of financial struggle. Knowing I didn’t have enough money to cover all I needed in a month, I opened my checkbook to the heavens and cried out to him to see the balance in it and to help me. And of course he heard me and helped me. He provided what was needed.
Interesting insight into why they are referred to by different names at different times, Julie.
Proclamation:
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
—That Daniel makes it clear to the king it is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries and let it be known to him what the dream represents. And he made no claim to having any wisdom more than anyone.
16. Listen to Paige up to her reading of Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
—Daniel stood on the truth of God being in control. He trusted God who gave him the information to give it to the King.
Praise:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above. – Thanks for posting the quote Dee. I really liked this. I know I will have trials that will come against me but knowing that God is with me along with the trials, will help me to have peace in the situation. I have seen his faithfulness and goodness before and because he never changes, I am assured that he will provide what I need again. I can find peace among the trials, but only because of God.
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you? – Daniel knows he doesn’t have control in the situation or in any situation, but he is praising God because of the power he has and the sovereignty of God. His power and might is what Daniel needs. He can’t do anything on his own might, but only on God’s. I need to remember my power is only through God, and if I don’t seek Him daily, I think it will dwindle away. Kind of like ‘use it or lose it’. If I’m not constantly in The Word, or reaching out to God for wisdom and help, he will just wait patiently for me to cry out to him.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond? – He doesn’t know the reaction that the King will have, will it make him more angry or will he finally see his ridiculous ways and back down. But Daniel is dependent on God and is steadfast in Him that he is obedient to what he has learned and tells the King what God told him. His trust and dependence is in the Lord.
Proclamation:
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why. – Daniel makes sure the King knows exactly who interpreted the dream, it was not him but it was God in heaven. Daniel showed his humility and gave glory to God.
16. Listen to Paige up to her reading of Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why. – The trust that Daniel has in God to take care of him and the situation that God has placed him in, is where I need to be. What hope this brings to me that God does not have his eyes covered, he’s not trying to think of a way to resolve the conflict, he already knows what he will do. I can rest knowing that God knows ALL.
17. What conjunction in verse 28 is important for us to see and why? How does this relate to Betsie ten Boom’s comment? To your life in this darkening world today? – BUT – this helps us to find peace in our situation. We can know without a doubt that God knows exactly what is happening and where we are. He has set our life out already and is in control of it all. Yes, we can cry out to him, and talk with him, but he knows it all and is sovereign over everything. He will be with us to the end.
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why? I had not noticed before that Daniel asked his friends to pray so they wouldn’t be put to death along with the other wise men of Babylon Daniel praised God for everything and was humble before king giving God the credit . What a great example. It’s too easy for me to want to take all credit because I want people to have a higher opinion of me.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage? The king was willing to wait so his anger must have cooled or he was already impressed with Daniel Daniel wasn’t afraid to question and go to the king and ask for time. He then had his friends pray and gave credit to God.
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why. The king was angry because he couldn’t control everything Daniel had peace because he knows he can’t control anything. She also pointed out that Daniel had accepted his circumstances. Great example to accept the things we can’t change but to trust God through the circumstances
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18)
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble? I think I pray for wisdom in morning, but don’t ask during the day.
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do? Cry out to Jesus, help me Jesus.
Praise:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above. I think Paige has taught previously that we praise to move our focus from the problem to God. Yes, I think it helps move focus off self and brings peace.
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you? At that time Daniel needed God s wisdom to know the dream and God’s strength to go to the king. I need to remember it’s God who is in control and if He wants me to do something I need to do it and trust Him with the outcome.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond? Th king had been irrational planning to kill all the wisemen. What if the king didn’t like the interpretation? Daniel had to go to the king and would tell him that the king’s power came from God, someone the king didn’t worship. Daniel being dependent on God went to the king any way.
Proclamation:
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why. Daniel’s humiliy. He said he didn’t have greater wisdom than anyone else but God wanted the king to have the interpretation.
Rest in God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
What stood out to me is that the king put out a decree to kill all the wise men in Babylon and Daniel wasn’t even aware of it. Was it because he was a captive and therefore wasn’t part of the in crowd. He was going to be killed for not even knowing what for and thus his response, “why is the decree of the king so urgent?” One other thing that stood out, of which there were many, was Daniel’s confidence in God by telling Arioch to set up a time for him to meet with the king that he might show the interpretation to the king before God revealed to him what the dream was!
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
Nebuchadnezzar was frantic as he wasn’t in control and Daniel was calm because he knew exactly who was in control .
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
From Paige, “Full dependence is only expressed in how we pray because prayer is a confession of our need for God.” My need for God should be in all circumstances and all the time!
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18)
Mercy from the God of heaven.
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
Sadly and most of the time…just when I’m in trouble. I need to keep 1 Thessalonians 5:17 before me. “Pray without ceasing.” Be in constant communion with God. This lesson is so right on for me…much needed.
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do?
They cried out praying, “help me Jesus.”
All I find myself doing right now in my situation is crying out to Him for help and waiting.
Praise:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above.
Praising God takes our focus off of our trials and helps put our hope in a God who holds the future and understands.
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you?
”Both wisdom and might are the power and beauty of His Sovereignty…it’s not only that God controls everything but how He controls everything.” ~ Paige
I need to be more consistence in turning things over to God as He knows what is best for me.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond?
The king could have him killed because he doesn’t like the interpretation, but Daniel knows who he belongs to and is rejoicing in God regardless of the outcome.
From Sharon:
One other thing that stood out, of which there were many, was Daniel’s confidence in God by telling Arioch to set up a time for him to meet with the king that he might show the interpretation to the king before God revealed to him what the dream was!
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18)
For mercy from God.
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
ALL.THE.TIME.
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do?
They fried our for Jesus to help them. I have absolutely been there! Many times. I have begged Him for help. He came to my rescue.
From dear Laura:
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
ALL.THE.TIME.
Maybe because you are sort of in trouble all the time? 🙂
Hahahaha!!!
12. Comment on the above.
I was searching for this quote! I love it. It is such a different way to view the situation you are in at the time. Of course we will suffer. “It is the human way,” (as Gonzo says in A Muppet Christmas Carol 😉). When your perspective changes, you are held by Him, He Carrie’s you through it.
From dear Laura:
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
ALL.THE.TIME.
Maybe because you are sort of in trouble all the time? 🙂
And the Muppet Christmas carol. 🙂
Love this, Laura!!!”When your perspective changes, you are held by Him, He Carrie’s you through it.” I am trying to keep my perspective on His will daily.
Stupid auto-correct! Carrie’s should be carries….
Yes…auto correct is frustrating🥹
Proclamation:
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
Daniel very easily could of taken credit for himself, but gives the glory to the God in heaven and then goes on to say it was revealed to him, not because he had more wisdom than anyone else but that the interpretation be made known to the king and that the king may know the thoughts of his mind.
16. Listen to Paige up to her reading of Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
What stood out to me in the above comment really shows Daniel’s humility and as Paige said, “it’s rooted in truth.” Daniel very easily could have changed the interpretation but instead trusted God and His truth to tell Nebuchadnezzar what God was going to do with him.
17. What conjunction in verse 28 is important for us to see and why? How does this relate to Betsie ten Boom’s comment? To your life in this darkening world today?
”But.” It comes from God. Just as Daniel rested in God’s Sovereignty, so did Betsie.
Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
Daniel went to his house and asked his friends to pray with him, for compassion from God so that Daniel and his three friends would not be destroyed with the other wise men. They sought God’s help first. God revealed the mystery to Daniel in a night vision. I love verse 20: Daniel said, “Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, For wisdom and power belong to Him.” Daniel gives all credit and glory to God when he reveals the dream and the interpretation.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
King Nebuchadnezzar never thinks to look to God or even acknowledge Him when seeking an interpretation of the dream. He seeks man and no man can give him an interpretation. The king seeks power for himself, not the power of God.
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
The king rages because he can’t control everything. Daniel rests because he knows he can’t control anything. Daniel’s Trust and confidence in God. Prayer. Proclamation. Praise and acknowledgement of God.
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v. 18)
Daniel asks his friends to pray for compassion from God so that he and his friends would not be destroyed.
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day — or just when you are in trouble?
Through the day. Right now, I am having fear of the future and meltdowns of loneliness. Yet, I see God, even as I walk through it. Sometimes, it feels hard to even breathe. I Praise Him and remember all of the things He has done in my life in the past and I think, “how can I not trust Him. He is truly Trust-worthy!“
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do? They all said “Help me Jesus.” I said that the night I lost my husband and have been doing it often since. He is faithful. My need is for God constantly. I pray that I can press into His will for my life and that I can find peace and comfort there.
Praise: Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God. Bryan Chappel
12. Comment on the above. AMEN
Oh sweet Patti, as usual your words of wisdom encourage me… They all said “Help me Jesus.” I said that the night I lost my husband and have been doing it often since. He is faithful. My need is for God constantly. I pray that I can press into His will for my life and that I can find peace and comfort there.
I continually thank the Lord for you and keep you in my prayers.
Thank you, Sharon. I appreciate and feel your prayers.
That Bryan Chappell quote is so good for a new widow.
18. Read Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why. So the people will be a mixture and will not remain united, any more than iron mixes with clay. Just thinking of our divided nation.
19. Listen to Paige up to her final reading and share what stands out to you and why?the explanation of the Rock, that it was common but gradually grows until it fills whole earth and it will never be destroyed. With all the turmoil in this world, Jesus will reign.
20 She said not to over-analyze the statue but to get the main point. What is the main point that Nebuchadnezzar should have gotten and which we must get? That the king’s kingdom was temporary and what he should be doing was looking to God for eternal purposes of what he had.
21. How does the Rock differ from the kingdoms of gold, silver, bronze, and iron/clay? What does that mean to you? The Rock is common material. That the things the world continue valuable will all pass away and the important thing, Jesus, will remain. I need to keep my priorities in line with what really matters and not worrying about is there a better cream for wrinkles and etc
22. What did Paige mean when she said, “If we realize all we have is a ‘tear down’ we can use it for the eternal purposes of people.” Application? That I should realize my life here is temporary and how can I use my temporary things to glorify God. Give of my time and finances to help others.
23. What was her point about the identical church services before and after the 2016 election? No matter who wins the election , God is in control and Jesus still reigns. Kind of going back to Betsie’s comment. God is in this too.
From Judy — I could identify!
I need to keep my priorities in line with what really matters and not worrying about is there a better cream for wrinkles and etc
Amen to Dee. 🙂
13. Why it is significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for His wisdom and might? Application to you?
Because it reveals his utmost faith that God knows best and is the creator of all things. I need to keep focused on Him in all things.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond?
What if the dream he tells isn’t the same as the kings? Or, what if the king didn’t want to believe/didn’t like what Daniel’s God said about the future? He ends up worshipping Daniel!
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
Why does Daniel refer to God’s plan as secrets? That seems strange to me. Why isn’t it just the plan?
Also, why does he say God wants to reveal the king’s heart? I’m sure he doesn’t really want v to lose his kingdom to other rulers 🤷🏻♀️. Not following.
Would love to hear some responses to Laura’s good questions — I’ll pipe in too but would love to hear from you wise women first.
15. Read Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why. Why does Daniel refer to God’s plan as secrets? That seems strange to me. Why isn’t it just the plan? Also, why does he say God wants to reveal the king’s heart? I’m sure he doesn’t really want v to lose his kingdom to other rulers 🤷🏻♀️. Not following.
Laura, my translation uses the word “mysteries”, as in verse 28, “However, there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries, and He has made known to King Nebuchadnezzar what will take place in the latter days.”
Verse 29, “As for you, O king, while on your bed your thoughts turned to what would take place in the future, and He who reveals mysteries has made known to you what will take place.”
Daniel went on to tell the king that God revealed this mystery (the king’s dream) to Daniel for the purpose of making the interpretation known to the king, that he may “understand (or know) the thoughts of his mind (or heart).”
God revealed to King Nebuchadnezzar things that would take place after him….things about other kingdoms (of the earth/earthly kings) and up to the final and great mystery alluded to here of the eternal kingdom that God would establish. God, for whatever reason, wanted King Nebuchadnezzar to understand his mysterious dream and what it meant and gave him the privilege to know future events. (Why God chose to reveal to the king these things, I do not know, other than to show His power? His sovereign control over everything?)
I think about Samuel telling Eli the priest about what God was going to do to Eli’s family, his wicked sons, and that they would not continue to serve God as priests. Sometimes God chooses to reveal what He plans to do. Perhaps this was Nebuchadnezzar’s chance in his lifetime to acknowledge God for who He is, though he only asserts that Daniel’s God is “a God of gods”.
Susan — I love your comparison to Eli and revealing his sad end to him to help him repent!
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
I have a few questions here:
Why was it written that the king summoned the astrologers, magicians, sorcerers, and enchanters and then his decree was to kill all the wise men in Babylon?
And Daniel was not among the ones who were summoned? I am a little confused. Are astrologers, magicians, enchanters, and sorcerers wise men then?
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands.” How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
From “tearing those in attendance from limb to limb and having their houses in rubble” to killing ALL the wise men in Babylon.
1. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:13-22 and share what stands out to you and why.
Daniel went to the king after he knew what the decree was and asked him to give him time to interpret his dream. By this time, Neb must have cooled off and Daniel’s presence might have brought it about. The king agreeing to Daniel’s request showed that King Neb respected Daniel, The king might have also realized he was irrational but wouldn’t admit to it because of pride. He sure has a volatile personality with what he did in the past to his captives.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
I laughed when I heard the story of her 4-year-old who was asking Paige why she was not at the wedding. The 4-year-old was so upset she told her mom that she wouldn’t invite her when she gets married in the future! LOL Neb is like her 4-year-old who had a temper tantrum that led to senseless and irrational behavior.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
I often struggle with God’s timetable and am learning to wait on Him ( it is still a challenge for me to wait on Him). Even as I write I have an issue at school that is frustrating for me and I need to be still right now before Him and know that He is God and will take care of this matter.
Also– please reply to Bing’s good question:
Why was it written that the king summoned the astrologers, magicians, sorcerers, and enchanters and then his decree was to kill all the wise men in Babylon?And Daniel was not among the ones who were summoned? I am a little confused. Are astrologers, magicians, enchanters, and sorcerers wise men then?
Just a guess: Daniel and his friends were youth brought in from Israel to be educated and enter the king’s service. Daniel did understand all kinds of visions and dreams, but he wasn’t in the category of the magicians, conjurers, sorcerers and Chaldeans, who all were from Babylon. Their gifts were thought to be from the “gods”, but not from the true God that Daniel worshipped. Daniel, in faith, prayed to God for the interpretation, in order to save his life and that of his friends. (They were earlier tested by eating the vegetables and water for their diet). Even after Daniel told the king his dream and the meaning, the king did homage to Daniel, but he did not really acknowledge the true God of Israel.
Good clarification, Patti. Bing — your question made me think about the Magi, who were astrologers and I learned something new from The Gospel Coalition:
Magi is an ancient word referring to pagan astrologers. And since they dabble in the dark arts, we eventually got our English word magic from such magi.
“Behold,” Matthew says. “Look at this: Astrologers are coming! Pagan sorcerers are searching for Jesus! Wizards want to worship! Behold! This is shocking — and spectacular!”
Bing, in my translation in verse 13, it says, “So the decree (or law) went forth that the wise men should be slain; and they looked for Daniel and his friends to kill them.” I think this is saying that Daniel and his friends would have been lumped into that broad category of all the wise men of Babylon. I believe the first ones referred to, the magicians and sorcerers and conjurers were also included in that broad category, maybe as those possessing (supposedly) knowledge and arts beyond what “normal” people were capable of.
I agree with Susan, Bing. Thanks, Susan! I love it when this iron sharpening iron happens here.
You have great insights, Susan!
I too loved the story of the 4 year old and related it to Neb’s senseless behavior!
Thank you so much for the clarification! I am up to my eyeballs right now taking care of an issue at school but I am reading your comments and wise words here, everyone! I need to be a Daniel: confident in God’s sovereignty and goodness even when my circumstances are not making sense, and even when people are irrational.
Praying for you, Bing!
26. What stands out to you from the text and why? That the king falls before Daniel and gives him honor and an offering and not God Daniel told him that God had given him the power and dominion.
27. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture and share what stands out to and why. We can be awed, impressed and not transformed. I need to think about this when I hear something that awes me about God. Am I being transformed by the truth or stuck in a place He no longer wants me to be and not heeding his call to change. Also how she went on to glorify God and Christ
28. Does it seem ridiculous that Nebuchadnezzar could hear this from the Lord and only be impressed but not transformed? Can you see that this proclamation is as much about our future as it was about his? And, as such, can you give concrete examples of how this truth should not only impress but also change you? It s surprising to me that he would honor Daniel but not the Source of Daniel’s wisdom and interpretation. I’m thinking I need to be more in awe of the Creator and not take everything for granted.
29. What are some ways Paige exalted Christ to melt our hearts with His beauty in her closing? Though the Rock wasn’t made from human hands, He has nail scarred human hands. The king killed people, God died for His people. We have a God of ultimate sovereignty and ultimate sacrifice. Jesus became flesh and one of us and dwelt with us and dwells in us. We don’t have to reach to God He reaches to us and Jesus came running, leaving His throne to die for my sins. The Rock has come, His kingdom is growing, He will win and His opposition destroyed.
Great summary from Judy:
Though the Rock wasn’t made from human hands, He has nail scarred human hands. The king killed people, God died for His people. We have a God of ultimate sovereignty and ultimate sacrifice. Jesus became flesh and one of us and dwelt with us and dwells in us. We don’t have to reach to God He reaches to us and Jesus came running, leaving His throne to die for my sins. The Rock has come, His kingdom is growing, He will win and His opposition destroyed.
Icebreaker
When I tell my sister of some of my dreams, she says they are “stress dreams”. Often they go something like this one: I was with my daughter someplace and I went into the restroom. When I came out, everyone including her was gone. I tried to use my cellphone to call or text her but I couldn’t get any reception. I was anxiously trying and trying.
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
What stands out to you from the above text and why?
1. The poor Chaldeans! They were essentially given a death sentence right from the start. They were given an impossible task, to tell the king what he dreamed about, not just give the interpretation after he told them what he dreamed. However, the king was clever in that he did not want to be told something they would make up as an interpretation of his dream.
2. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s “unhinged demands”. How did they increase in intensity? (verse 12)
He expected the men to be mind readers and tell them what he dreamed about. It wasn’t humanly possible. He said that if they couldn’t do it they would be torn limb from limb. He became so furious when they said this was only possible for the gods, that he gave orders for all the wise men of Babylon to be destroyed.
Susan — I agree with your sister about those dreams, which are so like mine. I apply Ecclesiastes 5:3 to them: “A dream comes when there are many cares.”
Therefore they are not prophetic!
3. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
Paige reminded us that “there is no foreign land for God”. So, how do we sing the Lord’s song anywhere? I can waste time lamenting about all the problems of our world but – God is here, and I can sing!
Paige said that our world and our lives (globally and personally) are determined by God’s sovereignty. Our hearts are determined by our response to that. I can’t control what’s going on because I’m not God; I can control how I respond. I can at least make the world three feet all around me a good place.
4. Why did her 4-year-old throw a tantrum after looking at her wedding album? What was Paige’s point?
Because she didn’t see herself in any of the pictures in the wedding album, she demanded to know, “Where am I?!” In her mind, she was excluded, and it showed that her mom didn’t love her. She couldn’t comprehend that she didn’t exist yet. So faced with the impossible thing to grasp and not understanding, she became angry. Though Nebuchadnezzar’s request was impossible, it only made him angrier. He was not in control, he couldn’t have done what he asked, and no one else could either. Paige said, “He is the sovereign here with no sovereignty and it completely unhinges him.” In an attempt to prove he is in control, he orders the killing of an entire category of people in his kingdom.
5. Give examples of times you feel frustrated, even angry with God. Have you ever repented of trying to control God in your prayer life, or other aspects of your walk with Him? Can you point to tangible examples of this?
Not too long ago, I learned of something terrible that happened to someone as a child. I said something like this to God: In a situation where there is a bully, the one being bullied, and the bystander, who is the most important person? It’s the bystander, because they need to intervene. If they don’t, that’s the worst thing. Sometimes I question why God doesn’t intervene and stop people from hurting His children. I guess I will never understand why suffering is supposed to be good for us. When those four students were brutally murdered in Idaho, I thought since God knows everything, He knew what that man was going to do. Couldn’t God have thwarted his plans in some way?
There have been a few times in which I’ve had an angry outburst at God and blamed Him for something going on in my own life. After I get it out, I admit that it’s not really His fault to begin with.
I have those questions too, Susan, yet I, as I imagine you do too, turn it over to what I know about His love and just character. I do love the Tolkein quote: Everything sad will be made untrue.
Rest in God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:13-30
6. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
I like Daniel’s prayer in verses 20-23 and what He says about God: wisdom and power belong to Him, it is He who changes the times and epochs, He removes and establishes kings and gives wisdom, knowledge, and understanding. He reveals the profound and hidden things and knows what is in the darkness. Daniel remembers to thank God for giving him the dream and its interpretation.
7. How would you contrast Nebuchadnezzar with Daniel in this passage?
Nebuchadnezzar may have been shrewd and smart enough to be such a powerful king, but his anxiety and rage over this dream shows his weakness and lack of wisdom and that he really relies on himself, or on others like the “wise men” of his kingdom. That can only take you so far. Daniel, on the other hand, knows the God who knows all things and is the source of all wisdom and knowledge. He turns to God first for help, and because of his humility, God grants his request. Daniel, because of his relationship with God, can draw on all of the rich resources that belong to God.
16. Listen to Paige up to her reading of Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
Probably the Betsie Ten-Boom quote stands out to me the most. How God knows their fate and that was good enough for her. There is a comfort to that for me. He knows what is going to happen and He is taking care of things.
17. What conjunction in verse 28 is important for us to see and why? How does this relate to Betsie ten Boom’s comment? To your life in this darkening world today?
But, is the important word, because God rules the future. He wrote it! God is in charge. It makes me think of our living situation with the grands and our daughter. Another messy night tonight. Life is hard! I have felt comfort reading and listening to Paige, and especially the Betsie Ten Boom quote. Thank You Lord for watching over us. Thank You for helping us through these tough days.
Such a good quote to remember!
I so agree with you, Laura. That quote by Betsie Ten-Boom resonated with me, too! God wrote the script!
Praying for the hard things you are dealing with right now.
Realities of God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:31-45
18. Read Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
I like how Daniel addresses the kings troubled spirit and anxiousness regarding the dream with first confirming to the king that his dream consisted of a “great image, a mighty image of exceeding brightness that stood before him, and it’s appearance was frightening.” It tells the king that Daniel understands and even more importantly knows the dream.
19. Listen to Paige up to her final reading and share what stands out to you and why?
20 She said not to over-analyze the statue but to get the main point. What is the main point that Nebuchadnezzar should have gotten and which we must get?
It’s not about precision or the meaning of each part of the statue but about the statue as a whole…don’t get so caught up in the little things that you miss the big picture, which is the statue represents the whole human enterprise. It’s all human kingdoms lumped together and destroyed. “Nebuchadnezzar and all of us are just transients, there is always an “after this.” I like her quote from (File ?) which emphasizes this, “What seems to be an empire is only here an episode.”
21. How does the Rock differ from the kingdoms of gold, silver, bronze, and iron/clay? What does that mean to you?
1. It is unlike the statue of the man, there is a rock that you can see, not cut out by human hands.
2. It’s common – not valuable or attractive.
3. It’s gradual – becomes a mountain which is a picture of growth, expansion, dominance, universal – fills the whole earth.
4. It’s final – never destroyed, eternal reality, only time there is no “after this.”
22. What did Paige mean when she said, “If we realize all we have is a ‘tear down’ we can use it for the eternal purposes of people.” Application?
Where is our focus? If it’s on the here and now rather than on eternal things, then that is what we value most. 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; Colossians 3:1-5. Paige also quoted someone else (didn’t get the name), but this is the last part of it, “There will come a day when all our little triumphs and glories lie in the dust and we will stand before the Great Creator to give an account. When that day comes what will count will not be our standing in the statue but our standing on the Rock.”
Oh Lord, help me to set my mind on things above, not on things that are on the earth. May I not get caught up in materialistic things, but rather be used to further your kingdom and gospel to Y0ur glory.
23. What was her point about the identical church services before and after the 2016 election?
There is an “after this,” and Jesus still reigns!
I love your entire answer to 22. Sharon! YES! join you in this prayer:
Oh Lord, help me to set my mind on things above, not on things that are on the earth. May I not get caught up in materialistic things, but rather be used to further your kingdom and gospel to Your glory.
Great answers!
Hi everyone. I have not been able to follow along with your study here, though I love this little group and Dee who is amazingly faithful to lead you all these many years. Some of you know me a bit from year’s ago when I participated in this blog regularly. I have been listening to Paige’s study on Daniel along with you. This week on Daniel 2, Paige refers in passing to a man named Bryan Chapell. Here is the quote she uses: “Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.” That quote rang a note of hope in my heart and also reminded me that I am close to despair. I need help, God’s help most of all!
I am in the midst of counseling a friend in crisis right now and feeling overwhelmed (almost despairing) because she is despairing as her trials go on and on. She has drifted far from the Lord and I do not know if she will return! I so desperately want her to find hope ONLY in God! Also, one of our beloved children and his family continue to be very far from the Lord with no sign of ever returning. This weekend my holding on by the skin of my teeth came crashing down when yet another event brought back painful memories, and I feel like a failure! Yet, God brought me hope from the quote and I searched out Bryan Chapell, who is a pastor I discovered, and found a sermon on Daniel 2 called “When the Bottom Falls Out” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0g0TmJMRi-I). His message is much more pastoral than Paige’s but his words were a balm to my discouraged, aching heart. He reminded us the importance of prayer, praising God for what we have seen of his blessing from the past and present, and continuing to proclaim God even when we do not yet see his grace for the future. I just wanted to share it with you in case it helps you as well!
Prayers, Diane, for peace and wisdom. Also for clarity for the words and guidance to give your friend. Holy Spirit, please intercede for Diane’s family and friend to bring about hearts running to Jesus. In Jesus name.
Diane, I agree in prayer with Judy for you. Lord, hear our prayer. Give Diane wisdom and peace. Turn all of our hearts toward Jesus, I pray.
Oh! Diane! I am sorry to hear of you and your friends troubles. Despair. Ugh. Do I get that. But God. The Betsie Ten Boom quote really hit me this week. He already knows and is already working the future for us. Thank You Lord. I will pray for your situation(s). Love and hugs ♥️🙏
Diane — so glad you came on.
Father, how I pray You will lift Diane from despair — thank you for leading her to Bryan Chappel. I also pray you would lift her friend from despair.
In Jesus name
Chappel was a beloved president of Covenant Seminary where Paige went and studied for a while. He wrote Christ-Centered Preaching, a classic.
Love to you
Thanks for several of you for your kind words and prayers. And thanks, Dee, for the added information about Bryan Chapell. I really enjoyed his preaching. I may listen to other of his messages on Daniel alongside Paige’s as we go through Daniel.
Thank-you for sharing this spot on message from Bryan Chappell. What an encouragement his words are! This study of Daniel by Paige Brown is a very timely one for all Believers. I am praying for you to feel God’s Amazing Love surround you, your friend and your family. May you be a welcoming Light in the darkness of this world as you pray for them and share the Gospel. God bless you Sister. 🙏✝️🙏
Thanks, Lydia. It is wonderful to have a group of sisters in the Lord here through whom we can give and receive encouragement in our walk in the Lord.
Diane, it is so hard when someone you love and care about is despairing and when it pulls you down into the same pit of despair! Praying for these loved ones in your life that Jesus will pull them out of their pits, whether it’s a pit of trials and despair or one of turning away from God. I encourage you to let God carry these heavy burdens that you are not meant to carry. Take a walk outside, rest, read or listen to uplifting things to keep yourself emotionally and spiritually healthy.
Realities of God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:31-45
18. Read Daniel 2:31-45 and share what stands out to you and why.
—It stood out to me in verses 36-38 how Daniel addressed Nebuchanezzar as the king of kings, to whom the God of heaven has given the kingdom, the power, and the might, and the glory, and into whose hand he has given, wherever they dwell, the children of man, the beasts of the field, and the birds of the heavens, making you rule over them all.
I think because I know that to be true of Jesus it felt like he was describing the wrong king.
19. Listen to Paige up to her final reading and share what stands out to you and why?
—She gave the answer to my wondering about verses 36-38 in explaining that we don’t have people or leaders like Nebuchadnezzar in modern history. The reach of his reign truly was worldwide in power but verse 37 clarifies that it was only because God had given it to him. And she said “But the God who sets you up is the same God who brings you down.”
20. She said not to over-analyze the statue but to get the main point. What is the main point that Nebuchadnezzar should have gotten and which we must get?
—The kingdoms represented in the statue are all inextricably linked and the point is they are transient. The statement after this, after this, after this applies to each one and they all end up disintegrated. As a whole the statue representing them all is completely gone for ever because of the Rock.
21. How does the Rock differ from the kingdoms of gold, silver, bronze, and iron/clay? What does that mean to you?
—the Rock is:
Supernatural / not made with human hands
Common / does not appear valuable like the precious metals. It is unattractive and despised by the world seen as weak and insignificant at first.
Gradual / It is a picture of growth and it slowly becomes a mountain until it is dominant and overwhelming.
Universal / it fills the whole earth.
Ultimate
Final / an eternal reality. There is no “after this”.
—The reality of this being Jesus settles my future and brings hope and great security to my life and my future in this fallen broken world.
22. What did Paige mean when she said, “If we realize all we have is a ‘tear down’ we can use it for the eternal purposes of people.” Application?
—That was lengthy and I’m not succinct enough to condense it.
It was a good section. 😊
23. What was her point about the identical church services before and after the 2016 election?
—I loved this illustration and what a good reminder for us in this election year.
God is Sovereign before and He will still be sovereign after. I don’t have to worry and live in fear. Sure it can be troubling to observe at times but I have people around me who are deeply troubled and feeling great anxiety over the politics and politicians around us. I know I am bewildering and I think somewhat frustrating to them because I refuse to listen to any news media whatsoever and concern myself with it beyond doing what is minimal research and talking with people whom I trust to be godly and balanced. Then I pray about it before voting. God has surprised me and changes my mind occasionally. But ultimately I trust Him.
I too loved that church illustration!
Interesting note that I listened to my son’s message from last Sunday on Daniel 2 this morning and he made the same point to the congregation that we have an election coming up this year and that on the day before the election and on the day after the election we will still have the very same almighty, powerful sovereign God in control of everything. The election included. Such good perspective we learn from Daniel.
Daniel 2 with Paige
Sorry to be so far behind, but I was just now able to access the video. I’m sticking with the green questions this week.
1. Daniel 2:1-12 What stood out to me reading it this time, Daniel and his friends were not summoned with the other wise men in verse 2, and yet he and his friends were being held responsible (death sentence) for the failure of others.
2,3. Paige did a good job describing the king’s mindset. After hearing her, I looked at this passage with new eyes. He really was coming unglued, and his paranoia was evident. His anger escalated from questioning into accusation, and finally to threats of death. Craziness.
4. When the king was told he couldn’t get what he wanted, that no one could do the impossible, he throws a king-size tantrum. This is like Paige’s daughter, but she had the excuse of only being 4. He is a sovereign with no sovereignty over this problem, he can’t solve it and he can’t make anyone else do so. he becomes unhinged.
6, Daniel 2:13-30 What stands out to me now is vs, 16. Daniel’s request for more time is granted. Considered the sate of mind the king was in, a time extension seemed very unlikely. Nebuchadnezzar doesn’t listen to the other wise me and just gets angrier at their responses, quick sentence of death, but Daniel gets extra time with no accusations.
7. Contrast: Daniel is cool, calm, collected (trusting in God) Nebuchadnezzar is a hot mess (trusting in himself)
9,11. Prayer: Daniel and his friends prayed for help, that God would reveal the secret of the dream. Paige’s friend, and other ref., prayed “Help me, Jesus.”
I do not recall a time when I’ve prayed like that. My prayer is most likely “What do I do, Lord,” and He tells me, It’s either an action, continued prayer, or be still. When my daughter was killed in a car accident, 18 YO, I was so overwhelmed I could not pray. Times like that the Holy Spirit prayed for me and the Lord never left me for a moment, speaking to me softly. All I could cry out was, “Oh, God.” He heard all the rest without me speaking the words.
14. It’s dangerous for Daniel, because he does no know what Nebuchadnezzar’s reaction will be to the prophecy of the kingdom’s end.
15. Daniel 24-30 Daniel is concerned for all the wise men, not just himself and his friends. He could have seen this as an opportunity to get rid of “the competition” who were his enemies.
17. “But God..” When everything seems dark and the situation impossible, God acts, I have a printed list of “But God” verses I keep in my Bible. Having already mentioned my daughter, Mary’s death, I want to share one of those verses. I had already memorized the passage BEFORE the accident. The Lord knows what we need before we need it, amen? I won’t quote the passage, just the verse that burned in my heart, “My flesh and my heart faileth (and they did!), but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.” Psalm 73:26
He is sovereign over ALL, and I trust Him completely. I can only see a small glimpse of what is happening in the world, HE sees it ALL from beginning to end. I don’t have to be afraid, worried, or upset.
I like the “Oh God” and He knows what you mean! More than you do!
Icebreaker (Optional) Be brief with any answer!
George Swinnock (1627-1678), in Spurgeon’s Commentary, said: “Physicians have judged dreams to help understand their patients.” What are your dreams like — do you find them significant? If so, why?
I have had prophetic dreams a few times in my life and have been very disturbed by some. But after asking the Lord to help me understand them, He says to pray. So when a dream wakes me in the night I just talk to God and pray for the people and situations I dream about.
Resistance to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:1-12
1. What stands out to you from the above text and why?
vs. 11 …”no one can reveal this to the king except the gods and they do not live among men”
This stands out to me because I am so grateful that our God lives in us and He will never leave us. All we have to do is ask Him to reveal Himself and His plans to us and then wait upon Him and listen…He will respond. We can trust on Him, for He is Sovereign.
Good response to those dreams.
18. Read Daniel 2:31-45 when share what stands out to you and why.
It seems funny that Daniel seems to humor the king in versus 37-38. He says that God has made him the greatest king of all. But why would God make this pagan king the greatest king of all? Is Daniel just trying to win the king over by flattery?
19. Listen to Paige up to her final reading and share what stands out to you and why?
She matches Beth Moore in recognizing the different rulers! However, they are all destroyed together. I enjoyed Beth’s historical account of Daniel. It was very interesting!
20 She said not to over-analyze the statue but to get the main point. What is the main point that Nebuchadnezzar should have gotten and which we must get?
The statue represents all of creation in its entirety. You must take it as a whole. They are disintegrated. They are transient. They are not eternal.
21. How does the Rock differ from the kingdoms of gold, silver, bronze, and iron/clay? What does that mean to you?
It is not like the metals. It is not shiny, it is soft. It grows gradually. It is not cut out by human hands. It is common. It breaks them into pieces.It is something completely different. It is final.
22. What did Paige mean when she said, “If we realize all we have is a ‘tear down’ we can use it for the eternal purposes of people.” Application?
We live our lives trying to keep ourselves fit and beautiful. We are living in a tear down. There is an “after this.” Do I have my eyes on the after-life? The stone needs to grow and fill the entire earth. The Great Commission!!
https://youtu.be/APATH3ea-D0?si=8EoB_fwHVFtZyHQ8
23. What was her point about the identical church services before and after the 2016 election?
Jesus still reigns. It doesn’t matter what happens in this life. Jesus still reigns.
Dee, I love how you have differentiated your instruction here to meet everyone needs! You are such a good teacher 🥰. I am doing most of the questions, but if I needed to “go green” it’s there for me! Thank you for all you do!
Amen to Laura!
Thanks so much, Laura.
I feel the same way. It lifts the pressure of feeling that I am days behind (even though I don’t always answer online).
8. Listen up to when Paige reads Daniel 2:24-30 and share what stands out to you and why.
I love Paige’s story about her husband running away in terror from the snake in the park. Paige said that “it is in the moment” of crisis that shows who we really are. Are we angry? Do we call someone? Rage versus Rest was demonstrated in the reactions of Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel to not being in control.
Also, that prayer, or how/when we pray, reveals what we believe is our real need. We say, “I need (blank).” So, we pray about it, and we either get it or not, and if not, we stop praying. We have no further need for God. This reminds me of when Michael Reeves talked about using God as a means to an end, instead of wanting God for Himself. In reality, our need is for God.
9. Pray – What does Daniel ask his friends to pray for? (v.18)
“Saying our prayers” is different from praying to God. Paige said Daniel didn’t ask God to “be” sovereign – He went to the God because He IS Sovereign. Daniel and his friends prayed for God’s mercy and compassion so that they wouldn’t be killed along with the rest of the wise men of Babylon.
10. Are you crying out to God for wisdom throughout the day – or just when you are in trouble?
I believe that I pray to God more than just when I am in trouble. I’m doing a study now with my group at church, and each day we set an intention. I’ve taken to writing them on index cards because I easily forget! So today, when I realized that my mind was being cluttered with negative, critical, judgmental thoughts, and I was having a conversation with myself about a situation, I remembered to stop and ask God to help me let go of that clutter to make more space for Him to fill.
11. What did Bartimaeus, the Syrophoenician woman, the bleeding woman, and Paige’s friend who was suffering in death do? When have you been there and what did you do?
They each cried to Jesus – “Help me, Jesus!” Each showed their utter dependence upon Him. Each one had no one else to turn to. Prayer is in itself a confession of our need for God. I remember being in the emergency room many years ago and feeling too scared and unable to pray, but I asked my husband to call my Christian friend and ask her to pray for me. I knew I needed God’s help and trusted that He would hear my friend.
Praise: Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
12. Comment on the above.
In talking about Daniel’s prayer of praise in verses 20-23, Paige said that this wasn’t just “nice”, but it was “necessary”. It’s not even about giving thanks, and she used the example of the ten lepers healed by Jesus and only one returned (she said look at the language) to give “praise” to God. Paige said giving God praise isn’t for Him, it’s for US. It is necessary for us as it focuses our minds and hearts on the greatness of God and refocuses our perception of our lives and our problems. I think of how many of the psalms begin with lament and despair, and then there is a turn, a remembering of God, and praising Him, and a renewed resolve to trust Him.
Praise is not just nice but necessary! So good.
Response to God’s Sovereignty/ Read Daniel 2:46-49
26. What stands out to you from the text and why?
Nebuchadnezzar recognized Daniel’s God, “Truly, your God is God of gods and Lord of kings…” but that’s as far as it went. It was a head knowledge but not heart changing.
Also, Daniel did not forget his three companions.
27. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture and share what stands out to and why.
28. Does it seem ridiculous that Nebuchadnezzar could hear this from the Lord and only be impressed but not transformed? Can you see that this proclamation is as much about our future as it was about his? And, as such, can you give concrete examples of how this truth should not only impress but also change you?
It does seem ridiculous but not surprising as he was so wrapped up in himself and as Paige said, “he has no problem adding another god – Daniel’s God.”
Yes, this is a theology about all history, including secular.
God’s Sovereignty is true and He sent His Son to die for His people. The Word (Jesus) became flesh – we don’t serve a God that’s reachable, we serve a God that reaches. God came to redeem real people – the Rock has come and it’s growing.
29. What are some ways Paige exalted Christ to melt our hearts with His beauty in her closing?
God is personal – My Rock, My salvation. I can sing the Lord’s song in a foreign land. This world is not my home, I’m just passing through. https://youtu.be/3RjdCFc98lA.
Such a good song. Keller says we remember best what we sing!
13. Why is it significant that of all God’s perfect attributes, in verses 20-22, Daniel praises God for his wisdom and might? Application to you?
Paige said God’s wisdom and might are both the power and the beauty of His Sovereignty. It is praising God not for being in control only, but in HOW He controls everything. He does it PERFECTLY. Daniel praises God for who He is and also for God giving wisdom to Daniel.
Application for me: Paige pointed out that Daniel really didn’t know what his fate would be. Being able to tell the king his dream and its interpretation wouldn’t necessarily guarantee anything positive for Daniel. He already knew he was going to remain in captivity. He might still lose his life. But he was set in his dependence upon God and still praised God for His wisdom and power. God is God, His beauty is His beauty, who He is doesn’t change, it doesn’t rise or fall depending on what happens to me.
14. Why is interpreting the dream dangerous for Daniel? How does he respond?
The king might have been angered because the interpretation wasn’t very favorable for him, and taken out his anger on Daniel. Daniel responds with faith and trust in God’s sovereignty.
26. What stands out to you from the text and why?
Daniel went from prisoner to ruler of Babylon! Wow! God sure does have the plan. Daniel obeyed God and God rewarded him.
27. Listen to the end of Paige’s lecture and share what stands out to and why.
The rock that represents Jesus is our foundation. Although bad things happen in our earthly lives, ultimately, God has the plan and is working things out for us. We need to be careful to not go the progressive Christianity route, where all things are always good and nothing bad happens. That is not true. We live in a secular world where evil is present. I go back to the quote from both Betsie Ten Boom and Brian Chappel:
Trials do not disappear when we praise God, but our hearts are healed from despair when we praise God.
life will remain hard until I pass and walk into my Saviors arms, BUT, He is present and working in my life.
Our submission to God. We think we know what is best. We do not. God knows. We need to submit to Him.
I thought those were both amazing quotes too.
Paige’s study on this chapter was nothing like the one that I did years ago. In that one, the statue was broken down into kingdoms that had already past and where we are right now in history, not about wisdom, Daniel or the king. Both focused on the fact that God is in control of what is going on around us, though.
I never realized that Daniel knew that his captivity was permanent and that he wasn’t going to have a Joseph ending to his life. I thought that he was making the best of it while waiting for God to free his people and let them return to their land.
I always think of how foolish King Nebuchadnezzar was to not be transformed by the prophecy that he was given (as it will be totally revealed in later chapters).
This week’s study has helped free me from the idea that I might be even a little bit in control.
Love this from Dawn:
This week’s study has helped free me from the idea that I might be even a little bit in control.
Though I have not been here often, I have listened to Paige twice and read through as many comments as I can this past week. I have learned I still want to be in control. Even though it might just be a little less like our Dawn here said. I said I fully trust in the sovereignty of God but I wanted to be a little “sovereign” myself. I have seen the uselessness of my thoughts and actions.
The issue at school worked itself out by His grace and sovereignty and looking back, as much as I want to make excuses for myself, I wasn’t the Daniel I wished I was. This was a very convicting lesson for me to walk the talk. Forgive me, Lord, for taking the reigns from your hand. Help me fully trust you and look to you as my confidence and wisdom. How you’ve worked things out is beautiful as I reflect on your ways this past week.