Day 2: Nebuchadnezzar’s Dream

Have you ever had somebody place a ridiculously unrealistic expectation on you? Perhaps a coach or music instructor demanded absolute perfection, even though perfection itself is completely unattainable. Or perhaps a teacher or professor tested you on material in which they didn’t lecture, nor was it in your required reading. Unrealistic expectations can prove harmful for everybody involved.

As a ruler of a huge empire, Nebuchadnezzar placed an expectation on others that was completely and totally ridiculous. He had a dream and desired an interpretation of the dream, which was very common in his culture. But he took it a step further. He wanted the scholars of his day to not just provide an interpretation of his dream; instead, he wanted them to know his dream and its interpretation. When they couldn’t provide details of what he dreamed, he ordered them all to be killed.

Fortunately, a godly man named Daniel stepped forward and noted that even though he couldn’t interpret the dream, his God could reveal all mysteries.

As you read today, consider this: What aspects of Nebuchadnezzar’s story resonate with your own life experience?

READING:

     DANIEL 2

What aspects of Nebuchadnezzar’s story resonate with your own life experience? (Consider the unrealistic expectations he placed on others, those he supervised, those he interacted with, etc.)

What kinds of ambitions or hopes could Nebuchadnezzar have had through his life experiences? In what ways does this help you to identify with the story of Nebuchadnezzar?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Numbers 34 & 35

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today? HEAR Bible Study Method

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I have placed unrealistic expectations on others. Not only that, but I have demeaned or criticized others unfairly for not living up to those expectations. Today I ask for wisdom and clarity as to how I may be able to make amends for these mistakes. Reveal to me steps that may be taken to rebuild trust, reconcile broken relationships, and regain influence in the lives of those I have hurt by my selfish actions. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.   

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