Day 4: Nebuchadnezzar’s Folly
As was mentioned on Day 1, Nebuchadnezzar was a pretty smart king. Even though the Babylonian military had overthrown many different nations and people, as the king, Nebuchadnezzar employed the most learned and educated individuals from these other nations. The diversity of many different nations coming together turned out to be a great strength for his empire.
Additionally, Nebuchadnezzar learned that the people were able to adapt to the changing political climate if they were permitted to continue practicing their own religion. For the most part, this freedom of religion provided a great deal of stability for the Babylonian Empire.
But something occurred that Nebuchadnezzar didn’t expect – the God of the people of Israel required exclusive worship. In one sense, Nebuchadnezzar himself had been able to rule over all of the gods people worshiped. But this new God was different. Israel’s God declared that He was responsible for Nebuchadnezzar’s success, and that He and He alone was worthy of being worshiped. Nebuchadnezzar struggled to accept God’s sovereignty, and did so to his own folly. As you read today, consider this: How did Nebuchadnezzar respond to the challenges he experienced?
READING:
Think back through all of the readings from this week: How did Nebuchadnezzar respond to the challenges he experienced?
Would you have responded any differently a year ago? 5 years ago? 10 years ago?
Would you respond any differently today?
F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)
Read: Deuteronomy 3 & 4
Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today? HEAR Bible Study Method
PRAYER:
Heavenly Father, like Nebuchadnezzar, there have been times in my life when I have wanted to take credit for everything I’ve accomplished in life. But today I am reminded that You and You alone are responsible for everything I am, everything I have, and everything that is good and pure in this life. Today, I worship You for the many blessings You have provided. Specifically, I thank You for (_______), (________), and (________). But mostly, I thank You for the sacrifice Jesus made on my behalf. I worship You today! Amen.
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