TODAY IN THE WORD
Modern scientists and psychologists have found great value in the study of dreams. Some counselors have been able to help their patients deal with the most troubling problems by talking through their dreams. One such process, called “lucid dreaming,” requires a patient to realize he or she is dreaming without waking up. By becoming aware that a dream is taking place, a patient can uncover the source of their subconscious worries.

Daniel was a dream expert if ever there was one. Chronologically, this dream took place in between chapters 4 and 5. But the revelations of his dream were not the fruit of his subconscious; they were the prophecies of God, and they were more than even Daniel could neatly interpret. That's important for us to remember as we strive to understand these next few chapters of Daniel. If the dream was troubling to Daniel, we can't hope to know it without much prayer and guidance from the Lord.

We can, however, simplify two major themes that emerge from Daniel's dream about the powers that rule over the earth. The first is that the kingdoms of man are temporary and will ultimately be replaced by the divinely designed kingdom of Christ, a kingdom that will never be destroyed (v. 27). If we learn nothing else from this chapter, the unshakable sovereignty of God is a wonderful lesson and a good place to start. The creatures used to symbolize kingdoms are no match for the glorious Ancient of Days.

The other theme is that the establishment of Christ's kingdom is not a gentle transition. Daniel was troubled and disturbed by the images he saw (v. 15). Even concluding the matter with God's everlasting kingdom and eternal obedience to Him, Daniel still felt very deeply troubled (v. 28). His heart must have been broken by seeing several ages worth of evil and wicked rebellion against God. Daniel probably witnessed unspeakable acts of evil and unthinkable suffering in the forecast that is recorded in verses 24 through 26 alone. It was too much for Daniel's mind to process, and it was just the beginning of what God had to show him.

---

TODAY ALONG THE WAY
A solid understanding of these prophecies requires much more than a few minutes of study. To get an adequate grasp of the content of Daniel 7-12, consider reading a few different commentaries on the subject, and talk to your pastor about your interest. Throughout your study, remember to maintain a heart of humility, because the details can be difficult to grasp and many a proud heart has been carried away by the fascinating endeavor of trying to look into the future.

< Previous Day

Next Day >