Thursday, November 30

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

"'In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man, coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed." (Daniel 7:13,14)


In today's reading from Daniel, we receive his testimony of what God revealed about the culmination of history. These words caused Daniel to become unsettled, as he notes in vv. 15 and 29.

Reflecting on the inherent uncertainty of the future tends to produce anxiety within our day-to-day lives. As we recognize our lack of control over even small things, we become nervous and grasp for some authority. Yet, deep within us, we know the reality that this authority is extremely limited. This anxiety flows naturally when we take a "human-centered" perspective on uncertainty.

Likewise, if we look at Biblical prophecy from a "human-centered" perspective, we may find ourselves wondering, "What is the implication of this passage for me? How will I react to these developments?" Again, uncertainty overwhelms and produces anxiety, creating a vicious cycle.

Yet, we may find comfort and strength in both today's uncertainty and that of the future by remembering God's sovereignty over today, tomorrow, and every day. He is consistently working out His good for each Christ-follower, forming us more completely into the image of Christ. Importantly, in right in the center of Daniel's prophecy, we find the "Son of Man." Please note that "He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him."

As Hebrews 13:8 teaches us, "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." His sovereignty and authority have existed from eternity past and will exist till eternity future. We may stand confidently for the future, both near and distant, knowing that the Lord Jesus Christ stands above worldly circumstances and powers. These circumstances and powers will fade away in time, but God's Word and God Himself will reign forever.

Practically, I find it encouraging to speak truth into our anxiety by affirming out loud: "God, You are worthy of my trust because You are sovereign all things. I place this situation into Your hand, knowing that You are in control and that You desire Your best. Give me the strength and courage to persevere in this trial and to remember Your rightful authority over my life and my heart. In Jesus's Name, amen."


May We live victoriously in the power of the risen and reigning Christ!



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