Saturday, October 29
The handwriting is on the wall
Scripture: Daniel 5-6, Psalm 125, Mark 13
Daniel 5:22–24 But you his successor, Belshazzar, have not humbled your heart, even though you knew all this. 23 Instead, you have exalted yourself against the Lord of the heavens. The vessels from his house were brought to you, and as you and your nobles, wives, and concubines drank wine from them, you praised the gods made of silver and gold, bronze, iron, wood, and stone, which do not see or hear or understand. But you have not glorified the God who holds your life-breath in his hand and who controls the whole course of your life. 24 Therefore, he sent the hand, and this writing was inscribed.
Observation
Daniel was a stud! When Belshazzar succeeded Nebuchadnezzar as king, Daniel lost his position and influence. Belshazzar arrogantly misused the sacred dishes from the Jewish Temple, and God sent a message—the handwriting on the wall. When none of the king’s magicians could interpret it, the queen reminded the king about Daniel, who was then called in.
Daniel reminded the king of Nebuchadnezzar’s pride and fall, then went for the jugular. “You knew all this, but didn’t humble yourself. Now…the handwriting is on the wall. Your days are numbered, you’ve been weighed and found wanting, and your kingdom will be divided and given to others. See ya!”
Belshazzar knew the past but failed to learn from it. His pride led to his downfall.
Application
“Those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it.”
We all know that, and yet often fail to learn—especially when it comes to pride.
Laina and I still watch Survivor. This week, a contestant was voted off shortly after she confided to the camera that she was made for this game and was in control. As soon as she said that, we looked at each other and said, “Goodbye.” The handwriting was on the wall! Any Survivor fan knows that is the kiss of death. As soon as you think you’re in control, you’re not…and you’re gone. The amazing thing is that the players are all fans and they know that…but forget. Just like Belshazzar. And me.
Proverbs 16:18 Pride comes before destruction, and an arrogant spirit before a fall.
Keep a humble spirit and always be learning. Never be a know it all. Stay humble and curious. And at the first sign of pride…repent!
Prayer: Lord, I acknowledge today that I’m not in control—You are—and that I don’t know it all—You do. You are Lord and I am not. Help me to be humble and curious and depend on You!