Scripture Reading: Daniel 2:25-49, Psalm 10:16, 1 Corinthians 15:24-27
I’ve had some weird dreams in my life: being kidnapped by the Wicked Witch of the West, having a coworker as a parent, finding myself at school with no pants. Never, though, have I been so troubled as to seek interpretation for these as seminal messages for my future, let alone threatening the lives of any who failed to interpret them well. When we read Daniel chapter two, we see that this is the very threat Daniel found himself on the receiving end of.
Daniel acted boldly. Just as we saw the presence and power of God with Daniel in giving him the interpretation, we see it in his response to the king. He entered Nebuchadnezzar’s court and declared that no person could interpret the dream but informed him that “there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries,” one who would make known its meaning (Daniel 2:28). He claimed no wisdom or power of his own but, instead, boldly pointed to the true God as the source of this revelation.
In doing so, Daniel acted in faith and exemplified what Jesus later declared in Luke 12: “Anyone who acknowledges me before others, the Son of Man will also acknowledge him….the Holy Spirit will teach you at that very hour what must be said” (Luke 12:8,12). Daniel not only acknowledged God before men, but he did so in the highest court in the land and at risk of his own life, believing God would give him the words to say. He trusted and he obeyed, believing in “the God of the heavens” who would “set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 2:44).
The dream itself tells of a succession of kingdoms with varying levels of glory and strength which crumbled by “a stone [that] broke off without a hand touching it” and “became a great mountain and filled the whole earth.” Daniel’s interpretation of this dream is striking as well (Daniel 2:34,35). He wasn’t just predicting future power clashes and regime changes; he was describing how God gave power to kings and then goes on to say “in the days of those kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed” (v.44).
So in the presence of the most powerful man in the world, as a prisoner in the midst of humiliating exile, Daniel proclaimed the everlasting supremacy of Christ’s kingdom. We often think of this only in terms of individual souls being saved, but Daniel was foretelling what Paul wrote: “He must reign until he puts all his enemies under his feet” (1Corinthians 15:25). Jesus came to save and change hearts, but He is a conquering King as well, defeating all enemies, all evil, all death (v.26). And unlike every man-built kingdom, His reign will last for eternity. For Daniel, these must have been words that simultaneously made him fear for his life yet gave him hope for the future. We know the story, though. We know how Christ struck the death blow to death, once and for all time. So for us, these are words that are sure and sealed and fill us with hope for His return.
Written by Barnabas Piper
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89 thoughts on "Daniel Interprets the Dream"
Sometimes we don’t know were to start at, but we can always know that we can start with the truth of who God is and what He as already done. Daniel did this and was given a reward for interping the kings dream, with his smile Daniel had brought along a whole community of belivers and he did not say that yup gifts are good and great in all. Daniel shows us true faith in God even in the most hard circumstances He will stay sovereign and righteous to all His people, God also reminds us that without Jesus we would not have God the Father, becasue Jesus is the only way to the Father. God was also conveying His power over us and that there is no one else like Him no one can be like Him.
One thing that really caught my attention this time through is that King Nebuchadnezzar fell facedown and WORSHIPPED Daniel, not his God! He did indeed acknowledge the greatness of Daniel’s God, but it was Daniel who he worshipped. Should Daniel have asked him to stop? Could he even do so? And was this the reason that God had to further humble Nebuchadnezzar later on in the account, when he goes crazy and lives with the wild animals of the field for a time? No idea if anyone has commented on this before; I think I’m going to go look and see if I can find anything on the topic. But if anyone has any thoughts on the matter, I’d love to hear them.
Good thoughts.
Margaret, the same thought went through my mind. Surprise in the fact that Daniel didn’t rebuke the king’s action. He had shown no fear up to that point so…
Thanks for mentioning that. ❤
When I dream, it’s just a jumble if things that make no sense and I often can’t remember half of it. But dreams and their interpretations were very important in the Bible.
God still speaks through dreams. My daughter had a dream that was so vivid and real, that she called her doctor and had an MRI the very next day. She dreamed she had breast cancer several months before she was due for her next mammogram. That dream saved her life. She spent the next year in treatment with several surgeries, chemotherapy and radiation. And now, she’s cancer free. Every single day, I thank God for giving her that dream and for saving her life. She also had the opportunity to share with her treatment team, caregivers and mant others how God had warned her of this cancer in time to get it treated.
God is so good. And, He still speaks through dreams.
Loving this study.
Such a testimony your daughter has! ❤️❤️
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She has always given God the praises for sending her that dream.
Wow, Love that Teresa!! Praise God!
And I am like you, my dreams seem random and strange, and then I instantly forget them.
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I REMEMBER that, Teresa!!! ❤
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I may have shared this before. I was saved when I was a senior in high school. Back in freshman year I had world history and my teacher Mrs. Dahlquist who I believe was a believer would write all the notes on the board. I remember us learning about King Nebuchadnezzar and perhaps because I attended church when I was younger (elementary age) I realized that the Bible was true. You never know when, what or where a seed can be planted.
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“He claimed no wisdom or power of his own but, instead, boldly pointed to the true God as the source of this revelation.” Daniel was very brave in this situation. I admire his bravery. Reminds me of the childhood song, “Dare to be a Daniel”
“Standing by a purpose true,
heeding God’s command,
honor them, the faithful few!
All hail to Daniel’s band!
Refrain:
Dare to be a Daniel!
Dare to stand alone!
Dare to have a purpose firm!
Dare to make it known!”
I had a teacher friend who was blind. I called her at Christmas time and on her birthday. This last Christmas I called her and had an overwhelming urge to share inspirational songs with her to put on her playlist. I did not do it. She passed in February. I so regret not following that still small voice. I was not a Daniel. I was never sure of her relationship with Jesus. We never know when we have that last opportunity.
If you have time, Check out Allen Parr on YouTube and his take on Daniel 2 and its connection to Daniel 7.
Powerful new-to-me song. Thank you :)
“Acknowledge the Lord God in all your ways..” is what I think of. Daniel could have just said it in a different way, even omitting God altogether. But he gave his God, the God all the credit. Always be ready to give an account…the Holy Spirit gives us the words…and give God the credit, none of our own accord! Let me remember this Lord. Oh I feel so good when I say the right things leading my groups, or at Jail Ministry…but have to not think it was of my own accord, every class I say YOU Lord God…give me words, give us what you have for us!
I just prayed a bold, asking for miracle healing for my dad this morning, if only for a day, that He would touch my dad to feel better today. He was so bad last night just walking back and forth every 10 minutes. Praying the new pills will work today. Please pray with me.
2 songs I heard this morning during the readings-
Don’t Fight Alone- Jon Reddick
First Thing First- Consumed By Fire
I just shared No Fear by John Reddick! First Things First is another favorite of mine! ❤
Another great song for this whole study is “Fires” by Jordan St. Cyr
I remember how You told me
That life may not be easy
And everything that I need
You’ve already given me
I remember how You told me
I can trust You completely
So why am I doubting
When You proved that You’d fight for me?
You’ve walked me through fires
Pulled me from flames
If You’re in this with me
I won’t be afraid
When the smoke billows higher, oh and higher
And it feels like I can barely breathe
I’ll walk through these fires
‘Cause You’re walking with me
I’m changed by Your mercy
Covered by Your peace
I’m living out the victory
Doesn’t mean I won’t feel the heat
You’ve walked me through fires
Pulled me from flames
If You’re in this with me
I won’t be afraid
When the smoke billows higher, oh and higher
And it feels like I can barely breathe
I’ll walk through these fires
‘Cause You’re walking with me
I can face anything (anything)
‘Cause You’re here with me (here with me)
I can do all things (do all things)
‘Cause You strengthen me
I remember how You showed me
The price of my redemption
Lord, how could I question
When You proved that You’d die for me?
You’ve walked me through fires
Pulled me from flames (pulled me from flames)
If You’re in this with me (thank you, Lord)
I won’t be afraid (I won’t be afraid)
When the smoke billows higher (higher)
Oh and higher (higher)
And it feels like I can barely breathe
I’ll walk through these fires (I’ll walk through)
‘Cause You’re walking with me
I’ll walk through these fires (I’ll walk through)
‘Cause You’re walking with me
Yes, I love this one, too, and haven’t heard it in a long time.
Praying your dad has a better, more restful night and a better day tomorrow! ❤
Praying for your dad, RJ. Sorry he is going through this pain. Is there a diagnosis or hope for relief? Sorry if I missed an earlier comment.
Praying for your dad, especially relief from pain ❤️
Praying for your dad’s recovery and strength. So sorry to hear.
praying, Rhonda
FAITH
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FEAR
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Psalm 143:10 NLT
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God.
May your gracious Spirit lead me forward
on a firm footing.
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Isaiah 41:13 NLT
For I hold you by your right hand—
I, the Lord your God.
And I say to you,
‘Don’t be afraid. I am here to help you.
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Psalm 131:3 NLT
O Israel, put your hope in the Lord—
now and always.
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Psalm 37:5-6 NLT
Commit everything you do to the Lord.
Trust him, and he will help you.
6 He will make your innocence radiate like the dawn,
and the justice of your cause will shine like the noonday sun.
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SONG SHARE: (I didn’t expect to be sharing another John Reddick song back to back, but here’s another favorite sing-along song!
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No Fear- Jon Reddick (Official Music Video)
Partial lyrics:
I got enemies at every side
It ain’t looking good, I ain’t gonna lie
Arrows flying, devil’s trying
To make me think I’m going down this time
You might think that I’d be afraid
Running scared with a shaken faith
But the God I know says it ain’t over
The God I know is gonna make a way
Yea, though I walk through the valley
I will have
No fear, no fear
The mighty power of Jesus
Is fighting for me here
No fear, no fear
The light of the world
Makes the darkness disappear
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
One of my favorites!!!!!!!
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Wonderful verses to read today. Thanks for sharing them ❤️
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Great verses! ❤️
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Once, and for all time. ….words that are sure and “sealed” and fill us with hope for His return. Our God, Our Jesus has it all under control. We need not to fear, though our human nature is to fear our future, (my future), I know that know I can and will TRUST my Jesus, who already has me at the palm of His hands and has my future (your future) under control. Just as Daniel as young as he was (read below he was 17 years-old), and though he did fear his own life, Daniel knew he could trust God giving us that example. Even when it’s scary.
I was working on my post when yours posted. Similar thoughts! ❤
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Be a Daniel! Acknowledge where God has put you, lean into him to make it through and to honor him in all things.
Yes, Be A Daniel!! Wow, obedience when looks hopeless, strange, and than scary in front of the king!
Beautiful Blessings … for sharing those words, Stephanie.
Is anyone going to see the Daniel movie that releases this weekend?
It would be awesome if every church would get a showing!
Oh yes, I would have loved that. My church went to see Jesus Revolution (and we dressed in the 70’s).
I forgot that is was coming out. I may do just that.
In this chaotic world in which we live, Our God is reminding us/me “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” Psalm 103:19.
We know the end of the story and can face the future with confidence because He reigns!
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“Daniel not only acknowledged God before men, but he did so in the highest court in the land and at risk of his own life, believing God would give him the words to say. He trusted and he obeyed, believing in “the God of the heavens” who would “set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed” (Daniel 2:44).”
What a great level of trust, confidence, boldnesd and courage Daniel displays. I wonder if he was shaking in his sandals or so filled with peace abd articulate that he never faltered in the words that came out of his mouth. All along we have read of Daniel’s faithful obedience and how God carries him through such difficult circumstances and the commitment and example Daniel lives out is truly remarkable.
As we continue to read through the account of Daniel’s life what an opportunity to examine ourselves and ask the Lord to strengthen us with courage, boldness and hearts of obedience that will lead us well and truly bring honor and glory to the mighty name of Jesus and lift Him high.
Another beautifully said post, Wendy; thank you! ❤❤❤
Amen❤️
Daniel required such courage to go before the king and interpret his dream. I wonder if he was plagued with fear or filled with confidence in the Holy Spirit. Praying we continue to be bold in faith like Daniel!
So Daniel tells King Nebuchadnezzar that it is impossible for anyone to tell him his dream or interpret it. “But there is a God” who can do the impossible. Daniel tells the king it is only because of this God that he can interpret his dream and it is only because of this God that King never recognize her is King and has the power and sovereignty that he has. Then Daniel basically tells the King that his kingdom will be crushed and remembered no more. This doesn’t seem to anger, King Nebuchadnezzar instead, he cries out “ your God is indeed God of gods” all the glory is given to our God. And Daniel is well blessed for his obedience. What a great story of faith and obedience.
Yes it is kind of surprising that king N didn’t execute Daniel for delivering the news that king N has power because it was given to him by Daniel’s God and that king N’s kingdom will be crushed.
Daniel was an exile, prisoner -taken from his home, his family, his land. Stripped of everything that made him who he was.
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Here was an opportunity for him to rise and shine above the rest, to really reserve a place for himself – yet, he takes no glory for his own, he takes none of the credit. He gives all the glory to God, “but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries.”
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Because of his faith he was bold to speak the truth, empowered by the Holy One. And through Daniel, God proclaimed His kingdom, the everlasting kingdom which will never be destroyed!
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In choosing to obey God, by not succumbing to the kings table, and because he spoke the truth God had revealed to him concerning the king – God in His time, blessed Daniel and his 3 friends by giving them places of honor and lavishing many gifts on Daniel.
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→”To obey is better than sacrifice…” 1 Samuel 15:22
→”If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth…” Deuteronomy 28:1
→“We must obey God rather than men.” Acts 5:29
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Father God, please give me the power and the desire to obey You above all else. Help me never to take glory for myself for what You have done. Help me to be bold to speak the truth even when it’s most difficult. In Jesus Name.
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Happy Thursday She’s.
Just a little side note – Daniel was approximately 17 years old when he interpreted Nebuchadnezzar’s dream!
Oh wow, I did not realize Daniel’s age.
Amen!
Amen❤️
Thanks for the focus on “obey”!
Amen! ❤
Praying your prayer today❤️
King N demanded the impossible, yet nothing is impossible for Almighty God. Daniel prayed, asked, listened, praised and reported to king N all that God had revealed and what a revelation that was!
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Daniel was empowered to recount detail after detail of the dream (which sounds more like a vision to me) and king N remembered the dream in as much detail as was revealed to Daniel.
The details of a dream are always lost to me, just a sense that it didn’t make any sense as I wake up.
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Psalm 10:16a The Lord is King forever and ever
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Amen and amen.
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B❤️ so proud of you starting the journal!!!
TRICIA C good to see you!❤️
GWINETH52 ❤️
RHONDA J ❤️ praying for your dad, and safe travel
CEE GEE ❤️
MERCY ❤️
MARI V ❤️ thank you for sharing about the “really good job” that wasn’t
WENDY B ❤️ “waiting in expectation”
SHARON JERSEY GIRL ❤️
The Lord is King….Amen ❤️
Amen! ❤❤❤
Thank you for the ❤️, I’ve been busy finishing up back log work before my surgery next Wednesday. Thank you for your love and faithful prayers for many of us. Hugs and love.
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The study is perfect for this time in my life. God is so good
Amen!
I am loving this study! Such great comments and insights! Today when reading about the rock that fell off and shattered them all, I immediately thought of Christ our cornerstone – the one the builders rejected. I then did a quick search of verses speaking of Christ as the rock – here are but a few:
Daniel 2:34–35, 44–45 — A stone was cut out, but not by human hands… the rock… became a huge mountain and filled the whole earth.
Psalm 118:22 — The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Isaiah 28:16 — See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation.
Matthew 21:42 — The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone.
Matthew 21:44 — Anyone who falls on this stone will be broken to pieces; anyone on whom it falls will be crushed.
And of course the song, Christ alone, cornerstone, weak made strong in the Savior’s love, through the storm, he is Lord, Lord of all. Hillsong
Great connection and observation. Thank you for sharing ❤️
Powerful paralkel verses, Tami; thanks for sharing! Great sing, too! Haven’t sung it at church in a long time. ❤
Awesome extra verses for more context/ revelation. Thank you Tami!
Thank you for this connection!!!
I thought of those verses too when I read that part! Amazing how scripture interprets scripture!
“So in the presence of the most powerful man in the world, as a prisoner in the midst of humiliating exile, Daniel proclaimed the everlasting supremacy of Christ’s kingdom.”
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Daniel’s confidence in his God to go before him and deliver him is amazingly powerful in this account. The king’s response to the interpretation begins his journey of knowing the God of the Jews, “Your God is indeed God of gods, Lord of kings, and a revealer of mysteries, since you were able to reveal this mystery.”
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I’ve often wondered if Daniel’s description of N in the interpretation ( 37 Your Majesty, you are king of kings. The God of the heavens has given you sovereignty, power, strength, and glory. 38 Wherever people live—or wild animals, or birds of the sky—he has handed them over to you and made you ruler over them all. You are the head of gold.) is what gave him the idea to build the huge gold statue later.
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RHONDA J – praying for your visit with your dad. May the Lord give him some relief from his pain.
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Praying for y’all to have a blessed day ❤️
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Interesting thought, Kelly
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thank you Kelly! Yes, good observation!
Also love your observations Sharon, Tami, and Searching!
“…these are words that are sure and sealed and fill us with hope for His return.”
This give us hope, Ladies!
One day King Jesus will be complete ruler of the whole earth and all rule, authority and power will submit to Him, including death!! No more sorrow, tears or grief – all things will be made new.
That is Good News for a Thursday morning! Hoping yours is blessed.
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Amen❤️
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Amen!
I don’t dream about Julee as often as I used to these days, but when I do, I am happy.!
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The interpretation of big N’s dreams would have scared me. I would not have put myself forward as one who could give him the answers he was looking for!
Let’s face it, he wanted to hear what he wanted to hear, so, unless you knew what that was, you had signed your death warrant just by approaching the king!
Daniel, lived his life in service to God, and God alone. Wherever his life took him, he took his God with him. He listened out for Him, he worshipped Him, he prayed religiously to Him. He trusted and believed in God. His hope and very being relied on God.
In this trust and Reliance, he approached big N, saying he could interpret his dream. His living for God and his total and utter trust, freed him to be God’s ambassador, and In turn God did not (never does) disappoint.
I’m thinking, to be honest the dream could have been interpreted in any way, and big N, would have believed, you know why, because they were words spoken by God, through Daniel! Daniel could have told him the interpretation was that he(big N,) would forever be wearing ladies pants and he would have believed.:)
What I’m trying to say is when God is leading, His words are, ARE heard, and are felt in the hearers heart. Big N, trusted what Daniel told him, but in reality Daniel only told him of the Saviour that would come to defeat all enemies, and save God’s people, and in doing so change lives, forever..
When we have God, when we have truth, when we have ‘God with us’ faith, we can face the big N’s knowing God stands with us in everything..❤
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BUT GOD..
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AMEN.
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Praying you all well, and sending much love across the pond… ❤❤
Great observations! ❤️
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Amen!
I love the phrase “when we have God With Us faith”…. Do I have “God with me faith? “
“when we have God, we have truth…”
Yes and Amen❤️
❤❤❤ Amen; Faith over fear!