June 25: LOOK TO ME AND BE SAVED!

And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever. For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, and His kingdom is from generation to generation. Daniel 4:34

The complete length of time it took to learn the lesson—seven years—was brought to its end by the hand of God. Nebuchadnezzar’s very first act was to look heavenward. It was a voluntary act on his part, and at that moment, the insanity vanished. How readily our Savior acts toward all who look to Him! Now in possession of understanding, the king joyfully pronounced a blessing upon Almighty God. And though he had experienced a calamity, the outcome was a miracle of transformation instead of a tragedy of stubborn unwillingness to be transformed. Once proud and egotistical, the ruler of the Babylonian empire had become a humble child of God. This now compassionate king could look back and see how tyrannical and overbearing he had been. It became his greatest joy to acknowledge the power and worthiness of the Most High. Instead of ridiculous threats (see 3:29), he earnestly sought to simply direct the attention of people toward Him who lives forever. In doing so, he highlighted the miracle of transformation he had personally received from the Creator who is able to cleanse and recreate hearts (see Psalm 51:10). Miracles happen when God’s creatures look to Him for everything that pertains to life. Nebuchadnezzar understood the lesson: true greatness springs from true goodness.

This entire chapter, written by King Nebuchadnezzar, was originally submitted as a proclamation to the people, urging the fear of God for their happiness. In addition, he carried a fervent hope for their salvation. He closes the proclamation thusly:

All the inhabitants of the earth are reputed as nothing. He does according to His will in the army of heaven And among the inhabitants of the earth. No one can restrain His hand Or say to Him, “What have You done?” At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of my kingdom, my honor and splendor returned to me. My counselors and nobles resorted to me, I was restored to my kingdom, and excellent majesty was added to me. Now, I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and honor the King of heaven, all of whose works are truth, and His ways justice. And those who walk in pride He is able to put down. Daniel 4:35-37

This is the last Scripture record of King Nebuchadnezzar. The decree is dated at 563BC. His death probably occurred one to two years later, according to historians. In spite of his pagan past, God saw in him the potential for honesty, purity, and integrity. Therefore we are shown His wonderful dealings with him, all designed to wean him from false religion, placing him in the service of the true God. AMEN!

“Look to Me and be saved, All you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.” Isaiah 45:22