TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
[Nebuchadnezzar] said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” Daniel 4:30
TODAY’S MESSAGE
The story of Daniel 4 plays out in world history over and over. This isn’t about a fiery furnace or a lion’s den. Instead, it’s a story about how someone handles success. Nebuchadnezzar rules one of the most powerful kingdoms the world has seen. As he surveys his empire, he believes his greatness has created it. He thinks, “I did this.” God steps into the story to remind Nebuchadnezzar who gave him the kingdom.
Pride is one of the core issues people face. No one has to teach us to be proud; it’s something we come by naturally. We may not rule the world, but pride creeps in nonetheless. We look at what we have done and think, “I did this.” We believe we deserve the starting spot on the team; we built this company; we earned this degree or we formed this family. While we certainly played a role, we also must recognize God’s role. Our natural inclination is to praise ourselves instead of thanking God for his part. We say “I did this” instead of “thank you” to God for where we were born, our parents, our mental or physical giftings, the people we connected with or the adversity that shaped us along the way.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Open your journal or notes app. Take some time to reflect on the areas of your life you are most proud of and the times you’re tempted to say, “I did this.” Compile a list, and then write next to each item, “Thank you, God, for giving me ________.” Pray and ask God to help you turn from pride to gratitude for the part he played.
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.
MICAH 6:8
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
