The Real Power

Place your hope in God. Like Daniel, seek Him for the answers you need. Jesus has real power and His power never fails to bless His children.

“Then the mystery was revealed to Daniel in a night vision. Then Daniel blessed the God of heaven; Daniel said, ‘Let the name of God be blessed forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to Him.’”—Daniel 2:19–20 NASB

Nebuchadnezzar was the supreme ruler with the power of life and death in Babylon. But through his troubling dream, God revealed that the king was a mere human being and there was another dimension far beyond his control or understanding. Not even the wisest men in Nebuchadnezzar’s kingdom could tell him this dream or provide its interpretation. Even these wise men were mere mortals.

In contrast, Daniel was given insight and revelation because he sought God for the answers. He realized that “wisdom and power belong to Him.” Governments change, and new rulers come to power. But even mighty leaders like Nebuchadnezzar have limits. God alone is sovereign. He alone can give real wisdom and reveal “the profound and hidden things” (v. 22).

Rulers only reign for a season. They inevitably fall short and fade into history. Kingdoms will rise and fall. Movements will start and end. However, as Daniel explained, through every change, the real power belongs to God.

Today, the real hope for the world is not new policies or politicians, not movements or military might. Our only hope is to turn to God. He alone has the answer.

Right now, seek God for your nation. Pray that people would turn from pride, sin, and wickedness and recognize their complete dependence on Him. He alone can give us the wisdom, knowledge, and understanding we need.

Reflection Question: Compose a prayer for our nation’s new leaders.