God’s Delegated Authority

Nebuchadnezzar’s life changed when he had a disturbing dream. God supernaturally gave its meaning to Daniel, revealing important insights and even outlining His perspective on world events—what was happening at that time, what would take place in the future, and Nebuchadnezzar’s personal role in these events.

In his dream, Nebuchadnezzar saw a statue with a head of gold. Daniel told him that he was this head. From God’s perspective, Nebuchadnezzar was “the king of kings” (v. 37).

But God also wanted him to understand that he was in that place because of the Lord’s sovereign hand. In fact, Nebuchadnezzar owed everything to God. He was God’s servant, who had been given specific assignments. He was playing a key role in the Lord’s plans for the nations. This is confirmed later in Daniel 4, where Nebuchadnezzar himself recounted how he discovered these truths in a profound way.

We learn many things about God’s plans through His message to Nebuchadnezzar. As we look at today’s world, we see people and nations struggling for power, men and women striving to achieve fame and fortune—fighting wars, building businesses, accumulating wealth and resources, following career paths, thinking about themselves.

All the while, God’s hand is behind every trend and action. He is the same today as He was during the reign of Nebuchadnezzar. He still exalts and blesses those who serve and obey Him, and He also warns of the consequences of disobedience, idolatry, and unfaithfulness.

To accomplish His purposes, He calls specific people to accomplish specific tasks—even people like Nebuchadnezzar.

Today, remember that you are God’s servant. Stay faithful and focused on accomplishing His purposes for you. Always trust in Him.