When God Gets Our Attention

Comfort and success can dull our awareness of God, and when God gets our attention, He may shake what feels secure, so we learn again that He alone rules over all.

“I, Nebuchadnezzar, was at ease in my house and prospering in my palace. I saw a dream that made me afraid. As I lay in bed the fancies and the visions of my head alarmed me” (Daniel 4:4–5).

Nebuchadnezzar had the ideal life: He was powerful, content, and prosperous. Then he had a terrifying dream. Suddenly, he felt helpless and afraid.

The interpretation Daniel gave him was that he would “be driven from among men” and dwell “with the beasts of the field.” He would eat grass just like cattle and remain there “till you know that the Most High rules the kingdom of men and gives it to whom he will” (v. 25). God wanted him to know that all power belonged to Him.

Daniel gave Nebuchadnezzar this advice: “Break off your sins by practicing righteousness, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed, that there may perhaps be a lengthening of your prosperity” (v. 27).

Nebuchadnezzar did not heed this advice. A year later, he was brought low, stripped of his power, prestige, and comforts, and reduced to the life of an animal.

His kingdom was finally restored, but only after he had been humbled and realized that God alone rules in Heaven and earth. In the end, he blessed and honored God and gave Him praise. The purposes of the disturbing dream had been fulfilled.

God often wants to get our attention to point us in a new direction, teach us, correct us, or give us new revelation. Are you listening? Don’t let anything keep you from hearing and heeding His Word.

Reflection Question: What might God be trying to get your attention about right now?