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In Order. Who, What, How?

September 16, 2017. Daniel 7-9.

 

Daniel was the guy in the Bible who was known for quite a few things, including being the receiver of some pretty wild dreams.  Those dreams were often interpreted to be the foretelling of not so fun events.

These visions reminded Daniel of how far away from God they had strayed.  They were facing many disasters and instead of clinging to God’s truth, they separated themselves farther from Him.

Daniel 9:13,14

13 Just as it is written in the Law of Moses, all this disaster has come on us, yet we have not sought the favor of the Lord our God by turning from our sins and giving attention to your truth. 14 The Lord did not hesitate to bring the disaster on us, for the Lord our God is righteous in everything he does; yet we have not obeyed him.

Think about the world today or your life in general.  Take a minute and think how many disasters can you count right off the top of your head; whether they be natural, political, relational?  

Ok you can stop, before you hit double digits and just start feeling totally bummed out.  The world is filled with disaster and with that comes the question, “Why is God doing this?” or “Why is God allowing this?”  The truth is you will never be able to understand God and His plans.  Then again, would you really want to serve a God who you could understand?  But instead of dwelling on the “why questions” like the rest of the world, try and focus on the who, what, when, and how questions.

  • Who can I help in this time of disaster?
  • What is God’s promise to me? (Jeremiah 29:11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.)
  • How can I use this event to grow closer to God and lead others to Him as well/

Daniel 9:18

18 Give ear, our God, and hear; open your eyes and see the desolation of the city that bears your Name. We do not make requests of you because we are righteous, but because of your great mercy. 

Daniel knew the only help they needed during their time of desolation could come from the Lord.  He started paying attention to the truth of who God is and that He is merciful, not to the righteous (because not one is righteous) but to those who humbly come before Him.

Weather the storms in your life today with a captain at the wheel who knows what He is doing and who commands the seas.  Be asking the right questions when disasters come and see how God begins to do His thing while you stand in awe.