Daniel and retirement

Daniel was around 85 years old, and had faded into the background. Belshazzar did not know who he was, and the queen had to point him out. Because of Belshazzar's partying and disrespect, Daniel was again thrust into the limelight.

Perhaps he would have preferred staying back, drinking coffee and writing his memoirs, but this was not to be. Darius was confronted with Danie's wisdom, so he put him right to work. And, Daniel did his work in his usual manner - neither corrupt nor negligent.

This of course did not set well with the other leaders and so they attacked Daniel's faith.

Why would God not allow Daniel to retire, but again get him into deep trouble? When have we done enough for God? sacrificed enough, or forgiven enough?

God Bless,
Pastor Wayne

Daniel and forgetting the past

Belshazzar should have known better.

As the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, and claiming Nebuchadnezzar as his father, Belshazzar should have known what happens to those who mess with the God of Israel.

But he did not remember the past. His focus was on his own enjoyment and security as the enemy was blocked out by the walls that his fathers had built. He was safe, and foolish.

So many of our church people today are in trouble because they do not know the past works of God, and therefore can not learn from their mistakes and victories. The Holiness of God is exchanged for the moral definitions of the present, and so we become blind to the enemy that is creeping under the walls to destroy us.

Look to the old stories - not for amusement, but to learn of our God.

Pastor Wayne

A Proud Heart

We know that we should share our glory with God -- oops, I think that is reversed.

Nebuchadnezzar was told that his glory and kingdom came from God.

Nebuchadnezzar was warned that his pride, and claiming the honor that belonged to God for his own was not good.

Yet, he still exalted himself above God.

When the crash came, it still took him 7 years to accept that which he knew in theory for many years.

It is a good thing that we are not like him. We stand guard over our pride so that we will not voice the same sentiment that he did.

Are we standing guard against letting our attitude out, or do we truly believe that our glorious (or almost glorious) little kingdom is completely a result of God's grace, not our own skills and wisdom.

May we learn from Nebuchadnezzar's experience rather than having to repeat it for ourselves.

God Bless,

Pastor Wayne