Scripture
Our verse for today comes from Daniel 5:21, ” He was driven from the sons of men, his heart was made like the beasts, and his dwelling was with the wild donkeys. They fed him with grass like oxen, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven, till he knew that the Most High God rules in the kingdom of men, and appoints over it whomever He chooses. “
Background
You’re not one of those people who walks down the street, having a conversation with himself, dressed in way too many clothes, and smelling less than fresh. You’re not sleeping outdoors and pushing your belongings around in a cart, being avoided by most people who pass you by. But, are you convinced deep in your soul that God rules on this earth, and that He directs the course of all that happens? I’m afraid that we might too quickly answer yes to that question. It addresses some basic understandings we have about God and His sovereignty, power, and authority, and we would never question His ultimate supremacy. But what parts of the way you live each day, the days that come each morning without any help from us, reflect your conviction?
Application
What about your heart? What is it made like? Is it consumed with the daily drive to succeed or impress like the beasts that fight for survival? Does it crave the taste of being a big fish even if in the smallest of ponds? And what are you being fed with? Are you being filled with His Word, filled with His Spirit, and filled with a love that never fails? Are you fed by the encouragement and joy you offer to others, or do your taste buds crave the juicy treats of gossip or being part of the clique?
And what of your body? Is it receiving the sweet dew from heaven, the gentle blessings of God, but wearing His grace as if it were a wet rag? Do you fail to see the blessings and opportunities before you because you are complaining about every little circumstance?
If these struggles sound familiar, or others come to mind that may more appropriately describe your life, then I’m afraid they will continue to embattle you until you live a life reflecting the truth that the Most High God rules in the kingdom of men. Until your mind and speech and actions point to the God who is controlling everything now, the things of man will continue to rule you. And that seems to lead to the ways of the wild donkeys. So give God His rightful place, and let Him keep you in yours.
Charge
As we seek Him today, thank God for reigning today, and not waiting until heaven to show forth His authority. Ask Him to help you live like the man or woman He made you to be, one of His humble servants.
Rich Holt / Originally Published on : BCWorldview.org
Also published on : Medium.com.
