Interpretation of the Dream

Like our study of Revelation this summer, this week’s study has us reading prophecies about the coming victory of God in a great spiritual battle. In Daniel 7, we will hear language we also heard in Revelation – about horns, beasts, and kings. As you read, spend less time on the question, “which country is the fourth kingdom?” and more time on the question, “what does Daniel’s vision tell me about the victory of God?

STUDY THE SCRIPTURE

Click here to access the reading from Daniel 7:15-27

For more help use this Bible Study method

 

REFLECTION

 

One Word and the Battle is Won

by Judy Webb

As I watched, this horn was waging war against the holy people and defeating them, until the Ancient of Days came and pronounced judgment in favor of the holy people of the Most High, and the time came when they possessed the kingdom.” (Daniel 7:21-22)

Many Christians are asking if the times we are now living in, aren’t pointing to the end of times. This question has been posed over the ages, whenever things change up in a drastic way. When we experience our life being turned upside down, as with extreme weather conditions, or human behavior, we feel off-balance. When lifestyle practices shock us and stun our senses, we might wonder if Jesus is preparing to return. There is a strong sense of things being wrong in the world and in society right now, so these questions are natural.

It appears as if our circumstances (as with COVID-19), are unique to these times. The suffering and challenges are overwhelming, and we wonder if we will ever feel safe and secure again. We may even pray for Jesus to return, but there is still much to be done. There are many who haven’t heard the Good News of Jesus nor embraced it yet. Maybe He’s waiting so more will know. That is where we come in.

During these times of strong emotions and brokenness, we need Jesus…more than ever. As Christians, we have an opportunity to help our unbelieving family and friends to connect the dots. We have the duty to shine light on the path to salvation. Our love, kindness and gentle words will point to Jesus so much better than our condemnation and ‘in-your-face’ finger waving. Ultimately, who is leading our country, while important, is minor in this grand scheme of things.

His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all rulers will worship and obey him. (Daniel 7:27)

Time is not an obstacle for God. All he needs to do is speak a Word, and everything will be as it should. Evil will be punished, and our God will reign.

UALC’S CAMPAIGN OF PRAYER - MONDAY 

HUMILITY: Soften our hearts to one another. Give us eyes to see our common humanity, each of us and all of us created in your image, and give us the gift of empathy, to care deeply about one another.