Daily Companion  | 13 August

THE PARADOX OF NEBUCHADNEZZAR: UNRAVELING THE MYSTERIES OF GOD'S WAYS

I have made the earth, the man and the beast that are on the ground, by My great power and by My outstretched arm and have given it to whom it seemed proper to Me. - Jeremiah 27:5 (NKJV)

The unusual narrative of Nebuchadnezzar leads us to revisit the fundamental nature of God's ways, teaching us to perceive God from different perspectives. Today’s devotional will assist us in comprehending God's ways through the paradox of Nebuchadnezzar. 

God's authority and sovereignty are the ultimate. Despite Nebuchadnezzar's extraordinary power and influence as the world leader at the time, he was made to understand that God holds the ultimate authority over the heavens and the earth. Secondly, God chooses whom He will exalt. Nebuchadnezzar, a pagan king, with dreadful atrocities (even against God's people), used as a vessel to showcase His almighty power, confirms that it is not man's righteousness that calls forth God's favour, but rather God's love and mercy. A pagan king became God's servant. "...I have given all these lands into the hand of Nebuchadnezzar the king of Babylon, My servant... (Jeremiah 27). Thirdly, God’s firm stand against arrogance. The punishment of Nebuchadnezzar – his reduction into a state of madness until he acknowledged the power of God – demonstrates God's detestation of pride. God’s intervention brought Nebuchadnezzar from hubris to humility, reflecting the transformative power of God. Lastly, the mercy of God. Despite his arrogance and atrocities, Nebuchadnezzar was eventually restored. This highlights God's rich mercy and His readiness to forgive those who repent, and no one is beyond the reach of God's transformative power and grace.

Dear friend, the paradox of Nebuchadnezzar provokes thoughts on God's unpredictable ways that are characterized by righteousness, justice, and immense love. We thus arrive at the truth that God's ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts (Isaiah 55:8-9). The seemingly improbable and paradoxical examples from the Bible reassure us that God is always in control (even in the secular world), and His plans will always prevail. Repent today and be humble before your Creator.

Today’s Recite: ‘...In order that the living may know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men.’ -  Daniel 4:17.

Today’s Morning Prayer: My heavenly Father, I worship You for Your God and none besides You. I submit to Your plans and purpose for my life. I receive grace to serve YOU in truth and righteousness in Jesus' name. Amen!  

Today’s Hymn: Holy Holy Holy

Today’s ReadMe:  Jeremiah 31 - 33