2 minute read.
Daily Reading: Daniel 5-6 GW; James 2 GW
God writes divine messages.
King Belshazzar, the grandson of Nebuchadnezzar, threw a party and decided to use the gold and silver utensils his grandfather stole from God’s temple. Amid the banquet, a hand appears and begins writing on the wall, but no one can interpret the writing. Finally, Daniel, a prophet of God, comes and reads the words: Numbered, Weighed, and Divided.
Daniel explains to the king because Belshazzar used the utensils from the temple, he was declaring himself mightier than God. As a result, God sent this message:
“This is its meaning: Numbered—God has numbered the days of your kingdom and will bring it to an end. Weighed—you have been weighed on a scale and found to be too light. Divided—your kingdom will be divided and given to the Medes and Persians.” (Daniel 5:26-28 GW)
Pay attention to the writing.
King Belshazzar didn’t live to see another sunrise; he died that very night. He ignored the writing because he genuinely thought he was invincible. God sends us messages, too; it’s up to us whether we accept them or not.
The first place to hear from God is through the scriptures. Technology may change, but the human condition doesn’t. Emotional reactions and situations aren’t anything new. Instead of jealousy over someone’s horse, we’re now envious of people’s cars. Relationships endure lying, cheating, and stealing throughout history. How to deal with these situations is what we find in the Bible.
If we ignore the writing, we miss the message. Part of my daily practice is to read the chapter of Proverbs that coincides with the date. Thirty-one chapters mean one for every day, which also equals fresh wisdom daily. Every day my heart receives a message of wisdom from God, written by Solomon for all to enjoy.
Take time to read God’s writing. Spend time in the scriptures daily. Your life will change, without a doubt.
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Lord, thank You for Your love letter to us. Forgive us for not reading the scriptures more. Help us today; receive the message you’re sending us. In all things, let us submit to You. As we read Your word, let it change our lives for the better. Help us represent You well today. IJNIP. Amen
Question for reflection
How has reading God’s word changed your life?