This chapter begins with Nebuchadnezzar’s proclamation to all the nations about what God has done for him. Though Nebuchadnezzar was the greatest king on earth, he declared that God’s kingdom is eternal and God rules over each generation. It was an introduction to his testimony.

While content in his palace, Nebuchadnezzar had another powerful dream. None of his astrologers could interpret it. Finally, Daniel arrived, and the king shared the contents of his dream in which a great tree reached to the sky and extended throughout the earth. It had beautiful leaves and abundant fruit and provided food for all and shelter for the wild animals. Then, a messenger from heaven came down, pronounced judgment on the tree, it was cut down, and its stump chained. Next, the angel pronounced judgment on a man that he would be drenched with dew, eat plants, and have the mind of an animal for 7 years. The angel announced that through this judgment, all people would know that God is Most High, and he sets over the nations of the world anyone he chooses. This is a strong reminder to stay humble and give glory to God. Power corrupts and makes us unnecessarily proud. We desperately need humility to honor God as Lord Most High.
Application: Father, you are sovereign over leaders and nations – and me. Help me to humble myself completely under Jesus as Lord Most High.
One Word: God is Most High over all the earth