Daniel 2:11 “What the king asks is too difficult. No one can reveal it to the king except the gods, and they do not live among humans.”

On one level, Nebuchadnezzar’s demand was entirely unreasonable, and the “wise men’s” response entirely correct. On another level, this was an entirely effective ploy on Nebuchadnezzar’s part to unmask these men, who doubtless enjoyed all sorts of privileges because of their claim to special knowledge or ability. Behind all that, however, was God’s plan to show Himself real, and His servants genuine, in contrast to these “wise men.” As the story famously goes on to reveal, God indeed let Daniel know what Nebuchadnezzar’s dream was, as well as its meaning, thereby showing that Daniel’s God was real, in contrast to the Babylonian pantheon. There’s something about the “impossible” happening that is very convincing! God has always done miracles of various sorts, but seldom in response to human demands. The irony is that we tend not to recognize His hand even when we see it, but attribute events to “chance.” That’s not very smart! We need to remember always that, as Gabriel told Mary, “Nothing is impossible with God,” (Luke 1:37) and expect Him to act in accordance with His character.

I saw several “minor miracles” yesterday. I was working with a short-term missions group that was coming through Omura on their way to the Goto Islands. Weather issues had made them miss their connecting flight in Atlanta and they had to come by a different route than planned, naturally delayed, with other complications on top of that. However, God worked it all out and they made it to Goto just a few hours late, ready to start ministry as planned this morning. Then later in the day as I was driving around taking care of various things I had two very close calls, missing collision with other cars by inches. In both of those cases my actions had been reasonable but insufficient, because I didn’t know what the other drivers would do – but God did, and He enabled me to stop without contact each time. I can’t take credit for either of those, any more than I could take credit for working things out for the mission team. God does act in my life, and I need to pay attention and give Him the glory!

Father, thank You for Your grace toward me. Help me recognize that grace at all times, whether other people recognize it as miraculous or not, and give You the gratitude and glory that are due You alone. Thank You. Praise God!