SOAP 09/21/2015; Daniel 7:26

Today's reading: Daniel 7, 8; Psalm 137; Luke 4

 S) "²⁶ But the court will sit for judgment, and his dominion will be taken away, annihilated and destroyed forever."

Daniel 7:26 (NASB)

O) Daniel saw an apocalyptic dream, of four different beasts rising out of the sea. The vision was confusing, even to Daniel, although God had given him great wisdom about such things. But, the vision was explained (at least in part). The beasts represented different kings (and their kingdoms), the fourth of which was the most powerful. Like the apocalyptic prophecies in Revelation, there are some varying interpretations about these last few books of Daniel (particularly regarding timelines). One thing should be remembered, though, and the verse above highlights it. The LORD is sovereign, and He wins. Whoever this fourth beast is, or the horn on his head, or who he possibly was, it is clear that when the Judge presides, no one can object to His judgment.

A) All external fears of the future should be stripped away, when I read passages like this one. There is no antichrist, no beast, no horn, and no dragon, who can ever stand up against my God. On the flipside, I must remain humble and remember, that judgment starts in the house of God. I must fear the LORD, walk in obedience, and humble myself before Him. This isn't an occasional thing, it's not even a daily thing, it's a constant thing. This isn't an event, it's an attitude. The posture of my heart should be humble. Then, I can have confidence because of Jesus Christ.

P) Father, You are holy in Your power. You preside in righteous judgment over all of creation. For that reason alone, I should fear You only. No one compares to Your power and might. Help me remember that, as often as I remember that no one compares to Your mercy and love. Let me not get distracted with speculations about end-time prophecy. There is so much talk about eschatology that seems to be completely frivolous, sometimes. I don't want to get caught up in all of that. When I think of the future, help me to focus primarily on the joy at seeing my Savior face to face for the first time. It will be such an occasion for joy, when I am found in Christ on that glorious day. Thank You for the peace and joy that I have because of the gospel. Let Your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.