Wed.’s Devo - The Tree

Read: Daniel 4:1-37; 2 Peter 1:1-21; Psalm 119:97-112; Provers 28:17-18
Nebuchadnezzar had another dream but this time he told his wise men the dream. When they couldn’t interpret it, he called in Daniel because he knew Daniel could.
He had dreamed of a huge beautiful fruitful tree that touched the sky. An angel from heaven gave the decree to cut down the tree and leave only a stump. Its roots were to bound with iron and bronze and remain in the field. The tree was to be left to live with the animals and its mind changed from that of a man to that of an animal till 7 times passed by.
Daniel interpreted the tree to be Nebuchadnezzar. He had grown mighty and proud. He would be cut down and driven from humanity to live with animals. He would have to be chained because he would lose his mind. He would remain insane for seven years. Then he would regain his sanity when he realized that God was the king over the earth. Then his kingdom would be returned to him.
Twelve months later, as Nebuchadnezzar was walking on his roof and looking over his kingdom, he praised his own power and what he had done and immediately the dream came to life. He had to be driven from his kingdom and chained in the field like an animal. His hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails looked like the claws of a bird. After 7 years, he humbled himself and praised God and his sanity returned. He was restored to be greater than before but more humble.
Peter reminds us that God has given us everything we need to overcome evil and live a life of godliness. His Word is full of promises that enable us to participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
He gave us characteristics we should walk in: goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love. If we keep increasing in these characteristics our walk will be affective and productive.
Peter reminded them of the prophesies that had been spoken long ago and how they had seen them manifest in their own lives. They heard the voice of God speaking from the mountain on the day they saw Jesus transfigured in glory. They were to remember these things so they wouldn’t lose their faith.
God has given all of us things in our lives that we can go back to to build our faith.
Lord help us to remember all the answered prayers and miracles that you have done in our lives. We set our goal of finishing our race strong in your power and love.