Read: Daniel 5:1-31
You have lifted up yourself against the Lord of heaven. (v. 23)
Daniel’s first four chapters paint a complex portrait of Nebuchadnezzar. Babylon’s emperor was at turns brutal and thoughtful; arrogant and repentant. Chapter 4 concludes with the once-idolatrous despot on his knees before God. His successor was a different story. Belshazzar was confronted with the hand of God, but unlike Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar would not humble himself. Even Daniel’s dire warning fell on deaf ears. Belshazzar saw “the writing on the wall” yet refused to repent.
God faithfully provides evidence of his presence. Sometimes God offers miraculous help. Other times God sends attention-getting adversity. Each time, God’s intention is to call people to “repent”—that is, turn from their way and return to God. God can use any circumstance to serve as a warning and an invitation: a warning to avoid the impending disaster of his judgment and an invitation to experience the lavish abundance of his grace. Peter writes, “The Lord . . . is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).
The writing on the wall is always there. Every human being will die. Every human lifetime is punctuated by warnings that the end will come. Unlike Belshazzar, we need not fear the writing on the wall. Those of us who already know God recognize his hand and are reassured of his presence and reminded of his promises. So assured, we may, like Daniel, be called to testify to those who see the writing but don’t yet know the hand.
As you pray, ask God to show himself to you, and through you.
About the Author
Ben Van Arragon is the Minister of Worship and Leadership at Plymouth Heights Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids, Michigan. He preaches and teaches the Bible in church, online, and anywhere else he has the opportunity.
