Scripture:
Daniel 4:10-12
Fri, 12 May 2023

Tale of an Exalted Tree

Observation:

What is the significance of the tree as described in the passage?

Deeper Reflection
Daniel 4 is about a two-part dream of Nebuchadnezzar, with the story narrated in three stages: vision in the dream (Dan 4:10-18), interpretation of the dream (Dan 4:19-27) and actualisation of the dream (Dan 4:28-37).When Nebuchadnezzar had his dream, he did not know that the dream was about him until Daniel interpreted for him. Until then, Nebuchadnezzar could only describe the content of his dream. The first part of the dream was a vision of an exalted tree (vv.10-12), which Nebuchadnezzar would realise later depicts his supreme greatness and glory.We can be like this exalted tree in various ways. We may be at a “great height” (v.10) – in high positions or at the peak of our accomplishments. We may be pursuing our great dreams and ambitions, and keep pursuing them until we reach our limits – “the sky” (v.11). We may be seeking to be “large”, “strong” and “beautiful” – appearing good and great on the outside, and to be “visible to the end of the whole earth” (vv.11, 12). We desire to be prominently “visible” before people and it matters a lot to us if what we have done has gone unnoticed. Jesus warns us: “Beware of practising your righteousness” – in spirituality and charity – “before men” intentionally “to be noticed by them” (Matt 6:1).There is a biblical place to be “great in the sight of the Lord” (Lk 1:15). It is a gift from God. It is a greatness as defined by God and it can be in ways that do not conform to the human idea of greatness.
Application:

How do I look at human greatness and glory?

Prayer:
Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.
Prayer Pointers:
  • Give thanks and praise
  • Pray for SGI leaders: To not seek after human greatness and glory
  • Pray for significant people
  • Pray for those in need
  • Pray for self
 

Download this Building Fund QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for East QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for WDL QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Daily Devo
Daily Devotional Journal
Sun, 31 December 2023

Sunday Journal

Past Week’s Review
  • What was my high point and my low point for the week?
  • What gave me life and what drained me?
  • How was the Spirit of God at work?
Reflect

What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond

What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying?
Commit in prayer.

Download this New Life Fund QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

Download this General Fund for BPJ QR Code  and upload it to your banking app via your gallery/album. 

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.