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Devotion by Ben Stuart
Therefore, O king, let my counsel be acceptable to you: break off your sins by practicing righteousness, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the oppressed, that there may perhaps be a lengthening of your prosperity.” Daniel 4:27
Daniel urges King Nebuchadnezzar to “break off your sin.” This call to action isn’t merely a suggestion; it is a plea for genuine transformation. Sin can often entangle us like a weed, wrapping around our hearts and minds and stifling our growth. Nebuchadnezzar’s pride had led him to isolation and humiliation, and Daniel confronted him.
Maybe you feel like Nebuchadnezzar. You’re clinging to money, pride, anger, materials, or status to find freedom, but you’ve found slavery. Daniel reminds us to break up with sin and find freedom. What areas of your life need to be surrendered?
Maybe you feel like Daniel. You gently need to tell a loved one that they need to break up with sin. They’re at rock bottom. Their freedom has become slavery. You want to see their salvation, not humiliation. How could you help a loved one break up with sin?
A look can change everything. The once-arrogant Nebuchadnezzar was changed when he “lifted his eyes to heaven.” Lifting his eyes symbolized a shift from self-reliance and pride to God-reliance and humility. He recognized that the true King, the One who reigns above all, is the LORD.
We are prone to look at ourselves, our success, our circumstances, our worries, or our failures. Before we know it, that self-absorption leads to destruction.
But there’s an escape. There is a direction to turn our gaze that does not destroy us, but delivers us. What are you currently fixating on? Lift your eyes to Jesus.
Prayer:
Father,
Like King Nebuchadnezzar,
help me break off my sins and find true freedom in you.
As I lift my eyes to you,
remind me of your power and grace in my life.
Thank you for your patient love.
I love you, LORD.
Amen.