December 10, 2024
Reflecting on the Names and Nature of God
Jesus: A Stone Cut Out of the Mountain
Inasmuch as you saw that
the stone was cut out of the mountain
without hands, and that it broke in pieces
the iron, the bronze, the clay, the silver, and the gold—
the great God has made known to the king
what will come to pass after this.
The dream is certain,
and its interpretation is sure.
Daniel 2:45
When King Nebuchadnezzar saw the great image in a dream, he saw four future world-ruling empires: Babylon, Media-Persia, Greece and Rome (Daniel 2:31-45). In the end times, the Roman Empire will be revived briefly. Then a stone will be cut out of the mountain to smash the revived Roman world empire. Jesus is the Stone Cut Out of the Mountain who will crush the kingdoms that oppose God; and then Jesus will rule the earth. Where earthly things look discouraging and you think that governments are out of control, remember that one day Jesus will rule the earth. But for now, His influence is exercised through individuals as He rules the hearts of people. Let Jesus influence your world by ruling your heart.
Lord Jesus, I want Your influence to flow through me today. Help me feel Your presence, and help me experience Your power.
Until Jesus returns as a Stone Cut Out of the Mountain, He will not directly rule the world but will influence the world through secular rulers. The hearts of the rulers are in the Lord’s hands, and He influences them concerning His will (Proverbs 21:1). Most of the rulers of governments do not recognize the Lord’s authority over them, but without Him they could do nothing. Pray for the rulers over you so that the Lord can rule their lives and influence your nation for righteousness (1 Timothy 2:1-5). Your prayer for the rulers over you is your contribution to better government and a better life.
Lord Jesus, I pray for those who rule my nation; help them follow principles of righteousness and justice. Amen.
Go Deeper: Daniel 2
Now Jesus rules through the hearts of people, but one day He will rule directly.
Tomorrow...The Holy Spirit: His Voice