King Nebuchadnezzar had it all. He ruled over the entire world. God had so blessed him that He had given the king complete control. Until…pride came over him. “Twelve months later, as he was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Bavel [Babylon], the king said, ‘Bavel the great! I built it as a royal residence by my power and force to enhance the glory of my majesty!’” (Daniel 4:26-27 (29-30)) That’s where a voice from heaven stopped him, and very harshly. 

He was immediately driven from society to the wilderness to eat grass and drink dew…for seven seasons; because God knew the length of time it would take, even out in the wilderness, for the king to turn from his selfish pride and declare the Almighty God worthy of praise. When he did, he got his kingdom back with more greatness than before.

Foolish Pride….Where are you tempted to be proud of what you have done, forgetting Who enabled you to do it? We all struggle with it. If we look at pride as the destructive spirit it truly is it’s easier to see how toxic our lives become if we let it run free. It will convince you that you have earned everything you have, that you deserve it all and so much more. You will believe everything good in your life is a result of your own power. You will need nothing and no one–you’ve got this!

Then you must be reminded: “Every good act of giving and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father who made the heavenly lights.” (James 1:17) Jesus said, “I am the vine and you are the branches. Those who stay united with me, and I with them, are the ones who bear much fruit; because apart from me you can’t do a thing.” (John 15:5)

The good news is that after your eyes are open, you are left with a testimony of God’s grace and forgiveness. You will be able to praise Him for saving you from you.  “So now I, N’vukhadnetzer, praise, exalt and honor the King of heaven.” (Daniel 4:34 (37)) Who is your heart honoring?