Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Daniel 11 and Psalm 2

The vision of Daniel 11 is another prophetic revelation to Daniel about the medium-term future of the Persian Empire, the Greek Empire that would replace it, the Seleucid Empire, the latter’s most significant and evil king, Antiochus Epiphanies and the havoc he would wreak on Jerusalem. It is startling in its detail and accuracy.

The final section from v.36-45, however, appears to shift to the very end of the age, and the coming of the Antichrist. This fulfilment is, of course, still in our future. Of this king who will “do as he pleases”, the vision declares, “He will exalt and magnify himself above every god.” (v.36)

“Making ourselves our own god and doing exactly as we please” could very well be identified as the spirit of the age in which we currently live in much of the democratic world. The predominant trend is for human beings to pursue their own happiness, success and prosperity at all costs, and to resist the imposition of any moral limits by an outside authority. Society in the West has by-and-large rejected its Christian roots and heritage and has embraced an individualistic, self-worshiping humanism.

Christians, however, should realise that this approach to life is dangerously similar to the spirit of the antichrist. Christians march to a different drum. We submit joyfully to the King of all kings, Jesus Christ, following the guidance of His teaching and the empowering of His Spirit, to do His will and please Him.

Lord Jesus, I joyfully submit myself to Your perfect leadership and Lordship. I remind myself that I am not my own, but Yours, and that I am covenanted to live for Your pleasure and not my own. Please empower me for this life of loving obedience today. In Your mighty name I pray. Amen.