Daniel 4

Message: Nebuchadnezzar recounts the work that the "Most High God" has done for him. 

Time: King Nebuchadnezzar reigned for 43 years (605-562BC). It is difficult to assign a specific date as their is no internal evidence from the Bible to identify a date. John MacArthur stated that Daniel 4 occurred 25-30 years after Daniel 3 and the fiery furnace. Daniel was about 45 to 50 years of age at this time.

What the Lord is Saying: It is interesting that in King Nebuchadnezzar's words he proclaims the greatness of God and his signs and wonders, yet we don't see that King Neb. is necessarily a Christian because God only became great to him after he saw miracles. He called God chief of the holy gods so he believed there was more than 1 god. In this telling, Nebuchadnezzar recounts the dream and what he remembers. And then recounts Daniel's interpretation. 

And then Nebuchadnezzar speaks as to the fulfillment of the dream, talking about what occurred 12 months later. After he saw that he ruled over all, a voice from heaven told him that it would be taken from him. And he will live in the fields with wild animals, eating like a cow, until he learns that God's sovereign control is over all.

And yet now Nebuchadnezzar offers a praise and worship of the Lord most High.

His rule and kingdom is eternal.
No one can compare with Him.
He does as he determines.
No one can stop Him or say to Him, "Why are you doing this?"
God's acts are just and true.
He humbles the proud.

This chapter is a chapter of contrast. King Nebuchadnezzar's empire was great. It was large and his power immense over many kingdoms. He had every reason to be puffed up with pride. Daniel in his interpretation asked Nebuchadnezzar to repent, stating that this is what would set him free (4:27).

Promise: Everyone, no matter the stature or position, will be humbled. But, that humility won't be what saves them.