Daily Devotion  ·  #397

God is in Control

Daniel 2:21

Key Text:

“And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding.” - Daniel 2:21

Introduction

Daniel 2:21 is a powerful reminder that God is sovereign over all things—time, history, leaders, and wisdom. Daniel spoke these words after God revealed King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream to him, demonstrating that God alone controls the rise and fall of kingdoms and grants wisdom to those who seek Him.

In a world where circumstances seem unpredictable, this verse reminds us that God is always in control.

1. God Controls Times and Seasons

“And he changeth the times and the seasons…”

  • God determines the times and seasons of life. Nothing happens outside His will.
  • Ecclesiastes 3:1 - “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.”
  • Sometimes we go through seasons of joy, growth, waiting, or hardship, but God is working through all of them.
  • Are you in a difficult season? Trust that God knows when to change it.

2. God Controls the Rise and Fall of Leaders

“He removeth kings, and setteth up kings…”

  • God, not man, determines who is in power.
  • Leaders may think they have power, but God is the ultimate authority.
  • Proverbs 21:1 - “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: he turneth it whithersoever he will.”
  • Examples in Text:
    • Nebuchadnezzar thought he was untouchable, but God humbled him (Daniel 4:31-32).
    • Pharaoh resisted God, but God used him to show His power (Exodus 9:16).
    • Jesus before Pilate - Jesus reminded Pilate that his authority came from God (John 19:11).

No matter who is in leadership, God is in control, and His plan will prevail.

3. God Gives Wisdom and Understanding

“He giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding.”

  • True wisdom comes from God, not human intelligence.
  • Proverbs 2:6 - “For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.”
  • James 1:5 - “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God.”
  • Daniel’s example - Daniel sought God for wisdom, and God gave him the ability to interpret the king’s dream (Daniel 2:19).

Do you need wisdom today? Seek God, and He will provide it.

Conclusion

Daniel 2:21 teaches us three powerful truths:

  1. God controls the seasons of life - Trust Him in every situation.
  2. God controls leadership and history - No ruler is above Him.
  3. God gives wisdom to those who seek Him - If you need direction, ask Him.

No matter what happens in the world, God is in control. Trust Him, seek His wisdom, and believe that His plan will never fail.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for being in control of all things. Help us trust You in every season of life. Give us wisdom, guide our steps, and remind us that Your plans will always prevail. In Jesus’ name, Amen.