In the first year of Belshazzar king of Babylon, a profound vision came to Daniel as he lay on his bed. This dream occurred roughly around the mid-sixth century b.c. in the heart of the Babylonian empire. The text records the sum of the matters he saw, capturing a sweeping panorama of history and the rise and fall of great earthly powers. It serves as a bridge between historical narrative and apocalyptic prophecy, revealing the turbulence of human kingdoms in contrast to an everlasting divine order. Daniel wrote down the dream to preserve the imagery of four great winds stirring up the great sea and four distinct beasts rising from the waters.

Know God.The Lord is depicted here as the Ancient of Days, seated on a throne of fiery flames with wheels of burning fire. He exists before and beyond the chaotic rise of human empires. His clothing is white as snow, signifying purity, and the hair of his head is like pure wool, suggesting wisdom and antiquity. He is the ultimate Judge who convenes the court and opens the books. He possesses the authority to strip power from terrifying earthly rulers and grant everlasting dominion to one like a son of man. This portrays a God who is not threatened by geopolitical chaos but remains the steady, judicial authority over all history. He shares his rule, granting glory and a kingdom to the Son so that all peoples, nations, and languages should serve him.

Bridge the Gap. Many today look at the news and feel a sense of dread similar to Daniel's reaction to the beasts. The monstrous nature of political systems and the rapid shifting of power can cause deep anxiety. We see modern equivalents of consuming beasts in economic systems, oppressive governments, or cultural tides that seem unstoppable. The vision reminds the reader that despite the terrifying appearance of current events, there is a higher court in session. It validates the feeling that the world is often wild and predatory while offering the assurance that these beasts have a limit to their lifespans. The anxiety of an uncertain future is met with the certainty of a verdict that has already been decided in the heavens.

Take Action. Believers are called to shift their gaze from the turbulent sea to the Ancient of Days. Instead of being consumed by the fear of what earthly powers might do, one should cultivate a perspective of eternal sovereignty. This involves trusting that the court will sit and judgment will be rendered. Action involves living with the confidence of those who will eventually possess the kingdom. It requires a steadfastness in character and a refusal to be shaken by the temporary roars of contemporary leaders or political figures. We must recognize that while the saints may face weariness and opposition for a time, the dominion of the Most High is the only administration that will last forever.