Daniel 5:1-12 The Finger of God and the Hand of God

Nebuchadnezzar eventually passed off the scene and his grandson Belshazzar came to rule.  Babylon had become supposedly impregnable, with fortified bronze gates and a series of walls -- some 300' high -- protecting the city.  They had also stored 20 years worth of food for the inhabitants, and the city was supplied with an adequate water source.

One night Belshazzar was particularly full of himself and ordered cups from the Temple in Jerusalem brought out to be used for a drinking party.  God sent a floating human hand that wrote a cryptic message on a plaster wall, causing the king to be very frightened.  Daniel was called to interpret it after the queen mother recommended him.  It appears that the Medes and Persians were known by the king to be camped outside the city readying an attack, yet he felt secure enough in his defenses to hold this banquet!  

"The finger of God was writing a warning to the Babylonian leaders that the hand of God would very soon execute judgment," my commentary said.

Father, please keep me near Your heart and help me to be constantly aware of where I stand with You.  Don't allow me to ever presume that I know better than You.

 

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford