November 17

In Daniel 7–9, God gives Daniel visions of world empires rising and falling—beasts representing kingdoms that dominate for a time before being overthrown. But in the midst of these terrifying scenes, Daniel sees One like a son of man coming with the clouds of heaven. To Him is given authority, glory, and an everlasting dominion that will never pass away. This is the promise of Jesus, the eternal King. Later, in Daniel’s prayer of confession, we see his humility as he pleads for mercy on behalf of his people. Daniel recognizes that even in judgment, God is righteous, and His people’s only hope is His steadfast love.

Psalm 91 paints a picture of the peace that comes from trusting in that same faithful God. He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. No matter the danger or fear, the psalmist finds security in the God who is both refuge and fortress. It is the assurance that even when the world trembles, those who belong to God rest safe under His wings.

In John 19, this eternal promise takes on flesh. Jesus, the Son of Man Daniel saw in his vision, stands before the powers of this world and willingly suffers on the cross. The words It is finished are not a cry of defeat but of victory. Through His death, Jesus conquers sin, defeats the enemy, and establishes the unshakable kingdom Daniel foresaw. His blood secures the mercy Daniel prayed for and the refuge promised in the psalm. The cross, then, becomes both our shelter and our throne of grace—where judgment and mercy meet, and life conquers death.

Together, these passages remind us that God’s kingdom cannot be shaken. Empires may fall, fear may rise, but the reign of Christ endures forever. When we rest in Him, we live in the peace and security of the unchanging King.

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