06/03/2026
Pride goes before a fall
Nebuchadnezzar was the arrogant king of the conquering nation of Babylon. He not only had devastated Judah and taken its people as his captive servants, but he had taken implements from the temple to be used as tools of idol worship, which he had commanded everyone in his kingdom to render or face death. The extent of his pride is captured by these words: "Is not this great Babylon, which I have built by my mighty power as royal residence and for the glory of my majesty?" But while the words were still in his mouth, he was dramatically humiliated by the one who alone has true glory and majesty. By the power of God, Nebuchadnezzar was "driven from among men and ate grass like an ox, and his body was wet with the dew of heaven till his hair grew as long as eagles' feathers, and his nails were like birds' claws."
The pride of the king had been destroyed by the finger of God. We don't know for sure how long Nebuchadnezzar was in that humiliated, animalistic state, but we do know that when he rose out of it and his senses returned, his choking arrogance had been replaced with confidence and a sense of God's grace. Listen to his testimony: "At the same time my reason returned to me, and for the glory of the kingdom, my majesty and splendor returned to me. My counselors and my lords sought me, and I was established in my kingdom, and still more greatness was added to me. Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and extol and honor the king of heaven, for all his works are right and his ways are just; those who walk in pride he is able to humble."
Nebuchadnezzar was confident in the position of power he had been given, the old pride had been broken. What he once took credit for building, he now praised God for establishing. You see, pride takes credit for what it could not achieve on its own, while confidence stands strong because it recognizes the power and presence of One greater. Only divine grace can lead you from one to the other.
