Topic: Handwriting on the Wall
The concept of God's judgment is one that is often misunderstood or overlooked. Daniel and King Belshazzar provide a vivid illustration of this concept. We see that God's judgment is inescapable, regardless of one's status, power or wealth. King Belshazzar, despite his royal standing and the wise men at his disposal, could not decipher the writing on the wall. This was a clear demonstration of God's judgment, a divine message that no human wisdom could unravel. This moment in Daniel chapter five highlights the impartiality of God's judgment. King Belshazzar was a powerful king, yet he was not exempt from God's judgment. His power and wealth could not save him from the consequences of his actions. This serves as a sobering reminder that no one is above God's law and judgment. It doesn't matter how powerful or influential one might be; God's judgment is inescapable.
The writing on the wall was a direct message from God to King Belshazzar, a message of impending judgment. The king's inability to understand the message underscores the fact that human wisdom and understanding are limited and cannot comprehend the divine judgment of God. God's judgment is also comprehensive. It is not just about punishment for wrongs done; it is also about setting things right. The judgment on King Belshazzar led to the liberation of the Israelites from Babylonian captivity. This shows that God's judgment also carries a redemptive purpose. It is not just about retribution; it is also about restoration and redemption.
King Belshazzar, unlike his predecessor King Nebuchadnezzar, did not recognize the sovereignty of God. He used the sacred vessels from the temple in Jerusalem to toast his idols, showing a blatant disregard for God's holiness. This act of disobedience led to a terrifying moment when a hand appeared and wrote a message on the wall. Despite having the best scholars and wise men in his kingdom, none could interpret the writing. It was only Daniel, a man of God, who could interpret the message. The message was a judgment from God. "MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN," which meant God had numbered Belshazzar's days, found him wanting and his kingdom would be divided. That very night, Belshazzar was killed, and his kingdom was given to the Medes and Persians. The consequences of his disobedience were immediate and severe.
This is a reminder that disobedience to God's commands and disregard for His holiness does not go unnoticed. God is patient and merciful, but there comes a point when He will pass judgment. Disobedience may seem to go unpunished for a while, but eventually, there will be consequences.
In the New Testament, we see this echoed in Galatians 6:7-8, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life."
This principle of sowing and reaping is a spiritual law that applies to everyone. When we sow seeds of disobedience, we reap the consequences of those actions.
Remember, God's love for us is unwavering, and His mercy is new every morning. He is always ready to forgive us when we turn to Him in genuine repentance. As we go about our week, let's keep these lessons in our hearts. Let's strive to live in obedience to God, and when we falter, let's be quick to repent and seek His forgiveness.
See you Sunday,
Dr. Scott Kallem