The King Learns Humility

Nebuchadnezzar lived among great buildings and many riches. His kingdom seemed strong, and people obeyed his commands. But a new dream left him troubled and unable to understand its meaning.

In the dream he saw an enormous tree. Its branches grew, its leaves were beautiful, and its fruit could feed many. Animals found shade underneath, and birds sheltered among its branches.

Then he heard a command from heaven. The tree was to be cut down, although the stump and roots would be protected. The dream also spoke of a difficult time and of recognizing who had authority over kingdoms.

When Daniel heard the account, he was worried about the king. He was not glad that a proud person would suffer. He respectfully explained that the tree represented Nebuchadnezzar himself and his greatness.

The warning was serious. The king would live apart from other people for a time, until he recognized that his power did not make him the owner of everything. Daniel encouraged him to turn from wrongdoing, act justly, and show mercy to the poor.

Nebuchadnezzar had time to listen and change. A year later, however, as he looked over his palace and city, he became proud again. He spoke of Babylon as though all its greatness depended on him alone.

Then the warning came true. The king lost his ability to rule and lived apart, outdoors. He could no longer lead the kingdom as he had before. His crown could not solve that situation.

The Bible describes very difficult days for him among the grass and animals. He was still a person, not someone transformed into another creature. This was not something to mock. It was a painful time in his life.

At the end of that period, Nebuchadnezzar looked up toward heaven and acknowledged God. His understanding returned, and he began to praise the King of heaven, whose power does not end like the power of human kings.

His counselors came to find him again, and he was able to rule once more. Now he had a reason to speak differently. His achievements did not make him the most important person in the world or give him the right to look down on others.

The king told what he had learned. He recognized that God acts justly and that pride can be brought low. He had been given an opportunity to learn humility and give thanks.

We can enjoy what we do well without forgetting the people who help us. Saying thank you, listening to advice, and treating someone going through a hard time with dignity are small ways to grow in humility.