5. From Pride to Humility: Feb. 1, 2020

This week January 26-February 1, 2020, entitled, “From Pride to Humility”. Our SSLesson gives us lessons that we should learn as what King Nebuchadnezzar learned from his experience.

1. Abandoning Pride – Daniel 4:30:

Do we abandon our pride (spiritual pride ruins our walk with God)? Let's humble ourselves before God and listen to His voice speaking in the churches today (the Meat in Due Season) - the present truth. Daniel had been given the wisdom to interpret the dream and it's about kingdoms on earth until God's eternal kingdom will be established "in the days of these kings" (Dan. 2:44, 45, 35) which after smiting the great image it became a great mountain and fill the whole earth. The stone-kingdom as God's instrument to break in pieces of all nations who were against God's authority (Jer. 51:19-20; Isa. 2:2-4; Mic. 4:1-4; PK 725). His theocratic government which is under heaven (see: Dan. 7:27). King Nebuchadnezzar hasn't learned his lessons - He never abandoned his pride. He proudly attributed his achievements to himself alone. How about us? Study to show yourself approved unto God - 2 Tim. 2:15, With the help of the Holy Spirit we'll arrive at the epitome of Truth (Read John 16:13; TM 475).

2. Accepting God’s Authority – Daniel 4:17:

Do we accept God's authoritative words through His prophets amidst fierce opposition? To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, [it is] because [there is] no light in them. Isa. 8:20 This is the way we decide if the unpopular teachings are presented. Do we accept the inspired writings of His prophets? King Nebuchadnezzar has learned to accept God's authority (Dan. 4:17). Nebuchadnezzar’s punishment for his pride was a type of mental disorder called lycanthropy. He thought he was an animal and began to act as one.

He was sick for seven years until God gave his reasoning back to him. God wanted him to accept that only He “rules in the kingdom of men.”

3. Following the Prophet’s Advice – Daniel 4:27:

Do we follow God's instructions through His prophet EGWhite with regards to Health Reform (Counsels on Diets and Foods), Dress Reform (3SM 253), True Observance of the Sabbath (https://sites.google.com/view/meatindueseason/history-of-the-sabbath-true-observance?authuser=0 etc. Following the prophets, the advice is essential to succeed in our spiritual journey. Let's listen to His voice which is crying in the city (church) Mic. 6:9. Breaking off our sins, be righteous! Break off our iniquity, show mercy to others; poor and naked!

4. Accepting God’s Authority – Daniel 4:34:

The king of Babylon had accepted God's authority after experiencing tragedy in his life. God is constantly giving us another chance to accept Him, so we can enjoy a close relationship with Him.

Would we wait for tragedy to come in our lives before we accept God's authority in everything? Christ will reign as king over the earth before He comes - through His people (TM 422.1) - Heavenly principles of righteousness will reign in the earth - His glory will be seen among the gentiles (Isa. 11:10; Isa. 66:19, 20; Obad. 1:17, 21; Jer. 33:15-17; Rev. 18:1-4)

5. Proclaiming God’s mercy – Daniel 4:37:

Do we experience God's transforming power (DA 826) and proclaim His glory? His experience is a lesson of how harmful pride is. We must imitate Christ and live humbly

(Philippians 2:1-11).

From the Pen of Inspiration:

“There is need of decided changes. It is time for us to humble our proud, self-willed hearts, and seek the Lord while He may be found…

The Lord is calling upon us to come into line. The day is far spent. The night is at hand. The judgments of God are already seen, both on land and on sea. No second probation will be granted us. This is no time for making false moves. Let every one thank God that we still have an opportunity to form characters for the future eternal life.” E.G.W. (Counsels on Diet and Foods, cp. 1, p. 40)