Daniel 4:19-27
We may well understand the inward conflict that takes place in Daniel’s heart when he discovers the significance of the dream. To tell the truth in such circumstances is to risk death. But he does not flinch. The awareness of the commission he has received from God gives him courage to unfold before the king’s eyes the plan of his destiny. Such courage excludes neither wisdom nor gentleness; he knows how to speak in a spirit of grace, seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6). May the Lord encourage us by the example of this faithful servant. We, who know from the Word what the eternal destiny of unrepentant sinners is to be, must not hide this terrible aspect of the truth for fear of displeasing men.
The great tree, a picture of the king, also represents the world at large (see Ezekiel 31:3-9). Proud and flourishing (v. 4), the world is organised to satisfy all the needs and all the lusts of the human race. Its protective shade and its various "branches" ostensibly offer a place and food to each one (v. 21). The world forgets only one thing, that is that "the Most High ruleth" (v. 25). As a result, judgment is going to fall upon it and God, by His Word, warns everyone of it: "Break off thy sins," He says (v. 27), "and be reconciled to God" (cf. Isaiah 58:6-7).