His Story

History is literally His story. In this chapter, we see that throughout history and in the time of the End, evil rulers with wicked powers will rise up and bring destruction to this world. But at the end of time there will be one called the “Prince of Princes” who will bring all history into subjection under God. Part of being a Christian is having confidence in God’s sovereignty, which is God’s absolute and total authority, control, and rule over every moment of history. This means nothing is a mystery to God, nothing can be hidden from God, and nothing is a surprise to God. Because He is sovereign, He is using history to reveal His will, purposes, power, and goodness. Finally, He will bring history to His desired end. Daniel chapter 8 is two years after the vision/dream of chapter 7. The time of Nebuchadnezzar has come to an end and we are in the term of King Belshazzar who we know from chapter 5 is not a great ruler. Daniel’s role and influence has been diminished from what it was earlier in his career. God is giving him a vision of what is to come. Daniel, while serving in Babylon appears now to be in Susa a key capitol of Persia. The vision includes a reigning ram, a great goat, and little (big) horns. While the metaphors are deep, the message is clear. The center of the current kingdom, in this case Babylon, is not the final trajectory of history. A nation will rise up and overtake Babylon. It will start in Persia in the east, but will go north, south, and west. No beast (no created kingdom) could stop its progress and purposes. It’s coming victory is inevitable. We remember, regardless of current circumstances, God is in control of His Story.