We by nature are preoccupied with the future. Like prognosticators and forecasters, we are constantly trying to determine what will happen tomorrow. Unfortunately, our unknown future becomes a breeding ground for anxiety, worry and question. Graciously, God has not left us empty handed. In the Scriptures we are reminded over and over again that God’s plan will not be thwarted, frustrated or defeated. His Kingdom will come, and His will is being done. We must give an unknown future to an all-knowing God. ~ Pastor Dave
Open: Have you ever experienced a seemingly impossible situation? Share your story. What was the outcome? How did you see God’s hand in this situation?
Read: Daniel 2; Luke 17:20-21; Revelation 19-21
Discuss:
1. Have you ever had any weird dreams? Share a few. Describe why Nebuchadnezzar felt “troubled” over his dreams. Read Daniel 2:29. What question was Nebuchadnezzar pondering that led him to such a troubling dream? What are the things that trouble your mind? What keeps you up at night?
2. Who were the magicians, astrologers, sorcerers, and Chaldeans requested by the King (Daniel 2:2)? What type of system did they have for reading dreams? Describe how Nebuchadnezzar’s request was so different. How does their inability to decipher his dreams demonstrate the frailty of human power and wisdom? In what ways are we obsessed with the future? How does worry and anxiety breed on future unknowns? How do we attempt to predict future outcomes?
3. What does Daniel’s response reveal about his faith and character? Describe a moment when you had to be fully dependent on God even though you didn’t know how the situation was going to resolve. Share your story. What role does prayer play in response to difficult situations? What do you find unique about Daniel’s prayer (Daniel 2:20-23)? Do you tend to rely on God’s character or your strength in difficult situations?
4. Describe God’s omniscience (all-knowing) and omnipotence (all-powerful). How should God’s all-knowing nature and sovereignty shape how we view the future? Why do we often question God’s sovereignty and control? How should God’s sovereignty bring us comfort?
5. Describe Nebuchadnezzar’s dream (Daniel 2:31-45). Each part of the image is connected to a different kingdom. Can you list each kingdom represented? The last kingdom will destroy all others. To whom does this Kingdom belong? Describe the nature of this Kingdom (Daniel 2:44-45). What does a Kingdom mentality look like? In what ways are you living for Christ’s Kingdom? How can you better reflect Christ and His Kingdom?
Pray: Take a moment to reflect on the times in the past when you faced a seemingly impossible situation and God came through. Thank God for these moments. Pray that you would live for and anticipate Christ’s Kingdom. Ask God to give you a confident dependence in His plan in current situations both personally and corporately.
Memorize/Meditate: Blessed be the name of God forever and ever, to whom belong wisdom and might. He changes times and seasons; he removes kings and sets up kings; he gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding…Daniel 2:20-21
