| What is the most dramatic conversion story you have ever heard? In the New Testament it could be Cornelius or Paul. In the Old Testament it must be King Nebuchadnezzar. Yet it is one of the least known stories in the book of Daniel. There are many similarities between Nebuchadnezzar and Paul. Both tried to force people into their pattern of worship and both persecuted those who wouldn't conform. Both refused to acknowledge God speaking to them - Nebuchadnezzar through Daniel and Paul through men like Stephen. Both were humbled by God - the king in Babylon and Paul on the road to Damascus. God had to deal severely with each, but both men were wonderfully changed. Men and women can still put themselves in such a position of pride and stubbornness that God has to deal drastically with them, but His one desire is to bring them to Himself. THE TIMING OF THIS DREAM The warning to Nebuchadnezzar by God seems to be toward the end of his long reign of 44 years. His kingdom was secure. His wealth was unbelievable. His power was supreme. That is always a dangerous place for anyone. It is a dangerous place for a Christian - to become proud of our spirituality. It is possible for us to come to a place, where unconsciously, we tend to think that we don't need the Lord. It is a dangerous place for a church to think that we have arrived at our destination. Nebuchadnezzar had everything and had no sense of need. Then God spoke to him personally. God had spoken before. Now God is speaking again and it is time to listen. Has God been speaking to you? Are you listening? Has He spoken gently? Once? Twice? Is it time to really listen to what He is saying? What is it that He wants you to do? He deals with us in love, but remember "those whom He loves He chastens". He does it for our good. Why not listen to what He is saying to you at this time? | 
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