| No one likes to convey bad news, yet many times it must be done. Doctors, police and pastors have all faced that situation when the truth has to be told, even though it may seriously hurt. That is the time to practice what Paul instructed us, "Speak the truth in love." Nebuchadnezzar apparently meant a great deal to Daniel. He was deeply moved by the king's dream. Daniel might have opposed all that Nebuchadnezzar stood for but undoubtedly he often prayed for the king's soul. Was this whole action by God an answer to Daniel's prayers? As Daniel stood there, the king saw his dilemma. He said, "Tell me everything, Daniel, even if it is bad news." Reluctantly Daniel had to say, "O king, you are the one. You are the tree that is to be cut down." Then he outlined exactly what was going to happen to the king. Then Daniel turned evangelistic. Look at verse 27. Daniel spoke out of a heart of love and appealed to the king to change his lifestyle and acknowledge the true God. Nonetheless, Nebuchadnezzar still refused to listen and God had to deal further with him. Even so God waited one whole year (vv.28-29). No one is as patient as God. For one more year, which is equivalent to twelve months, 365 days, 8760 hours or 525, 600 minutes, God waited. God is like that. He waited 120 years after he told Noah the flood was coming. God still gave the people seven more days after Noah had gone into the ark before He sent the rain. He is still the same. 2 Peter 3:9 says, "He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Is God waiting for you? Has He asked you to do something and you haven't done it? Why not do it now before He has to speak again? He loves you. He is waiting. | 
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