The writer of Proverbs (Solomon) says that wisdom comes from God (Proverbs 2:6-7). What are we to do with a fact that Daniel considers---that God sometimes gives wisdom to non-believers? In fact, Daniel gets word to the king not to destroy those wise ones in Babylon (Daniel 2:24). Who would have expected wisdom from those who did not believe in Israel’s God? Daniel understood that God plants wisdom in lots of places!
In our political culture, Democrats find it hard to believe that a Republican could have a good idea and Republicans are not usually accepting of an idea that emerged from a Democrat perspective.
In the life of the Church, traditionalists are often suspicious of any insight that comes from a progressive; progressives are usually quick to doubt that there is any truth in an observation by a traditionalist.
On a personal level, even before I read a book by certain authors, I am sure that I am going to find wisdom; on the other hand, I have no expectation of wisdom from some writers. (I’m too embarrassed to call names!)
Daniel gives God the credit for any understanding that comes (Daniel 2:28). When the prophet got some clarity on the king’s mysterious dream, Daniel gives credit to God (Daniel 2:21). Much of what Daniel used in his interpretation no doubt came from his years learning from the Chaldeans (Daniel 1:4). Who would have expected God to use the pagan culture to educate one of God’s chosen?
Daniel wanted to make sure that God, not the Babylonians, got the credit for any knowledge and skill that came to Daniel. That was when he set up the ten days of comparing what the rich royal rations provided or simply eating vegetables. At the end of the experiment, it was obvious—even to the pagans—that it was God who provided the real strength, the real understanding, the real wisdom (Daniel 2:17, 20).
To God be the glory!
What Someone Else Has Said: Sibley Towner (Daniel, John Knox Press) wrote: “Truly, God is the source of all wisdom...and those to whom God has revealed wisdom are of the light, sent into the world to oppose the ‘sons’ of darkness.”
Prayer: As you prepare this lesson, let your prayer begin: “O Source of all wisdom...”
