“He was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox… until he acknowledged that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth…” — Daniel 4:33, 34
Lesson Objective:
By the end of this lesson, students will:
Understand the dangers of pride and the importance of humility.
Recognize that God alone is sovereign over human kingdoms.
Learn that restoration comes through repentance and acknowledging God’s authority.
Lesson Outline:
Background of King Nebuchadnezzar
Nebuchadnezzar was the most powerful king of the Babylonian Empire.
He had conquered Jerusalem and taken Israelites (like Daniel) into exile.
God had given him dreams and used Daniel to interpret them (Daniel 2 & 4).
Key Note:
Despite God’s warnings and clear demonstrations of His power, Nebuchadnezzar remained proud.
The Dream and Its Meaning (Daniel 4:4–27)
The king dreamed of a great tree that was cut down, leaving only the stump.
Daniel interpreted the dream: Nebuchadnezzar would be driven away, lose his sanity, and live like an animal until he acknowledged God’s rule.
“Renounce your sins by doing what is right… it may be that your prosperity will continue.” — Daniel 4:27
➤ Lesson: God always gives a warning before judgment—and also offers a chance for repentance.
The Fulfilment of the Dream (Daniel 4:28–33)
A year later, Nebuchadnezzar boasted:
“Is not this the great Babylon I have built… by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” — v.30
Immediately, a voice from heaven pronounced judgment.
He was driven from people, ate grass like an ox, and lived in the wild, with hair and nails growing like an animal.
➤ Key Truth:
Pride brings downfall. When we take God’s glory for ourselves, we invite correction.
“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” — James 4:6
Restoration and Praise (Daniel 4:34–37)
After seven “times” (years), Nebuchadnezzar lifted his eyes to heaven.
His sanity was restored, and he praised the Most High.
“Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right…” — v.37
Spiritual Lessons and Insights:
1. God Rules Over All
No matter how powerful a person is, God is above all.
“The Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth.” — Daniel 4:32
2. Pride Leads to Insanity
Nebuchadnezzar’s pride didn’t just bring punishment—it led to madness. Pride distorts reality and leads to self-destruction.
3. Humility Brings Restoration
The moment Nebuchadnezzar acknowledged God, his mind was restored. Repentance and worship brought healing.
Life Application Questions:
Is there any area of your life where you’re taking credit instead of giving God glory?
How does God deal with pride in our hearts today?
What can we learn from Nebuchadnezzar about repentance and restoration?
Memory Verse:
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time.” — 1 Peter 5:6
Closing Prayer:
Lord, keep us from the pride that blinds. Help us to remember that all we are and all we have come from You. Teach us to walk in humility, to give You glory in everything, and to learn from Nebuchadnezzar’s fall and restoration. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Optional Creative Activity:
Draw or describe Nebuchadnezzar before and after his humbling. Write a short prayer or poem titled “God, You Alone Are King.”
Action Point
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