Daily Devotion for February 23, 2025

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read Daniel 5:1-30.

The phrase “The handwriting on the wall” is often used by people who have no idea where it came from. As you can see by reading this passage, this Bible story is where it came from. King Belshazzar of Babylon had flaunted his power, even to the extent of showing disrespect to the God of Judah.  When Daniel interprets for him what the handwriting on the wall means, he realizes that he is going to suffer consequences for his actions.  Still to this day, when we say “the handwriting is on the wall” we mean that it is obvious something (usually bad) is about to happen. 

 

However, through Jesus Christ, there is always good news. Even when the handwriting is on the wall, if a person will humble themselves, repent of their sin and seek forgiveness, they can be assured that God does forgive them. There may still be some consequences for what they have done, but they can know that God has forgiven them and will be with them through those consequences.  

The next time you face the handwriting on the wall, or you know someone who is facing impending consequences, remember this good news and share it with whoever needs to hear it. Thanks be to God for the gospel of Jesus Christ!

 

 Personal Worship Option:

Offer this prayer or one in your own words: God of justice and mercy, thank you for this reminder that there are consequences when we disrespect you. But more than anything, thank you for the good news you sent us through Jesus, always extending to us the marvelous gift of forgiveness. In his name I pray, Amen.