The King’s Disrespect
Years after King Nebuchadnezzar, a new king ruled Babylon—King Belshazzar. One night, he held a huge feast and used golden cups from God’s temple in Jerusalem to drink wine and praise false gods. This was very disrespectful to God!
Daniel 5:4 (NIV) says:“As they drank the wine, they praised the gods of gold and silver, of bronze, iron, wood and stone.”
The Mysterious Handwriting
Suddenly, a hand appeared and began writing on the palace wall! The king was terrified. No one could read or understand the message. The queen remembered Daniel and told the king to call him.
Daniel 5:25-26 (NIV) says:“This is the inscription that was written: MENE, MENE, TEKEL, PARSIN. Here is what these words mean: Mene: God has numbered the days of your reign and brought it to an end.”
Daniel’s Warning
Daniel explained that King Belshazzar had not learned from Nebuchadnezzar’s mistakes. He was prideful and did not honour God. Because of this, his kingdom would be taken away.
Daniel 5:23 (NIV) says:“You did not honour the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways.”
That very night, King Belshazzar was killed, and his kingdom was given to another ruler.
Daniel 5:20 (NIV) – “…the Most High God is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and sets over them anyone he wishes”
Lesson for Today
This story teaches us that we must respect God and acknowledge Him in all we do. Pride and disrespect lead to consequences, but those who honour God will be blessed.
