Daniel's faithful service to the Lord in a land and culture not his own makes him unique among almost all the people of Scripture -- Daniel stands as one of the only major figures in the Bible to produce a completely positive record of his actions.

This week's study is all about the sin behind all sins: PRIDE. There's not one person on the planet who doesn't fight his or her pride. While it would be easier to keep his mouth shut, Daniel speaks the truth in love to King Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel speaks God's truth, showing us once again what it looks like to be faithful to God, no matter what.

I encourage you to read Daniel chapter 4 before diving into the questions.

Plan to join us this Sunday morning at 10:30 am or revisit the sermon anytime on our website redoakpresbyterianchurch.com

Questions to Ponder:

1. Why do you think Daniel opens this chapter with a first person account from Nebuchadnezzar? What attitude does the king present to the people? What thoughts does he seem to have about Daniel's God?

2. How is pride connected to all sins?

3. Why is it not arrogant of God to humble everyone whose pride threatens His glory?

4. If Daniel had already interpreted a dream successfully for the king, why do you think he was so troubled about sharing this interpretation?

5. Why is speaking the truth in love often very hard? How does Daniel model well speaking the truth in love?

6. What does the king's stubborn reluctance to repent say about his heart? Why, even after seeing God's power, would he continue to be so stubborn? How is this similar to the way believers today sometimes respond to God's call for repentance or heart change?

7. How can someone who experiences great success in this world remain humble?

8. What is God showing Nebuchadnezzar in making him animal-like?

9. How could Nebuchadnezzar have used his kingdom to honor and glorify God instead of trying to steal glory from God? How can you use your gifts, talents, and successes to serve God?

10. How is Jesus our perfect role model for being humble?

11. In what ways do you struggle with pride? Do you need to acknowledge God's sovereignty and be less arrogant or demanding?