Children’s Bible Lessons – Level 2: Lesson 56 “The Handwriting on the Wall”
Featured Passage: Daniel 4-5
King Nebuchadnezzar had a rich kingdom that dominated much of the world in its time, and he was proud of it. He became so filled with pride that God warned him through a dream that he was going to be greatly humbled. Just as Daniel interpreted, for seven years Nebuchadnezzar lived like an animal. When he finally came to his senses, he acknowledged that God was sovereign over all. After Nebuchadnezzar died, Belshazzar became king of Babylon. Belshazzar did not learn anything from Nebuchadnezzar’s mistake. You could say that the handwriting was on the wall.
Discuss:
- What happened to Nebuchadnezzar after he became filled with pride? Do you think Nebuchadnezzar learned anything from this experience?
- What did Belshazzar do that was considered a prideful act against God? From what example should he have learned about the consequences of pride?
- How did God get everyone’s attention? Can you imagine how frightened people must have been?
- What did the writing on the wall say? What did Daniel explain its meaning to be? Today, what does the expression “the handwriting is on the wall” mean?
- How long did it take for God’s warning to become true? Who ruled Babylon after Belshazzar?
Memory Challenge:
Daniel 4:34
And at the end of the time I, Nebuchadnezzar, lifted my eyes to heaven, and my understanding returned to me; and I blessed the Most High and praised and honored Him who lives forever: For His dominion is an everlasting dominion, And His kingdom is from generation to generation.
