Immediately

On an appointed day Herod, having put on his royal apparel, took his seat on the rostrum and began delivering an address to them. The people kept crying out, "The voice of a god and not of a man!" And immediately an angel of the Lord struck him because he did not give God the glory, and he was eaten by worms and died. Acts 12:21-23

All this happened to Nebuchadnezzar the king. Twelve months later he was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon. The king reflected and said, 'Is this not Babylon the great, which I myself have built as royal residence by the might of my power and for the glory of my majesty?' While the word was in the king's mouth, a voice came from heaven saying, 'King Nebuchanezzar, to you it is declared: sovereignty has been removed from you, and you will be driven away from mankind, and your dwelling place will be with the beasts of the field. You will be given grass to eat like cattle, and seven periods of time will pass over you until you recognize that the Most High is ruler over the realm of mankind and bestows it on whomever He wishes. Immediately the word concerning Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled; and he was driven away from mankind and began eating grass like cattle, and his body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair had grown like eagle's feathers and his nails like birds' claws. Daniel 4:28-33

Lessons we can learn today from an Old Testament character, Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon; and New Testament character, Herod during the apostle's time. Both of them became proud of who they are, their power, authority, influence. Herod even accepted the praise of men like God and his punishment was immediate, eaten by worms and died. While Nebuchadnezzar, one year earlier was already warned by the prophet Daniel concerning his attitude and character. He was advised to repent and acknowledge God but he did not listen. One year after, he boastfully acknowledges his power, wisdom; and punishment was immediate as well. He became insane and for seven years acted like a madman until he recognized that it is God who can elevate you or banish you from your position of authority. Nebuchadnezzar learned his lesson the hard way. It is after his difficulties that he recognized that there is a real God who is so powerful; nobody can thwart His purpose and authority.

From the lesson we have learned today, we likewise need to acknowledge that God alone is in control of everything. Nothing misses his attention. If we humble ourselves before Him, he will promote us but if we boast of ourselves, He will demote us. Let us be aware that true promotion comes from God alone. He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Have a nice weekend!