How should we respond to spiritual desolation in our personal lives today? Desolation Seen and Felt Daniel 8:13 — “Then I heard a holy one speaking, and another holy one said to the one who spoke: ‘How long will this vision of the regular sacrifice apply, while the transgression that causes desolation continues, so that both the sanctuary and the host will be trampled?’” • A literal prophecy: the trampling of the temple under Antiochus IV and, in fuller scope, the future Antichrist (cf. Daniel 9:27; Matthew 24:15). • A timeless cry: “How long?” expresses every believer’s anguish when God’s presence feels distant and life looks ruined. Recognizing Spiritual Desolation in Our Own Lives • Coldness in worship—prayer feels mechanical, Scripture reading dry (Psalm 63:1). • Persistent sin or rebellion that “tramples” conscience (Hebrews 3:12-13). • External pressures—persecution, injustice, unanswered prayer—that tempt despair (2 Corinthians 1:8-9). Scripture’s Pattern for Responding 1. Remember Who Rules • Daniel’s entire vision centers on God’s precise timetable; the desolation has limits. • Psalm 103:19 — “The LORD has established His throne in heaven, and His kingdom rules over all.” • Practical step: speak truth aloud—write verses on cards, sing doctrinally rich hymns. 2. Cry Out Honestly • Daniel doesn’t mask his confusion; neither should we (Psalm 13; Habakkuk 1:2-4). • Lament is faith-filled speech, not unbelief. Record prayers, fast, or pray the psalms of lament. 3. Examine and Repent • “The transgression that causes desolation” (Daniel 8:13) shows sin invites devastation. • 2 Chronicles 7:13-14 calls God’s people to humble themselves, pray, seek His face, and turn. • Ask: Is there cherished sin? A neglected commitment? Obedience restores fellowship (1 John 1:9). 4. Anchor in the Finished Sacrifice • The daily sacrifice was interrupted in Daniel’s vision; Christ’s once-for-all sacrifice cannot be (Hebrews 10:12-14). • Preach the gospel to your own soul—His blood secures access even when feelings waver (Hebrews 10:19-22). 5. Persist in Hopeful Waiting • God answers the angel’s “How long?” with a specific number (Daniel 8:14). Our seasons also have an appointed end (1 Peter 5:10). • Psalm 42:5 — “Hope in God, for I will yet praise Him.” “Yet” is the vocabulary of hope. • Practical step: create a “yet” list—future praises you’ll offer when God turns the tide. 6. Stay in Community • The “host” was trampled together; restoration also comes corporately (Hebrews 10:23-25). • Invite trusted believers to intercede, exhort, and remind you of truth (Galatians 6:2). 7. Engage in Active Watchfulness • Daniel’s vision stirs vigilance against compromise (Ephesians 5:15-17). • Guard inputs—media, conversations, habits—that dull spiritual affections (Proverbs 4:23). Encouragement from Other Saints • Elijah under the broom tree (1 Kings 19) — God provided rest, food, whispered assurance. • Asaph in Psalm 73 — perspective changed in the sanctuary. • Paul in 2 Timothy 4:17 — “The Lord stood with me and strengthened me.” Looking Ahead to Ultimate Restoration • Temporary trampling points to final triumph: the sanctuary will be vindicated (Daniel 8:14); creation itself will be renewed (Revelation 21:5). • Romans 8:18 — present sufferings not worth comparing with coming glory. Summary Actions • Rehearse God’s sovereignty. • Lament honestly. • Repent thoroughly. • Cling to Christ’s finished work. • Wait with hope. • Lean on the church. • Watch your walk. Spiritual desolation is real, but it is never final. The God who set a limit to the temple’s trampling sets a limit to yours—and He will make His dwelling place radiant again. |
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