OUR DAILY BREAD DEVOTIONAL
Date: June 9, 2026
Topic: GOD'S GLORY AND MAJESTY
Bible in a Year
2 Chronicles 32–33; John 18:19–40
Key Verse
"You said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to the heavens . . . .’ But you are brought down to the realm of the dead." — Isaiah 14:13, 15
Today's Scripture
Isaiah 14:12–15
Devotional Message
The magnificent ceiling of London's historic Banqueting House stands as a reminder of humanity's tendency to exalt itself. Painted by renowned artist Sir Peter Paul Rubens between 1629 and 1634, the artwork was commissioned by King Charles I to celebrate and glorify the reign of his royal family. One scene portrays the achievements of King James I, while another depicts him ascending to heaven on the wings of an eagle. Every guest who entered the hall received the same message: the monarchy was to be viewed as almost divine.
This mindset was not unique to English royalty. In Isaiah's time, the king of Babylon possessed a similar spirit of pride. He imagined himself ascending to the heavens and taking a place among the gods. However, God declared a different outcome. Instead of being exalted, he would be brought low and cast down to the grave. His glory, power, and influence would come to an end.
History reveals the same lesson repeatedly. Ironically, King Charles I was later led beneath the very ceiling that celebrated his supposed greatness before his execution in 1649. The earthly glory he sought could not save him from his mortality.
The truth remains unchanged today: every human ruler, no matter how powerful, is subject to God. Wealth, influence, fame, and authority are temporary, but God's kingdom is eternal. Those who seek to exalt themselves will eventually discover their limitations, while those who honour God will recognize that all power, glory, and majesty belong to Him alone.
There is only one true King worthy of eternal worship. His throne stands forever, and His reign knows no end. Let us therefore humble ourselves before Him and give Him the honour that belongs to Him alone.
— Sheridan Voysey
Reflect & Pray
Reflection Questions:
Why do you think some rulers throughout history have claimed divine status or demanded worship?
How does the humility of Jesus Christ contrast with the pride displayed by such leaders?
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You alone are worthy of all glory, honour, and praise. Help me to walk in humility, acknowledging that every blessing and achievement comes from You. May my life reflect Your greatness and bring glory to Your name alone. Amen.
Insight for Today
King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon eventually learned a powerful lesson about humility. After experiencing God's discipline, he declared:
"Now I, Nebuchadnezzar, praise and exalt and glorify the King of heaven, because everything He does is right and all His ways are just. And those who walk in pride He is able to humble." (Daniel 4:37)
These words stood in sharp contrast to his earlier boast:
"Is not this the great Babylon I have built by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?" (Daniel 4:30)
Likewise, the ruler described in Isaiah 14 sought to elevate himself above his rightful place. Yet God reminded him that no earthly kingdom can endure forever. Empires rise and fall, rulers come and go, but God's kingdom remains unshaken throughout all generations.
Therefore, let us remember that all glory, power, dominion, and majesty belong to God alone. He is the everlasting King whose reign will never end.

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