“Let his heart be changed from that of a man. Let him be given the heart of a beast and let seven times pass over him. ‘This decision is by the decree of the watchers, and the sentence by the word of the holy ones, in order that the living may know that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men, gives it to whomever He will, and sets over it the lowest of men.’” (Daniel 4:16–17, NKJV)

Do you remember the TV series Extreme Makeover: Home Edition? Designers, workmen and neighbors would renovate a family’s entire house in seven days. It was remarkable to see what could be accomplished in such a short time when everyone set their mind to it and worked wholeheartedly.

Extreme situations often require extreme makeovers. Certainly this was the case with King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. He had grown, become strong, and accomplished great feats. His majesty had reached the heavens and his dominion to the end of the earth. But as he grew in fame, he also grew in pride. He was extremely successful, but he also had an extreme ego. And that is one thing God cannot tolerate.

“Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” (Proverbs 16:18, NKJV)

God gave Nebuchadnezzar a dream to warn him of what would happen if he did not repent. When he told Daniel the dream, Daniel gave the interpretation and then said, “Let my advice be acceptable to you. Break off your sins by being righteous, and your iniquities by showing mercy to the poor. Perhaps there may be a lengthening of your prosperity.” God is patient with us, not wanting to bring judgment but to pardon everyone who truly repents. Would Nebuchadnezzar heed the warning? Only time would tell.

Likewise, God gives us His word so that we will turn from our sins and embrace His righteousness. He gives us so many opportunities! But His Spirit will not always strive with people. If we continue to ignore His voice and harden our hearts, then judgment will come suddenly, and there will be no escape.

Nebuchadnezzar was an extreme person, and he would require an extreme makeover. We may also need an extreme makeover, but we don’t have to wait for God’s judgment. We can judge ourselves and avoid so much trouble!