Daniel chapter seven opens with a vision of four beasts, each more terrifying than the one before, but the Ancient of Days eclipses them all. The first beast was like a lion with eagle’s wings, but its wings had been plucked off. It was lifted from the ground and made to stand on two feet like a man, and the mind of a man was also given to it.
The second beast was like a bear with three ribs in its mouth, and it was told to devour much flesh. The third was like a leopard with four bird wings on its back, and it had four heads and dominion.
The fourth beast is described as terrifying and dreadful, exceedingly strong. It had iron teeth, and whatever its teeth did not destroy, it stomped with its feet. It also had ten horns, and an eleventh horn came up among them that grew boastful and said great things.
These four beasts represent kings and kingdoms. It is typically understood that the first is Nebuchadnezzar, the second is the Medo-Persian kingdom, the third is Alexander the Great, and the fourth is the Roman Empire. Much could be said about these beasts and their details, but for now, suffice it to say that they were tremendous and unstoppable forces.
These beasts were bad news for the nation of the people of God, who were in captivity at the time of the vision. It was like being kicked while you were down. Life is sometimes like that—there are forces we cannot control, and as much as we may try to resist, they have their way with us. Thankfully, there is more to this vision.
As Daniel looked, he saw thrones, and the Ancient of Days took His seat. His clothing was white as snow, His hair like pure wool, and His throne was fiery flames. The court sat in judgment, and the books were opened—Jesus was on his throne.
The fourth and most terrifying beast was killed, and the other three had their dominion taken away, even though they were allowed to live for a while longer.
No matter what uncontrollable forces may push you around in this life, Jesus is on His throne, and those who place their faith in Him are His children. He will save us; every principality and power contrary to Him will be judged and ultimately destroyed.
Take heart, children of God. All the powerful beasts who rise against his Kingdom will be subdued by the Ancient of Days. Every one of us, even those the beasts killed in this life, will stand in glory before his throne and give him praise.
-D. Eaton
The Fight of Faith 