We Will Not Serve the Babylonian Gods

Faith in Action

A Living Faith in God

A Bold Faith

Daniel 3:13-18 The Message

13-15 Furious, King Nebuchadnezzar ordered Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego to be brought in. When the men were brought in, Nebuchadnezzar asked, “Is it true, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, that you don’t respect my gods and refuse to worship the gold statue that I have set up? I’m giving you a second chance—but from now on, when the big band strikes up you must go to your knees and worship the statue I have made. If you don’t worship it, you will be pitched into a roaring furnace, no questions asked. Who is the god who can rescue you from my power?”
16-18 Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered King Nebuchadnezzar, “Your threat means nothing to us. If you throw us in the fire, the God we serve can rescue us from your roaring furnace and anything else you might cook up, O king. But even if he doesn’t, it wouldn’t make a bit of difference, O king. We still wouldn’t serve your gods or worship the gold statue you set up.”

For Reflection

"But even if he [God] doesn't [save our lives] it wouldn't make a bit of difference." To Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, salvation is not necessarily life-saving.  Salvation is the freedom to choose to worship whom they wish.  In this case, they prefer to worship and follow the Jewish God.  In doing so, it seals their faith and their story as children of God survives.

Pray

Pray so that you will become as bold in your faith as Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.  Pray so that you can mature into a courageous witness to the Living God.

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