Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed, “Praised be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who has sent forth his angel and has rescued his servants who trusted in him, ignoring the edict of the king and giving up their bodies rather than serve or pay homage to any god other than their God!”
Into the Text
What an incredible miracle of God! Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did not waiver in the face of death. They refused to bow down to anyone or anything else, even though a blazing furnace stood ready to consume them. They believed that God could save them. Even if He didn’t, they knew He was still the only true God worthy of their worship.
God did allow them to be thrown into the fire, but He protected them from its deadly effects. He even met them in it. When we enter the trials of life, they can feel like a fiery furnace. God does allow us to walk through painful times where our faith is tested. However, He has promised to be with us in the fire (Isaiah 43:2).
It’s important to note that the three men were resolved before the trial came and were faithful to persevere through it. This is an important example for us. We can’t go into the trials of life without knowing who we trust, who we serve, and who we obey.
In the same way, when we set it firmly in our hearts to worship and obey only God, we can much more easily resist the temptations that come our way. Our dedication to God will be evidenced by our actions when we refrain from sins that our culture today urges us to engage in, such as sex before marriage, cheating in school or at work, gossiping about others, and chasing after the vanity of wealth and beauty. Our devotion reveals our hearts.
Prayer
Lord, I know you will meet and walk with me through the trials of life. Help me to resolve to obey you before the trials come. You are the true God, and I am devoted to you. Amen.