Today we find Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego in a real tight spot. Nebuchadnezzar is furious with them for not bowing down and worshiping the golden idol image he had created. Actually, the trio was set up. There were some astrologers who were eager to rid their world of these Jews, so they approached the King and pointed out Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's disobedience to the decree.
These young men were faithful followers of The One True God and were very familiar with the Scriptures and the words in Exodus 20:3, "You shall
have no other gods before me."
There could come a time in our life when we might be required to make a decision like these three had to make. When reading the text, it would seem they didn't hesitate, but I wonder if they didn't pause, maybe even pray and ask for a way out. But any way you look at it, they made the only decision they could make, as people who loved and served God. Had more of the nation been like these young men, they would most likely still be living on their own land.
"Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."
This was the response they gave the king when he asked what god will be able to rescue you from my hand? What faith! Oh, to have the faith of these young men. I pray I will never be tested as they were, but should that day come, I want to walk into the furnace without fear.
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