In this chapter it is Daniel's friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who are tested by God. Will they remain loyal to him when they are commanded to bow to an idol that Nebuchadnezzar has created? The three friends were a positions of authority so when they were reported to Nebuchadnezzar for not agreeing to worship as he had declared, the king questioned them, and he gave them a second chance to explain themselves and do as he commanded. If the three friends were to fall and worship this would break God's commandment in Exodus 20:3 “you shall have no other gods than me”.

The three friends told Nebuchadnezzar that their God would be able to save them and yet none of them knew exactly what God would do, and if he chose not to save them in that fiery furnace their faith would remain strong. Just as today, we know that God is able, but we do not always witness the results.

When the men were placed in the furnace they were not alone - four people were seen in the fire - was this an Angel of God or Jesus? Nebuchadnezzar witnessed a miracle when the three friends survived the furnace which proved that they had spoken the truth when they said their God would protect them.

In today's trials do we need to be reminded to be true to God? Or are we tempted to make what is an easier choice and then repent of our actions later? We can entrust ourselves to God's hands - Hebrews 13:5. "I will never leave you or forsake you” and Isaiah 43:2 “I will be with you …when you walk through the fire you will not be burned, and the flames will not set you ablaze.”

***

Question:

Do we focus on Christ all the time?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father – remind us that you will never leave us alone and will strengthen us to endure and overcome our difficulties. You will always be in the flames of our lives. - Amen