July 7, 2024

If you grew up in church, then you, most likely, learned about the story of the Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego and the fiery furnace in Sunday school. Nebuchadnezzar had a golden statue made in his likeness and wanted everyone to fall and worship it when they heard the music playing. However, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in a display of unwavering courage, refused to obey the command because they only worshipped God.Some Chaldeans tattled on them for not bowing down to the image, which infuriated the king. However he gave them another opportunity to follow his orders but they refused which made him even more angry. Because of their refusal , the king commanded that the furnace be heated to seven times hotter than usual, and had them bound.

If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Daniel 3:17-18

The guards that threw them in the furnace died because it was so hot. However, when Nebuchadnezzar looked into the furnace, he could see four people walking around unbound. He was shocked because he knew they only put three people in there. We understand that the extra person was either Jesus or his representative. Nebuchadnezzar called for them to come out. Not one hair was singed nor did they smell like smoke. This miraculous protection is a testament to the unwavering faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and it should reassure us of God's power and protection. The king decreed that no one shall speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and if they did, they would be cut in pieces, and their houses would be made a dunghill. 

Your faith in God may be tested at some point in your lifetime. Will you be able to withstand the test?