Read Daniel 3:1-18
King Nebuchadnezzar’s massive golden statue was as tall as the distance between bases on a baseball diamond and as wide as an alligator. It’s helpful to put the size into perspective, realizing what an “eyesore” this would have been. Especially for Daniel’s friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego!
Word of their refusal to worship the king’s golden idol reached the kings ears. Nebuchadnezzar became furious and sentenced these men to burn up in the furnace, just as he had warned would be the case for anyone who refused to worship the idol.
What do you think the underlying motive was for the astrologers who had “tattled” on the Jews? Were they being good patriots or jealous that foreigners we in positions of authority? Why does there always have to be a villain?
Would you have been so bold as to refuse to bow to the idols or others? We have plenty of idols around us today. They may not be towering gold statutes, but we’re often caught up in worshipping success, fame, money, etc. Anything that captures our attention and draws us away from God can be an idol.
Were you surprised by how these Jews responded to the king’s inquiry? “If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God whom we serve is able to save us. He will rescue us from your power, Your Majesty. But even if he doesn’t, we want to make it clear to you, Your Majesty, that we will never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you have set up.” These men were ready to sacrifice themselves, their very lives, before they would consider showing their allegiance to anything but God.
No wonder the example of these men has been preached for generations. I’ve taught this story countless times to children during Sunday School or Vacation Bible School lessons. What these men did is remarkable, but what God did is even more amazing. We’ll leave that for our next reading and reflection.
Standing firm is our lesson for today. Temptation is going to come. Our busyness is going to choke out the possibility of spending more time building a relationship with God. How we respond to the challenges and distractions of life matter to God. The Jewish men in our story made the decision to stand firm. They didn’t give in to even the king’s request. Why do we find it surprising that someone could be so devoted to God?
Let’s pray. Thank you, God, for the steadfast faith of the men in this story. I’m not sure how I would have responded when the king demanded my obedience. I pray that you will fill me so full of you and your wisdom that there is no question who I belong to and who I worship. I cherish each moment I can spend with you. I love seeing your handiwork in my life as I strive to shine brightly for you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
