Living for God in a Godless Society Part 3Sample

NO MATTER THE COST

So Daniel’s buddies, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, choose to obey God and defy the king. And the cost was high, very high! Being burned alive in a fiery furnace was the punishment for their crime. But ever since they had come to Babylon and chosen to eat God’s way, they had resolved in their hearts that God was their true King. They would live for His Kingdom and not for the culture around them, the land of their exile. They were committed to following God wholeheartedly, to obeying all His commands, no matter the cost.

The cost of your obedience is probably not death by fire. But it may be the death of your professional career because you will not compromise. Or the end of a relationship because you will not lie. How were Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego able to stand? Because they had consistently taken smaller steps of obedience. And because they had one another. It's always harder to stand alone, especially when the cost is high.

Ask Yourself:

-Where am I tempted to compromise my beliefs to avoid standing out?

-When have I experienced the cost of discipleship?

-Am I standing alone? Who are my “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego”?

Pause to pray: Lord, give me the courage to stand for you no matter the cost! I know that You are with me, and You strengthen me. I want my life to bring you glory and honor. I don’t ever want to be ashamed to stand for you! Help me, Jesus. Amen.

Take a Next Step: Invite a trusted Christian to coffee and describe a situation in which you are tempted to compromise but want to stand firm. Ask them to pray with you and for you!