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By Faith or By Fear

Today, we’re going to the book of Daniel to learn about three, brave young men. Daniel tells us that Nebuchadnezzar, the king of Babylon, came to Jerusalem and surrounded it. Jehoiakim, the current king of Judah, was delivered into Nebuchadnezzar’s hands, and the Temple possessions were captured. In addition to the people who were taken into captivity, this ruthless king wanted the most handsome and intelligent young men for his service. Among those chosen were Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. 

Daniel interpreted a dream that Nebuchadnezzar had about a gold statue. He was amazed at Daniel’s ability, and even fell down and worshiped Daniel’s God. Then, he appointed Daniel as the ruler over the province of Babylon and at Daniel’s urging, placed Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego in leadership positions as well. 

Nebuchadnezzar’s newfound adoration for God didn’t last long as Daniel 3 shows him having a 100-foot gold statue built. The king had specific instructions for everyone when they heard music. They were to fall down and worship the image of gold. If people refused, they’d be thrown into a blazing furnace (Daniel 3:5-6). 

Some astrologers told the king that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego chose not to obey his order, and it infuriated him. When he questioned them, they told him they didn’t have to answer to him. If that wasn’t enough to send Nebuchadnezzar over the emotional ledge, here’s what they said next:

If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. Daniel 3:17-18 NIV

They knew saying this would land them in a furnace so hot that it would kill them instantly. But, not a single article of clothing or hair on their heads was burned. God protected them, and Nebuchadnezzar was astounded by their God. 

The faith of these three young men is mind-boggling, isn’t it? They were Jews who worshiped God in the middle of captivity and knew what the punishment would be for their disobedience. Yet, they didn’t alter their allegiance, compromise their convictions, or let fear overtake them. They knew their God could and would save them, but decided ahead of time that even if He didn’t, they would never bow down to counterfeit statues of gold. They could have allowed fear to consume them, but instead chose their faith. 

Most of us will probably never face this kind of persecution for our faith. However, we still allow fear to overwhelm us at times. So, how do we know if we’re living in fear or walking in faith? If we “what if” ourselves to death, we’re being consumed with fear. But, if we add “even if” to our vocabulary, we’re walking in faith. Whatever you’re facing, know that our God is bigger than any circumstance in your life.