Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego replied, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you. 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.” – Daniel 3: 16-18

The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is one of the most well known stories of the Bible.

Pretty much everyone knows about how they remained untouched and protected by an angel of God after being thrown in King Nebuchadnezzar’s fiery furnace.

But when we examine the larger context of their story, we can see the depth of God’s love and purpose for His people.

While the book of Ezekiel documents the prophesies leading up to the Israelites’ exile to Babylon, the book of Daniel records what happened during the exile.

And during this time of exile and correction, God revealed Himself in some amazing ways. Because His whole objective was to draw the Israelites back to Him.

And when put to the test, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego stood firm in unwavering devotion to God.

They were willing to die a horrific, gruesome death rather than sin against the Lord.

Through these three young men, God not only showed an incredible amount of mercy to the people who had sinned against Him, but established firmly that He was their God.

And isn’t it a tremendous relief to know that even when we fail miserably in life, God is still in the business of showing total grace and performing jaw-dropping miracles on our behalf?

God’s love is truly unparalleled and indescribable.

No matter what we’ve done, we will see the goodness of the Lord if we stand firm in devotion to Him.

Be blessed,

Alexia

Prayer: God, no matter what happens to me in my life, help me to have the type of single-minded, determined faith that Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego had. Teach me to have a love for you that is so strong that I’m at peace with whatever outcome you orchestrate for me, good or bad. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, Amen.