When all the officials and people were commanded to bow down and worship a statue when they herd the music playing, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused at a great cost to their own lives.
Daniel 3:16-18
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to him, “King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 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. 18 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.”
Nebuchadnezzar demanded public worship of his absolute authority in the kingdom. These three men would only worship the Lord.
Exodus 20:22-23
Then the Lord said to Moses, “Tell the Israelites this: ‘You have seen for yourselves that I have spoken to you from heaven: 23 Do not make any gods to be alongside me; do not make for yourselves gods of silver or gold.
We stand against political authority and tyranny, when it directly goes against the truth of God’s word.
Even when the cost was high, these young men honored God, even though they lived far from their actual home.
Whose reputation is more important, yours or the Lords? What are you willing to risk for God?
Hebrews 13:15-16
Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise—the fruit of lips that openly profess his name. 16 And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.
Do our friends and co-workers know about our faith? Is the Holy Spirit encouraging you to share the truth in love with a specific person? Who? How can you prepare for that time?
What is the Holy Spirit saying to you through these scriptures?