Stuck Between a Rock and a Hard Place Week 3: Saturday

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, "Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego! He sent his angel to rescue his servants who trusted in him. They defied the king's command and were willing to die rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. Daniel 3:28

Our faith grows when we step out in faith and obey, even when it feels risky. Our confidence in Christ increases. Our relationship with God is deepened as He walks with us as we take these risky steps. Another remarkable thing happens when we take risky steps of faith: others take notice. They see our boldness and courage in God, and they see God take care of us every step of the way. As they observe our steps of faith, others cannot help but marvel at God's power as He works in our lives. 

King Nebuchadnezzar was amazed when God protected Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego after throwing them into a fiery furnace for not worshiping a statue he had built. He noticed that there was a fourth person in the fire with them. He got as close to the furnace as possible and said, "Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out!" (Daniel 3:26). Nebuchadnezzar could not ignore that God had protected and been with these men in the furnace. He could not ignore God's power and strength, so he called Him the "Most High" God. When the men came out, not a bit of their bodies were burned, and they did not even smell like fire. After witnessing such a miracle, King Nebuchadnezzar praised God. He said, “Praise to the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego!” (verse 28). Next, he made a law that anyone who defamed the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego would be punished severely. He could not help but acknowledge and praise God. Because of the faith of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, God's name was respected and honored throughout Babylon. 

We, too, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, serve God Most High. He alone has the power to save. When we live and stand for Him, His name is made famous.

Moving toward action

Who is someone you know who you can invite to join you for church this weekend? Invite them. Then, invite them for a meal after the service. As you share a meal together, tell them how God has worked in your life as you took steps of faith. Allow them to ask questions and share with them that God wants to work and move in their lives.

Going Deeper

Daniel 3:28-30