It never ceases to amaze me how to the point of death people could hold on to their beliefs. One of the characteristics of human, is to flee when there is danger, run away from what promises to endanger him. So, why then do some people stay, knowing fully well that could be their end? The answer is simple - Faith. "Now, Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen". And that substance is exactly the basis of our Christian living. To normal human beings, it is madness, but to us, it is Faith.
Have you not wondered what exactly made the three Hebrew boys refuse to bow, knowing fully well that they'd be burnt? or what made Esther go to the king knowing fully well that her head could go for it? Or what made Daniel worship God knowing fully well he would land in the den?
The one I find particularly intriguing is the story of the three Hebrew Men; "We will not bow", as I popularly refer to it. Let us review the testimony of their Faith together.
The Courageous Faith of the Three Hebrew Men
In the third chapter of the book of Daniel, we find an inspiring story of faith, courage, and obedience. The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three Hebrew men who refused to bow to the idolatrous demands of King Nebuchadnezzar, is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing firm in our faith, even in the face of adversity.
The King's Decree
King Nebuchadnezzar, ruler of the Babylonian Empire, had erected a massive golden statue in the plain of Dura. The statue was 90 feet tall and 9 feet wide, and the king had decreed that everyone in the empire must bow down and worship the statue whenever music was played. Anyone who refused to comply would be thrown into a fiery furnace.
The Hebrew Men's Refusal
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, three high-ranking officials in the king's court, were among those who refused to bow to the statue. As Hebrews, they were devoted to the one true God and could not bring themselves to worship an idol. Despite the clear danger, they stood firm in their faith, even when faced with the king's wrath.
The King's Fury
When King Nebuchadnezzar learned of the Hebrew men's refusal, he was furious. He summoned them to his court and demanded to know why they had disobeyed his decree. The men explained that they could not worship the statue, as it went against their faith. The king, enraged, ordered the furnace to be heated to its highest temperature, and the men were bound and thrown into the flames.
A Miraculous Deliverance
As the men were thrown into the furnace, a miraculous event occurred. The flames did not harm them, and they were seen walking around in the fire, unscathed. In fact, a fourth figure, described as "like a son of the gods," was seen with them. This figure was likely an angel or a manifestation of God Himself.
The King's Amazement
When King Nebuchadnezzar saw the men walking around in the fire, he was amazed. He ordered them to be pulled out of the furnace, and when they emerged, not a hair on their heads was singed. The king was so impressed with their faith and the miraculous deliverance that he issued a new decree, praising the God of the Hebrews and prohibiting anyone from speaking against Him.
A Lesson in Courage and Faith
The story of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego is a powerful reminder of the importance of standing firm in our faith, even in the face of adversity. Their courage and obedience to God's commands, despite the danger, are an inspiration to us all. As we face our own challenges and trials, may we draw strength from their example and trust in the same God who delivered them from the fiery furnace.
There are several other instances, and we can't fail to realize that where there's Faith, there is boldness. It gives us courage to stand for things to come, knowing fully well the glory that is before us. "Those who know their God shall be strong and do exploit". That knowing implies Faith. Those who have Faith in their God and His abilities, shall be strong (bold, courageous) and do exploits.
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