EXPLORE IT - Daniel 3

In the second week of our “Red-Handed:  love our city” series we take a look at a story in the book of Daniel.  This Old Testament book is known for its accounts of uncompromising faith, apocalyptic literature (prophecies written about the end of time), and its similarities to the New Testament book Revelation.  Daniel wrote his accounts sometime between 536 and 530 B.C. to fellow Jewish exiles in Babylon for encouragement, reminding his fellow countrymen of God’s promises of restoration. 

The nation of Israel had sinned against God many times and despite previous warnings, they did not change their ways.  God utilized Babylon and King Nebuchadnezzar for His judgment against the Jewish people.   Over several years (607-586 B.C.), Babylon invaded and captured the Israelites until finally Jerusalem fell into exile in 586 B.C.  God’s children were now foreigners in a strange land with unfamiliar traditions and different ways of life.  They would remain in exile for 70 years, when they would be allowed to return to Jerusalem to rebuild their city and their temple.

Daniel 3 takes place during this time of exile.  King Nebuchadnezzar builds a statue 90 feet high (about the same height as a 9 story building).  It was probably built out of wood and then plated with gold.  This statue probably represented the god Nabu, which is the beginning of King Nebuchadnezzar’s name.  Everyone was required to “fall down and worship the image” when the music played.  Three Israelites, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, refused.  Because they refused, they were threatened with being, “thrown immediately into a blazing furnace.”  While this may seem strange, burning was a regular form of punishment in the ancient Near East.

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego don’t stray from their convictions.  They know that God can save them and because of their faithfulness, Daniel is able to record another victorious account of God’s faithfulness!  Their actions spoke louder than words and God’s miracle not only saved the lives of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, countless others were introduced to the God of the Israelites that day. 

Our actions also speak louder than words.  When we hold our ground for what God would have us stand for, others take notice.  Fellow believers are encouraged in their faith when they see us standing firm.  Those who haven’t yet made a commitment to Jesus as Lord also observe us living out our faith and may be encouraged to dig a little deeper into our faith.  By standing for what you believe in, your influence and impact on others goes farther than you know.

Blessings,Pastor Amy