Faith Through FireSample

Resolved

King Nebuchadnezzar was filled with rage!

You don’t defy the king! So, King Nebuchadnezzar would give them an opportunity once more to obey. You would think he was merciful, but he wasn’t. Monarchs want all their government representatives and officials to fall in line, and this was his way to have the Hebrew men to fall in the eyes of others. You have to imagine the appearance of this monstrous idol in the middle of this fearsome empire. These Hebrew men were princes of their nobility reduced to slaves, now forced to manage parts of the Babylonian empire. Freedom of choice — gone. So, the pressure is on when you are in the company of thousands bowing, and you decide between yourself and your friends that you won’t. And here, a second initiation by the king so you’re clear that you’re not confused by his command. The order is, “Bow.”

The Hebrew young men stated that they were not confused. They understood every word. In fact they clarified what they heard and what they will not do. “We will not bow. In fact, He will rescue us. But if not, no worries. We will never worship your gods or idols, ever.”

Friends, when you’re pushed to the very edge of the ledge and are about to fall, the real you is revealed from within. And when that day comes, let’s hope that we are counted faithful like these Hebrew men.