TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
As soon as you hear the sound of the horn, flute, zither, lyre, harp, pipe and all kinds of music, you must fall down and worship the image of gold that King Nebuchadnezzar has set up. Daniel 3:5
TODAY’S MESSAGE
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego have to make a tough decision. They have lost everything and live in exile because their nation, Israel, had bowed down to idols for four generations. The God of Israel clearly commanded, “You shall have no other gods before me … [and] you shall not make for yourself an image [to worship] (Exodus 20:4-5a). Upon threat of death, King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon orders all the officials of the lands he has conquered to bow and worship a giant golden statue. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego choose not to bow, setting into motion both horrible and wonderful events.
Daniel recorded their story to be read aloud and remembered as an affirmation of God’s majesty and power. Nebuchadnezzar wants to create a spectacle to unify his people and demonstrate his power. But God uses that spectacle to show God is supreme in power and the only one to be worshiped.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego illustrate faithfulness when it’s difficult and it may cost us something. Their story is important because we face similar faith challenges. It’s easy to give in to the gods of our culture such as money, popularity, leisure, success, reputation and even our children. This week, we look at the allegiance of these men to God and how important their example is to anchor our faith in God alone.
IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY
Think about how your life, words and actions demonstrate your priorities. Where are you in danger of making something an idol? Ask God to show you any changes you need to make to keep that thing in its proper place.
2022 BIBLE MEMORY PRACTICE
Develop spiritual roots and tap in the power of God’s word by memorizing monthly a Bible verse! View previous verses at beyondtheweekend.org/biblememorypractice.
MICAH 6:8
He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
