Scripture: Daniel 3; Revelation 14:12
The life of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego remains one of the most enduring and heart-felt stories in the bible. Their abiding faith in the Almighty God continues to inspire and encourage believers. In times of adversities, they remained faithful. Their loving connection to him prepared them for the Babylonian opposition.
The Hebrews were taken out of Jerusalem and held in Babylon captivity. The three Hebrews trusted in the power and presence of God. It was their faith that prepared them to live in a nation of people who worshipped false gods, denying the God who created all things. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were not persuaded to worship the false gods, even though they were appointed to manage affairs of the province of Babylon. They were not ashamed to respectively disagree with the decree that demanded the people to bow down and worship the golden image of king Nebuchadnezzar. Those who refused to bow to the golden image were cast into the burning fiery furnace.
Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego refused to bow to any images. Living in opposition, did not change or waiver their faithfulness and love to the Almighty God. They spoke with deep conviction of their trust in God. “If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace…But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods.”
People of God will face times of opposition, a position that opposes what you do or what you believe. The life of these men encourages us to remain in the faith of God. We must know that God is able to all things but fail, and he will deliver his people.
In the last days, the people of God will be living in opposition. The beast and the false prophet will attack our day of worship and our faith in Jesus Christ. “Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Personal trials are to strengthen our belief in the mercies and grace of God. God is greater than our trials. When placed in the midst of the burning fiery furnace, the king saw a fourth person “like the Son of God”. We can be assured that in our present and future oppositions, we will not be alone. Christ promised never to leave nor forsake us. We will go through trials that maybe very difficult at times. It is Christ that takes us through. Alleluia!
Listen to this entire message on “Living in Opposition” on our Facebook page.
From the Path of Righteousness Church in Christ.
Comments